Friends and family have no shortage of activities and gifts to choose from when it comes to planning a baby shower. But, when it comes to a second (or third or fourth) baby, celebrations look a little different. Read on for tips on how to host a baby sprinkle, a smaller, scaled-back event that’s just as special as the new baby.
The Guest List
While baby showers are typically big events, baby sprinkles tend to be smaller but just as joyous affairs. It’s perfectly acceptable to invite everyone who attended the expectant mother’s baby shower, but because baby sprinkles are scaled-back events, it is also perfectly acceptable to cut down the guest list. The host and parents-to-be can determine what would work best.
Location may also determine the size of the party. If the parents-to-be feel up for it, ask if the baby sprinkle can be held in their home or yard. Assure the mom-to-be that she will not have to lift a finger! Then, enlist a couple of guests to help set up and clean up. Or, have a family member or close friend host at their place. Another option is to gather at a restaurant for a luncheon or high tea where everyone chips in to treat the expectant mom.
Things to consider: Some guest lists are limited to a smaller group that may include just the expectant parents’ closest friends and families. Some expectant parents choose to celebrate in smaller groups at different times, having small, separate get-togethers for family, neighborhood friends, work friends or college friends. If the expectant parents travel to their hometowns, having a baby shower with just family when they go for a visit can be a lot of fun too. Some parents-to-be prefer smaller gatherings that are low-fuss since it is easier to spend time with everyone who attends while also keeping an eye on their kid(s).
Because baby sprinkles are usually more casual than baby showers, lighter fare is more than okay.
A charcuterie board that contains a variety of cheeses, meats, olives and nuts is a great way to feed guests at any baby sprinkle. Or, serve a pretty cheese board with specialty cheeses. You can even surprise the parents-to-be with a custom engraved charcuterie board from Left Coast Original (above) for under $50.
Every baby sprinkle needs a dessert with lots of…sprinkles! Serve mini cupcakes or a full-size cake covered with sprinkles in the color of the baby’s nursery or the mom’s favorite color. Consider upping your sprinkle game and getting some gourmet Sprinkle Pop sprinkles from their baby shower collection or create a custom mix.
If the Mom-to-be has had any unique cravings during her pregnancy, try to incorporate them into the sprinkle. If you aren’t sure, ice cream and pickles are always a safe choice! When it comes to drinks, anything goes but make sure that the Mom-to-Be has some tasty, non-alcoholic options. Mocktail Club sells non-alcoholic drinks that are a great choice for any guests who are skipping alcohol. And have some juice on hand for the big siblings in attendance!
For the parents who already have it all, diapers may be the one thing they need. Show up with a pack or two in newborn sizes. To get more creative, make your own diaper cake with a kit from Wilton. Or, order a custom diaper cake from The Honest Company (above) for a striking gift the new baby will definitely use.
Unlike baby showers where the parents-to-be need everything, a baby sprinkle is a great opportunity to chip in and get mom something she wants but is out of her price range. A stroller that converts to a double like the Cybex Gazelle or the UPPAbaby Vista 2 is a great choice. Both can be used immediately as a single, then convert to a double and then back again as the needs of the family change. Or, the Sirona S rotating car seat makes parent's lives easier by twisting to face the car door and then back to be rear- or front-facing will make mom's life so much easier once she is caring for a baby and an older child.
A baby sprinkle is also a great time to get mom something just for her. Try a Beauty Cloud box full of items to help mom pamper herself at home and feel her best in her last weeks of pregnancy and during the sleepless nights after giving birth. Another lux item that will help mom make the most of the time she does get to sleep is a silk pillowcase and eye mask from Silken Pure. For the mom who wants to support other mothers, an Anchor of Hope gift box is full of handmade goods like a raw ruby necklace and a handwoven basket. Items are all made by refugee women, some of whom have been trafficked.
Some baby sprinkles include the older sibling(s) while others do not. Discuss with the expectant parents whether they want to include their other children and how to make the baby sprinkle kid-friendly. Even if children are not a part of the baby sprinkle, it is a good idea to include them in the celebration in some way and send the parents-to-be home with gifts for their other kids so they don't feel left out.
Gifts that help kids feel secure and loved as their family grows are always a good choice. A special, new lovey from Red & Olive (above) that is made to last and comes in fun themes like Foxy Bella Ballerina and Sassy Cat will help toddlers with being apart from their parents during childbirth and after when they have to share their parents' time with the new baby. Boundless Blooms Mindfulness cards teach kids mindfulness and provides affirmations for kids, both of which may come in handy as kids find their family and their role changing. For older kids (6 and up), Big Life Journals include daily activities to help build resilience.
Because kids can never have too many books, some new additions to the family library will be welcome. What on Earth Books teach kids about everything from machines to germs to hidden treasures. They're great for creating new opportunities for parents and kids to snuggle up and read something new together.
Activities that big siblings can do with a parent on their own after the baby arrives are also helpful. Color My Cookie makes fun kits with delicious cookies that kids paint themselves with included edible colors. Choose from themes like dinosaurs and gems. If kids will be included in the baby sprinkle, the company's mini-kits are the perfect addition to the party! And you can never go wrong with a LEGO set or craft-related items from Crayola.
Something that will definitely help a big sibling feel special is a set of matching mommy & me (or baby & me!) pajamas. Kyte Baby makes super-soft pajamas in sizes ranging from newborn to adult, so gifts could include just the big sibling and Mom, just the baby and newly minted big sibling, the whole family or any other creative combination!
Baby sprinkles are typically less structured than baby showers, and that means activities and games are optional. While it’s perfectly fine to skip planned activities altogether, it can be fun to plan one or two.
Instead of traditional games like guessing how many squares of toilet paper will fit around the expectant mom’s belly, try crafting items the new baby will use. Any baby that follows the first is bound to have a lot of hand-me-downs. So spend the baby sprinkle making unique, personalized gifts for the new addition. Put some white onesies or infant towels on a table with fabric markers and stencils and ask guests to decorate them with the new baby’s name or in the colors of the nursery.
For another low-key activity, print out paper with each letter of the alphabet. Place some colored pencils next to the pages and ask guests to personalize a letter with a drawing or word. After the baby sprinkle, laminate the pages and bind them together to make a special and unique ABC book for baby’s library.
If the parents-to-be are already dreading a return to diaper changes, have a basket of diapers and a Sharpie available. Ask guests to write funny sayings on the diapers for parents to find during late-night diaper changes. No matter how sleep-deprived they may be, they won't be able to help but smile when they pull out a diaper that says “One day it will be my turn to change your diaper” or “Code brown!”
We’ve been reading for months now through all kinds of wonderful new books and, thanks mostly to our kids, have narrowed down our top picks for the best children’s books of 2020. From picture books to bedtime stories to graphic novels and chapter books for young readers, all those hours of reading added up to this vetted, mom-and-child-tested list. Read on for our choices.
Board Books & Books for Early Readers
My Favorite Color: I Can Only Pick One?
Candlewick Press
Fans of Aaron Becker's previous stunning board book You Are the Light will love the newest exploration of colors from the Caldecott-Honor-winning author-illustrator.
New York Times-bestselling and NAACP-Award-winning illustrator AG Ford comes together with Tameka Fryer Brown in their new collaboration, Brown Baby Lullaby. Gorgeous illustrations are paired with the sweet lullabye of parents caring for their baby. Using both Spanish and English, this book makes for the perfect bedtime story.
Help your kiddos learn the colors of the rainbow in addition to fine art with the Andy Warhol What Colors Do You See? board book. Using Warhol's signature style and love of color, this simple book brings his masterpieces to your little's fingertips in a fun and easy way. Available Jan. 21.
From activist, professor and father Ibram X. Kendi, this lovely picture book will help you and your kids learn about cultivating a more equitable world by following nine simple steps. We love this new and powerful read; it is filled with thoughtful rhymes and beautiful, bold illustrations.
Out in time for Pride Month (June) this early reader board book is the perfect way to engage kids, especially if you can't attend a Pride Parade this year. "1 Parade in the month of June/2 DJ's spin fabulous tunes." Michael Joosten's rhyming prose is perfectly accompanied by Wednesday Holme's bright illustrations.
Llama Llama is back! In the newest book, your fave character can't find his funny. Where could he be? Kids will love lifting the flap to help Llama find his bedtime bestie. Available Jan. 14.
This adorable new book series comes in a set of four: Equality, Happiness, Imagination and Truth. Each one features a famous philosopher (think Socrates and Simone de Beauvoir) and has vivid, fun illustrations any baby will love. There are also thought-provoking questions that are appropriate for the toddler set, and each book will inspire your tiniest readers to consider their place in the world.
In the sixth book of the This Little series, This Little Dreamer: An Inspirational Primer brings some of the most historic figures to light for young readers. The sweet illustrations share the tales of Mahatma Gandhi, Mother Theresa, Martin Luther King, Jr. and more with age-appropriate facts that are sure to inspire. Available Jan. 14.
The third book in the Tiny Travelers series takes readers on a journey from San Juan to Vieques. Created by a team of parents with multicultural backgrounds, the series promises a celebration of diversity with hidden treasures on every page. Great for kids of all ages, the interactive book is packed full of beautiful illustrations and rhyme-based storytelling.
From the beloved brand Highlights comes a new set of picture books for kids. One, in an A-Z format, this book will show kids all the different ways they can bring a little kindness into the world. Think helping with chores, delivering cookies to a neighbor, standing up for what’s right and more. The other does the same in counting form and featuring a diverse cast of kids and beautiful illustrations, these are both excellent books to read aloud in a classroom or at home before bedtime.
Though we’re not together we’re never truly apart, because you’re always on my mind and you’re always in my heart. This is what a mother tells her child as she leaves for work each day. This lovely board book perfectly captures the sentiment that many women feel about being a working mom. The lyrical text takes us through a mother’s day away, demonstrating that although she’s working hard, her child is always on her mind and always in her heart. Available Mar. 10.
Explore the adorable tiny houses of woodland critters in this interactive board book by Nicola Slater. In it, Alex—an orange tabby cat—visits one house after another, collecting new friends at every stop. At the end of the book, the rabbits, dogs, hedgehogs, squirrels, and bears join Alex outside to play catch with a touch-and-feel big, red ball.
Introduce your toddler to the legendary E.T., with this adorable interactive board book. Help E.T. find the right word to describe what going on in the picture by turning the wheel at the side. From what he likes to eat to what he wants to do with the phone, this sweet dose of nostalgia will be enjoyed by everyone.
Little mole is sad, so his mother takes him out of his dark, underground burrow to search for hope. They find it in flower bulbs that will become daffodils, trees that will grow green leaves in the spring, and a chrysalis where a butterfly will soon emerge. Close your eyes and imagine what's to come, Mama says, showing little mole that there's always hope when you're in a dark place. This sweet lesson shows kids how to endure their own challenges and find hope around them.
Just breathe.... This book provides a guided meditation that shows kids how to focus on their breathing and stay calm even when they have troubling thoughts in their head. Illustrations show how thoughts can feel—flitting like butterflies, stomping like monsters or popping like bubbles—while reassuring kids that even scary thoughts pass and that mindful breathing, just ten deep breaths, can put us at ease.
Jane Ormes' lift the flap board book all about the forest is a perfect addition to any baby or toddler library, and one that teaches more than just shapes or colors. A daddy deer is called a stag, a mommy bear is called a sow, a baby is called a kit. The flaps reveal the different names for baby animals, all accompanied by the woodlandy-cute illustrations that set it apart.
Hello, Elephant!; Hello, Bear! and Hello, Whale! Board Books
Candlewick Press
This large, sturdy board book format with lots of flaps will keep curious kiddos entertained while they learn all about the animals of the African savanna in Hello, Elephant; creatures of the ocean in Hello, Whale and forest friends in Hello, Bear! Author-illustrator sam Boughtons images are reminiscent of Eric Carle, in the best way possible.
Picture Books We Can’t Stop Staring At (& Reading)
Can Bears Ski?
Candlewick Press
This cheerful new book (released in November 2020) introduces readers to deafness and hearing aids in a totally kid-friendly way: Little Bear is having trouble hearing, but doesn't understand what is happening. He just keeps hearing funny phrases, like "Can bears ski?" The author, Raymond Antrobus was diagnosed with deafness at age seven and the illustrator, Polly Dunbar, became hard of hearing in her '20s. The result is a lesson in empathy that aims to destigmatize deafness and an excellent addition to any library, especially a classroom one.
Written by Smiriti Prasadam-Halls with luscious illustrations by David Litchfield, perhaps the author and the publisher both had a premonition about just how important this book would be in 2020. The message is clear, as Dolly Parton will tell you, "If you want rainbows, you gotta' put up with the rain." This beautiful book rhymes its way through a magical world that is full of thunder and clouds and kindness and clarity. This is a great bedtime book, too and though its written for ages 3-7, older kids will get some comfort from it at night as a girl and her fox companion move away from a sorrowful past, through challenges, and into a new tomorrow. Sounds about right, no?
Mexican-artist and author-illustrator Flavia Z. Drago's stunning debut picture book full of bright illustrations that bring to mind gorgeous papel picado paper-cuts as we adventure through Gustavo's world. Gustavo doesn't like to talk much and has trouble making friends, but soon he learns his other gifts are something the world (and his friends) need.
There are a lot of tough times for kids in life, and moving away or losing a friend to a move can be really hard at any age. This beautiful book by Newbery medalist Meg Medina, illustrated by Sonia Sanchez, helps children process more of those big feelings and remember that friendship is in our hearts. This is also a helpful book during these times when playdates are few and far between.
The second book from the author of Jamie Is Jamie: A Book About Being Yourself and Playing Your Way focuses on teaching kids gender-neutral pronouns. Jamie goes on a walk with Bubbie (grandma) and along the way has to correct Bubbie when she assumes genders about some of the people they meet. Includes a special section for parents and educators and makes an excellent gift for any classroom.
Claude is a celebrity alligator and the mascot for San Francisco's California Academy of Sciences. His story started almost 25 years ago in Louisiana, where he hatched out of his egg to discover he looked different from the other hatchlings. They were green and Claude was white. The other hatchings avoided him, and his color made him vulnerable to predators. So Claude went to a special zoo that cared for alligators where he lived in a pen by himself. Now he was safe—but alone. Find out what happens to Claude in this wonderful new book by Emma Bland Smith.
With a can-do attitude, Cor Cor shows that with enough determination anything is possible. Cor Cor's readers learn about places around the world, as he explores exciting destinations from his wheelchair. Whether admiring the northern lights in Iceland or meeting kangaroos in Australia, no adventure is off-limits.
As a wheelchair user that has visited all seven continents, co-author Cory Lee always wanted to read a book that he could relate to while growing up. Collaborating with his mom, co-author Sandy Gilbreath, they created this children’s picture book to show that the possibilities for all children are limitless, regardless of their abilities.
Part fairy-tale, part woodland adventure, author-illustrator Lucy Fleming will transport your kiddos to a forest family of creatures work together to make one little, tiny person's dream comes true. Celebrates the power of generosity and helping those who may have an issue they are dealing with (Ella can't go out in the day). It also makes an utterly beautiful bedtime read.
With bright watercolor illustrations, this book tells the story of how an imaginative lion named Guion shows his friends how to see magic in their everyday world. Inspired by the author's three kids, including her oldest with Down syndrome, the book shows readers how to change their perspective and find a little magic in their own lives too. The book ends with suggestions for fun activities for families to play together, building on the themes in the book.
The shoulders on the drag queen go shimmy, shimmy, shimmy...all through the town.
Fans of Drag Queen Story Hours around the country will love this book from Lil' Miss Hot Mess, one of the first Queens to host DQSH. Bright, playful illustrations by Olga de Dios add the perfect touch to this update on the classic "wheels on the bus" song that aims to teach little kids everywhere...there's nothing wrong with a little swish in your step.
Mom and author Sara Olsher wrote the book she wished she could have given her own daughter while they navigated her own divorce. Written with clear words and bright illustrations, this book shows kids that even though divorce is scary, it is something lots of families get through. Olsher's life mission is to help little people through tough times, including how to talk to kids about a parent's cancer diagnosis and the coronavirus.
Clarissa the cottage doesn't want to be adorable, she wants to be scary like her parents, a witch's hut and a creepy castle! Told in lyrical stanzas, Clarissa embarks on a journey to learning to be her very best self.
A beautiful, empowering picture book from Meena Harris about two sisters who work with their community to effect change, inspired by a true story from the childhood of the author’s aunt, Kamala Harris, and mother, lawyer and policy expert Maya Harris.
This story about a little girl who is very close with her grandma and the girl's experience as her grandma's dementia progresses. It is an excellent child's eye view of this often confusing and heartbreaking disease and a great tool for parents and caregivers to engage kids in the conversation of aging, dementia and alzheimers.
Geisel Honor Winner Kara LeReau teamed up with Caldecott Medal winning illustrator Matthew Cordell to introduce readers to "the newest star in the circus: Baby Clown!" Frieda and Boffo clown's little make-up ready clown is adorable, but he's also not very happy. Laugh out loud as Baby Clown cries his way through the circus acts, diaper changes, feedings and nap. As any parent can attest, though, the show must go on. Find out how on Apr. 14.
The true story of Mohammad Alaa Aljaleel, a man who, in the midst of the on-going Syrian civil war, managed to find and offer safe haven to dozens and dozens of abandoned pet cats. A somber but important book that offers kids’ a glance at the effects of war, this inspiring tale is accompanied by wonderful illustrations.
"When work is done, it's time for FUN!" Explore the forest, the canyon, fields and more beyond the job site where these adorable dinosaur-equipment characters find out that fun can mean work (and work can be fun!). Written and illustrated by Michael Whaite.
Meet Cornelius J. Sparklesteed. He has a secret. He’s a unicorn!! He also lives in Hoofington, where lots of nasty rumors about unicorns get passed around. They’ve gone so far as to announce that unicorns aren’t welcome. So, Cornelius designs fabulous hats to conceal his secret, and along the way, garners the admiration of friends and even the mayor! This shiny, sparkly book is a delightful read, and more importantly, shows that sometimes, different isn’t just weird, it’s AWESOME.
Little Meg has a unique skill; she can build almost anything out of cardboard. She enjoys the maker spotlight until one day she meets Simone, who shares the same abilities. This book follows their antics as they try to out-construct each other. DIY directions for some of Meg's favorite creations are included at the back of the book.
When debut author Angela Joy set out to teach her children their first Black History lesson she was not expecting her preschooler to say, "But Mama, we're not black, we're brown." It was then that she realized that she wanted her children, and all children, to understand that being Black was about culture as much as color. And so Black Is a Rainbow Color was born. Vibrant, stained-glass like artwork by Coretta-Scott King Award-winning illustrator Ekua Holmes accompanies Joy's poetic text as we join a little girl on a journey to discover all the wonderful things that Black is.
"Black is the robe of Thurgood's back. Black are the trains on railroad tracks. Black are the eyes on salted peas. Black are the shadows of ooo-old magnolia trees."
Includes a suggested playlist as well as an expanded explanation of the historical references in the text to allow parents to explain Black history to their kids. It's an exceptionally designed, written and thoughtful new book appropriate for kids of all ages and ethnicities. We can't wait to see what Joy does next. Available Jan. 14.
Ages: Suggested age, 4-8, but we think even older kids can benefit from this book due to the important historical talking points in the back of the book
This incredibly compelling book written by Thomas Harding and illustrated by Britta Teckentrup tells "The True Story of a House, Its History, and the Four Families Who Made It Home" and follows the history of a house taken from a family by the Nazis. Though it could end there, the author continues to tell the story of the new families who came to live in the walls and make it a happy home over the years. A deeply moving reminder of the sorrow of loss and the hope of new beginnings.
Fred is bound to make school less boring. The creative boy decides that his teacher is a robot, and takes his friends on a fantastical journey that only the wildly imaginative mind of a child can do.
While this book is technically a Kickstarter campaign (ends April 19), we just had to share. A beautiful collection of 30 stories about kids from all over the world, it includes fun facts and activities that help bring each culture to life. Available now for pre-order, books will be shipped in November—which makes this a perfect holiday gift.
If you read Jessica Love's Julián Is a Mermaid, a beautiful book about gender identity and acceptance, you'll love Julián at the Wedding. Just as gorgeously illustrated, this time we find Julián and his abuela heading to a wedding where Julián is in the wedding party. He makes a new friend and together they enjoy the beauty and enchantment of a magical wedding. A wonderful view of how young children see love and another homerun for acceptance and individuality that every family should own.
Author-illustrator Deborah Marcero brings us a beautifully illustrated picture book about the beauty of ordinary things and the magic of young friendships. Little bunny Llewellyn is a collector of ordinary things, "like buttercups, feathers, and heart-shaped stones" along with cherry colored sunsets and the shadows of summer with his friend, Evelyn. But when Evelyn moves away, they stay connected in a most magical way. Each page delights with "jars" of illustrations your children will love discovering. Available Jan. 21.
The first picture book from renowned astrophysicist Ray Jayawardhana is a delight. Set as a poem, Child of the Universe is a sweet meditation on the fact that from the literal stardust that makes our bodies to the atoms that connect us, we are all connected to the universe and to one another. (Available March 17)
Your child's Spanish will be muy bien thanks to this picture book that introduces common Spanish words organized by categories including animals, body parts, food, colors, numbers, household objects and more. The words are introduced with kid-friendly images that make learning both informative and enjoyable.
This remarkable biographical picture book, written by Lisa Robinson and illustrated by Rebecca Green, introduces young readers to one of the trailblazing women of the circus arts! In revolutionary France, a young girl named Marguerite dreamed of becoming a tightrope dancer, and she dazzled from the young age of nine, going on to garner the admiration of crowds. She became known as Madame Saqui. This is her remarkable story!
If the adorable illustrations from award-winning artist Miguel Ordóñez (Jimmy Fallon’s Your Baby’s First Word Will Be Dada) don’t draw you in, then the funny, lively prose and the smattering of Spanish words thrown into this twist on a classic fairy tale by author Susan Middleton Elya will. There’s even a glossary of words at the front for kids to reference.
The dreamy watercolor wash of a magical undersea world comes to life in Anna Pignataro's The Heart of a Whale, the story of a whale whose beautiful song calms all the aquatic creatures and whose lonely sigh calls out to another whale across the sea. Enchanting, magical and incredibly sweet. Available Jan. 28.
This just-published book by Janet Sumner Johnson, illustrated by Courtney Dawson, is for every kid who has ever had a parent too busy to read a bedtime story. When it happens to Shailey, she takes matters into her own hands. She fires her dad, posts a help wanted sign and the offers start rolling in…from her favorite fairytale characters. Find out who winds up reading bedtime stories to Shailey when you sit down to read this cute book with your crew.
Fred's Big Feelings: The Life and Legacy of Mister Rogers
Simon & Schuster
This picture-book biography by Laura Renauld, illustrated by Brigette Barrager, reminds us all of one of the purveying messages from Mister Rogers Neighborhood and Fred Rogers' life: it's okay to have feelings. The book takes us from his childhood finding his feelings through the piano, his grandfather McFeely's unconditional love, the feeling of gaining confidence in high school by being compassionate, through the feeling that children's television was conveying the wrong message: and Fred's feeling that he should change it. This book teaches kids not only about Fred Rogers life and legacy, but also to express and embrace their own feelings. Available Jan. 14.
Ages: 4-8 (but we grown-ups really enjoyed it, too!)
Helena Ku Rhee's wonderful new picture book tells the story of little Daniel, whose parents work as night janitors, usually while he sleeps. When the babysitter can't make it, Daniel has to go along with his parents to the big glass building they clean. Little does he know it is the land of the Paper King. Inspired by Rhee's own parents, this is the story of hardwork and imagination, and a reminder to be kind. Beautifully illustrated by Pascal Campion.
The democratic process comes to the jungle with this debut picture book by Brazilian authors Paula Desgualdo & Pedro Markun and illustrators André Rodrigues & Larissa Ribeiro. Yes, Lion is the King but when his selfish behavior causes his subjects to dissent, they decide it's time to hold an election. Each candidate campaigns with their unique attributes: Sloth, Snake, Monkey and more all bring something new to the table. A great way to teach kids about elections in a non-partisan way.
Penned by Sharon Langley, the famously photographed African-American who rode a carousel at Baltimore's Gwynn Oak Amusement Park in 1963, this beautifully illustrated book tells the story of peacefully fighting for equality.
Katarina's dreams are bigger than city life. The ten-year-old has it in her heart to become the best: a prima ballerina. Despite not having any training, Katarina sets out to win a coveted spot in an international dance camp that is sure to make her a start.
"When someone opens a door to you, go forward." Young Frances Perkins spent her life heeding the wise words her grandmother taught her as a little girl. Kathleen Krull's The Only Woman in the Photo tells the story of Frances Perkins, the first woman to ever sit on a presidential cabinet. Perkins became Franklin D. Roosevelt's trusted advisor, and it is Perkins you can thank for such things as child labor laws, unemployment insurance and social security. Illustrations by Alexandra Bye bring the life and times of this persistent, fearless trailblazer to life.
Olympia, Washington-based paper artist, Nikki McClure, released this beautiful book about the power of creativity and community at the end of February. It follows a family for a day in a small town, wondering with each turn of the page, what these hands will make. Will they make a fiddle? Fire from a stack of wood? How about a beautiful bouquet or a house for swallows? McClure’s recognizable art showcases the potential of each possible creation in the most compelling way.
A beautiful picture book based on the life and journey of who most consider the father of modern art. This lovely work follows the life of the painter Paul Cézanne, who never gave up, even when the Parisian critics rejected his work, never gave up his mission to be a great painter, and was always evolving in style and technique. And yes, he really did have a parrot!
Geraldine and the Most Spectacular Science Project
Geraldine is a spunky second-grade student who loves science but sometimes has a hard time paying attention in class. When her teacher announces the science contest, she’s determined to take the prize. With lots of hard work, a pile of everyday stuff, and tons of confidence (she doesn’t let her fellow students' whispers get her down), Geraldine creates something truly amazing. A great story for kids who like to dream. (Available Feb 28th)
Beautifully illustrated with charcoal, ink and watercolor, this sweet story about the friendship between a young girl and a bison evolves into a tender tale of loss and the passage of time. Ultimately, the girl learns that the bison will always be in her heart, so this may be a good story to help a young reader understand the loss of a loved one.
Learn the true, amazing story of young Peter Wetzel, whose family attempts to escape East Germany in 1979 in a homemade hot air balloon. The story explains, in kid-friendly terms, about the differences between East Germany and West Germany and how his family and close friends prepare to risk their lives for the promise of a better one.
Introduce your modern kid to the world of reporting and writing for an independent newspaper. Join Nellie, the new kid in Bear Creek, Maine (and the daughter of two newspaper veterans), as she strives to uncover who’s behind the recent attacks of vandalism. She’ll need a whole crew of journalists, who might, in the end, end up being new friends too.
The Spirit of Springer: The Real-Life Rescue of an Orphaned Orca
This newly released book, by author Amanda Abler and illustrator Levi Hastings, details the real-life rescue of Springer, a northern resident orca found swimming alone in Puget Sound in 2002. The book immerses kids in the thrilling details of the heroic rescue and even follows up with Springer in the present.
This alphabet book stars women artists including iconic painters like Georgia O’Keefe and Frida Kahlo but also puts the spotlight on lesser-known artists like Mirka Mora, Judith Leyster and more. Each page has a short explanation of the works that define each artist (for example, legendary photographer Dorthea Lange is X is for EXposure), and if older kids want to learn more, the back pages have extended biographies. Beautiful illustrations complete this lovely picture book that's bookshelf worthy.
Exploring the Elements: A Complete Guide to the Periodic Tables
Phaidon
We're not gonna' lie, with all of this at-home schooling parents can use all the help they can get and this smart, well-designed book will give any kid (and their parents) a little guidance when it comes to the basics of chemistry. Written by Isabel Thomas and illustrated by Sara Gillingham. It's like the textbook you wish you'd had as a student.
A ghostly, fantastical tale written and illustrated by Irish author P.J. Lynch, this picture book for older readers is full of ghosts, love and an underwater world that is both haunting and beautiful. It reads like an ancient story someone once whispered to you as you walked the shores, and yet is completely new.
The subtitle says it all in this brightly illustrated (William Luong) book by author Mifflin Lowe: Real Stories about Black Cowboys, Women Sharpshooters, Native American Rodeo Stars, Pioneering Vaqueros, and the Unsung Explorers, Builders, and Heroes Who Shaped the American West.
Engaging, full of awesome pictures and rich with historic info every kid (and their parents) should learn.
Not your average reference book, author Jules Howard presents a thorough investigation of the wonder of bones in this hardcover volume with insanely-amazing illustrations by Chervelle Fryer, who manages to be both scientifically accurate and aesthetically pleasing at the same time. Seriously, you'll wish you could frame this whole book. The added bonus? Kids will learn all about bones and skeletons, from horses to flying foxes to penguins. The book is arranged by "type" of animal: jumping, flying, running, swimming, etc. A must-buy for any kid's reference library.
A seek and find book with a beautifully simplistic and minimal approach, Jorrien Peterson's new work is a can't miss. Kids will learn about nine unique biomes (naturally occurring communities), what makes them special, be challenged to find specific flora and fauna and answer a question at the end of each "lesson."
Shannon Hale and Dean Hale's beloved character is back to try to solve the "big problem," a noisy stomping giant. The eighth book in this New York Times bestselling series, the illustrations by LeUyen Pham are just as important to telling the story as the Hale's well-crafted words. A perfect first-chapter book series.
This graphic novel written by Matthew Cody and illustrated by Yoshi Yoshitani features young Zatanna, daughter of a magician but don't be fooled. It's a very in-depth story about a young girl—mourning her mother and being bullied in school—who embarks on an utterly fantastical adventure through a house of secrets, full of riddles, enemies, unexpected friends and the afterlife.
Dav Pilkey's latest in the Dog Man series is full of laughs, as per usual. This time, Dog Man turns in his badge and resigns his post. Will he get back on the force? Read it to find out!
This fun graphic novel follows a tween Diana (aka Wonder Woman) on the island of Themyscira. As the only child on the island, she faces bouts of loneliness and ends up trying to make a friend, with unintended consequences. Featuring strong female protagonists and vivid illustrations, this is a great choice for early elementary-school kids.
Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls: 100 Immigrant Women Who Changed the World i
Rebel Girls
This wonderful collection by Elena Favilli, the third in the Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls series, covers famous immigrant women from Josephine Baker to Rhianna. In the signature style, it is beautifully illustrated by women artists from around the world and full of relatable stories and facts for rebel kids to learn about these fierce and awesome women.
Retired pirates! Secret Codes! Witches! Sea Monsters! If that isn't enough to entice you to read this heavily illustrated chapter book, the fact that Warren the 13th is full of puzzles and riddles just might. In this adventure, we find Warren managing his family's floating hotel and planning his 13th birthday party. In this final adventure for Warren, part of a three-book series, Author Tania Del Rio's and illustrator Will Staehle bring us one of the most entertaining and unique books of 2020.
Ages: 10-12
Buy it now. $12
Chapter Books We Love
Tristan Strong Destroys the World (Tristan Strong Book 2)
Penguin Random House
Part of Rick Riordan Presents, this book blows just about every other book of its kind out of the water with humor, history and some seriously amazing and heart-touching themes including children facing trauma, in a way that is perfectly relatable to young readers. Tristan, who has returned from his previous epic adventure to the land of African-American folk heroes (Alke) with PTSD, is forced to return to Alke—this time to rescue beloved grandma! Themes of resilience are interwoven artfully with loveable heroes (like Gum Baby, Tristan's other world sidekick) and larger-than-life characters. Our editor's son, who poured through every Rick Riordan and Rick Riordan Presents book written to date, said this is by far one of his favorite books of the year.
Aru Shah and the Tree of Wishes (Pandava Series, Book 3)
Penguin Random House
If the Tristan Strong is our editor's son's favorite this year, Aru Shah is a close second. Another series in the Rick Riordan presents, now 14-year-old Aru Shah returns to the Otherworld from books 1 & 2, based on characters and the landscape from the epic Hindu poem, the Mahabharata, this time to help a captive clairvoyant. The richness of voice and humor is present throughout.
When a child goes through a divorce, many things change. When ten-year-old Bea's parents tell her they are getting a divorce, they present her with a list of the things that will not change, including their love for her. Follow Bea as she navigates her big feelings as her dad remarries, and things definitely change, yet always returning to that list of things that don't, which author Rebecca Stead navigates artfully and age-appropriately.
The eagerly awaited new book from Rick Riordan (and the final in the Trials of Apollo) series does not disappoint with all of your favorite characters and monsters together for an epic conclusion, masterfully and hilariously written by one of the best incredible-adventure telling, middle grade authors to grace our shelves since Tolkien. (Yeah, we read Tolkien in middle school! #booknerds).
The Quest for the Crystal Crown (The Story Pirates Present)
Random House
Based on an original idea by a real kid! The third book in The Story Pirates Presents series, it's like two books in one. The first part is the story about an enchanted city, and the second part of the book is all about how to create your own fantasy adventure, including creative writing tips and tricks.
This beautiful book kicks off a new series by Newbery Honor author Amy Timberlake, illustrated by beloved artist and Caldecott medalist Jon Klassen (I Want My Hat Back, The Dark, and others). In Skunk and Badger (Skunk and Badger Book 1) we are introduced to a classic new odd-couple that will quickly grab your kiddos' hearts.
This is the second middle grade novel from Bay Area author Mae Respicio and it is full of Filipino folklore, history and cuisine. Any Day with You is a warm, tender story about a creative girl who hopes that by winning a filmmaking contest, she’ll convince her great-grandfather not to move back home to the Philippines.
New in January of 2020, author Tiffany Jewell aims to dismantle racism by helping readers understand the origins of racism, current racism in our society and how to stand up against racial oppression. Each chapter builds on the previous one as you learn more about yourself and racial oppression and it includes 20 powerfully effective activities to get you thinking and help you learn and grow.
Recommended age: The publisher list ages 11+ but we think every family should own a copy of this and read it together.
Ramona Quimby gets a modern update with Ryan Hart and her middle-class family. Newberry Honor and Coretta Scott King Author Award winner Renée Watson starts a new chapter book series for budding readers with Ways to Make Sunshine. The intro novel follows Ryan as she navigates family that includes her dad finding a job after a long period of unemployment, school and self-image. No matter what she faces, Ryan knows how to make sunshine out of any situation.
Sandy Stark-McGinnis' second middle school novel offers a hopeful yet heart wrenching story of a young girl dealing with her mother's early onset Alzheimer's diagnosis. Cassie and her dad are handling all the new changes quite well until Mom forgets Cassie's name, and she struggles to stay connected to friends and her art. Tough topics abound in this middle grade story that follows Cassie as she decides to break one of her dad's rules to make her mom happy.
Imagine a world where girls loved their body just as it is. Love Your Body, a new book by Jessica Sanders strives to make this a reality. With “imperfect” illustrations, this book helps show girls that their bodies are powerful instruments, rather than just an object. It covers all shapes and sizes, what happens with puberty hits, and even has tips and tricks that may help girls feel better about themselves.
Dark Hedges, Wizard Island, and Other Magical Places That Really Exist
Readers will learn all about mysterious and mystical places that really exist, like The Skeleton Coast, The Fairy Tale Route and even the Lost City of Petra. Piquing the interest of budding and seasoned travelers alike, this is an ideal book to read with kids who are curious about all the unusual things out in the big wide world.
Billed as 5 bookzzz in 1, Tedd Arnold's popular Fly Guy Presents series including Sharks, Dinosaurs, Insects, Bats and Snakes, are compiled into one book. In each chapter, Fly Guy and Buzz introduce kids to these "scary" animals with facts, photos and Fly Guy commentary.
If your kid likes the Wimpy Kid series, this new set of stories might be right up his alley. Meet Iggy. He's a mischevious kid who will go through a series of doing bad things, from kinda bad to really bad. Then he'll deal with the consequences. Told with a dry wit and including plenty of fun illustrations, this easy chapter book is perfect for kids mastering their reading skills.
Part choose-your-own-adventure, part mystery, part activity book, the newest book in the Escape This Book series by author Bill Doyle and illustrator Sarah Sax will have your kids reading, laughing, drawing and puzzling out an "escape route" from an Egyptian tomb by choosing one of three paths. Educational and interactive, this might be the best book for travel we've seen in ages.
Diary of a 5th Grade Outlaw: The Friend Thief Book 2
Epic Originals
Head back to Nottingham Elementary for another adventure! Robin is happy to be "back together" with her BFF after "winning" her back from the schoolyard bully, Nadia. But Nadia starts to win over the other kids including Robin's bestie. The second book in this Robin Hood inspired series, find the first one here. Written by Gina Loveless, illustrated by Andrea Bell.
In the vein of books like Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls, this illustrated book aims to empower and inspire kids by telling incredible stories of courage, ingenuity and deep commitment of kids who have changed (and are changing) the world. Amy Blackwell's rich illustrations accompany author Amandi Li's account of true-life tales of 29 incredible, ordinary kids including activist Great Thunberg, shark-attack survivor and surfer Bethany Hamilton, football (soccer) star Pelé, and more.
Small & Mighty: An Activist's Guide for Finding Your Voice & Engaging with the World
Gibbs Smith
Filled with six activity-packed chapters, this interactive journal encourages young people to find and share their voice. Young activists will find checklists, stickers, worksheets, and introspective activities that will encourage them to think about their future and the world around them.
Ages: 9-14
Get it here, $16.99; Find Girl Almighty: An Interactive Journal for Being a Mighty Activist of the World & Other Utterly Respectable Pursuits here, $16.99
A Girl, A Raccoon, and the Midnight Moon
Chronicle Books
Karen Romano Young introduces readers to a group of kid (and raccoon) activists who are fighting to save their local library. If that fact alone isn't enough to get you reading (raccoon activists! library lovers!) her frequent references to Edna St. Vincent Millay, delightful footnotes, and magically-infused writing should do it. Classic illustrations by Jessixa Bagley's add even more enchantment to the pages.
From first-time author J.M.M Nuanez comes a story about a girl named Jack and her gender non-confirming little brother Birdie. A beautifully written tale about loss, sibling relationships, and how love and understanding can grow and thrive, even for the most unexpected families. Strong characters and flowing prose make this stunning debut a must-read book for 2020.
We Had to Be Brave: Escaping the Nazis on the Kindertransport
Harrowing real-life stories come to life in award-winning author Debrah Hopkinson’s non-fiction retelling of families torn apart by Nazi Germany. With interviews, photos and detailed research, Hopkinson approaches what might be, for middle-grade kids, their first non-fiction account of the rise of Adolf Hitler and the Holocaust, with incredible details and readable prose. An important contribution to YA literature.
Before Hermione and Katniss, there were brilliant queens, clever villagers and brave girls who were saving the world around them—even if you’ve never heard their stories. Now is their chance to shine in this lovely collection of folktales from China, Russia, Persia, India, France, Germany and more. These strong protagonists are ideal role models for young girls.
As an Indian American girl in a small town, Lekha hides her differences and avoids confrontation so she won't get teased. But when a new Indian girl moves in across the street, she teaches Lekha about prejudice, pride in her culture and the power of her own voice.
Lotta, Egg, Fenna, Sem, and Milou are orphans in 19th century Amsterdam. In all the years that Little Tullip Orphanage headmistress Elinora Gassbeek has been in charge, she's never seen more unusual arrivals than that of these five. Each with mysterious beginnings, all with unique character, they become known as "the unadoptables." When they unearth a villainous plan from their apparent adopted patron, they escape together into the frozen streets and canals of Amsterdam. What follows is the discovery of who they are and where they came from. With delightful prose and an excellent plot, readers will be captived until the last page of this fantastic debut by author Hana Tooke.
When her father gets sick, 12-year-old Piper is sent to live at her grandmother's house. The grand estate and its garden hold many secrets: Who are the mysterious children who live on the property? And is Piper's grandmother really a witch? Piper needs answers to help heal her father.
From Newbery Award-winning novelist Mildred D. Taylor comes the end of the Logan family saga that began with Song of the Trees and Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry. In All the Days Past, Cassie Logan is all grown up and trying to find her place in the world. Her journey takes her to Toledo, California, law school in Boston and finally, back to Mississippi in the '60s to help with voter registration. She will be witness to the rise of the civil rights movement, which is preceded by racist American white society, and the often violent confrontations that bring about historical change.
America's Test Kitchen has just released their newest book, My First Cookbook and its one for every little up and coming chef. The photo-focused book introduces kitchen language, equipment, helpful kitchen prep and tons of step-by-step instructions that littles (and cooking-challenged adults) will adore. Enjoy simple and delicious recipes for appetizers and snacks, main meals, seasonal goodies and international recipes.
Perfect for budding bakers, The Llamacorn Cookbook's bright photos and easy recipes will inspire everyone. The 96-page book shares 45 recipes, many of which use store bought items to make cooking easy and fun––especially for parents. Kiddos can whip up Llamacorn's Meringue Cookies, Enchanged Unicorn Horns and Lah-Tee-Dah Pink Limeade and plenty more whimsical treats.
The Peanuts gang is here to spice up your kiddos lunch! Packed with over 50 recipes and 60+ comic strips, this fun cookbook puts a fun twist on kid-friendly recipes, sneaking in a fair amount of fruit and veggies in the process.
Over 60 royal recipes await in the new Disney Princess Baking cookbook. With categories that include morning treat, cakes, bars, cookies, pies and tarts, this comprehensive baker's book is great for budding chefs. While the recipes are a little more complex for a beginner, they make the perfect challenge for kiddos looking to up their skills.
Get ready to dive into your next adventure. JuJuBe just released its latest tokidoki collaboration, Sea Amo 2.0. The whimsical, underwater print is featured on JuJuBe’s diaper bags, backpacks, totes, organizing cubes and much more.
Sea Amo 2.0 by tokidoki x JuJuBe features a pale blue background, funky underwater sea-creatures and colorful hidden treasures along with a few fun additions. Sea Amo 2.0 is refreshed with cool blue lining that matches the exterior swimmingly and updated with one cute collectible zipper pull per bag.
Sea Amo Blind Boxes (sold separately) will help make your zipper pull collection complete.
Are you ready for an adventure? With a total of $10 million dollars in cash spread out across 10 states, The Blackbeard Treasure is launching the only treasure hunt of its kind on a scale this large. In California, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Michigan, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Texas, there will be hidden and buried across cities and towns one treasure in each state containing $1 million in cash.
The Blackbeard Treasure hunters will be given a digital map to download, clues, and riddles—all of which will lead to the treasure chest. To join the treasure hunt, participants must purchase a map on The Blackbeard Treasure website. Each map costs $49.99, and only a limited number of maps will be sold for each treasure chest. Treasure maps will be available for purchase starting Aug. 8, 2020.
“With The Blackbeard Treasure hunt, our goal is to get people excited about getting outside, either by themselves or with friends and family, in order to have the adventure of a lifetime,” said Justin Cohen, managing director of The Blackbeard Treasure. “And in the process of having the time of your life, you may just unearth a fortune.”
Each treasure chest contains $1 million in cash, a location beacon, and a hidden camera pointed at the precise location of the chest. Once the treasure chests are found, the winners will remove the key taped to the side of the chest, and open it. Inside, the winners will find their treasure money and a phone number to call to officially claim their treasure.
Additionally, starting Nov. 21, The Blackbeard Treasure will be following and filming select treasure hunters on their journey in search of the hidden treasures. They will be featured on an upcoming reality show, titled The Hunt for Blackbeard’s Treasure. The company is currently in negotiations with three networks in regards to airing the show.
Have a kid with a birthday coming up and hoping to safely celebrate by having the party outside? Taking to the outdoors for a party is a popular option right now, and many NYC businesses and birthday entertainers are adapting, bringing al fresco fun to parties. From outdoor manicures and animal shows to clowns, games, puppet shows and more, we found lots of ways to have an outdoor birthday party in NYC for kids. Read on to start planning the big day!
Of course, your activities and their intensity will vary depending on your age group, but here is some inspiration and general good things to have when holding a bday outside.
Pink Princess Nails will bring the spa to you in the form of these chic teepees. A six-hour rental for eight kids is $450, and is available anywhere in the Bronx, Manhattan, and Westchester County/White Plains, New York. Pink Princess Nails also has a Mobile Spa Party option for the same rate, if you prefer a non-teepee option.
Let's Roam will take kids on a scavenger hunt in the backyard or a nearby park. (Or even in your apartment.) Kids will complete exciting challenges, go on mini-quests, and find hidden treasures that are right in front of their eyes. Pricing starts at $14.99 for the park/backyard scavenger hunt, recommended for up to 10 kids. If you have more attendees, a custom hunt is recommended, you can also choose a custom hunt to make it extra personal.
Federally-licensed animal handler Nick Jacinto (AKA "Nature Nick") will come to you in his wild RV for a 45-minute outdoor show featuring 10 or so animals such as an owl, baby alligator, toucan, hedgehog, turtles, etc. He employs sanitary protocols that are in line with current CDC recommendations, and is routinely tested for COVID-19. (Wanna see his results? no prob.) He also wears a mask and shoe coverings when setting up, breaking down, and when the animals are brought over for each child to pet. Hand sanitizer is provided to all of the children as well. Plus: birthday kids get a signed copy of his book or a stuffed animal. Parties are $2,000 for up to 25 kids.
Popular Kensington/Windsor Terrace karate studio Blitz Dojo will get the kids moving and kicking with karate basics and fun games in Prospect Park or, if you live in the area and have the room, at your outdoor space. Parties are 90 minutes for 15 kids and cost $350, with $10 for each additional child. If you want them to handle food and favors, it's $550.
A creative and educational hub in Hunters Point/Long Island City, PLAYDAY NYC has a big outdoor space out back. Host everything from a classic bday party (see the Cat in the Hat party above, complete with character appearance and pinata) to a "Large Scale Still Life" painting party with kids creating masterpieces based on huge, fruity pool floats. (Super fun!) Or enlist PLAYDAY in dreaming up another outdoor creative activity for your party—they can help! Cost is $550 for 10 children.
5-37 51st Ave. Hunters Point 917-854-3269 Online: playdaynyc.com
For a Yoga Party
Yogi Beans
Yogi Beans brings the fun to an outdoor party in the form of a unique birthday class with structured yoga activities, a choose-your-own-theme adventure, and personalized music. One or two instructors lead a 45-60 minute class for kids ages three and up. Maximum number of kids is 12; mats are not provided. Cost is $350 for one instructor.
Silly Billy is a veteran NYC children's entertainer, who's been making kids laugh for more than two decades. (He also recently received an AMA Performing Fellowship, the highest honor a magician can receive in the U.S., and was named 2019 “Magician of the Year” by the N.Y. Society of American Magicians.) His show is tailored to kids ages three to eight, and there's no minimum or max for a headcount. His starting rate is $400 for a 40 minute show, and he performs throughout NYC.
Private Picassos has been doing outdoor Art Birthday Parties for over 14 years, so they're ready for your request! Party packages include an hour long art activity (with all materials, set-up and clean-up), Private Picassos' balloons, gift bags to transport artwork home and a complimentary private art lesson for the birthday boy or girl. Choose from Watercolor Painting, Collagraph Printmaking, Mixed Media Clay Sculptures and many more projects—they can even customize a project just for you. Parties start at $40/child and are available throughout NYC, Westchester and parts of Long Island for kids ages two and up.
Traipse among the trees at The Adventure Park at Long Island, a ropes and zipline course in the sky. For a real bargain, book a weekday party, when a group of six can play for two hours for $222; weekends are $294 for six people. (Parties can be up to 15, pay about $40 per additional climber.) The guest of honor also gets an Adventure Park gift. (P.S. find more ziplines around NYC here!)
Adventure Park at Long Island 75 Colonial Springs Rd. Wheatley Heights, NY 613-983-3844 Online: longislandadventurepark.org
For a Funky Puppet Show for Little Ones
Puppetsburg
A fun and funky take on your classic puppet show, Puppetsburg is great for kids five and younger. Outdoor parties are available in Manhattan and Brooklyn, and feature either one or two performers in a lively, interactive show with dancing, music, bubbles and more. Customize your show for an additional fee. Availability varies by neighborhood, with solo shows starting at $300, and parties with two performers starting at $400.
You can have a horse or pony rides at kid's birthday party a variety of ways in NYC.
Rent a pony for an hour from Brooklyn's Kensington Stables for $195-$250 (price varies by location). If you can have your party in Prospect Park near the Bridle Path, it's just $125. Click here for more info.
The Bronx Equestrian Center offers pony rides and a party area for $300 for two hours on site, and trail rides are also available. Click here for more info.
The Jamaica Bay Riding Academy does parties for kids (minimum 12 guests). Parties are 90 minutes, with 45 minutes for rides. Cost is $45 per person. Click here for more info.
Hudson River Park's Pier 25 is home to an 18-hole miniature golf course, perfect for birthday fun. Its Mini-Golf Party package includes 20 games of Mini-Golf, as well as 1.5 hours of table seating for up to 20 guests. Party seating is set up just outside of the mini-golf area. (The course remains open to the public during the party.) You can also add on pizza: order either five or 10 fresh-made pies for an additional cost. Rates are $5 for kids 12 and under; $10 for everyone else. Click here to book.
Head to Turtle Cove Golf Center on City Island for a rousing round of mini golf! Parties are for up to 10 kids, ages 12 and under. Parties includes: five wood-fired pizzas, water, ice cream and golfing. Price is $150.00 plus tax. Contact info@turtlecovegolfcenter.com to book.
Throw a backyard party without having to organize it yourself! Boom Kidz is hosting two-hour outdoor birthday parties for small groups. Every party package includes pizza, a birthday cake, balloons, a present for the birthday child, temporary tattoos, and someone to host the party so the adults can sit back and relax. One party of 12 kids costs $485 and fun upgrades are available at an additional cost, including the option to book additional guests, a themed table setup, pinatas, cotton candy, activities and performances like face painting and mascot performers, and much more.
Boom Kidz 4878 Arthur Kill Rd Staten Island Online: boomkidz.net
For Theater Fun
Child's Play NY
Child's Play NY creates customized birthday parties, with party games tailored to fit a theme based on your child's favorite books, shows and music. (Frozen? The Lion King? SpongeBob SquarePants?) Theater teachers bring improvisation and play to a whole new level, while also making the birthday kid the star of the day. With a focus on imagination and creativity, these parties throw a spotlight (get it?) on good old-fashioned games and play. Parties with 75 minutes of games and activities starts at $400 for up to 10 kids; kids remain socially-distanced during the party. Areas served are Manhattan's Upper West Side & Upper East Side, as well as Prospect Park, Carroll Gardens and Brooklyn Heights in Brooklyn.
Mayor Lori E. Lightfoot, with her glorious sense of humor, has brought a good amount of much-needed giggles to Chicago in a time when smiles can be hard to muster. Her newly launched Stay Home. Hit Play. weekly educational video series will make her more visible and accessible to Chicago students and families—something we LOVE! Read on to hear how you can invite our city’s leader into your family room and have just a little more Mayor Lightfoot in your life.
The Details
Mayor Lightfoot’s series, in collaboration with Citadel, will bring engaging, educational programming from Chicago’s cultural gems to students across the city. Every Wednesday, viewers will go behind the scenes with the Mayor at the city’s museums and cultural institutions.
Where Will She Visit?
Museum curators and staff, along with Mayor Lightfoot, will lead virtual tours of their most popular exhibits and share hidden treasures not typically seen by the average museum-goer. You’ll see places like Shedd Aquarium, the Field Museum, the DuSable Museum of African American History, the Museum of Science and Industry, the National Museum of Mexican Art, the Art Institute of Chicago and the Lincoln Park Zoo.
How Can Students Participate from Home?
Each weekly episode will include corresponding worksheet activities to further engage students and cement the day’s learnings. These worksheets can be found on the program’s official website, hitplaychicago.org.
Where and When Can You Watch?
The series kicks off with a visit to Shedd Aquarium, where viewers will see tuxedoed penguins (including the infamous Wellington), feed the ravenous sharks and say hello to Nickel the adorable rescued sea turtle.
The Shedd Aquarium segment premieres on Wed., Apr. 29 on hitplaychicago.org and airs on Fri., May 1 at 5:30 p.m. on Chicago’s PBS stations, WTTW and on Mon., May 4 at 12:30 p.m. on WTTW Prime (11.2).
Following the Apr. 29 premiere, subsequent episodes will follow the same schedule—airing each Wednesday online and Fridays and Mondays on TV.
Whether your outside space is a balcony, sidewalk or grassy backyard, here are fun ideas for ways for kids to play when you can’t have playdates but need a break from being indoors. Go way beyond bubbles and sidewalk chalk with these easy DIY ideas for outdoor activities—some for sitters, some for crawlers, and some for walkers.
1. Rainbow Scavenger Hunt Take your child around your yard or neighborhood and look for items that are the color of the rainbow. From a red stop sign to a yellow leaf to a purple flower, spotting items and learning color names can be a fun activity for you both. With younger babies, carry them to each item and let them explore its color and texture before moving on.
2. Treasure Hunt Fill some bags, boxes or those plastic Easter eggs with kid-friendly treasures (like stickers or fuzzy pom poms) and then hide them in plain sight in your yard for your child to find. This also works great indoors. For crawlers, spread them out on a picnic blanket and let your child discover each one.
3. The Coolest Play Boats Ice cubes are a great way to stay cool on a hot summer day. And the colorful ice boats at Busy Toddler use food coloring to keep kids delighted and spark their imagination. These boats require some parent prep ahead of time, which you can do with your little ones watching or helping. Then let loose the boots in an outdoor water table, bucket or inflatable backyard pool. Kids can move them across the water and watch the colored cubes melt.
4. Mess-Free Painting Giving a baby a paintbrush can mean a big, old mess—unless you let them paint with water. On a sunny day, hand your child a paintbrush and a small cup of water and let them paint the steps, driveway or a fence. You'll be surprised at how much kids love this simple task.
5. Shaving Cream = Sensory Fun We love this idea from Fantastic Fun and Learning. Put the shaving cream into a squirt bottle and mix in some food coloring, then let kids squeeze it onto contact paper and explore with their fingers. This activity is great for little ones learning to sit and crawlers who won’t go slip-sliding anywhere too fast. Just keep a close eye on them so they don’t try to taste the foam or smear it on their clothes.
6. The Cutest Nature Jam When little ones bang on pots and pans indoors, it can be headache-inducing. So take all that noise and energy outside. Donna Bozzo, author of What the Fun?! 427 Simple Ways To Have Fantastic Family Fun Play, suggests pulling loud kitchen tools and utensils outdoors and letting your baby make music. Attach the makeshift instruments to a fence, tree or other stationary object so they don't disappear. Or, lay them down in the grass for a different kind of sound.
7. Guess Which Color This splatter-paint art project from A Crafty Living is worth the mess it makes. Squirt some washable paint in large blobs on a big sheet of paper and then cover each with a cotton round (the paint blob should be slightly smaller than the cotton round). Strip your babe down to their diaper and help them smack each white round with their feet or a rubber mallet to discover which bold color will burst out. When you’re done, you’re left with a museum-worthy piece of modern art…and a happy baby in need of a bath.
5. Backyard Sensory Barn Babies love to engage their senses, and this sandbox sensory play activity by Click Pray Love allows your mini-me to have all kinds of tactile adventures. Fill a , plastic container, plastic kiddie pool or other large, low container with sand or rice and some barn- or farm-themed toys. Watch as your child digs through the sand to discover hidden treasures. Switch out the farm theme for a dinosaur dig, car and truck rally, or seashells and sand dollars, whatever you have on hand and whatever your kid loves.
Whitney C. Harris
9. Mix Natural Sights and Sounds All you need is a clear water bottle and a curious baby to make these DIY nature bottles from life coach and mother of four Leighann Marquiss. Help your child collect objects from your yard or a local park and place them in the bottle. Be on the lookout for dirt, grass, flowers, sand, stones, sticks, acorns and other small items that fit in the bottle. (As always, keep a close watch so baby doesn’t put their finds in their mouth.) Then seal the cap on the bottle and let your child turn and shake it to their heart’s content.
10. Nature Storytime Take your favorite book outdoors to really bring the story to life. Choose a book with nature themes and point out the sun, wind, leaves or whatever you see when you read about it.
February is a month of love: from I Love to Read in schools to kindness, this is the top month for showing kids the love of a good kids book list. Here are our favorite new titles in children’s publishing coming out in February.
Tiny Travelers Puerto Rico Treasure Quest
Encantos
The third book in the Tiny Travelers series takes readers on a journey from San Juan to Vieques. Created by a team of parents with multicultural backgrounds, the series promises a celebration of diversity with hidden treasures on every page. Great for kids of all ages, the interactive book is packed full of beautiful illustrations and rhyme-based storytelling.
Pig the Pug is back, and this time he's globetrotting. Everywhere he goes, he offends the locals and causes mayhem. Aaron Blabey's newest edition to the popular series is sure to garner giggles. The perfect addition to any vacation or road trip reading lists.
Spring is Here!, illustrated by Calres Ballesteros, is part of the Changing Faces series of board books for toddlers by Abrams Appleseed, reinforcing cause and effect with the turn of every page. As new animal friends come out to play on a sunny spring day, readers will love seeing their faces change when the page is turned, thanks to a venetian blind element built into the book.
From the beloved brand Highlights comes a new set of picture books for kids. One, in an A-Z format, this book will show kids all the different ways they can bring a little kindness into the world. Think helping with chores, delivering cookies to a neighbor, standing up for what’s right and more. The other does the same in counting form and featuring a diverse cast of kids and beautiful illustrations, these are both excellent books to read aloud in a classroom or at home before bedtime.
Introduce your toddler to the legendary E.T., with this adorable interactive board book. Help E.T. find the right word to describe what going on in the picture by turning the wheel at the side. From what he likes to eat to what he wants to do with the phone, this sweet dose of nostalgia will be enjoyed by everyone.
Little mole is sad, so his mother takes him out of his dark, underground burrow to search for hope. They find it in flower bulbs that will become daffodils, trees that will grow green leaves in the spring, and a chrysalis where a butterfly will soon emerge. Close your eyes and imagine what's to come, Mama says, showing little mole that there's always hope when you're in a dark place. This sweet lesson shows kids how to endure their own challenges and find hope around them.
Just breathe.... This book provides a guided meditation that shows kids how to focus on their breathing and stay calm even when they have troubling thoughts in their head. Illustrations show how thoughts can feel—flitting like butterflies, stomping like monsters or popping like bubbles—while reassuring kids that even scary thoughts pass and that mindful breathing, just ten deep breaths, can put us at ease.
Meet Cornelius J. Sparklesteed. He has a secret. He’s a unicorn!! He also lives in Hoofington, where lots of nasty rumors about unicorns get passed around. They’ve gone so far as to announce that unicorns aren’t welcome. So, Cornelius designs fabulous hats to conceal his secret, and along the way, garners the admiration of friends and even the mayor! This shiny, sparkly book is a delightful read, and more importantly, shows that sometimes, different isn’t just weird, it’s AWESOME.
This alphabet book stars women artists including iconic painters like Georgia O’Keefe and Frida Kahlo but also puts the spotlight on lesser-known artists like Mirka Mora, Judith Leyster and more. Each page has a short explanation of the works that define each artist (for example, legendary photographer Dorthea Lange is X is for EXposure), and if older kids want to learn more, the back pages have extended biographies. Beautiful illustrations complete this lovely picture book that's bookshelf worthy.
Helena Ku Rhee's wonderful new picture book tells the story of little Daniel, whose parents work as night janitors, usually while he sleeps. When the babysitter can't make it, Daniel has to go along with his parents to the big glass building they clean. Little does he know it is the land of the Paper King. Inspired by Rhee's own parents, this is the story of hardwork and imagination, and a reminder to be kind. Beautifully illustrated by Pascal Campion.
Olympia, Washington-based paper artist, Nikki McClure, released this beautiful book about the power of creativity and community at the end of February. It follows a family for a day in a small town, wondering with each turn of the page, what these hands will make. Will they make a fiddle? Fire from a stack of wood? How about a beautiful bouquet or a house for swallows? McClure’s recognizable art showcases the potential of each possible creation in the most compelling way.
Discover 30 activities designed to get your child to 'chill out, tune in and open up." Each beautifully illustrated card features an animal or a natural element with 3 thought-provoking exercises that will empower your child to be more present and mindful.
"When someone opens a door to you, go forward." Young Frances Perkins spent her life heeding the wise words her grandmother taught her as a little girl. Kathleen Krull's The Only Woman in the Photo tells the story of Frances Perkins, the first woman to ever sit on a presidential cabinet. Perkins became Franklin D. Roosevelt's trusted advisor, and it is Perkins you can thank for such things as child labor laws, unemployment insurance and social security. Illustrations by Alexandra Bye bring the life and times of this persistent, fearless trailblazer to life.
A beautiful picture book based on the life and journey of who most consider the father of modern art. This lovely work follows the life of the painter Paul Cézanne, who never gave up, even when the Parisian critics rejected his work, never gave up his mission to be a great painter, and was always evolving in style and technique. And yes, he really did have a parrot!
Geraldine and the Most Spectacular Science Project
Geraldine is a spunky second-grade student who loves science but sometimes has a hard time paying attention in class. When her teacher announces the science contest, she’s determined to take the prize. With lots of hard work, a pile of everyday stuff, and tons of confidence (she doesn’t let her fellow students' whispers get her down), Geraldine creates something truly amazing. A great story for kids who like to dream. (Available Feb 28th)
Michael Rex's new books will introduce young readers to the very important, and very distinct, difference between a fact and an opinion. Using robots, of course, kids can begin to understand the concepts, learn why it's important to have opinions, and when to stand up for the facts. A great reminder in an election year.
Just in time for the 50th anniversary of Earth Day, this beautiful book explores all the wonderful things Earth does as she awakens in the spring, tends to animals, pours down rain, colors autumn leaves, and sprinkles white snow over the tiny seeds waiting to bloom again. With intricate dye-cut pages, this interactive book allows readers to explore beautiful illustrations that bring the poetic prose on the pages to life.
Follow along to see what kind of trouble one of the most famous droids in history gets into when you read author Caitlin Kennedy’s next installment of the Droid Tales.
From first-time author J.M.M Nuanez comes a story about a girl named Jack and her gender non-confirming little brother Birdie. A beautifully written tale about loss, sibling relationships, and how love and understanding can grow and thrive, even for the most unexpected families. Strong characters and flowing prose make this stunning debut a must-read book for 2020.
"My own son thinks Brian McCann is funnier than I am," writes Ellie Kemper. And Conan O'Brian says, "Brian McCann has that unique ability to write comedy that a seven-year-old and a middle-age man will both find hilarious."
Acclaimed comedy writer Brian McCann invites you to visit Wannabe Farms, where farm animals do anything but what they are supposed to do. The rhyming prose, accompanied by Meghan Lands' illustrations, is reminiscent of a Shel Silverstein book if the sidewalk had ended on a farm where the animals had refused to take the garbage out.
From the shot buzzer to the dimensions of the court, basketball is full of math and this photo-centric book by author James Buckley Jr. (with a foreword by Kobe Bryant) brings the excitement of the game to math concepts kids encounter every day. Read up on amazing statistics and learn how to track the stats of your favorite basketball stars, learn how to use geometry and physics to improve your bounce pass and discover sports trivia and activities at the end of every chapter. Available Feb. 4.
We Had to Be Brave: Escaping the Nazis on the Kindertransport
Harrowing real-life stories come to life in award-winning author Debrah Hopkinson’s non-fiction retelling of families torn apart by Nazi Germany. With interviews, photos and detailed research, Hopkinson approaches what might be, for middle-grade kids, their first non-fiction account of the rise of Adolf Hitler and the Holocaust, with incredible details and readable prose. An important contribution to YA literature.
The Quest for the Crystal Crown (The Story Pirates Present)
Random House
Based on an original idea by a real kid! The third book in The Story Pirates Presents series, it's like two books in one. The first part is the story about an enchanted city, and the second part of the book is all about how to create your own fantasy adventure, including creative writing tips and tricks.
Before Hermione and Katniss, there were brilliant queens, clever villagers and brave girls who were saving the world around them—even if you’ve never heard their stories. Now is their chance to shine in this lovely collection of folktales from China, Russia, Persia, India, France, Germany and more. These strong protagonists are ideal role models for young girls.
If you’re not a natural historian, you might not know of the hidden treasures in Pioneer Square. But believe it or not, this historic neighborhood is the only place in town where you can pan for gold, view old fire department antiques and go underground to explore the city’s original streets. Sound like fun? Scroll down to find out how you and your crew can get in touch with your inner pioneer in downtown Seattle as well as for a list of Pioneer Square restaurants to refuel your brood during your adventure.
Smith Tower
Head to the top of what was once the tallest building west of the Missippippi in a historic Otis elevator, hand-operated by a conductor. Once there, you and your kids can enjoy a 360-degree view of the city from the open-air viewing deck. Built in 1914, Smith Tower was one of the first skyscrapers in the world. It may not be the tallest in the west, or even in Seattle any more, but it’s an amazing historic building with an amazing visitor experience to match. To make your journey even more historical, plan to take the Legends of Smith Tower tour before your ride to top. This awesome tour combines interesting facts and lore—through the past 100 years of the tower’s existence—with bits of humor and intrigue, making it a great experience for any age.
photo: Kristina Moy
Good to Know: On the 35th floor is where you will find the Observatory and Bar—a speakeasy-inspired hangout that pays homeage to the Smith Tower’s rum-running roots and Chinese Room history by serving Prohibition Era–inspired craft cocktails and bites inspired by the roaring 1920s. The best part? It’s open to all ages, so you can sip on a craft cocktail while your kids enjoy Shirley Temples.
506 Second Ave.
Seattle, WA 98104
206-624-0414
Online: smithtower.com
Observatory and Bar Hours: Sun.-Wed. from 10 a.m.-11 p.m., Thurs.-Sat. from 10 a.m.-midnight and Sunday from 10 a.m.-11 p.m.
Cost:
Legends of Smith Tower Tour Cost: $19/Adults; $15/Kids (5-12), Seniors (over 65) & Military; 4 & under Free.
Straight Up Tickets: $12/person; under 5 Free. Available every ten minutes beginning at 9 a.m., with ticket sales ending at 5:30 p.m. Note: Save 10% when you purchase tickets online.
Last Resort Fire Department
Calling all firefighter wannabes! There’s a four-alarm attraction at the Seattle Fire Department Headquarters that you don’t want to miss. This museum, dedicated to local firefighting history and heroes, includes a collection of one-of-a-kind antique fire trucks. It’s not a hands-on museum, but it’s still a thrill for both big and small firefighters wannabes. Psst…be sure to pick up a treasure hunt map when you enter, so your little fire captain can have fun spotting vintage fire hoses, oxygen masks and more.
301 Second Ave. S.
Seattle, WA 98104
206-783-4474
Online: lastresortfd.org
Hours: Thursdays from 11 a.m.–3 p.m. (except holidays) Cost: Free
Bill Spediel’s Underground Tour
As most Seattleites know, pioneers built the city on tidelands and then realized this wasn’t a very good idea. After a boy drowned in a puddle, and flushing the toilet at high tide became perilous, streets were built up a level – creating a hidden subterranean city below. Many of these old buildings and passageways still exist and you can go below to see the original front doors and store fronts. Young urban explorers can imagine what it was like to have to climb a ladder to get up to the sidewalk or walk through tunnels to visit friends. Not to mention, checking the tide table before flushing the toilet!
Good to Know: This is a walking tour that covers approximately three blocks at a leisurely pace. The entire tour, including introduction, takes about 75 minutes. Kids under 6 may find the tour challenging. Grownups and kids 13 & older can get an Underground Paranormal Experience upgrade. Descend if you dare!
Hours: Tours start on the half-hour during the summer; on the hour during the off-season.
Cost: $22/Adults; $20/Seniors (60+); $20/Youth (13-17 & students with valid college ID); $10/Kids (7-12); 6 & under Free. Underground Tour and Paranormal Experience Combo Ticket: $50.
photo: Klondike Gold Rush National Historic Park
Klondike Gold Rush National Historical Park
Beginning in 1897, thousands stampeded to the Yukon gold fields in Canada hoping to find their fortune. The Klondike Gold Rush was on and Seattle was the last stop in civilization for prospectors heading north on steamers. At this museum, which houses the only national park in a building, you’ll learn all about the men, women and children who headed for the Klondike. Psst…kids can take part in Junior Ranger activities and learn how to pan for gold.
319 Second Ave. S.
Seattle, WA 98104
206-220-4240
Online: nps.gov/klse
Winter Hours: Daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; 10 a.m.-2 p.m. Thanksgiving Eve, Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. Closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day.
Magic Mouse Toys
With two floors and over 6,000-square feet chock-full of toys and games, Magic Mouse Toys is, of course, a magnet for kids. Here, you’ll find all kinds of unique toys along with dolls, puzzles and art projects with the promise that this shop carries, “only the classiest brands of toys that have withstood the test of time.”
603 First Ave.
Seattle, WA 98104
206-682-8097
Online: magicmousetoys.com
Hours: Daily, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Closed Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
Agate Designs
So much more than just a jewelry shop, Agate Designs is like a museum full of geological wonders. Although not recommended for tiny tots, kids who can look-but-not-touch will be wowed as they discover Agate Designs’ handpicked crystals, gems and minerals, plus 500-million-year-old fossils.
120 First Ave. S.
Seattle, WA 98104
206-621-3063
Online: agatedesigns.com
The Globe Bookstore
This inviting new and used bookstore is a perfect pit stop for you and your little book worms. Rest your feet and cozy up with a good read in the children’s area, and be sure to browse the other sections including literature, history and cooking.
Waterfall Garden Park
A waterfall in the middle of the city? This hidden pocket park is a great spot to relax with your crew, read a book or simply rest your tired feet. Pack a picnic and listen to the gentle sound of the 22 ft. waterfall as it washes out the bustle of city life.
Occidental Square Park & Playspace
Play a game of chess, bocce, foosball or table tennis in this leafy cobblestone park in the heart of Pioneer Square. Or sit back and enjoy watching the kids explore the newly installed playground, with its artistically designed wooden jungle gym, swings, climbing ropes and a recycled rubber floor. It makes the perfect pit stop for tired kids touring the city on a fun-filled weekend. Long story short, Occidental Square Park is a great place to seek some shade on a hot day or catch an outdoor concert during the summer months. Plan to stop for coffee or lunch at one of the many eateries surrounding the park or try one of the local food trucks near the park and enjoy plenty of outdoor seating.
Pioneer Square Park
This popular park sits on the site of Henry Yesler’s mill and is home to the ornate Iron Pergola, built over the finest underground restroom in the United States (sadly, the restroom closed its doors in the 1920s). Pioneer Square Park is also home to an Alaskan Tlingit totem pole with an interesting backstory and a Chief Seattle drinking fountain. Psst…Pioneer Square Parkis a great vantage point for people watching and a good spot for a photo opp to commemorate your day in Pioneer Square.
Cow Chip Cookies
What’s that on your boot? It’s not a cow chip, is it? Don’t fear, Seattle parents. You and your crew are going to love these kind of cow chips. An institution in Pioneer Square since 1982 (although the recipe dates from 1883), Cow Chip Cookies serves “the original drop cookie,” a delicious sweet treat baked to perfection from a secret recipe from Butter Creek Farm. Psst..Cow Chip cookies pair best with a cold glass of milk or a cup o’ Joe.
102A First Ave. S.
Seattle, WA 98104
206-292-9808
Online: cowchipcookies.com
Hours: Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Closed on Sundays
Grand Central Bakery and Cafe
Follow the aroma of fresh-baked treats to this bakery in the Grand Central Arcade. On chilly days, perch by the fireplace and enjoy handmade sticky buns with espresso for you and hot chocolate for the kiddies. On sunny days, take your sweet eats out to the cobblestone patio.
The London Plane
Fresh sustainably sourced ingredients and flavors from around the world make this bakeshop and floral shop a great place to stop for brunch or any time of day. Try their toasted sourdough with hazelnut butter, sea salt and honey or their quiche with ham, asparagus and aged cheddar. Delish! Psst…the bakeshop’s name was inspired by the London Plane trees that dot Pioneer Square.
General Porpoise
In the heart of Pioneer Square is where you’ll findGeneral Porpoise, one of the latest contenders to arrive at Seattle’s growing doughnut scene. (Other locations include Capitol Hill, Amazon Spheres and Laurelhurst.) Since General Porpoise opened its doors in 2016 on Capitol Hill, the eatery has held the number one spot for custard filled doughnuts. Put aside those “eat healthier” resolutions (if you haven’t already) and indulge in delicate clouds of fried dough slathered with sugar and filled with jams, creams, custards and curds made fresh with LFdA farm eggs. The vanilla custard (one of our favorites!), chocolate marshmallow and lemon curd are mainstays along with a couple of rotating seasonal fillings (think peaches and cream, plum jam and white nectarine jam), depending on the day and what local purveyors provide.
Studies show outdoor play time is vital to a child’s health and well-being. Thanks to these 30 sweet and simple ideas, your kiddos will be begging to get outside to enjoy the chilly winter days. Just scroll down for our ultimate list of ways to get outdoors this winter.
1. Play tag! It doesn’t get any easier than tag when your kids need to burn some energy outside. Name someone as “it” and leave the rest up to them. All they need is an open space and some cool clothes to get this game going.
2. Camp out. Before the weather turns absolutely frigid, pitch a tent in your own back yard or head to one of these incredible camping spots around the country. Not sure you want to commit to an overnight? Set up camp during the day in your own yard or at a park, and pack it up when twilight falls.
3. Set up a science lab in your driveway or on the sidewalk. Need inspiration? Plenty of these awesome activities are perfect for cool fall and winter weather.
4. Jump in a pile of leaves. Put all that fall foliage to good use and rake a huge pile before going in for a big jump. This is one chore the kids won't mind helping with as long as they get to keep jumping!
5. Go sledding. Grab your discs and sleds and head outdoors for a few exhilarating trips down the local sledding course.
6. Create beautiful outdoor art. From nature-made mandalas to colander spin art masterpieces, these outdoor art projects are easy to clean up and guarantee hours of creative fun.
7. Make nature soup. Grab a bucket or bowl, let your kids gather their "ingredients," and then hand them the hose. They'll be dishing up the goods for hours.
8. Have a winter picnic. Before the thick of winter sets in, pack up a lunch and enjoy some outside dining in the crisp weather.
10. Have a snowball fight. It's always time for a good old fashioned snowball fight when the snow starts to fall. Stockpile handmade balls and let the refreshing game begin!
11. Break out the binoculars. Make a pine cone bird feeder with peanut butter and birdseed, then find a nearby spot to spy on what comes to eat with binoculars.
12. Make Sugar on Snow. Kids will love making "maple syrup on snow candy," especially with only two ingredients: maple syrup and clean snow!
14. Go ice skating. Hit up the local outdoor skating rink for a seasonal skate.
15. Hit a festival. Check our local events calendar and check out a winter festival near you.
16. Make Potato Heads in the snow. Grab your potato parts and head outdoors to make snow potatoes. Spend all afternoon making hilarious faces and don't forget to capture them in photos.
17. Go geocaching. When the wiggles hit, load up the kids for a real-life treasure hunt in the great outdoors. Follow high-tech clues left by geocachers when you download the app that tracks treasures hidden all over the world. Not sure where to begin? Try this step-by-step guide.
18. Make a snow painting. Grab some markers and use the snow as your canvas! Your kids will love painting in the fresh air, especially with an endless amount of snow to go around.
19. Blow frozen bubbles. A simple mixture is all you need to head outdoors and watch bubbles freeze before your very eyes.
20. Build forts. Scavenge fallen branches and pine tree boughs to build a teepee, or try one of these incredible (and totally doable) forts that you can build together. Or, find a bush or a tree with low-hanging branches and use its canopy as your fort roof.
21. Set up an outdoor treasure hunt. Set your kids free in the backyard to seek out hidden treasures. They’ll have a blast trying to find little trinkets you’ve hidden beforehand.
27. Collect items for a nature book. Make a winter-themed book with seasonal finds and drawings, like pinecones, acorns and leaves from the chilly season.
28. Make a snow maze. Dig out a fun windy adventure that pets and kids can enjoy during the thick of winter.
29. Paint rocks. Want to do more than jazz up your garden path with colorfully painted rocks? Check out these reasons to paint a rock for kindness. Join a movement!
30. Build an ice sculpture. Whether you live in a snowy climate or enjoy a milder winter, you can create colored ice cubes, then build an imaginative culture that is STEM approved!
