ML Interest Tag: palo-alto

Ahoy Matey! Where to Play Pirate in the Bay Area

by laure latham

Parrots and pirates anyone? Arrr! Channel that inner Long John Silver and dive right into some San Francisco Bay Area buccaneer adventures. Aye, any day can be a pirate day in the Bay Area. Just check out these mean pirate hangouts for aspiring scallywags of all ages.

East Bay

Pirates Unite: The Norcal Pirate Fest
Spend Father’s Day weekend in the biggest pirate playground around and yo ho ho it over to Vallejo for the 9th Annual Northern California Pirate Festival. Don your patches and explore pirate encampments, cannon battles, nautical handicrafts, and maritime music. The kids can enjoy a entire area of their own including the 30 ft. Kraken slide that’s devouring a ship, a School of Piracy where they will learn to scallywag with the best of them, and tons of entertainment and crafts. Plus you just gave Dad carte blanche to swordfight and eat an entire smoked turkey leg while gazing at mermaids. It’s a Father’s Day win, pirate style.

Date: Sat. June 20 and Sun. June 21, 10 a.m–6 p.m.
Waterfront Park
289 Mare Island Way
Vallejo, Ca
Get your tickets HERE: events.tinybeans.go-vip.net

Enjoy Pizza with a Side of Buried Treasure
Further afield in Benicia, Pizza Pirate decorates tables with treasure chests and a full-on pirate theme. This pizza place is a local’s favorite for kids’ birthday parties, a in addition to ever-popular pizza, the kids love appetizers like Captain Hook (sourdough garlic bread topped with gooey mozzerella and provelone) and pasta dishes like the Captain Jack Sparrow (penne with marinara). Don’t skip the Ship Wreck Sundaes for dessert. Good to know: bathrooms feature not just changing tables but extra diapers as well! 

72 Solano Sq.
Benicia, Ca
707-745-1667
Online: mypizzapirate.com

Marin

Fly to Neverland on Mt. Tam
Turns out, the second star to the right leads right to the top of Mt. Tamalpais, at least this year, where you take a trip to the Mountain Play’s production of Peter Pan. Enjoy this lively play in an epic outdoor amphitheater carved at the top of the mountain. Want to make the experience extra special? Go for the VIP (Very Important Pirate) experience offered for the Father’s Day show and you will get four tickets, luxury transport to and from the play and a gourmet cooler bag packed with lunch for 4, snacks for the kids and even a bottle of vino for mom and dad.

Date: Sunday June 21, 11 a.m.-5 p.m
MV Middle School
425 Sycamore Ave.
Mill Valley, Ca
Reserve your spot HERE: events.tinybeans.go-vip.net

San Francisco

Board a Ship at the SF Maritime Museum
Standing on the stern of the Balclutha, an 1886 square-rigged ship, kids can imagine sailing the seven seas on a backdrop of San Francisco’s cityline from Hyde Street Pier. This historic ship at the San Francisco Maritime Museum offers daily guided tours and fun special events such as sing alongs and sea creature meet-and-greets. Check their calendar for upcoming events.

2905 Hyde St./Visitor Center: 499 Jefferson St.
San Francisco, Ca
Online: nps.gov

Buy Mermaid Bait at 826 Valencia/Pirate Supply Store
This is guaranteed to be the only spot in the world where you can take a writing or bookmaking workshop AND buy a jar of leeches. With shelves stocked with Black Beard Dye, Mermaid Bait (or Repellant), Belly of the Whale Escape Kits, eye–patches, scurvy awareness posters that declare A Lemon a Day, plus t-shirts, compasses, high-end-hooks and even authentic peg-legs created by a professional prosthetic craftsman, this shop is like stepping on board a ship from 1699. The ultimate rebel with a cause, the store acts as a front for the nonprofit 826 Valencia, an organization founded by author Dave Eggers and educator Ninive Calegari dedicated to helping students ages 6-18 with their writing skills. So get you can feel good knowing your doubloons are going to a worthy cause.

826 Valencia St.
San Francisco, Ca
Online: 826valencia.org

Peninsula

Storm the Library with the Family
On June 12, sail over to the treetop room at the Children’s Library in Palo Alto for a (free!) family date night filled with pirate-themed fun. Swashbuckling stories, music and more will be on the program for this special pirate’s night out. Advance registration is required! 

Date: Friday, June 12 from 6:15-7:45 pm
Treetop Room, Children’s Library
1276 Harriet St.
Palo Alto, Ca
Online: cityofpaloalto.org

Play Like a Pirate
Two marine-themed playgrounds stand out for imaginary swashbuckling scenes. Located at Palo Alto’s Shoreline Lake, the play structure features a kid-sized boat on a sea of sand inspired by the Sailing Scows of San Francisco Bay.

At Moss Beach on the coast, at the corner of Virginia and Etheldore, Moss Beach playground includes a pirate ship, lighthouse and forts, all ADA-accessible. Go scour the beach for buried treasure afterwards!

Shoreline Lake
3160 N. Shoreline Blvd.
Mountain View, Ca
650-965-7474
Online: shorelinelake.com

Moss Beach Playground
Virginia Ave. at Etheldore St.
Moss Beach, Ca
Online: mossbeachpark.com

Just for fun: Brush up on your pirate-speak before your big event. 

—Erin Feher and Laure Latham

 

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Just Opened: Magical Bridge Playground

by bonggamom

The Bay Area is home to some of the best playgrounds in the country, but children with special needs haven’t always been able to share in the fun … until now. Palo Alto’s brand new all-inclusive Magical Bridge Playground goes way beyond wheelchair ramps: think wheelchair-accessible treehouses, signs in braille, bucket swings, and wide slides. It’s truly a place where children of all abilities can play side by side.


Photo Credit: Bonggamom on Google+

Building Bridges: The Story Behind the Playground
The Magical Bridge Playground is the brainchild of Palo Alto parent Olenka Villareal. Her daughter Ava was born with developmental challenges, and Olenka quickly realized there were no places where she could take Ava to play. Olenka envisioned a playground where kids of any ability could have fun and feel included. When she couldn’t find one, she set out to create her own.

It took 6 years and over $3 million to make Olenka’s vision a reality, but the result is nothing short of magical: the first truly inclusive playground in the Bay Area. The Magical Bridge Playground is a place so accessible that children with varying disabilities can play, and so cool that typically developing children want to join in the fun.

Fun for Everyone
The smiles begin as soon as you enter the playground area: Sensors built into the main entrance wall trigger a series of soothing sounds as you cross the threshold. The playground has everything little ones need for hours of swinging, sliding, spinning, climbing, and pretending. Bucket swings let groups of children swing together, and spinning coocoons will make kids dizzy with happiness. A two-story play house is set among the trees, and a swinging bridge leads young adventurers to a slide hill, with multiple paths to the bottom. There’s even a place for the littlest tots, with a mini play structure and a set of musical bells.


Photo credit: Magical Bridge Playground

On Top of the World
The playground’s piece de resistance, a giant two-story play house, was designed by local artist Barbara Butler. Inspired by her own free-range childhood, Barbara set out to create a magical space filled with nooks and crannies for kids to escape to. Colorful accents, large windows, and a simple floor plan help visually impaired individuals navigate throughout. The second floor looks out onto a stage area, where budding performers can sing or act their hearts out. Both floors are wheelchair accessible, so kids and adults in wheelchairs can enjoy the sensation of living in the treetops. Even the swinging bridge leading to the slide hill is wheelchair accessible.


Photo credit: Magical Bridge Playground on Flickr, Bonggamom on Google+

Music to Our Ears
Kids of all ages are sure to enjoy the playground’s Light Harp, a 20-foot arch whose “harp strings” are actually invisible laser beams spanning the top of the arch to the playground floor. Movement across the beams triggers soothing, musical sounds; wave your hands hands, arms, legs across the arch, or use your entire body to create sweet music.


Photo credit: Magical Bridge Playground on Facebook

Thoughtful Touches
Magical Bridge Playground is designed to allow individuals—children, teens, and adults—with disabilities to access each and every attraction. Among the inclusive features: signs in braille, bucket swings for individuals with limited upper body strength, slides with rollers for individuals with limited mobility, wheelchair-accessible teeter-totters and merry-go-rounds, wide pathways, nooks and quiet areas for overstimulated kids, lots of hand railings, and trees for shade. One of our favorite features is a slide with an extra-wide landing area, so that kids who need a moment to get back up (or into their wheelchair) can scoot over and let the next kid in line slide down.


Photo credit: Magical Bridge Playground on Facebook

Good to know
The closest parking is located at the adjacent Abilities United center, a non profit that supports children and adults with disabilities. Additional parking is located at the Mitchell Park Library, and restrooms are located across the bridge at the Mitchell Park Playground. The closest snack bar is Ada’s Cafe at the Mitchell Park Library; in addition, an Ada’s Cafe snack cart, staffed by disabled individuals with the help of Abilities United volunteers, will make its way to Magical Bridge once a day to sell their goodies.

Magical Bridge Playground
Mitchell Park
600 E. Meadow Dr.
Palo Alto, Ca
650-463-4900
magicalbridge.org

Have you been to Magical Bridge Playground yet? What was your favorite feature?

—Ana Picazo

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Earth Day Clean Up Events Around the Bay

by Molly Blake

Going green for Earth Day is a great excuse to get dirty! All around the Bay, families can roll up their collective sleeves to pull weeds and spruce up area trails. You might even learn a thing or two. Like the fact that this year marks the 45th Anniversary of Earth Day and every year a billion people participate in events around the globe all in the name of keeping our planet healthy. Here are a few ways you can pitch in this year.


Photo credit: Chris Martin via Flickr

Angel Island
Hop a ferry to Angel Island and spend the day cleaning up the dock, pulling weeds and even swinging an ax. The 640-acre island in the Bay boasts fabulous views and roads and trails that need some love.

When: Sat., Apr. 18, 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m. (check-in 8:30 a.m.)

Where: Angel Island State Park. The ferry leaves at 9 a.m. from Tiburon Ferry dock, 9 Main Street. Return trips run every hour until 4:20 p.m.

Ages: All

Online: calparks.org

Photo credit:  California State Parks Foundation

Stinson Beach
The devastating tsunami that rocked Japan in March 2011 sent tons of refuse into our oceans and it’s still washing up on our beaches. Help scour Ocean and Stinson Beaches for trash and debris. Meet by the entrance to the beach on the northern end of the middle parking lot at Stinson Beach.

When: Sat., April 18, 10 a.m. – noon

Where: Stinson Beach, Marin, Ca

Ages: All

Online: http://www.earthdaystinsonbeach.org/

CandleStick Point
Just one of 27 parks that are due for some spring cleaning, CandleStick Point State Rec Area will need folks to put picnic tables together, remove graffiti, pull weeds and participate in general cleanup.

When: Sat., Apr. 18, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. (check-in 8:30 a.m.)

Where: Candlestick Point State Recreation Area; 1150 Carroll Ave., San Francisco, Ca

Ages: All

Online: calparks.org

Photo credit:  California State Parks Foundation

East Bay
Restore habitats and spruce up the rivers and shoreline this Earth Day in the East Bay. Grab your refillable water bottle (less plastic), work gloves and a trash bag. Check out the

When: April 18, 8:30 am to noon

Where: 3 locations 
Martin Luther King Jr., Regional Park – Damon Marsh Trail, Oakport Drive
Lake Chabot Regional Park
McLaughlin Eastshore Regional Park – Pt. Isabel

Ages: All

Online: ebparks.org

The Baylands, Palo Alto
The Baylands are a mega habitat. Home to tons of plant species, weeding out unwanted residents helps keep this precious resource healthy. Grab a sun hat and rain coat and prepare to get dirty and muddy. Register here. But do it quickly as there are limited spots available.

When: Sat., Apr. 25, 9 a.m.–noon

Where: Palo Alto Baylands

Ages: All

Online: savesfbay.org

 Photo Credit: Don McCullough via creativecommons flickr

South Bay
Earth Day doesn’t have to end in April.  Keep the green going with National River Clean Up Day on Saturday, May 16. Join volunteers along Santa Clara County waterways and pick up trash and debris that clog these beautiful rivers, lakes and streams. Sunscreen is a must!

When: Sat., May 16, 9 a.m.–noon

Where: various locations

Ages: all

Online: http://www.cleanacreek.org/

How are you planning on helping out this Earth Day? Tell us in the comments below! 

—Molly Blake

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Best Bakeries in the Peninsula/South Bay

by rtmelodysorensen

If your home has a revolving door of visitors during the holidays, it’s nice to welcome folks with a variety of home baked goodies—but who has that kind of time? Whether you need to pick up a quick treat for the kiddos, or pre-order a special dessert for a party, we’ve put together a list of our favorite bakeries in the Peninsula/South Bay. We hope our finds will help you out during this wonderfully busy holiday season—and remember to pick up something sweet for yourself.

Copenhagen Bakery – Photo via Jayne A. on Yelp

Burlingame

Copenhagen Bakery
It’s well known that the Danes are extraordinary bakers. And since this writer is married to a Dane, I can personally promise that the Copenhagen Bakery is as authentic as it gets in California. If you need a holiday treat that truly tastes like the holidays (butter, cinnamon, sugar… yes, please) don’t hesitate to stop by. We also recommend staying for lunch, as their adjoining cafe has an endless menu of tasty Scandinavian-inspired meals sure to please the entire family.

1216 Burlingame Ave.
Burlingame, Ca
650-342-1357
Hours: Monday & Tuesday, 6 a.m.-6 p.m., Wednesday & Thursday, 6 a.m.-9 p.m., Friday & Saturday: 6 a.m.-10 p.m., Sunday: 7 a.m.-9 p.m.
Online: copenhagenbakery.com

Redwood City

Cafe La Tartine
For those of you who are lemon meringue lovers—and let’s be honest, there’s a lot of us—this is the bakery for you. Cafe La Tartine has an incredible selection of delectable desserts inspired by Europe. And the ambiance here is so cozy, it’s perfect to go to before or after a movie downtown. Of course with sweet treats this good, you may forget about your movie plans entirely—but who could really blame you?

830 Middlefield Rd.
Redwood City, Ca
650-474-2233
Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 7 a.m.–9 p.m., Fri, 7 a.m.–11 p.m., Sat., 8 a.m.–11 p.m., Sun: 8.a.m.–9 p.m.
Online: cafelatartine.com

Photo: Denise M via Flickr

Menlo Park

Draeger’s Market Bakery
When you need classic baked goods that taste homemade, consider Draeger’s Market Bakery your new best friend. They make a banana bread so incredible, it tastes like your mother made it. Their macaroons are insanely impressive, perfect for a holiday fete. And when your child tells you on the way to the school party that YOU were supposed to bring the cake? Don’t worry, Draeger’s cupcakes will have the teacher begging you for the recipe.

1010 University Dr.
Menlo Park, Ca
650-324-7751
Hours: 7 a.m.-8 p.m. every day
Online: draegers.com

Photo courtesy of SusieCakes

Susie Cakes
When little (and big) mouths demand a slice of cake, take the fam here. Every day this adorable bakery sells slices of their freshly made (and always delicious) cakes. And these aren’t just any ol’ slices—the epic sizes will silence even your chattiest kid. Order a slice of their chocolate cake, and a nice cold glass of milk, and prepare to be transported back to your childhood. Good to know: Another Susie Cakes just opened in San Carlos.

642 Santa Cruz Ave.
Menlo Park, Ca
650-324-2252
Hours: Mon.-Sat. 10 a.m.-7 p.m.
Online: susiecakes.com

Palo Alto

Mayfield Bakery
If you agreed to host brunch at your house and you can’t remember why (or maybe you just need an easy meal for out-of-towners), call ahead and place an order for one of Mayfield Bakery’s savory quiches. There’s both veggie and meat options, and while they’re a bit pricey (veg is $56, meat is $60), each quiche feeds 8 people, so we think the time and energy saved is well worth the cash.

Town & Country Village
855 El Camino Real
Palo Alto, Ca
650-853-9201
Hours: Mon.-Fri., 7 a.m.–7 p.m., Sat-Sun, 7 a.m.–6 p.m.
Online: mayfieldbakery.com

Photo: Susanne Nilsson on Flickr creative commons

La Baguette
If you’ve been looking for the perfect Black and White Cookie, do yourself a favor and head straight to La Baguette. Try to arrive hungry because the other goodies offered here are show stoppers as well. Located in Stanford Shopping Mall, the bakery is also a perfect place to grab a quick and savory lunch while holiday shopping with the kiddies.

170 Stanford Shopping Center
Palo Alto, Ca
650-321-0535
Hours: Mon.-Fri., 10 a.m.-9 p.m., Sat., 10 a.m.-7 p.m., Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Online: labaguettestanford.com

Los Altos

Voyageur Du Temps
When you need a special spot to take the child who already believes she’s a grown up, tell her you have a surprise and bring her to Voyager Du Temps. When you arrive at the bakery you’ll find yourself in a place so chic and modern and lovely, you’ll forget whatever was bothering you five minutes ago. The decor? J’adore! And we’re more than a little obsessed with the artisan breads, the heavenly pastries, the delicate macaroons…. let’s just say we’d move in if they’d let us.

288 1st St.
Los Altos, Ca
650-383-5800
Hours: Monday: Closed, Tues.-Sat., 7 a.m.-7 p.m., Sun., 7 a.m-.4 p.m.
Online: voyageur.com

Photo via Jeffreyw on Flickr creative commons

Sunnyvale

Sugar Butter Flour
This bakery has the usual offerings of delicious pastries, cakes, and cookies, but what’s really special is their hand-crafted chocolates. If you’re looking for a unique and locally-made gift for a friend, a child’s teacher, or maybe even yourself, look no further. The chocolate gift boxes are available in 4, 9, 12, and 24 pieces. And with scrumptuious options like Earl Grey, Pepper Mint, and Peanut Butter Pyramid, we’ll understand if you go home with more than one.

669 S. Bernardo Ave.
Sunnyvale, Ca
408-732-8597
Hours: Mon.-Thu.m 7 a.m.–7:30 p.m., Fri., 7 a.m.-8:30 p.m., Sat., 7:30 a.m.–8:30 p.m., Sun., 8 a.m.- 5 p.m.
Online: sugarbutterflour.com

Cupertino

La Patisserie
If you’re in charge of bringing a special cake to a fabulous holiday party, then you have to go to La Patisserie. Their Burnt Almond Cake is a guaranteed crowd pleaser, as is the Red Velvet Cake, the Chocolate Forest Cake, the Hazelnut Bliss Cake.…oh we could go on, but to be honest, we need to finish eating the rest of our cake.

19758 Stevens Creek Blvd.
Cupertino, Ca
408-446-4744
Hours: Tues.- Fri., 7 a.m.-6:30 p.m., Sat., 8 a.m.-7 p.m., Sun., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Online: lapatisserie.net

 

Photo courtesy of Zest Bakery

Zest Bakery
Raise your hand if you know someone with a gluten allergy. Okay that’s pretty much everyone. And if you’re tired of baking gluten-free treats that get thrown in the garbage (no judgement, it’s happened to the best of us), allow us to introduce you to Zest Bakery. Zest is a fabulous gluten-free bakery with tribes of loyal gluten-free fans. Not only do they have yummy (gluten-free) cookies, cupcakes, and muffins, but they also make sandwiches, ravioli, quiches, and frozen pizza crust. Bring a cooler, stock up, and go show your family what gluten-free is meant to be.

1224 Arroyo Ave.
San Carlos, Ca
650-241-9378
Hours: Mon., Closed; Tues.-Sat., 8 a.m.-4 p.m., Sun. 8 a.m.- 2 p.m.
Online: http://www.zestbakery.com/

Let us know if we missed any of your favorite bakeries in the Peninsula/South Bay! 

—Melody Morgan Sorensen

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Shuddle, The Uber for Kids, Is Here!

by Erin Feher

Glowing blue Uber badges, pink furry Lyft mustaches and now…Shuddle side-mirror cozies. Shuddle is the newest ride-sharing service to launch in the Bay Area, and it’s aimed right as us: parents with busy schedules and kids with places to go.

These Kids Are Going Places
The app was founded by Nick Allen who co-founded Sidecar, a ride-sharing service for the 18-and-up crowd. When he heard of parents sending their kids off the soccer practice in his cars, as well as others like Uber, he realized the need was there. “I thought, let’s go out and create the right service that’s designed for families and safe for kids,” says Allen. The app launched on iOs in October and has already been downloaded thousands of times.

The Right Fit For Families
Shuddle’s crew of drivers all must have childcare experience, a clean driving record, pass a vehicle inspection, and go through thorough background checks and in-person training with the company. As for the kids, they have to meet a few requirements as well: they must have a mobile phone and be old enough to ride without a booster seat. Riders each have a secret word known only to them, their families and their driver, and the rule is that you only get in the car once the driver has said your password. After that, parents can track the ride in real time using the app, and they will receive updates and confirmation of drop off via text message.

An Affordable Luxury
Although a private car service for kids may seem like something that only the wealthy would opt for, Shuddle’s rates make it an appealing option for many, especially those paying nannies $25 an hour or more to drive their kids to activities. Shuddle users must pay $9 per month for membership (Shuddle says this covers the cost for their top-notch insurance and extensive driver-vetting and- training process), and then the cost per ride, which is typically less that a taxi. Estimates are given in advance of the ride; unlike Uber or Sidecar, rides can’t be summoned on a whim, but must be scheduled in advance. The service is currently offered in Berkeley, Oakland, San Francisco, Burlingame, Palo Alto, Menlo Park and Mountain View.

Would you use a service like Shuddle?

—Erin Feher

All images courtesy of Shuddle

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This New Birthday Party Craze Is Totally Poppin’

by rtmorganbrasfield

Gone are the days when princesses and superheroes ruled the children’s birthday party circuit. Bubble parties are the newest craze popping up throughout the Bay Area, with “bubbleologists” dazzling children and parents alike. Whether it’s covering your tiny guests in life-sized bubbles, or watching party-goers chase hundreds of bubbles through the air, these bubble masters are sure to leave your guests bursting with joy.

Photo Credit:  Michael Ashe via freshphotoblog.com

The San Francisco Bubble Man
Mike Ashe, also known as “The San Francisco Bubble Man,” hosts bubble parties from San Rafael to Palo Alto (no East Bay performances at this time). His parties begin with a variety of gigantic and multi-shaped bubbles to wow the crowd, and end with children and their parents learning how to make giant bubbles themselves. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a child not chasing (and popping!) his jaw-dropping bubbles.

The SF Bubbleman’s Tips On Throwing A Poppin’ Bubble Party
“We’ll need a large grassy area with enough space for the bubbles to form and the kids to run. Parks work the best, but I also work in large backyards. A little known fact, the bubbles LOVE humidity and the San Francisco fog! The colors appear more iridescent when the sky is overcast, but even in hot, dry and clear conditions, the bubbles bring out the joy in people.”

Contact: Mike Ashe, mikeashesf@gmail.com
Cost: $275-$300 per hour depending on location, more for longer parties or corporate events. Online: sfbubbleman.com

Photo Credit:  Morgan Brasfield

Bubblemania and Company
At a Bubblemania bubble party, the “bubbleologist” will perform a 30–40 minute indoor, interactive show wowing the tiniest bubble lovers with rainbow bubbles, square bubbles, triangle bubbles, bouncing bubbles and giant bubbles. The rest of the hour is spent outdoors where children learn how to make their own bubbles using bubble wands. Bubblemania will travel throughout most of the Bay Area, from Santa Rosa to Modesto to San Jose. (Strictly outdoor parties are available, please see website for details.)

Bubblemania’s Tips On Throwing A Poppin’ Bubble Party
“Encourage your kids to participate and be engaged in the show as much as possible! What is unique about a bubble party is that unlike a clown or a magician who is geared for a specific age group, bubbles appeal to kids of all ages, including the adults. We often hear from the parents, “’I think I enjoyed the show even more than my kids!'”

Contact: Joseph Ferri, 415-738-2561
Cost: $200 for 1 hour (up to 20 children, which includes an indoor presentation followed by outdoor playtime).
Online: bubblemaniaandcompanysf.com

Photo Credit:  Michael Ashe via www.freshphotoblog.com

The Bubble Lady
Rebecca Nile, also known as “The Bubble Lady”, is a 17 year veteran of bubble making. Covering all of the Bay Area and a bit beyond, Rebecca is also a clown, incorporating fun and silliness into each of her shows. Rebecca’s shows are indoor only, but her partners, “The Bubble Meisters” host outdoor bubble play for children of all ages.

The Bubble Lady’s Tips On Throwing A Poppin’ Bubble Party
“For indoor shows, make sure there is plenty of space, good lighting, and no toys lying around!  For outdoor shows,  mornings and late afternoons are the most ideal times for bubbling. Hot and dry conditions are not suited to bubbling. Most importantly, relax and enjoy your guests. That’s why you hired an entertainer!”

Contact: bubbleshows@gmail.com
Cost: $275-$325 per hour for Rebecca’s indoor show, $250-$300 per hour for the Bubble Meister’s outdoor show.
Online: thebubblelady.com

Have you ever been to a bubble party? Tell us about it in the comments! 

—Morgan Brasfield

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Palo Alto: A Playground for Techies and Tykes

by Ashley Burton

Palo Alto may be known more for its start-ups than its slide collection, but it’s just happens to be a fantastic oasis for families as well (Those 18-year-old CEOs were kids themselves, like, yesterday, right?). From beautifully landscaped parks to its own museum and zoo just for little ones, there really is something for everyone. Take a peek at our guide to enjoying Palo Alto and be sure to share your favorite spots with us, too!

Photo credit: Barron Park Donkeys

Play

Heritage Park
What’s not to love about a well-maintained, fully-enclosed play area, complete with a shaded sand pit, picnic tables and a train-themed playscape? And for the bigger kids, just outside the playground lies a spacious green field fit for throwing a ball, reading in the shade or enjoying a sandwich on the grass.

300 Homer Ave.
Palo Alto, Ca
Online: cityofpaloalto.org

Bol Park
Named after Cornelius Bol, a Stanford physicist, Bol Park’s nearly 14 acres offer ample street parking, a spacious playscape for various ages and an adjoining creek for the explorers in the family. Bring a blanket and stretch out on the meadow or enjoy a mostly-shaded stroll along Bol Park Bike Path, which is just behind the park.

3590 Laguna Ave.
Palo Alto, Ca
Online: cityofpaloalto.org

Insider tip: Head South on Bol Park Bike Path to meet Perry and Niner, two donkeys that live near the park in a private corral. Legend says one of them served as the model for the donkey in Shrek.

Photo: Sliderbar 

Eat

Slider Bar
Nothing says “kid-friendly” more than pint-sized hamburgers. Meat-lovers will enjoy the “Old School” (made with Niman Ranch all natural beef patties) or the “Carolina Babe” (made with pulled pork), while veggie aficionados can try the “Heart Throb” or vegan “Naked Truth.” And be sure to try an order of their Belgian fries; they’re worth every salty, crunchy calorie.

324 University Ave.
Palo Alto, Ca
650-322-7300
Online: sliderbarusa.com

Café 220
A reasonably priced, casual Mediterranean restaurant, Café 220 may not have an official kids menu, but has plenty of kid-approved options, including chicken shish kabobs, gyros and hummus plates. If the tables are full, take it “to go” and grab a table in Lytton Plaza, just a few steps away on the corner of Emerson St. and University Ave. And hey, while you’re there, do as the locals do and let the kids eat with their hands.

220 University Ave.
Palo Alto, Ca
650-853-8182

Douce France
Don’t let the fancy name fool you. This quaint café in Town and Country Village is a great place to grab a quick bite or special treat during some retail therapy. There are a number of soup, salad and sandwich options for grown-ups, but we won’t judge you if you order the nutella and banana sandwich off the kids menu instead.

855 El Camino Real, #104
Palo Alto, Ca
650-322-3601
Online: cafedoucefrance.com

Sips and Sweets

Tin Pot Creamery
If you’re craving a scoop, but simple vanilla just won’t cut it, head to Tin Pot Creamery in Town & Country Village for some ice cream “with a twist.” Whether it’s Salted Butterscotch, Earl Gray Tea or Roasted Banana Fudge Swirl, the sweet treat is made daily on-site from natural and wholesome ingredients, so there’s sure to be something to satisfy even the youngest foodie in your brood.

885 El Camino Real, #121
Palo Alto, CA
650-327-1715
Online: tinpotcreamery.com

David’s Tea
For a quick pick-me-up in downtown Palo Alto, stop by David’s Tea. Let their experts guide you to the perfect cup, whether you’re a tea aficionado or a first timer. With plenty of herbal or low-caffeine options, the kids can enjoy a treat without sabotaging their bedtime later. The little ones may enjoy trying a “Tea Pop” – an iced mix of tea and Italian soda.

318 University Ave.
Palo Alto, Ca
650-462-1450
Online: davidstea.com

Bonus tip: The area’s only drive-thru Starbucks is just outside the neighborhood as well, at El Camino Real and Ventura Ave.

Photo credit: Junior Museum by L. Lee H. via Yelp

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Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo
Home to more than 50 species of animals and 2500 square feet of exhibits, the Palo Alto Junior Museum and Zoo is fun for inquisitive little minds of all ages. Whether it’s learning more about renewable energy, exploring the world of bugs or getting up close and personal with Edward, the zoo’s African spurred tortoise, the JMZ is a must-visit for any aspiring scientist in your family.

Insider tip: Bring your lunch and enjoy a picnic in neighboring Rinconada Park before or after your visit.

1451 Middlefield Rd.
Palo Alto, Ca
650-329-2111
Online: cityofpaloalto.org

MyGym Palo Alto
With more than 35 weekly classes for kids ranging from six week to 11 years old, there’s a pretty good chance you’ll find one to exhaust – we mean enrich – your infant, toddler or even pre-teen. Teachers lead well-managed classes through age-appropriate exercises while allowing plenty of free time to allow kids to explore the gym on their own (under watchful parental eyes of course) and get their energy out. Free trial classes are available.Insider tip: As of Jan. 1, MyGym Palo Alto was offering a Groupon for 62% off a Lifetime Family Membership with Four Classes and Four Play Sessions.

2655 Middlefield Rd.
Palo Alto, CA
650-330-1760
Online: mygym.com/paloalto

Stanford Shopping Center
Located just off campus, Stanford Shopping Center has just what you’re looking for – whether it’s Nike or Neiman Marcus, Armani or American Girl…you get the picture. With plenty of dining options, you can shop ‘til you drop and then grab a bite to eat before you shop some more.

Insider tip: Stanford Shopping Center is dog-friendly (as well as kid-friendly), so expect to meet some new four-legged friends during your visit.

660 Stanford Shopping Center
Palo Alto, Ca
650-617-8200
Online: simon.com/mall/stanford-shopping-center

Did we miss any of your favorite places in Palo Alto? Tell us in the comments below! 

—Ashley Burton

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Drop Off and Shop: Bay Area Stores That Offer Childcare

by Gabby Cullen

Your kids don’t want to stay cart-contained or they get a case of the gimmes once the rows of cookies and cupcakes are in sight. Tantrum in aisle three, anyone? Eliminate the hassle of shopping with your kiddos by visiting a shop with childcare. We’ve got the scoop on two great Bay Area spots that offer responsible adult supervision, games and cool toys for your kids all while you whiz down the aisles checking off your to-do list in record time.

Mollie Land
Mollie Land is located inside Mollie Stone’s Market. Known to many as the store with fabulous but costly items, it seems this high-end grocery should also be known as a shop ahead of the customer service curve. A couple of select locations offer free childcare for kids ages 2-12, with fun games, cool toys and awesome supervisors. Here’s the lowdown on how Mollie Land works.

photo credit: Mollie Stones

First up, everyone gets an I.D. bracelet. Parents, be forewarned, don’t take off this stylish little bracelet before checking out, children are not released unless a matching ID number is presented. Second, and how cool is this, there are video screens of Mollie Land placed strategically throughout the store for your viewing pleasure. Finally, the staff in Mollie Land  are not checkers, butchers or bakers but rather, certified child watch employees who only work in Mollie Land.


What are some of the no-no’s at Mollie Land? No sniffling, coughing kids, because germs are just too easy to share with others. No food either, it’s easier to keep watch without having to deal with snack time.

Mollie Land at Mollie Stone’s Market

San Bruno Location
22 Bayhill Shopping Center
San Bruno, Ca
Hours: Mon – Sat: 10:00am – 6:00pm, Sun: 11:00am – 6:00pm
Phone: 650-873-8075
Online: molliestones.com/services/pages/mollieland

San Mateo Location
49 West 42nd Avenue
San Mateo, Ca
Hours: Mon – Sat: 10:00am – 6:00pm, Sun: 11:00am – 6:00pm
Phone: 650-372-2828
Online: molliestones.com/services/pages/mollieland

SMÅLAND
While it’s not exactly a grocery store, Swedish mega-store IKEA has been offering child watch for years. Once your kiddos are cool with their own potty breaks and are measuring in anywhere between 37” and  54” they are allowed to party it up in age-appropriate active play areas. Set in a Swedish forest-like environment, kids can color, play games or watch a movie or cartoons in the theater. There’s no charge and parents can get up to one hour of shopping bliss (head straight for the meatballs!) Be assured your little ones will be watched over with care and are only released into the care of the parent or person who checks in the child, as a photo ID must be presented at drop off and pick up time. This incredibly handy service does get used, so be aware, weekends and holidays may see you waiting for a drop-off.

photo credit: Ella Novak via creative commons flickr

What are some of the no-no’s at SMÅLAND? Children must be fully potty-trained. No diapers or pull ups of any kind are allowed. Kids must also be fully clothed, and if wearing swimsuits, get em’ covered up!

Insider Tip: If you join the IKEA family (aka: member program,) you get an additional thirty minutes to shop.

SMÅLAND at IKEA

East Palo Alto Location
1700 East Bayshore Road
East Palo Alto, Ca
Hours: Mon – Sun: 10:00am – 9:00pm
Phone: 650-323-4532
Online: ikea.com/us/en/store/east_palo_alto/service

Emeryville Location
4400 Shellmound Street
Emeryville, Ca
Hours: Mon – Sat: 10:00am – 9:00pm, Sun: 10:00am – 8:00pm
Phone: 510-420-4532
Online: ikea.com/us/en/store/emeryville/offers

Do you know of any other stores offering child care while shopping? We want to know–fill us in below!

— Gabrielle Cullen

 

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Chill Out at the Bay Area’s Greatest Frozen Yogurt Shops

by writerredtri

Everywhere we look, the 80s are back in style–but luckily, we haven’t seen any legwarmers yet! These days our tastes are (thankfully) a bit more refined, and one 80s fad we’re happy to get behind is the frozen yogurt one. Get your sweet fix with gourmet flavors like watermelon or açai and a multitude of toppings at one of the several hundred froyo shops in the Bay Area. And with health benefits like probiotics, calcium, potassium, among others, picking up a cup of frozen yogurt is guilt-free and family-friendly. Here’s a short list of our favorite spots to beat the heat with a tasty treat this summer.

photo courtesy of Blush Organic Frozen Yogurt’s Facebook

BEST Self-Serve
Kids will love the interactive experience at Nubi Yogurt where you can create your own swirl and sprinkle your own toppings. This is the perfect place to let the family go wild yogurt-style. Nubi has a ton of yogurt flavors, ranging from classics like plain tart to gourmet tastes like banana cream pie and Greek black cherry. When concocting your cup of froyo, just remember that they charge by the ounce. Feel free to stay a while–most locations offer free wireless internet and satellite radio.

Locations: Two in San Francisco, one in Milbrae, San Leandro, Stockton, San Jose, and San Mateo.

BEST Organic
At Blush Organic Frozen Yogurt, you can feel good about your frozen treat knowing that the dairy ingredients used do not include rBGH growth hormones, antibiotics, or chemicals and pesticides that hurt the environment. We like Blush for their wide array of seasonal flavors (think pina colada and pumpkin) and because the more you eat, the more you get! Eight visits will get you an original yogurt with two toppings if you use their loyalty card.

Locations: Dublin, Walnut Creek, Burlingame, Milpitas, and San Francisco.

photo courtesy of Pinkberry’s Facebook

BEST Gourmet
Fraîche Yogurt also uses organic milk from local dairy Clover to produce its European-style fresh yogurt that is also turned into their dessert-style frozen yogurt. Take the kids for breakfast and order the fresh yogurt or steel-cut oatmeal (and a cup of local Blue Bottle coffee for you!), or after dinner for the fat-free valrhona chocolate frozen yogurt. As for the vegans out there, Fraîche also offers a fat-free and lactose-free soy frozen yogurt. The low-fat options don’t skip a beat in flavor or consistency, proving their “sinfully delicious, outrageously healthy” motto true.

Locations: One in San Francisco and two in Palo Alto.

BEST Import
The international frozen yogurt empire Pinkberry is often credited with reviving the froyo fad when it launched in 2005 by a two-woman team that merged a passion for frozen desserts and design at their innovative spaces. Many shops have copied their style, from the toppings bar to the colorful mod furniture. Try the original at their Silicon Valley locations or the next time you fly out of SFO. Or better yet, hire Pinkberry to cater Junior’s birthday with his own private swirl party–they will come to you with all the yogurt and fixings!

Locations: Palo Alto, Sunnyvale, Santa Clara, San Ramon, SFO Airport and four more locations in San Jose.

photo courtesy of clogozm on Flickr

BEST Reader Suggestion
Yogofina wins our reader suggestion award! With 27 toppings, including 12 fresh fruit selections to choose from, you can’t go wrong. We were told to try the peach, mango, and original, but heck, they all look tasty! With 11 locations throughout the East Bay, from Danville to Castro Valley to Modesto, folks there don’t have to go far to find some Froyo goodness.   – submitted by Kristiana Tom.

We want to hear from you! Where do you get your frozen yogurt fix?

— Sarah K. Choi

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Elvis’s Birthday with Save the Bay

by Jacqui Boland

Celebrate Elvis’s Birthday with Save The Bay (Palo Alto). Bring the kids–but leave the dog–as you head to the shoreline to help save the bay with some much needed planting. The goal is to plant 25,000 native species at the MLK, Jr. shoreline. They’ll be playing a tribute to the King of Rock to speed the work along.

MLK, Jr. shoreline
Palo Alto
Jan 8, 2011
9:00 am –  12:00 pm

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