The key to being a rock star is displaying a killer combo of enthusiasm and self-confidence. In other words, be a toddler. (They’re the only ones that can get away with scream-singing “Itsy Bitsy Spider” while shaking a diapered butt.) Channel all that energy into these music classes for kids in Chicago that focus on learning and fun.
The underlying premise of Kindermusik is that music is the best method for early childhood development. Bucktown Music offers a progressive Kindermusik class for toddlers, which teaches vocal development, tone and rhythm patterns to instill a musical ear. Parents learn songs, poems and games to incorporate into everyday life, while a class album, e-book and interactive guide reinforce lessons.
Marsha’s Music teaches Music Together toddler classes in which parents participate alongside their kids, who learn by imitation. Each mixed-age class features songs, rhymes, movement and instrument play, and there’s plenty of room to improvise. A CD and illustrated songbook are take-homes for parents who want to bring the party back to their place.
Saint Paul & the Redeemer, 4945 S. Dorchester Ave., Hyde Park; Online: marshasmusic.com
In the early childhood classes at this music springboard located in the Joy Faith Knapp Music Center, gets tots their first taste of rhythms and beats. The Movers and Shakers program for ages 18 mos.-3 yrs. encourages peer interaction as kids sing and play simple percussion instruments.
Pros introduce kids to music fundamentals, like tapping out a beat and singing in tune. The philosophy behind the Music Together program is that the strongest way to learn is for parents to model music behaviors. Mixed-age classes (ages 0-5) include standard folk songs like “Skip to My Lou,” but also Bollywood, Klezmer and American Indian melodies to introduce children to different keys and musical meters.
Not only will you find live music classes for kids ages 4 & under, but Mr. Dave also partners with Buddha Belly Kids Yoga to teach Movement & Mindfulness to tots starting at 18 months. Open-Ended Art classes allow students to uniquely express how a particular piece of music makes them feel, and Baby Raves get the whole family on the dance floor.
Music Together classes fill up quickly at Music House. Their 45-minutes classes aim to increase family bonding while developing everyone’s love of music. Children learn how to make music while improving literacy, self-expression and motor skills.
2925 W. Devon, West Rogers Park & 1018 N. California Ave., Humboldt Park; Online: musichouseinc.com
Musikgarten classes build fundamental music skills by revisiting songs, stories and dances from session to session. The Family Music for Toddlers program includes singing, dancing, playing instruments and lots of movement so kids can learn to feel a beat. Working with the parent is an instrumental part of the program, so grownups are given a CD and guide to continue the learning at home.
Various locations throughout the city & suburbs; Online: musicinst.org
Instill in your kids a deep love and understanding of music through highly engaging, play-based classes. From infant sensory classes to music discovery and mixed-age adventures in singing and piano, 45-minute lessons are made memorable through repetition, gamification and just plain fun
The Old Town School of Folk Music brings its laid-back, hippie approach to its kid program, Wiggleworms. Teachers lead the class on guitar, banjo or ukulele while singing folk, rock and pop (think “Yellow Submarine”.) Kids sing, bang out rhythms, play with parachutes and bubbles and learn to socialize with each other.
Classes are currently held at the main Lincoln Park and Lincoln Square locations, as well as one at a satellite location in Evanston.
4544 N. Lincoln Ave., Lincoln Square & 909 W. Armitage Ave., Lincoln Park; Online: oldtownschool.org
Looking to further encourage that new music appreciation? Check out these live music venues that are sure to bring out the inner groupie in you and your kids.
The Rock and Roll Playhouse is the largest kid-friendly concert series in the country and, lucky for us, Chicago is among their many stops. The Rock and Roll Playhouse brings together local musicians to play songs from the most iconic musicians, like The Beatles, The Grateful Dead, Phish, Bob Marley and Prince in order to provide a shared musical experience between parents and kids (ages 1-7, mostly.) In Chicago, you often find shows at Gallagher Way and Thalia Hall.
There is no better way to have a relaxing weekend brunch than when your kids are in the next room dancing their bottoms off. Beat Kitchen has long hosted Concerts for Kids on Sundays at 11 a.m. Catch acts like Mary Macaroni, Super Stolie or The Boogers. Tickets are only a few bucks, and you are free to bring your mimosas and Bloody Mary’s into the stage room and cut a rug yourself. While the Concerts for Kids is on hiatus, due to the pandemic, it has been temporarily replaced by Bluegrass Brunch for all ages on Saturdays at 11 a.m. Tickets are free.
2100 W. Belmont Ave., Roscoe Village; Online: beatkitchen.com
Chicago Symphony Orchestra
Listen to the classics in a captivating way with programs such as Once Upon a Symphony which incorporates storytelling, magical set designs and costumes alongside live music, with the help of the Chicago Children’s Theatre. As children grow, Family Matinees are geared towards kids ages 5 & up.
Catch many of the city’s best children’s concerts at Gallagher Way during their free Wiggleworms sessions in the summer, or enjoy various genres during their French Market and many other events throughout the year. With ample space for the kids to run around or play in the fountains, it’s easy to kick back and enjoy a cocktail while you listen, dance or sing along.
The Old Town School of Folk Music is working on bringing back their Kids Concerts, where local favorites such as Little Miss Ann, Laura Doherty perform regularly, and even Justin Roberts has appeared annually.
The well-known summer festival also includes Kids Concerts. Prior performances have included the world-famous Laurie Berkner. Get there before the show to enjoy the KidsLawn, which includes an Interactive Musical Playground. The 2022 lineup will be announced on Mar. 24, with tickets going on sale on May 4.
201 Ravinia Park Rd., Highland Park; Online: ravinia.org
Some of the best places to enjoy live music with the whole family are the many, many street festivals in Chicago during the summer. Most street festivals have a family stage during the day with lots of local kid bands on the schedule, and if you can keep the kids out a little late, you can all rock out to the headliners at night.
If an easy-to-plan Seattle staycation is all you’ve ever wanted, there’s no better time than spring break to give it a try. Especially since the region has some of the best attractions in the world, right in your backyard. Sleep in a perfectly made bed and let someone else do the cooking, while avoiding those long lines at the airport, when you book your family’s vacation at one of these seven Seattle-area escapes.
Lakedale Resort at Three Lakes
courtesy Lakedale Resort
Stay: Just a ferry ride or float plane away! Lakedale Resort at Three Lakes touts a "one of a kind experience and a breath of fresh air," but that only begins to describe the tranquil magic families create on this 82-acre property on San Juan Island. For starters, choosing an accommodation is part of the joy. An elegant lakefront hotel, log cabins, yurts, canvas cabins for glamping and a lake house family vacation rental are all on the menu. Decide what fits your family's personality and dive in.
The lakefront hotel is wonderful for groups with young adults sixteen and older, no pets please. The stunning great room and fireplace were made for board game competitions and fine wine sipping. Davy Crockett fans will love the log cabins, which hold up to six guests and two pooches. Families will settle in to these cabins for serious bonding. For closer but even hipper living quarters, order up a deluxe yurt. They feature King-size beds with flannel sheets, flat screen TVs, private hot tubs and wet bar. The Littles will enjoy cuddling up to doze on the full size sleeper, with flannel duvet and linens. This is glamping staycation-style.
Walk To: It will be hard to leave your cozy home away from home, but Lakedale Resort at Three Lakes is all about the outdoors. Pursue games of chess on a giant chess set, or try ping pong, bocce ball or horseshoes. Three fresh spring water lakes offer gentle swimming areas and rentals a-plenty (paddle boats, row boats, kayaks, stand-up paddle boards and canoes). You can also take your kids fishing. The lakes are plentifully stocked with wide-mouth bass and trout (psst...permit required).
Good Eats: The lodge & hotel offer complimentary breakfast that tempts taste buds with options like Lakedale signature granola, homemade jam and egg dishes. For all other accommodations, bring in food for cooking or barbecue fun. The General Store on site is open on weekends starting in May, and seven days a week from June 1 to Labor Day. Hot espresso drinks, sandwiches, salads, wine, beer, groceries, ice cream, and camping and fishing gear (including bait), ice, wood and more are available for purchase.
A short drive away, The Company Store in Roche Harbor is open for sundry and grocery needs. Madrona Bar & Grill serves fish and chips, rockfish tacos plus more yummy snacks guaranteed to please tiny tots. And Friday Harbor Ice Cream Company is a wonderful treat on a warm evening.
Don't Miss: San Juan Island Zip Tour is adrenaline-fueled family bonding for ages 8 and up. Newbies welcome. The experience takes three hours but is only one mile from the resort.
If you and the kiddos desire a quieter setting, The Maxwell Hotel is a great option. While the hotel is nestled in a quieter Lower Queen Anne neighborhood, it’s just a skip and a hop to the Seattle Center. A quick monorail ride will take you to the sights and sounds of downtown. And with the hotel’s complimentary shuttle service and loaner beach cruisers, you’ll have plenty of transportation options. But make it back in time for the Afternoon Delights of coffee and the hotel's signature pineapple cupcakes!
Stay: Kings, duet queens and suites are available. All rooms feature complimentary wifi, a microwave with popcorn welcome packet, and a mini-fridge for storing cold items. The indoor pool is a bright, sunlit space and super kid-friendly: it only goes to 4’ deep.
Good Eats: The Pineapple Bistro & Bar, in the lobby, offers espresso and locally baked goods from 6:30-11:30 a.m. and is open from 11:30 a.m.-10 p.m. ('til 11 p.m. Thurs.-Sat.) for beer, wine and craft cocktails as well as locally sourced starters, brick oven pizzas, sandwiches and a daily happy hour from 4-6 p.m. The best part? Guests are welcome to enjoy their Pineapple Bar purchases anywhere in The Maxwell Hotel lobby, so you can make happy hour a family affair.
Don’t Miss: The Dashing Through the Snow Promo has been extended through the end of April! Take 15% off your stay by booking online with the code WINTER19, or just mention it on the phone at 866-866-7977.
300 Roy St. Seattle, WA 98109 206-286-0629 Online: staypineapple.com
Four Seasons Hotel Seattle
"Urban Retreat" conjures chic images not always associated with spring break. Think again! Imagine the wow your kids will have jumping into an outdoor heated infinity pool, with views of the Sound. Find it at Four Seasons Seattle—the only pool of its kind in the area. Almost every room has a spectacular view of the water as well. Afternoon treats are served in the lobby every day after 3 p.m., from house made s’mores and ice cream cupcakes, to caramel apples and macarons.
Adults will enjoy the most extensive collection of Pacific Northwest artwork outside a museum or gallery. Kids will revel in the vacation welcome gift. Let the staff know your munchkins' ages so they can enjoy fun treats like cookies and milk for tiny tots, or root beer and popcorn for tweens. Kid-sized robes and slippers are available, as are cribs, baby toiletries, and diaper genies for packing ease. Add in other convenient touches, like step stools in the bathroom so kids can reach the sink, and bath toys for the deep soaking tubs and you've got the perfect home-away-from-home getaway.
Good Eats: Find fabulous fare at in-house Goldfinch. The kids' menu is as much fun as the LEGO stacking utensils and coloring sheets that accompany it.
Walk to: Enjoy Four Seasons Hotel Seattle's excellent location near Pike Place Market, Seattle Art Museum, Seattle waterfront, the Great Wheel, shopping, theater, music and more. Book the Space Needle VIP Experience for that truly OMG moment. Your family will tour the iconic monument an hour before it opens to the public with a private photographer capturing every WOW. Breakfast bites and coffee included.
Don't miss: Make room for everyone with 30% off a second guest room when booking two nights at Four Seasons Hotel Seattle, 25% off 60 day advance purchase or third night free when booking two nights. Restrictions apply.
99 Union St. Seattle, WA 98101 206-749-7000 Online: fourseasons.com
Fairmont Olympic Hotel
photo: courtesy Fairmont Olympic
The historic Fairmont Olympic Hotel is so fancy it will make the littles feel like they're Eloise living at the Plaza. It wouldn't be spring break without pool time, and the gigantic indoor pool delivers, with plenty of floaties and pool toys. Note: The renovation currently underway won't affect your fun, per the hotel concierge.
Stay: Check out the locals-only Resident's Rate for a whopping 20% off your stay with ID.
Good Eats: The Fairmont’s Shuckers Oyster Bar restaurant offers a tasty Kid's Menu. Even better, kids five and under eat for free! Nearby Sweet Iron Waffle Bar has waffles to please any kid, young and old, while Potbelly Sandwich Shop offers warm, grilled namesakes.
Walk To: The Seattle Public Library has a gigantic children’s section and fun events every week. The Seattle Waterfront, Seattle Great Wheel, Olympic Sculpture Park, Seattle Aquarium, Seattle Art Museum, Pike Place Market and Pioneer Square, are all a short hop, skip, Link, Lyft, or walk away.
Don’t Miss: When making your reservation, ask for special kids' bath amenities. They will have tiny bath robes, special products and fun kids' stuff waiting in the rooms.
411 University St. Seattle, WA 98101 206-621-1700 Online: fairmont.com
Kimpton Hotel Monaco Seattle
courtesy Kimpton Hotel Monaco
The Kimpton Hotel Monaco Seattle might seem too glam for the fam but it's not: It's fun for the fam! Upon checking in, curious kiddos receive an adventure map to go exploring. The lobby library loans out kid-friendly bedtime stories. Upon request, Land of Nod teepees and play tents will be delivered to the room, and custom lunch pails with activities, snacks, and gum are also available. These fun extras are also freebies! The venue lies just steps away from major sights and sporting events, so grab your two legged and four legged creatures and set off an urban adventure.
Stay: Kings, queens and suites are available. All rooms come complete with wifi, pillow top beds, and flat screen TVs. Check online for hotel promotions—they offer a Northwest resident rate.
Good Eats: The hotel’s restaurant Outlier offers seasonally-driven global fare such as Seafood Laksa and Duck Bolognese, as well as brick oven pizzas for sharing. The restaurant has a back patio space, perfect for dining out during warm spring days. The Kid's Menu includes choices so tasty you’re going to wish you were under 12.
Don’t Miss: If you're looking to see the city on two wheels, complimentary hotel bicycles are available to use during your stay. Hotel Monaco hosts an evening wine hour from 5 p.m. to 6 p.m. every day, showcasing local vineyards sp parents can sip and unwind, while sodas, snacks, and treats keep the minis at bay.
1101 Fourth Ave. Seattle, WA 98101 206-621-1770 Online: monaco-seattle.com
Embassy Suites by Hilton
Nestled in the Pioneer Square neighborhood, the Embassy Suites by Hilton Seattle sits right next door to the King Street Station and just steps away from CenturyLink Field. Families traveling into the city via Link light rail, car, or ferry will find the hotel’s convenient location a major perk along with its proximity to some of the city’s top tourist attractions. Access the Seattle Great Wheel, Seattle Aquarium, Pike Place Market and Seattle Art Museum, along with a plethora of restaurants, eateries, and specialty shops all within one mile of the hotel.
Stay: The Embassy Suites by Hilton Seattle is composed of two glass towers, boasting ahh-mazing views of downtown Seattle and Elliott Bay. The spacious two room suites--perfect for a family of four--each feature a separate living area, private bedroom, and a mini kitchen. Each room features an Amazon Echo so your kids can ask for additional towels, room service, or the soundtrack to Frozen 2. If you’re hoping to take in the city’s gorgeous views from your room, be sure to upgrade to a premium suite or go big and book an exclusive Embassador suite on the top floor.
Good Eats: Each morning, families can enjoy a free made-to-order breakfast in the hotel's second floor dining hall. In the evenings, families can take advantage of complimentary drinks and snacks at the hotel’s evening reception inside Zephyr Bar. Bring the whole crew into Zephyr between 5:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. (it’s 100% kid-friendly) and let them nosh on tasty snacks and drinks while you enjoy an assortment of Northwest-inspired wine, beer, and craft cocktails. For another easy, tasty option walk down the block to Cone & Steiner for yummy sandwiches, local brews, and any sundries you need. For late owls or early risers, Seattle institution 13 Coins is located in the hotel's lobby. 24 hour breakfast, lunch or dinner is just an elevator ride away.
Walk To: It's Sounders season and the hotel could only be closer if it was on the pitch. So why not take in a game? Go Sounders! Or march the kiddies to the Seattle waterfront with stops at the Seattle Great Wheel, Pirate’s Plunder, Old Curiosity Shop, Wings Over Washington, Seattle Aquarium and Olympic Sculpture Park. Then, venture to Magic Mouse Toys in Pioneer Square, Pike Place Market, and Seattle Public Library. Make your way over to the Seattle Center to explore the International Fountain, Artists at Play playground, Seattle Children's Theater, Pacific Science Center and MoPOP. Want to see a bit more of the city from the water? Argosy Cruises on Pier 69 offers daily cruises along Elliott Bay and excursions to Tillicum Village.
Don’t Miss: If the weather cooperates, the outdoor rooftop deck with killer views of the Seattle skyline and Elliott Bay will not disappoint.
Embassy Suites by Hilton Pioneer Square 255 S. King. St. Seattle, WA 98104 Reservations: 206-859-4400 Online: embassysuites.com
Hyatt Regency Lake Washington
Courtesy of Shubha Tirumale Photography
Stay: If the Hyatt Regency Lake Washington didn't exist, staycation would invent it. Upon entering the welcoming lobby, the lake view and Seattle skyline seem to say "Leave it all behind." Grab a chair on the outdoor patio and start relaxing while the kids splash and play. Be sure to pre-order the Kids Glamping Package for $40. Well worth the delight in their eyes when the room is opened and a teepee replete with cozy pillows, soft blankets and S'mores plates greet them. Book a suite to give the group a play room, and pack swim suits and a favorite floatie for the indoor pool and hot tub.
Good Eats: Water's Table, the on site restaurant, masters the art of fine dining alongside family feasting. The kids cookie decorating option is a creative way to entertain fidgety diners--it's complimentary so pre-order with ease. There is also a 24 hour-market available for last minute snacks, souvenirs and goodies.
Walk To: Bordering the hotel is a wonderful playground within the 57-acre Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park.
Don't Miss: Nearby Skykart Indoor Racing Center, Henry Moses Aquatic Center and the Museum of Flight make stimulating field trips and Woodinville wine country is lovely for more adult group entertainment.
1053 Lake Washington Blvd. N. Renton, WA 98056 425-203-1234 Online: hyatt.com
There’s nothing quite like snuggling up in a cozy reading nook and getting lost in a good book. With so many titles out there, how do you know what will be a hit and what will be a bust? To help you out, we’ve created the ultimate list of 100+ classic kids’ books they’ve got to read before they turn 12. How many new titles can you add to your regular reading list?
1. Wonder by R. J. Palacio Fifth-grader Auggie Pullman is about to enter Beecher Prep for the first time. But unlike most of the kids there, he’s never been to school with his peers because of a birth defect that kept him from attending a mainstream school. What challenges will Auggie face? Your whole family will marvel at this debut novel by author, R. J. Palacio. Ages 8-12. Buy it here.
2. We Are Water Protectorsby Carole Lindstrom and Michaela Goade Inspired by Native-led movements to protect the environment, this beautiful book won the Caldecott Medal in 2021. Written by an Indigenous-author-illustrator team is an urgent cry to protect the Earth's water from pollution and harm. Ages 3-6. Buy it here.
3. The Crossover by Kwame Alexander Written in fast-moving verse that mirrors the pace of bouncing balls on the basketball court, this novel follows the life of two brothers, Josh and Jordan Bell as they navigate life both on and off the court. Ages 10-12. Buy it here.
4. Lola Plants a Garden by Anna McQuinn Proving books can be a point of inspiration, young bookworm Lola decides to grow a garden of her own after reading a garden-themed poem. With her Mommy in tow, they head to the library to research before choosing seeds and flowers and then get down to planting. What a great book for growing imagination! Ages 2-5. Buy it here.
5.The Giving Tree by Shel Silverstein "Once there was a tree ... and she loved a little boy." It only takes one read for this story of unconditional love to stick with your munchkins forever. Read it before bedtime or have them tackle it on their own. Ages 5-7. Buy it here.
6. Pat the Bunny by Dorothy Kunhardt Written by mom Dorothy Kunhardt, this classic lets hands-on tots get interactive with fur, sandpaper, mirrors, and more. There's even an app version for the iPad and iPhone that comes with background music and sound effects. Ages 18 months & up. Buy it here.
7. The Day the Crayons Quitby Drew Daywalk This clever picture book, released in 2015, will leave your kids in stitches as they read compliments and legit complaints written as an epistolary to young Duncan from his crayons. It seems they’ve unionized and won’t go back on duty until Duncan listens to their concerns, which he does in the most colorful and creative of ways! Ages 3-7. Buy it here.
11. Harold and the Purple Crayon by Crockett Johnson Harold and his big imagination take a purple crayon out for a walk under the moon one night. As he draws his own adventures, he comes across a pie-only picnic, a monster guarding an apple tree and a friendly policeman who finally points him in the right direction—back home to the comfort of his own bed. It’s a classic for a reason. Get the scoop on more classics to read with your sidekick here. Ages 4-7. Get yours here.
12. Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site by Sherri Duskey Rinker and Tom Lichtenheld Fans of Toy Story and Cars are not going to get enough of this one. Complete with catchy rhymes for smooth read-aloud flow, old-fashioned illustrations and machines with personality, Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site will be sure to cement going to bed as something to look forward to. Ages 1-3 (& up). Buy it here.
13. The Story of Ruby Bridges by Robert Coles This is a beautifully illustrated and well-told true story of the six-year-old Ruby Bridges who, in 1960, was the first African-American to attend an all-white school. Children will relate to the emotions and courage throughout the story. It’s an excellent example of connecting kids to history in a way they won’t forget. Ages 5-9. Buy it now.
14. Pinkalicious by Victoria Kann It's a modern fairytale that could have inspired Katy Perry's entire career. After reading about a girl who turns blushing-red from eating too many pink cupcakes, your princesses and princes will be happy to eat their greens. Filled with bright colors, humor and a surprise at the very end, Pinkalicious is a great energetic read for pink fiends. Ages 5-7. Shop it here.
15. Chameleon's Colors by Chisato Tashiro Chameleon wants to stop changing colors, but Lion, Hippo, Elephant and all the other animals of the jungle would love to change their stripes. But the chaos that ensues with these colorful coats, soon makes Chameleon very grateful with his own skin. Your tiny animals will love the bright colors and patterns, but may not like how the entire jungle chases Chameleon at the end. Ages 4-8. Get it now.
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16. The Bee Bookby DK, Emma Tennant & Fergus Chadwick Get ready to learn all about one of the hardest-working creatures out there: the honeybee. Kids will learn how bees talk to one another, the life of a queen bee, and what a worker bee actually does. Discover how much bees matter, why they're declining, and what everyone can do to help the bee population. Ages 5-8. Get a copy here.
17. Brown Girl Dreaming by Jacqueline Woodson Jacqueline Woodson’s novel, written in verse, chronicles her life growing up in the Civil Rights era. Caught between two worlds, one black and one white, one New York and one South Carolina, each of the book’s poems weaves in another strand of her life’s history, as she tries to both find and define her place in the world. Ages 10 & up. Buy today.
18. Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Dayby Judith Viorst Looks like Alexander’s got a case of the “Mondays.” He’s got gum stuck in his hair; he gets the hump seat on the ride to school; He’s served lima beans at lunch. What else could go wrong? Find out when you read this classic kids book. Ages 6-9. Buy it now.
19.Llama, Llama, Red Pajama by Anna Dewdney Infectious rhymes make this book an ideal and memorial bedtime tale for your sleepers. On top of the amazing artwork and detailed facial expression of the baby llama, Llama, Llama, Red Pajama also teaches kids patience and reassurance that mom is not far away. Ages 2-5. Buy it here.
20.Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Tale by Mo Willems With Dad in charge, a trip to the laundromat is blissful fun until Trixie leaves her Knuffle Bunny behind. New Yorkers will especially love the black and white photos of Brooklyn, which are paired with colorful illustrations. Get your mini-me's favorite toy ready, they'll be asking for it after the last page. Ages 2-5. Get your copy here.
Pixaby
21. Harriet the Spy by Louise Fitzhugh There's no sugarcoating friendships and mean girls when it comes to Harriet the Spy. When Harriet's friends find her notebook with all the truthful but awful things about them, Harriet has to find a way to mend her friendships. It's a lengthy, but great, beginner's read into the world of novels. Age 9 & up.Buy it here.
22. The Princess in Black series by Shannon & Dean Hale Princess Magnolia may live the frilly life of a typical pink-ified princess, but her alter ego, the Princess in Black, lives the life many little girls dream of—fighting monsters to save sheep in this beginning reader chapter book series. But don’t worry, she does typical princess things too, like throw a rocking party and vacation at the beach. It’s all in a day’s work for this power girl! Ages 5-8. Buy it here.
23. On the Night You Were Bornby Nancy Tillman It turns out you weren’t the only one celebrating on the night your sweet baby was born. In this magically illustrated tale, kids discover all the other creatures and elements from the natural world who lauded their arrival. From the polar bears who danced until dawn to the smiling night moon and the whispering wind and rain, everyone in this book is excited to meet this newly-minted one-and-only you. Ages 1-4. Get your copy here.
24. The Junie B. Jones series by Barbara Park If you’ve got a kid with sass (or were a kid with sass!) this is the series for you. Start with Junie B.’s adventures in kindergarten and read along as she progresses through school dealing with all the typical issues, like a stupid, smelly school bus, friend jealousy, tooth loss and more. Ages 6-9. Buy yours here.
25.Goodnight Moon by Margaret Wise Brown and Clement Hurd For cuddlers who are embarking on their first night alone, Goodnight Moon is a perfect fit. Everything (mostly) rhymes in this story as Bunny says goodnight to everything around him. Ages 2-6. Get it here.
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26. The Harry Potter seriesby J.K. Rowling Got a pre-teen who hates reading? Hand them Harry Potter. Praised for inspiring kids to read, the Harry Potter series is an entirely new world to explore. And thanks to Rowling's penchant for being extremely detailed, things from the book have become real-life—Bertie Bott's Every Flavour Beans, anyone? Of course, read the books before watching the movies. Ages 11 & up. Get your set here.
27. Sweet People Are Everywhereby Alice Walker This gorgeously sweet poem by the beloved writer Alice Walker is a testimonial to the goodness throughout the world, accompanied by illustrations QuimTorres. Ages 5-8. Buy it now.
28. Tales of a 4th Grade Nothing by Judy Blume By popular children's author Judy Blume (Are You There God, It's Me Margaret), Tales of a 4th Grade Nothing is an entertaining read about Peter, a nine-year-old boy, who learns how to get along with his lil' brother Fudge. Ages 9 & up. Get in now.
29. Charlie and the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl Candy lovers who will get a sugar high from all the delectable descriptions in Roald Dahl's arguably most famous work. When Charlie Bucket gets the most coveted golden ticket to Willy Wonka's chocolate factory, a tasty adventure that'll stretch kids' creativity like everlasting gum. Ages 8-12. Buy it here.
30. Mama, Do You Love Me?by Barbara M. Joosse A gorgeously illustrated picture book that answers the question every kid wonders about—mama, will you still love me if I … With thoughtful reassurances this Inuit mother lets her daughter know that yes, even when she puts lemmings in her mukluks or pours water onto the fire, she will love her always and forever, dear one. Ages 2 & up. Get it here.
31. The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle Who knew a hole puncher was an inspiration to one of the most famous children's books in the world? Kids will delight in reading (and counting) all the treats that the caterpillar combs through while learning about metamorphosis. Plus, there's almost nothing as much fun as poking your finger through the holes of each food. Ages 2-6. Get it here.
32. Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls by Elena Favilli and Francesa Cavallo Don’t let the title fool you: this recent collection is appropriate for boys and girls, anytime, day or night. Beautifully illustrated, the book contains the life snapshots of 100 heroic women, told in a voice that kids can relate to. Ages 4-101. Buy it now.
33. The Paper Bag Princess by Robert Munsch Princess Elizabeth has a very nice life until a dragon burns it all (including her clothes) to the ground and takes off with her prince. Follow along as the spunky and brave protagonist dons a paper bag and rescues the prince (who turns out to be a dud) instead of waiting to be rescued herself. This classic children's book has a strong feminist message and is a lot of fun. Ages 4-7. Get your copy here.
34. Elephant & Piggie series by Mo Willems Pink and grey may become your sidekick's favorite colors after getting through this early reader series. The comic book style sets it apart from most children's books, with Piggie's speech in pink and Gerald's (the elephant) in grey. Ages 3-5. Get it here.
35. Caps for Sale: A Tale of a Peddler, Some Monkeys and Their Monkey Businessby Esphyr Slobodkina This humorous story of a peddler chasing after mischievous monkeys for his hats will have your teeny rascal holding their stomach in stitches. A twist on the saying, "Monkey see, monkey do," Caps for Sale is a timeless read-aloud with repetitive sentences that invite listeners to join in. Ages 4-8. Buy it now.
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36. Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See? by Bill Martin Jr and Eric Carle Does your toddler have the makings of an Eye-Spy pro? Designed to help tykes associate colors and meaning to objects, Carle's memorable illustrations along with Bill Martin Jr.'s sing-song text will really get their search gears kicking. Ages 2-5. Get your copy here.
37. Juneteenth for Mazie by Floyd Cooper As Mazie listens to the tale of her great-great-great Grandpa Mose, she learns about the history of African American freedom that started in the cotton fields when Texas slaves finally learned they were free—two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was signed. It moves through other Civil Rights milestones before Mazie heads off to celebrate freedom with her own family. Interested in reading more about the history of African Americans in America? Put some of these on your reading list. Ages 6-9. Get it today.
38. Diary of A Wimpy Kids series by Jeff Kinney Originally a web series that was brought to life by popular demand, Diary of a Wimpy Kid is a fictional middle schooler's musings of his daily adventures. Just like a kid's diary, the series' books are filled with hand-written notes and simple drawings to go along with the text. Ages 8-12. Get it now.
39. Holes by Louis Sachar Wrong place, wrong time, but nevertheless extremely lucky—Stanley Yelnats IV's time in Camp Green Lake will have you0 campers swallowing the book whole. Ages 8-12. Buy it now.
40. The Quiet Book by Deborah Underwood This is a lovely ode to the quiet things in life: “coloring in the lines quiet,” “right before you yell, ‘SURPRISE!’ quiet,” “bedtime kiss quiet.” The tone and gentle illustrations (featuring porcupines and teddy bears and other humorous animals) make it just right for settling down before sleep. Ages 3-8. Buy it here.
41.The Sisters Grimm Series by Michael Buckley After their parents disappeared, sisters Sabrina and Daphne Grimm were passed from one foster home to the next. Until a grandmother they thought died long ago comes to claim them, and the story she tells them changes their lives forever! Living among the Everafters (we have a feeling you’ll recognize them all), they solve a different fairy tale mystery in every book. Ages 8-12. Shop them here.
42. El Deafoby Cece Bell Introduce your kids to a new kind of superhero with Cece Bell’s autobiographical graphic novel, El Deafo. Losing her hearing at age four, and getting a Phonic Ear to help her hear separated Cece from her classmates, family and friends. But once she figures out she gained some “super” abilities too, she finds her place in the world. Ages 8-12. Get it now.
43. Schomburg: The Man Who Built A Library by Carole Boston Weatherford Afro-Puerto Rican immigrant and hero Arturo Schomburg was a law clerk with a passion: he collected books, letters, art and music from Africa and the African diaspora. Find out how he turned his passion into the curated “Negro Division” collection at the New York Public Library in 1905 when you read this picture book replete with little-known history. Ages 9-12. Get yours here.
44. Last Stop on Market Streetby Matt de la Peña It all starts with a question—“Nana, how come we don’t got a car?”—and the story of young C.J. and the wisdom his grandma imparts is off and running, just like the bus they ride down Market Street after church on Sundays. This simple story about the perspective only grandparents can give their grandkids won the Caldecott Honor award in 2016. Ages 3-5. Buy it now.
45. No, David! by David Shannon The story behind this story is almost as cute as the book itself. When he was five, author David Shannon wrote a book about how he broke all of his mother’s house rules. This is the re-telling of that story. It’s a simple one where David keeps getting into trouble, as curious kids are want to do, and his mother keeps reminding him, “No, David!” Ages 4-8. Get it here.
46. Black Boy Joy: 17 Stories Celebrating Black Boyhood From seventeen acclaimed Black male and non-binary authors, and edited by bestselling author Kwame Mbalia, comes a vibrant collection of stories, comics, and poems about the power of joy and the wonders of Black boyhood. Get it here.
47. Where the Wild Things Are by Maurice Sendak With only 338 words and beautiful illustrations, Sendak's chronicle of Max and the Wild Things will stick with your lil' king long after they've grown out of their tantrums. Reign over curious monsters, and find comfort in a bowl of soup with this classic story. Ages 4-8. Buy it now. .
49. The Fun Jungle series by Stuart Gibbs For any kid who wished they lived at Disney World, this story’s for you! Teddy Fitzroy’s parents work with exotic animals at the world-renown theme park—Fun Jungle—one as a photographer, the other a biologist, which puts Teddy and his mystery-solving sidekick Summer at the center of things when animals go missing. Currently, there are four books in this entertaining series by Stuart Gibbs. Ages 8-12. Get them here.
50. The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe by C.S. Lewis Despite not having a single clue what Turkish Delights were, our mouths were watering for some right at the beginning of C.S. Lewis' most famous work. Pick The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe (or start from the beginning of The Chronicles of Narnia with The Magician's Nephew) for a truly epic tale of good versus evil. There's magic, talking animals, complex characters and a huge battle at the end. Ages 8 & up. Buy it now.
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51. There’s a Wocket in My Pocket by Dr. Seuss Sometimes we all feel quite certain there’s a jertain in the curtain ... this classic, wonderful, whimsical book of rhyme encourages young readers to get creative and silly with language. Ages 2-3. Get it here.
52. Esperanza Rising by Pam Munoz Ryan In a story about overcoming the obstacles life throws at you, this book by Pam Munoz Ryan stands out. Forced by circumstances, Esperanza and her Mama trade a pampered life in Mexico for the life of Mexican farmworkers in California during the Great Depression. As uplifting as it’s the title, this is a must-read for older kids. Ages 8-12. Buy it now.
53. Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Skyby Kwame Mbalia The first book in a trilogy, this book punched a hole in the amazing-novels-for-middle-graders scene. During a month at his grandparent's house which he thinks is going to be boring, Tristan Strong, ends up on an unexpected adventure encountering figures from both West African gods along with African American folk heroes. Not the summer he was expecting. Ages 9-12. Get it here.
54. Stone Soup This folktale hails from many countries, but the core message of cooperation and kindness remain the same. Read this story while boiling away, it really does make a clever recipe. There are dozens of variations available. Ages 4-8. Get it now.
56. My Heart Fills with Happinessby Monique Gray Smith What makes your little one happy? Reflect on the joy of simple things, like holding hands, drumming and the smell of warm bannock baking in the oven (psst … it’s a type of fry bread) as you turn the pages of this brightly illustrated board book. A gorgeous vehicle for an oft-needed reminder! Ages 2-4. Buy it here.
57. The Snowy Day by Ezra Jack Keats Explore a tranquil winter wonderland with Peter, an African-American boy who dons a rather iconic red suit. Keats' illustrations have a humble and peaceful aura that makes us eager for winter. Ages 3-5. Buy it today.
58. Madeline by Ludwig Bemelmans This seven-year-old French girl will have your maestros claiming how much they love their bread, butter and most of all, each other. Madeline's chic outfits and polite behavior will have you saying, "Oui," whenever this story is pulled from the shelves. Age 3-8. Get it now.
59. Forest Worldby Margarita Engle This newly released novel follows Edver as he travels from America to Cuba to visit family he barely knows, including an older sister Luza. The two work together trying to get their mother to visit, and get mixed up in some serious business while they’re at it. A blending of culture, technology and time, this book is an engaging read for older kids. Ages 10 & up. Buy it here.
60. A Wrinkle in Time by Madeline L'Engle Travel between universes and go on an adventure that digs into the meaning of family bonding and friendship. Note to sensitive bookworms: The plot can get dark and teems with unsavory characters. Ages 10 & up. Get it here.
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61. Make Way for Ducklingsby Robert McCloskey There's a statue in Boston Public Garden of McCloskey's mother duck and her eight ducklings. Your fluffy waddler is going to want to visit the Boston park after seeing all the popular spots on paper. Ages 6-8. Get it here.
62. Corduroy by Don Freeman Everyone loves teddy bears, and there's no furry friend more lovable than Corduroy. This small teddy bear in overalls, waiting to become someone's best friend, is a classic story for all generations. Ages 3 & up. Buy it now.
63. The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman This award-winner is a fanciful tale about a boy named Bod, who was raised in a graveyard by the ghoulies and ghosts who live there. Caught between two worlds, the living and the dead, he’s got challenges to face. Will he be up to the task? Ages 10 & up. Get it here.
64. The True Story of the Three Little Pigs by John Scieszka For those who know that the truth is out there, you’ve gotta get your hands on The True Story of the Three Little Pigs. Told by the Big Bad Wolf (from the comfort of his jail cell many years after the incident) he proclaims his innocence and insists it was all a misunderstanding. Ages 5-8. Buy it here.
65. Green Eggs and Ham by Dr. Seuss Written using only a variety of 50 words, Green Eggs and Ham is a great pre-reading book that even we enjoy perusing through again and again. The pickiest toddlers might even learn a thing or two about trying anything once. Ages 3-7. Get it here.
66. The Library Lion by Michelle Knudsen and Kevin Hawkes A lion in the library should cause chaos, but not in this case! This charming story teaches kids to follow the rules but also helps to develop their own judgment on when it's okay to break them. Ages 4-8. Buy it now.
67. Little Kunoichi, The Ninja Girl by Sanae Ishida She trains in a secret ninja school on a secret island. But, truth be told, Little Kunoichi has lots to learn about being a skilled ninja. She trains shugyo style, with determined enlightenment, alongside her friend Chibi Samurai, in preparation for the schools’ Island Festival. Ages 3-7. Get it today.
68. Charlotte's Webby E. B. White and Garth Williams Many of us can credit Charlotte's Web for teaching us the words "humble," "radiant" and "salutations." Remember to prepare tissues for this story of love, friendship and community. Ages 8-11. Buy it now.
69. Lucky Broken Girl by Ruth Behar A compelling coming-of-age story, Lucky Broken Girl remembers the author’s early years, her immigration to New York from Cuba and the devastating car crash that left her confined to bed in a body cast. A powerful read about the strength of the human spirit. Ages 10-12. Get it here.
70. The Dot by Peter H. Reynolds For anyone who’s ever felt they weren’t creative enough, this uplifting story was written for you. Vashti, a young artist, turns a simple dot she drew out of frustration into a prolific installation all her own. Ages 4 & up. Get it here.
71. The Story of Ferdinand by Munro Leaf All timid bull Ferdinand wants to do is sit under his cork tree in the shade and smell the flowers. But a case of mistaken ability leads Ferdinand to the bullfights in Madrid, where he comes face to face with the Banderilleros, Picadores and the brave Matador who, try as they might, just can’t get him to fight. Ages 3-5. Get it here.
72. Who's Driving? by Leo Timmers Figure out who is driving what vehicle! Is it the rabbit, the snake, the pig or any of the other adorable animals that trot through the pages? Timmers' book is a guessing game and story all in one. Ages 2-5. Buy it here.
73. Olivia the Pig series by Ian Falconer Featured on stamps, TV shows and even on an iPad app, Olivia the Pig is one of the most beloved characters of children's stories. Olivia's love for life will rub off on even the quietest of kids. Ages 3-5. Check them out here.
74. I Stink by Kate & Jim McMullan It’s hard to pick just one of these books, told from the POV of the machine and detailing a night on the job. In I Stink we find a belching dual-op garbage truck. We’re also fans of I’m Dirty (backhoe), I’m Cool (a Zamboni) and I’m Brave (fire truck). Get them all! We won’t stop you. 4 & up. Buy it here.
75. I Dissent, Ruth Bader Ginsburg Makes Her Mark by Debbie Levy A non-fiction picture book that walks kids through the life and accomplishments of the Notorious RBG, readers will learn tons about this famous sitting Supreme Court Justice. From her early life New York to her days in law school where she was one of nine women in a program of over 500 men, to the fact that according to her family, she can’t cook a pot roast to save her life, little tidbits of inspiration are scattered throughout this easy-to-read bio. Ages 4-8. Get your copy today.
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76. Love the Worldby Todd Parr The latest bright and boldly illustrated book by Todd Parr, Love the World sends a message of positivity to young readers everywhere. With Parr’s trademark simplicity, the author invites everyone to love—the world, your face, your space, your walk … and the list goes on. Ages 3-6. Buy it now.
77. Click, Clack, Moo, Cows that Type by Doreen Cronin A book that answers the question, what would happen if farm animals could communicate, this fun romp details a long-coming standoff between Farmer Brown and his cows. Their demand? Blankets to keep them warm in the barn at night. The hilarious back-and-forth negotiations will leave you and your kids LOL-ing during story time. Ages 5-7. Get yours today.
78. Frog and Toad collection by Arnold Lobel Sledding in winter to eating ice cream on hot summer days, Frog and Toad are best friends who go on leisurely adventures. These five poignant short stories are an ideal start for new readers. Ages 4-8. Buy it now.
79. Old Turtle by Douglas Wood If illustrations are your kid’s jam, put this picture book on your bookshelf. In it, Old Turtle explains the nature of creation and God through a series of wise and spiritually focused answers. Simply beautiful storytelling. Ages 4-8. Get yours today.
80. I Want My Hat Back by Jon Klassen Have you seen my hat? Gentle bear is on the lookout for his missing red cap, and guess where he finds it? This is one of those books that doesn’t require words on every page to tell the story and will leave your kiddos guessing and giggling. As fun to read for grown-ups as for littles. Don’t miss: This Is Not My Hat and We Found a Hat. Ages 4-8. Buy it now.
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81. The Mercy Watson series by Kate DiCamillo Mr. & Mrs. Watson don’t have any children, but they do have Mercy, the porcine wonder, and she keeps them just as busy. You can always count on wild romps in these early chapter books by Kate DiCamillo, like Mercy’s hankering for buttered toast that requires a fire department response, or her search for buttered popcorn that leaves an outdoor movie theater in shambles. Ages 6-9. Get yours today.
82. The Percy Jackson series by Rick Riordan With the release of The Lightning Thief, author Rick Riordan proved what English majors have known for generations—myths are some of the coolest stories around! Follow the adventures of ADHD high schooler Percy Jackson as he diligently works to figure out who stole Zeus’ lightning bolt (in the first book), and then keeps Kronos from taking over the world (throughout the rest of the series). Ages 10-14. Buy it now.
83.Press Here by Herve Tullet A totally interactive book that asks readers to press dots, move the book around and all manner of things making each page a surprise. Watch as each page brings multiplying dots and more. It’s funny and clever. They’ll read it on repeat. Ages 2-6. Get it today.
84. My Father’s Dragon by Ruth Stiles Gannett This classic and Newbery honor book was first published in 1940, starring Elmer Elevator. Elmer packs his bag (with two dozen pink lollipops, rubber bands, chewing gum, and a fine-toothed comb) and heads out on a rescue mission to save a flying baby dragon. Ages 4-8. Buy it now.
85. Clementine by Sara Pennypacker Clever, creative and not-so-common third-grader Clementine lives in an apartment building in the city with her artistic parents: she’s like a modern-day Ramona Quimby who tackles all the big issues: being sent to the principal’s office, getting a new sibling, having a best friend who is opposite of her, and more. There are more books in the series too! Ages 7-10. Get it now.
86. The Mysterious Benedict Society books by Trenton Lee Stewart This excellent collection features genius orphans battling an evil villain. Older kids will love trying to solve brainteasers and mysteries. Ages 10 & up. Get it here.
87. Rainbow Fishby Marcus Pfister Sometimes being special makes you feel like an outsider. But when the Rainbow Fish learns to share his gift with others, he makes friends easily. This classic from your childhood is another good one to share with your little bookworm. Ages 4-8. Get it now.
88. Goodnight Ganeshaby Nadia Saloman Told with stunning illustrations by Pooam Mistry, Nadia Saloman's bedtime story explores the rich beauty of an Indian night. Children will follow along with the rhyming prose as grandparents and grandchildren get ready for bed. Ages 3-7. Get it here.
89. The Spooky Old Treeby Stan & Jan Berenstain Simple rhymes and repetition make this Berenstain Bears book a good one for beginning readers. The illustrations make the larger-than-life spooky old tree come alive, as the three bears make their way across alligator-infested waters, through a creepy hall and over a great sleeping bear, before finally landing safely back at home with Mama Bear. Ages 2-5. Buy it now.
90. Bud, Not Buddy by Christopher Paul Curtis This Newberry Award winner is set in Flint, Michigan in 1936, and centers around the story of Bud Caldwell, a 10-year-old orphan. After escaping an untenable foster situation, Bud and his friend Bugs head West in search of his father, Herman E. Calloway, a musician. What Bud learns and who he finds, in the end, will keep you turning the pages of this novel. Ages 8-12. Buy it here.
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91. Rosie Revere, Engineer by Andrea Beaty This best-selling book about a little girl with big dreams has equally fun spin-offs (Iggy Peck, Architect and Ada Twist, Scientist). The illustrations support the theme with a blocky font and grid background, and the bouncy rhyme begs to be read aloud. The awesome hook here is that Rosie is the great-niece of the famous Rosie the Riveter and is determined to follow in her aunt's groundbreaking footsteps. Ages 4-8. Buy it here.
92. The Ramona Quimby books by Beverly Cleary Short of simply writing “anything ever written by Beverly Cleary” we’re going to be choosy by adding her star novels featuring Ramona Quimby. Spend a few years hanging out with Ramona, Beezus, Howie and the other regulars on Klickitat Street. Ages 8-12.Shop them here.
93. Dragons Love Tacos by Adam Rubin One of several books by the dynamic duo of author Adam Rubin and illustrator Daniel Salmieri, you’ll find yourself suggesting this one for story time again and again. Dragons love tacos but they can’t eat spicy food. When your house burns down, lesson learned. Right? We also love Secret Pizza Party and Robo-Sauce by this duo. Ages 3-7. Get your copy today.
94. The Quickest Kid in Clarksville by Pat Zietlow Miller Alta is the quickest kid in Clarksville, Tennessee, just like her idol, Wilma Rudolph, who went on to win three medals in the 1960 Olympics. Even though Alta has holes in her shoes and faces her toughest competition yet (a new girl with new shoes), she knows she can win, just like Wilma. From foot races to the big parade in Wilma’s honor, Alta shows what it means to be a true champion. Ages 5-8. Get it here.
95. The Lorax by Dr. Seuss It’s hard to not keep putting Dr. Seuss books on this list, but The Lorax holds a special place in the library of children’s books. In true Seussian genius, the greater issue of deforestation and industrialization is told in jolly, lulling rhymes. The best part is the message at the end: kids can help! Ages 6-9. Get it here.
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96. Number the Stars by Lois Lowry An important work of historical fiction, Lois Lowry’s Newberry Award winner offers young readers a glimpse into the Holocaust. Centered around two families living in Copenhagen during WWII, one Jewish, one not, the story chronicles the way a family helped rescue their Danish Jewish neighbors from being sent to a Concentration Camp. Ages 10-12. Get it here.
97. Stellaluna by Janell Cannon When a young fruit bat is separated from her mother, a bird family takes her under their wings to raise her. It doesn’t take long to see her bat behavior is different from that of the daytime adoptive family. But one night, Stellaluna is reunited with her bat family, but she learns that differences really make us all the same. Ages 4-7. Buy it today.
98. The Book with No Pictures by B.J. Novak Comedian B.J. Novak has written a book that is, not surprisingly, guaranteed to make kids laugh, mainly because it makes parents say ridiculous things. Designed to be read out loud by a grown-up, kids will request you read it again and again, even though it actually has no pictures. Ages 5-8. Get it here.
99. Inside Out & Back Again by Thanhha Lai A Newberry Medal and National Book Award signal the significance of this debut novel by Vietnamese writer Thanhha Lai. Loosely autobiographical, the story follows Ha and her family during the Vietnam War, when they are forced to sail to America (Alabama to be specific) after the Fall of Saigon. The free-verse style will capture your kid’s imagination as much as the compelling story will. Ages 8-12. Get it here.
100. Cuddly Critters for Little Geniusesby James and Susan Patterson. This follow-up to the Patterson's best-selling first book (Big Words for Little Geniuses) takes kids on an animal journey that leaves the cows, chickens and sheep in the barnyard. From swimmers to flyers and beyond, kids will discover the sloth, the wombat, the tarsier and much more. Charming illustrations complete the equation, making this book a must-have bookshelf addition. Ages 3-6.Buy now
101. The Night Diaryby Veera Hiranandani In 1947 India, 12-year-old Nisha is not sure where she belongs as a half-Muslim, half-Hindu in her country. When her father decides to leave Pakistan, Nisha and her family become refugees and embark on a long and challenging journey to find a new home. The hopeful and personal story of this family is told through Nisha's letters to her mother. Ages 8-12. Buy it today.
102. Little Blue Truck by Alice Schertle Who doesn’t love the sing-songy rhymes of this toddler fave about a little blue truck, his animal friends and the need to slow down every once in a while? Blue and the farm animals he meets along the way help a big dump truck get unstuck from the mud with a bit of teamwork and a chorus of moo’s, baas and beep beep beeps. Ages 4-7. Get it now.
103. Goodnight Gorilla by Peggy Rathmann This adorably illustrated wordless picture book about a tired zookeeper and a mischievous gorilla puts kids in the narrator’s seat. They’ll have to pay close attention to the illustrations to get the full, hilarious story here. If books that put your kid to sleep are what you’re looking for, try these. Ages 1-3. Get it here.
104. Rain Reign by Ann M. Martin This touching story of a young girl with Asperger’s and her beloved dog, Rain, is set against the backdrop of a fictional hurricane that floods Rose’s rural town. During the storm, Rose’s dog disappears and her quest to find him brings her closer to friends, classmates and family. Ages 9-12. Buy it today.
105. One Crazy Summerby Rita Williams-Garcia One Crazy Summer is the story of three young sisters who set out from New York to spend a month in California with their poet mother. The year is 1968, and they soon find out the summer they have envisioned is far from the one they experience during their stay. This award-winning book is a fantastic snapshot of a moment in America’s history. Ages 8-12. Get it now.
Let’s face it: canceled plans have become part of the pandemic parent’s lexicon. From delayed vacations to postponed field trips, we know that this upcoming school year is a wild card. The good news is, whether it’s at a science museum or under a rock in their own backyard, kids can find adventure just about anywhere. And your favorite snack brand Nature’s Bakery is here to help by offering parents and teachers the chance to sign up and receive FREE adventure kits!
Introducing Snack Sized Adventures: simple and inexpensive tech-free activities that require minimal planning time and get families off screens and couches and out in the world together, encouraging active living and illustrating the values Nature’s Bakery holds dear. Snack Sized Adventures taps into the insights behind the adventures: how hard it is to find just the right thing at just the right time, a parent’s love-hate relationship with their packed schedule, the struggle of just getting the crew out of the house. The Snack Sized Adventures microsite is perfect for those days when you need a little help to keep things interesting: rainy days, at-home days, weekends or after school. Each adventure helps to increase family bonding and bridge the gap between every day and amazing.
Now, just in time for back-to-school season, Nature’s Bakery brings families and teachers Snack Sized Adventures: Field Trip Edition—meant to increase bonding time and restore the nostalgia of in-person school field trips that might not be possible this year. Families can receive curated, fun field trip excursion kits designed to inspire adventures in the living room or classroom—at no cost! Parents can visit the Snack Sized Adventures microsite to sign up and receive a kit for their family or share the goodness by nominating their child’s teacher to win a Snack Sized Adventure: Field Trip Edition kit for the classroom. To further support today’s educators, teachers can nominate themselves and other colleagues to win the kit as well.
Each Jurassic-themed kit delivers easy, tech-free fun with instructional cards and activities, along with a variety of Nature’s Bakery snack bars, designed to replicate that “field trip” vibe no matter what the 2021-22 school year throws at you. Nature’s Bakery’s Snack Sized Adventures: Field Trip Edition kits are packed with all the supplies kids need to learn about different types of dinosaurs and ways for your kids to use their junior archeological skills for fossil digging fun.
Just like always, Nature’s Bakery will be every parent’s go-to, wholesome and delicious fuel for wherever each Snack Sized adventure takes you. Nature’s Bakery is already known for their wholesome, yummy plant-based snacks, free of dairy, nuts and GMOs and packed with balanced nutrition. Now they’re here to not only help your kiddos snack healthy but spark their imaginations too!
It is said that in order to create a product, you first need to find a problem that needs fixing. Since parents are great at this (How many times have we thought, “There must be a better way?”), a number of dads have risen to the occasion with inventions that are genius solutions to problems or improvements to must-have parenting products. From crayon blocks to safer car seats, see our top dad-invented products below.
The story goes like this: avid skier turned new dad Drake Muson was excited to go out and play in the snow with his twins—until it came time to get the kids dressed. Like nearly every other parent out there, he thought “What goes on first? The coat and then the gloves? Or the gloves first, so the coat sleeves stay over the glove cuffs?” No matter what gloves he tried, he couldn’t find one that was actually easy to put on and stay on. So he created his own “thumbless” gloves made with super-warm material that comes with a thumb pocket and a big gauntlet to go over the puffiest coat. Plus, from tiger paws to penguins, Mittyz comes in a variety of fun colorful designs.
When Scott Morris put his adult sunglasses on a friend’s four-month-old while attending a baseball game, he realized that no one was making high-quality baby sunglasses and found his new mission in life. Not only did Scott created tyke-sized shades, but matching adult ones too! The glasses are just as fun as their name, which is a play on the classic rock, paper and scissors game. Ro-Sham-Bo Baby glasses are scientifically tested, certified safe, and each comes with a damage and lens replacement guarantee. And if you can’t decide on which ones to get, try out their five sizes at home for free for seven days.
A born entrepreneur, Brian Weisfeld’s first business venture was buying 95 pounds of gummy bears in grade school and hiring his friends to sell them! Now a father of two girls, he and fellow writer Nicole C. Kear created “The Startup Squad,” a book that shows entrepreneurship can empower young girls to develop important life skills, follow their passions and reach their potential, all while building true friendships. Your little girl will learn the tools of the trade from Weisfeld while being engaged by the story of four girls and their amazing lemonade stand. Meet natural leader Resa, detail-oriented Amelia, head of sales Harriet and problem-solver Didi. Sure, each of these girls could create their own lemonade stand, but watch what happens when they decide to work together. The Startup Squad also has a place where parents can submit their own mini-CEO for a feature on the website!
Flying with kids has never been an easy task, but the 3-in-1 product, Armrest Buddy aims to ease a few of the burdens. Created by James Thorn, Head of Design at Roamwild, an Arm Rest Buddy is a soft plush animal, blanket and travel pillow that slips right on top of a plane’s armrests. “We were on the way back from Spain, and my youngest refused to wear the travel neck pillow we bought for the trip. I spent most of the flight with my head in my hands—but the good news is it prompted me to come up with the Armrest Buddy,” says Thorn. But while the plane trip served as the inspiration for the product, the Armrest Buddy will go anywhere you do whether traveling by car, bus, coach, train or ferry. Each set comes with an ample-sized and soft blanket made from premium and hand-washable fabrics.
Okay, maybe this isn’t fair as we already featured Drake Muson, inventor of Mittyz, but his other product is just as great. Noggins are sun hats that will not only protect your little guys from the sun, but they are also easy to put on and will stay on. Designed in blue or pink camo print, Noggins come with a 50+ UPF rating and an oversized brim which helps to block out even more sun. The hats are equipped with safety-release buckles on the chin straps that adjust as your kids get older (no more pinches on the chin) and a mesh inner lining to help the kiddos stay cool. Then, Muson went full circle creating Winter Noggins that come in orange or pink tiger stripes and match the tiger stripe Mittyz.
While many babies delight when it comes to feeding time, Martin Hill noticed that his baby boy was pretty fussy when it was his turn to feed the baby. Hill knew the infant would calm down when was read to, but trying to hold a book, a bottle and a baby at the same time was quite a feat. To rectify that, he created The Beebo, a bottle holder that straps on, allowing parents to free up one hand—imagine the possibilities! Martin’s wife loved that she could now feed the baby and enjoy meals with the rest of the family—at the same time.
After one frazzled dad lectured his daughter on how traditional crayons are made from paraffin wax and how the colors are created from chemicals, his daughter said, “Then, why don’t you make crayons that are safe for kids and the environment?” And he did. Saving the planet one crayon at a time, Crayon Blocks are made from organic beeswax, are paraffin free, created with FDA-approved food-grade colors and are 100% biodegradable. Unlike traditional crayons that can snap in half easily, Crayon Blocks are made sturdy so they won’t break easily in little one’s hands. And they are made in the U.S.A. too!
Many dads consider diaper bags as a necessary evil. They're big, bulky and are often “cuter” than most dads want to carry around. That’s pretty much how Bill Lobe thought of them as well. As an avid hiker, Lobe knows only all too well how packing light can be a real advantage. “When my wife, Megan, and I had our first kid, I saw that giant diaper bag and freaked out. It just didn’t make sense to carry a bunch of stuff we didn’t need. I researched other options and couldn’t find any carrier that was compact and durable, so I decided to make my own.” More like a wallet than a diaper bag, the BratPack is just 8” x 5” when folded up. When opened, it becomes a mini changing station holding everything you need and can easily slip into a stroller or even a back pocket. The expandable elastic pockets can hold several diapers, wet clothes, pacifiers, etc. The BratPack is made from durable material in solid-colored designs used in high-end backpacks and is easy to clean.
When Jason and his wife Helen discovered that 70% more harmful UV rays can reach a child’s retinas than adults, they searched for suitable sunglasses for their son Brandon. Unfortunately, what they found were two types of shades: ones that were cheaply made or expensive ones from high-end designers who didn't know how to appropriately design for kids. So Jason created his own brand. Toucca Kids are designed to be both functional yet durable and are made with non-fading, hypoallergenic and eco-friendly acetate. Each pair is made with TAC polarized lenses, German-made OBE spring hinges and comfort-fit nose pads
While you might not have any trouble getting your kids to take a bath, for other families, the struggle is real. When Ray Phillips worked as a program director for a facility that treated children who had experienced trauma, he found that bath time was one of the most difficult events of the day. One child just couldn’t bear to be separated from this stuffed toy friend. So, Phillips modified the animal to hold a bar of soap and suddenly, bath time was fun once again. SoapSox are cuddly companions that kids can play with all day long and then join them in the tub later in the day. “A patented soap pocket transforms lovable SoapSox into sudsy washcloth—just add soap and scrub. It’s the way kids want to wash!” says Phillips.
It’s no surprise to learn that the inventor of GooseEgged has three very active children. One day, inspiration literally hit when Mike Ross’s son took a bad fall and came running with a very large bump on his forehead. “We tried everything—an ice pack in the shape of an animal, a plastic bag full of ice, even a bag of frozen peas—and there was no good solution!” says Ross. He spent months doing research and ended up with a genius product: GooseEgged ice packs feature fun cartoon characters, adjustable straps and a soft inside, which provide cool, comfortable relief while also allowing your kids to continue moving around. The ice packs are great for infants and toddlers who won’t sit still, and they can bring a slight smile to one who has a fever as well.
Australian dad James Dutton is the creator of Patch Strips—reinventing common, everyday bandages with ones made from bamboo. The reason? His son is allergic to some of the materials used to make traditional bandages. Today, Patch Strips offers a whole line of different adhesive bandages for a variety of needs using other natural products like aloe vera, charcoal and coconut oil. And since bamboo grows many times faster than trees, uses much less water, produces up to 35% more oxygen and doesn’t need pesticides or herbicides to grow, Patch Strips are “good for you, good for the planet.” “We take pride in using organic certified components—so you know it's only the good stuff!” says Dutton.
Becoming dad to baby Stella, “was the most amazing thing to happen to me,” says Crescent Womb founder, James Spencer. “With infants sleeping an average of 17 hours a day, a safe sleep environment is paramount. Unfortunately, all of the ‘safer’ options were too expensive for my budget as a college student, and none of them fully addressed my concerns with safe sleep. So I created something better.” By designing a sleep system that reduces the risks associated with early infancy, Spencer slept better too! Crescent Womb is designed to support your baby as if it were being held. The mesh sleep surface of its hammock-like design helps babies to self-soothe while increasing breathability and reducing the risk of over-heating and suffocation. Plus, Crescent Womb is portable, machine washable, and able to be attached to just about any crib.
“Make Every Arrival a Safe Arrival” is the motto for Safe Ride 4 Kids, creating safer car seats. Safe Ride 4 Kids was founded by Greg Durocher (along with his wife Annie)—a former fireman, paramedic and child passenger safety technician instructor. Together they have more than 25 years of car seat safety experience and have created two new ways to keep your precious cargo intact. First, the crash-tested Tummy Shield effectively minimizes the risk that the seat belt will intrude into a pregnant tummy during a crash or sudden braking incident. It can also make driving or riding in a vehicle much more comfortable for a pregnant mom. The second is the Ride Safer Travel Vest for kids age three and older and is a legal alternative to the booster seat and traditional car seat. The Ride Safer Travel Vest properly positions the vehicle’s seat belt on the child, lowers their center of gravity and, in the event of a crash, spreads the crash force across the vest instead of just the width of the seat belt like in a booster.
As a 2016 Toy of the Year Finalist, PlayTape, from the mind of Andy Musliner, can create roads and instantly. Just unroll, stick and drive! PlayTape sticks to any flat surface and is easy to tear by hand and reposition. It peels up without any residue and is recyclable, so cleaning up is easy. PlayTape is compatible with, and made-to-scale for, the most popular toy cars and trains on the market so you can use PlayTape with the toys you already have. Pop a roll of PlayTape and car in your kid’s pocket, and they’ll be set for hours!
Made By Dad: 67 Blueprints for Making Cool Stuff was written by Scott Bedford. It features tons of inventions and activities that dads can do and make with their kids, like a 3D Snakes and Ladders game, a remote action figure zip line, a paper steampunk balancing robot, a blazing paper volcano, a speedy rubber band rocket car reversible paper castle, “off the wall” sports drinks and more. Encouraging family bonding, interaction and loads of creativity, all of the activities vary in difficulty and come with step-by-step instructions and helpful illustrations.
Designed by a parent for parents, the Airtushi aims to help busy on-the-go parents. It's the only inflatable high chair with a padded seat, sides, backrest and front bumper bar aiding in sitting development. Great for road trips or visiting grandma’s house, the Airtushi will fit any chair and features rigid sides preventing sideways toppling. It is suitable for any child age six months to three years of age, it's quick to inflate and it cleans up nicely. All of this, and it packs down very small and flat to slip easily in a stroller or diaper bag.
Believe it or not, someone has created a compact booster seat that can actually be stored in the glove compartment! Ten times smaller than a regular booster seat, Mifold meets or exceeds regulatory standards for booster seats and easily fits in a backpack, making it super easy and smart for vacation travel or when grandma needs to pick up your little guy at school. Jon Sumroy invented the Mifold when his own kids were small. “Our children were being driven everywhere by other people as well as ourselves,” says Sumroy. “Car safety is important to us and, we wanted to make sure that the kids always had the correct car seat, but we often found that booster seats were not available; especially when we were carpooling with other families. So, I thought, if I could make a booster that was really small and really tough, that could easily be taken everywhere, then our children would always be safe, no matter whose car they are in.”
As a father of two young boys, Adam Nelson knows the challenges of getting little ones to bed when it is still light out. “Having a bright light, even a regular nightlight, in a child's room inhibits teaching them that when it is dark, it is time for sleep, and when it is light, it’s time to get up,” says Nelson. His Good Nite Lite invention helps to trains kids to associate light with daytime activities and darkness with nighttime and rest. It does this by displaying easily recognized "Moon" and “Sun” caricatures, letting kids know that is time to wake up and that it's okay to get out of bed. During the day, the Good Nite Lite automatically shuts itself off to eliminate any distractions and to conserve energy.
According to the website, the Veer Cruiser is designed "for those who prefer to take the paths less traveled," a premium stroller strong enough to last from the firstborn to your last born. The brainchild of stroller expert Andrew Bowman, who saw parents struggling to push and pull kids and gear across hilly terrain, the Veer Cruiser is a baby carrier and portable bed for infants, a stroller for toddlers and a wagon for older kids—all in one. It features stain and fades resistant fabric sidewalls, expanding footwell, an adjustable handle height, performance handle grips, 3-point passenger harnesses, one-touch footbrake, front comfort suspension, large rugged knobby tires, rear-wheel fenders, one-hand folding and six cup holders! The only thing this bad boy won't do is change diapers.
The Dad Hoodie
courtesy The Dad Hoodie
For dads who shudder at the idea of lugging around a diaper bag, let alone one that was designed by women for women, you’ll love the concept behind The Dad Hoodie. Dad inventor Taylor Llewellyn came up with the idea of becoming a human diaper bag by fitting regular-looking hoodie with a mesh lining and various pockets to hold bottles, diapers, wet wipes as well as dad’s wallet and cell phone. “Over the shoulder diaper bags are constructed to survive natural disasters and shrapnel, with enough supplies for weeks. Most Dads only need to carry a few baby supplies to knock out that steady stream of errands,” says Llewellyn. The hoodies are quality sewn, come in navy or heather grey and look “normal.” Plus, you can even act like a secret agent dad with all of your secret compartments!
You bought a new slip ‘n slide, you stocked up on craft supplies and you have a shelf full of books to keep your kids entertained this summer—or so you’d hope. No matter how prepared we are for summer, at some point every parent hears those dreaded two words: I’m bored. Luckily, the internet has an endless supply of entertainment and Families.Google has made it easier than ever for families to find the stuff that’s both enriching and fun. Keep reading to see how three moms are using Google’s Digital Fun resources this summer:
Natasha’s twins love being creative together, whether it’s doing nail art, reading the same books or exploring crafts on YouTube. Google’s Digital Fun resources make it easy to find ways to be creative as a family, including virtual tours of museums, I Spy games and online coloring books.
Yes, summer just started, but we all know how back to school sneaks up on us. Chelsi is helping her soon-to-be Kindergartener get in the learning mindset this summer with STEM activities from Families.Google, including math tips from Sesame Street and videos about science and space.
Families.Google has digital fun for kids of all ages, which is perfect for Vera—who is always on the lookout for things that her eight year old and thirteen year old can enjoy together. As a fun family bonding activity, Vera’s kids can learn music through Chrome Music Lab or solve a virtual puzzle together!
This has been quite the year and moms for sure got the brunt of it all. Send her away on a zen-focused vacation and make one of these tiny homes the destination. They have the totally cute factor that she’ll love and (sadly) no room for the family to come along. The mom getaway awaits!
Take in the beauty of Joshua Tree from this Classic Airstream Land Yacht trailer. At 31 feet, it’s just cozy enough for you and your little adventurers. The Airstream has a private deck and stock tank pool for cooling off while you enjoy the incredible desert scenery.
For a totally "out of this world" adventure, book a few nights at this restored Futuro House in Joshua Tree. This totally off-the-grid home has fresh water in the outdoor shower and a fire pit where you can eat under the stars. Solar power is available to charge your small electronics but there's no WiFi, just board games to enjoy in this gorgeous area of California. Check out our guide for ideas of what to do in the area.
For a magical vacation experience, try the beautiful and secluded Mushroom Dome Cabin. This popular hideaway near Santa Cruz treats you to acres of land to explore, a garden full of hummingbirds and incredible night skies.
This modern tiny house is your launch pad for exploring the city of Atlanta. With two queen beds, a bathroom and a full kitchen, this little rental has everything to host your family The private fenced yard has a fire pit and ping pong for a relaxed night in, and the location makes it easy to pop out to enjoy the sights of the city.
Nestled in the hills of LA's Topanga Canyon, this bohemian treehouse-for-two is built in an old oak tree overlooking a seasonal waterfall. Escape here for a romantic getaway (sans kids), or for a parent-and-me glamping adventure. It's the perfect chance to unplug (from all those Zooms!) and get back to nature.
Check out life on a working dude ranch with this tiny house in Nevada. Situated on the Sandy Valley Ranch and only one hour from Las Vegas, The Hummingbird is a western-themed rental with tons of charm. Guests can enjoy meals in the ranch house and book horseback rides when available.
Head to Vermont for an enchanted stay at the tiny and whimsical Apple Blossom Cottage. With enough room for five guests, this sweet little home makes the perfect nesting place for a relaxing vacation. Make s’mores around the fire pit, enjoy the beauty of the gardens and mountains from the front porch or chill inside with the provided selection of board games and books.
This light and airy Taos cottage sleeps four and has fantastic sky and mountain views, as well as an outdoor fire pit. Perfect for families, this rental has enough room to lounge and stretch out while still being uniquely compact. The house is close enough for a quick visit to town but private enough to unwind and relax in peace.
This private room in a treehouse is a charming retreat for a mom & me or dad & me adventure. Here you'll be perched six blocks from The San Diego Bay, three blocks to the Village of Little Italy, and six blocks from the world famous Balboa Park and San Diego Zoo. Fun features include an outdoor shower, a shaded outdoor living room and bbq grill, access to a fully equipped gourmet kitchen and three outdoor decks. The upper deck has a fireplace and boasts views of the San Diego skyline and San Diego Bay.
It’s all about easy breezy beach vibes at this bright tiny house in Sarasota, modeled after a lifeguard stand. Close to Siesta Key, this cheery charmer sleeps four and has two queen beds, TV, WiFi, a full bathroom, kitchen, surfboard-shaped breakfast bar and indoor and outdoor dining areas. The perfect vacation home for sand, sun and fun!
Step up your family bonding with a quiet tiny house in the woods on the Finger Lakes. This comfy spot sleeps four and allows for plenty of quiet relaxation. A shared lodge on the property has tables and chairs, as well as a bathroom, showers and the kitchen.
Insider Tip: This tiny house has a two-night minimum, so book a full weekend (or more!) and get ready to unplug and escape.
If you have a sense of adventure, you’ll love booking with Getaway! You won’t know your exact secret location until after you book, and that’s all part of the fun. Getaway escapes are within two hours of D.C., New York or Boston. On the day of your arrival, you’ll receive a text and email with the name of your tiny cabin. The D.C. escape is on 80 acres of woods and has 20 tiny cabins that fit 2 or 4 people. Kitchens are stocked with kitchen essentials, as well as snacks and simple meals for purchase. For the family that’s always up for some spontaneity, this is for you.
Experience the majestic mountain views and enjoy tiny house living at this spot in Welches, Oregon. The Mt. Hood Tiny House Village at Mt. Hood Village RV Resort is near Mt. Hood National Forest and just an hour from Portland, Oregon. The charming tiny houses sleep between 3 and 5 people, with full bathrooms and kitchens. Hiking trails and an on-site pool, playground and restaurant make this a great stop for families.
The bright deluxe cabins at the Waterloo KOA fit 4-8 people, so there’s room for your whole crew! Kids will love walking out the door to the campground’s playground and swimming beach. For even more fun, Lost Island, Iowa’s largest waterpark, is just a half mile down the road.
Try out the tiny house lifestyle in this resort on 28 acres just two hours outside of New York City. In your tiny house at Think Big A Tiny House Resort, you’ll find linens, kitchenware, full bath, WiFi, cable TV, Netflix, private patio, fire pit, outdoor dining table and more. Guests are welcome to herbs and veggies from the garden, fresh eggs from the chickens, board games, DVDs and plenty of other luxuries to make your stay amazing. Visit the website for the most current rates and availability.
No one here is going to debate the fact that 2020 was a tough year. Many of us have faced illness, loss, and challenges we never thought (homeschooling while feeding a baby and attending a Zoom meeting, for example). We asked our staff here at Tinybeans Family Brands to think of what their silver lining was for 2020, and we think you’ll relate to a lot of these. From family bonding to showing up, self-care, and celebrating the little things, read on to see what our staff is grateful for this year and add your voice to the conversation.
We took on a new view of school and saw our children shine…
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“I have loved seeing my youngest son thrive in the distance learning environment when last year he really struggled in school due to his learning differences.” —Kate L, Bay Area Editor; National Content & Calendar Manager
“My elder daughter got to be on her college campus and have mask-to-mask classes this fall! It was a different freshman experience than she expected but she was happy that she got to go.” —Kim, Advertising Sales Director
“This year, because of distance learning, I have been able to be a fly-on-the-wall to hear my son interacting with his peers. I’ve heard him stepping up to lead discussions, keep kids on track, ask questions, crack jokes, and help his classmates. As a parent, you always hope your kid is doing the right thing when you aren’t around and it’s nice to get a sneak-peek that affirms this.” —Amber, Managing Editor
“When I reflect back on these past few months, one of the most impactful experiences I encountered, was actually witnessing that my son has turned into a mature, hard-working professional! He graduated college 1 1/2 years ago, and has been living and working in NYC. He came home to live with us in March and has been working remotely from our home these last few months. His bedroom and my office share a wall, and I absolutely love hearing him on his work calls with clients and colleagues. Sometimes, I have to pinch myself that this is my son—I am so proud to hear him speak with a sense of professionalism and witness his strong work ethic as a mature young man!” — Kathy, Bump & Baby, NYC & DC Ad Director
We learned the importance of self-care and the beauty in the mundane…
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“2020 has taught me a lot about how I hold myself accountable for my own happiness—daily exercise, creating a work-life balance, and time for reflection and gratitude are now things I'm actively working on and I'm much happier because of it!” —Sarah, Senior Product Designer
“I've realized I don't need so much ‘stuff’ in my life; pricey makeup, expensive workouts, clothes I never wear, highlights every six weeks...I colored my own hair for the first time in two decades and it came out pretty darn good.” — Jamie, Copywriter
“2020 made me realize how important it is to surround yourself with people you love/care about the most. Especially when times get tough!” —Nora, Partnership Marketing Coordinator
“Getting COVID allowed me to snuggle with my sick daughter for 10 nights straight and not worry about how I was going to get her back into her own bed.” —Julie G., NY Sales Director
“I've learned to never again take the fact that I can walk into a grocery store and get what I need, for granted.” —Karly, Pinterest Editor
We saw people step up and strengthened our community bonds, in spite of distance…
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“During this Thanksgiving season, our 8th-grade students and families showed up for critically poor families, who needed some extra help this holiday season. A single father with seven minors who lives in a one-bedroom apartment, a mother with two kids who suffered through domestic abuse and is now starting a new life during a pandemic...heartbreaking. When the students and the parents came together to provide and show up for these families in need, it was truly beautiful and inspiring. Baskets and boxes of food, generous grocery gift cards and cash donations, and beautifully handmade cards were received by families overcome with emotions that there are still good in people in spite of what is happening in the world." —Engelynne, SoCal Account Director
“The best part of 2020 for my family has been the ‘we're all in this together’ community vibe and more intentional effort everyone is making to stay connected especially since school remains remote for us. From starting virtual book clubs to distanced soccer practices to creating birthday video montages to bike rides on San Francisco's slower streets (we happen to live on one!), it feels like we've formed new or closer bonds with so many people.” —Julie S., NorCal National & SF Account Director
We learned new skills and discovered new places in our own backyard…
“I've never been much of a baker, but I started making sourdough this year! I've made quite a few loaves of bread, some very fluffy pancakes and a delicious pizza crust.” —Kenzie, Director of Partnership Marketing Solutions
“I found out that I love plants and I started to grow them!” —Bing, Head of Finance
“The extra time together as a family was actually really great (most of the time); oh and I think I might be qualified as a sommelier now!" —Tracy, Ad Sales Director, Northwest
"My husband and I actually fought less this year—with less on our calendars and rushing around to the latest activity. My kids are more adaptable than I ever could have imagined—happily wearing masks wherever they went. And finally, I started stand-up paddleboarding which has become a fun new hobby!” —Oliva, Ad Sales Director, Southwest
“We found out that dad is a better cook than mom....so now he gets to cook dinner...a lot! A lot more books have been read and naps have been taken. Schooling at home, I learned that my kid is the one in class who raises his hand and says ‘Is this going to be on the test?' Not gonna lie, I don't miss packing lunches in the mornings. I think we have become more creative/resourceful when faced with shortages of products or restrictions of activities.Finally took down the old shelves, cleaned up the dust bunnies/spider webs, and set up the new shelves. Discovered the Derby Cake (Mazzetti's Bakery, Pacifica, CA). My life is now complete. Company merger and got to meet so many new, fabulous co-workers!" —Marie S., Staff Accountant
“Since our travel and social happenings have been curtailed, it has given my very busy, very on-the-go family a chance to appreciate our house and home. We finished our treehouse, we've started doing the desperately needed updates, and we have discovered that we all love board games—a lot. Oh, and we've watched almost every classic '80s movie known to mankind.” —Gabby, Senior National Editor
“My wife and I explored New York City like never before (in a safe and socially distanced sort of way)! We used the NYC ferry boats to travel around the five boroughs, and explored so many new spots including: Roosevelt Island, Governors Island, Astoria, Bay Ridge, Staten Island, The Rockaways, Brooklyn Bridge Park, Battery Park, and all of Central Park." —Marshall, Senior Director, Client Success and Revenue Operations
2020 has given us a whole lot of family togetherness and proof that life goes on…
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“I had my second son, Parker, right before lockdown. Seeing him grow from a fragile NICU infant to an army crawling, smiley baby who adores everything his big brother does has easily been the best thing of 2020.” —Erin, Head of Editorial
“My wife and I, along with our four boys are closer than ever before, spending so many wonderful meals together ‘breaking bread.’ Also several of the boys commented on how this past summer was the best ever!” —Eddie, CEO
"My youngest finally learned to ride a bike, we now really enjoy our family bike rides and exploring our neighborhood. I’ve realized how much I love being around my husband. In a time like quarantine, this could've gone either way! And, my kids do a pretty great job of hanging out with each other and it's beautiful to see how much they genuinely love each other." —Laura, Email Marketing Manager
“After my maternity leave ended for my third kid in the fall of 2019 I cried (and I'm not a crier). I was so upset that as a working mom that I would never get that time back with my kids; that real 1:1 (or in this case 1:3) time where I devoted all my energy to crafts, snuggles, city adventures, or wherever the day took us. Well, clearly the joke was on me since I don't think we've ever spent as much time together as a family as we have in 2020. While the days are long and trying to juggle it all is trying, I really do enjoy working from home and being there every night for dinner and bedtime—something as a working mom I felt like I missed out on for years.” —Megan, Head of Product Growth
“My silver lining makes me simultaneously joyous and a little guilty. My college and senior-year-in-high school kids were less than excited to have their normal lives (mostly spent away from us) interrupted while we were working remotely, which meant we were all home. It was the longest and most wonderful stretch of the whole family being together in our 21-year parenting journey. And as it turns out, I didn't need to feel guilty about being happy about it. Our kids also appreciated the time with each other and us. It was a silver lining with whipped cream, sprinkles and a cherry on the top.” —Nina, Chief Revenue Officer
“My in-laws ‘escaped’ Manhattan the second week of March to hunker down with us in the Midwest...and ended up staying through mid-June. There were ups and downs but they got to spend three months with our two kids under five and I'm so glad they had a chance to see them grow and change (especially the 1 year old!)." —Jen S., Head of National Sales
“While I did have to start cooking dinner every night, we actually get to eat as a family every night. We have become much more mindful about wasting things, especially food. Weekends feel longer because we spend quality time as a family instead of racing around to birthday parties, sports practices/games, etc.” —Grady, Head of Partnership Marketing
“This year, I welcomed a new baby, a new job, and a new house—a 2020 hat trick.” —Mark, Chief Technology Officer
“We're expecting a new addition in 2021!” —Jen W., Senior. Head of Audience Development
Want to share your silver lining for this year? Send it to amber at tinybeans.com with the subject line Silver Lining and we’ll add to this story.
Every parent with school-aged kids has gone through the gamut of emotions when it comes to school in 2020. Hybrid, in-school, distance learning, Zoom classrooms… add in all the current travel restrictions and I’d be lying if I said it hadn’t crossed my mind to just sell everything and homeschool my kid from an RV.
While I’m not going to do exactly that, we are starting our year with distance learning. And since both my husband and I are working full-time remotely, we wondered: could we actually work and go to school, on the road? We’re a family of three, we’ve never vacationed in an RV together, and we wanted to find out. So, we booked a sweet ride on RVShare and hit the road for a fall adventure. Here’s what we discovered.
Keeping Connected
For our first time out there, I was nervous about trying to work successfully and connect for school from a more remote location or potentially even on the road. We opted to just do three days of school/work on the road and two weekend days. We booked directly on RVShare and were able to communicate directly with the owner to arrange pickup time and location. For the first part of our trip, we decided to stay somewhere a little less remote for the nights/days we knew we’d need a more reliable connection.
If you and your fam need access to Google Hangout or Zoom class meetings, make sure you have everything set up a few minutes earlier than usual. (It’s also a good idea to give your classroom teacher a heads-up in case there are connection issues.) I highly recommend you rent a WiFi hotspot, like this one. It works better and is way more reliable than using your phone.
Tip: If you get a device rental, activate it a day before and make sure it works before you even leave home. If there are any issues, you have a day to troubleshoot, well worth the extra money you spend for a day rental.
Use the Trip to Your Homeschool Advantage
We love fall and have tried to squeeze in fall day trips in the past few years, but this is typically such a busy time of year that it's hard to find the time to do a proper "epic fall colors road trip." Because of our remote work and learn situation, we were finally able to see some of the places on our bucket list and take in the gorgeous fall colors. Plus, it's a great time to travel because a lot of campsites are less crowded, and there's nothing like doing a Google Meet by the campfire.
History & Mystery
Traveling with kids is a great teaching tool. If you plan a few stops along the way, whether they are at quirky roadside attractions or important historical sites, you can turn a break into an important lesson. We stopped at the famous Paul Bunyan/Babe the Blue Ox statue which became the perfect way to discuss myths, legends and icons. (There are at least three states that claim Paul Bunyan as their own!). At the end of each day we took a little time to write in our journals.
Phy Ed
There are basically endless opportunities to do PE when you're camping. We used hikes as our PE every day, and made sure to track our steps at the end of each day to see who walked the most. I actually previewed the campsites online first to make sure that the places we were staying had ample hiking and walking opportunities from our site without having to pack up and drive. Plus, our RV was actually big enough that one of the mornings we did yoga inside!
Botany & Ecology
We planned stops at two different nature preserves, including a unique bog ecosystem, whose signage provided plenty of discussion points. Our son now knows exactly how carnivorous pitcher plants trap their prey, why bogs are fragile ecosystems, and what a Russula vomitus mushroom is (and why you should avoid it). We even saw a tree felled by beavers and one beaver in the pond building his home.
Math & Geography
We were hoping to purchase a pumpkin or two while on the road, and we lucked out when we happened upon a small town farmers market. We used this as a quick math lesson and tried to guess how much the pumpkin would weigh. I also had him calculate the total of our goods and see how much change we'd get back. We even all took turns trying to guess the cost of filling up the RV gas tank by multiplying the price per gallon times the number of gallons we thought the tank held. (We all guessed way under, but que sera sera).
You can also show your kids how to use a map. A real one, with the little lines that show you distance per inch, and latitude and longitude. Have them add up the total distances and compare it to the odometer.
Getting the Right Vehicle
We went big, and it was great! We rented a 31-foot Class C (the kind with the loft above the cab). It even had pop-outs that made a sizeable living area and was a newer model that handled really well (like a large van), but I will admit I was not that keen on backing it into sites or merging in traffic. For that reason, my husband became the primary driver, which worked well for our short little 5-day excursion but might not be feasible if you’re hauling your crew across country and need to take turns driving. My friend Sara @mightyandbright is currently on a two-week long road trip in a 25-feet motorhome with just her and her daughter, and she’s confident driving it herself, so size (and length) really does matter when you’re booking. RVShare has all kinds of vehicles, including tow-behind trailers, sprinter vans and larger motorhomes, so you can find something that fits your family’s size and budget.
A Few More #RVLife Tips & Tricks
I’m not going to list here everything we packed, nor will I give you my amazing recipe ideas for RV cooking (because I don’t have any). We brought a lot of ready-to-eat/easy-prep stuff and quite frankly, there’s a microwave in most RVs these days so I embraced it. (I don’t actually have a microwave at home, so it felt extra luxe). Here are a few things we did pack that you might not think of:
Anti-nausea medication. If you get carsick, you'll never be able to help your kiddo with their homework on the road without this. If they get carsick, well...you know the drill.
There’s a special kind of toilet paper for RV toilets. Your host will probably have some on-hand, but you may want to track down an extra roll or two if you have a big family.
Bring a little notebook to take notes as the RV owner is walking you through the basics. It will all make sense while they are showing you, but at 10 p.m. when you’re backing into a site you’ve never been to before, you are going to want a cheat-sheet of what to turn off before you plug in, etc.
You are probably going to have to deal with “the blackwater” at some point. Don’t panic. It’s not that hard, and we actually read this article before we did it, even though our host had walked us through. (Don’t know what the blackwater is? Mwah ah ah. You will.) But make sure you pack some disposable gloves for this job.
Bring your sense of humor! You will hit your head. At least once. (I hit mine three times, twice on the cupboard above the stove and once on the loft). The toaster set off the fire alarm (but hey, a toaster when camping is such a luxury!). It’s an intimate space, you are going to hear each other do pretty much everything. It’s all part of the family bonding.
Don’t forget a road map. A real, paper map or Road Atlas, just in case you need to find your way around when your phone GPS won’t connect. It’s one thing to go off-grid when you’re in a car, it’s another thing when you’re trying to navigate a 30+ foot vehicle. Plus, you can have your kids do some navigating and call it a geography lesson.
Book ahead as much as possible: unlike car camping you need to be sure that where you are going can accommodate the rental you have, by length. And while you’re at it, make sure at least one of the sites has a “sanitation station” for the blackwater or you’ll be googling it furiously one afternoon. (Actually, RVShare has a search for that, too!)
Can you live and work and do school from an RV successfully? I think the answer is yes. Our little experiment worked out nicely. And you’ll learn a bunch of cool stuff along the way, and not just by subject. Travel can show kids resilience, going with the flow and the positive effects of spontaneity. We can’t wait to do it again, this time maybe for longer, and we might even convince grandma to come along!
Looking for a little inspiration to get through your week? We talked to seven local moms who are giving back in a big way. From providing toys and games to hospitalized children to growing and distributing produce to those in need, these women and their stories are giving us all the feels—and putting everything in perspective. Read on to meet these down-to-earth super moms and discover how you can get involved in some amazing causes.
Natalie Flores
Courtesy of subject
Founder of Nourish LA
As the founder of grassroots organization Nourish LA, Natalie Flores is helping to ensure people in her community have access to healthy food. Flores, a longtime urban farmer, began Nourish LA shortly after the pandemic began, when members of her Mar Vista community were losing their jobs and worrying about putting food on the table. Since April, Flores has rallied businesses (partnering with The Wood Cafe), farmers markets, and other local urban farmers to contribute to the cause. With a team of volunteers, she runs a food-giveaway drive-up on Sunday, and delivers free vegetables and seedlings (so others can start their own garden) to those in need, including at-risk individuals and single parent households.
When it comes to balancing motherhood and running Nourish LA, Flores says it can be crazy. Both she and her husband work full-time, but she fortunately has close friends and Grandma to help out watching her almost 3-year-old daughter. "My daughter knows throughout the week, Mama's gotta go to work," she says. "That could mean picking up food for our drive-up or having zoom meetings with various other organizations."
So how does she stay positive and energized when so many of us are feeling overwhelmed? "To see your tangible efforts create a positive affect in our neighborhoods and in the lives of others is a really incredible feeling," she says, adding that it helps her maintain perspective. "My complaints and hardships are nothing in comparison to my neighbors who are struggling to put food on the table for their families."
Get involved: Click here to learn about volunteering opportunities for both you and your kiddo with Nourish LA.
While lots of parents have been working at home since mid-March, Talitha Phillips, a mother of two, hasn't had that option. She's a labor and postpartum doula and the CEO of Claris Health, a non-profit women's clinic focusing on sexual health and pregnancy. "My days are long—sometimes 18-20 hours," she says. "As an essential business and medical clinic, we’ve been open throughout the pandemic."
In addition to leading the team at Claris Health as they navigate their way through the changing regulations and needs of the communities they serve, she's continued to work directly with moms-to-be whose "labor, delivery, and other plans have been completely thwarted" because of Covid.
Phillips is the first to admit that balancing all the duties of work and motherhood hasn't been easy. She does her best to keep her kids active and she brings them to work when she needs to do so. But she admits, "The honest truth is that my kids are also staying up way too late, sleeping in, and watching more TV than I would have ever previously allowed!"
And that's okay. "I feel like a success at this point is learning when to catch or dodge the balls that are thrown at me all day, finding creative and productive solutions, and trying to stay sane and hopeful in the midst of it all," she says. Hear, hear!
Get involved: In-person volunteer opportunities with Claris Health are currently limited, but there's still a chance to help with the center's Baby Store, where families in need can “shop” for baby necessities (including diapers, wipes, clothing, food, and equipment), as well as with #ClarisOnWheels, a mobile clinic that distributes food and hygiene kits in LA county. Click here for all the details.
Christen Peterson
Courtesy of Christen Peterson
Teacher & Childhood Cancer Warrior
In 2018, Christen Peterson got the news no parents ever want to hear: Her 11-year-old son had cancer in his brain. "It’s always somebody else’s child until it’s yours," says Peterson, a 7th grade teacher in Corona, CA. Cole was diagnosed with WNT medulloblastoma. In a way, he was lucky—this particular kind of medullablastoma, the rarest of four subgroups, has the best prognosis.
Cole underwent surgery at Children's Hospital of Los Angeles, and then Peterson and her son left for Memphis so Cole could be part of a clinical trial at St. Jude Children's Research Hospital in Memphis. "We had to pack up and leave California for six months," she says, while her husband stayed behind because of work. "The hardest part for Cole was being separated from his dog."
But Peterson's says that the team at St. Jude took care of them both. "They hold your hand through the whole process," she says. "I firmly believe St. Jude is the best place for kids to go for cancer treatment," she adds. (You can see a video of Cole's experience at St. Jude here. Note: Grab a tissue.)
After 30 rounds of low-dose radiation and four weeks of chemo, Peterson and Cole returned to California, but she was forever changed by her time at St. Jude. "When we came back, I had this drive; this need to fight," she says. "I was angry, angry at cancer, and I needed my voice to be heard."
She has given her voice to St. Jude, participating in campaigns and speaking engagement to help raise awareness of childhood cancer. "Childhood cancer only get 4 percent of all cancer funding—it's not enough," she says.
Today, Cole is in remission, though he still travels back to St. Jude every three months for scans, and Peterson continues to fight to raise awareness of childhood cancer. Recently, she and a group of fellow "cancer moms," as they refer to themselves, convinced the City of Corona, as well as her school district and fire department to "Go Gold" during September for Childhood Cancer Awareness Month.
"We realized the power of our voices," Peterson says. "And we decided to use that power to make a change."
Get involved: Check out Peterson's fundraising page and contribute to St. Jude and their efforts to cure childhood cancer.
Neferteri Plessy
Co-Founder of Single Mom Planet
Neferteri Plessy (third from left) knows firsthand the challenges of being a single mom. She had two young sons and her divorce rocked her world, as she struggled to balance the day-to-day obligations of motherhood with providing financially for her children following her divorce. Her own experience prompted her to research the effects of divorce and single motherhood. That's when she learned that the most disadvantaged group in the U.S. are single-mother families, 30 percent of which live below the poverty line.
To help other women like her, Plessy and Cole Patterson started Single Moms Planet. Their goal? To end the poverty cycle in single parent households and empower single moms and their children through financial literacy, family bonding activities, mentorship, family counseling and entrepreneurial training.
Plessy is quick to acknowledge that while she's the co-founder of Single Moms Planet, she shares the credit for the non-profit's work and success with other local mothers (pictured) who have given both time and money to the cause to make a difference.
Get involved: Find out how you can donate and fundraise for Single Moms Planet here.
Sharon Rubinstein-Litwak
Founder and Executive Director of The Oscar Litwak Foundation
To honor the memory of her son—4 year-old Oscar Litwak who died from cancer—Sharon Rubinstein-Litwak founded the The Oscar Litwak Foundation in 2003. The foundation's mission: to bring the joy of play to hospitalized children. Since then, the non-profit has provided more than 130 Mobile Playrooms (filled with toys, books, games, arts and crafts and more) to hospitals and pediatric facilities around the country.
The pandemic has only increased Rubinstein-Litwak's commitment to the cause. "Hospitalized children right now are more isolated than ever," she says. "They are only allowed one visitor and need to stay mainly in their rooms, so donations like ours help them pass their time." She adds that they had to "adapt and modify some of [their] donations to comply with new hospital rules and precautions." (Recently, they assembled more than 170 individual "distraction bags" to be delivered to hospitalized children.)
A mother of three girls (ages 17, 14 and 12), Rubinstein-Litwak has also broadened the work of the foundation in response to Covid. "We felt there were other things we could do, so we donated over 3000 meals to hospitals workers and nursing home staff, as well as 10 iPads to the Jewish Home for the Aging, so residents could communicate with their families."
With her daughters learning remotely now and everyone home together, she tells us that it's given her an opportunity get them more involved in her work. "They have stepped up to the plate and helped me organize and deliver meals and put together the distraction bags that we donate to the hospitals," she says.
Get involved: The Oscar Litwak Foundation relies on volunteers for everything from preparing Mobile Playrooms to assisting with social media. Click here to learn more.
Here's a number that might shock you: The average American throws away 70 pounds of clothes every year, much of which ends up in landfills. What's more, textile mills generate a fifth of the world's industrial water pollution and use 20,000 chemicals, many of them carcinogenic, to make clothes, according to the Natural Resources Defense Council.
Those statistics motivated Nicole Robertson to start Swap Society, an online clothing swap for women and kids. The mother of two wanted to offer an alternative to "fast fashion," and create a way to swap that was fun, easy, affordable and sustainable.
Since Swap Society launched, members of the online marketplace have swapped over 20 thousand garments. Robertson also practices what she preaches. The self-proclaimed sustainable fashion advocate stopped buying “new” clothes 10 years ago.
To help on a broader level, Robertson tells us that Swap Society has "partnered with the nonprofits Remake and Fashion Revolution, working toward an ethical and sustainable fashion industry."
Get involved: Clean out your closet (and your kiddo's closet) to get started swapping with Swap Society. Learn more here.
Samantha Barnes
Founder of Raddish Kids
Based in Redondo Beach, Samantha Barnes is the founder of Raddish Kids, a culinary subscription kit that teaches kids to cook (while reinforcing math, science and reading skills too!).
When Covid forced schools to close in March, Barnes and her Raddish team immediately set to work to support parents with immersive, learning activities. Under Barnes's leadership, the company gave away 50,000 free Raddish kits (equivalent to $1.2 million in sales) to families nationwide, as well as created a free online resource for new homeschooling parents.
While running her business and homeschooling her own children, she also made it a priority to host multiple virtual cook-alongs weekly for two months—with her children—to educate and engage kids, and created a fundraiser with 100 percent of the proceeds going to World Central Kitchen (WKC) to feed those in need, donating more than $10,000. "Through their relief efforts across the world, WCK has consistently demonstrated an ability to efficiently mobilize chefs, strengthen economies, and feed those in need at a local level, all while making global change," Barnes tells us.
Asked what motivates and inspires her work, Barnes tells us, "I'm motivated to provide a strong foundation for my own kids -- to model the ups and downs of running a business, to create a home filled with love and empathy, and to inspire them to be curious, independent thinkers and agents of change."
Get involved: Discover Raddish's Kitchen Classroom offerings, including easy recipes for kids, homeschool lesson plans and more. Click here for volunteering opportunities with World Central Kitchen.
