“Our greatness has always come from people who expect nothing and take nothing for granted—folks who work hard for what they have, then reach back and help others after them.” —Michelle Obama
Raising a compassionate and helpful child is not so easy these days. The natural self-centeredness of a child’s early years combined with a culture that highlights individual achievement over collective progress means that we will have some extra work to do as parents.
As you would guess, a child’s ability to care about and help others needs to be nurtured in their early years. In fact, it is most sustainable when “helping” becomes part of family life.
The wonderful thing about cultivating helpfulness is not only is it action-oriented, but it builds broader capabilities like compassion, kindness, and service to others. Children with a helping mindset become great friends, teammates, and co-workers. Families with helping habits strengthen the fabric that holds them together while infusing family life with new levels of meaning. The bottom line is that nothing connects us to each other like helping.
Unfortunately, these capabilities can get lost in our go-go, time-deficient worlds. Here are the five best strategies for developing helpfulness in your child and family life:
1. Model It: Leverage the fact that our young kids want to be like us. If they see us helping a neighbor with their groceries, they will want to help too! When they see us volunteering time at their school or making time for those in need, they will naturally cultivate the same values. Smaller acts of helpfulness are a great way to start because they can be copied right away. When you share your home-grown tomatoes, let your child deliver them to your neighbor. The simple act will create powerful feelings that they will want to replicate over and over.
2. Talk About It: The dinner table is often a great place to get the discussion going. Share an inspiring story about how a friend routinely takes in stray animals and works to get them placed with great families. Talk about how your family can help out. Also, when kids hit around age four it is a great time to talk about the environment and how we can all help. Take the family recycling program to the next level by reducing waste and maybe starting a compost pile. The Lorax by Dr. Seuss is a fun read and has a friendly “go green” message for kids.
3. Do It Together: An easy strategy is to include your little ones in things you are already doing. When you make a meal, give them a role. When you drop off clothes to charity, let them help too. Even in your daily regimen, try to find a task for them (time to bring your dirty clothes down!). The key is to slow down enough (and be patient enough) to make them a part of the things they see us doing. Be sure to thank them for helping out, but often the simple act of being included will provide its own reward.
4. Let Them Do It: It is not surprising that young children often feel more like passengers than crew members in family life. For their early years, we have had to constantly do things for them, but we need to start including their little helping hands as they approach pre-school. Give them their own set of chores that they can feel responsible for. Make it a checklist on the refrigerator that becomes a visible reminder of much they are helping. Finally, balance the need to do’s (making their bed) with the want to do’s (feeding the family dog).
5. Make It Rich in Rituals: Make helping feel like a rich family tradition with lots of meaningful rituals to look forward to. Here are some idea starters. Once a month help out at the local cat rescue and send pictures to friends encouraging adoption…add a visit to the ice cream after dropping off clothes at the donation center…when walking our dog, try to stop in at the local senior home and make some new friends…you get the idea. As you add and sustain these rituals, helping becomes more of who you are as a family, not just what you do.
All five strategies are simple and can become easy-to-repeat habits if we can add a little patience and discipline to the process. We want to make helping a natural part of our lives—and make it fun too!
It can be easy to get stuck in responding to our individual needs and lose our capacity to serve beyond ourselves. Paradoxically, when we take time to help, our own burdens shrink, and our hearts open in some powerful new ways!
Mike Morrison Ph.D.’s passion centers on developing leaders at all ages, from pre-schoolers to the corporate CEO leading a global enterprise. In today’s world, we all need to lead in some way and Mike has helped illuminate that path through three books, his most recent being Small Voice Says.
Are you looking for a chance to swap your New York City Slicker attire in favor of some overalls and mud boots? Gather the family and head to a nearby farm and experience some fresh air, fresh food, and a chance to work and rest hard. These farms are just a stone’s throw away from the city, and they welcome family visitors, whether they want to help out in the workload or just relax and enjoy country life for just a little while. Read on for our favorite farm stays for families in and around NYC!
This farmhouse isn't meant for single-family stays. Instead, it's a chance to collaborate with other families to form a group and all visit together — stays are reserved for over 16 people at a time. For a fee easily split between a few families, this trip gives you access to the entire house, complete with nine beautiful bedrooms, a yoga room, and a number of rooms with great views out.
The website calls itself "agriturismo-style boutique lodging" — in other words, you'll be getting an upscale, farm-like experience, rather than a gritty down-to-earth one. A perfect option if you have a lot of like-minded friends and want to experience the beauty of nature and fam life without having to make any sacrifices.
Go off the grid at this Walton farm, where you stay at intentionally offline canvas tents with comfy wooden floors. Tents are equipped with a stove, bed, small cabinet for belongings and a flushing toilet, so you won't be entirely roughing it.
Mornings begin with cow milking, a fresh-from-the-chicken egg and the option to buy freshly made loaves of bread along with local goodies like cheese. Certain days have scheduled events, like morning tours and brick oven pizza nights. Staying here requires a minimum of two nights, but discounts are available for staying even more nights.
$305/night on weekends (Fri-Sun), $345/night weekdays 1738 Freer Hollow Road Walton, NY Online: stonycreekfarmstead.com
For a real farm experience, visit Hull-O Farms, where visitors can take part in everyday activities around the farm. Watch or help the farmers go through their daily tasks and meet the animals, like cows, lambs, chickens and even kittens (which the kids are sure to love). Kids are allowed to (and encouraged to!) feed and help care for the animals under supervision of the friendly staff. There's something to do any time of the day!
Other activities include fishing, hayrides, nightly campfires and more. Once you've worked up an appetite, enjoy home-cooked, locally sourced meals.
There are a number of options for accommodations, from private rooms to a more communal experience. This year the farm is celebrating 25 years of being a farmstay, so you can snag special offers through their newsletter. (We went! Read our full review here!)
Inquire for price 10 Cochrane Road Durham, NY Online: hull-o.com
Looking for a longer stay? Better Farm has the option for a longer-term reservation for anyone who wants to stay more than a few days. Book a cozy private room or cabin for a summer month (or two!) and enjoy the gorgeous views of this 65-acre sustainable solar-powered organic farm and animal sanctuary. (Winter stays are available here as well!)
While you can take part in typical farm activities here, another big draw is the art-centric environment. Workshops, events, galleries, and performances mean you can enjoy some art in an idyllic location.
$50-$120/night; $35/night for loft spaces 31060 Cottage Hill Road Redwood, NY Online: betterfarm.org
Although it's no longer actually located in Woodstock, this spot is a great getaway if you're looking for a more "boutique" farm experience. Opening in April 2019, the Grey Barn offers visitors brand new, modern accommodations with private terraces and beautiful common space. As a bonus, each booking comes with a vegan breakfast made from local ingredients and a private tour of the grounds.
Visitors are encouraged to explore the sanctuary's 150 acres and get to know its 350+ resident animals. Proceeds from the room fee go into maintaining the sanctuary and continuing its nonprofit rescue and outreach work.
Each room has a maximum of two people, so be aware that larger families will need to book multiple rooms.
$250/night 2 Rescue Road High Falls, NY Online: thegraybarn.org
Stay with nearly 300 rescued animals at the Catskill Farm animal sanctuary by booking a room or suite at the Homestead. This pre-Civil War house has been renovated with eco-friendly methods and materials but keeps its unique look and style. Stays include a vegan breakfast, seasonal tours, and plenty of space and activities to keep anyone busy.
Many farm animals make the sanctuary their home, from cows and horses to chickens and pigs. Every rescued animal has background information available about it on the sanctuary's website, so you can truly get to know the story of every critter you come across.
This location is dog-friendly (for well-behaved dogs!) but your furry friend won't be allowed to visit the rescued animals with you. As a Homestead visitor, though, you'll have the freedom to wander the grounds of the sanctuary without an accompanying tour guide, a privilege which day guests don't get!
$135-$295/night 316 Old Stage Road Saugerties, NY Online: casanctuary.org
Welcome to East Hill, where you can stay at one of the 65 rooms, all of which have private bathrooms and are pet-friendly! This is one of the more active stays, with a huge variety of activities happening every day. Children's programs, night-time family-friendly events, a tennis court, indoor and outdoor pools, paddleboats and so much more will keep you and the little ones busy. You'll also find some more unique activities, like massage/reflexology and dodgeball.
Of course, there are also farm animals and activities to enjoy, like horseback riding, wagon rides and egg collecting.
Rates are per person and include 3 meals. Children get discounted rates, and kids under two stay free!
$148-$170/person per night 460 Monadnock Street Troy, NH Online: east-hill-farm.com
Start the day at Verdant View Farm at 8:30 with the farm's crew for a home-grown breakfast, then choose your adventure for the day. You can choose to stay on the grounds and play with the animals, including the farm's animals and friendly border collie, pygmy goats, bunnies, calves and chickens. All visitors are welcome to join in and help out with the daily farm tasks.
You can also choose to explore the surrounding area, which is located in the middle of Amish country. Visit museums, restaurants, local markets and attractions and more.
$99-$199/night, with additional fees for more than 2-4 guests (depending on the room) 429 Strasburg Rd. Paradise, PA Online: verdantview.com
Visit this farm in the summer and fall for a quaint farmstay experience on a working farm. There's no WiFi or television, so be prepared to experience the environment as it's meant to be! Help out on the farm or relax in a hammock then take a dip in the cottage pond. Farm activities include feeding the animals, egg collecting and joining the cows and sheep on the pasture. There are also plenty of books, board games, and outdoor activity equipment available to borrow.
The accommodations are less like a hotel and more like renting out a vacation house, including a fully stocked kitchen and outdoor barbeque. This location is very child-friendly — cribs, high chairs, baby pool, stroller and other child goodies are available for the farm's youngest visitors.
With Halloween sneaking up on us, pumpkin season is officially here. We’ve rounded up a list of the very best pumpkin patches in every state so you can snag your perfect future jack-o-lantern. Most of these spots offer fun extras, from hayrides and corn mazes to petting zoos and apple donuts. Just read on to let the autumnal fun begin.
Alabama: 4D Farm, Cullman This fun farm is a perennial family favorite. After picking out your pumpkin, you can venture through the corn maze, go for a ride on the cow train, take on a low ropes obstacle course and more.
Alaska: Reindeer Farm, Palmer This beautifully maintained farm is a great spot to visit any time you’re in Alaska, but it’s especially festive during the fall harvest season. You’ll get to see reindeer and elk, go on pony rides and of course pick out the perfect pumpkin.
Arizona: MacDonald’s Ranch, Scottsdale MacDonald’s Ranch is a horseback riding stable, and in the fall it offers an out-of-this-world pumpkin patch. During your visit, you’ll have the chance to pet animals, pan for gold, explore a hay maze and play a bunch of old-timey games, in addition to shopping locally grown pumpkins.
Arkansas: Motley’s Pumpkin Patch, Little Rock At Motley’s Pumpkin Patch, you can pick your own pumpkins right off the vine, then stick around to go on tractor rides, climb hay bales and watch pig races. What a day!
California: Underwood Family Farms, Moorpark Pumpkins get magical with fairytale-like names at Underwood Family Farms (Magic Lanterns, Aladdins, Cinderellas, Big Macs, Jack be Littles, etc.), and it’s a guaranteed good time with the chicken shows, labyrinths, tractor rides and more to keep your pumpkin pickers engaged. Click here for the full list of the best pumpkin patches in and around Los Angeles, or click here for the top spots in San Diego. If you’re in the Bay Area, click here to find a patch closer to home.
Colorado: Diana’s Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze, Canon City You’ll have the perfect fall day at Diana’s Pumpkin Patch & Corn Maze. The corn maze gets a new theme every year (this year’s is Mario Bros.) and takes you on an exciting scavenger hunt. Top off your visit by picking out the perfect pumpkin.
Connecticut: Jones Family Farms, Shelton With 25 acres of pumpkin patches, it’s safe to say you’ll find one you like at Jones Family Farms. Catch a hayride with your crew to pick your pumpkin straight off the vine.
Delaware: Fifer Orchards, Camden-Wyoming Fall wouldn’t be complete without a visit to Fifer Orchards. Every Saturday you can head to their Fall Fest to pick pumpkins, explore the corn maze, take a tour of the farm and play kid-friendly games.
1919 Allabands Mill Rd. Camden-Wyoming, DE Online: fiferorchards.com
Florida: Sweetfields Farm, Masaryktown This family-owned farm is totally worth the visit, with a five-acre corn maze, face painting and fresh-pressed apple cider in addition to an impressive pumpkin patch.
Georgia: Ole McDermitt’s Farm, Carrollton The time for pickin’ is now at Ole McDermitt’s Farm. Don’t forget to bring the camera because you’ll want to snap a pic of your cutie navigating the mini maze, shouting at the duck races and posing at the scarecrow dress-up station. For more awesome Atlanta picks where you can pick up some delicious jam or visit a petting zoo, click here.
Hawaii: Kula Country Farms, Kula Whether you’re a local or find yourself vacationing on Maui in October, Kula Country Farms is well worth a visit. Pick your own pumpkin, explore the kids’ garden, meet farm animals and get lost in the corn maze.
Idaho: Linder Farms, Meridian Make a day of it at Linder Farms—there’s a ton to do in addition to picking your pumpkin, from hayrides to a petting zoo to a corn box (think a massive sandbox filled with dried corn instead of sand).
Illinois: Goebbert’s Pumpkin Patch, Hampshire Goebbert’s Pumpkin Patch is Chicago’s end-all-be-all for everything exciting when it comes to pumpkin picking. Don’t miss out on the mechanical pumpkin eating dinosaur and the furry residents of Bunny Town! We’ve also covered many other amazing pumpkin patches around Chicago—click here to see them all.
Indiana: Beasley’s Orchard, Danville Hop on a hayride to take a tour of Beasley’s Orchard and pick out the perfect pumpkin. Be sure to stop by their store, where you can get an apple cider slushie, a hand-dipped caramel apple and locally made jams and jellies.
Iowa: Colony Pumpkin Patch, North Liberty At Colony Pumpkin Patch you can shop a great selection of carving and decorative pumpkins, explore a five-acre corn maze and participate in lots of kid-friendly activities. Sign us up!
Kansas: Schaake’s Pumpkin Patch, Lawrence A local favorite, this family-owned and operated farm is well worth a visit. Go on a hayride to pick your pumpkin, then meet farm animals and wander through the hay maze.
Kentucky: Devine’s Corn Maze and Pumpkin Patch, Harrodsburg In addition to pumpkin picking, at this fun spot, you can get lost in a big corn maze, go on wagon rides, pet critters, zoom down a giant slide and more.
Louisiana: Mrs. Heather’s Pumpkin Patch, Hammond This gem is way more than a pumpkin patch—kids will have the opportunity to learn how pumpkins grow, weigh and measure their pumpkin, milk a cow and go for a scenic walk on a nature trail.
Maine: Treworgy Family Orchards, Levant With more than 60 varieties of pumpkins, squash and gourds, it’s safe to say you’ll find the perfect one for you at Treworgy Family Orchards. After you’re done with that, visit the barn to pet goats and grab a batch of apple cider donuts from the cafe.
Maryland: Larriland Farm, Woodbine Thinking of throwing a fall birthday bash? Larriland Farm is the place to go for a deluxe hayride where your crew gets to pluck their favorite pumpkin as a party favor.
Massachusetts: Sauchuk’s Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch, Plympton It doesn’t get much more autumnal than this—go on a hayride to the pumpkin patch, get lost in a corn maze and even play a game of tug of war. When you’re all tired out, fuel up with delicious cider donuts.
Michigan: Johnson’s Giant Pumpkins, Saginaw This family-favorite spot is way more than just a pumpkin patch. You’ll have the chance to meet and pet critters, ride horses and even watch a trebuchet launch pumpkins into the sky.
Minnesota: Lendt’s Pumpkin Patch, Wyoming You’re sure to find an awesome pumpkin in the 40+ acres of Lendt’s Pumpkin Patch. Hop on a hayride to learn all about pumpkins while you’re there—you can even reserve a private ride for groups of 15 or more.
Mississippi: Mitchell Farms, Collins Mitchell Farms has been growing peanuts for over 30 years, but in the fall they also offer a great crop of pumpkins and lots of family fun. While you’re there, be sure to go on a wagon ride tour, explore the corn maze and check out the sunflower field.
Missouri: Fun Farm Pumpkin Patch, Kearney Make a day of it at Fun Farm Pumpkin Patch. They’ve got a great selection of pumpkins, a big corn maze and kids’ activities like rubber duck races and a barrel train.
Montana: Sweet Pickins’ Pumpkin Patch, Kalispell You’re sure to have an amazing day at Sweet Pickins’ Pumpkin Patch. Go on a tractor tour of the farm, pick your perfect pumpkin and go for a spin on their giant jumping pillow—and don’t forget to try their famous kettle corn, too!
Nebraska: Vala’s Pumpkin Patch, Gretna With over 50 attractions, you can easily spend the whole day exploring Vala’s Pumpkin Patch. From old-fashioned hayrack rides to kid-friendly play areas and awesome photo ops, there’s something for everyone.
Nevada: Gilcrease Orchard, Las Vegas The idea of an orchard in the middle of the desert might sound crazy, but Gilcrease Orchard is an awesome spot. We recommend heading there early in the morning to beat the heat and the crowds. Go on a hayride, pick the perfect pumpkin and grab a jug of their famous home-grown apple cider.
New Hampshire: Moulton Farm, Meredith Your whole crew will have a blast visiting Moulton Farm. Take a tractor ride to pick your own pumpkin right from the field, then get lost in the corn maze. Don’t forget to grab some apple cider donuts, too!
New Jersey: Duffield’s Farm Market, Sewell This family-owned and operated gem is a must-visit spot during the fall. Go on a hayride, pick the perfect pumpkin and nosh on a warm apple cider donut from their bakery.
New Mexico: Mesilla Valley Maze, Las Cruces With more than 30 activities included in the cost of admission, it’s safe to say your whole crew will be entertained at the Mesilla Valley Maze. They’ve got a great selection of pumpkins, a five-acre corn maze, giant slides, rubber duck races and more.
New York: Outhouse Orchards, North Salem Get personal and local with Outhouse Orchards, a family owned and operated farm in Westchester County. Not only can your lil’ gourd-ians nab a pumpkin, but they can fill their bag with apples, too. If Westchester is too far, don’t fret: Our New York pumpkin list has options much closer than that. Click here for the rundown of the best pumpkin patches from Queens to Dutchess County.
North Carolina: Vollmer Farm, Bunn A fifth-generation working family farm, Vollmer Farm is totally worth a visit. Pick out your pumpkins, meet farm animals and make your way through their corn maze. On Saturday nights, you can settle in to watch a movie projected on the side of the barn.
North Dakota: Papa’s Pumpkin Patch, Bismarck Your whole crew will love paying a visit to Papa’s Pumpkin Patch. Explore larger-than-life mazes made out of straw bales, go on a scenic walk on a nature trail, zoom down mini zip lines and (of course) find the perfect pumpkin.
Ohio: Shaw Farms Produce & Pumpkins, Milford Enjoy a festive day at Shaw Farms Produce & Pumpkins. After you’ve picked out a pumpkin, you can snap photos with their plump pumpkin people, put your navigation skills to the test in the corn maze and go on a horse-drawn hayride.
Oklahoma: Pumpkin Town Farms, Tulsa You’ll find pumpkins of all shapes, sizes and colors to pick from at Pumpkin Town Farms. Be sure to also check out their corn maze, petting zoo and kid-friendly activities and games.
Oregon: Bauman’s Farm and Garden, Gervais Rain or shine, most of Bauman’s Farm and Garden is undercover, which makes it the ideal Portland patch. Your active tot will have plenty to do besides finding his fave jack-o-lantern. There’s zip-lining, tire pyramids, jumping pillows and more. Want to read more about Portland’s other equally amazing patches? (Some have exotic animals like a baby tiger or pygmy porcupine!) Then check out these nine patches that you’d be out of your gourd to miss.
12989 Howell Prairie Rd. NE Gervais, OR Online: baumanfarms.com
Pennsylvania: Maize Quest Fun Park, New Park Hop aboard the Pumpkin Express wagon to find the perfect pumpkin at this family-friendly spot. Be sure to stick around to get lost in the corn maze, zoom down a big slide and mine for gems.
Rhode Island: Salisbury Farm, Johnston Hop on a hayride to the pumpkin patch at Salisbury Farm, where you’ll find a great selection of future jack-o-lanterns. You can also explore their giant corn maze, stock up on fresh fruits and veggies and get a tour of the farm.
South Carolina: Bush-N-Vine Farm, York Your whole crew will have a blast at Bush-N-Vine Farm. Pick your own pumpkins, jump around in a bounce house, listen to live music and play games like cornhole.
South Dakota: Spearfish Corn Maze & Pumpkin Patch, Spearfish At this family-friendly spot, you can make your way through the big corn maze, then pick out your perfect pumpkin. There are also plenty of kid-approved activities like a hay slide, a tire climb and a petting zoo.
Tennessee: Lucky Ladd Farms, Eagleville Lucky Ladd Farms is well worth a visit, whether you’re keen on picking pumpkins, exploring a corn maze or chowing down on caramel apples. There’s also a petting zoo with cows, goats, sheep, llamas, alpacas and chickens.
Texas: Hall’s Pumpkin Farm, Grapevine You’re sure to have an amazing time at Hall’s Pumpkin Farm—they’ve got pumpkins and gourds of all shapes and sizes, a fun corn maze to get lost in, plus hayrides pulled by genuine farm tractors.
Utah: Jaker’s Jack-O-Lanterns, Springville At Jaker’s Jack-O-Lanterns, you can hop aboard a hayride, meet animals in a petting zoo, make your way through the corn maze, play in their big corn pit and zoom down huge slides. Oh, and there are plenty of pumpkins, too!
Vermont: Whitcomb’s Land of Pumpkins and Corn Maze, Williston You and your little ghouls will have a blast at Whitcomb’s Land of Pumpkins. Stock up on different types of pumpkins, gourds and squash, and don’t forget to tackle their impressive four-acre corn maze.
Virginia: Hunt Club Farm, Virginia Beach Kick off your Halloween festivities with a visit to Hunt Club Farm, home to Virginia Beach’s biggest pumpkin patch. They’ve also got hayrides, a petting farm and carnival rides.
2388 London Bridge Rd. Virginia Beach, VA Online: huntclubfarm.com
Washington: Craven Farm, Snohomish With a 20-acre pumpkin patch (and more than 30 varieties of pumpkins), a 15-acre Alice-in-Pumpkin Land-themed corn maze, hayrides, storytelling, a pumpkin slinger, petting zoo and donut and espresso bar, this farm covers all the bases. Little ones will especially love the non-scary “I Spy Barn,” the hayride to Minionville and all the fun harvest decorations around the farm. Click here to see our other must-visit pumpkin patches in the Seattle area.
13817 Shorts School Road Snohomish, WA Online: cravenfarm.com
West Virginia: Old McDonald’s Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze, Inwood This family-owned farm is a must-visit during the fall. In addition to picking out pumpkins, you can wander through a corn maze, see farm animals, zoom down mega slides and relax in the picnic area.
Wisconsin: Treinen Farm, Lodi Learn all about the farm as you take a hayride to Treinen Farm’s pumpkin patch, then pick your favorite from over 15 varieties. Don’t forget to visit the corn maze, too—at 15 acres, it’s filled with more than six miles of twists and turns.
Wyoming: Ellis Harvest Home, Lingle At Ellis Harvest Home, you’ll have the chance to pick your own pumpkins, play in a corn box (it’s like a sandbox with corn instead of sand), shoot a tomato launcher and explore the corn maze. Refuel with a delish plate of apple nachos or a cup of hot cocoa.
Comic book fans, rejoice! While the NYC storefront comic book scene has lost some key outposts over the last few years, a new spot just set up shop in Brooklyn. Mama Says Comics Rock, a venture from two home grown comic book devotees opened in March, and it’s ready to serve the comic book needs of fans of the form both beginner and hard core.
Mama Says What? Why the name? Co-owners Davey Kourtesis and Cade Schreger, both Brownstone Brooklyn natives (Kourtesis grew up in Cobble Hill, Schreger in Brooklyn Heights) see the name as a fun shout out to L.L. Cool J. Both men are longtime comic book readers and hobbyists, and were serious enough about the the idea of opening a comic book store that they’d been keeping an eye out for appropriate retail spaces in the area of their old stomping grounds. A Carroll Gardens storefront opened up and Mama Says Comics Rock found its home.
Mama Has What You’ll find brick walls painted a clean white, nice dark wood floors and a selection of comic books, graphic novels and merch displayed cleanly (i.e. it’s not your father’s — or your — comic book store, with volumes piled high to the ceiling and every inch of space stuffed to the max). In-demand comics are displayed in baskets mounted on the wall to the left; high-profile books and related products can be found on tables in the center of the store; a nice wooden bench provides a spot to peruse the merchandise.
Kourtesis and Schreger promise a little bit of everything when it comes to inventory. Customers will find the top 50 new and ongoing comics series in the store, as well as independent and local comics and publications. Of course, subscriptions/pull lists are available for readers who need to know the latest issue of their favorite series is reserved and waiting for them.
For the Kids While not every comic book series is appropriate for the tiniest of readers, many are and have plenty of junior fans. Mama Says Comic Rock stocks many titles popular with younger readers, including Amulet, Bone, Lumberjanes and The Simpsons, as well as older titles that still entertain, such as Calvin & Hobbes and Tin Tin.
More Than Just Comics In addition to selling comics of all kinds, the shop also plans to host events such as signings and readings, art openings (an artist friend’s colorful work adorns the back wall now), and even movie screenings. (Anticipate a Marvel film fest leading up to the release of Captain America: Civil War.) There’s also been some interest in drawing classes, so those may be offered soon. Keep an eye on the store’s events page and Facebook feed for the latest updates. (Psst! May 7 is National Free Comic Book Day, and the store is participating!)
Mama Says Comic Rock
306 Court St.
Carroll Gardens
718-797-3464
Online: mamasayscomics.com
Does your family love comic books? What series is a must-read in your household? Tell us in the comments!
What delights them at four causes nightmares for the two year old, and many of the things a toddler enjoys best bore your 8 year old to tears. We’ve sorted the best of the best activities to determine what you can’t miss for each age and stage, so everyone had a spooky-but-not-scary, memorable, monstrous and Happy Halloween!
Best for Baby
While baby isn’t all that aware of the Halloween hullabaloo, they sure enjoy animals, colors and cute costumes. And you can’t resist the baby album snaps that commemorate your wee ones first Halloween.
Boo! at the Zoo
Babies love looking at the animals, and bringing your adorable costumed little monkey for a photo op with the real monkeys is a memory you’ll treasure always. There are activities for kids of all ages, and you can always just watch animals munching on their Halloween treats. Daily through Oct. 31. Griffith Park. $15-$20. All ages. Event details.
Mickey’s Halloween
It’s not like your 3 month old is into the Disney craze. So why bring baby? Because they’re free! Kids under 3 don’t require a ticket, and Mickey’s Halloween Party is less expensive for adults, so you all get to dress up, have a blast and save some cash. Then when they’re older and beg to go, you can show them pictures and prove they’ve already been. Select dates in October. Anaheim. $69-84; kids under 3 are free. All ages. Event details.
Descanso Autumn Festival
Escape the hullabaloo of Halloween at a quiet nature filled Autumn festival with your wee one; there’s a costume parade, pumpkin carving demonstration, great fall treats from Patina and picture-perfect autumnal scenery to serve as backdrops to Halloween portraits. Plus, kids under 5 are free. Oct. 17 & 18 from 9 a.m.-5 p.m. La Cañada. Free-$9. All ages. Event details.
Riley’s Apple Farm
Nope, they can’t pick apples or eat ‘em either, but we recommend starting off baby’s first fall with a trip to Oak Glen to go apple picking because it’s a wonderful family tradition to put in place. Plus, Riley’s Farm is a spectacular setting for (you guessed it) pictures! Open Monday-Saturday all fall. Oak Glen. $1 to enter the orchard, then pay for what you pick. All ages. Event details.
Montana Halloween Hop
Montana Avenue in Santa Monica hosts a Halloween Trick-or-Treat in the trendy stores (including Giggle, for all your baby needs). It’s an easy, safe, early and non-scary first Trick-or-Treat experience for babies. And after popping into Giggle, you can grab a relaxing dinner along the street as your baby naps. Oct. 31 from 3 -6 p.m. Santa Monica. Free. All ages. Event details.
photo: A Faery Hunt
Tops for Toddlers
Your toddling tot loves hands-on outings, and these interactive scare-free adventures are just right.
Pumpkin Races at Manhattan Beach Pier
Your little one loves things that go, and pumpkins on wheels are a spectacular sight. Cheer on the kookiest pumpkin! Oct. 25 from noon-5 p.m. Manhattan Beach. Free. All ages. Event details.
Underwood Farms Pumpkin Festival
While practically every preschool makes the pilgrimage to Underwood’s pumpkin patch, it’s fun for you to be the one to introduce your pre-preschooler to the madness that is the Underwood Farm yearly October festival. With animals, pumpkins and loads of entertainment (not to mention plenty of photo ops on the hay pyramid or on the tractors), this is a can’t miss for the youngest celebrants. Saturdays & Sundays in October (weekdays too, but the entertainment is on the weekends) from 10:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Moorpark. $15. All ages. Event details.
Malibu Bluffs Halloween Party
With carnival games, bounce houses, a costume parade, prizes and a safe and gorgeous Trick-or-Treat Trail that wanders the bluffs above the ocean, this Halloween party is our favorite spot for youngsters. And if you need more, there’s the Pudding Truck, a garbage truck and playgrounds for those that need a break from festivities. Oct. 30 from 3 -5:30 p.m. Malibu. Free admission. Ages 1-10. Event details.
Halloween Faery Party
Following the morning performance of the beloved Faery Hunt show is the Faery Halloween party with a magician, storytelling, dancing, games, fairy unicorn readings, fairy face painting, one-on-one time with the fairies, food and fun. It’s a great party for little fairy worshipers. Oct. 24 at 10:30 a.m. Griffith Park. $15-$25. Ages 2-8. Event details.
Boo at the Teaching Zoo
Kids that can’t resist touching everything will want to get up-close and personal with all the animals who are out to celebrate and show off at the Teaching Zoo. It’s also less crowded than the LA Zoo’s Boo. Oct. 31 & Nov. 1 from 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Moorpark. $6-$8. All ages. Event details.
photo: Irvine Park Railroad
Perfect for Preschoolers
Ahhh, they’ve discovered the joys of trick-or-treating! They’re also ready for a slightly spooky Halloween story (that won’t keep them up at night) and a pumpkin patch that includes a dark but not haunted train ride…
Bob Baker’s Halloween Spooktacular
Sitting right next to these amazing marionettes brings Halloween to life and allows your kid to start life off as an Angeleno native should: watching a piece of history at the country’s oldest ongoing puppet theater. (Though kids as young as 2 are welcome, we find that the puppets can be a little scary for those under 4 or 5.) Friday-Sunday in October at various times. Echo Park. $15. Ages 2 & up. Event details.
Creatures at the Arboretum
Wander in your costume with the peacocks at this celebration in the beautiful Arboretum (one of our favorite spots for fall leaf viewing, too) where the celebration for kids includes pumpkin decorating, creepy science projects and other autumn crafts. Oct.31 from 9 a.m.-noon. Arcadia. $5 plus admission for kids. All ages. Event details.
Theatricum Boo!-tanicum
There are two Halloween shows at the gorgeous Theatricum Botanicum. The annual Boo-Tanicum is great for the whole family with games, inprov silliness and lots of haunted fun in the woods and takes place on Oct. 30 at 4 p.m. Tickets are $10-15, and kids under 5 are free. But for those who are still easily scared in the dark, on Oct. 25 at 11 a.m., there is a show filled with non-spooky Halloween tales. It’s perfect for kids 3-6, and tickets are $9.
Scarariums Making at Purple Twig
Arty tots (and their big siblings) will love getting crafty at Purple Twig to make some amazing eerie worlds in a jar. And you’ll love these original Halloween decorations to keep for years and years at home. Oct. 24 from 3 -4 p.m. Eagle Rock. $35. Ages 4-10. Event details.
Irvine Pumpkin Train
This small train is perfect for Thomas lovers, as it chugs around Irvine Park, making a quick visit through a totally non-scary “haunted” tunnel at the end of the journey. Then you can take part in a variety of activities from cookie decorating to panning for gold and then go home with a pumpkin to carve and some tasty pumpkin bread for breakfast. Daily through Oct. 31 from 10 a.m -5 p.m. Irvine. Free admission, train is $5. All ages. Event details.
Now you can add a twist with science spooks, nighttime adventures and even a little, tiny, controlled “eek.”
Eek! at the Greek
This is a nice mix of fun, spooky and culture! Start the night with a Trick-or-Treat Village, then the concert has some atmospheric classical music and ends with a reading of Edgar Allen Poe’s, “The Tell-Tale Heart.” Make this a Halloween tradition, and each year your kids can stay a little later (that first year you may want to skip the Poe!). Sat., Oct 24 at 4:30 p.m. Griffith Park. $8-$55. Ages 5 & up. Event details.
Rise of the Jack O’ Lanterns
Though there’s nothing overtly scary at the Rise of the Jack O’ Lanterns exhibit, we’ve found that since viewing the lit gourds requires absolute darkness, it can be a little scary for the small set. Plus, the intricacies in the carving and building of the amazing pumpkins is best appreciated by bigger kids. But if you’ve also got younger kids, the paths are fine for strollers. Thursday-Sunday through Nov. 1 at Descsanso Gardens and Friday-Sunday through Nov.1 at Santa Anita Park. $14-$28. All ages.
Spooky Science
Science gets creepy and crawly at the Discovery Cube LA, where kids can explore bugs of all colors and sizes in over-sized sets and hands-on learning stations. Daily through Nov. 2. Los Angeles. $10. Ages 3 & up. Event details.
A FarmTastic Jurassic Maze
Forneris Farms has next level harvest fun for bigger kids who can get “lost” in the Corn Maze that has a Tyranno-twist (it takes about an hour to complete, but isn’t haunted). Plus they can visit the pumpkin patch to pick out a home-grown pumpkin that was freshly picked. Daily through Nov.1 from 2-5 p.m on weekdays and 9 a.m.-5 p.m. on weekends. $10-$15. All ages. Event details.
See Ichabod in the Huntington Gardens
Get into the spirit of Halloween with a screening of Walt Disney’s animated classic, The Legend of Sleepy Hollow; pre-show activities and entertainment add to the family fun in this spectacular garden setting. Oct. 17 at 7 p.m. San Marino. $20. All ages. Event details.
Ride on the Ghost Train
LA Live Steamers turns their train into a ghostly chug on weekends in October. The 20-minute ride features a series of spooky settings and creepy displays. But you know your kids best—if they scare easily, this may not be for them. We know 3 year-olds who love it and 8 year-olds who are terrified, so it’s more kid-dependent than age-dependent. Select dates in October from 7-10 p.m. Griffith Park. $15. Riders must be at least 34 inches tall. Event details.
photo: Front Porch Cinema
A ‘Wrap Up’ of Events that Delight ‘Mummy’ (And Daddy, Too…)
In between your costume making, treat baking and party planning duties, take time to remember that you love this holiday just as much as the kids do. These events will “leaf” you feeling festive and are also perfectly appropriate (and enjoyable) for the while family.
Scarecrows in Wine Country
You can’t wait to head up to Santa Ynez for a fabulous day of fall wine tasting. Er, we mean to bring the kids to check out all the amazing scarecrows. The Valley will boast more than 200 scarecrows this year, most of which are available for public viewing and voting, so you can find and pick your favorites in the ‘field.’ Oct. 9-Nov.9. Santa Ynez Valley. Free. All ages. Event details.
The Do-Good Halloween Bus
Halloween can be about giving as well as taking (candy). The Do Good Bus promises brings people together to help the community in a fun and social environment. It’s a great way to kick off your holiday weekend. Oct. 31 from 9:15 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Universal City. $20-$45. All ages. Event details.
Tim Burton’s Nightmare Live with Danny Elfman
Danny Elfman takes the stage at the Hollywood Bowl to perform his role of Jack Skellington, singing live to the film Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas. The Bowl will transform into Halloween Town with special pre-show activities. It’s a Halloween event kids and parents alike will adore. Oct. 31 at 8:15 p.m. & Nov. 1 at 6:30 p.m. Hollywood. $41 & up. All ages. Event details.
Who You Gonna Call?
See a thematically fitting movie (Ghostbusters, in case you weren’t sure) that you love and your kids will, too! Bring chairs and blankets and friends, so you can take turns watching the kids and ducking into the Cinema Lounge for an adult beverage. Oct. 30 at 7:30 p.m. Santa Monica. Free. Rated PG. Event details.
Halloween Rock and Roll Half-Marathon
Get your tutus and super hero outfits ready to hit the street for the world’s largest Halloween half marathon. Run off the Peanut Butter Cups you’re totally going to sneak out of the trick or treat bags, in advance… And if you’re not running, come out and support those that are and laugh at all the silly costumed runners. There’s also a 5 K for parents or big kids ready to hit the streets, but not ready for a full half marathon. Oct. 25 from 7:15 a.m.-noon. Downtown LA. Free to watch, Registration fee to run. All ages. Event details.
What Halloween adventures did you like best for your kids at each age? We’d love to hear about your family haunted traditions in the comment sections below!
Earth Day is coming up, and what better way to celebrate being green than developing a green thumb? Bring Farm-to-Table cuisine a whole lot closer to home by starting a family garden. Whether you’re looking to teach your kids to “live off the land” or just want a few fresh strawberries for tonight’s shortcake, these 5 organizations will help your little gardener get started making their very own spring garden.
Little Saplings
Founder Ruth Steinberg’s mission is to help kids develop a love of gardening. With a very personal and hands-on approach, Little Saplings works with parents and kids to dream up ideas for a family garden, but lets the kiddos spearhead the process with Steinberg teaching and overseeing the whole way. Leaving magical hidden areas to inspire tots to revisit the garden and follow-up visits to monitor the plants’ progress, Little Saplings aims to make true garden lovers out of your kids. (And provides plenty of help if you’re more of a city kid yourself!)
Little Saplings
Contact: Ruth Steinberg
Phone: 310-383-4304
Online: littlesaplings.org
Home Grown Edible Landscapes
Home Grown Edible Landscapes aims to make gardening a family affair by running an urban farm in Venice that offers classes specifically designed for parents and kids to learn about gardening together. From composting with worms to growing vegetables used to make homemade dyes, your mini-horticulturalist will learn the ins and outs of gardening. If you already have a garden at home, you can purchase a series of private lessons to help up your gardening mojo.
South Coast Botanic Garden
Visiting this urban oasis will help your pint-sized planters learn not only about plants but also the wildlife that inhabits and sustains growing things. From a monthly kids club with garden specific activities to numerous kids programs that pop up each season, kids have ample opportunities to learn about gardening. This spring and summer little ones can attend the newly created Junior Farmer’s Program and really get their hands dirty.
The Learning Garden
Started 12 years ago with the intention of creating a medicinal and ayurvedic garden, The Learning Garden (located at Venice High School) has long since incorporated edible plants with the idea that healthy, organic food is medicine. Here your kiddos will find a true teaching garden filled with plants of all types and maintained by locals, students and expert volunteers willing to answer any questions your curious tots may have.
City Plants
In an effort to “green” LA and create a veritable “urban forest”, City Plants offers residents of Los Angeles shade trees and fruit trees free of charge. You can request up to 7 shade trees through their website or grab the kids and attend one of their tree adoption events where you can pick up a free fruit tree to plant with your little ones. They’ll fill you in on tips for care and upkeep, too.
The calendar may still say spring, but the balmy weather has us ready for backyard BBQ’s, sunny picnics and scrumptious scoops of cold ice cream. Luckily for Angelenos, there’s no shortage of awesome ice cream in town. Jumping to the top of the heap is a fabulous new Midwest import: Jeni’s Ice Creams in Los Feliz. Only LA has a West Coast shop with LA-only (and only in LA would would they fly!) flavors.
photo credit: Meghan Rose
Gourmet, chef-orchestrated ice creams and sorbets are having a moment in LA (we love you Salt & Straw, and your Thanksgiving Turkey ice cream), but don’t expect completely off-the-wall savory flavors here. Instead, you’ll find delicious takes on appealing sweet flavors. Sure, there are some unconventional ingredients, but trust us: everything is completely delicious, and kiddos will be eager to experiment with the unique (but not too weird for little taste buds) ice cream and frozen yogurt options.
photo credit: Meghan Rose
The Shop
You walk in, and the scent of freshly made waffles wafts over you. Instant heaven. It’s clean, bright and cheerful, with fresh flowers adorning the tables and down-to-earth, friendly staff. Female employees wear orange, white and black head kerchiefs (also available for sale in store), which invokes a by-gone era of simplicity and honest, home-grown goodness. Which is exactly what you’ll get at Jeni’s. Feel free to taste whatever strikes your fancy (they’ll encourage you to keep testing and tasting, even when you start to feel guilty for the line behind you—don’t worry, they’ll get their tasting turn), and get ready to flip for the adorable miniature silver spoons for taste testing. Kids love getting to plop their silver spoon into a giant jar (no waste, the spoons are reusable) before deciding on what flavor to get.
photo credit: Meghan Rose
What’s the Scoop?
An Ohio-based brand, Jeni’s brings simplicity and unaltered goodness to ice cream fans. LA peeps will love the purity of it—nothing fake here. Jeni’s builds their ice creams from the ground up, with milk from grass-grazed cows and whole ingredients that they blend, bake, peel, chop, skin, pulverize and blowtorch themselves. No flavoring, chemical dyes, or off-the shelf ice cream mixes. The proof is in the pudding, errr, ice cream, that is.
photo credit: Meghan Rose
Spectacular flavors like Toasted Brioche with Butter & Black Currant Jam, Brambleberry Crisp, and Sweet Cream with Molasses & Peanuts are scoopable choices. Kids will love the seven-layer bar flavor, which has (among other tasty things), sweetened condensed milk and “graham gravel”. Grown-ups might gravitate towards the Intelligentsia Black Cat Espresso, which pairs well with a scoop of Whiskey & Pecan. And you’ve got to try the Goat Cheese Cherry. Heaven! But if you’re feeling like something lighter, try the Wheatgrass, Pear and Vinho Verde sorbet, which has been specially formulated for LA. It’s fresh, fruity and you can pretend you’re getting your greens!
Classics to Put Classics to Shame
Even kids who prefer to stick to the classics are in heaven at Jeni’s. The Ndali Estate vanilla bean flavor is so deliciously full-flavored, your kids might start to turn their noses up to anything not made with Fair-Trade certified African vanilla beans, which are reserved exclusively for Jeni’s and shipped directly from Uganda. Of course there’s chocolate too, in the form of the Milkiest Chocolate in the World flavor, with a superior creaminess thanks to grass-grazed Ohio milk and Ohio wildflower honey. But you may find your kids straying to the dark side, since the Dark Chocolate flavor is packed with Fair-Trade certified cocoa and tastes like the inside of a super-rich chocolate truffle.
Fro-Yo That’s In Another League
If living in LA has made you a frozen yogurt addict, these flavors put your local self-serve to shame. Jeni’s has amazing options made with grass-grazed milk, biodynamic yogurt, and pulverized fruit. Try the Lime Cardamom (made with fresh lime juice, of course), or the fruity and refreshing Red Raspberry.
photo credit: Elena Wurlitzer
Top of the Toppings
Even Jeni’s toppings are top-notch. No neon gummi worms here, only the good stuff, like extra-bitter hot fudge, butterscotch and salty caramel sauces. Kids will go bananas for the “gravels”, which come in donut, salty graham, and chocolate blackout varieties. And just like their ice creams, all toppings are made with just a handful of simple, easy-to-pronounce, instantly identifiable ingredients.
More than Just Ice Cream
There’s even more than ice cream here. Try a “conversation cookie” to really get your family chatting. Each cookie is crafted from a home-made waffle, which is then carefully folded around a bespoke conversation starting question inside. Like a fortune cookie designed to get you gabbing. And the ice cream sandwiches are superb and big enough to share.
Oh, and there are pre-packed pints in the freezer, if you’re hooked and want to bring the yummy home!
photo credit: Elena Wurlitzer
Sticker Shock
The one thing here that can cause a moment’s pause is sticker shock. In a town full of full price premium treats, you still may blink a few times when you hand over your credit card. Scoops come in double or triple. No kid sizes. No kid prices. Because the scoops are half-sized, it’s not a sugar overload, but $5.50 for 2 small scoops or $6.50 for 3, plus extras for cones, toppings etc, and every time we’ve visited it’s been about a $30 bill for a family of 4. We’re not complaining, and in fact, we think the taste and quality is totally worth the price, but it’s good to know that before the bill comes.
photo credit: Jeni’s Facebook Page
Looking for other fabulous ice cream that’s made the move to LA? These are our favorite shops from last summer. We can’t wait to see what pops up this summer!
Jeni’s is open from noon-10 p.m. from Sunday through Thursday and is open until 11 p.m. on Fridays & Saturdays.
