Join the Mysterious Hunt That Celebrates the Lunar New Year

by Allison SutcliffeDecember 15, 2022

Celebrate the Lunar New Year a bit differently this year when you go on a Monkeyshines hunt to find hidden art around the city

The Year of the Rabbit is right around the corner, and if you’re looking for a new way to celebrate, we’ve got just the thing. Monkeyshines is a secret art scavenger hunt that gives families a reason to get outside and explore. Plus, if your hunt is successful, you’ll take home a gorgeous glass orb as your prize. Ready for a new kind of hide and seek game? Here’s what you need to know…

Go Bananas for Monkeyshines

Guerrilla art. Hidden treasure. No matter what you call it, Monkeyshines is a beloved Tacoma tradition. It’s a citywide scavenger hunt that starts around the Lunar New Year—the exact start date is a secret—that anyone can join. Seekers are on the lookout for blown glass floats or medallions, stamped with a Lunar New Year animal design. This year, there are two new Year of the Ox designs, in addition to a historical one (a stamp used 12 years ago) hidden around the city. Where you’ll find them? Nobody knows. That’s sort of the point. Seeking a Monkeyshine is about getting out and exploring T-town with your kids. If you find a hidden treasure along the way, you’re one of the lucky ones.

In the Beginning

Monkeyshines started 18 year ago by Ms. and Mr. Monkey as a way to bring joy to the community. In an effort to cheer themselves up during the gloomy winter months, they organized a whole hot shop’s worth of artists and volunteers to make 200 Monkeyshines they then hid around the city. Now Ms. Monkey and her band of mischief makers spend the better part of the year designing and producing the 2,000 glass orbs they eventually hide. It’s a true labor of love and a gift to the city; a way for people to make their own fun, explore Tacoma and connect with community.

Going Rogue

The excitement surrounding Monkeyshines is contagious. In fact, years ago it inspired Marble Man to hide colorful marbles in anticipation of the big hunt. Now “going rogue” is kind of a thing. Area makers create Lunar Near Year art and hide it in the weeks and days leading up the official Monkeyshines hunt. So while you’re out seeking orbs, keep your eyes peeled for other guerrilla art (think: wood ornaments, stamped paper, metal coins and more) you may find tucked into trees, hanging from sculptures or carefully placed along popular paths. How will you know if you’ve found a Rogue? All this art incorporates this year’s lunar animal as well.

The Heart of the Hunt

Ms. Monkey says it best. At its core, Monkeyshines is about the hunt more than the find. It’s about creating a positive experience in the community and finding wonder along the way. Whether you find an orb, or someone else does, it’s the memories of your time together that matter. There’s an ethos that guides the hunt. For starters, Monkeyshines find you. That’s why you never know when you’re going to stumble across one. Seekers are asked to only take one Monkeyshine per year. And trade-ups are allowed. So if you find a Monkeyshine medallion and later come across an orb, leave one so you can take the other. Our favorite part of the hunt? There’s no way to know what’s been found any given year, so it's possible to find Monkeyshines hidden years ago at any time.

Where to Seek & (Hopefully) Find

Only the volunteers who hide the Monkeyshines know exactly where they are, but if your family is ready to head out in search of this coveted treasure, these spots are always worth exploring. Try looking in…

Wright Park is a 27-acre oasis in the middle of the city. While you’re looking for your Year of the Ox treasure, wander the winding trails, play at the playground and stop in to smell the azaleas, cyclamen and orchids at the W.W. Seymour Conservatory with a timed ticket.

Downtown Tacoma is another great spot to happen upon elusive art. While the usual haunts aren’t currently open, families can still walk around the UW Tacoma campus, cross the Chihuly Bridge of Glass and walk the Prairie Line Trail near TAM in search of Monkeyshines. Also consider exploring Old Town Tacoma if you’re still on the hunt.

Dune Peninsula Park and Point Ruston have lots to do in addition to seeking hidden treasure. The playground, trails and amazing views will keep the kids busy for hours. It’s a bike and scooter paradise on a sunny day!

Wherever you plan your hunt, remember that Monkeyshines are hidden all over, and never on private property. Don’t forget to look for them in trees and ponds (Ms. Monkey’s favorite hiding spot is in the water), as well as on the ground.

Insider tip: Check out #Monkeyshines on Instagram and Twitter to see where people have found treasures in past years for inspiration.

Good to know: The pandemic has been especially tough on local artists, including many who volunteer their time to put on the Monkeyshines hunt. That’s why this year Ms. Monkey is working to pay artists for their time and talent. If you’d like to show your support, it’s as easy as donating to the Monkeyshines fund.

All photos courtesy Sierra Hartman, unless otherwise noted

28 Indoor Games for Kids with Climb-the-Walls Energy

by Erica LoopNovember 23, 2022

A pillowcase race is one of our favorite indoor games

Whether the weather is keeping you inside or you’re just not feeling an outing, active play is not only stimulating for the body but it can also boost the brain. From balloon games to literally acting like animals, we’ve found 28 inventive ways to get kids moving indoors and keep their little minds occupied. Check out our favorite indoor games for any time of year.

Active Imagination

Take the kids on a walk through the forest without leaving the living room. For each prompt, demonstrate a movement while you tell the story out loud. For example:

You are walking down a path in a forest (walk in place).

You see a deer leap across the path (leap!).

You chase after the deer (run in place).

But you trip on a branch and fall (slowly fall in place).

You roll down a hill (roll around on the floor).

You can take this in any direction you want and make it last as long as you need to!

Grow, Little Seed, Grow!

In this scenario, you're going to "plant" your kiddo and watch them grow.

Have your child curl up in a little ball on the floor. If they're small enough, you can carry them to the spot.

Declare you are a gardener, and you are planting the rarest seed.

Tickle their back while you say, "Water, water, water!"

Lightly tap their back while you say, "Sun beats down, sun beats down!"

Now the seed can start to unfurl. "Oh, the seed is reaching through the soil!"

As your child slowly comes to standing, at each stage say things like, "Oh, the leaves are unfurling!" and "Look, there's a flower on the top."

Finally, have your child stretch to the sun.

You can end it there, or you can go and pick the flower, having the kiddos collapse in a giggling heap as you "chop" at their heels.

The Alphabet Workout

This one takes a bit more prep, but it's super easy to learn and guaranteed to burn off energy in no time. First, you need to associate a specific exercise with letters of the alphabet (example: A, 5 burpees, B, 10 jumping jacks, C, 10 jumps in place). You can repeat exercises, so you don't have to come up with 26 new ones! You can also find a pre-made one, like this one from Leash Your Fitness.

Next, you take turns doing the exercises based on your name. Adjust to kids' ages and fitness levels. For example, you can do middle and last names if the kids need more. Or choose random words. Your heart will be pumping in no time (It makes a great break from work for adults, too.).

Pool Noodle Jousting

Okay, we'll admit this one could be a recipe for trouble among certain siblings, but it's ever so easy and ever so fun! Just be sure to establish rules like no hitting faces, body parts, etc.

All you need are two pool noodles. If the kids are small, you can cut a pool noodle in half.

Arm each child (or yourself and a child).

Joust away.

No noodles? You can get a set of two 52" long noodles for $21.99 on Amazon right now.

Color Match

Choose a few colorful old socks; fill each sock with dry rice, beans, or something similar, and tie the ends together. Place sheets of paper on the floor—with one for each color of the sock. Your child can toss the homemade bean bag onto the corresponding color of paper.

Animal Antics

Can your kiddo waddle like a walrus? Walk like a penguin? Gallop like a horse? Call out animal names and watch as your child imitates the creature’s antics.

Indoor Games for Kids That Use Balloons

using balloons for a countdown is a fun New Year's eve party idea — Kenny Eliason via Unsplash

Bat the Balloon

Fill a balloon, toss it into the air and count how many pats your child can bat the balloon before it falls to the ground. Add another balloon to make the game more challenging.

Balloon Ball

All it takes to play balloon volleyball, baseball, basketball, or hockey is hot air (to blow up the balloons!) and a little ingenuity. Use trash cans on opposite sides of the room as baskets and a simple painter’s tape line to divide the room for a volleyball net. For hockey and baseball, use pool noodles to bat balloons in the air or on the ground.

Balloon Challenge

Blow up as many balloons as you can, and divide them up so roughly half are inside a painter’s tape-made circle and half are outside of it. Then free the kids, challenging one to get as many balloons into the circle while inviting the other to keep out as many as possible. It’s a Ying/Yang situation that’ll wear them out faster than you can say, “nap time!”

Active Indoor Games for Kids

Mirror Mirror

Take follow the leader to a whole new level. Pretend your child is a mirror and have them imitate your movements—reflection style. Reverse the course and give them a chance to play the role of leader as you mirror them.

Family Freeze

Are you looking for games for kids that don’t require materials, cards, boards or anything else? Try a quick game of freeze. Let the kids run, dance, twirl or move to their beat. Yell, “freeze,” and watch them suddenly turn into statues.

Musical Chairs

Don’t count out the games you played as a child. Set up chairs in your playroom, turn on the tunes, and play a game of musical chairs.

Indoor Hopscotch

A long stretch of wood or tile flooring is all your little ones need to play indoor hopscotch. Lay out the game using painters or washi tape so it won’t stick to your floors. Then off they go, tossing and hopping down the alley until they reach 10. Get more on this sweet idea over at Toddler Approved.

Pillowcase Race

Who doesn’t need an excuse to change the bedsheets? Have the kids stuff themselves into their pillowcases, then send them off down a carpeted hallway or across a room with a rug toward an imaginary finish line. Add in obstacles to make it more challenging and to keep the fun rolling.

Potato Relay

To play this silly game, all you need are buckets, potatoes and kids with a good sense of humor. Set the buckets up at one side of the room. Next, ask each child to carry a potato between their legs (no hands allowed) across the room and plop it in the bucket before turning and running back to tag the next player in line.

Indoor Games for Kids That Like Color

Paint Race

Who can paint a portrait, landscape or still life the fastest? Choose a subject, hand out the canvases and race to see who can paint their masterpiece the fastest.

Rainbow Race

Add science to your indoor games for youth! Preschoolers and younger kiddos will get a kick out of this fun-filled full “STEAM” -ahead game. Drip a few drops of food coloring into water and freeze colorful cubes. When the ice is ready, place different colors on one side of a piece of poster board paper and race the cubes to see which one melts the fastest—and wins!

Color Wheel Magic

Preschoolers will dig this simple game you can make with construction paper. Place colored papers around on the ground cakewalk style and turn on some music. Then start your crew out around the circle. Whatever color they’re on when the music stops becomes their challenge color, and they need to race through the house to find an object in that color. The first one back to the circle wins!

Indoor Bowling

Put your plastic dixie cup collection to use. Line the bottles up bowling pin-style and use a soft, squishy ball to bowl!

Icy Building Blocks

No blocks? No problem! Freeze colorful cubes of ice and use them to build skyscrapers in your kitchen. Have a parent-child contest to see who can build the highest tower—without toppling the freezing blocks.

Dress-Up Challenge

Raid the dress-up bin or pile all your best costumes together. Then call out open-ended prompts your kids can respond to with their clothing choices. Dress up as someone who helps others. Dress up as someone who builds things. Dress up as a hero. Have kids race against each other or set a timer for singletons as they take on this best-dressed challenge.

Cup Flip Fun

This simple game is a total energy burn. To play, grab 20 paper or plastic cups from the cupboards and scatter them around the room—10 facing up and 10 facing down. Divide your crew into the Up Team and the Down Team before setting a five-minute timer. Once the timer is set, send the teams off to flip cups in their direction (up for Up Team, down for Down Team).

Storybook Show

kids reading books on the couch upside down together — iStock

Combine two favorite activities into one when you help your kids get their favorite book ready for its stage debut. Think out costumes and dialogue as you prepare them to act out their favorite book for the most approving audience around—you and your parenting partner! It’ll be standing ovations and encore applauses when they’re done.

Family Wrestling Match

dad playing indoor games with kids — iStock

This simple activity pits your kiddo against mom or dad in a battle of physical strength. To play, create a circle using painter’s tape or something that will easily peel off your floors. Make sure it’s big enough to move around in. Plant yourself firmly in the middle before motioning to your sidekick Matrix-style to try and wrestle you out of the circle. Set a timer for each round, or keep it going until you finally get pushed out.

Dance Party

Host an indoor dance party with a game-filled twist. Turn on your kid's favorite tunes, and dance follow the leader style. The leader twirls, whirls and swirls around the room while everyone else follows.

At-Home Obstacle Course

Indoor games get an activity boost with this obstacle-filled option. Use all the cardboard delivery boxes in your basement or pile pillows together. Then have your ninja warriors test their skills on the course that gives them a legit reason to climb the furniture.

Scavenger Hunts

Photo Scavenger Hunt

Make your kids’ day with this simple activity that you can play virtually anywhere. Write a list of random items your kids can find around the house. Then, send them off with your phone to find and snap pictures of each of the items. Make the list as long or as short as you like and change it every time you play.

Color Hunt

Stage a rainbow-filled scavenger hunt at home. Give your child pieces of colorful construction paper and ask them to find something around the house that matches each one.

14 Low-Key Games to Play with Grandparents

by Katie BrownSeptember 7, 2022

Finding games to play with grandparents is a lot easier than you might think

Spending time with grandparents is often full of laughter, love, and a little too much sugar. But even a spry and creative nana or papa could use a few ideas now and again. From card games to photo book exploration, here are some games to play with grandparents that span ages and offer mellow afternoon fun.

games to play with grandparents like "duck, duck goose" — iStock

1. Dealer’s choice. Your little card shark will love cleaning up at Go Fish, but she might also enjoy learning some other old-school games. Grandparents can choose from their favorites: Spoons, Crazy Eights, War, and Rummy are all winners!

2. On the record. Kids of all ages love to ask questions, so let them satisfy their curiosity by interviewing Gram and Pops. Questions might range from, “What is your favorite dinosaur?” to “Tell me about your first date.” This list is a great start!

3. Strike a chord. If either grandparent has a talent for a particular instrument, encourage them to share that skill with the kids! Whether it’s a formal piano lesson or a chance to simply explore and bang on the drums (or strum a guitar or toot a horn), they’re sure to make a joyful noise.

4. Crack open a book. A pile of picture books (or one riveting chapter book) and a comfy couch are the makings of a perfect day. Make a trip out of it by going to the library, or let the kids show off their collection and pick out books they think their grandparents will enjoy, too.

5. Freeze time. To memorialize special or long visits with grandparents, collect mementos of your time together to make a time capsule—think photographs, ticket stubs, drawings, and puzzle pieces.

6. (Grand)mother, May I? While running around outside might be a bit too exhausting for a few grandparents, several classic yard games need at least one participant who needs to stand relatively still. Some of our favorites include Mother May I; Red Light, Green Light; Simon Says; and all kinds of hand clap games.

7. Put the pieces together. Take over the dining room table, and clock in a few hours of peaceful silence (or happy chatter) by putting together a jigsaw puzzle. You can dust off something you have on hand, or grandpa and the kids can go out and choose something together.

8. Get cookin’. If both your tykes and their elders like to cook, let them team up in the kitchen and whip up a favorite family recipe. They can even read Baking Day at Grandma’s together for extra fun! We even have cooking games that are perfect games to play with grandparents.

9. Tea for two (or three or five). Raid grandma’s closet, break out the good plates, and cut sandwiches into triangles—voilà! Grandparents will love being served a cuppa and will likely appreciate the opportunity to reinforce gracious table manners.

10. Go for a walk. Even if there’s no summer sun calling your name, nature walks are fun during any season. Have the kids put on some comfortable shoes and a hat, and they can hold grandma’s hand while exploring a new trail or give her a “tour” of the neighborhood.

11. Hunt for treasure. One part riddle, one part hide and seek, an indoor treasure or scavenger hunt will delight grandkids (and grandparents) of all ages.

12. Plant memories—in a terrarium! With a simple glass bowl, soil, rocks, a few plants, and (our favorite part) a few of those tiny plastic dinosaurs that inhabit every corner of your home, grandparents will love helping their grandkids create a habitat for their most fearsome friends.

kids love hugs and games they can play with grandparents — OC Gonzalez via Unsplash

13. Play "Guess Who?" Bust out the photo albums and play a round of "guess who?" where the grandchildren try to guess who family members are from older pictures. This is a great way to connect kids with people they haven't met and remind them we were all young once!

14. Plan an imaginary trip. Research a place you would like to go, even if it's a place like Hogwarts or a faraway country like Antarctica. Use a globe or even google maps to find the country; find books about the place or look it up together; create a packing list; plan an itinerary; and write postcards. This can be an ongoing project.

15. Speaking of scenarios... This one is great because it requires nothing other than two or more imaginations. You can sit on the couch, and if a grandparent is less mobile, they can 100% participate. All you do is create a "scenario": We're all on a baking show, the theme is [blank] and there are three rounds: cupcake, candy, and cake. What will you make? Another example: We're all on a rocketship heading to [planet name]. Talk about your astronaut names, where you went to school, how long it takes to get there, what your jobs are on the spaceship, and what you see out the window. What happens when you land? Do you discover a species? Is it cold?

14 Amazing Things You Didn’t Know You Could Do in Washington DC

by Meghan Yudes MeyersAugust 24, 2022

A library with a literal secret door and a grocery store with a fleet of classic pinball machines are just a few of the hidden gems in the DMV area

DC is home to some of the most famous landmarks in the world. From the monuments on the National Mall to the president’s home, the White House, you don’t have to be a local to be in-the-know about the city’s most popular tourist spots. But what if you want to venture off the beaten path? Where do you go when you want to bypass the tourist traps and skip the crowds?

If you think you’ve covered everything the District has to offer, think again. We found 14 under-the-radar places to explore, including hidden doors (hint: the Mansion on O St. isn’t the only one with secret passages) and a new historical tour (that floats!). We’re willing to bet that even native Washingtonians and their families will find some new places to discover on this list of hidden gems!

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The Old Post Office Tower
A little known local secret; after being closed for years, the Old Post Office Tower is open again for (almost) daily tours from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. From an observation tower 270 ft. above the city, guests can view the famous landmarks of Pennsylvania Ave. including the White House, the Capitol, the Washington Monument and, on a clear day, as far as the Pentagon. The tower is free to visit and does not require advanced tickets.

Editor’s Note: The tower is closed on Sept. 1, Oct. 4, Nov. 1 and Dec. 1 for cleaning.

Old Post Office Tower
12th St. & Pennsylvania Ave.
Downtown
Online: nps.gov

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The Corpse Flower
A unique treat for Oscar the Grouch-types, the corpse flower is a rare-blooming plant at the U.S. Botanic Garden that, when open, gives off the stench of rotting garbage. So far, it has bloomed twice this year. The flower stays open for a short window (2-3 days), so you need to make a b-line to the garden when this hidden gem is revealed.

U.S. Botanic Garden
100 Maryland Ave. SW
National Mall
Online: usbg.gov

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Planet Word’s Secret Door
You’ll find a literal hidden gem within this museum! Head to the Schwarzman Family Library on the second floor where a secret door reveals a hidden screening room (or a secret hideout. You decide!). This magical library is a treasure trove of surprises. You’ll also find a number of hidden dioramas of famous books that can only be revealed when you read a passage from the book aloud in front of the secret picture frames.

Planet Word
925 13th St. NW
Penn Quarter
Online: planetwordmuseum.org

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C&O Canal Boat Rides
If you haven’t heard, Georgetown’s has a new attraction and it will take you back in time! After more than a decade, canal rides are back in Georgetown whisking visitors along the historic transportation route envisioned by George Washington. Tours are available five days f a week from TK to TK during the inaugural season. This boat is a near-exact replica of an 1880 boat with one important distinction: this one has a modern bathroom!

C&O Canal Lock 3
Thomas Jefferson & 30th St. NW
Georgetown
Online: georgetownheritage.org

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MOM’s Pinball Club
If you have a little gamer, introduce them to the original console, the pinball machine. Mom’s founder Scott Nash has shared his personal collection of pinball machines in an arcade lounge at the College Park grocery store. You’ll find almost 30 restored classics like “Flash Gordon” alongside newer models, like “The Simpsons.” There is an onsite change-making machine and a seating area for those that just want to cheer from the sidelines.

MOM’s Pinball Club
9801 Rhode Island Ave.
College Park, MD
Online: facebook.com/MOMsPinball/

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Anderson House
Anderson House was built in the spring of 1905 as the stateside home of American diplomat Lars Anderson and his wife, Isabel. Today, the 50-room mansion on Embassy Row is a museum and library featuring most of the original furniture and artwork. You’ll learn about the significance of the American Revolution while touring this historic property. Docent-led tours are available Tues.-Sun. and last about an hour. Admission to this stately home is free.

Anderson House
2118 Massachusetts Ave. NW
Embassy Row
Online: societyofthecincinnati.org

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The Rooftop at the Kennedy Center
Watching the sun set over our nation’s capital is a must-do at least once. There are a number of pricey restaurants and rooftop bars where you can pay handsomely for the view or you can head over to the Kennedy Center where the rooftop is open to the public and allows outside food. Family picnic, anyone?

The Kennedy Center
2700 F St. NW
Foggy Bottom
Online: kennedy-center.org

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Gravelly Point Park
Pint-size aviation buffs will love hanging out at Gravelly Point Park, which is conveniently situated just off of the George Washington Parkway. It’s there where they’re able to watch planes take off (right above their heads!) from Reagan National Airport. Pack a picnic or bring popcorn to make plane watching a serious spectator sport.

Gravelly Point Park
George Washington Pkwy.
Arlington, VA
Online: virginia.org

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Summerhouse
This secret hideaway on the Capitol Grounds was designed by landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted in the late 1800s to create a much-needed space for visitors to sit and rest. Inside this open-air building you can still enjoy a break from the elements on the shaded benches or refill your water bottle at one of the three drinking fountains. Summerhouse is a great place to play a quick game of hide-and-seek on your way to a near-by tour or activity.

Insider tip: Peek out the window into the grotto for some birdwatching!

U.S. Capitol Building
E Capitol Cir. NW
West Front Lawn of the Capitol
Online: aoc.gov/capitol-grounds/summerhouse

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Fort Stevens
This one-time battlefield is now an oasis of peace in the middle of urban bustle. Rich with history, it even includes a plaque to commemorate the spot where President Lincoln stood and came under enemy fire. It’s a beautiful place for a picnic and a couple of hours of learning and play. Make sure you check out the cannons, ramparts, and moat before you leave. The park is open every day from sunrise to sunset.

Insider tip: There are no bathrooms at Fort Stevens, so make sure everyone goes before you get there! If you do need to use one while you’re there, the nearest one is at the Rock Creek Park Nature Center and Planetarium two miles to the west (but it’s only open Wed.-Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.).

Fort Stevens
1339 Fort Stevens Dr.
Brightwood
Online: nps.gov/places/fort-stevens.htm

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The Heurich House Gardens
The Heurich House Museum only offers tours for ages 10 & up, but you can still take your younger explorers to the Castle Garden (the public entrance is in the back). This secret garden is the perfect place for a picnic or spend an hour or two on a bench with a good book in the shadow of the castle. There is no fee to enjoy the grounds which is open to the public Mon.-Fri. from 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Castle Garden
1921 Sunderland Pl. NW
Dupont Circle
Online: heurichhouse.org/visit/castlegarden

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National Capital Trolley Museum
“Clang, clang, clang went the trolley.” Does your little one like to ring the bell? The National Capital Trolley Museum is a must-do day trip into a bygone era of transportation. Hop aboard a street car for a quick journey into the woods or enjoy a tour on an authentic tram. You can also explore the barn that houses several restored trollies. Admission includes the museum displays, a docent-led tour, and unlimited trolley rides.

Insider tip: Make sure you check the website for the hours before you go. Hours are extremely limited and vary by season. You can reserve your timeslot online.

National Capital Trolley Museum
1313 Bonifant Road
Colesville, MD
Online: dctrolley.org

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Stabler-Leadbeater Apothocary Museum
You don’t need to be a Harry Potter fan to enjoy this small museum filled with antique vials and mysterious glass bottles. You’ll find an authentically-restored 18th century apothecary on the first floor, but the real fun is upstairs where little drawers hold a treasure-trove of seeds, plants, and other goodies displayed exactly as they were when the apothecary was in full operation. Tours are available on the half-hour every Sun. and Mon.

Stabler-Leadbeater Apothocary Museum
105-107 South Fairfax St.
Alexandria, VA
Online: alexandriava.gov/Apothecary

Smokey Bear at the National Zoo

Pose next to the beloved Smokey Bear, the poster animal for preventing forest fires, at the National Zoo. Along the commemorative trail, you will also see reproductions of vintage Smokey Bear posters and photos of the real Smokey Bear that once called this zoo home. Want to learn more about preventing forest fires? Check out smokeybear.com where kids can print out hands-on activities.

Editor's Note: The zoo is free, but due to COVID-19, entry passes are required. Get yours here.

Smithsonian National Zoological Park
3001 Connecticut Ave. NW
Woodley Park
Online: nationalzoo.si.edu

What to Do with Kids in LA before the Summer Is Over

by Andie HuberJuly 26, 2022

It’s hard to believe it, but summer is almost over (insert crying emoji). But before your calendar and to-do-list fills back up with back-to-school orientations and shopping trips, you deserve to get maximum fun out of the remaining weeks. Read on for our ultimate end-of-summer bucket list for LA families.

LA’s Last Summer Carnivals & Fairs

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The OC Fair: Whether you want to eat ridiculous amounts of fried food, see baby farm animals, or ride the carnival rides, the OC Fair is your spot. Along with the fair’s iconic 164-foot-tall Ferris wheel, there are more than 50 rides to choose from—with bonafide thrills for older kids and kiddie rides for the littles. As for food, this year’s calorie-whopping winners include Pink’s deep fried hot dog bites, a chocolate chip Nutella ice cream sandwich, and (you ready?) a “Hot Cheeto-n-Cheese Burger,” which is described as “a burger sandwiched between a buttery bun dipped in melted cheddar cheese, rolled in ground-up hot Cheetos then topped with melted cheese and whole crunchy hot Cheetos.”

Good to Know: To mitigate crowds, the fair is operating at a voluntary reduced capacity and will only sell a limited number of tickets every day. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

When: Now through Aug. 14
Cost: Admission varies by day and starts at $12 for ages 13+; $7 for children and seniors; free for kids 5 and under (Note: Rides and food not included). Parking is $10.

88 Fair Dr.
Costa Mesa
Online: ocfair.com/thefair

Summer Fair of LA: Ferris Wheel? Check! Carnival games? Check! Pig races and dog shows? Those, too! The Summer Fair of LA at the Santa Anita Racetrack has more than 50 rides (unlimited ride wristbands are available), live tribute bands, pig races, a dog “stunt show,” and tons of food—including giant turkey legs, deep fried Oreos, and fried butter (because apparently that’s a thing!).

When: Jul. 21 through Aug. 20
Rate: $10-12 adults; $7 kids ages 6-12; free for kids under 6

285 West Huntington Dr.
Arcadia
Online: santaanita.com

That Last of the Summer Nights that Light Up

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Paso Robles
Online: sensoriopaso.com

Participate in the Glow Ride. Ride by the beach… at night…decked out in glow gear! Decorate your wheels (scooters, bikes and wagons) and yourselves for a colorful ride from the Hermosa Beach Pier to the Manhattan Beach Pier while supporting Claire’s Place Foundation—an organization that supports children and families with Cystic Fibrosis. All registered riders will receive a Glow Ride t-shirt.

Date/Time: Aug. 27 (meet at 5:30 p.m., the ride begins at 7:30 p.m.)
Cost: $45 per person

1 Pier Ave.
Hermosa Beach
Online: glow2022.funraise.org

Rent a Swan Boat on Echo Park Lake after 7:24 p.m. (how’s that for specific?) and your ride will be illuminated. The paddleboats can fit up to five and they’re also dog-friendly. Reservations required.

Online: wheelfunrentals.com

At Disneyland and California Adventure, the Nighttime Spectaculars are back and dazzling, including the Main St. Electrical Parade, the World of Color show and the fireworks.

Catch the Last Summer Concerts

Free Sunset Concerts at The Skirball: Sing and dance to a world-class lineup of local musicians whose work amplifies the Skirball’s values to pursue justice, build community, show kindness, and honor memory. On the schedule: Rocky Dawuni (July 28), Nefesh Mountain (Aug. 4), Booker T. Jones (Aug. 11), ADG7 (Aug. 18), and Son Rompe Pera (Aug. 25) at 8 p.m.

Good to Know: Parking is $20 upon arrival, $15 with advance purchase ($5 for members with advance purchase)

2701 N. Sepulveda Blvd.
Los Angeles
Online: skirball.org/sunset-concerts

Join in KCRW Summer Nights: Free, all-ages, outdoor concerts being held across the city during the month of Aug. at various locations like Chinatown, One Colorado and Descanso Gardens.

When: July 28, 30, Aug. 13, 20, 28, Sept. 3, 10, 11, 22 and 29
Cost: Free
Online: kcrw.com/summer-nights

Head to the Hollywood Bowl: The roster of events features plenty of fun for the kids, including showings of Back to the Future with a live score performance by the LA Phil, a Sing-Along Sound of Music and a Tchaikovsky spectacular with post-show fireworks to make you feel like it’s the Fourth of July all over again.

When: Aug. 5 & 6: Back to the Future with the LA Phil; Aug. 12 & 13: Tchaikovsky Spectacular with Fireworks; Sept. 17: Sing-Along Sound of Music.
Cost: $14-85

2301 N Highland Ave.
Los Angeles
Online: hollywoodbowl.com

Enjoy Global Music at Levitt Pavilion LA: Throughout the summer months, MacArthur Park transforms into a sonically charged urban oasis with free concerts from established and emerging artists. The electrifying lineup features international greats as well as LA’s own superstar talents who perform a wide variety of genres including cumbia, rock, soul, ska, mariachi, electronic dance music, folkloric music from Mexico & Central America, Tejano, reggae and many more.

When: Fri.-Sun., through Sept. 4.
Cost: Free

2230 W. 6th St.
Los Angeles
Online: levittlosangeles.org

Watch Movies under the Stars

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Take advantage of not having to wake up early for school (yet), BYOP (that’s Bring Your Own Popcorn) and watch an outdoor movie at these fun LA spots:

Boat Cinema: Reserve a mini electric boat and sit on Santa Clarita’s Castaic Lake to watch flicks like Grease, The Sandlot and Mamma Mia.

Online: boatcinema.com

Hollywood Forever Cemetery: Upcoming kid-friendly favorites include A League of Their Own and Raiders of the Lost Ark

Online: hollywoodforever.com

Street Food Cinema: At locations all around LA, sample tasty street food and popular films after the sun goes down. This summer’s kid-friendly picks include: Encanto, Guardians of the Galaxy, The Princess Bride, High School Musical and The Goonies

Online: streetfoodcinema.com

Or check out one of these night-based activities with the kids.

Last Chance to See these Exhibits

Deep dive into the vibrant works of artist Frida Kahlo in the interactive exhibit Immersive Frida Kahlo—slated to close Aug. 13.

The Butterfly Pavilion at the NHM will be wrapping up its seasonal exhibit—slated to close Sept. 5.

Create a Memory Sphere, punch buttons on the Control Panel and explore all your big feelings in Emotions at Play with Pixar’s Inside Out, a hands-on exhibit at the Discovery Cube based on the beloved Pixar film—slated to close Sept. 11.

At the magical Bob Baker Marionette Theater, watch the puppets in ¡Fiesta!, a love letter to Latin America—slated to close Sept. 18.

Take One Last Quick Getaway

Escape to Big Bear. It’s like summer camp without the week-long commitment. Ride the chair lift, glow golf, go tubing, mountain biking and more at Big Bear Mountain Resort. Coast down the mountain on a bobsled track or water slide at the Alpine Slide. Or take to the lake for paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing and boating. Hungry? Check out Wrap It Up, Stick Em Up for summer classics like deep-fried twinkies and funnel cake, or hitCafé Crepe, a convenient stop on the way out of town.

Check out our full list of what to do in Big Bear with kids including where to stay and eat.

Explore the Summer Gardens before They Turn to Fall

Visit Descanso Gardens in La Canada Flintridge. Here kids can play hide and seek in the majestic Oak Forest with trees hundreds of years old, or relax by the serene Japanese-style garden with its shaded paths and koi-filled stream. Adam Schwerner’s immersive art experience, Your (Un)Natural Garden, is happening now through the end of the year.

Good to Know: Non-members must purchase an advance ticket to Descanso. Members can visit anytime.

Explore The Los Angeles County Arboretum and Botanic Garden in Arcadia. If you haven’t been yet this summer, this should definitely be on your summer bucket list. With 127 acres of flowers, trees and plants to explore (plus peacocks roaming about and a waterfall!), it’s a true oasis. Enjoy live concerts during Arboretum Summer Nights, 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. July 29, Aug. 5 & 19.

Good to Know: Tickets must be bought in advance online.

Explore LA’s Beaches & Tide Pools

Leo Carrillo State Park: Discover snails, sea anemones, starfish and more at the tide pools.

El Matador Beach: Another Malibu must. Explore the sea caves and tunnels off-the-beaten path. This beach is also a beautiful spot to watch the sunset.

See the Grunion Run. August is the last month you can catch the Grunion run.

Last Days of Summer at the Farm

Pick your produce: Skip the middleman and head straight to the source! Go pick your own delicious summer fruits at these amazing LA area farms.

Animals & More: If you’d rather see farm animals than produce, here are our favorite animal encounters near LA.

Dive into LA’s Best Donuts, Ice Cream & Instagrammable Desserts

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It’s just not summer without ice cream. Here the scoop on where to find the best ice cream in LA.

LA is a donut town. Check out our favorite donut shops around LA.

Do it for the ‘gram. Impress all your friends back east with our only-in-LA desserts that are meant to be shared…socially.

Shop & Play in Los Angeles

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Cheer on the Angel City Football Club. In Jul. 2020, the ACFC was announced as an LA-based member of the National Women’s Soccer League and in April of this year, the team took to the field. ACFC is co-owned by actor and activist Natalie Portman and supported by an impressive lineup of investors including Serena Williams, Jennifer Garner, Eva Longoria, Glennon Doyle and Billie Jean King to name a very few. Tickets start at $17.

Play ball with The Dodgers who are in the heart of their season. On Fri. nights, fans can come down onto the field after the game to watch fireworks.

Shop Unique Markets: A long-standing tradition in LA and a must-do with the family. Discover the best emerging brands and help small businesses survive by attending the 2-day outdoor marketplace featuring over 100 curated sellers, meticulously hand-picked to ensure an inspiring experience. Kids 14 and under free.

—Holly Hays

I Didn’t See My Son’s Disability Until He Was 15

By Stephanie Duesing

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

June 8, 2022

My son, Sebastian, and I lived in the same house for 15 years. I gave birth to him. I changed his diapers and taught him to ride a bicycle.

I was a stay-at-home mom, and he was my only child. We spent hours together every day playing and doing crafts together. He painted the most extraordinary pictures even as a toddler. His existence filled my imagination from the moment that I looked at the faint blue positive mark on the pregnancy test.

But I didn’t truly know Sebastian until he was 15. I didn’t know him, because I didn’t see him.

Nobody saw him. Sebastian is the only person in the world known to see with words like a dolphin sees with sound. His blindness is an invisible disability. He has always slipped through our sighted world with what appeared to be the same ease as a spinner dolphin flying through the air.

Now Sebastian is 18, and every time he hugs me I can still feel the shell of his tiny newborn ear against my lips and his infant body in the nook of my shoulder where his chest meets mine. I always inhale, trying to recapture that baby smell and the tickle of almost invisible hair on my lips. His hair is now thick and smooth, not the dandelion fuzz of pale blond.

I cherished every sweet moment with him when he was small. Every hug, every smile, every game of hide-and-seek. I rocked him to sleep each night when he was little. We read aloud together until he was 12. He still hates Les Miserables. Tolkien was more his thing, with the dragons, wizards, and the magic ring that makes you invisible but also drains your soul.

He still hugs me every night before I go up to bed. Even after everything, especially after everything, Sebastian tells me that he loves me. When his long arms reach around my shoulders and he leans, I can still feel his little sneakers banging my hips and his little toddler arms hugging my neck. I smell the ghost of Cheerios-past every time.

In the car when we talk about the things we’ve been through together, about how I finally came to know him and see him, I reach out my hand to him. Sebastian’s cool, long-fingered artist’s hand lands in mine, squeezing. In his gentle adult grasp, I feel the ghostly hand of a child in mine, much smaller.

What magic ring did Sebastian have that cast its spell so thoroughly over him that it silently saved him while killing his soul? Surely it was not the cloak of invisibility that he wore all through his childhood as he zoomed through my house waving his wand. He was Darry, King of the Fairies and Professor of Defense Against the Dark Arts. He cast his charm all over so thoroughly that I didn’t see him. Nobody saw him.

I remember his eyes, so bright blue and filled with pain as we both sobbed on the kitchen floor. It was January of 2017, and we had just discovered that 15-year-old Sebastian couldn’t recognize his own face and had taught himself to navigate our own home by counting his steps and turns. I had to tell him that he’d been born blind, not understanding how it was possible myself.

After I finally saw him and his invisible disability, I was crushed with guilt. How could I, as his loving mother, not see what was there before my eyes? Not seeing him kept me from giving the support he truly needed.

Yet with time, I came to realize that I had done nothing wrong. Like him, I did not know I was blind: blind to the side of him nobody could see. My intentions were always good and pure. They were rooted in love and tenderness and a desire to be the best mother I could be.

That’s what we all want as mothers. But sometimes, life creates blind spots. When we come to recognize them, we must accept and learn from them.

Now I am privileged to see the man who walks through this world with dignity and grace. His dry, laconic humor cracks me up, and his striking art inspires me. With his help and support, I am fighting to end the discrimination against the millions of people who have cerebral/cortical visual impairment. (CVI was identified as the number one cause of visual impairment in the developed world more than 10 years ago and still doesn’t have a diagnostic code.)

Every day, I celebrate seeing him for the wonderful man he is.

Originally published May 2021.

Stephanie Duesing

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

Stephanie Duesing is the author of Eyeless Mind: A Memoir About Seeing and Being Seen, a true story about the discovery of her son Sebastian’s almost total blindness at the age of fifteen. Stephanie is devoted to raising awareness of Cerebral/Cortical-Visual Impairment (CVI) and advocating for patients with this visual impairment.

100 Outdoor Adventures to Do Before Your Kids Turn 10

by Erin LemMay 5, 2022

While indoor play has its time and place, there’s nothing like getting out into the fresh air to make memories with your kids. You don’t need a ton of supplies or money, you just need a little imagination. These year-round ideas for spontaneous play make the ultimate bucket list of outdoor adventures for this summer and beyond. Scroll down to get going!

family enjoying outdoor adventures like camping with kids

photo: iStock

1. Go camping and spend the night in a real tent (the backyard totally counts!).

2. Not into camping? Try glamping!

3. Find a pond and feed the ducks.

4. Go fishing in a canoe.

5. Hike up a mountain and admire the views from the top.

6. Build a sandcastle with just your hands.

7. Run through a sprinkler in your backyard.

little boy playing in the sprinkler is one of our favorite outdoor adventures

photo: MI PHAM via Unsplash

8. Plant a tree.

9. Catch fireflies in a jar.

10. Jump into a lake.

11. Ride in a rowboat.

12. Explore a forest.

13. Stargaze.

14. Run a mile.

15. Pick fruit off a tree (or a bush!).

add flying a kit to your list of outdoor adventures

photo: Kilian Kremer via Unsplash

16. Fly a kite.

17. Plant a garden.

18. Roll down a grassy hill.

19. Make a fort with driftwood and sticks found on the beach.

20. Go water tubing down a lazy river.

21. Seek out the most picturesque playground with a view and snap away.

22. Go on a hike and see how many types of wildflowers you can spot.

23. Perfect your handstands and cartwheels.

24. Have a three-legged race.

25. Host a water balloon toss.

26. Play capture the flag.

27. Build a fort with boxes and sheets.

28. Roast s’mores over a real fire.

29. Climb a tree.

kids hanging out under a tree is one of the easiest outdoor adventures to have

photo: Marcus Wallis via Unsplash

30. Fill your yard with bubbles.

31. Make a flower crown out of mini daisies.

32. Create a paper airplane and see how far it will fly.

33. Count to 60 while hula hooping.

34. Learn to ride a two-wheeler bike.

35. Take story time outside by reading your favorite book under a tree.

36. Strap on the life vests and kayak on a lake.

37. Surprise your postal carrier with a thank you gift.

38. Make your own trail mix and then head out on a hike.

39. Go on an overnight backpacking trip.

girl checking kayaking off her list of outdoor adventures

photo: Filip Mroz via Unsplash

40. Sail a leaf boat down a creek.

41. Go an entire day without technology (yes, that includes your smartphone!).

42. Take a family bike ride (don’t forget the helmets!).

43. Teach your kids old-school games like Red Rover and bobbing for apples.

44. Play frisbee.

45. Lay back and look for shapes in the clouds.

46. Play duck, duck, goose.

47. Build a rocket ship out of cardboard.

photo: iStock

48. Decorate your sidewalk with imaginative chalk art.

49. Make a nature collage.

50. Play hopscotch.

51. Create an impromptu obstacle course at your local playground. Hop over logs, whiz down slides and swing on the monkey bars.

52. Make a bird feeder.

53. Visit a farm and feed a horse.

54. Pick a wildflower bouquet.

55. Have a family meal outside.

family having a picnic is one of the sweetest outdoor adventures to have

photo: iStock

56. Jump rope 100 times without stopping.

57. Paint garden sticks.

58. Try composting (psst…here’s how to easily build your own bin).

59. Play hide-and-seek amongst the trees at your local park.

60. Take a photo every weekend for a year. At the end of the year turn your photos into a collage or album.

61. After a storm put on your rain boots and see who can make the biggest puddle splash.

62. Go geocaching.

63. Take your kids fishing. Don’t have a creek bed near you? Make your own dry creek and go fish!

64. Cruise like you did as a kid with a pair of roller skates.

65. Make a bug catcher out of a mason jar.

66. Spread literacy by building a Little Free Lending Library in your front yard.

photo: iStock

67. Host a mini Olympics.

68. Get up early and watch the sunrise as a family.

69. Play freeze tag.

70. Plant an herb garden with a reclaimed wheelbarrow.

71. Try breakfast camping.

72. Watch the planes land at your local airport.

73. Make a time capsule and bury it for discovery 50 years from now!

74. Make your own bubbles.

75. Create instruments out of what you find in a park and then have a jam session.

76. Make mud pies.

kid playing in mud as an outdoor adventure

photo: iStock

77. Embark on a letterboxing adventure.

78. Create a new family tradition and follow it every year.

79. Look for seashells on the beach.

80. Take a walk in the rain.

81. Walk (or run!) a full circle around your favorite park.

82. Make and float your own sailboat.

83. Construct a water wall.

84. Make a terrarium with what you find outdoors.

stargazing is one of the most unforgettable outdoor adventures for kids

photo: iStock

85. Spot a shooting star.

86. Have an ice cream taste test.

87. Go to a baseball game.

88. Enjoy an afternoon of outdoor art.

89. Set up a lemonade stand.

90. Have a backyard car wash.

91. Play “parachute” with a sheet.

92. Learn a new sport.

93. Discover why boats float.

94. Make a fairy (or gnome!) garden.

95. Create your own sundial.

96. Go on a night hike.

97. Collect sand at the beach to make a craft.

98. Whip up a few magic potions.

99. Skip rocks across the water’s surface.

100. Look for rainbows after a storm.

— Sara Olsher, Erin Feher, Laura Rodde, Jen Caynan and Erin Lem

15 Best Outdoor Baby Toys for Summer 2022

by Suzanna LoganApril 12, 2022

This is it, parents: the 15 outside toys for baby that you’ll need to keep your little one entertained this summer until the weather changes. Water, bubbles, balls and active play will keep kids happy and wipe them out for naptime. We’ve also offered product suggestions to make your shopping easier.

1. Splash Mat

baby outdoor toy, best splash mat for babies

Introduce your child to the old-fashioned fun of playing in the sprinklers with a tot-size splash mat. All the fun of a public splash pad—with none of the big-kid crowds. Splash mats allow babies to stay cool and interact with water without having to be submerged in it. We love the fan favorite SplashEZ 3-in-1 A-Z Splash Mat ($26) for its fun theme and gentle spraying action.

2. Baby Pool

babymoov baby pool, outdoor tent and pool with shade for baby, summer baby toys

Here’s an equation for summer fun: an inflatable pool + a few inches of water = hours of fun for your little guppy. For wee ones, we like the Playkids Fill 'n Fun Water Play Mat ($10). For bigger babes, the Babymoov Aquani Protective Pop-Up 3-in-1 Portable Baby/Toddler Pool Play Area ($91, pictured above) is a winner thanks to a built-in sunshade, removable mosquito net and attached toys.

3. Water Table

Made for fun in the sun, a water table is an ideal toy for encouraging little ones' imagination, developing early motor skills and introducing water play. The Little Tikes Fish 'N Splash Water Table ($45) features a fishing pole, net, cup and colorful critters to play with.

4. Sand Table

If you can't get to the beach, bring the beach to your baby. Not only do tots have a blast, but they'll be touching, digging, burying and pouring their way into important sensory experiences. Add small tools like shovels, cars and miniature animals to up the fun—and learning—factor. This cute SOWOW Water Table Sand Table by Step2 ($36) will have baby feeling anything but crabby.

5. Toy Ball

When it comes to your babe's outdoor toy lineup, basic can be a good thing. There are few things more fun for a little one than tossing, bouncing or throwing a ball. (No wonder "ball" is a common first word!) The Edushape Sensory See-Me Ball (from $15) fits the bill by being able to do all the things a conventional ball can do, plus it has a nubby texture that makes it easy for tiny hands to grasp.

6. Toy Truck

Giving your child access to simple toys that encourage creativity and imagination is a smart parenting move. Plus, it's a universally known fact that kids love filling up and dumping things out of a toy dump truck over and over (and over). And because you never know what babies might put in their mouth, this Green Toys Dump Truck ($27) is made from recycled plastic that is free of BPA, PVC and phthalates.

7. Bubble Machine

No matter what stage of development your baby is in, we can guarantee one thing: They love bubbles. Blow a few into the air and watch infants become mesmerized by the floating orbs and older tots go into chase mode, complete with giggles and waving arms. Save your breath with a Little Kids® Fubbles™ Bubble Blastin' Machine ($12). Thanks to the placement of the bubble wands, bubbles tend to blow at baby's level rather than high into the air out of reach. Because we all know that popping them is half the fun!

8. Baby Swing

Depending on their mood, your babe will go swinging into high-energy fun or chilled-out bliss with an outdoor swing. Swings give alert infants and older tots a chance to take in the sights and sounds of the surrounding world from a safe perch, and they give tired or fussy babes a dose of soothing comfort thanks to their gentle, back-and-forth rocking motion. We like the TP Quadpod Adjustable 4-in-1 Swing Seat ($75) for its cocoon-like shape, safety bar and straps. There are cheaper swings on the market, but this one can be reconfigured to support kids comfortably up to age 8, so it's worth the extra investment.

9. Slide

A slide may seem like a simple toy, but it is actually a powerhouse in the outdoor toy lineup. Besides offering your little one a fun ride, slides help kids develop balance, coordination and visual skills. Choose a slide that's low to the ground to keep things safe for littles. The Little Tikes Hide and Seek Climber ($100) is an all-time favorite thanks to its gently sloping slide, rock wall and low-profile design.

10. Ball Pit

Babies don't only have a ball in a ball pit, they also have the chance to work on their coordination and visual skills. The Bright Starts 5-in-1 Your Way Ball Play Activity Gym ($54) sets up (and folds up) easily and allows babies to exercise their hand-eye coordination by sliding, dropping and popping balls into the four activity stations.

LA Botanical Gardens & Flower Fields to Visit Now (Plus Insider Tips)

by Jennifer O'BrienMarch 25, 2022

With spring’s long-awaited arrival, it’s time to spend more afternoons outside, perhaps languishing over a picnic and communing with nature. With that in mind, we’ve rounded up some of the most beautiful botanical gardens and flower fields near LA to take your family for the day (with most of them being free!). So whether you want to stop and smell the roses, discover a waterfall, or gawk at some peacocks, these spectacular garden spots around LA are blooming with possibilities.

Botanical Gardens in LA Worth Visiting with Free Admissions

Arlington Garden

Arlington Garden in Pasadena is a climate-appropriate, water-conserving, habitat garden offering learning and inspiration to all its guests. Its mission is to promote urban wildlife habitat and demonstrate the use of regenerative gardening techniques which refrain from the use of herbicides, pesticides and chemical fertilizers.

Insider Tip: This garden is one of our favorite spots to picnic in LA and families are welcome to bring their pets as long as they are leashed.

Hours: Daily, 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.
Cost: Free

Arlington Garden
275 Arlington Dr.
Pasadena
Online: arlingtongardenpasadena.com

Manhattan Beach Botanical Garden

Stroll along the garden's paths to discover plants, flowers, birds, butterflies and more at this lovely, pint-sized demonstration garden in Manhattan Beach.

Insider Tip: Conveniently located right next to ever-popular toddler and big-kid friendly Polliwog Park, after strolling through the garden head over to this playground and let the kids swing and slide their hearts out.

Hours: Daily, sunrise to sunset, except Fri. from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. when the garden is closed for maintenance
Cost: Free

Manhattan Beach Botanical Garden
1236 N. Peck Ave.
Manhattan Beach
Online: mbbgarden.org

Exposition Park Rose Garden

where to find flowers around LA — Hillary F. via Yelp

After being closed for annual maintenance from Jan. 1 to Mar. 15, the Rose Garden has reopened and is showing off its latest blooms. Located in Exposition Park, next to the Natural History Museum of Los Angeles, stroll through to discover beds of breathtaking roses and visit the beautiful central fountain perfect for making wishes.

Insider Tip: Because this is such a great place to take photos, go in the morning just after opening or afternoon just before closing, when the so-called magic light will help deliver the best shots.

Hours: 9 a.m. - sunset
Cost: Free

Exposition Park Rose Garden
701 State Dr.
Los Angeles
Online: laparks.org

Conejo Valley Botanic Garden

The Conejo Valley Botanic Garden is 33 acres of natural terrain in Thousand Oaks. From the sweeping vistas at the peak of the Garden through 15 unique, hillside specialty gardens, and onto the hiking trail along the steam, this is a destination not to be missed.

Insider Tip: The Kids' Adventure Garden is open on Sun. from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. and features a tree house, zoo garden and more. The Herb Garden, Butterfly Garden and Lillian's Meadow (featuring a variety of native and drought-tolerant plants) are worth a visit as well.

Hours: Daily, sunrise to sunset, except Jul. 4
Cost: Free

Conejo Valley Botanic Garden
400 W. Gainsborough Rd.
Thousand Oaks
Online: conejogarden.org

UCLA Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden

Located on the UCLA campus, this garden is a true urban oasis, packing a variety of settings into 7.5 acres. Bring your pooch along as well—pets on leashes are welcome!

Insider Tip: Don't miss the Subtropical Woodlands with their fairy-tale-like willow and fig trees; a stream that runs through the center of the garden and is home to koi, turtles and crayfish; the Habitat Garden, a favorite spot for butterflies and hummingbirds.

Hours: Open Feb. - Oct., Mon. -Fri. from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Sat. - Sun. from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; Nov. - Jan., Mon. - Fri. from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.;Sat. - Sun. from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
Cost: Free

UCLA Mildred E. Mathias Botanical Garden
707 Tiverton Dr.
Westwood
Online: botgard.ucla.edu

S. Mark Taper Life Science Botanical Garden

If you're looking for a quick nature fix in the San Fernando Valley, visit this two-acre garden on the Pierce College campus in Woodland Hills. The peaceful spot features drought-tolerant trees and cactuses, flowers and bushes, and grapevines trellising the central pergola.

Insider Tips: Looking for some animal encounters? Wildlife-loving kids will have fun spotting hummingbirds, egrets, ducks, squirrels, cottontail rabbits, frogs, lizards and turtles.

Hours: Daily, 6 a.m. - 11 p.m.
Cost: Free; parking permit required on weekdays

Mark Taper Life Science Botanical Garden
6201 Winnetka Ave.
Woodland Hills
Online: piercecollege.edu

Stoneview Nature Center

Tucked away in the Blair Hills of Culver City (across the road from Kenneth Hahn Park) as part of the Park to Playa Trail, is Stoneview Nature Center—a lovely five-acre site that encourages families to discover a new passion for the great outdoors. Through Stoneview's meditative garden spaces, inspiring artwork, urban nature walks, Demonstration Garden, and Community Kitchen, guests gain a new understanding and respect of their environment by making positive connections with their bodies, minds, food, communities and ecosystems.

Insider Tip: Every Sat. at 10 a.m. and at noon, the nature center holds a free, weekly program where kids can meet and learn more about the park from the Natural Area Superintendents.

Hours. March - Oct., Tues. - Sun., 8 a.m. - 7:30 p.m.; and Nov. - Feb., Tues. - Sun., 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.; closed Mon.
Cost: Free

Stoneview Nature Center
5950 Stoneview Dr.
Culver City
Online: parks.lacounty.gov/stoneview-nature-center

The Japanese Garden

After a lengthy closure, The Japanese Garden in Van Nuys has finally reopened to the public—this spot also makes our list of incredible places around LA you've probably never been. We certainly could all use a little zen right now and this is the perfect place to find it. With 6.5 acres that include a meditation garden, Tortoise Island, Wisteria Arbor, breathtaking waterfalls, a Water Garden, beautiful bridges and lanterns throughout the property, you’ll instantly be transported to Japan.

Insider Tip: While the garden alone is worth the visit, once life returns to normal, come back and make reservations for tea service at the Shoin Building—an authentic 4 1/2 tatami-mat teahouse adjacent to the tea garden.

Hours: Open Mon. - Thurs., 10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. and closed Fri. - Sun.
Cost: Free, advanced reservations required

The Japanese Garden
6100 Woodley Ave.
Van Nuys
Online: thejapanesegarden.com

Botanical Gardens in LA Worth the Price of Admission

LA Arboretum & Botanical Gardens

Discover roaming peacocks, hidden trails, sunbathing turtles and more at this 127-acre oasis in Arcadia. With wide open spaces to romp and run, as well as countless paths to explore, kids will zonk out by the time you get back in the car – you’re welcome. If the crew gets hungry during your visit, grab a bite at the Arboretum Peacock Cafe or bring food from home and enjoy it in the picnic area outside the Arboretum. While the waterfall is on everyone’s must-see list, the best way to check it out is to take the steps down through it. Make your way to Tallac Knoll, where you'll discover the lily pond and a meandering set of steps and walkways that takes you to the waterfall at the bottom.

Insider Tip: If you venture through the Madagascar Spiny Forest or along the Aloe Trail (both noted on the Arboretum's map), you'll happen upon a tangle of ancient trees, roots and branches made for climbing.

Hours: Daily, 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.; advanced timed tickets required
Cost: $15 for adults, $5 for children 5 - 12, and children 4 and under are free

LA County Arboretum & Botanical Gardens
301 N. Baldwin Ave.
Arcadia
Online: arboretum.org

Descanso Gardens

Travel about 15 miles north of DTLA to discover this 160-acre garden in La Cañada Flintridge. You could easily spend all day wandering the grounds, which include the majestic Oak Forest with trees hundreds of years old, the serene Japanese-style garden with its shaded paths and koi-filled stream, and the Children's Maze, located just beyond the rose garden. In late March, be sure to check out the tulips, camellias, irises, lilacs and cherry trees, which are all in bloom. During your trip, don’t miss a ride on the Enchanted Railroad – a 1/8^th- scale replica of a diesel train that travels a section of the Gardens near the Promenade. Riders must be at least 30 inches tall and able to ride on their own. Be sure check the website ahead of time to make sure the train is operating the day of your visit.

Insider Tip: Behind the Sturt Haaga Gallery, you'll find the tucked-away Hope’s Garden. Venture up a set of stairs for amazing views. Afterward, take the stairs down to the Camellia Forest and you’ll find yourself immersed in the garden.

READ: Our Full Guide to Exploring Descanso Gardens with Kids

Hours: Spring/Summer hours are Mon. - Fri., 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. and Sat. - Sun., 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.; advanced tickets required
Cost: $15 for adults, $5 for children 5-12, and children 4 and under are free. Enchanted Railroad tickets are $5 and must be purchased at the visitor center the day of your visit.

Descanso Gardens
1418 Descanso Dr.
La Cañada Flintridge
Online: descansogardens.org

The Huntington Library, Art Museum, and Botanical Gardens

The pristine Huntington Library, Art Museum and Botanical Gardens is home to 16 themed gardens spread across 120 acres. The whimsical Helen and Peter Bing Children’s Garden is a prime highlight of any family visit and encourages imaginative play as littles splash in the water, romp and run among topiary animals, discover fairy doors, and even hold the magic of magnetic forces in their tiny hands. Kids will want to check out the Lily Ponds (home to turtles, bullfrogs and turtles, bullfrogs and ducks); the tropical Jungle Garden with its canopy of trees, giant leaves and climbing vines; and the Chinese Garden where you can wander behind a waterfall and across bridges.

Insider Tip: The 15-acre Chinese Garden is a definite must-see regardless of how much time you have to spend. In addition to the meandering paths and waterfall, be sure to explore the Stargazing Tower, situated on the highest point in the garden with breathtaking views.

Hours: Advanced online reservations are only required on weekends and Mon. holidays, but reservations are strongly recommended for weekdays as well. Open daily (except Tues.) from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Cost: $25 for adults ($29 on weekends); $13 for children 4-11; children under 4 are free

The Huntington Library, Art Museum and Botanical Gardens
1151 Oxford Rd.
San Marino
Online: huntington.org

South Coast Botanic Garden

best places to see flowers in LA — Christopher Y. via Yelp

Located on the Palos Verdes Peninsula, the South Coast Botanic Garden boasts 87 acres and features more than 2,500 different species of plants. Kids will love climbing the limbs and tree roots in the Banyan Grove and playing tag on the sprawling Upper Meadow.

Good to Know: The SOAR exhibit in the Host and Nectar Garden runs Apr. 1 – Jul. 31 where kids get to interact with the butterfly habitat and learn about the emergence of new species. Also, worth your time is the exhbit, Hide and Seek: Art Meets Nature. Download the Hide and Seek activity guide before you go, and see who can find all eight sculptures placed throughout the grounds first!

Insider Tip: Find the best spots for snapping selfies and family photos here. Also, every third Sun. of the month, the Garden allows visitors to bring their four-legged friends!

Hours: Daily, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m.; advanced tickets required
Cost: $15 for adults, $5 for children 5 - 12 and children 4 and under are free

South Coast Botanic Garden
26300 Crenshaw Blvd.
Palos Verdes
424-452-0920
Online: southcoastbotanicgarden.org

Flower Fields Worth Driving to from LA

The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch

With gorgeous blooms as far as the eye can see, The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch are well worth a day trip. From Mar. until early May, families will love exploring 50 world famous acres of ranunculus whether they take in the sights through a leisurely stroll on foot or opt for an open-air wagon ride pulled by a tractor.

Insider Tip: Don’t forget to stop by the Artist Gardens, Bird Aviaries, American Flag of Flowers, Sea of Sunflowers and the Butterfly Garden during your visit. And if your trip falls between Thurs. - Mon., there are plenty of food vendors on site to keep hangry littles happy – everything from pizza and strawberries to kettle corn and soft serve ice cream.

Hours: Open daily, Mar. 24 - May 8, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.; advanced timed entry tickets required
Cost: Adults are $22 and kids ages 3 -10 are $10

The Flower Fields at Carlsbad Ranch
5704 Paseo Del Norte
Carlsbad
Online: theflowerfields.com

– Jennifer O’Brien

The Benefits of Risky Play

By Rebecca Wallace

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

March 16, 2022

Rates of depression and anxiety disorders among young Americans have seen a fivefold to eightfold increase over the past five decades, mainly due to a dramatic decline in free play among kids over the same period, says an article on Psychology Today.

Now, most parents don’t allow their kids to participate in any form of free or risky play for fear of injury and abduction. While parents should supervise their children’s safety in both public and private playground settings, they should also understand that a scraped knee or elbow is part of the rite of growing up and learning to be resilient.

Participating in risky play helps develop important life skills, such as self-control, resilience, problem solving, and team coordination. So, here are some useful tips on how to introduce your kids to risky play.

Types of Risky Play for Kids As the term suggests, risky play often involves risk taking, but it allows kids to test their limits and gives them a sense of achievement upon successful completion of the play. According to a study published in the European Early Childhood Education Research Journal, risky play can be categorized into six main types:

1. Play with great heights, for instance, climbing a tree or any other tall structure
2. Play near dangerous elements, such as fire and deep bodies of water
3. Play with potentially harmful tools, such as knives, hammers, saws and bows and arrows
4. Disappearing, for instance, playing hide and seek
5. Rough‐and‐tumble play, for instance, games like wrestling or chasing one another
6. Play with high speed, such as skiing, bike riding, and playing with swings and slides

Tips to Introduce Your Kids to Risky Play

• Encourage kids to play outside: Inspire your kids to leave the safe indoor zone and let them play outdoor games. Even a quick walk across the nearby part or a visit to the neighborhood playground would be a great first step. Eventually, you want to let your kids get outside alone. You can watch them from a distance, but let them feel independent outside.

• Avoid negative words: Instead of telling your kids, “Don’t climb that tree,” or “Don’t run so fast,” consider using positive words and phrases, such as, “You should know the right technique for tree-climbing before you can attempt it,” or “Make sure you’re in full control of your body when running fast.” Negative phrases evoke negative emotions, such as fear and can scare away your kids from risky play altogether.

• Consider safety: It may sound counterintuitive, but you must ensure the safety of your children. To that end, assess the risk involved in a risky play before letting your kids participate in it. If, for instance, your kids want to participate in a game where they could get minor injuries, you should still allow them to play. But when the risks are major or life-threatening, then that’s a red signal.

• Resist the urge to help: Even when you wanted to, resist the urge to help them for at least 17 seconds, suggests Professor Mariana Brussoni of the University of British Columbia as quoted in a CBC article. Instead of offering them immediate help, let them deal with a problem for some time. That way, you’ll allow them to figure things out on their own.

• Give them enough time: One common mistake parents make is telling their kids to hurry up and finish a risky play within a certain amount of time. It doesn’t work that way for kids. Let your kids play at their pace. Give them the freedom to play the way they want to. Constantly giving instructions could do more harm than good. Simply get out of their way and provide guidance only when they ask for it.

Finally, let your kids decide what type of risky play they want to participate in. Experts suggest that different kids have a natural inclination to different types of risky play, and parents should listen to their children.

Rebecca Wallace

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

Rebecca Wallace is a mother of a 3 year old girl. Rebecca likes to share her experience and write on topics that would help other parents.

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