The hustle and bustle that’s bundled with everyday life for our littlest friends can be tough on a kid with special needs. That’s why some local kid-centric businesses and performance groups block off specific times where the noise is dialed back, lights are dimmed, crowds are kept small and kids are, well, free to be themselves! Read on to learn about a special Blue Man Group performance and museums, play spaces, theatres, a gym and more that keep special needs kids in mind when developing their programming.

photo: Chicago Children’s Museum

YEAR-ROUND ACTIVITIES

Play for All at Chicago Children’s Museum
On the second Saturday of every month from 9 a.m.-10 a.m., Chicago Children’s Museum invites children with disabilities and their families to experience playful, multi-sensory exhibits for a special Play for All private hour. The first 250 visitors to register receive FREE admission.  CCM opens to the public at 10 a.m. and Play For All families are welcome to stay and continue exploring the museum all day. Note: Pre-registration is required.

Outside of the second Saturday of the month opportunity, the museum has sound-reducing headphones, lap trays for wheelchairs, personal museum schedules, visual rule cards, an online Therapeutic Play Guide, a partnership with Francis W. Parker School to provide specially-trained student guides for your child and the entire museum is wheelchair accessible.

Chicago Children’s Museum, 700 E. Grand Ave., Navy Pier; Online: chicagochildrensmuseum.org

Get cultured with a Red Kite Project
Chicago Children’s Theatre created the Red Kite Project to bring on-going theatrical adventures, dynamic learning opportunities and camps to children on the autism spectrum and their families.

Every Monday, 4:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m., kids in grades 5-12 can participate in Red Kite Presents Shakespeare and Autism where the Hunter Heartbeat method is utilized to help participants navigate the social and communicative barriers of autism. This class is designed for neurodiverse learners to develop imaginative play skills, engage positively with their peers and learn how to work together as an ensemble.

The Station, 100 South Racine Ave., West Loop; Online: chicagochildrenstheatre.org

We Rock the Spectrum Kids Gym
We Rock the Gym is a safe space for kids all across the spectrum where apologies are never needed and uniqueness is celebrated. They’re committed to providing all children a fun, motivational environment to help increase strength and improve movement, sensory processing, communication, social interactions and self-care skills, while also incorporating positive behavior modification. Offerings include structured class times and open play sessions with drop-in and membership opportunities.

We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym, 553 E. Dundee, Palatine; Online: werockthespectrumchicagopalatine.com

Jump, jump, jump around at Airtastic
Start your week off with jumps at Airtastic’s Music FREE Mondays. They turn off the music to remove extra noise that can bother some children.

Airtastic, 850 S. Frontenac St., Aurora; Online: airtastic.com

photo: Blue Man Group via Caroline Talbot Photography

Blue Man Group goes sensory-friendly
Blue Man Group offers an annual sensory-friendly performance which includes slight modifications, such as dim lighting, bean bags, calm environment and quiet corners to better accommodate individuals with autism. Sound levels are reduced at select moments and noise isolating headphones also available upon request. Keep tabs on their website for future dates.

Briar Street Theatre, 3133 N. Halsted, Lakeview; Online: blueman.com

Special needs screenings at Studio Movie Grill
Studio Movie Grill hosts family-friendly movies free for children with special needs and their siblings with the purchase of an adult ticket. These special screenings are shown with the lights up and the volume lowered. Don’t worry if your movie date likes to stay on the move, children are free to move around, talk and even dance in the aisle. All screenings are shown at 11 a.m. on select dates.

Studio Movie Grill, 301 Rice Lake Square, Wheaton, 630-480-9557; Online: studiomoviegrill.com 

photo: Shedd Aquarium

Fish around for fun times at Shedd Aquarium
Shedd Aquarium’s inclusion program, Calm Waters, extends hours on select days exclusively for persons with disabilities. These evenings include a Caribbean Reef dive, during which you can watch a scuba diver explore the habitat alongside the animals, a 4-D Experience that combines the elements of a 3-D film with additional sensory effects like water mist and bubbles, plus an opportunity to learn how Shedd’s marine mammal trainers care for the animals. Check their website for dates and times.

photo: Shedd Aquarium 

Shedd Aquarium is offering visitors a low-sensory aquatic presentation on Thursdays at 3:30 p.m. and on the last Sunday every month for the last presentation of the day. Shedd’s low sensory aquatic presentations have reduced volume, dimmed lighting and all flashing lights are removed.

Before you visit Shedd, download their sensory-friendly app designed for guests with autism and sensory-processing disorders in mind. It includes video social guides that offer information on individual exhibit spaces, including photos, tips on temperature and noise levels. The app also includes a visual schedule, communication tools, sensory-friendly maps and more tips to plan your visit, set expectations and ease anxiety. And for our Spanish-speaking friends, a Spanish version is now available.

In addition, the aquarium has created a quiet room providing a dedicated space that can be used as a calming room, prayer room or place to privately recharge mobility devices.

Shedd Aquarium, 1200 S. Lake Shore Dr., Museum Campus, 312-939-2438; Online: sheddaquarium.org

Have wild fun at Lincoln Park Zoo
While Lincoln Park Zoo doesn’t have set times to bring kids who need special accommodations, they do have a great resource guide on their website giving tips on best times to come and which animal houses are the quietest, have lighting that’s comforting or are all-together sensory neutral. They also give information on best places to park, have wheelchairs available for rent with $20 deposit, ASL guides for the deaf and sighted guides for visually impaired visitors.

Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St., Lincoln Park, 312-742-2000; Online: lpzoo.org/accessibility

photo: The Field Museum via Maria Chambers

Visit the dinos at The Field Museum
The Field Museum understands that some kiddos may have specific sensory processing needs in order to have a great museum experience. For that very reason, they open the doors to the Crown Family PlayLap one hour early on select Saturdays, so families can enjoy a crowd-free space. There are tactile opportunities and sensory tools to help ensure an enjoyable experience for all.

The Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Dr., Museum Campus; Online: fieldmuseum.org

Popcorn and a show at AMC
AMC partners with the Autism Society to offer specialized movie showings where the lights are turned up and the sound down so you can get up, dance, walk, shout or belt out a tune. The Sensory Friendly Film program is available on the second and fourth Saturday of every month.

Check for theaters and listings near you at amctheatres.com

Photo: LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago via Maria Chambers

Play Well Days at LEGOLAND Discovery
LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago and Austim Speaks teamed up to provide a sensory-friendly LEGO experience the first Saturday of every month. Special accommodations will be made during Play Well Days including reduction of sound and lights, quiet spaces, a reduced center capacity, staff training by Autism Speaks and earplugs are provided, if requested.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago, 601 N. Martingale Dr., Schaumburg; Online: chicago.legolanddiscoverycenter.com

Reach for the clouds at Sky High Sports
Every Tuesday, Sky High Sports turns off the music, dims the lights and dials down the distractions for the comfort of their guests. Jump sessions for kids with special needs and their families is a passion project for Sky High founder Jerry Raymond. The father of a special needs son, Jerry has witnessed how jumping can help improve motor and sensory skills, social interaction and overall fitness for kids and young adults. Times of the jump vary by location, so check the website for the location nearest you before heading to jump.

Sky High Sports, 6424 Howard St., Niles; Online: nil.skyhighsports.com or 2244 Corporate Lane, Naperville; Online: nap.skyhighsports.com

photo: Brookfield Zoo

Go blue at Brookfield Zoo
For the last 4 years, Brookfield Zoo has hosted Autism Awareness in April, where they dye the fountain blue and have special activities — like crafting, quieted carousel rides, tailored Zoo Chats with animals and designated areas for quiet time geared toward special needs families. If you’re visiting on a day outside of the designated Autism Awareness Day, you can pick up a BZ Care Kit for free that includes noise-reducing headphones, hard copies of visual schedules, autism stickers and safety alert badges and ID bracelets in case a child gets separated.

Also good to note, Brookfield Zoo has an online map that shows quiet spaces throughout the zoo where you can duck into when needed. They also have wheelchairs and Electronic Convenience Vehicles available for rent, ASL interpreters upon request and those with disabilities are not required to wait in any lines. They have a robust Accessibility Guide online that’s worth a look through before your zoo visit, as well.

Brookfield Zoo, 3300 Golf Rd., Brookfield; Online: czs.org

Family Night Out at DuPage Children’s Museum
DuPage Children’s Museum’s Family Night Out provides an evening of play and learning for children on the autism spectrum and other sensory processing disorders, as well as physical disabilities. Check their website for dates.

If you find a member of your crew needs a break from the action, let a DCM worker show you to the Quiet Room. You’ll find a soft couch, dimmed blue lights and a calming marble wall full of light and touch sensations. TIP: After school and early evening are often quieter times for family or therapeutic visits.

DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville; 630-637-8000; Online: dupagechildrens.org

photo: Morton Arboretum

Take a nature walk at Morton Arboretum
A trip to the Arboretum is a great first ingredient for a good day for both kids and parents. It’s a fun place to explore and develop a love of the great outdoors. While they don’t have specific hours that target families with special needs, they do offer a thorough resource page on their website to help navigate the Arboretum comfortably and special Visual Schedule books are available at the Information Desk in the Visitor Center on a first-come, first-served basis. The book helps guests plan their visit and is designed specifically for individuals on the autism spectrum or with learning or development disabilities.

To expand your nature walks beyond Morton Arboretum, check out our story Hiking Trails That Even Toddlers Will Love.

Morton Arboretum, 4100 IL Rte. 53, Lisle; Online: mortonarb.org

Take a swim with JCC
JCC Chicago has created an All-In Swim program for children on the autism spectrum designed to teach water safety and swim skills in a comfortable, supportive environment. Their unique curriculum focuses on valuable life-saving techniques, recreational swim therapy and increased independence and self-esteem. Each class incorporates creative games and play, as well as visual instruction such as picture cards. For certain sensory sensitivities, textured mats, wet suits, water toys and flotation devices may be used to maximize the experience. With seven levels of learning, students will make progress at their own pace.

If JCC Chicago isn’t convenient for you, reach out to one of the pools in our story 7 Swimming Schools That Will Float Your Boat to inquire about your child’s unique needs.

Programs available in West Rogers Park and Northbrook; Online: jccchicago.org

photo: Autism Speaks

HOW TO SUPPORT

Walk Now for Autism Speaks
This no-pressure, three-mile walk takes place in two locations in the spring, downtown Chicago and Northfield. The downtown walk takes you leisurely by the Field Museum and Shedd Aquarium and along the lakefront. Strollers — and even Radio Flyer wagons — are welcome. And, that’s right: no registration fees. You won’t get a T-shirt unless you raise at least $150 for Autism Speaks, but anyone is welcome to participate, whether or not you choose to fundraise. This annual event also features an after-party with kid lures like inflatable bouncers, sensory sensitive activities and a petting zoo.

Find out more at autismspeaks.org

— Maria Chambers

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There’s a part of us that never grows up and, for some, that part is the kid who loves to play with her food. We don’t know why, but food just tastes better when you get to touch it before you chew it. So let’s face it: forks and spoons are overrated. We’ve compiled a list of exceptionally tasty restaurants where eating with your hands is not just condoned, but expected. These restaurants make for a very fun, finger-licking good family night out.

Photo: y i v a via Flickr

Brazilian Style Tapas at The Grill from IpanemaThe “Petiscos” at The Grill from Ipanema are bite-sized bits of yumminess that you and the kids will love to pop in your mouth. No utensils needed. Choose from a variety of small plates: fried cod fish croquettes, cubes of sautéed sirloin, spicy sausage slices, crispy fried chicken pieces, herb-basted shrimp, and many more. Order a few plates of small bites and you’ve got one delicious meal.

1858 Columbia Rd., NW (Adams Morgan)
202-986-0757
Online: www.thegrillfromipanema.com

Marrakesh
The first thing you do when you enter Marrakesh is wash your hands, so you’re fully prepared to use them as your main utensil. Then relax and get ready for a seven-course meal that you’ll eat entirely with your hands, while your eyes feast on talented belly dancers. Highlights of the meal include b’stella, a layered pie with chicken, parsley, eggs, nuts and onions topped with cinnamon and sugar. There’s also lamb with almonds and honey, fresh fruit and Moroccan pastries.

2147 P St., NW (Dupont Circle)
202-775-1882
Online: http://www.marrakechrestaurantdc.com

Sticky Fingers Sweets and Eats
In addition to catering local events with very beautiful specialty cakes, Sticky Fingers features some of the tastiest treats in town at its downtown café, and none of them require utensils. Take the kids on a sugar binge with some decadent fingers foods, such as red velvet whoopee pies, cinnamon and walnut sticky buns, and pecan bourbon sandwich cookies. There’s also a full menu of finger-friendly breakfast and lunch plates, including burgers, sandwiches and wraps. The only menu items you might need a fork for are the salads. You decide.

1370 Park Rd., NW (Columbia Heights)
202-299-9700
Online: www.stickyfingersbakery.com

GBD Fried Chicken and Doughnuts
You know that any place specializing in fried chicken and doughnuts is going to be finger-friendly, and GBD (Golden, Brown and Delicious) is definitely that. The chicken comes by the piece or the bucket, or on top of waffles with maple-chicken jus and buttered pecans (yum). You can choose between nine delectable dipping sauces for your chicken tenders – buttermilk ranch, jerk, chipotle bbq, and sweet and sour mumbo, to name a few. And don’t forget the doughnuts. They are baked fresh throughout the day and topped with classic and seasonal glazes.

1323 Connecticut Ave., NW (Dupont Circle)
202-524-5210
Online: www.gbdchickendoughnuts.com

Do you have a favorite restaurant where the kids can (acceptably) eat with their hands? Dish in the comments section below. 

—Jamy Bond

With its proximity to Rock Creek Park, rich history, and revitalized business district, Petworth has something for everyone from preschoolers to the POTUS himself. Here’s a list of our favorite places to eat, play, dance, and explore with kiddos in this growing nabe.

Parks and Playgrounds

Photo: Petworth Jazz Poject via Facebook

Enjoy Jazz in the Park with the Petworth Jazz Project
An evening of jazz doesn’t have to be an adults-only affair. The Petworth Jazz Project hosts a series of outdoor concerts that are a great option for a family night out. Held on the last Saturday of the month, each performance starts with a special kids show that’s followed by a showcase of local jazz talent. Not a jazz fan? Then dust off your dancing shoes. This year’s lineup includes cultural and modern dance performances on the second Saturday of the month.

8th and Taylor Streets, NW
Online: petworthjazzproject.com

Restaurants

Photo: Chez Billy via France

Feast on French Fare at Chez Billy
“Kids menu” and “authentic French cuisine” are two phrases you don’t usually hear in the same sentence. That’s not the case at Chez Billy. Whether families eat inside or on the back patio, tiny diners can enjoy kids’ menu standards with a French twist (think grilled cheese with gruyère), while parents splurge on the restaurant’s specialities, including $1 oysters on the half-shell during happy hour, which is held Tuesday-Saturday from 5:30 pm-7:30 pm. To that, we say “Oui!”

3815 Georgia Ave., NW
202-506-2080
Online: chezbilly.com

Play and Explore

Photo: President Lincolns Cottage via Facebook

Step Back in Time at President Lincoln’s Cottage
When Honest Abe needed a break, he headed to his Gothic Revival cottage located in what is now Petworth. Today, President Lincoln’s Cottage is a haven for history buffs young and old. This national monument offers hands-on, multimedia activities that bring our 16th president’s experiences as a politician, policymaker, and family man to life. When planning your visit, don’t forget your picnic basket–the Cottage’s large lawn offers the perfect spot for an outdoor nosh fest. And if you are going with a Girl Scout, call ahead to learn how she can earn a badge on your visit!

Upshur Street at Rock Creek Church Rd., NW
202-829-0436
Online: lincolncottage.org

Sing-Along at Upshur Street Books
Upshur Street Books started as a Kickstarter project and resulted in the first independent bookstore to open in the District since 2003. In just a short time, the store has become a neighborhood gathering place for bookworms of all ages. Parents in Petworth and beyond speak highly of the store’s sing-alongs, which feature local musicians, puppeteers, and even a Santa look-a-like during the holidays. The small space fills up quickly, so be sure to show up early to get a stroller parking spot.

827 Upshur St.,NW
202-726-0380
Online: upshurstreetbooks.com

Spend the Day at Raymond Recreation Center
There are no rickety swing sets in sight at Petworth’s Raymond Recreation Center. The Center’s outdoor spaces recently underwent a $2.5 million dollar upgrade, and are now home to state-of-the-art equipment. When you visit, check out the Eclipse Plus Net climber. This structure, which encourages balance, coordination, and upper body strength, is the first of its kind in the country. Other highlights include a fitness zone, a pavilion with picnic tables, and a “We Saw” that sits up to five kids at a time.

3725 10th St., NW
Online: dpr.dc.gov

Does your family have any favorite Petworth spots? Tell us about them in the comments section below.

–Sarah Vogel

Alameda boasts a small-town feel while just being a hop or skip (or ferry or bridge, to be exact) from bigger Bay Area cities. With miles of beautiful coastline to roam, hill-free streets that are perfect for an all-ages bike ride, and an abundance of family-friendly venues, it’s a haven for residents and a welcome escape for visiting families. Here’s a guide to help you get started on your own Alameda adventure.

Photo: EBRPD

Play

Washington Park
One of this playground’s major charms is its proximity to other kid-friendly distractions—a duck pond with a wooden walking bridge, a grassy field practically made for freeze-tag, a dog park, and of course, the beach. Located beside a row of the island’s tallest palm trees, the playground features two play structures, a giant fish ladder, and a covered sandbox. Bring an extra change of clothes if you’ve got littles who love the water!

8th St. and Central Ave.
Alameda, Ca
Online: alamedaca.gov

Franklin Park
This local gem is nestled in the island’s historic Gold Coast neighborhood, surrounded by beautiful old homes. The entire play area is fenced in for your little one’s safety. In addition to romping on the two play structures complete with swing sets (one for small, one for big), kiddies love to wander to the adjacent grounds to climb a tree or take a spin on the classic merry-go-round.

1432 San Antonio Ave.
Alameda, CA
Online: alamedaca.gov

Lincoln Park
It’s fun to imagine Lincoln Park as it stood in the 1800s—a large estate complete with a mansion and sprawling gardens. Today, the park is a haven on hot days, when large trees provide shade over the larger of two play structures. There’s also a bocce court, rose garden, and outdoor exercise station with fitness equipment for mom and dad. There’s not a prettier place to play!

1450 High St.
Alameda, CA
Online: alamedaca.gov

Studio Grow
This popular East Bay play space recently branched out with a location in Alameda’s South Shore Center, where ice cream at Loard’s or lunch at Panera is just a hop and a skip away. Pop by for drop-in play in the large room equipped with educational toys, or schedule your visit during one of the daily storytime, dance party, or parachute time programs that are included with admission.

2202 S. Shore Center
Alameda, CA
Online: StudioGrow.com

Photo: Tomatina

Eat

The HobNob
Combine dinner and family game night at this laid back Park Street eatery where board games line the back shelves. Sliders, baked macaroni and cheese, and comforting soups like butternut squash or split pea will satisfy the little ones’ palates while their grown-ups enjoy more sophisticated choices, from ahi tuna tartare tacos to fresh oysters. Come during happy hour for cheap drinks and to avoid the dinner rush.

1313 Park St.
Alameda, Ca
510-769-1011
Online: thehobnobalameda.com

Speisekammer
A trip to Germany waits on the other side of the Park Street Bridge at this decades-old Alameda establishment. Toast to a family night out over a pitcher of Bitburger Pilsner while the kids enjoy Reibekuchen (potato pancakes served with housemade apple compote), Kasebrett mit Fruchten (European cheeses and seasonal fruits), or a variety of German entrees like stuffed cabbage rolls or grilled pork chops, conveniently available in half sizes.

2424 Lincoln Ave.
Alameda, Ca
510-522-1300
Online: speisekammer.com

Café Jolie
Did someone say beignets? The mere mention can make mouths water, and at Café Jolie, this delectable dish as well as a range of other French American specialties are prepared with local and sustainable ingredients. You’ll have to share your beignets with the kiddo, though, because the kids’ menu features faves like French toast and pancakes instead.

1500 Webster St.
Alameda, Ca
Online: CafeJolies.com

Tomatina
It’s hard to go wrong with pizza, pasta, and veggies dipped in ranch dressing, all on the kids’ menu at Tomatina, where kids eat free on Thursdays. The main menu also features soups, salads, calzones, piadine, signature beverages, and desserts. Request a seat on the outdoor patio to enjoy your sangria al fresco while your mini sips on sparkling lemonade.

1338 Park St.
Alameda, CA
510-521-1000
Online: Tomatina.com

Blue Dot Café
Well known for being family-friendly, the Blue Dot has a comfy seating area just for kids, complete with a basket of books and toys. On weekends, live music often accompanies your meal. Kids’ menu choices include the likes of bowtie pasta with butter and parmesan or marinara served with animal crackers for lunch and cinnamon swirl toast for breakfast.

1910 Encinal Ave.
Alameda, Ca
510-523-2583
Online: Bluedotcafeandcoffeebar.com

La Penca Azul
Many Alamedans still remember this Mexican restaurant by its original name—La Pinata. With a loyal patronage that spans decades, La Penca Azul promises a festive atmosphere for the whole family. Share your full-size orders with the kids, or order something from the kids’ menu, which always comes with a side of crayons.

1440 Park St.
Alameda, Ca
510-769-9110
Online: LaPencaAzul.com

Alameda Marketplace
Find a variety of healthy choices for your picky eaters under one roof, from California rolls and miso soup at Sushi King to fresh, organic take-away at Greens & Grains. The Marketplace is home to 10 local vendors that focus on handmade, artisan foods. While you’re there, you can pick up some groceries, too.

1650 Park St.
Alameda, Ca
Online: AlamedaMarketplace.com

 Photo: Le Petit Matisse

Explore

Le Petit Matisse
As Picasso once said, “Every child is an artist,” so gather your young Fridas, Van Goghs, and Renoirs and set them loose at Le Petit Matisse art studio. Sign them up for painting, sculpture, shapes and colors, or drop in-art and rest easy knowing all the art materials here are 100 percent natural, from the non-toxic paint to the beeswax blend crayons.

1405 Encinal Ave.
Alameda, Ca
415-368-5155
Online: lepetitmatisse.org

USS Hornet Museum
Your little one may have a toy ship at home, but wouldn’t it be fun to explore the real thing? In addition to a range of historical exhibits, this giant aircraft carrier hosts fun events like Living Ship Days, Flashlight Tours, and birthday parties.

707 W Hornet Ave.
Alameda, Ca
510-521-8448
Online: uss-hornet.org

Subpar Mini Golf
Escape the wind and the rain with a game of indoor miniature golf. Each of 18 holes takes you through a tour of famous Bay Area landmarks. Kids will also love the skeeball, air hockey, foosball, arcade, and six-lane slot car track.

1511 Park St.
Alameda, CA
510-521-4653
Online: Subparminigolf.com

 

Photo: EBRPD

Crab Cove and Crown Beach
Alameda is perhaps best known for its miles of uncrowded shoreline. At the end of Crown Beach, Crab Cove is perfect for the kids, with regular low tides that are great for exploring. The Crab Cove Visitor Center contains an aquarium, interactive nature exhibits, and weekly programs like fish feeding and beach exploration.

1252 McKay Ave.
Alameda, CA
Online: ebparks.org

Toy Safari
Treasures line this famed toy store from floor to ceiling, where you’ll find all the classic games and characters you played with as a kid, as well as popular new additions for your playroom. The toy store also keeps a Toy Bucket List created by customers, so you will always find helpful recommendations on what to buy.

1410 Park St.
Alameda, Ca
510-522-1723
Online: Toysafaritoys.com

Alameda Point Antiques Faire
Each month, this one-of-a-kind antiques fair, the largest of its kind in Northern California, attracts hundreds of treasure seekers to the island to browse over 800 antique dealer booths. See what baubles or collectibles your kids will find. Children under 15 are admitted free. There are food vendors here, too, so you won’t leave hungry.

2900 Navy Way
Alameda, Ca
Online: Alamedapointantiquesfaire.com

Photo: Cookiebar Creamery

Sips & Sweets

Tucker’s
This Alameda institution is the first on many a list when it comes to dessert. Made the old-fashioned way in batch freezers, the ice cream here lives up to its name of being “supercreamed.” Junior scoops and fresh-made waffle cones are available.

1349 Park St.
Alameda, CA
Online: Tuckersicecream.com

Feel Good Bakery
Kids love macarons for their rainbow of colors. At Feel Good Bakery in the Alameda Marketplace, there’s always a new macaron flavor to discover. Everything here is made from scratch, from the sourdough bread to the pizza.

1650 Park St.
Alameda, Ca
510-864-2733
Online: FeelGoodBakery.com

Cookiebar
Relatively new on the scene, Cookiebar saw a quick rise to fame as an Alameda favorite. Housemade ice cream in flavors like Fruity Pebbles, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, and Sea Salted Caramel come delivered in a manner that kids love: between two soft cookies.

1606 Webster St.
Alameda, Ca
510-521-1544
Online: Cookiebarcreamery.com

Julie’s Coffee & Tea Garden
The enchanting back garden at Julie’s is the perfect place to enjoy a cozy tea party, even if it’s just between you and your little one. The grilled cheese sandwich is a favorite with kids, paired with a lavender lemonade or ginger-lemon brew.

1223 Park St.
Alameda, Ca
510-865-2385
Online: Juliestea.com

Yogofina
Froyo may never go out of style, and the choices for froyo in Alameda are many. Yogofina offers smaller cup sizes for kids, who love to pick among toppings like fruit, cereal, and gummy bears.

1335 Park St.
Alameda, CA
510-814-0658
Online: Yogofina.com

—Renee Rutledge

What’s your favorite spot in Alameda? Tell us in the comments below! 

Budding chefs may not have mastered the rules of the kitchen, but even they know that practice makes perfect. If they’re not quite ready for sous chef 101, we’ve found the next best option—kid-friendly restaurants where your mini- Julia Child can make, decorate or prep part (or all) of her meal. Perhaps this means that she’ll actually eat all of her food? One can dream.

Playseum
Treat Junior to playtime at the Playseum where—in addition to dress up, story time, and crafts—he can take a kids-only cooking class. For a few extra Playseum dollars (in addition to your ticket) kids can bake cookies, make smoothies or decorate cupcakes in the “Come Bake with Me” City Shop in Bethesda and even make homemade pasta in the “Come Cook with Me” D.C. City Shop. During certain seasons they can also bake an apple pie, or create their own sorbet in the D.C. shop.

7000 Wisconsin Ave. (Bethesda, Md)
301-807-8028

545 8th St., SE (Capitol Hill)
202-999-0510

Online: playseum.com

Urbana Restaurant
Pizza night? Head to Urbana, where kids get to build their own pizza (tableside!) and someone else cleans up the telltale mozzarella mess and cooks the pizza. Big and little kids will love choosing their own toppings—veggies, meat, cheese, sauce…the works! The only downside is that they don’t have make-your-own-pizzas for grown-ups. But, Urbana keeps kids happy, engaged and your kitchen stays sparkling clean. No flour bombs here.  

2121 P St., NW (Dupont Circle)
202-956-6650
Online: urbanadc.com

Newton’s Noodles
If your kids are obsessed with noodles then hightail it to Newton’s Noodles where little ones can be super-picky about what goes on their plates. Diners choose from either rice or gluten free noodles then add proteins, veggies, toppings, sauces and spice levels to create their own unique dish. This means that little miss “I won’t eat anything red and crunchy” can pick all her favorites to eat in one dish. With locally sourced ingredients and the pace of a fast-food joint, you can rest assured that your little lady won’t have a meltdown at the register.

1129 20th St., NW (Farragut North)
202-827-3907
Online: newtonsnoodles.com

Generous George’s
Dress up aficionados will love Generous George’s “make your own pizza” because it comes complete with its own chef hat. Kiddos get to make an eight-inch personal pizza with two toppings; the chefs will bake it and serve it. The perfect recipe for a family night out and they get a souvenir to take home. We call that a win win!

2321-C Dulles Station Blvd. (Herndon, Va)
703-793-3338
Online: generousgeorges.com

Firefly
Once the kids are seated at this popular restaurant, they’ll be shocked to find dessert delivered before dinner. Firefly offers kids a “decorate your own cookie” activity to keep them occupied and give them an incentive to eat their dinner. Sprinkles, chocolate chips, icing; it’s all there for the pickings. Once the masterpiece is finished, it’s whisked away to be baked and ready to be devoured once Junior has eaten his fill of the main meal.

1310 New Hampshire Ave., NW (Dupont Circle)
202-861-1310
online: firefly-dc.com

Have you tried any of these restaurant’s DIY dishes? Tell us about it in the comments section below. 

—Hilary Riedemann

Photos courtesy of Firefly, Generous George’s, Playseum, Newton’s Noodle, and Urbana (all via Facebook)