ML Interest Tag: geek-out

11 LA Oddities To Explore on Twilight Zone Day

by Shahrzad Warkentin

Have you ever felt like you’ve entered another time and dimension? No, that time you didn’t sleep for a week because your baby was cutting molars doesn’t count. We’re talking about The Twilight Zone. Though your little sci-fi lovers are too young to remember the series, they will definitely geek out over celebrating Twilight Zone Day on May 11th by visiting some of these out-of-this-world LA spots that will make you feel like you’ve entered a parallel universe.

Suss Out Solstice Canyon

Your junior odd squad (and the LOST fanatic in you) will love the eerie juxtaposition of discovering the ruins of buildings in the middle of a nature trail. Check out the bare bones of the old stone Keller House and some other relics as you go on a stroller-friendly hike on the trail.

3455 Solstice Canyon Road
Malibu
Online: nps.gov/samo/

photo: Fiona F. via Yelp

Which of LA’s alternate dimensions have you explored with your little time travelers? Share your favorite oddities in the comments?

—Shahrzad Warkentin

 

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All Aboard! Take a Ride on Seattle’s Favorite Santa Train

by Allison Sutcliffe

When it comes to Santa visits, kids just can’t seem to get enough. But all the waiting coupled with the crowds is enough to overwhelm any of Santa’s little helpers (and their parents). Take the wait out of this year’s Santa visit, and add an unexpected twist, by booking passage on the Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad’s Santa Express. There’s plenty for excited kidlets to see and do before and after their visit with the big man in red. Plus, there’s the train! Read on for everything you need to know about the coolest holiday choo-choo ride around.

photo: Mr. Rainier Scenic Railroad

Ho Ho Ho
Recreate the Polar Express (or a pretty close replica) for your kids this holiday season with a ride on the Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad’s special Santa Express train. Santa’s elves have been working overtime fine tuning this year’s experience with an eye on easy and exciting. Easy for parents, extra exciting for kids. Sounds like a winning combo to us! And we don’t want to spoil all the surprises, but rumor has there are some possible VIP visits in store, too. As for visits with the Man in Red, he’ll have his own special place on the train where eager kiddos can share their Christmas wishes and snap post-worthy pics before receiving their special souvenir gift. And don’t forget the hot cocoa and cookies doled out before boarding to keep everyone warm and set a festive mood. The Santa Train runs for a limited time, and spots fill up quickly (psst… a few time slots are already sold out!), so make your reservation early. We suggest booking a 10 a.m. trip for the easiest parking options. And who knows, if you’re lucky, you might even have some snow on the ground!

photo: Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad

All Aboard!
The journey with Santa starts at the North Pol…er… quaint train station in Elbe. We suggest arriving a good 45 minutes before the scheduled departure to get parked, checked in and watch the train approach. It’s one of those moments where feeling small is an understatement, and your little engineers will stare wide-eyed for good reason. To add to your special experience, head up to the engine car and hop on board as it turns around for the next adventure. The engineers are psyched to share their passion for trains with passengers (remember, they’re volunteer hobbyists!). And they can answer all kinds of questions from curious minds, little or big. They love to share stories, so get ready to geek out with those who live the dream!

photo: Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad

The ride out to Mineral is about 40 minutes and it’s a throw back that’ll have you longing for a slower paced life. That rhythmic clickety-clack of the train on the tracks, the rustic wooden benches in the cars, the classic whistle of the steam engine. You can’t help but feel like you’re in the middle of a Norman Rockwell painting as you ride along over streams and through forests, slowing to take in the beauty of Rainier looming above the trees (psst… the view’s on the east side of the train, so grab a seat there if you can). This is one situation where it’s definitely all about the journey. Like any train ride, passengers can get up and move through the cars, so you can keep the kiddos happy with some exploration and movement on this outing. Once you arrive in Mineral, you can get out and explore the new museum and stretch your legs a little bit or you can stay put as the train turns around the make the return journey.

photo: Bob Harbison Photography

If you’re feeling peckish, visit the snack car where you’ll find a full menu of munchies, like crackers, candy, nuts, chips, and drinks too. Everything’s on the cheap side and cash is a must-have. This is also where you’ll find the restrooms. If you need to change a diaper, you won’t find a changing table in either bathroom. But there’s floor space for a change in the bathroom facing the snack counter. If you can plan it (listen up, babies, we’re talking to you) change a diaper before you depart or after arriving in Mineral. Both of these restrooms have changing tables.

photo: Allison Sutcliffe

Good to Know
Happy kiddos, happy life. (Isnt that the saying?) Check out our tips below to keep your trip on track.

1) Plan for about 2 hours round-trip on the train and about 2 hours each direction if you’re driving down from the city. This is an all day, weekend adventure that’s worth the trip!

2) BYO is kosher when it comes to snacks and other food on the train. Just avoid glass bottles or things that can roll and spill, please.

3) Expect spotty cell service and Wi-Fi for the trip. This can either be the perfect excuse to unplug and enjoy the ride or it can mean a little planning ahead when it comes to downloads meant to occupy the littles.

4) All the train cars are covered and heated, but a warm blanket for laps can help to keep everyone cozy (these are 100-year-old, single-paned windows after all). Plus, it’ll add a little sleigh ride feel to your holiday excursion.

5) Practice the carnival ride caveat to keep the kidlets safe on the train. Hands and limbs inside the moving vehicle at all times means they won’t encounter ant low-hanging, unfriendly branches along the way.

Good Eats
Just north of the Elbe train station, sits the train-car-turned-restaurant, Mt. Rainier Railroad Dining Company Restaurant. Here they serve up traditional diner fare like burgers, salads, pastas, and desserts that you’d be embarrassed to admit you ate to your dentist. Everything’s homemade and let’s just say you should expect some leftovers when it comes to serving size. If you find a long line here, or feel the need to sink your teeth into a juicy burger, the Elbe Bar and Grill is a good alternative. With a kid’s menu and a truly local feel, it’ll help your crew fill their tummies before or after the trip.

photo: Allison Sutcliffe 

Y’All Come Back Now, Ya Hear?
The Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad resumes its usual schedule in May. Just in time to watch the world come to life again and enjoy the sights and smells of spring in the mountains. On this train, passengers get to disembark at the depot in Mineral and check out the world’s largest collection of steam logging locomotives. If engines are your thing, (and even if they’re not) get ready to marvel at some of the rare and vintage beauties housed in their sheds. Move over, Thomas. Sodor ain’t got nothin’ on this place! And although you won’t find Sir Topham Hatt wandering around these sheds, you’ll probably find some people busy working on engines at the Shop. The tools alone are worth a peek. There are plenty of photo ops as you wander through the Rod House and the House of Gears, weaving in and around these massive metal machines. Each engine has a story to tell, and interesting facts are posted to help those of us who may not be so in-the-know figure out the cool in what we’re seeing. There’s serious history in the American railroading culture, and here’s a chance to learn all about it!

photo: Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad

Mt. Rainier Scenic Railroad
54124 Mountain Hwy E.
Elbe, Wa 98330
360-569-7959
Reservations: 1-888-783-2611
Online: mrsr.com

Dates: Nov. 28-Dec. 21, 2015
Cost: $32/Adults (ages 13-61); $27/Youth (ages 5-12); $18/Kids (ages 3 & 4); 2 & under Free. $2 parking.
Times: Sat. & Sun. at 10 a.m., 12:45 p.m. & 3:30 p.m.

Do you plan to ride the Scenic Mountain Railroad with Santa? Have you taken the trip before? Share your experience in a comment below.

— Allison Sutcliffe

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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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How Smart Moms Survive Winter in NYC

by Ashly Grzyb

When jet setting to Miami for the winter isn’t an option, a mom’s gotta do what a mom’s gotta do. From rockin’ the best cold weather gear to planning an adventure by bus to making the most of a grocery run, this survival guide has 25 ideas to help you conquer the winter blues. (Spoiler: Watching Frozen is not one of them.) 

Photo courtesy of Dan Nyugen via Flickr

1. Master winter weather gear – If you want to survive strolling in freezing temps, get the necessities like footmuffs that create a cocoon for your infant or toddler inside the car seat or stroller and handmuffs that keep your hands toasty while pushing your beast of a stroller. Available locally at Giggle (120 Wooster St. between Prince & Spring, 1033 Lexington Ave. at 74th St., and 352 Amsterdam Ave. between 76th & 77th St.) or BuyBuyBaby (410 East 61st St. and 1st Ave. or 270 Seventh Ave. at 26th St.).

2. Make a craft emergency kit – Fill it with stickers, pipe cleaners, play dough, crayons, notecards, clothes pins, pom poms and other goodies found at your local craft store. Break it out when winter boredom strikes. The mother-load of craft stores, Michael’s carries every crafty material you can imagine and also offers drop-in crafting sessions for kids ages 3 and up. Make a Mardi Gras mask or frame for your Valentine. (675 Avenue of the Americas or 808 Columbus Ave.)

3. Plan mommy (and daddy) happy hour – Who says you can’t bring a baby to a bar? Bring the kiddos to these indoor beer gardens that welcome kids. They’re spacious enough for the kids to stretch their legs while you throw back a couple cold ones. Not to mention, the kids will love the German soft pretzels, popcorn, and other snacks. Check out Spiritzenhause in Greenpoint, Die StammKneipe in Fort Greene or Pony Bar on the Upper East Side.

4. Give and you shall receive – We all know indoor play space memberships can cost a pretty penny. So share the wealth. Offer a guest pass to a friend and hope for one in return. After all, NYC has the best indoor playgrounds to help the kiddos (and you) overcome cabin fever like Playgarden, AppleSeeds or Kidville. And don’t forget to say thank you!

5. Seek out the sun – On a clear winter day the sun peaks between 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Soak up some warm rays before the sun sets at 4 p.m. Check out Manhattan playgrounds that have the least amount of shade like the ones Washington Square Park or Madison Square Park.

Photo courtesy of Kris Arnold via Flickr

6. When the strolling gets tough, the tough ride the bus – It may take longer to reach your destination but the ride is half the fun. Make it an adventure. You can even play I spy or create a scavenger hunt as you go. Take the M11 bus up 10th Ave. and hop off near the Children’s Museum of Manhattan. Take the M1 bus up Madison Ave. to the Museum of the City of New York and take part in their family programs. Ride the M1 bus down Fifth Ave. to the Children’s Center at the New York Public Library. Hop the M20 bus down 7th Ave. to Battery Park where you can taste the new food vendors at Hudson Eats at Brookfield Place. Then, stop by the skating rink or movie theater next door.

7. Make a play date …and another …and another – It takes a village, remember? Rely on the company of friends to make it through cold winter days. Let the kiddos play at a friend’s house, while the moms sip on coffee or wine. Make it fun for moms too by adding a theme. Bring desserts one day and comfort food the next and exchange recipes. Even better, meet in free community play rooms in condo buildings. Some are pretty cool like the ones designed by Citibabes. So make friends with someone who lives in one of these buildings or petition to create a Citibabes playroom to your own building. No space in your apartment for a big group? Plan a meet-up at one of NYC’s best indoor spots that welcomes moms and playgroups.

8. Grab the popcorn – Get off your sofa and head to one of these kid-friendly theaters showing a mix of new and old, age-appropriate movies for tots to tweens. Pass the time at Sunshine Cinemas (143 East Houston St., between 1st and 2nd Ave.), the IFC Center (323 Sixth Ave. at 3rd St.), or Sony Wonder Technology Lab (56th St. and Madison Ave.).

9. Celebrate! – Do you truly need an excuse to party? Get your friends together and celebrate Valentine’s Day, Mardi Gras, St. Patrick’s Day and even Earth Day! Check our events calendar to find local drop-in celebrations. Or keep it simple and celebrate with your kiddos at home with themed crafts, games, and homemade cards for grandma.

10. Get a tune up – Strollers take a beating in the winter. The sludge and salt wear on the tires and your coffee drips all over the sunshade. When you need a tune-up, don’t hesitate to call the folks at Baby Bubbles. They offer free pick up and delivery service and top to bottom stroller cleaning.

11. No sleep ’til Brooklyn – If you’re looking for all day entertainment, you can’t do any better than the Brooklyn Children’s Museum. With a water play area, art studio, building zone and even special play spaces dedicated to tots and babies, they’ll will be worn out in no time. Then, check out these other Brooklyn play spaces – no membership required.

Photo courtesy of WCS

12.Grin and bear it – Brave the cold to see the two new grizzly bears at the Central Park Zoo. Betty and Veronica will be glad you did. You can also see the indoor penguin and puffin exhibit, steamy rainforest exhibit, and 4 D theater. Plus, check out the family fun days for all ages including costume parades, live theater performances, and animal encounters. If you need to warm up after your wild afternoon, grab a bite at the nearby Plaza Food Hall on the lower level of the hotel. And if you still have time to spend (and you’re feeling desperate), you’re right next to FAO Schwarz. 

13. Go to the mall – Did you know NYC even had a mall? Channel your inner suburban mom and stroll through Manhattan Mall in Herald Square or Atlantic Terminal Mall in Brooklyn. Your kids can pass a few hours playing games with a giant mouse at the Chuck E. Cheese’s at Atlantic Terminal Mall or playing with toys you won’t buy at the Toys “R” Us in Manhattan Mall – just have an exit strategy planned in advance. Cheddar bunnies in the stroller, perhaps?

14. Explore Grand Central Station – Kids love trains – you get it. But did you know about Grand Central Terminal’s other kid-friendly entertainment? Discover the whispering gallery, the zodiac on the terminal ceiling, the holiday train show (through Feb. 22), tasty treats from Magnolia Bakery and Shake Shack, plus over 68 shops for you.

15. Hit the ice – If you’ve watched Frozen more times than you can count, it’s time for some real ice action. Take the kiddos to one of the many ice skating rinks where they can slide around until they turn “Elsa blue”, while you nosh on delicious comfort snacks and (spiked) hot cocoa before calling it a day. If you want to avoid ice burn, some rinks offer lessons including South Street Seaport or LeFrak Center at Lakeside Prospect Park or The Standard Hotel Ice Rink.

16. Geek is chic – Geek out at the New York Hall of Science in Queens. With over 450 exhibits, demonstrations and activities that explain science, technology, engineering and math, you can play all day. And you’ll be learning something, too. Attend the special family program for younger kids called Little Makers to do crafts like tie dye, bath crayons and handmade paper.

17. Allow some screen time – Here’s the plan: go to a kid-friendly coffee shop, connect to free wifi, sip a cup of joe, and let the kids play games, watch movies, or read books online. The Queens Library has links to free online children’s books. The good news is you’re out of the house.

18. Visit a library for story time or any time – Let’s face it – it’s free entertainment outside your home all day long. You can read endless books, play with their toys, make arts and crafts and even watch movie screenings. Haven’t discovered your neighborhood library yet? Find the closest branch by checking out the New York Public Library, Brooklyn Public Library or Queens Library.

19. Bring a class to you – Forget leaving your cozy apartment. Bring the fun to you with private classes that come to your home including the teachers, supplies and clean up. Invite your friends over and make music, create art or practice a new language. It’s instant entertainment!

20. Spend the night at the museum – Are your kids begging for a change of scenery? Here’s a big change – The American Museum of Natural History hosts mammoth size sleepovers for ages 6 to 13. How cool is it that your kids can spend a night at the museum, just like the movie.

21. Make groceries fun – Take advantage of all that your neighborhood Whole Foods has to offer. The Tribeca location (270 Greenwich St.) boasts a family seating area upstairs with kids’ toys and a play kitchen, kids’ cooking classes and art classes. Brooklyn’s Third Street location (214 3rd St.) hosts Friday story time in the 2nd floor cafe.

Photo courtesy of Dan Rosenthal via Flickr

22. Let it Snow – Avoid the piles of sludge on the city streets, and take your little eskimos to the best sledding hills in Manhattan, Brooklyn or Queens. Who said you need your own backyard? Be like Ralphie and pack on the warm layers for an afternoon of wintery bliss.

23. Call in back-up – Whether it’s the girl next door, your favorite UrbanSitter, or Grandma, give yourself a break. Plan a full day where you get out of the house for some much needed me time or couple time, while the little ones enjoy a fresh face. Remember when you used to spend your Saturday at bottomless brunch or shopping in SoHo? Find your happy place.

24. Get out of town – Explore the winter fun that awaits outside the city and check out a nearby winter destination. You’ll find ski mountains, sleigh rides and a wolf sanctuary less than three hours away. Take a day trip or spend the night – either way, you’re filling the winter days with fun.

25. Lastly, run for your life – Pack your bags and run, drive, or fly to warmer weather. It’s amazing what a little Vitamin D can do for your frozen family. Imagine white sandy beaches, blue splashy pools, and refreshing cocktails. Make like Olaf and pretend it’s “SUMMMERRRRR…..”.

How will you make it to April? Share your winter survival secrets in the comments below.

-Ashly Grzyb

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Faux Hawks to Fringe: Fab Spots for Fly Haircuts

by Jennifer O'Brien

Baller backpack? Check. Apple for teach? Check. New haircut? Ahem, new haircut? No worries. When it come to getting your tikes ready for the new school year, we’ve got you covered – starting with the hottest salons in town where trendy tots can get a trim.

The Yellow Balloon
If there’s one salon that’s synonymous with childhood in LA, it’s The Yellow Balloon. In fact, many Angeleno parents who grew up getting their hair cut at this cheery shop, now take in their own kiddos for a little snippety-snip. Pinball machines, video games, balloons and Disney flicks playing on TV make tots feel more like they’ve entered wonderland than a neighborhood hair shop. But most importantly, your babe’s hair is in great hands. From timid first timers to tikes with ants in their pants, stylists have tons of experience working with all types of kiddos, including those with special needs. And there isn’t any hair they can’t handle. So bring on your corn rows, extensions, or a tired do that just needs a refresh – they’ve got you covered.

Snip Tip: Be sure to check out The Yellow Balloon site for current discount coupons.

12448 Ventura Blvd., Studio City
Phone: 818-760-7141
Online: theyellowballoon.com

Little Rockstar Children’s Salon
You’re never too young to drive a Ferrari, and Little Rockstar Children’s Salon gives kiddos the chance to take a spin. Okay, in a barber chair that looks like one anyway. Created with loads of imagination, this valley shop gives pint-sized patrons a taste of the rock ‘n’ roll lifestyle while they get a rad new do. Kids can chill in a Mercedes G Wagon, airplane, Hummer and more as experienced stylists deliver trendsetting cuts that even Jagger and Joplin would envy. The salon also offers munchkins the opportunity to get a mani/pedi in oversized butterfly chairs if they so desire. And who could turn that down?

13712 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks
Phone: 818-907-9717
Online: littlerockstarsalon.com

Bubble Cuts
Designed with whimsical vintage flair, Bubble Cuts’ squeaky clean and inviting atmosphere transports customers back to a simpler time, instantly putting kiddos (and their nervous Nellie parents) at ease. Tots sit inside special fire engines, cop cars and Cali cool convertibles while getting their hair cut to perfection. Cartoons play on nearby TVs – keeping the squirmiest toddlers occupado while they’re in the chair. Stylists and salon staff are uber-friendly and pride themselves in staying up to date on current trends, styles and beauty products for wee ones. (And they give such cool cuts that we know more than one mom who made the switch to also getting her hair cut here!)

5054 1/2 Eagle Rock Blvd., Eagle Rock
Phone: 323-255-5627
Online: bubblecuts.com

Tipperary
Cutting kiddos’ coifs in the 90210 for over 40 years, Tipperary consistently proves to be one of the hottest salons in town for the small fry set. With stylists who can do just about anything from braids to blowouts to chlorine removal and cuts that ooze LA cool, your little one will be fantastic hands. And the fact that they’re friendly as all get out, doesn’t hurt either. Tots (and parents) will geek out over old school video games while you wait and can choose from a wide variety of the latest kid-friendly hair products on your way out the door.

9422 Dayton Way, Beverly Hills
Phone: 310-274-0294
Online: tipperarykids.com


Floyd’s 99 Barbershop
No boring old bowl cuts here, folks. Floyd’s 99 Barbershop caters to big and little rockers alike who are craving edgier, cooler-than-cool cuts and color. Floyd’s crazy talented stylists are equally adept working with tots as they are with parents so you can both get a snip at the same time (read: you just got your afternoon back). With several locations from Hollywood to the Westside to the Valley, it’s easier than ever to find a shop in your hood. Kids’ cuts are super affordable too at around just $19 per noggin.Online: floydsbarbershop.com

There are so many fab kid salons in So Cal. If we left your fave out, give us a shout about why you love it so!

– Jennifer O’Brien

Photo credits: The Yellow Balloon on facebook, Little Rockstar Children’s Salon on facebook, Bubble Cuts on facebook, Tipperary on facebook and Floyd’s 99 Barbershop on facebook

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Discover a Museum That Feels More Like an Arcade

by Allison Sutcliffe

The dream of the ’70s is alive in Seattle. Right in the heart of the International District at the Seattle Pinball Museum, where pinball wizards of all ages test their mettle in a battle against the inevitability of the drain. And it’s where you’ll find all the cool kids (and their parents) this mid-winter break. So dig out that old jean jacket and warm up your flipper fingers. It’s time to play a mean pinball!

photo: Seattle Pinball Museum Facebook page

The Museum
If your mental soundtrack hasn’t already queued up The Who’s Pinball Wizard, it will once you walk through the doors of the museum. Between the flashing lights and those distinctive pinging bells, this is one throwback that’s not just for Thursdays. The museum was part of the 2010 Storefront Seattle project aimed at revitalizing empty storefronts in Pioneer Square and the International District. Since winning one of the coveted spots, it has become a favorite for kids and those who are young at heart. And while it’s not always crowded, count on busyness whenever you plan to go. If you’re looking for a quieter playtime, Sundays (especially on game days), Mondays, and some Fridays are the best days to get your game on.

photo: Seattle Pinball Museum Facebook page

Game On!
The museum has over 50 pinball machines and a few old-school video arcades. The titles range from long-ago generic games, to contemporary sports, movie and rock ’n’ roll themed machines you’ll recognize and totally love. (After all, it’s hard for Gen Xers to pass up childhood kitsch like Tron and AC/DC.) There might even be a few games your kiddos recognize, too. (Psst! Try the Flipper Football on the 2nd floor, featuring the Sounders FC). And while the history of it all may fall on deaf ears when it comes to your kidlets, there’s much for parents to appreciate in the artistry of pinball culture. Catch up on some by reading the posted placards that explain the lineage and development of each pinball game. Or scan QR codes with your smart phone for awesome in-depth descriptions to totally geek out. As for the oldest game in the museum, it’s from the early 60’s. And the newest is one seriously sweet game minted just last year—The Emerald City, Limited Edition, Wizard of Oz. Definitely bring a few dollars to try it out. It’s one that’s not on free play, but so worth it.

photo: Allison Sutcliffe

Just for Kids
If all of this sounds awesome, but you’re wondering if your littles will love it, we found quite a few reasons we think they will. First and foremost is that (almost all of) the games are set to free play. No quarters necessary. Just a flat entrance fee and then you get to say “yes” to your kiddo all day. Can I play this one? You bet! The littles will also love the many step stools that can be found hiding (in plain sight) under various machines. After all, it’s hard to score big when you can’t quite see the playing field. As for lines, players are pretty cool about watching out for each other. The request is that if someone’s waiting, limit play time to two games and then give her a turn. And that kind of policy means small wait times for the smallest players. Plus, it’s game time without a screen. Yes, please!

photo: Seattle Pinball Museum Facebook page

Good to Know
1. No outside food or drink is allowed, but there are snacks, sodas and beer (along with some killer swag) available for purchase.

2. Depending on when you plan to play, street parking may be hard to come by. Try the lot at the end of the block on Maynard to avoid parking headaches.

3. Plan to spend about 2-3 hours to take in all the games and play a few faves more than once.

Seattle Pinball Museum
508 Maynard Ave. S.
Seattle, Wa 98104
206-623-0759
Online: facebook.com/pages/Seattle-Pinball-Museum/131237786915560

Times: Sun. & Mon., 11 a.m.-5 p.m.; Thurs. 6 p.m.-9 p.m. (10 p.m. on tournament nights); Fri. 2 p.m.-10 p.m.; Sat. 1p.m.-10 p.m.

Cost: $15/Adults; $12/Kids (7-12) for one entry. All Day Pass $20/Adults; $17. 50/Kids plus games on freeplay.

Ages: 4 & up

—Allison Sutcliffe

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