ML Interest Tag: family-membership

‘Tis the Season for Science at Pacific Science Center

by Jeff Totey

If you feel like the days leading up Christmas are moving at warp speed, we can relate. But for kids, the holidays feel like they’re still five years away. If your kid crew is having a hard time controlling their excitement and cabin fever is already starting to set in, consider giving everyone a time out…of the house, with a visit to the Pacific Science Center. It may be just what everyone needs for a short-term distraction. The best part? PSC has tons of fun, festive and educational activities planned this month to keep little minds active and entertained. Read on for the deets.

photo: Pacific Science Center

Festive Décor & Holiday-Themed Activities 
This month, the Pacific Science Center has not only decked its halls, but its entire 7.1 acre campus with festive décor, including bright red poinsettias where you can learn the science behind these plants. See the power of liquid nitrogen up close at the Super Cold Live Science Stage Show or make a stop at the Tinker Tank to learn how to create your own pop-up Christmas cards. Over at the Laserium, you can groove to holiday tunes while gazing at a spectrum of laser lights during the Laser Winter Magic holiday presentation. And for curious little minds, winter-themed story times will delight tykes of all ages.

photo: Pacific Science Center

Go on a Virtual Vacation
Stop by the virtual reality micro-theater to explore other worlds without having to leave your seat. Take a trip to the stars and learn the science of the winter solstice at the Science on a Sphere and gaze at the night sky in the Planetarium. Psst…beginning on Dec. 15, you can take a trip to the Canadian Rockies via the IMAX theater to see Rocky Mountain Express.

Christmas Critters
While the weather outside might be frightful, you can warm up in the amazing and beautiful Tropical Butterfly House where the butterflies will be pretending to be ornaments and decorating various trees and plants. While you’re there, be sure to check out the iguana, box turtle and naked mole rats, because nothing says Christmas like naked mole rats. (Maybe this year someone will knit those guys some winter sweaters for Christmas.)

photo: Pacific Science Center

Candy Cane Chemistry
If you’re looking for some extra time to shop for presents for you-know-who, you might want to take advantage of PSC’s Parent’s Day Out event happening on Sat., Dec. 16 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The Candy Cane Chemistry event will take kids through a series of “pepperminty experiments” that test which liquids dissolved candy canes the best. Kids will also learn why sugar gives them energy, watch an IMAX documentary on the subject and, of course, indulge in some sweet treats! Cost is $55/child or $45 for PSC members.

Snowball Central
To add to the fun this season, a brand new winter wonderland will be unveiled to the public beginning on Mon., Dec. 18 where a snow machine will be pumping out the fluffy stuff at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. each day through January 31. Challenge friends to a “snowball fight” where no one gets hurt or build your own igloos without freezing your hands off.

photo: Pacific Science Center

Fill Those Stockings With Science
The PSC gift shop features all kinds of science-y trinkets and toys for stocking stuffing. And many are items that you can’t really find anywhere else like MadMatter Play Doh, Insta-Snow Powder, an all-season snowman, dinosaur-shaped cookie cutters and fair trade ornaments, plus solar print kits, RC Mini Mips, science lab sets, science-themed tea infusers and so much more. Also, memberships to the PSC make great gifts and there is no worrying about getting the right size or color.

Good to Know:
‘Tis the Season for Science runs through December 31, 2017 from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on weekdays and 10 a.m.-6 p.m. on weekends. Activities and experiences vary by day. Check the website for more info.

Pacific Science Center
200 Second Ave. N.
Seattle, Wa 98109
206-443-2001
Online: pacificsciencecenter.org

Admission: $21.95/Adults; $19.95/Seniors (65 & older); $15.95/Youth (6-15); $11.95/Child (3-5); 2 & under Free

Membership: A family membership is $139/year and covers two named adults and up to six named youth (ages 3-18). It also includes eight guest passes and 15 documentary IMAX movie passes.

Do you plan to visit the Pacific Science Center this month? What’s your family’s favorite exhibit? Tell us in the comments below. 

— Jeffrey Totey

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No Burns, No Burn Out: 6 Indoor Playgrounds with Drop Off Childcare

by rtandreakagey

School may be out for summer but your work as master-of-all-things-fun has just begun. No need to panic! We know that sometimes you need a break; both to work and to relax. Go ahead and schedule that important meeting or much needed “me” time—we’ve got you covered. Check out our list of LA’s best indoor play places that offer drop-off sitter services for a little fun out of the sun for them, and a break for you.

photo: Shahrzad Warkentin

WeVillage: ‘Cuz it Takes a Village
Direct from Portland, this new Sherman Oaks child care center gets that parenting isn’t easy and that it takes —well, you know—to help your kids thrive. Catering to children from 6 weeks to 14  years old, WeVillage has what it takes to keep your mini-socialites and wallflowers alike entertained on an as-needed basis. Unlike other child care centers, WeVillage is flexible and works with your schedule. They’re open 6 days a week, with hours ranging from as early as 7:30 a.m. to as late as 11:30 p.m. on weekends, leaving you with no more missing-date-night excuses. Whether you just need a sitter for a morning, full day or unexpected week, they’ll be able to accommodate your needs and even keep your hungry villagers fed so you don’t have to worry about a thing. Reservations are required and can be made online. Prices vary based on age and can range anywhere from $14-$22/hour with discounts available for longer blocks. A monthly ($25/month) or annual ($175) membership fee is required, but you can try your first hourly visit before making a commitment.

13335 Ventura Blvd.
Sherman Oaks
818-233-8218
Online: wevillage.com/centers/los-angeles

photo: Pamper & Play

Pamper & Play: Sounds More Fun than “Work & Play”
Enjoy some oh-so-deserved R&R while your tykes run others ragged at this West LA work and play space. For $12-$15/hour you can sign your little buddy up for a group supervised play session while you take a break in the comfy parent lounge. No time for breaks? No problem. Use this tranquil adults only space to catch up on your email and enjoy the free WiFi and complimentary coffee while the experienced staff entertains your brood. Services are offered to tots as young as 8 months and up to 8 years old. If your kiddo needs a little extra TLC, consider the personal concierge playtime option that offers one-on-one supervision for $25/hour. Walk-Ins are welcomed during the week and on some weekends, but check their calendar to ensure you won’t be turned away due to a special event. Caregivers must remain on the premises while children play so make the most out of your designated time-out and recharge.

2279 Westwood Blvd.
Westwood
310-441-0797
Online: pamperplay.com

photo: Snooknuk via Facebook

Snooknuk: You Found Your Nook
Get creative with your childcare needs this summer and book your little performers a colorful play experience at Snooknuk Arts & Indoor Play Cafe. Whether a singer, a dancer or just a mess-maker, any kid can have a blast at this Larchmont local spot for creative cuties. Little Stars as young as 17 months can enjoy a variety of arts classes offered at this magical locale, but anyone from as young as crawlers to 10 years old is welcomed to enjoy the play area. Supervised play is available every weekday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. for $15/hour per child (toddlers & up). Parents are allowed to leave the premises during the supervised play visit, but they ask that you leave a deposit upfront of half of the cost of your booked session.

506 N. Larchmont Blvd.
Mid-City
323-498-5258
Online: snooknuk.com

photo: Kidspark Northridge via Facebook

Kidspark: All Day Help is Here
If your little movers and shakers need a wide open space to roam free, look no further than Kidspark Northridge. This 4,000 square foot facility is well staffed with experienced care givers that are guaranteed to show your rambunctious rugrats from 2-12 years old a good time. Kidspark offers hourly and daily rates and you can use them as a go-to kid-free option for as little or as much as you need, up to 20 hours per week and 10 hours a day. They have plenty of staff on hand to accommodate those last minute emergencies but it is a first come first serve facility, so best to call ahead or get an early start to ensure they’re not at capacity. $8/hour for the first sibling, add $5 for the second and an additional $3/hr for the third. Or go the daily rate at $48/day for one child and $78 for two siblings. A $25 annual family membership is required. Find them on Facebook or Yelp for a discounted membership rate.

9056 Tampa Ave.
Northridge
Online: kidspark.com

                                                                                     photo: Pint Size kids via Facebook

Pint Size Kids: Anyone Potty Trained Can Stay and Play
Your mini noise makers may be tiny in stature but there’s no mistaking that when it comes to energy they have some mighty big needs. Give yourself a break from all things mom and bring your little divas to Pint Size Kids for an hour or three while you take in some shopping, sipping or just enjoying of the peace and quiet. With one weeks notice via email or phone call, you can reserve a spot for your kiddo to make-believe their little hearts out at this cute and interactive play space where children are encouraged to use their imagination. Whether your playtime expert gravitates towards the grocery store, medical center, house or workshop, your imagineers are expected to work hard at playing. Drop off services are best for potty trained children ages 2 years old & up. The rates are $20 for the first hour and $12 for each additional hour per child up to 3 hours. Remember, this one isn’t a spur of the moment drop by, and prior notice of one week is required for drop off services.

13323 Ventura Blvd.
Sherman Oaks
310-339-7452
Online: pintsizekids.com

photo: We Rock the Spectrum

We Rock the Spectrum: This Spot Rocks For Everyone
If there’s one things kids of all shapes, sizes and needs know how to do it’s to have fun! The kind and caring staff at We Rock the Spectrum are there to make sure that when mom and dad need some time away, all the littles get to play. Open to kids with all abilities, this is a play place that even your most sensitive of rock stars won’t want to leave. Drop off child care is available starting at $12/hour and arrangements can be made for One-to-One Attendant care as well, based on individual needs. Some locations also limit the amount of time families without special-needs children are allowed to use their drop-off care services so check your location’s website before visiting.

We Rock the Spectrum has multiple locations throughout the LA area; check the website for locations and hours.
Online: werockthespectrumkidsgym.com/We Rock the Spectrum

What do you do when you need some alone time, and your kids just wanna have fun?

—Andrea Conway Kagey

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NYC Members-Only Play Spaces: An Investigation

by rtkimsunshine

Broadly speaking, there are two kinds of kids’ play spaces in New York City: those open to all, and members-only spots. The latter frequently carry a hefty price of admission, but surely, you get some big perks for shelling out the big bucks— right? We looked into the most established and most popular members-only kids clubs and broke down what you pay, how the kids can play and what, exactly, makes each one special. Now it’s your turn to decide if membership truly has its privileges.

(A note: many of the businesses we profiled are chains, and if so we picked a representative spot in NYC; rates and services or facilities may vary from location to location.)

photo: via Playgarden Facebook page

Playgarden
This Tribeca all-things-kids resource is home to an early education program, classes such as sports, hip-hop, tap, music and ballet, as well as a 4,000-square-foot indoor playground outfitted with slides, ball pits, tunnels, climbing structures and bike rides. Local parenting support groups meet here, as does date night option Project Playdate. Plus, they do birthday parties and summer camps.

Who it’s for: Kids six months to 5 years old

Cost: Membership is available on a seasonal or annual basis. An annual membership ($3,000) gets you one weekly class and unlimited time in the play space, plus 45 guest passes; you get get an annual membership for just the play space for $2,500, which also includes 45 guest passes. Seasonally, you need to buy a class (starting at $750/class) to buy buy play space access, which ranges from $450-$75 per season.) A shortened winter season pass for a class and playground access is $650.

Membership Details: Membership gives you unlimited access to the play space, as well as five guest passes per session. Additionally, family play on weekends from 1 – 4:30 p.m. is open to siblings if one child is enrolled in a class. Members also get a 10 % discount on birthday parties.

Why people love it: The indoor playground is Manhattan’s largest indoor play space and it’s open seven days a week year-round. Also, germaphobes, rejoice!: the play space is cleaned three times a day, and the play equipment is rearranged every month to create a new play environment so kids don’t get bored.

The vibe: Bright, modern, cheerful and clean, with a community feel — but the service the residents of a tony ‘hood like Tribeca expect.

95 Franklin St.
Tribeca
212-965-9717
Online: playgardennyc.com

 

photo: Kidville

Kidville
Kidville is an international chain, so there are many of them, but don’t let that stop you from checking out this go-to for many moms, dads, nannies and other caregivers looking for a fun spot for their charges. Offering gym, music, dance, art, cooking and enrichment classes, they also have a preschool alternative program, camps, parenting seminars and open play sessions.

Who it’s for: the 0-6 set

Cost: At the Upper East Side location, classes start at $725 for 45 minute classes for the full semester of 16 weeks; hour-long classes are $775. Signing up for one class makes you eligible for Silver Membership, and has a registration fee of $76.21. Camp and Spring/ Summer Semesters are 16 weeks long.  Camp is sold in 2, 8, 12 or 16 week sessions.

Membership details: Benefits include one indoor play pass and discounts at Kidville boutiques and cafés, and on Kidville birthday parties. You can up your membership to a higher level (which means more money, but also more benefits) from $365/year.  There are so many details to the many membership options and their benefits, we suggest you read them here: http://www.kidville.com/eastside/about-kidville/membership-benefits

Why people love it: With locations uptown, downtown, Brooklyn and beyond, there’s bound to be one near you. Also, it’s neat and clean, the teachers are into being there, and therefore, when you see your kid smiling, you’ll be glad you’re there too.  The valet stroller parking is an added bonus.

The Vibe: A place for kids to learn, play and grow, Kidville is welcoming from the moment you stroll in and see the boutique with kiddie fashions, and the café with kid-friendly snacks. You get the sense that the folks here have thought about all the needs of all kids under age six, be they babies, toddlers or older — as well as their parents. Interested? You can register for a free trial class.

Kidville
163 East 84th St.
Upper East Side
212-772-8435
Online: kidville.com/eastside

photo: apple seeds

apple seeds
This indoor play space functions a lot like a club for adults. You can become a member to the indoor playground, and/or pay and take classes in everything from art, sports and music to dance, cooking, science and languages. Being a member gives you access to discounts, member perks and member events, and there are two types of membership options.  The more you pay, the more benefits and perks you get, like discounts on haircuts, classes and birthdays.

Who it’s for: kids 0-5 years old.

Cost: A “Red Apple” membership is $124/month plus tax and “Green Apple” level is $156/month plus tax.  All new members will receive a $100 class voucher for future class purchases (in addition to the member discount).

Why people love it: With a gradual separation program for children 2-3 and a summer camp,  you feel like you and your child can grow with this place.  There is also an upper west side location and a peter cooper village locale. Birthday parties are a big hit here, and if your child isn’t in the mood to use the playground, there are many ways to entertain them in the toy/book store and hair salon.

The Vibe: Bright and cheery with colorful decor, appleseeds is a modern play space and the playground looks like an updated children’s museum, complete with mini pretend deli, block building area and climbing toys.

10 West 25th St.
Chelsea
212-792-7590

200 West End Ave. (at 69th St.)
Upper West Side
212-792-7591

Stuyvesant Town
Gramercy
212-792-7590

Online: appleseedsplay.com

photo: Citibabes

Citibabes
The cultural opportunities run the gamut here, with class offerings in cooking, art, dance, music and movement, as well as languages, science and even private music instruction.  There’s a pre-school program, a summer camp and a 1,500-square-foot playground and gym for open play.

Who it’s for: Children 0-10

Cost: $1,250 annually for a family membership, which includes 10 guest passes,  one eight-week enrichment class, complimentary storytimes, concerts, and parent seminars monthly and 10 complimentary coffees at their cafe. Semester-long classes start at $625 per semester.

Why people love it: Unlike many other play spaces, Citibabes offers group fitness classes for grown-ups. That’s right: personal training, parenting seminars and a Bari Studio and Junior’s Fresh cafe serves locally- sourced, farm fresh meals and snacks. A major plus: unlike many other clubs, you can drop by for free play at any time during hours of operation — not just small windows of time that always seem to fall during nap or meal time.

The Vibe: With a gym and classes for both kids and adults, this facility brings new meaning to the term ‘family membership.’ The open feeling and large rooms are a fresh respite from the cramped feeling of many downtown offerings. (Note that birthdays and camp are open to non-members.)

52 Mercer Street, 3rd Fl.
SoHo
212-334-5440
Online: citibabes.com

photo: Gymboree Play & Music

Gymboree Play & Music
This play space staple has been around for decades, and with over 500 locations in over 30 countries, the folks at Gymboree have earned the self-proclaimed title of “global leader in classes for kids”.  Yes, there are locations throughout the world, but NYC-area outposts can be found in Bayside, Park Slope, Forest Hills and Scarsdale.

Who it’s for: Kids 0-5

Cost: New Member Initiation Fee: $45.00 plus cost of classes, but membership has its benefits, with discount coupons to Janie and Jack, Gymboree and Crazy 8, as well as free open gym times and access to exclusive shopping events throughout the year

Why people love it: Not only are there music, gym and art classes, but “family fun” classes offer the chance to bring siblings into the same class, for multi-age learning. In addition, the folks at Gymboree take safe play seriously, and their equipment was designed by a nationally-respected playground designer with over 30 years of experience.

The Vibe: Old-school atmosphere mixed with traditional classic fun, this place knows what works, and is sticking with it.

208-32 Cross Island Pkwy.
Bayside
866-477-3700
Online: gymboreeclasses.com

What’s your experience with members-only kids’ clubs? Chime in with a comment below!

— Kim Sunshine

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Give the Gift of Play: Top Memberships for Year-Round Fun

by Lenya McGrath

This year, give the gift (to yourself or others) that keeps on giving long after the holidays are over. When you’re looking for a fun adventure outside the local park, these awesome family memberships to local indoor play spaces and exploration wonderlands are your ticket to a guaranteed good-time. Click through the slideshow to take a peek at gifts that keep on giving all year in San Diego.

Birch Aquarium at Scripps

This lesser-known jewel of entertainment at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography is totally mind-blowing. Incredible seahorses, mesmerizing sharks and beautiful fish of all sizes will delight little explorers and parents alike at Birch Aquarium in La Jolla.

Cost: $89 for a year-round family membership for two adults and two kids (ages 3-17)

Online: aquarium.ucsd.edu

Photo credit: Leah Singer

Will you gift one of these memberships to your family or friends? Tell us which one you’ll pick below!

— Lenya McGrath and Leah R. Singer

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LC Kids Launches with Free Spring Fling

by Mimi O'Connor

Even for the most savvy New York parent, Lincoln Center can be kind of overwhelming. It’s that massive (16 acre), white marble (actually, it’s a limestone known as Travertine) complex on the west side where all types of art — frequently broadcast on PBS — happens. Opera, ballet, film, classical and jazz music concerts, and even swing dancing goes down there, and you’re pretty sure it’s got stuff your kid would like — but how are you supposed to navigate all that culture? The answer: the new and and improved family-friendly program from Lincoln Center, LC Kids.

photo: Lincoln Center

Introducing LC kids

While the name LC Kids is not new — previously, it has operated as a family membership with rates starting at $500 — the offerings, accessibility, and structure of the new Lincoln Center family-friendly program are. The revamped LC Kids includes a new slate of programming for families, a new web site, and more affordable membership rates.

Shows Just for Kids

LC Kids will be kicking off with a boffo Spring Fling celebration on May 9 (more on that later), but the new kids programming has already started rolling out. April brought the one man show “Sleeping Beauty with David Gonzalez” and a Greatest Hits show from musical sketch comedy group the Story Pirates. Upcoming events include a performance by the R&B-influenced musicians from Chad H’Sao Oria,  and a show from storyteller and singer Charlotte Blake Alston.

photo: Lincoln Center

New Membership Levels

The new LC Kids will introduce a new pricing structure for memberships, including a level that’s free. All members will receive a subscription to the monthly LC Kids eNewsletter, invitations to LC Kids events, discounts on Lincoln Center tours and special offers for family-friendly performances in NYC. Benefits of paying memberships, which start at $125, vary, but include priority access to tickets, discounts on shows across campus and access to exclusive kid-friendly events. (For the big bucks, perks include meet and greets with performers, backstage tours, access to last-minute seats and sold out shows, and more.)

photo: Christine and Hagen Graf via Flickr

A New Web Site

The revamped LC Kids will now also have its own dedicated web site at kids.lincolncenter.org, featuring all of the family-friendly programming happening throughout the Lincoln Center campus. This will include not only the newly-developed roster of LC Kids programming, but events, shows and performances from the companies in residence such as The Metropolitan Opera, the New York City Ballet, the New York Philharmonic and Jazz at Lincoln Center. (An example: “Bugs Bunny at the Symphony” with the New York Philharmonic on May 14-16.)

photo: Lincoln Center

The Big Kickoff

LC Kids officially launches on May 9, and Lincoln Center is celebrating with Spring Fling, a free day of performances, crafts and activities across the plazas of Lincoln Center from 11 a.m. -2 p.m. Highlights include a 45-minute singalong with Dan Zanes at the Revson Fountain, instrument tryouts with the New York Philharmonic, a scavenger hunt, and clowns from the Big Apple Circus. Additionally, an interactive Dance-Along Story Time event with Angelina Ballerina and author Katharine Holabird will take place in the David Rubenstein Atrium, and kids will be invited to a dance lesson under the tent in Damrosh Park. A full schedule of events for the day can be found here.

Lincoln Center’s LC Kids
Online: kids.lincolncenter.org

Have you been to Lincoln Center with your kids? What did you see? Tell us in the comments below!

—Mimi O’Connor

 

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6 Places That Teach Kids How to Care For Mother Earth

by Cherie Gough

Every day is Earth Day, a chance to teach our kids to care for the planet and help them see the interconnectedness we share. Even if you’re not headed out to an Earth Day celebration this month, we’ve rounded up some cool places to visit any day of the year. Click through the slideshow to check out our favorite spots to learn the importance of caring for the earth.

Take the Water Conservation Challenge

At the Children's Discovery Museum in Escondido the Discovery Garden is a bright, cheery place for hands-on exploration that teaches kids about gardening, complete with vegetable and pollinator gardens, composting and worms, and a chicken coop. In the Be Water Wise exhibit little ones meander outdoors and check out an aquaponics garden with fish, a watershed landscape made with Legos that they can manipulate to see the effects on the flow of water. With lots of hands-on discovery, kiddos are sure to remember to turn off the tap while brushing teeth.   

The month, the museum is excited to invite families to take its new Be Water Wise Challenge. Families take a water use survey and then receive resources to create their plan to save water. Participants are eligible to win an annual family membership to the museum!

Don't Miss: KPBS will host a water wise workshop and puppet show with the Lorax on April 11 from 10 a.m. - 12p.m.

320 N Broadway
Escondido, CA 92025
760-233-7755
Online: sdcdm.org

Photo Courtesy of Children's Discovery Museum

How do you celebrate Mother Earth? Give us some ideas in the Comments below!

— Cherie Gough

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Use Your Noggin: 7 Brain-Stimulating Outings for Kids

by Allison Sutcliffe

For all those curious cuties who keep their parents working overtime exploring interesting subjects and answering endless questions, we’ve rounded up a slew of stimulating experiences to keep those big brains busy (and maybe even give you a break). So bust out those mini pocket protectors, it’s time to kick that grey matter into high gear at these brain-stimulating events and classes that’ll leave you and your Littles wanting more. It’s time to get your geek on!

photo: Chess4Life 

Explore Engineering
The Seattle Public Library is pulling out all the stops in recognition of National Engineers Week (what, you didn’t know it was a thing?). In fact, they’ve expanded the celebration beyond the last week in February to include the whole month, and teamed up with the Pacific Science Center to host lots of cool classes that teach engineering concepts to the littlest designers. The party kicks off with a sweet lesson in pulleys, weights and strings, for kids 6 and up. Then continues on throughout the month giving budding scientists a chance to play with slime, test out the floatability of boats, and even participate in a classic egg drop that will bring back memories of your own school days (shhh… no hints allowed). Each class runs about an hour and most meet on the weekends or early evenings, so families can geek out together. Check out the complete list of classes below for maximum brain engagement.

photo: Seattle Public Library 

Good to know: Many of the classes require registration, so be sure to call the hosting branch ahead of time to save a spot!

Classes:
Slime!: Feb. 17, 2 p.m.-3 p.m. at the Montlake Branch; Feb. 22, 2 p.m.-3 p.m. at the Greenwood Branch; Feb. 26, 3:30 p.m.-4:30 p.m. at the Queen Anne Branch; Feb. 28, 3 p.m.-4 p.m. at the Beacon Hill Branch; Mar. 1, 3 p.m.-4 p.m. at the Magnolia Branch

Egg Drop Rescue: Feb. 21, 11 a.m.-12 p.m. at the Capitol Hill Branch

Catapult Challenge: Feb. 21, 1:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m. at the Green Lake Branch; Feb. 21, 4 p.m.-5 p.m. at the Ballard Branch; Feb. 26, 4 p.m.-5 p.m. at the High Point Branch

Robot Challenge: Feb. 21, 11 a.m.-noon at the Lake City Branch; Feb. 21, 1:30 p.m.-2:30 p.m. at the Greenwood Branch; Feb. 21, 4 p.m.-5 p.m. at the Magnolia Branch; Feb. 23, 4:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m. at the Northeast Branch; Feb. 26, 4 p.m.-5 p.m. at the West Seattle Branch; Mar. 1, 2:30 p.m.-3:30 p.m. at the Rainier Beach Branch

See-Saw Savvy: Feb. 27, 4 p.m.-5 p.m. at the Southwest Branch

Boats Afloat: Mar. 7, 2 p.m.-3 p.m. at the Delridge Branch

Seattle Public Library
206-386-43636
Online: www.spl.org

Ages: 4 & up, depending on class
Cost: Free

Game like a Grandmaster
Whether your little smarty pants is a chess neophyte or a grandmaster wannabe, testing out strategies and playing skills at a tournament with Chess4Life is the perfect way to foster a little competition, while learning character-building skills, like perseverance and gamesmanship. Novices can get a taste of the game against similarly-skilled opponents at the Saturday Beginner Tournaments, held almost monthly (be sure to check the online schedule first) at Chess4Life centers around the Eastside, Bothell and Renton. And those with a little to a lot of playing experience will love showing their chops at the Friday Night Quads tournaments (held at the various center locations), where experienced players of all levels go head-to-head playing in three rounds of this timeless game. Be sure to register in advance for this one. Our favorite part? That Chess4Life emphasizes it’s all in how you play the game, focusing tournament play on positive and fun outcomes, even if you lose. That and there’s trophies. Check mate!

photo: Chess4Life

Good to know: For Littles who know that more chess means good chess, Chess4Life offers weekly class options too. After a quick assessment, you can drop in ($25) to test out the class and get registered if it’s right for you.

Chess4Life
12729 Northrup Way, Suite 15
Bellevue, Wa 98005
425-283-0549
Online: chess4life.com

Date and Time: Fri.; 7 p.m. for Friday Night Quads; Sat., Beginner Tournament times vary by location.
Cost: $20 & up, depending on tournament type

Get Crafty!
Go for the art, stay for the crafts on Saturdays at the Bellevue Arts Museum. This weekly drop-in program is a spectacular way to introduce petite Picassos to the inspiring works on display at BAM. But it can also stand on its own. Each Saturday’s crafty activity changes based on season and what’s on display at the museum, because each craft ties into some experience families will find inside, if they dare to venture beyond the first floor and explore the intriguing exhibits within (yes, please!). Expect to spend about 30 minutes creating the day’s project, but more time is definitely allowed for kids who want just can’t seem to get enough. And helping hands are on hand if parents get stuck or lay no claim to the artistic gene carried by their mini artist. Bottom line: It’s a messy good time for families to spend together.

photo: Emilie Smith

Good to know: If you have an absolute blast at the Get Crafty time, be sure to mark your calendar for the BAM KIDSfair, on the books for July 24-26, where kids can experience bigger, better (and possibly badder) of the same.

Bellevue Arts Museum
510 Bellevue Way N.E.
Bellevue, Wa 98004
425-519-0770
Online: bellevuearts.org

Ages: 4-12
Dates & Time: Sat., 1 p.m.-3 p.m.
Cost: $2/child; $4/child after Feb. 20

Gaze at the Stars
Get ready to boldly go… to a monthly star party hosted by the Seattle Astronomical Society at Green Lake in Seattle or Paramount Park in Shoreline. These free, open-to-the-public parties are a great way to turn some of those out-of-this-world questions into real life experiences for little stargazers and future astronauts. Each party is scheduled for the Saturday closest to the first quarter moon (check the online schedule to make it simple–hint, the next one’s February 28), and is an opportunity for volunteer astronomers and enthusiasts to share their knowledge with astronomy novices of all ages. SAS volunteers provide telescopes and come equipped with a wealth of knowledge to tap into. So queue up the questions for this one! Remember to dress for the weather, especially during these cooler, wetter winter months, and bring a sense of adventure with you. It’s out of this world!

photo: Sean Chin via Flickr

Good to know: This time of year, it’s especially important to check the SAS website before heading out to a star party, as grey skies and clouds make for poor visibility and parties do get cancelled when the weather’s bad.

Green Lake
7201 E. Greenlake Dr. N.
Seattle, Wa 98115

Paramount Park
946 N.E. 147th St.
Shoreline, Wa 98155

Seattle Astronomical Society
When: Viewing times vary based on the month and season
Online: seattleastro.org/news_and_events/star_parties

Get a Backstage Pass
What kid doesn’t love getting a behind-the-scenes look at, well, basically anything. After all, figuring out how things work is forever fascinating when you’re a half pint. That’s why the Paramount Theatre’s free backstage tours appeal to little drama kings or queens and curious kiddos equally. The tour meets at the corner of 9th and Pine St. on the first Saturday of the month, and puts a whole new spin on the “theater experience” for families. During the 90-minute guided tour, you’ll get to check out the player piano, hear an engaging demo on the Wurlitzer, peek your head into dressing rooms and even wander the basement of this historic building. Top it all off with a trip to the theater library that’s bursting with mesmerizing memorabilia, and you’ve got a whole new set of brain cells to call your own. Expect about 20 people in each tour group, lead by very knowledgeable volunteers, who can answer every question your little smarty pants throws at them (theater related or otherwise). Bravo!

photo: Allison Sutcliffe

Good to know: Expect to climb up and around all four floors of the Paramount building on this tour. That means strollers are a no-no, so plan to strap kids on or piggyback them if their little legs wear out during the tour.

Paramount Theatre
911 Pine St.
Seattle, Wa 98101
206-682-1414
Online: stgpresents.org/paramount

Dates & Times: First Saturday of the month, 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m.
Cost: Free

Reach New Heights
Aspiring architects will jump at the chance to design and build their own creations at the Seattle Architecture Foundation’s monthly family build workshops. Each workshop introduces kidlets to architectural examples that provide a framework for that day’s project, followed by time to construct your own creation, using familiar materials like pre-cut cardboard shapes, construction paper and wood. As families work to bring their project to life, designers walk around giving feedback and asking questions like Tim Gunn, a la Project Runway style, engaging budding builders in some real-world “design thinking.” So have your thinking caps at the ready! The munchkins love creating, but there’s something in this for parents too. Getting to work together with your mini me to create something new is always a blast! February’s workshop topic looks to the future, as families design a city in the year 3000. In March, plan to bring some green spaces to the urban environs. A building we will go!

photo: Seattle Architecture Foundation

Good to know: Pack a sack lunch for your crew to enjoy during the break. Brain fuel is a must on this creative endeavor.

Seattle Architecture Foundation
Rainier Square
1333 5th Ave., 3rd Floor
Seattle, Wa 98101
206-667-9814
Online: seattlearchitecture.org

Ages: 6-10
Dates & Times: Feb. 21 & Mar. 21, 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Cost: $20/workshop; $15/workshop with an SAF Family membership

Hear Spellbinding Stories
What happens when storytellers from the Seattle Children’s Theater team up with art educators at the Frye Museum? Magic of course! Take your brainy sidekick to witness this perfect pairing on the first Friday of the month in the Frye Galleries. The storytelling talents of local actors will captivate little listeners, as they breathe life into fanciful stories, before handing the crew off. From there, mini learners can paint, sculpt and draw their way through the morning, getting messy and making connections between what they heard and what they’re creating. And who doesn’t love a little preschool learning disguised as fun? We do! When all’s said and done, don’t forget to head into the museum for some extended viewing, complete with wide-eyed “oohs” and “ahhs” from your sidekick. What an art-astic way to end your week!

photo: Lou Daprile

Good to know: Register for just the craft or both activities online beforehand, as seating and craft supplies are limited. But there’s no limit to storytelling time.

Frye Art Museum
704 Terry Ave.
Seattle, Wa 98104
206-622-9250
Online: fryemuseum.org

Ages: 3-5
Date & Time: First Fri. of the month; 10:30 a.m.-11 a.m. (storytelling), 11:15 a.m.-11:45 a.m. (art)
Cost: Free 

Where do you like to hang out with your brainy kiddo? Share your favorite spot in a comment below. 

— Allison Sutcliffe

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ReTreasure: Burien’s Newest Recycled Art Studio

by Jenifer Castillo

If you’ve been looking for a place where you can roll up your sleeves and put all those hours spent on Pinterest to good use, look no further than ReTreasure. This newly-opened, repurposed art studio in Burien welcomes all levels of creativity (or lack thereof). And with open studio hours, group events, toddler pricing and birthday party packages, ReTreasure has something for everyone. It’s time to turn one man’s junk into another’s creative treasure.

Misfit to Masterpiece
ReTreasure focuses on turning recycled goods into art projects of all kinds. Kids, and adults, can select from an enormous stash of recycled pieces, including (but definitely not limited to) cardboard, bottle caps, egg crates, circuit boards, fabric, CDs (think recycled Boys II Men CDs… honestly, who would want to separate from gold like that?) and lots of buttons. In fact, there are so many odds and ends of creative materials, the project outcomes are virtually endless.

Your pint-sized Monet can pair these non-traditional items with run-of-the-mill art materials (think glue, glitter and paint) to create a one-of-a-kind masterpiece; while learning the all important lesson that recycling your materials can help the environment and stir your creative juices. The ReTreasure experience will encourage your tot to look at old items in different ways and determine how to give them a second life.

photo: Brighid Murphy/Firelily Photography 

Need Some Guidance?
ReTreasure’s owner, curator and creative instigator, Yon Flora, is on hand to offer project inspirations, guidance and to assist in the creative process when needed. Budding Picassos will quickly connect with Yon, a former teacher, and learn that she knows where everything is and can help locate a missing morsel that will finish their pièce de résistance.

photo: Brighid Murphy/Firelily Photography

Got Goods?
Got a basement full of half-finished craft projects? Flora welcomes donations with open arms, so ReTreasure is a great resource for parents to rid themselves of the extra piles of “would be” projects lying around the house (think paper towel rolls you’ve been meaning to turn into something inspired, yet again, by Pinterest). Check out the donations page here for a list of items Flora is able to accept.

photo:  Jenifer Castillo

How Much Does It Cost to Get Your Glitter On?
Drop in and go to town for $12 for 90 minutes of creative reuse. Monthly memberships are also available and perfect for those who plan to return (and return again). Individual memberships cost $30/month; for $45/month you can purchase a couples membership (for example; two children) or go big and buy a family membership (up to four people in the same household) for $65/month. Bonus: All memberships include unlimited studio access and a 10% retail discount.

ReTreasure also offers pre-paid passes if you’re looking for unique gift; purchase five passes for $57 or 10 passes for $90. And ReTreasure offers birthday party options, group events, field trips and even Parents’ Night Out programs which are available by appointment.

Insider Tip: Don’t have time to stick around? Have a school project that needs extra oomph? ReTreasure offers a “Fill a Bag” option that allows you to fill up a standard grocery bag to go for $10 (or $15 for fabric). Score!

photo:  Jenifer Castillo

Totally Tots
Heads up to those of you lucky enough to be wrangling tiny tots. ReTreasure offers rates of $5 a day for the 3 and under crowd—perfect for your resourceful (busy and curious) kiddos. Psst! The studio is an excellent place to meet up for a play date or to make new friends.

For those crafters who feel more creative after a fully stocked stomach, snacks are available for purchase. From chips to trail mix to coffee, water and tea, Yon make sure to stock treats that will keep your crew focused on their projects, and not on their grumbly tummies.

photo: Brighid Murphy/Firelily Photography

Treat Yourself
For a more substantial meal, ReTreasure is conveniently located across the street from Grand Central Bakery. This is the ideal spot to grab a latte (caffeine helps the creative process right?) and hot chocolate before heading over. It is also the perfect stop for a post creative victory cookie (or two).

Good to Know 
ReTreasure offers FREE bubble refills! Bring your own container (with a lid) any time the studio is open for a fill ‘er up; 8 oz of bubbles to-go (no purchase necessary).

ReTreasure
627 S.W. 152nd St.
Burien, Wa 98166
206-849-3409
Online: retreasure.org/home.php

Hours: Mon., noon-6 p.m.; Tues.-Thurs., 10:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri., Closed; Sat., 11 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sun., Closed

Have you visited ReTreasure?  If you’ve already had the pleasure of visiting, what masterpiece did you bring home? Let us know in a comment below.

—Jenifer Castillo

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