Even though the holidays are coming, there are still a ton of free things to do in San Diego with kids this month
The holidays are coming and while that means more money for special occasions, gifts and hot chocolate, that doesn’t mean you can’t still have fun in San Diego for free. Fleet Week is here and along with it, a bevy of fun, free events the whole family will love. Don’t miss out some (free) special story times at Lido Village Books and Athenaeum Music and Arts Library and one of our favorite times of the year? A chance to explore our local National Parks for free.
Free Things to Do in San Diego That Are Always Free
Become a Skater Babe: Follow in San Diegan Tony Hawk's footsteps and take your board to roll with it, flip, jump and carve at one of San Diego's many thrilling skateparks.
Join a Park Ranger Program at OneofSanDiego’sManyParkTerrains: You can head down to the coast at Cabrillo for Park Ranger walks at the lighthouse, or drive up the coast to Carlsbad’s wildlife viewing with the junior rangers, or move inland for a wildlife tracking hike or nature story time at Mission Trails or go south for a guided bird walk at the Tijuana River Estuary. Click here for the full list of park ranger programs nearby.
Visit Seaport Village: Window shop, wander along the bay, watch the ships go by, listen to live music in the food court, and watch the kites fly—all in Seaport Village.
Hit the Beach: Of course, we can never really get sick of the beach. From stretches of shimmery sand at Coronado's Silver Strand to boogie boarding near the cliffs of Torrey Pines and making waves in Del Mar, nothing is more iconic than a beach day here in San Diego. Want to explore a new beach this summer? Check out our guides to the best local beaches for the kids and the best beaches to take your dog in San Diego.
Visit the Best Playgrounds in San Diego: Discover where kids can slide through a giant bunch of grapes or commandeer a pirate ship on our list of the best San Diego playgrounds.
Explore Chicano Park in Barrio Logan: Vivid, lively murals depict aspects of San Diego’s Mexican-American heritage including mythology and immigration. Kids especially love the Children’s Mural, which represents drawings and paintings from kids that attended two local elementary schools. Chicano Park is a great place to go with kids and give them an art lesson. Visit the park's interactive website to explore the murals' history and artists before your visit.
Get Instagram-famous: Capture a super photo-op at one of these Instagrammable murals.
The Sanford Children's Library at the Central Library: The library's Dr. Seuss murals and thousands of books make it a fun, inviting space for kids. Park in the underground lot and get validation to park for free for the first two hours.
Queen Califia’s Magical Circle: The colorful, whimsical sculpture garden that is Queen Califia's Magical Circle will delight kids. Make a day of it and check out this additional interactive public art for the whole family.
Check Out Not One, but Two Historic San Diego Ranch Houses: The Los Peñasquitos Ranch House is the second oldest standing residence and was built in 1823 by the recipients of the first Mexican land grant in San Diego County. Take a hike around the area, then check out the goats, chickens, veggies, and have some fun in the large open spaces for playtime.
Then head to “Carlsbad’s Sleeping Beauty” to see the Leo Carillo Ranch House and prance with the peacocks and play on authentic ranch and farming equipment. Don’t forget to pack a picnic!
Explore Old Town to see the birthplace of California: Settled in 1769, many of the buildings in Old Town were built in the early 1800s, which is pretty amazing in itself. See the mission, run around on the green or walk through the village, taking in the sights of old San Diego by visiting Old Town.
Uncover San Diego's Hidden Gems: A house perched off the edge of a building, secret messages in the sand and more unbelievable sights that will wow and delight your brood—these free hidden gems in San Diego are fun to discover whether you're a tourist or a bonafide local.
September 26 marks National Family Day and we can’t think of anything we’d rather celebrate than our favorite people. We know life gets busy, but that doesn’t mean we can’t gather everyone around the table for some Game Night action! These family-friendly games are the perfect way to bring the fam together, and although they’re a great way to celebrate National Family Day, your crew will want to break these out over and over again!
Hackin' Packin' Alpaca is as fun to play as it is to say! Stack cargo on the alpaca's back, but be careful. If you stack too slowly, he'll spit water at you!
Pick a card, read it out loud, and quickly write down two answers you think others will imagine. The fun comes when you find out if you're right or way off! Creative Child Magazine's Game of the Year 2016, Double Ditto is perfect for family players 8 years+.
Two games in one! Family Charades gives your family the option of playing Classic Charades - one person acting while the rest of the group guesses, or Switch Charades - players take turns guessing while the rest of the group acts! This version also includes image cards for non-reader players, so everyone gets in on the fun!
This one is sure to get them laughing! Pull a card prompt, slide on the special glasses (equipped with the Pencil Nose, of course), and draw what the card prompts for everyone to guess - using only your nose!
Find the commonalities, make the connection, and win! This fast-paced matching game involves connecting two "unrelated" things: "Snails eat leaves", "Ladybugs and firetrucks are both red", and more! Encourage lateral thinking and have a blast doing it on your way to winning.
Making sense out of gibberish is a parent's specialty, and now the whole family can try! A rotating judge starts the timer and holds up a card with the Incohearent phrase for players to try to sound their way through.
Families with little ones will love this game's 40 cards that prompt players to move together - from hugs to high fives, wiggles and wobbles! Monkeys ages 2+ will love honing their gross motor skills and parents will love finding a new way to engage with their kiddos!
Players ages 3+ will be super excited to get to play a game with their favorite buddy Bluey! Work your way through the game with cupcake cards, picnics, and giggles.
Nothing wrong with a little friendly family competition! Beat the Parents is the showdown game with more than just bragging rights at stake; each team picks a wager before the game can even starts! Trash duty, movie night picks, anything is up for grabs!
The end of the world + cute little characters = Doomlings. This easy-to-learn card game for ages 10+ requires players to help their species adapt and compete for darling world domination before it's all over. Trust us; the apocalypse doesn't get more adorable than this.
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No matter how old your kids are, threatening or upsetting news can affect them emotionally. Many can feel worried, frightened, angry, or even guilty. And these anxious feelings can last long after the news event is over. So what can you do as a parent to help your kids deal with all this information? Here are a few tips for talking to kids about tragedy in the news.
Addressing News and Current Events: Tips for All Kids
Consider your own reactions. Your kids will look to the way you handle the news to determine their own approach. If you stay calm and rational, they will, too.
Take action. Depending on the issue and kids’ ages, families can find ways to help those affected by the news. Kids can write postcards to politicians expressing their opinions; families can attend meetings or protests; kids can help assemble care packages or donate a portion of their allowance to a rescue/humanitarian effort. Check out websites that help kids do good.
Tips for Kids under 7
Keep the news away. Turn off the TV and radio news at the top of the hour and half hour. Read the newspaper out of range of young eyes that can be frightened by the pictures (kids may respond strongly to pictures of other kids in jeopardy). Preschool kids don’t need to see or hear about something that will only scare them silly, especially because they can easily confuse facts with fantasies or fears.
Stress that your family is safe. At this age, kids are most concerned with your safety and separation from you. Try not to minimize or discount their concerns and fears, but reassure them by explaining all the protective measures that exist to keep them safe. If the news event happened far away, you can use the distance to reassure kids. For kids who live in areas where crime and violence is a very real threat, any news account of violence may trigger extra fear. If that happens, share a few age-appropriate tips for staying and feeling safe (being with an adult, keeping away from any police activity).
Be together. Though it’s important to listen and not belittle their fears, distraction and physical comfort can go a long way. Snuggling up and watching something cheery or doing something fun together may be more effective than logical explanations about probabilities.
Tips for Kids 8–12
Carefully consider your child’s maturity and temperament. Many kids can handle a discussion of threatening events, but if your kids tend toward the sensitive side, be sure to keep them away from the TV news; repetitive images and stories can make dangers appear greater, more prevalent, and closer to home.
Be available for questions and conversation. At this age, many kids will see the morality of events in stark black-and-white terms and are in the process of developing their moral beliefs. You may have to explain the basics of prejudice, bias, and civil and religious strife. But be careful about making generalizations, since kids will take what you say to the bank. This is a good time to ask them what they know, since they’ll probably have gotten their information from friends, and you may have to correct facts.
Talk about — and filter — news coverage. You might explain that even news programs compete for viewers, which sometimes affects content decisions. If you let your kids use the Internet, go online with them. Some of the pictures posted are simply grisly. Monitor where your kids are going, and set your URLs to open to non-news-based portals.
Tips for Teens
Check in. Since, in many instances, teens will have absorbed the news independently of you, talking with them can offer great insights into their developing politics and their senses of justice and morality. It will also help you get a sense of what they already know or have learned about the situation from their own social networks. It will also give you the opportunity to throw your own insights into the mix (just don’t dismiss theirs, since that will shut down the conversation immediately).
Let teens express themselves. Many teens will feel passionately about events and may even personalize them if someone they know has been directly affected. They’ll also probably be aware that their own lives could be affected by violence. Try to address their concerns without dismissing or minimizing them. If you disagree with media portrayals, explain why so your teens can separate the mediums through which they absorb news from the messages conveyed.
Common Sense Media is an independent nonprofit organization offering unbiased ratings and trusted advice to help families make smart media and technology choices. Check out our ratings and recommendations at www.commonsense.org.
Volunteering is not only a great way to spend family time, but it can help foster your child’s social skills, grow their sense of empathy and expose them to new interests. From creating custom cards for the troops to cleaning dirt and debris from the National Mall, we’ve rounded up volunteer opportunities suitable for a range of ages—from tots to teens. If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves, scroll down for the best family-friendly volunteer opportunities in the DMV.
Arlington County: Be Earth Friendly Every Day Arlington County's website boasts a long list of recommended family activities and events, like how to create your own rain garden or rain barrel, recycling tips, leads on local freecycling groups, and scheduled invasive plant removal projects at area parks. Arlington is also home to a ton of nature centers and gardens, where you can register for a nature event or stock up on foliage at a spring native plant sale.
The Alice Ferguson Foundation The Alice Ferguson Foundation has a long legacy of grassroots, community action. Our goal is to create meaningful experiences that connect our volunteers and visitors to the natural world. Family friendly opportunities include everything from Children's Garden maintenance and trail cleanups to Potomac River trash pickup and beautifying.
Anacostia River With multiple points throughout the district, Montgomery County, and Prince George’s County, there is likely an Anacostia clean-up site near you. The Anacostia Watershed Societywelcomes all, families and kids included to volunteer. They provide the tools and supplies, you provide the manpower to make the river sparkle.
National Mall and Memorial Parks Plan a unique family gathering or organize your local troop for a day on the Mall. Groups of 15 can spend an afternoon pruning trees, painting benches and keeping this National Park looking visitor-ready.
Casey Trees Help add green to the urban landscape with this non profit organization dedicated to increasing the leafy canopy in DC. Check the website for on-going opportunities to help with community plantings. Or register your child's school for a hands-on academic experience.
Children’s National Medical Center Most of the hands-on volunteering is for people ages 18 & up, with the exception of a 15 & up Ambassador Program, but the hospital needs more than bedside manners. Keep Dr. Bear’s Closet well stocked with superhero figures, Legos, books, crayons, stuffed animals, iPads – you get the idea – through donation drives.
When: Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and 3-6 p.m.; Sat.-Sun. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Where: 111 Michigan Ave. NW, Suite 1180 Online:childrensnational.org
DC Diaper Bank Helping babies is the number one mission of the DC Diaper Bank. Diapers, newborn necessities, nursing supplies, hygiene products and more are all collected to empower and change lives of babies living at or below the poverty line. Kiddos can get involved by helping to collect supplies, packaging diapers, and distributing to those in need. Even the littlest of helpers can join in – there’s a playroom for the young and eager to practice their skills while you and junior box up pampers.
Art for Humanity This Arlington-based charity has been helping poor children in Honduras through the Honduras Independence Bilingual School since 2006 and has three main ways to involve kids. One is by collecting vitamins and health supplies such as ibuprofen and cough drops for adults and children. Another is to sponsor a child’s education. The website lists kids in need and how much money per month they need. Sponsors get reports of their progress and a video of the children.
Shelter House This nonprofit serves two shelters for families and one for victims of domestic violence in Fairfax County, VA. Arrange a drive or just gather items to donate as a family. Needs are greatest for toiletries, pillows, pots and pans, gift cards, diapers and wipes, baby bottles, cutlery, and sheet sets.
Cards for Hospitalized Kids OK, so this isn’t locally based, but seriously, it’s so easy, we couldn’t exclude it. Get out the art supplies and make uplifting cards – generally themed or holiday-specific – to be delivered to children in hospitals. Cards go out monthly. Send your creation(s) to 7290 W. Devon Ave., Chicago, IL 60631.
Color A Smile With kids, you’re probably coloring pretty often anyway, right? Print a page from the choices on the Color a Smile website, use crayons or markers, and mail the picture to PO Box 1516, Morristown, NJ 07962-1516. Every month the organization distributes the drawings to senior citizens, troops overseas and “anyone in need of a smile.” In the past 25 years, it has sent more than 1 million drawings.
We Are Family Missing Grandma and Grandpa? Volunteer with We Are Family! They reach out to isolated senior citizens to help with groceries, cleaning, transportation, and/or just a friendly visit. Little ones can bring huge smiles to faces who might not get to interact with pint-sized future presidents, doctors, social workers and teachers. Kids who visit with the elderly benefit from the stories, interactivity and getting a dose of Grammie and Pop-Pop —even if it’s just for a little while. Be still our beating hearts.
Hebrew Home of Greater Washington Visit an elderly person (or two or 10) who might not have family nearby. Chat, play games or take them outside for fresh air. If you play an instrument, sing, dance or love theater, contact the recreation team about performing. Kids ages 10 to 17 need parental permission to volunteer here.
Montgomery County Humane Society To volunteer at a shelter, you must be at least 16, but younger people can help in other ways. For instance, host a drive for new or gently used pet supplies, or make a “no sew” pet bed, cat toys and other do-it-your-self toys. Find specific instructions online.
Where:601 South Stone St., Rockville, MD Online: mchumane.org
Lucky Dog Animal Rescue Got a pint-sized animal lover who wants to collect a whole zoo? The Lucky Dog's Youth Program is the perfect way for your personal Jeff Corwin to get involved without having to get another puppy or kitty. Lucky doggers can host fundraising events, make dog toys, bake treats, draw pictures (yes, really!) and even invite Lucky Dog Rescuers to school to learn more about the animals they help (for kids 7 & up). Woof!
Animal Welfare League of Montgomery County Even pets need a hand up sometime – which is exactly where Chomper’s Food Bank comes into play. Little one who are always trying to fill up the grocery cart with all those delicious treats, can now fill up their basket to help Fido instead of driving Mama crazy. Dried and wet food, kitten, puppy or senior food, it’s all needed at Chomper’s so that dogs and cats of Montgomery County can stay in their homes even if their owners are a little down on their luck. Helping animals and people? We call that a win-win.
Lost Dog & Cat Rescue Fans of Lost Dog Café know that their mission is to help animals in need. So, help kiddos put their money where their mouths are, and fundraise for animals who need it most. Middle schoolers, high schoolers and even elementary aged animal lovers can collect coins, bills and checks to donate to homeless dogs and cats. To date, they’ve helped more than 22,000 furry critters – all with a little help from their friends.
Animal Welfare League of Alexandria Help a furry friend without worrying about allergy attacks or friendly nips through the Youth Program’s at-home activities. These include chopping hot dogs, making Kittywands, catnip socks, Pupcicles of broth and meat, tugbraids and hiding houses (instructions for all are here).
Animal Welfare League of Arlington’s Paws and Read Who doesn’t love a good story? Children in kindergarten through fifth grade, accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, can practice reading and give cats some love by reading books to them. Take that, holiday brain drain (that’s a thing, right?).
When: Mon., Wed.-Fri. 1-5:20 p.m. Where: 2650 S. Arlington Mill Dr., Arlington, VA Online: awla.org
Humane Rescue Alliance Kids been nagging you for a pet? Give one a trial run – and a good home – as a foster family. The alliance takes in an average of 30 animals a day, and it needs help providing shelter for them, particularly those that might need specialized care, such as orphaned kittens and puppies.
Wreaths Across America Cemeteries may not be the first things that come to mind when volunteering as a family, but Wreaths Across America aims to place a festive, holiday wreath on the grave of soldiers to “Remember, Honor and Teach.” Families can lay wreaths at Arlington National Cemetery, as well as multiple locations throughout the DMV.
Socks for Vets For those with younger kiddos who want a taste of volunteering, but might not be able to pack food or read to puppies, Socks for Vets is the perfect fit. Each month, the founder, Cavan McIntyre-Brewer decides different ways to honor the nation’s veterans. Your family can get involved by donating socks, making cards, shopping for goat supplies (seriously they have packgoats!), and other myriad ways to show support for the bravest of the brave. Socks for Vets regularly visits the DC area where they hand out cards to Vets at the memorials, volunteer at military hospitals or participate in parades where they showcase their mission (DC is a bit much for the furry critters, though, so don’t expect to see goats roaming around Pennsylvania Ave.) and how they help wounded warriors.
Any Soldier Gather together to create care packages for members of the military who are stationed overseas. Recommended items include playing cards, jerky, Nutella, sunflower seeds, socks and Beanie Babies. The website offers a complete list including brand names or select a service member’s name to see their wish lists.
Holidays for Heroes Send three blank holiday cards, three blank envelopes with postage stamps and a personalized message from your family to a service member for the American Red Cross to provide to injured, ill or hospitalized service members and veterans. Each recipient will be able to send the cards to their loved ones. Mail them to the American Red Cross in the National Capital Region at 8550 Arlington Blvd., Fairfax, VA 22031.
Manna Food Center This charity in Gaithersburg has volunteer opportunities for kids ages 7 & up who want to help feed the hungry in Montgomery County. One activity is Family Box Packing. The center recommends that children be at least 10, but kiddos as young as 7 are welcome. At these events, held five time a month, participants spend about 90 minutes packing about 192 boxes of nonperishable food items. Check the website for additional opportunities, such as food drives.
Meals on Wheels As part of the Moms for Meals program, kids can accompany parents on weekday delivery runs during summer and winter breaks. Meals on Wheels provides food to homebound seniors and people with disabilities. If you can spare the time, chat with the recipient for a few minutes to make their day just that might brighter.
Food for Others Make a family outing to this food distribution center, which serves those in need in Fairfax and the greater NOVA area. Children must be at least 12 and those under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Tasks include packing food boxed, Power Packs and USDA bags, unloading trucks, and sorting and stocking donated food.
ALIVE! Food Distribution Bagging groceries and distributing them is a great way for young and older munchkins to help others. ALIVE! has set weekends were volunteers can setup, unload, bag, distribute and register clients to receive food donated through the ALIVE! food bank. If your volunteer is older (teenager) he or she can help with furniture delivery, special events and maybe even at the ALIVE! house in old town. Whatever your family desires, there’s something to spark passion at every level.
Arlington Food Assistance Center Different kids means different interests – which is perfect for the Arlington Food Assistance Center. Children as young as 5 can help out at Family Bagging Nights (put food in grocery bags), while teenagers can post leaflets and posters promoting food drives. Middle and high schoolers can host Dimes for Dining where they give their neighbors a jar to fill with change and collect them at the end of the month.
The Bowie Interfaith Pantry and Emergency Aid Fund Plunk the kids in the nearest car-shaped shopping cart and help restock the fund’s pantry through its Shop-a-Shelf Program, which reimburses folks for canned goods, fresh produce, personal care items, and other donations. Or go a step further and Adopt-a-Shelf, then keep it full year round.
Capital Area Food Bank This is the largest organization in the metro area working to feed the hungry. It has partnered with 444 community organizations to provide food to those who need it and also delivers food directly, helping 540,000 people – 12 percent of the region’s population – a year eat. Do your part by gathering your family to sort and pack the food for delivery.
Food and Friends Volunteers founded this organization in 1988 and volunteers are still needed. Go through a volunteer orientation and then sign up to deliver meals and groceries to six to 10 families or prep and pack food (ages 14 & up for the latter). Note: Thanksgiving is an especially busy time for the org so sign up soon.
So Others Might Eat This interfaith organization provides food, showers, clothing, medical care and housing for those in need. Volunteers in the dining room must be at least 13 years old and accompanied by an adult, and at least 16 to do it independently. Opportunities outside food service include creating holiday decorations and baking treats to be served with meals.
Spend Yourself Food Pantry This Falls Church-based group seeks volunteers on Saturdays between 8:30 am and 12:15 pm to provide food to clients, pack and shelve food, and interact with clients. Donations of non-perishable food items are always welcome, too.
Martha’s Table This group has worked for 35 years to support children, families and the community at large in the DC area. Become one of the 16,000 volunteer who help with food, clothing and special events every year. Must be at least 12 to help with food and clothing.
Lorton Community Action Center More than 100 youth volunteer here every year in a variety of ways. Students 13 and older may help prepare food bags and assist with donations in the pantry, children of any age may organize a food drive, kids 15 and younger with an adult on hand may help in the Lorton’s Attic thrift store, and kids can raise money to donate to the center in lieu of (or in addition to) holiday or birthday gifts using a personal fundraising webpage.
Where: 9518 Richmond Highway, Lorton, VA Online: lortonaction.org
Helping the Homeless
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Carpenter’s Shelter Serving more than 600 homeless and formerly homeless children and adults each year, this shelter serves people in need in the city of Alexandria. They’re looking for in-kind donations of food, toiletries and miscellaneous items such as air mattresses, dish and bath towels, and SmarTrip cards. The shelter also keeps an Amazon Wish List in case you want to have the kiddos pick items there that can be shipped directly to the shelter.
Lorton Community Action Center More than 100 youth volunteer here every year in a variety of ways. Students 13 and older may help prepare food bags and assist with donations in the pantry, children of any age may organize a food drive, kids 15 and younger with an adult on hand may help in the Lorton’s Attic thrift store, and kids can raise money to donate to the center in lieu of (or in addition to) holiday or birthday gifts using a personal fundraising webpage.
Where: 9518 Richmond Highway, Lorton, VA Online: lortonaction.org
Habitat for Humanity Children as young as 5 can participate here as part of Habitat Youth Programs, which aims “to instill a love of volunteering from an early age.” Contact your local affiliate for details on onsite help, but other ways to get littles involved include making cards for donors, homeowners and volunteers using Habitat’s card creation kit; raising money through Helping Hands for Habitat; and writing letters to local lawmakers to speak out against substandard housing.
ACTIONS in Community Through Service This group, which formed in 1969, helps people and families in need in Prince William County through programs such as housing support and domestic violence services. Children 15 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. ACTS suggests that kids coordinate drives or collections in their schools or places of worship, or that they make kits of essentials for clients.
Where: 3900 ACTS Ln., Dumfries, VA Online: actspwc.org
Bethesda Cares This community outreach program for the homeless provides food, clothing and psychiatric services, and helps put a roof over the heads of people in the streets. Families can help by organizing drives to collect food, clothing or toiletries. During the winter, seasonal clothing for adults is especially needed.
The Salvation Army – Kettle Bell Ringing Rambunctious and fun-loving kiddos will have a blast ringing bells for The Salvation Army’s annual Red Kettle drive. Bell ringers usually sign up for a minimum 2-hour shift so it’s the perfect way to split duties between friends, siblings or group organizations. And, all the little ones need to do is ring a bell! They can be noisy, chatty and sweet all while raising money for those in need. Who wouldn’t drop some coins in the kettle?!
Rising Hope Mission Church Families looking for a place where their donations will go directly to the local community should check out Rising Hope Mission Church. 100% of donations go to people living in poverty along the Route 1 corridor in Fairfax County. Kiddos can host food drives, clothing donations and even plan a lemonade stand in support of Rising Hope. Each season the mission has different requests so parents and their kids can tailor their volunteering to what’s needed most at the church.
Tropical beach vacations, dude ranches, farm stays and theme parks—these amazing options and more make choosing the best vacation option for your family a tough decision (especially after forgoing family vacations for so many months). Leave the planning to our expert travel editors as we’ve got recommendations for the best trips to take with kids of every age. Scroll through and be inspired!
Best Vacations for Babies
All-Inclusive Resorts with Baby Care
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Traveling with an infant might not be at the top of your list for ideal vacations but who needs a vacation more than new parents? Many all-inclusive resorts know that parents just want to relax and they offer baby care in your room or onsite so that you can relax by the pool, enjoy a spa treatment or check out the buffet.
Some options we love:
Club Medoffers a baby program for 4 months and up at many of their resorts.
While it might seem like toddlers are a little on the young side for Disney vacations, there's something that's so magical about seeing this age when they meet their favorite characters like Cinderella and Mickey Mouse. If you can plan a Disney visit before your little one turns three you'll save big as kids under age three get in free. We've got loads of other tips to save your some money at Disney here.
Bring the Grandparents Along
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There's nothing like a second set of hands that makes a toddler vacation more relaxing for everyone involved. We love traveling with toddlers and grandparents as simple things like beach days and walks are enjoyable for both of those ages. We've got lots of recs for the best destinations for multi-generational travel so check them out to see if one piques your interest.
Rent an Airbnb
Airbnb
Having a home base where you can cook meals and relax can be key when you are traveling with little ones who need naps. Airbnbs are a great option for families traveling with toddlers as it is much easier to get little ones to sleep when they can have their own space and you don't have to worry about waking them in a small hotel room. Check out this list of our favorite Airbnbs in every state as many of them come with cribs, high chairs and other toddler-friendly amenities.
Best Vacations for Families with Preschool-Aged Kids
Destination Dinosaur
Jillian G. via yelp
This age is typically when peak dino obsession hits so we love the idea of planning a trip totally devoted to dinosaurs. Pack your pint-sized paleontologists in the car and head out on a road trip to visit Dinosaur National Monument in Utah, or hit up the National Museum of Natural History in Washington D.C. We've got a huge list of our favorite spots for dinosaur lovers, so check it out!
Travel by Train
Kate Loweth
How about a vacation where getting there is half the fun? Train vacations can be fun at this age because the kids will love spotting all the sights out the window as you go. Get the full scoop on our favorite train vacations and book your next family trip on the rails.
If staying the night in a train caboose is more your speed, we've got you covered there as well. There are loads of train cars you can sleep in from a Northern California resort that's full of caboose rentals to a bed and breakfast in Minnesota where you can bunk down in a turn-of-the-century railway car.
Family Farm Stay
Shannan Rouss
Little ones will love a farm stay vacation because they can collect eggs, feed goats, pick veggies and get as dirty as they'd like. Parents will enjoy them too as they are already used to waking up with the roosters.
Aloha from the Aulani Resort
If a Hawaii family vacation is on your family wish list, consider making the Aulani Resort your destination. There are so many reasons why an Aulani vacation is epic from the family spa treatments to the interactive luau to the Disney magic that you'll find throughout the resort. With resort amenities like in-unit washers and dryers and pack n' plays in the closet, you'll have everything your family needs for a relaxing stay.
Make Your Way to LEGOLAND
LEGOLAND®
This really is the most perfect age for a visit to LEGOLAND. You'll have some of the amusement park rides on a smaller scale for the kids to tackle, plus you can go when the big kids are still in school to avoid the crowds. Check out all our LEGOLAND tips here.
Best Vacations for Families with Grade Schoolers
Hit the Road
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Once kids have passed the napping stage they are prime candidates for a family road trip. They can typically tolerate longer drives without having to make millions of pit stops and they actually enjoy the journey itself. Download a new podcast, stock up on snacks and you'll be on your way to some major fun.
Educational Trips FTW
South Dakota Department of Tourism
Kids in school love to learn. Build on that enthusiasm by planning your next family vacation to include spots that will make your kids smarter from historical monuments to places to learn all about fossils to observatories where you can learn about what's beyond our atmosphere.
Visit a National Park
Kate Loweth
There are so many great national parks in the U.S. that you'll want to visit as many as you can while the kids are still young (and willing). Grade schoolers will love learning about the history in these parks and they have the energy to go on decently-long hikes as long as you bring enough snacks. If you've got a fourth grader, your whole family can get a free pass to all the national parks through the Every Kid Outdoors program.
RV Camping FTW
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While many families with babies and toddlers are brave enough to attempt the RV road trip, we think the grade school age is the best time to try it out. Kids are more willing to sit for longer periods of time and will actually enjoy the RV camping experience. This age is also prime time to try out a camper van because it's easier to share a smaller space with small kids instead of stinky teens.
All Day at the Waterpark
Great Wolf Lodge
This is the perfect age to book a family vacation at a waterpark hotel like Great Wolf Lodge. Kids will love the character encounters and there are tons of activities to keep the kids busy from storytimes to craft activities. Themed rooms will totally delight them and there are waterslides for every level of bravery.
Make It a Ski Vacation
Jeff Curtes/Squaw Valley
If you haven't taken your kids on a ski resort vacation, this is the time to do it. Grade schoolers can join group lessons to get the feel of the bunny slopes before they head out on more difficult terrain. You don't have to worry about leaving them for the day when they are with all their new friends!
Trips to Take with Middle Schooler and Tweens
Learn about Race
Legacy Museum
While it's essential to talk to kids about race at every age, middle schoolers can really understand the importance of the civil rights movement and how to respectfully explore other cultures. Plan a family road trip that includes stops where you can all learn a little bit about race in America. You'll be amazed at what important discussions these places bring to your family.
Explore Your Home State
Juan Nino on Unsplash
Middle schoolers have already completed their year of state history so they can likely school you in all that is important in your state. A family road trip is a fun way to delve further into your home state's history with a visit to the state capital and other historic spots along the way.
Whether you are planning a visit to the National Museum of the American Indian or to one of the other historical sites across the U.S., middle schoolers (and parents) can learn a lot about our nation's first people through presentations, artwork and documents. Spend some time studying the important indigenous people in our nation's history as part of your next family vacation.
Go International
Kate Loweth
Middle schoolers will love the adventure that comes with an international trip and there are tons of options for exploring family-friendly international cities. Learn about a new culture, try some local food and soak in all that the country has to offer. Bonus: they are old enough to carry their own luggage.
Big Roller Coasters Are Fair Game
Giant Dipper
Once they pass the height requirements, middle schoolers are at the prime age for a big coaster amusement park trip. The question is, are YOU ready?
Yee-Haw for the Dude Ranch Vacation
Kate Loweth
We love a dude ranch vacation for all kids but especially those tweens. They'll be old enough for longer trail rides and will have the focus that goes along with activities like skeet shooting and fly fishing.
While the business of the big city can be terrifying with little ones in tow, teens can totally handle the crowds, the noise and the traffic that comes along with a big city trip. They can also deal with the massive amount of walking that comes with a big city trip and can buy souvenirs with their own money. Win!
Hit the High Seas on a Family Cruise
Dennis MInty/Adventure Canada
Teens will love the freedom that a cruise offers as there are tons of ship-wide experiences that they can enjoy without parents coming along. Most large cruise lines offer a teen club where kids can hang out and tracking bands so you can find your crew when you need to. Even more fun for teens is an adventure cruise that combines shipboard entertainment with high adrenaline exploration on the shore.
The epic beauty of Alaska is something that teens will especially appreciate. Fishing experiences, dogsledding treks and hiking for days are high on the list of what Alaska has to offer. Plus, teens can really understand what a big world we live in when they see the immenseness that is our 49th state.
Children’s book publishing is a multi-billion-dollar enterprise that brings several thousand new titles—from read-aloud picture books to young adult literature—to market every year. Many of the annual offerings are good, but only a few are best. When it comes to children’s literature, annual “10 best” lists abound. The New York Times has one; so does Common Sense Media; and, of course, I have my own favorites that I contribute to this column every month!
But this month I wanted to honor the 100th anniversary of the gold-standard award for children’s literature, the Newbery Medal, which the American Library Association (ALA) has presented to the authors of “The most distinguished contributions to American literature for children” since 1922. The Newbery and the Caldecott (honoring children’s picture books) prizes are widely considered the most prestigious awards for children’s literature in the United States.
Selecting my favorites from among the many outstanding Newberys and Caldecotts was tough, but I focused on having at least one selection for each age group and included those that I find truly inventive, transcendent, or utterly hilarious.
Preschool
Sam and Dave Dig a Holewritten by Mac Barnett, and illustrated by Jon Klassen
If I was stranded on a deserted island, and could only bring one picture book, it would be this one. After reading it aloud over 50 times, it still makes me laugh, and I will never tire of the joy it brings to students of all ages. Sam and Dave are young boys out in the backyard with their dog, a canteen, and a few shovels, looking for “something spectacular.” They find an adventure for themselves, and how they do that is magical. Perhaps the moral of this story is that a spectacular day for a couple of kids is all about digging in the dirt, getting muddy, and stopping to smell the tulips… or are they daisies? Read this masterpiece with your children and find out.
Last Stop on Market Streetwritten by Matt de la Pena, illustrated by Christian Robinson
The first and only picture book to be awarded the Newbery Medal, this is a remarkable story of a young boy named CJ and his wise grandmother spending an afternoon together in a city. CJ asks the questions our own children ask all the time, and Nana’s answers are ones that we should remember. Nana teaches the at first reluctant boy to celebrate life, music, friendship and the joy of service. “He wondered how his nana always found beautiful where he never even thought to look.”
Kindergarten
Interrupting Chicken written and illustrated by David Ezra Stein
At bedtime, Papa chicken prepares to read a favorite book to the little red chicken, but before beginning, he reminds her not to interrupt the story. Reassured, he begins “Hansel and Gretel,” but just as the two children approach the witch’s house, up pops the little red chicken, exclaiming “‘DON’T GO IN! SHE’S A WITCH!’ . . . THE END!” The childlike humor of this adorable picture book will bring laughs from kids, because everyone knows the original stories. As each page is turned, the tension heightens, until Papa eventually falls asleep. There are more in this great series including, Interrupting Chicken and the Elephant of Surprise, and Interrupting Chicken, Cookies for Breakfast.
Grades One & Two
No, David written and illustrated by David Shannon
David Shannon wrote the first draft of this Caldecott Honor book at the age of five. “No” and “David” were the only words that appeared in his original book, as those were the only words he knew how to spell. We see David as he is quite naughty, reaching for a very high cookie jar, tracking mud on the carpet, banging pots and pans, and even running out the door without clothing. Finally David plays ball in the house, breaking a vase, and that is the last straw for his mother. Off to his room, feeling low and in tears, David and his mother eventually embrace as she says, “Yes David, I love you.”
Grades Three to Five
Hello Universe by Erin Entrada Kelly
Friendship and courage are resounding themes in this story told in several diverse voices. Taking place entirely in one single day, and features four middle schoolers: eleven-year-old Virgil is a shy, sweet boy who loves his grandmother; Valencia is a deaf nature-loving and lonely girl; Karoi is a Japanese self-proclaimed psychic; Chet is the class bully. When one of them is put in a life-threatening situation, leaving the others to be strong, brave, and decisive, an intriguing plot with beautifully articulated characters unfolds.
New Kidby Jerry Kraft
The first graphic novel to win the Newbery, this is the story of thirteen-year-old Jordan Banks, who transferred to a new school. He wanted to go to art school, but his parents insisted on a prestigious private school known for academics, where Jordan is one of few kids of color in his grade. He experiences prejudices and stereotyping from both kids and faculty, as well as verbal bullying. At times funny and at times uncomfortable, this book is the ultimate guide to what it feels like to not fit in.
Middle School
When You Reach Me by Rebecca Stead
It’s 1979 in New York City, and twelve-year-old Miranda is helping to prepare her mom to be on “The $20,000 Pyramid.” First, there is a fall-out with her best friend, then mysterious notes begin appearing, claiming that a life needs to be saved, and predicting things that haven’t happened yet. Miranda is incredibly smart—her favorite book is A Wrinkle in Time, which leads her to believe that time travel is involved. This part science-fiction, part mystery book will keep readers guessing until the last, unexpected, chapter.
Do you have a story you’d like to share with our readers? We’d love to hear it! Sign up to contribute your story on our Voices Network.
Keira Pride is the Head Librarian at Stratford School, the leading independent private school founded with a vision of creating a unique, multi-dimensional, educational foundation for children. As Stratford's Head Librarian, she manages the library services department across campuses throughout Northern and Southern California.
If you were to take a safari to the landscape of motherhood, moms of middle schoolers and high schoolers would be the big cats—sleek and sure-footed. Moms of elementary schoolers and preschoolers would be the herd animals—finding strength in numbers and able to pivot directions on a dime. And those of us who are moms of toddlers? We’re for sure the monkeys, relying on our silliness and our noise levels to hold our kids’ attentions, and also frequently covered in poo. While it may seem that we lose in the hierarchy of mom life, in reality, we’re the winners. Keep reading to find out why being the mom of a toddler rules—tantrums notwithstanding.
1. Zero Inhibitions. Grocery store DJ playing your favorite song on aisle 9? Your toddler’s there for you. When older kids run away from potentially embarrassing situations, your toddler is your number 1 wingman.
2. Knee Hugs. Is there anything better than feeling little arms wrap around your knees when you least expect it? No one but a toddler can give a knee hug, and it’s hard to beat.
3. Naps. When toddlers are up, we’re on, which is why they’re not the only ones who need that afternoon nap to get through the rest of the day. Whether you can eek out a nap of your own or just take care of business while your little one is down, we can all agree that a toddler nap is pretty epic.
4. Laugh-Crying. Anyone who’s ever watched Steel Magnolias knows that the best emotion is when you start to laugh while you’re crying. And your toddler is a pro at it.
5. Snuggles. Toddlers are still small enough to hold, and there’s no place they’d rather be at the end of the day than snuggled up in your arms.
6. Five-Point Restraints. For real. When your toddler is losing her mind, it’s still perfectly acceptable to plug her into a stroller or car seat that still comes with a five-point restraint. Many a parent of a tween wishes they still had that capability.
7. Gift Euphoria. They don’t care if it’s an impossible to find electronic device. Toddlers are equally excited to receive a pack of stickers as they are an Amazon Fire.
8. Cabbage Knees. What is it about toddlers’ knees that makes them dimple like that? When you’re a toddler mom, you can tickle those cabbage knees any time you want.
9. That Top-of-Head Smell. Not to get all weird on you, but a toddler’s smell—especially after a bath—could be bottled and sold. When you’re a mom to a toddler, you get to sniff the tops of their clean heads as much as you want.
10. Children’s Books. When you have a toddler, you get to read happy books about everything interesting in the world.
11. Being a Place. Toddlers don’t see their moms as just people, if they recognize us as humans at all. Moms are places for them—safe places—to run to when something is wrong, or scary, or unfair. Just being there is important to them, and it’s such an uncomplicated gift to offer.
12. Watching a Sense of Humor Develop. When your baby becomes a toddler, their language and grasp of the world around them explodes. You get to watch as their sense of humor develops out of so much perceived chaos, and giggle along with them.
13. Finding Your Tribe. There’s something about the bond of mothers navigating toddlerhood together that lasts. Whether it’s navigating new experiences or sharing the burden of carpools and creating incremental spaces of free time for one another, moms of toddlers find their people and stick with their people.
I used to be terrified of people (talking on the phone, answering the door, talking with relatives and neighbors). Pit in the stomach, tight throat, sweaty palms. I hated it with my whole being and just wanted to disappear. Then, I found band class. At first, I fell in love with the fact that no one had to talk! Your mouth was occupied with blowing into the instrument (score!). Then, I fell in love with the music, and how all of these awkward, gangly middle schoolers could come together and make something beautiful, to be part of something bigger than us. With emphasis on the whole.
For many people, music provides a vital release of emotions and pent up energy. It can be soothing and help improve your self-confidence. Music encourages us to slow down and be in the present moment more. It’s also strongly tied to memory, literacy skills and can boost brain function. Additionally, it has the power to move you to tears or to jump for joy. Most importantly, music helps us connect to something bigger than ourselves, to feel heard and understood and allowed to just be.
I believe in harnessing the powers of music to connect and communicate with our kids. I’m a huge advocate for using music as part of your positive parenting approach.
And before you say, “Ok, but I’m just not musical” or “This won’t work for me because I can’t sing,” wait! Everyone, everyone has an inner musician just waiting to come out and play. Sure, maybe as a kid you were told that you “can’t sing” and you took on that false belief as if it were the truth. I see you. I’m so sorry. And, it’s just not true!
Music is a skill just like any other, and can be improved with some intentional practice.
If you believe, as I do, in music’s ability to raise kind and sensitive humans, first believe in yourself. Know that there is no greater parent for your child than you. Yes, even if you “can’t sing.” What profound life lessons you can teach your kid through your own musical journey of trying something new, being a beginner, practicing, improving, perseverance, being a lifelong learner, plus busting the myth of “perfection” even in adulthood. You can learn right along with your child. Talk about a fantastic bonding experience.
Here are 5 easy ways to start incorporating more music (& joy) into your family life, starting today.
1. Listen to Music You Like
Share your favorite music with your child. Belt out the words no matter how out of tune you think you sound. Your child doesn’t actually know what’s “in tune” or not, they only care about your energy and joy. If you’re enjoying yourself, then your child will, too. Pretend you’re a rockstar on a stage if that helps, sing loud and proud!
2. Draw to Music
Put on some classical or instrumental music and draw what the music makes you feel. No singing required. Draw for a few minutes. Be intentional about your colors, shapes, designs, etc. Share what you drew and why at the end.
3. Start a Family Dance Party
Crank up the party music and get silly! Wiggle, shake, dance, jump, bounce, slide. Take turns copying each other’s dance moves. This is also a great way to reset the energy of the day, too. The sillier the better. Play Follow-The-Leader around the house.
4. Play Instruments Together
Grab a drum and a maraca and play, play, play. Take turns playing rhythmic patterns. Copy each other’s rhythms. Play a steady beat (pulse) while you sing a favorite nursery song or recite a rhyme. Change the speed. Change the volume.
5. Choose One Specific Song
Got tantrums? (washing hands, brushing teeth, bath time, diaper changes, bedtime…) Choose one specific song that you ONLY listen to during that time to make it extra special, plus something to look forward to.
Keep these tips handy as you lead from the heart in your peaceful parenting practice. Help your child navigate this great, big world with ease, compassion and confidence.
Holly, BMEd loves showing you how to use music to connect and communicate with your kid! She is also a mama, lover of all things colorful and silly, and founder of Harmony Lodge Music - where music and parenting connect playfully. She offers online music classes for littles age 0-6.
Explore one of DC’s many historically Black neighborhoods and Black historic sites and landmarks in celebration of Black History Month this February. From reflecting on the Civil Rights movement on the National Mall to getting a hands-on education about Black Civil War regiments at the African American Civil War Museum, we’ve rounded up some of the most notable sites and some off-the-beaten path locations to help guide you when exploring Black history here in DC.
Home of the Bison, this historically Black university sits on the edge of the U St. corridor (see below) in DC's Shaw neighborhood. Famous graduates includes our first Black, first Asian and first woman Vice President Kamala Harris, the Supreme Court's first Black justice Thurgood Marshall, author Toni Morrison, the first Black mayor of NYC David Dinkins and more. The university's library, Founders Library, is listed on the national registry of historic places; it's bell tower can be seen prominently beyond campus.
Editor's Note: Founder's Library is temporarily closed to the public.
This memorial depicting one of the first Black Union regiments formed during the Civil War is on permanent display in the National Gallery of Art. The bronze work of art depicts Colonel Robert Gould Shaw parading to the Boston docks before departing for South Carolina with his troop. When you visit, be sure to check out this National Park Service guide that shares the 1,500 names of the men who served this regiment.
Constitution Ave. NW, Between 3 & 9th St. National Mall Online:nga.gov
Stretching two blocks on 16th St. (south of K St.), the Black Lives Matter Plaza feature a boldly painted yellow mural in all caps declaring: Black Lives Matter. The Plaza along with a street sign bearing the same name, were dedicated on June 5, 2020 (the birthday of Breonna Taylor). Originally used as grounds for demonstrations due to the close proximity to the White House, in Oct. of 2021 it became a permanent installation and remains a pedestrian-friendly walkway where people often come to photograph the 50 ft. letters.
Starting at K & 16 St. Downtown DC
Frederick Douglass National Historic Site
Frederick Douglas National Historic Site
It took two generations to establish and restore this spot as a National Historic Site. Cedar Hill, the Southeast DC home where escaped slave turned preeminent orator and scholar,Frederick Douglass, lived his final years. Now serving as an educational center, Cedar Hill runs tours, and sponsors family-friendly events throughout the year, including Douglass’s birthday celebration.
Insider Tip: You can tour this property from the comfort of your home here.
1411 W St., SE Anacostia 202-426-5961 Online: nps.gov
The U St. corridor was once known as the Black Broadway district. Flanked by Howard Theatre on the east end and 14th St. on the west, this neighborhood was DC's cultural epicenter from the early 1900s to the mid '60s. Explore this cultural stomping ground by starting at Howard Theatre, the iconic stage where legends like Duke Ellington, Ella Fitzgerald, Billie Holliday and Nat King Cole got their start and heading northwest and pass the Bohemian Caverns (a former speakeasy hidden by a first floor pharmacy where Duke Ellington was a frequent performer), and continue west to historic Lincoln Theatre; don't forget to stop in near-by DC landmark Ben's Chili Bowl, a black-owned
Pay tribute to the iconic abolitionists Mary and Emily Edmonson. The bronze memorial at 1701 Duke St. in Alexandria (directly across the street from Whole Foods) sits steps away from the former the Bruin's Jail where the sisters, then 15 and 13, were held after they tried to escape the clutches of slavery on a New Jersey-bound schooner, The Pearl. The sisters were later freed by their father (with the help of a abolitionist and minister Henry Ward Beecher) when he paid $2,250 for their emancipation. Bruin's Jail is now an office building, but you can read the historical plague in front of it at 1707 Duke Street.
To honor the most powerful voice of the Civil Rights movement, this memorial has 15 quotes etched in granite to inspire the next generation. From "Out of the mountain of despair, a stone of hope" on the Martin Luther King Jr. statue to "True peace is not merely the absence of tension; it is the presence of justice" on the north wall, these inscriptions etched in granite offer a chance for families to collectively reflect on some of Martin Luther King Jr's most moving words.
Take a ten minute walk from the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial and you will reach the steps of the Lincoln Memorial where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his most famous speech, "I Have a Dream." Step into history; eighteen steps from the top of the memorial is an inspiration dedicated to the very spot Martin Luther King Jr. stood when he addressed the crowd of 250,000 on the National Mall.
Editor's Tip: Take part in history! Download the "I Have a Dream" speech from PBS and listen to it as you stand in the very spot it was delivered. You'll also find educational lessons to do at home on the PBS site.
2 Lincoln Memorial Cir. NW National Mall Online:nps.gov/linc/
This church is the oldest Black church in Washington, DC. Once a slave and tobacco trading site in the early 1800s, it became a church in 1816 and later a station on the Underground Railroad during the Civil War. It is believed a vault on the Burial Grounds was used to hide enslaved people as they made their way north. You can learn more about the church's history as well as the original Black citizens of Georgetown at the church's Heritage Center (2906 O Street). To note: tours are by appointment only. Other near-by points of interest on Georgetown's African American Heritage Trail include Rose Park Recreation Center, the John H. Fleet residence, the Emma V. Brown residence, and more.
1334 29th St. NW Georgetown 202-234-0148 Online:mtzionumcdc.org
National Museum of African-American History and Culture
National Museum of African-American History and Culture
The stunning building, inspired by Yoruba art and filigree ironwork, is filled with presentations and artifacts that give visitors a glimpse at all aspects—the good and the gut-wrenching—of the African American experience. It’s a must-visit for the entire family. See our in-depth guide here.
Editor's Note: This museum is closed on Mon.-Tues. Get your timed entry pass here.
1400 Constitution Ave. NW National Mall Online:nmaahc.si.edu
For a peek at the first DC statue to honor both a woman and an African-American, head to Lincoln Park to visit the Mary McLeod Bethune memorial (erected in 1974). Bethune is remembered as a civil rights leader, a suffragist and the first African-American woman to head a Federal agency. She may be best known for her contributions to education; she founded the Bethune-Cookman University, which is today’s only historically Black college to have been founded by a woman. What better way to celebrate Bethune’s passion for education than with the game I Spy with sight words. Come prepared with flashcards for the following words, which can all be found in the statue's inscription: LOVE, HOPE, EDUCATION, RESPECT, FAITH, and DIGNITY.
"Spirit of Freedom,' which sits at the corner of Vermont Avenue and 10th Street, honors the 209,145 Black soldiers and officers who served under the Bureau of United States Colored Troops in the fight to free enslaved Black Americans. Across the street, you'll find the African-American Civil War Museum. Tours of the actual museum are by appointment only; this living museum has a number of must-book programs that bring history to life through re-enactments, including the one-hour, award-winning School of the Soldierprogram for elementary and middle schoolers.
Richmond is steeped in important Black history and here are just a few of the ways you can experience it with your kids.
Visit the home of Maggie Lena Walker, a newspaper editor, bank president and champion of civil rights for African Americans and women. Join a tour of her home and an exhibit hall, watch a short film about her life and walk in the footsteps of a great activist of the early 20th century. There's also a Maggie L. Walker Memorial Plaza.
The Black History Museum & Cultural Center of Virginia celebrates the rich culture and history African Americans people in Virginia and has permanent exhibits that explore Jim Crow, Reconstruction, Emancipation and more.
You can also explore Richmond’s monuments: Virginia Civil Rights Memorial on the Capitol grounds, Slavery Reconciliation Statue, Henry Box Brown, Bill “Bojangles” Robinson monument and the Arthur Ashe monument on Monument Ave. There's also a self-guided Richmond Slave Trail: Walk along and discover seventeen different markers that display the somber truth about slavery in Richmond.
At the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts entrance along historic Arthur Ashe boulevard, you'll find Rumors of War, a powerful sculpture by Black artist Kehinde Wiley’s. You'll also currently find the the Marcus-David Peter Circle (Robert E. Lee Monument) where artist Dustin Klein's light projections on the statue of Robert E. Lee include images and videos of Black citizens who are victims of police brutality, including Breonna Taylor and George Floyd, as well as projects of iconic Black leaders like Frederick Douglass, Harriet Tubman, Billie Holiday, and Malcom X.
Nearly thirty years ago, at the Presidential Inauguration Ceremony, poet Maya Angelou read her composition On the Pulse of Morning, a poem that encouraged fresh beginnings and positive habits even while lamenting the failings of our past, notably those related to the environment. On the Pulse of Morning is about nature, but like all fine poems, it speaks to larger themes, imparting wisdom between the lines and new insights with each re-read. Among this poem’s broad messages are that humans, by virtue of their intellects, do have the capacity to change, and that Hope is a motivator. Hope for a better future can be the basis for fresh beginnings and new habits.
The sentence that I love most is, “The horizon leans forward, offering you space to place new steps of change.” I love it because the “horizon leaning forward” is figurative language that could represent the mission of any good school. We want our schools to be places where all our students have the space and the resources to reach their potential as scholars and problem-solvers, where they are free to stumble and then start over, where they develop positive and lasting habits of mind, among them empathy and remaining open to continuous learning.
It is in this spirit—and at the onset of the new horizon of 2022—we recommend some stories that speak to fresh beginnings and feature personal growth themes and amplify ideas we promote in our schools.
Preschool
Because Amelia SmiledWritten and Illustrated by David Ezra Stein
Amelia’s smile and her general happiness go on to cause a chain reaction of goodwill and inspiration that continues across several other countries and eventually back to Amelia. The message here is strong: one person’s action can make a difference, like ripples in the ocean. When we do kind things for other people, they are more likely to do kind things themselves. Stein’s bright pencil, crayon and watercolor illustrations make this book a treasure.
Kindergarten
The Longest Storm Written by Dan Yaccarino
A beautifully illustrated picture book about the importance of having coping skills. This author/illustrator places a metaphor moment where the storm forces the family into total darkness and isolation. “There was nothing to do and too much time to do it.” Once the family realizes that they can work together, they find forgiveness and comfort in each other. The importance of saying sorry, as well as healing and moving on as a family are clearly portrayed on the pages of this book. A great conversation starter for some tough topics.
Grades One & Two
Manjhi Moves a MountainWritten by Nancy Churnin, Illustrated by Danny Popovici
This incredible true story is about a man so determined, he spent 22 years chiseling through a mountain. The breathtaking double-page watercolor illustrations capture the decades-long timeline and determination of Manjhi. In a small village deep in India the townspeople at first ridiculed him. He was eventually joined by his community, transforming him to a legend. The book includes a way for readers to share their own experiences and celebrates kids who do acts of kindness, good deeds, and encouraging kindness to spread.
The Bad Mood and the StickWritten by Lemony Snicket and Illustrated by Matthew Forsythe
This brilliant and unique story tells the tale of a bad mood and a stick, and ponders the cause and effect of each of them. They travel around the town, poking brothers, falling in mud puddles, and missing out on ice cream. When the stick has a cocoon on it, the ice cream store owner displays it for all to see. What becomes of the bad mood? The striking gouache, ink, and pencil illustrations, show us where the bad mood travels, and how a bad mood can be cured. This personification of a bad mood gives children a tool through which they can gain understanding about the way moods work and impact our lives.
Grades Three to Five
One Plastic Bag: Isatou Ceesay and the Recycling Women of the Gambia Written by Miranda Paul, Illustrated by Elizabeth Zunan
This inspiring true story is about Isatou Ceesay, who began a movement to do something about the plastic bags that were polluting her community. The bags were being discarded everywhere, which led to dirty water, mosquitoes, and eventually sickening the goats who began eating them. With unique art and native words interspersed throughout, the story follows persistent Isatou who thinks outside the box and ignores the laughter to solve this town’s problem.
Middle School
Stuntboy, In the MeantimeWritten by Jason Reynolds, illustrated by Raul the Third
Newbery Medal honoree and National Ambassador for Young People’s Literature Jason Reynolds and graphic novel artist Raul the Third collaborated on this hilarious, hopeful, and action-packed illustrated chapter book about the greatest young superhero you’ve never heard of. The main character, Portico Reeves, creates a superhero persona to help himself deal with bullies, his family issues, and his own anxiety. Stuntboy is a hero with determination and a true heart of gold, even when his problems make life hard. This book is full of comics but has a deep and meaningful story that many middle schoolers will appreciate.
PonyWritten by RJ Palacio
The Author of Wonder brings us this historical fiction story which takes place in 1860 Ohio. Twelve-year-old Silas witnesses his Scottish immigrant father’s abduction, and must push himself past all his fears while on a mission to rescue him. It becomes a hero’s journey, on which Silas feels like Telemachus from Greek mythology. The other star of the book is the Arabian pony with a white skull on his face that seemingly understands how to help his travel partner. This is a story about resilience and bravery, companionship, and family bonds. Included as illustrations are daguerreotype portraits, which are fun and help to visualize the characters in their era.
Keira Pride is the Head Librarian at Stratford School, the leading independent private school founded with a vision of creating a unique, multi-dimensional, educational foundation for children. As Stratford's Head Librarian, she manages the library services department across campuses throughout Northern and Southern California.
