Don’t let the weather put a damper on your party plans—pick a spot where kids can climb, jump, and clown around!
With unpredictable weather and park reservations booking up months in advance it’s nice to know there are so many fun creative indoor options around the Bay Area. If your kid one wants to host a pottery class, learn ballet, or pretend to be a Ninja Warrior there is an option for you! These birthday party locations from Marin to San Jose will get your kids moving and will take the pressure off you.
Indoor Birthday Spots in San Francisco
AcroSports
AcroSports
AcroSports is a non-profit that has been teaching kids about physical activity for over 20 years. Choose from tot parties for ages 1-4 and kid parties for 5 & up. You'll get time on the trampolines, gymnastics bars, rock wall, foam pit, rainbow tunnel, obstacle courses, and aerial apparatus. Coaches supervise time on the floor. At the end of the party, your guests will join you in the party room for cake time.
With locations in Livermore, Daly City, and San Francisco, Peek-a-Boo Factory is all about letting kids get all their energy out. The three-level play structure features a variety of slides, obstacle courses, tunnels, bridges, swings, a zip line, a sea saw, sit and spins, a trampoline, and more. Designed for the 12 and younger set it has a separate area for toddlers and new crawlers. Parties run about two hours and include playtime in all areas. Want to save some cash? The facility allows fruit and veggies trays, drinks, cupcakes, and cake at no extra charge.
If you have a little chef in the house hosting a cooking class birthday at Culinary Artistas is the perfect way to host a party that is unique, fun, and low-stress. The team takes care of everything while your kids play and learn intuitive cooking. Kids can make a 1 or two course meal or dessert, or even have a cooking contest if your kids like to compete. It is BYO food, drink, and alcohol for the adults, and water is served for children. Located in Ghirardelli Square it's the perfect place to relax while your kids laugh and learn!
For a truly magical birthday look no further than The Rabbit Hole Theater. Located in Noe Valley The Rabbit Hole Theater offers theater games, puppet shows, crafts, and more. Your kids will be thoroughly entertained! All you need to provide are snacks, drinks, and the cake, the Rabbit Hole crew will take care of the rest.
This lovely nature museum tucked away behind in Corona Heights has amazing views of the city and is a fabulous spot for a kid's birthday. Kids can do an art project before visiting the wildlife or train town.
Indoor Birthday Party Spots for Kids in the East Bay
Swings and Wings
Swings and Wings
This sensory-focused and neuro-affirming play space is perfect for indoor parties! Designed by an Occupational Therapist for kids 6 months to 8 years, your kids will love building their skills through play. They offer five packages so you are sure to find one that fits your needs.
Kids love to skate? How about lessons, free skate time, and cake? Oakland Ice is a great birthday party spot for those that have been all about hitting the ice. Two hours on the ice with "Party Captains" take guests through a lesson and game featuring the birthday boy/girl. Then it's off to the party room for pizza and cake provided in the package price.
Host a paint party full of creativity and excitement. This beautiful art space is able to host parties for all ages from toddlers to adults. Party organizers will plan your event so you can relax and enjoy.
5480 Sunol Blvd, Suite 2 Pleasanton Online: creatif.com
Spirited Play Labs
The space is designed for kids 0-6 with a focus on supporting families with unique needs and disabilities. The 3.000-square-foot space hosts three group rooms and a mini kitchen to support your hosting needs, along with parking and the option to have your party decorated for you!
If the kids are into climbing anything and everything, how about a climbing party at Movement: Climbing, Yoga, Fitness? Staff will get the kids climbing and having fun, creating the most memorable party of the year. Parties are available for kids 5-13 and all climbers must be at least 40 lbs. Note: they do not allow food or cake on site and you cannot rent out any of the rooms for cake.
Another hands-off play space where kids can run around to their heart's content for 75 minutes is La Petite Playhouse in Redwood City. There are big slides, tunnels to run through, a sports court, and climbing structures in an underwater theme which is all yours during the party. Parents of little ones can bring crawlers and new walkers without worrying about being stepped on with a separate area made just for them.
Best Indoor Birthday Party Spots for Kids in the South Bay
Sessions Academy of Movement
Sessions Gym
This is a super active party that’s fun for all ages from kindergarten and up. You’ll feel like an American Ninja Warrior when you take on obstacle courses, parkour games, freerunning, and other age-dependent activities. Kids will flip for the acrobatics they get to do into the stunt bag. Outside food and drinks are permitted, so be sure to stock up on some much-needed H2O and energy bars to keep those kids going!
This is the spot for all your gaming-obsessed kids and teens. Head to Valley Fair and don your motion-tracking visor to immerse yourself in games with themes like Angry Birds, Shaun the Sheep, and more. There are games for ages 5 and up so you can bring the whole fam! We also got the inside scoop that they'll soon be adding games that are appropriate for even younger ages. Bonus: all the jumping around means everyone will get a bit of a workout while having fun.
The Valley Fair location has tables for snacks and cake if you want to plan a birthday party. They allow you to bring in outside food and drinks, and you can even get pizza and other food delivered from mall food vendors.
Have your birthday at the zoo! The museum and zoo will provide a science activity and a private room. All you have to do is provide the cake. This is ideal for kids from birth to 9 years old.
For your little dancers host a mini ballet class and story time birthday party. With locations all over the Bay Area, you can easily find one close to you and enjoy a sweet little dance party.
If jumping is your game, then Rockin' Jump is your place. A room full of trampolines is definitely going to get the kids good and tired. They will love the dodgeball area where they can battle their friends. The foam pit is always a favorite for those looking to try out some tricks. Parents will enjoy ample seating (hello massage chairs) and free WiFi. Parties include jump time and use of the party room. Other locations are in Fremont and San Carlos.
This multilevel indoor play structure is perfect for your adventurous little ones. The Safari Theme makes the space even more exciting for your next birthday.
Talk about kid heaven! Rebounderz has it all—a massive trampoline room, four-lane foam pit, trampoline dodgeball area, and even a huge climbing structure for kids 2-12. Challenge your party guests to a timed run through the Ninja Warrior Course and then celebrate victory with pizza afterward. Bonus for parents, this party is completely hands-off with food, drinks, and socks included in the party package.
Named one of the best party spaces in the Bay Area, Redwood Empire has customized parties catered to parents' time, budget, and kids' ages. Birthday party guests are led through warm-ups and have access to equipment such as floor, rings, bars, beams, trampoline, zip line, air track, and the foam pit.
If you are looking to host an elegant affair for both parents and kids, Fox & Kit is just right for you. This beautifully curated space has a gorgeous play structure alongside an espresso bar the adults will love!
Want to give back this holiday season? We rounded up 25 organizations in Chicago where your entire family can volunteer—and make a difference
Let’s face it, most kids probably think of this time of year as the season of “getting”—getting candy, getting gifts, getting visitors. If you are looking for ways to change the narrative to a holiday season of “giving,” and to teach children lessons in gratitude and empathy, there’s no better opportunity than having them witness first-hand the needs of others. Chicago is full of people in need. From supporting kids in the hospital to helping provide food to local shelters to showing love to the city’s furry friends to doing their part to protect the environment, we’ve rounded up some organizations where your entire family can put in some volunteer hours and reap the spiritual rewards. It’s proof that there is no shortness of opportunities to lend a hand.
Common Pantry established a program called Common Kids in 2014 to address the desire of parents to get their kids involved in volunteer work. Common Kids is open to kids ages 5-12. Through special events and projects, kid volunteers are able to fund-raise in an effort to combat hunger and food insecurity.
The Greater Chicago Food Depository supports more than 700 food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, and other programs throughout Cook County. One Saturday per month, the Depository holds a Kids Day, in which families with children between ages 5-11 can help repack donations for Chicago-wide distribution. Groups of up to 8 volunteers are welcome with one adult per every two children. Additional Kids Days are held during winter and summer breaks.
Nourishing Hope, (formerly known as The Lakeview Pantry), delivers the equivalent of four million meals annually to Chicago's food insecure and provides mental wellness counseling and other social services, such as job and housing assistance. They welcome kids ages 9-15 to volunteer with a parent guardian. Kids ages 9-12 may be tasked with online market packing, home delivery prep and packing, or Saturday hub restock and clean. Kids age 13-17 may be involved in food distribution.
The mission of CJE SeniorLife is to enhance the quality of life and facilitate independence of older adults. Kids can volunteer alongside their parents at any age. They may volunteer unaccompanied starting at age 12. In fact, CJE offers B’nai Mitzvah opportunities. The main objective is to spread joy to the CJE residents, whether that be by sharing a talent, bringing in a therapy animal, helping with arts and crafts, or just sitting by their side. There are CJR communities in Deerfield, Evanston, Skokie, and Chicago.
LBFE's main objective is to relieve isolation and loneliness among the eldery. Children are welcomed to volunteer alongside their parents/guardians in visiting senior citizens and giving the gift of companionship. The holidays are a particularly good time to get involved as LBFE needs help in throwing holiday celebrations for its community. You may help in prepping for parties, cooking, attending, transporting seniors to parties, or bringing a piece of a party to the home-bound.
Kids starting at age 12 can volunteer at Lutheran Home to simply spend time with residents. This could mean reading with them, playing games, making a craft, or going for a walk. It may also include transporting them in their wheelchair or helping them with their shopping needs at the General Store. After completing an application and an interview with the Volunteer Manager, volunteer interests are matched with campus needs.
Meals on Wheels provides nutritious meals, safety checks, and human connection to home-bound seniors. Kids can accompany their parents while they drive around making food deliveries. Assigned routes are typically two hours long and include 8-10 stops. The Northern Illinois chapter also has families create greeting cards for seniors.
Cards for Hospitalized Kids delivers handmade cards to Children's Hospitals and Ronald McDonald houses all across the country. Kids of any age can create a card that will lift up the spirits of another child who has been hospitalized. General cards are delivered monthly, and of course, holiday cards are delivered for major holidays. This is the easiest way for a kid to show compassion for others. Chicago children in 7th grade and up can even volunteer to help with card-sorting and card-distribution operations in their Chicago office. These volunteer sessions occur twice a month on Saturday mornings.
Chicago Challenger League is a division of Little League for kids with physical or mental challenges. Volunteers act as "buddies" to the athletes (ages 4-18), helping them to run the bases or field the ball. It is a great way for kids to not only volunteer, but get outdoors, get some exercise, and make new friends too!
KEEN's mission is to "empower youth with disabilities and impact volunteer coaches through participation in free, non-competitive, one-on-one programs of physical activity and fun, supporting the overall health and well-being of all participants." High school students at least 15 years old can volunteer as a "Coach" at KEEN. Coaches are paired with one "athlete" with limited capabilities, and are responsible for assisting that athlete in whatever sport activity they choose. Coaches are given a detailed profile of their athlete's abilities with suggestions for how to best support them.
Volunteering in Chicago: Assist the Less Fortunate
American Red Cross
Your community doesn't have to have suffered a disaster for there to be opportunities to volunteer with the American Red Cross. High school students can get involved in service and educational projects that directly impact their school or community. It's a great way to develop skills in leadership and learn how to mobilize resources.
The aptly named Cradles to Crayons collects all sorts of items disadvantaged children desperately need. Donations are sorted and re-packaged for distribution at The Giving Factory®. This is where volunteering comes in. Kids age 5 and up can accompany their parents or guardians to The Giving Factory®and assist in the donation processing. The best part of volunteering for Cradles to Crayons is that you learn who the specific children you are helping are, and at the end of the day you get to know exactly how many local children and families you have impacted. What could be more rewarding than that? Teens in 9th-12th grade can join the Teen Leadership Corps., which is a structured leadership program where they may coordinate events and/or collection drives in additional to working in The Giving Factory®.
Habitat for Humanity exists in over 70 countries, with the goal of ensuring all citizens have access to safe and affordable housing through a number of different programs. There are volunteering opportunities for ages 5 to 40. Being able to impact lives in such a tangible and rewarding way can lead to a lifetime of community service.
1100 W. Cermak Rd., Ste. 404 Pilsen Online:habitat.org
Made By Mary
Made By Mary is a perfect example of how far-reaching and contagious small acts of kindness can be. Made By Mary was started by a woman and her two daughters to provide baked goods and handwritten messages to neighbors in need of comfort. Soon enough more volunteers joined in servicing the Mt. Prospect and Arlington Heights area by baking, and/or making cards, and helping with deliveries. It's work the whole family can do together.
A ministry project of Samaritan's Purse, Operation Christmas Child engages churches around the world to deliver shoe boxes filled with small gifts to children in need. Anyone, anywhere, can put together a shoe box that could include small toys, hygiene items, or school supplies. Instructions on how to pack a shoe box are listed on their website. A $10 donation is suggested to accompany each box to cover processing and shipping costs. Kids at least 13 years old can also assist at during National Collection Week (Nov 14-21) at the processing center in Aurora.
Share Our Spare was founded in 2011 by 10 local Chicago women determined to help families in need. They collect new and gently-used infant and toddler items from families with extra to “spare” and store them in their "Sharehouse." Volunteers, as young as 6 years old, help sort through the donations and assemble kits of items on Open Volunteer Days. Children can even add a personal note to the kits they assemble. Partner organizations visit the Sharehouse and select the kits they need for their communities and redistribute them.
Can you believe the United State Post Office has been responding to kids' letters to Santa since 1912? At first it was just employees, but in the 1940s the program opened up to the public and ever since thousands of kids each year have been receiving gifts from "Santa", many who may not have otherwise gotten any holiday gifts. Truly get into the holiday spirit by adopting letters to Santa. Together, the whole family can read through letters online, select the ones to adopt, and then shop for & ship an item (or items) on the letter writer's wish list. With younger kids, you can position it as "helping Santa".
The Anti-Cruelty Society is more than a pet adoption center. They also provide spay/neuter services, end of life services, micro-chipping, various low income services, and so many educational programs. The Kids Who Care program invites families, with kids ages 2 and up, to join on the first Saturday of the month from 10-11:30 am to help prepare snacks for the animals, create pet toys, or decorate adoption posters. The program teaches kids the basics of pet care and animal safety. The Youth Who Care program gives tweens (ages 10-12), the opportunity to work in the shelter with the animals. Kids of any age can be a Reading Buddy. The Reading Buddy program is a drop-in volunteer program where kids read aloud to the animals to help them relax in a busy shelter environment. The Anti-Cruelty Society also has a Teens Who Care program.
Teens ages 16 and older can bring in their own dogs to provide animal-assisted therapy to over 5,000 clients across Chicago, from hospital patients to veterans, and children with autism. If they do not have an eligible dog, they may volunteer on their own by helping with certification testing on Saturday mornings and weeknight evenings.
Equestrian Connection has helped thousands of special needs adults and children through equine-assisted and other therapies. Volunteers can begin at age 13 walking by the side of a horse and its rider providing added comfort and security. As volunteers become more acquainted with the facility and clients, they may grow their responsibilities.
PAWS Chicago is committed to providing any and all homeless animals with refuge. All the animals that come to PAWS Chicago are guaranteed life. Volunteers ages 12 and up may join with their parents in cleaning areas of the medical or adoption centers, assist with laundry and dishes, help socialize animals, and other special projects or administrative tasks.
The Treehouse Humane Society is a cageless shelter for homeless cats. While on-site volunteers must be 18 years old, children are encouraged to volunteer by crafting homemade toys and enrichment supplies.
Volunteers can learn some very useful skills while volunteering at The Recyclery Collective. Volunteers starting at age 11 can bring in their bikes and learn how to fix them. They can then help recycle donated bikes which are distributed to refugees, low income families, and the homeless. As volunteers become more experienced, they in turn teach newcomers bicycle mechanics.
Families can volunteer with The Forest Preserve District of Cook County by helping remove invasive plants or harvesting native seed on Ecological Stewardship Days, or by initiating a Litter Obliterators Group Cleanup. Tools, gloves, bags, onsite safety training, and supervision are provided where necessary. Families can even Adopt-A-Site. Have a favorite grove, river, or trail you visit often? You may adopt that site by committing to visiting the site eight times between April and November to clean litter. You can visit on your own schedule. What's really fun about it, is that once you have visited three time, you may have a sign installed recognizing your family as having adopted the site. The kids are sure to get a kick out of that!
Kids age 12 and up can become Centennial Volunteers with The Friends of the Chicago River. Spend time outdoors together while clearing the brush, and picking up litter alongside the Chicago and Calumet Rivers, ultimately leading to the improved ecological health of these two important river habitats.
Although volunteer hours are no longer a CPS high school graduation requirement, students should still keep track of their hours. Once verified by a school counselor, the hours will be added to their school records for use on college applications.
Get ready to be amazed by these indoor playgrounds for kids that have trampolines, monster slides, rock climbing, and more entertainment
The year-round sunshine in San Diego gives families the ability to spend time outdoors hiking the best trails in SoCal, exploring San Diego tide pools, and even catching some waves at our kid-friendly beaches (for those brave enough to withstand cold Pacific waters) along the coast. But sometimes, it’s nice to head indoors which is why we’ve rounded up the best indoor playgrounds San Diego has to offer throughout the county. Kids of all ages will love these wonderlands with features like animal slides, giant bounce houses, and wall-to-wall trampolines.
This one-stop-shop offers the ultimate workspace for working parents and a super cool play space for kids. The combination of an indoor entertainment experience for your kids while providing an office/workspace for you is a unique must-visit spot. Whether you need just a desk to work for a few hours, a place to meet a colleague or a simple change of scenery from your home office, Fandory Factory is a great solution. The kid-size indoor play town offers visitors of all ages the chance to play and use their imagination as they enjoy a shopping trip at the market house, cook a meal in the kitchen, or play on the slides of the treehouse.
16787 Bernardo Center Dr. Ste 7 San Diego Online:fandory.com
2. KidWonder
KidWonder is a kinetic learning academy looking to inspire kids through physical activity to find their passion and gain confidence. They're an indoor playground, the first American ninja warrior gym in San Diego, and they also have gymnastics classes, along with mom's day out events, pre-K prep, and more. In addition, they host birthday parties and have tons of activities for kids of all ages.
4735 Point Loma Ave. San Diego Online:kidwonder.us
3. The New Children's Museum
The New Children's Museum offers plenty of indoor play and fun. Don't miss one of our favorite installations—Teatro Piñata, a traveling theatre caravan. Behind its curtains, nothing is as it seems. This is the world of Teatro Piñata. In this immersive theatre installation, the caravan theatre is a portal to an expansive and surreal backstage world. Much like a piñata, what’s inside brings delight to children who crack it open. Discover a ticket booth with a secret tunnel, step up on stage and put on a show, dress up in colorful costumes in the backstage dressing rooms, play with shadow puppets, and more.
Kids will also love Whammock! It's a giant hammock they can climb and swing across.
Whether it's a giant slide or bounce house that your half-pints love, this is a great place to release that stored up energy. You'll have to be 34 inches to play, and you can find plenty of open days to fit your schedule. What's more, plan your next party here, and they do everything for you.
Shop and play! Head out to this indoor mall in North County San Diego where there's plenty to do. From great shops to a giant animal play area, little bunnies can have tons of fun. What's more, the play area is free. When done, head to the inside food court for a bite to eat. Choose from options like pizza, Chinese food, and a giant cinnamon roll for dessert. Before you head out, treat tots to a ride on the mall's indoor train.
Located at Grossmont Center Mall, The Playground is a little kid's version of indoor play heaven complete with ball pits, foam block pool, inflatables, trampolines, ride-on toys, basketball hoops, cars, and play centers including a grocery stand that encourage imaginative play.
Swing on over to My Gym Children's Fitness Center, Poway where you can explore their state-of-the-art facility and meet the staff while the kiddos play on the equipment and join in the revelry of music, dance, games, puppet shows, storytimes, gymnastics, and indoor play. My Gym offers structured classes for kids aged 6 weeks to 10 years old. Their classes incorporate circle time, dance, song, relay, games, gymnastics, puppet shows, and much more.
12222 Poway Rd., Suite 18-19 Poway Online:mygym.com
8. The Backyard at The Nat
The San Diego Natural History Museum's nature-inspired indoor play area called The Backyard is designed for kids five and younger. This serene setting gives little ones a chance to explore the natural world while parents sit back and observe. Tiny tots ages 0-2 will dig in the garden bed and have a safe, soft space to do tummy time and grasp a variety of textures. Ages 2-5 can do activities like dressing up like familiar animals and crawling on a giant ladybug. Kids can also pot flowers, read books, sort shapes, and solve puzzles.
Play City truly is a world of fun for kids ages 0-12. Featuring an indoor inflatable playground and massive play structures, this is the place to go to tire out those tots. Speaking of tots, Play City has a designated toddler zone, especially for ages 1-3 making it a choice spot as an indoor playground for toddlers. Add to that? A carpeted area just for babies 0-1. Parents will love that you can bring in your own food and enjoy lunch at the tables while your kids are in view on the play structures.
This indoor trampoline park is suitable for tots, tweens, and teens, but they do something really special for the six and under set three times a week. For two hours and an affordable price, first graders and younger can have a fun, safe time. The older tots and parents will love the two basketball hoops and the foam block pits. Don't miss the dodgeball arena, slam dunk zone, and vertical ops.
FUNbelievable will especially please parents with kids spaced multiple years apart. Crawlers and new walkers can claim the corner lot of this Lakeside play spot. A ball pit, a small blue slide, and soft crawl-on toys are encased by a perimeter of soft foam blocks. While FUNbelievable appeals to those 12 and under, the older set is thoroughly entertained by the neighboring play structure that includes taller slides and mazes.
Looking for an indoor playground near Escondido? This pirate ship and slide that's enclosed by a nautical-like gate is a choice spot. Kids can prepare play food in the ship's rear galley before venturing to the lot's backyard where bubble tables and a stage with foam blocks await. When they've grown hungry for snacks prepared by you, there are some picnic tables by the garden where they can fuel up before romping around the shaded archeological digging site.
Classes at Gymboree Play & Music are arranged by age for kids five and younger, so your little ones will experience age-appropriate activities with their peers. A class begins and ends with circle time and the middle is filled with themed activities that are played out with playground-like structures that were constructed specifically for infants and young toddlers. Young babies will get the thrill of possibly going down their first slide, early explorers will crawl through tunnels, and they'll be gently schooled on just how to interact with others their age.
Consider exploring Kid City on a Residents' Free Day, the first Tuesday of each month, when admission is on the house. The second floor five and under play area is smaller than others on this list, but it's enough to keep the younger set well entertained. A grocery store with a moving conveyer belt sits prominently in the middle and little shopping carts may be seen whizzing down the room's main street. Babies will gawk with wonder as their plastic ball gets sucked up by a tube and they'll eagerly watch as toddler learners watch their ball filter through wheels and various contraptions that carry them up, down, and around the wall.
Bounce it out! The dedicated kids' court makes this indoor trampoline spot a must-do for little tykes. Even more, there are plenty of activities for bigger kids––like trying the trapeze that lands in a foam pit. You can head to the main court for major bouncing action, joust on a beam, or try your skill at the rock climbing wall. Kids won't be able to get enough of this trampoline park.
It probably goes without saying that parents are always feeling proud of their kids for one reason or another, whether your son finished a difficult reading assignment or your daughter scored her first soccer goal. But just as important as their accomplishment is how you show your kids that feeling of pride. From words of advice to simple acts of kindness, here are 15 great ways parents can show their kids they are proud of them.
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1. Say "I'm proud of you." First and foremost, tell your kiddo you're proud of them when the time arises. You don't have to say this every day, but those words are encouragement are very meaningful to kids when they hear it from mom or dad.
2. Write them a note. Express pride by writing a little note or giving your little one a card or drawing that tells them you're proud of who they are as people or praises them for an accomplishment.
3. Talk about the obstacles. If your kid is struggling with an activity such as soccer or reading, offer support and recognize the obstacles he's facing. At the same time, express your pride that your kiddo is facing those challenges.
4. Share some cookies. Nothing says love and pride like homemade chocolate chip cookies. Bake a batch of cookies and offer one to your son or daughter for being a great kid. Not a baker? Treat your kiddo to a cookie at the bakery counter at the grocery store instead.
5. Say you're proud in front of others. It's one thing if you tell your daughter you're proud of her. It's another when she hears you saying it to grandma or grandpa. Tell others how proud you are when your kids do something worthy of praise.
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6. Don't forget the small stuff. Of course, parents are proud when their son scores a goal or accomplishes a major milestone. But don't forget to show pride and offer words of encouragement when your kiddo does something small, such as help to set the table or read a book to her younger sibling.
7. Read a book to your kid about how you feel. Express pride through a children's book or story. After you finish reading the book, explain to your little one that the pride you feel is just like what the characters in the book feel.
8. Do an activity together. Show your kids how proud you are of them by participating in a family activity together. If your kids have been working on improving their physical activity, sign the family up for a 1-mile fun run and explain that it's a family reward.
9. Hug them.Showing affection is always a good thing. A hug not only expresses love but can also show your little one you're proud of them too.
10. Praise your son/daughter for the things they're working on. Recognize the process itself is an accomplishment. Tell your son you're proud of his work on accomplishing the larger goal still being worked on.
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11. Go to the park, a movie or an outing. If you want something more than words of encouragement, look for an activity to do together as a way to express pride. A trip to the park, movie or museum is a great expression of pride.
12. Tell them you're grateful to be their parent. We're proud of our kids for what they do, but make sure your little one knows you're also proud to be their parent, too.
13. Say "I believe in you." You've told your kiddo you're proud, but what about telling them you also believe in them and have confidence in their choices. That's a point of pride in itself.
14. Praise your kid for the great choices they make. Tell your little ones why you're proud of them by explaining how they've made good choices. Hearing that and the words of encouragement will only motivate them to continue their positive behavior.
15. Give a small gift. You don't want to make it a habit of expressing pride through gift-giving. But perhaps there's a special circumstance when your kid has been working hard on accomplishing a goal. When she reaches the goal, give her a small gift and tell her how proud you are.
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16. Let your kiddo decide what's for dinner. Maybe you have a picky eater at home who just went an entire week eating her veggies. Express your pride in that accomplishment by letting her pick the Friday night dinner.
17. Say "thank you." It's often these words of encouragement and daily conversations with our little ones that the greatest impact. Expressing thanks is just one way to share words of encouragement and pride.
18. Point out the positive in a negative situation. So often, we get too focused on the negative situations that occur every day. For every negative instance, try focusing on something positive your kiddo did and tell him you're proud of that.
19. Don't forget to be proud if they own up to their mistakes. Your son may have accidentally broke an item at home, but he told you what happened. It's okay to be upset about the broken object, but make sure to tell your son you're proud that he told the truth. This will make future confessions easier.
20. Hang the accomplishment on the fridge. If you're proud your kiddo did well on an exam or drew a pretty picture, display it proudly on the refrigerator or bulletin board for family and friends to see.
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Your tot just keeps growing and is ready to hit big number three. In addition to their growing independence, three-year-olds are learning to play with their peers, can count and are generally learning through physical activity. That means gifts for your little’s third birthday are nothing but fun! From role-playing games to awesome art supplies, keep scrolling for great ideas on cool birthday gifts for kids turning three.
This article is sponsored by Vtech, the global leader in electronic learning toys for babies, infants, toddlers, and pre-k learning levels. Learn more information about Vtech here.
Give the best gift ever with the Level Up Gaming Chair™ from VTech®! Little gamers will love to play just like big kids with their very own gaming station including a chair that swivels, a joystick, pretend headphones and a cool interactive tablet that teaches letters numbers and more. Detach the tablet for on-the-go fun!
Sidewalk chalk just got tasty looking! This six-piece set includes four crinkle-cut fries and a two-piece burger in a glitter finish. Even better, TWEE will donate $2 to GLSEN, an organization that ensures that peope in every school community are valued and respected, with every purchase.
Even picky eaters love playing in the kitchen. This one comes complete with lights, sounds, an ice maker, and planter boxes so kids can at least grow their own vegetables.
It's a truck! It's a helicopter! It's a 67-piece kit with endless posibilites for curious minds. They'll love that there's a pull-back motor to make their creations move, you'll love that there are no batteries and that's compatible with other BRIO sets.
Your tiny animal lover gets a sweet plush and certificate of adoption; your donation that helps support WWF's global conservation efforts around the world
Learn from our past mistakes: summer seems far away, but it’s coming up fast. Which means it’s time to start thinking about and looking at camps, if that’s part of your plan for keeping the kids busy. Not only do camps fill up, but booking early can also get you some discounts on price. The good news is, no matter what your kid is into, there’s a camp for it in NYC. Soccer and ice skating, arts and movie making, rock exploration and rock band performances—whether your child has a creative soul or is a bundle of energy, you’re sure to find something to love in this list. We only wish we could sign up for all of them!
Not surprisingly, some of the camps to fill up first are the free or more affordable ones. Information for Summer 2022 is still forthcoming in most cases, but you can see an overview in our story on free and affordable camps here. (We'll be updating it as information becomes available.)
NYC also has yearly free STEM camp programs. Registration isn't open yet at the time of this writing, but keep an eye on this page for information.
New Country Day Camp
General Day Camp
YMCA
The YMCA is the quintessential NYC summer camp. If you're looking for a general camp that has a good mix of physical activity and personal expression, you'll probably find it at the Y. And with many locations around the city, you can find a spot that's convenient for you. Each location has different types of camps on offer, which generally have the same types of activities as a regular camp but with a heightened focus on a specific sport or activity, like swimming, sports, dance, robotics, and more.
Ages: Varies by location Locations: Many locations around NYC Camp dates: Jul 5-Aug 26 Fees (starting at): Varies by location Online:ymcanyc.org
Oasis Summer Day Camp
Oasis Day Camp
A classic summer day camp in the city, Oasis prides itself on its affordability. Oasis operates camps in Central Park, East Village, Bayside, Queens, Long Island and Westchester. Kids ages three to 15 enjoy sports, games, crafts, drama, and more for the bulk of the day outside (although there are indoor facilities as well).
Ages: 3-15 Locations: Central Park, East Village, Bayside, Long Island University, Dobbs Ferry Camp dates: 6/27-8/19 Fees (starting at): Varies by location. Central Park: $1470 (entering nursery - K); $1420 (entering grades 1-6) Online:oasischildren.com
Gantry Kids & Teens
Gantry Kids & Teens
Gantry Kids is a camp that focuses on physical activity and fun, hoping to heal minds through active bodies. Campers will get to ride scooters and bikes in many locations, play outdoors, do some gardening, go on field trips to more outdoorsy places like Governors Island, and generally spend fun time away from their screens.
Ages: 6-11 Locations: 10-19 46th Rd. (Long Island City) Camp dates: Jun 28-Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $580 per week Online:gantrykids.com
Steve and Kate's Camp
Steve & Kate's Camp
The camp experience at Steve and Kate's is entirely up to each individual child. Campers get to choose what they want to do from a huge range of activities including sewing, stop-motion animation, theater, crafts, and more. Mistakes are celebrated and trying new things is encouraged! You can buy day passes or a full month pass for 30+ days, and if you end up not using all the days you paid for you'll be automatically refunded, no strings attached.
Ages: 4-12 Locations: East Village, Cobble Hill, Chelsea, Upper East Side Camp dates: Jun 20-Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $119 per day or $3,570 for a full summer Online:steveandkatescamp.com
Camp Settoga
A day camp affiliated with the Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan, Camp Settoga operates on a lush 21-acre facility in Pamona, NY. (Kids are picked up by air-conditioned bus from areas throughout Manhattan, and it's about a 30-minute ride from the GW bridge.) It's a day camp with an overnight camp feel, with all the bells and whistles like pools, a rope course, elective activities, and more. New for the 2022 season are improvements like two new basketball courts, new tennis courts, a 12-hole mini-golf course and new amphitheater.
Ages: 4-12 Locations: Pomona, NY, with pickup from Chelsea, Upper West Side, Upper East Side, Harlem and elsewhere Camp dates: June 28-Aug. 18, with sessions 4-8 weeks Fees (starting at): $5,565 for four weeks and up Online:campsettoga.org
This Staten Island-based camp is a place where every child is nurtured and good friends are made. Campers are led by trained supervisors and staff through activities designed to build confidence and self-esteem. The campus is huge, and camp events include hikes, field trips, bowling, carnivals, and more. That's on top of everyday activities like swimming and water slides, various sports, yoga, fencing, a game and art space, and more.
In addition to the nature-centric camps below, the city has many opportunities for kids this summer! Check with your local garden, zoo or marine center/aquarium for special summer programs.
There's so much to explore all around us, and Trailblazers camp makes it their mission to help kids discover the wonder around them. Campers will discover their environment through science experiments, challenges and games, team-building exercises, nature walks, art, and music. Kids will have outside time every day — as their website states, "there is no such thing as bad weather, just inadequate clothes!" The camp is built around kids' creativity and allows exploration and curiosity to take center stage.
Ages: 4-10 Locations: Brooklyn Bridge, Prospect Park, Riverside Park, Morningside Park Camp dates: Jun 28-Aug 27, varies per location Fees (starting at): $560 Online:trailblazers.org
The Riverdale Stables horse riding camp is returning for 2022, though details are still tbd. The stables have an indoor ring, 85 stalls, and access to trails in Van Cortlandt Park. A recreation room is on standby in case of bad weather and for additional activities like games and arts and crafts. This camp is open to riders who can already walk and trot with a horse and all riders have to be evaluated to attend. If your child isn't quite there yet, the stables also have classes that can help them get up to speed before the camp.
Ages: tbd Locations: Van Cortlandt Park Camp dates: tbd Fees (starting at): tbd ($825 per week in 2021) Online:riverdalestables.com
Does your child dream of being a rock star? At this camp, kids for bands of 6 (or fewer) members then learn, rehearse, and perform together! Bands will work on improving their instrumental or vocal skills, and on collaborating with each other. Kids will have a chance to play cover songs and even write their own original works. There's an option to add a private lesson before camp for an additional fee.
Ages: 8-18 Locations: Music Makers NY at 260 W 36th St. (Midtown) Camp dates: Jun 20-Aug 19 Fees (starting at): $595 for 5 days Online:replaymusicstudios.com
Manhattan School of Music
Kids at this camp will experience the world of instrumental music in a professional setting. Instruction is available in classical music, musical composition, jazz singing, musical theater, and more. Trained teachers and professionals will help bring out kids' talents and improve their skills on their instruments, voice, or acting. Attendees will also get crucial skills training, like audition techniques, musical theory, and more. Camp culminates with a fully produced performance (including sets and costumes for the musical theater crowd).
The extended deadline for this camp was January 31 but late applications are still being considered. This program has a mandatory covid vaccination policy.
Ages: 8-17 Locations: 130 Claremont Ave. (Morningside Heights) Camp dates: Jul 5-29 for musical theater, Jul 11-29 for all other Fees (starting at): $2,940 for 3 weeks+$75 application fee Online:msmnyc.edu
NYC Guitar School
The NYC Guitar School summer camps are perfect for kids who are interested in making music and performing. Several options are available, including an intro camp for absolute beginners to guitar playing. The Rock Band camp is an intensive learning experience where kids will learn, practice, and perform for a live Facebook and YouTube audience. For a more in-depth experience, kids can spend two weeks working in a band, and get their songs professionally recorded at the end of all their hard work. If you prefer a remote option, the Guitar School is also hosting a virtual music production camp (for ages 12-17), which will teach teens how to record and produce their own work.
Ages: 8-17 Locations: Midtown and Astoria (Queens) Camp dates: 1 and 2 week sessions Jul 5-Aug 12 Fees (starting at): $400 for one week Online:nycguitarschool.com
Willie Mae Rock
Rock on with at the Willie Mae Rock Studio, where campers can try their hand at songwriting and guitar playing, as well as the electronics and software used in music-making. Each day will include activities designed to explore creativity and get hands-on with new experiences. Kids will also get to play different instruments, and create a finished work by the end of the session. This camp strives to empower girls, and is only open to girls and gender-expansive youth.
Ages: 10-17 Locations: 540 President Street, Suite 2H (Gowanus) Camp dates: Jul 11-22, two sessions Fees (starting at): $100 for a week, full and partial scholarships available Online:williemaerockcamp.org
Aviator Sports
General Sports Camps
Aviator Sports
Aviator Sports has a huge and impressive range of sports gyms and fields. Camp will take kids on an athletic adventure through gymnastics, parkour, ice skating, rock climbing, golf, swimming, soccer, pedal-carting, and more. Campers spend time outside and inside an air-conditioned space, and field trips are planned.
Ages: 4-15 Locations: Floyd Bennett Field 3159 Flatbush Ave. Camp dates: Jun 28-tbd Fees (starting at): $590 per week+$35 administration fee Online:aviatorsports.com
Kids in the Game
Kids in the Game
You can choose between general camp and sports + swim camp at Kids in the Game. Both focus on physical activity and physical and mental growth. At the sports + swim camp, campers will receive lessons through Physique Swimming and learn how to swim correctly from experts. Camp will utilize the indoor gym, outdoor basketball court, baseball fields, playground, and on-site pool for a well-rounded and active experience. Programs for the regular camp vary by location, but some perks include field trips to places like Governors Island and various museums, as well as themed camp weeks.
Ages: 4-13 Locations: Riverdale, Inwood, Upper East Side, Upper West Side, East Village, Greenpoint, and Park Slope Camp dates: Jun. 27-Aug. 19 Fees (starting at): $485 per week with full-summer registration; rate varies by location. Online:kidsinthegame.com
Chelsea Piers
Chelsea Piers
Chelsea Piers is well known for its sports programming, and for good reason. This summer, kids can take advantage of the professional facilities to take part in various athletic activities. The camp features gymnastics, basketball, parkour and ninja warrior, hockey, ice skating, golf, and so much more. Programs are available for a wide range of ages, and campers are sure to find a sport that they fall in love with over the course of the summer. Sport-specific camps are also available if your little athlete already knows what sport they want to pursue. "Elite" camps are also open for kids who are experienced and competitively engaging in certain sports.
Ages: 3-17 Locations: Chelsea Piers at Pier 62 (Chelsea) Camp dates: Jun 20-Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $515 per week Online:chelseapiers.com
Asphalt Green
Asphalt Green
If your child is interested in a sport, there's a good chance they'll find it at Asphalt Green. This impressively robust sports camp includes time in an outdoor field playing baseball, soccer, and football, as well as indoor sessions playing basketball, swimming, circus arts, tennis, and kickball. During downtime, campers will make arts and crafts, LEGO robotics, creative writing, and more.
Ages: 4.5-15 Locations: Upper East Side, Battery Park City Camp dates: Jun. 28-Aug 19 Fees (starting at): $5,900 for 4 weeks Online:asphaltgreen.org
Specialty Sports Camps
Advantage Tennis Club
Help your kids stay active this summer with a tennis camp! Kids are taken through drills, taught tennis playing skills, and spend plenty of time on the courts receiving expert instruction. In addition to tennis, games, and activities, afternoons are spent swimming.
Advantage Sports also has a general Day Camp if you'd rather not focus on tennis exclusively, which features sports, art, lessons, and field trips. Plus, early drop off and late pick up are available at no additional cost!
Ages: 7-17 for tennis, 4-14 for general day camp Locations: Manhattan Plaza Racquet Club, Roosevelt Island Racquet Club Camp dates: Jun 13-Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $595 per week Online:advantagetennisclubs.com
Homerun Baseball Camp
Run by passionate coaches, this camp introduces kids to baseball. Effort, passion, cooperation, and self-confidence are valued above doing well, though (of course) kids will also receive individualized instruction in how to play the sport well. Camp slots are limited this year in an effort to keep the group smaller, so register early to snag a spot.
Ages: 4-12 Locations: Parade Grounds in Prospect Park Camp dates: Jun 27-Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $500 per week (plus a 50% discount for siblings) Online:homerunbaseballcamp.com
Super Soccer Stars
Soccer Stars
At Super Soccer Stars, kids learn how to work together as they hone their soccer skills. Held at over 10 locations around the NYC metro area, this camp generally lasts three hours (though full-day camps are also available). Each child will be coached and allowed to learn at their own rate. In addition to soccer camps, a number of places are also offering soccer and art options, as well as multi-sport camps.
Ages: 2.5-16 Locations: Many locations around NYC (as well as Hamptons, Long Island, and Westchester) Camp dates: Jun 27-Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $330 per week Online:soccerstars.com
MMA New York City's Karate Camp
Martial arts is all about fitness and confidence, and kids will find both at the karate summer camp of Modern Martial Arts of NYC. Each day at camp, kids will receive training from an expert instructor and learn karate with an emphasis on safety and inner strength. Campers will also get a chance to try various padded weapons training, like Japanese sword-fighting, nunchucks, staff and stick-wielding, and more. There will be demonstrations for parents throughout the summer, to show off their progress. Besides being active, kids will also get a chance to let their creativity shine through arts and crafts projects like tie-dying, LEGO building, ninja mask making, and even lightsaber crafting. There are field trips planned as well, including various museums and attractions, and more.
Ages: 5-12 Locations: Upper East Side, Upper West Side, Tribeca, and Astoria Camp dates: Jun 27-Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $789 per week Online:mmanewyorkcity.com
The Movement Creative
Camps for Active Kids
The Movement Creative
Held entirely outdoors in and around Central Park, this is a good option for kids with tons of energy to burn. Campers will run, climb, and tumble around the park with close instruction from highly trained and experienced coaches, learning to move their bodies and improving their parkour skills with each step. Each week starts with the basics and adds steps one at a time to make it easy for anyone to learn the moves through progressions. If class can't be held outdoors for any reason (inclement weather, closures), it will take place online. Note that a N95/KN95 or surgical mark is required to attend camp — cloth masks, neck gaiters, or bandanas won't be accepted.
Ages: 7-18 Locations: Central Park (Colombus Circle entrance) Camp dates: Jul 5-Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $990 per week, lower prices available for those in need of financial aid Online:themovementcreative.com
Locals Surf School
Locals Surf School
Surf's up, dudes and dudettes, and your kids could be catching the waves or doing kick-flips this summer, with the help of Locals Surf School. Featuring a program that includes both surfing and skateboarding lessons, this summer camp is a good one for kids who love adventures and hitting the beach. You can be sure your child will get individualized attention: Classes are three kids to one instructor. This camp welcomes all skill levels, even if a child's never been surfing or skating before. All equipment is included in the fee, including surfboards, wetsuits, skateboards, and protective gear. Kids will also take part in games and learning exercises as part of their camp experience.
Ages: 5-15 Locations: Beach 91st St. Skatepark (Rockaway Beach) Camp dates: Jun 27-Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $885 per week Online:localssurfschool.com (sports) and localssurfschool.com (skate clinics)
Cooking Camps
Sur la Table
At Sur la Table, kids and teens will get expert instruction to become better chefs and gain confidence in the kitchen. Campers will engage in every part of the cooking process, from prep to plating. Days are themed, so one day kids might be kneading pizza dough for their pizzeria experience, and the next they'll be folding dumplings for their faux Chinese restaurant. Classes are 2-2.5 hours long and groups are split by age, 7-11 and 12-17. You can also check what's on the menu for each week before you make a choice — note that each program has its own menu, so menus are repeated a few times during the summer.
Ages: 7-17 Locations: 306 West 57th Street (Midtown) Camp dates: Jun 6-Aug 19 Fees (starting at): $249 per week Online:surlatable.com
Taste Buds Kitchen
This half-day (three hour) cooking camp is perfectly adapted for different ages. The youngest kids (4-8 years old) will learn how to mix, measure, and work safely through cooking stories and games, 9 to 13-year-olds will learn more advanced cooking techniques, hone knife skills, learn how to read recipes and use the burner safely, and clean up after themselves, and 13 to 17-year-olds will be treated to adult-level skills and recipes, advanced knife skills, food styling, and recipe creation. Regardless of age, all campers will make three recipes per day, featuring a mix of savory and sweet.
Kids over 10 can apply to become Counselors-in-Training and, if picked, can stay for a full day and get 20% off their session. You can sign your child up for a full week or per day. There are also online summer courses available with vegetarian recipes!
Ages: 4-17 Locations: 109 West 27th St. (Chelsea) Camp dates: Jun 27-Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $115 per day Online:tastebudskitchen.com
Art Camps
Greenwich House
This well-rounded camp features activities to engage small bodies and minds. With a focus on STEAM activities, Greenwich House will have kids drawing, painting, taking photos, making animations, and putting on plays. The camp will also engage creative minds through coding, architecture, science, and engineering projects, and get them moving through games, sports, and even cooking.
At this arts and crafts camp, kids are encouraged to explore different mediums and express themselves creatively and uniquely as only they can. Taking place in fully-equipped art studios, campers will learn skills like patience, collaboration, composition, and storytelling through many different art forms, including drawing and painting, stenciling, animation and cartooning, bookmaking, clay character creation, and many more. Camp sessions encourage self-expression and confidence in little creators of any level.
Ages: 5+ Locations: Cobble Hill, Long Island City, and Hoboken Camp dates: tbd Fees (starting at): $135 for a half day Online:playday.com
If your kids love to make things with their hands, they'll find a home at The Craft Salon. Here, kids can try their hand at drawing, sewing, clay, collage, weaving, macrame, and so much more. Group sizes are kept to a maximum of 10 kids, and covid vaccination proof is required to participate.
Ages: 8-13 Locations: 338 E 5th St #2B (Kengsington) Camp dates: Jun 28-Aug 26 Fees (starting at): $500 per week Online: thecraftsalonstudio.com
Plato Learning
Role Play, Gaming & Fantasy Camps
Camp Half-Blood
Camp Half-Blood is well known for its adventurous structure, using the power of imagination and role-play to learn and grow. Each camper becomes a Demigod and embarks on a quest to become a fully-fledged hero! Demigods will take on quests, train their (foam) sword-fighting skill, forge their own armor, battle magical monsters, and weave epic tales. Throughout their adventures, kids will learn about mythology and heroes of legend from different cultures like Odysseus, Beowulf Mulan, and Boudica. Most importantly, these emerging heroes will learn how to find the confidence inside to become real legends.
Ages: 2nd-5th grades Locations: Prospect Park, Central Park, Inwood Park, Alley Pond Park (Queens), Clove Lakes Park (Staten Island) Camp dates: Jun 13-Aug 19 Fees (starting at): $525 per week Online:camphalfbloodbklyn.com
Brooklyn Game Lab
Brooklyn Game Lab
This year, the Brooklyn Game Lab has two options: indoor and outdoor, or fully outdoor. The fully outdoor camp will have kids playing word games and taking part in physical activities using props like frisbees, hoops, cones, beanbags, and balls. Kids will also engage in mock adventures and "battles" using foam weapons and their imaginations.
The combination indoor and outdoor camp will also use tabletop games and board games to get kids thinking critically and strategically, as well as working together. Campers will also get a chance to discuss game design and craft their own games.
Ages: 6-13 Locations: Prospect Park Camp dates: Jun 27-Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $595 per week Online:brooklyngamelab.com
STEM Camps
Brooklyn Robot Foundry
Brooklyn Robot Foundry
Introduce kids to robotics at an early age at the Brooklyn Robot Foundry, where campers will build a themed robot (themes will be announced at a later date). No experience is necessary! The camp also includes games, crafts, and plenty of activities to get kids moving, including trips to the nearby park. Only kids 5-10 who are fully vaccinated can attend this camp, and online programs are also available for kids ages 6-12.
Ages: 5-10 Locations: 98 4th St. (Gowanus) Camp dates: Jun 28-Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $165 + $20 materials fee for single day, and $625 + $75 materials fee per week Online:brooklynrobotfoundry.com
Nory
Upon entering a Nory camp for the week, kids are given a quest. This might be a realistic one (how do you design a classroom that's easier to navigate for the blind?) or a more outlandish one (can you invent a robot that runs on "magic"?). Each camp week is then focused on learning about the topic, asking questions, and getting hands-on with various materials and skills from wiring RFID chips to woodworking. Mistakes are celebrated as steps toward success and students are encouraged to be inquisitive, resilient, and empathetic (Nory's three core values).
Ages: 3-12 Locations: Various locations around NYC Camp dates: Jun 27-Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $500 for half-day per week, $800 for full-day per week Online:nory.co
The Geek Forest's Summer of Steam
Does your child love Roblox or Minecraft? The Geek Forest will get them excited to design and code their own creations in the game world. Other programs get kids more hands-on with engineering and robotics through Battle Bots and LEGO. Besides these, the camp also has tabletop design and play lessons, explorations of webcomics, bookbinding, urban planning, and other awesome STEM topics to engage and educate.
Summer camp at Voxel Academy lets kids explore cutting-edge tech with expert instructors as they create a hands-on, inquiry-based learning experience. (And they get to take the project home with them.) Weekly camp topics include 3D printing, Minecraft and Roblox projects, VR, engineering and modding and more. Kids also take breaks and go outside, so they are not on screens all day. As of this writing, sessions are on sale.
Ages: 7- 14 Locations: 134 Atlantic Ave., Cobble Hill Camp dates: Jun. 27-Sept. 2 Fees (starting at): $775 and up Online:voxelacademy.org
Drama Camps
Cinema Kidz
Is your child a film director in the making? With this camp, they might just be. Cinema Kidz teaches kids about film and animation and sends them on a journey to make a film from start to finish. Campers are involved in the film-making process at every step of the way, from planning and storyboarding the idea, to filming, directing, and editing the film. Kids are encouraged to get hands-on with equipment and tech to learn through trying new things and even through making mistakes. Participants will leave the camp with filmmaking knowledge, as well as a finished project to share.
An online option is available, as well.
Ages: 5-15 Locations: Prospect Park, 202 W 97th St. (Upper West Side), Pine Street School (Lower Manhattan), BAM (Brooklyn), Camp dates: Jun 20-Aug 26 Fees (starting at): Inquire for price Online:cinemakidz.com
Treasure Trunk Theatre
The Treasure Trunk Theater is all about the joy of creating theater art. Campers will take part in dances and games, listen and sing along to music, and stretch their imagination as far as it can go. Kids will also learn theater skills and terms, and practice drama and theater arts every day in all its different forms. At the end of each day, photos and videos will be shared with parents so you can share the joy of your kids' performance. And it's fine if your kid isn't all that dramatic: Educators are skilled at helping these petite performers find confidence and celebrate their unique selves.
Ages: 3-8 Locations: Various locations, including Cadman Plaza Park, Prospect Park, Carroll Park, Fort Greene Park, and more Camp dates: Jun 6-Sep 9 Fees (starting at): $316 per week or $90 per class Online:treasuretrunktheatre.com
Hunter Canning
Child's Play
Let kids get their wiggles out by channeling them into characters on stage! Child's Play is a place where kids can hone their drama skills through performances. Guided by theater artists trained in early childhood education, kids get a chance to create stories and characters, make music videos, and play theater games. Each camp session ends with a movie that shows off all the work put together by the campers. Themes for the weeks include unicorns and dragons, circus adventures, superheroes, ocean adventures, and more.
Ages: 3-11 Locations: 193 Columbia St. (Cobble Hill) Camp dates: Aug 1-Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $400 per week Online:childsplayny.com
Play:ground NYC
Maker Camps
The Yard by Play:groundNYC
The Yard by Play:groundNYC is a truly self-guided, mixed-age experience. Kids have free reign in a junkyard full of tools, building materials, fine art and handcrafting materials. Campers of all ages can work together or separately, and each child can decide what to do with their time, whether they want to explore the hidden treasures in the Yard, make artworks and structures, or simply enjoy their time outdoors. Daily excursions will introduce children to other areas of Governors Island.
Ages: 1st-6th grades Locations: Governors Island Camp dates: Jun 20-Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $620 per week Online:play-ground.nyc
KoKo NYC
Miho Suzuki
KoKo NYC offers two camps. In the Soap Box Workshop, kids will plan, build, and test gravity racers using found objects and building materials. Once the vehicles are assembled, they'll take part in the South Slope Derby, racing down the street to the cheers of family, friends, and neighbors.
At the Mini Destroy + Construct camp, kids will use real tools to take apart old technology like printers and blenders to see how they work, They'll then design and build their own inventions and art based on what they learned from the "destroy" phase of the camp. The camp is specially designed for 5-7 year olds and is based in trust and safety, allowing kids to use real tools in a controlled and safe environment.
Ages: 5-7 Locations: South Slope, Gowanus Camp dates: Jun 20-Aug 26 Fees (starting at): $650 per week Online:kokonyc.org (Destroy + Construct) and kokonyc.org (Soap Box Workshop)
Language Immersion Camps
International School of Brooklyn
The ISB aims to fill children with a sense of wonder at the world around them, all while teaching Spanish and French through play and immersion. Groups of no more than 15 kids will be accompanied by 2-3 counselors and guided through exploration of various topics in the natural world all around them, from tiny tardigrades, bugs, and rodents, to mighty raptors, predators, and trees. Each week will focus on a different theme, and introduce STEM concepts and activities in your choice of language. The program accommodates children at all levels of French and Spanish mastery, helping beginners learn new vocabulary and honing the skills of more advanced speakers.
Ages: 4 years old through 5th grade Locations: 477 Court St. (Gowanus) Camp dates: Jul 5-Aug 5 Fees (starting at): $520 Online:isbrooklyn.org
French Institute: Alliance Française (FIAF)
The FIAF summer camp is inspired by the Tour de France, and will take campers on a journey through French language and culture. Guided by the world-famous bicycle race, kids of all language levels from complete beginners to native speakers will be introduced to the rhythms and sounds of the French language. Kids will learn about each area of the Tour de France, while also partaking in camp staples like games, movement activities, art, cooking, yoga and more. Older campers in their teens will receive age-appropriate instruction focusing on topics relevant to them, like fashion, wildlife, and the environment.
Online instruction is also available in the summer (for ages 1-20!), with lessons lasting 45-90 minutes.
Ages: 3-18 (online 1-20) Locations: 22 East 60th St. (Lennox Hill) Camp dates: Jun 20–Sep 2 Fees (starting at): $419 half-day per week, and $789 full-day per week Online:fiaf.org
Juguemos
Get the kiddos interested in Spanish culture and heritage at this camp, where instruction is done exclusively in Spanish for younger kids and in Spanish and English for older campers. Activities will center around nature, animals, food, music, art, and dancing, all drawing from Spanish-speaking countries around the world. Kids will engage with the outdoors through movement and exercise, nature exploration, structure play, and various workshops designed to develop various skills and improve confidence.
Ages: 2-6 Locations: Prospect Park at 3rd St. entrance Camp dates: Jun 27-tbd Fees (starting at): $720 per week (2 and 3 days a week options are also available) Online:juguemos.org
Collina Italiana
This thoroughly immersive program is serious about teaching kids Italian. In addition to entertaining games, music and dancing, campers will become acquainted with the language through vocabulary study, textbooks and workbooks, as well as flashcards and other educational activities. Every aspect of the program is designed to include Italian, including art, reading and writing, history, geography, and science. Outdoor play is also included at the nearby playground and Central Park (located only a few blocks away). Groups are limited to only six kids, so everyone will be sure to get the individualized attention they need.
An online option is available but it's only an hour-long in the mornings.
Ages: 3-10 Locations: 1556 Third Ave. at 87th St., Suite 602-603 (Carnegie Hill) Camp dates: Jun 20-Sep 1 Fees (starting at): $140 per 2 days at 2 hrs, full-day is $390 per 2 days, $80 per two days Online:collinaitaliana.com
Pusteblume NYC
This camp combines German and Spanish immersion with art, science, astronomy, marine biology, and more. Each week is themed around a different topic and campers will explore them in-depth. This year's lineup includes planning and carrying out science experiments, observing and analyzing the natural world, digging for dinosaur fossils and making dino puppets, and learning all about space (among other topics). You choose the instruction language, Spanish or German, when you sign your child(ren) up for camp.
Ages: 2-9 Locations: 244 West 14th St. (West Village) Camp dates: Jul 5-Aug 26 Fees (starting at): $476 Online:pusteblumenyc.org
CCBG NYC
At this camp, kids can learn the Chinese language while getting immersed in the culture. Campers will learn about Chinese mythology, fables and legends, and partake in cultural activities like Chinese chess, calligraphy and cooking. In addition, outdoor activities will be held like running, sports, and various field trips. Kids are split into groups of 4-5 per teacher, by their Mandarin skill level, then taught either mostly in Chinese (for lower levels) or completely in Chinese (for more advanced speakers).
An online option is available for a much lower price if you're interested but can't make it out to the camp locations.
Ages: 5-14 Locations: K-Town and Park Slope / Gowanus Camp dates: Jul 5-Aug 26 Fees (starting at): $675 per week, $70 per week for online option Online:ccbgnyc.com
Kibbutznik at Marks JCH
Get kids in touch with their Jewish roots at this Russian-language immersion Jewish summer camp. Days are full of interactive activities that introduce kids to Jewish and Russian culture through literature, media and art. The camp will also feature themed weeks, covering topics like fashion, Russian food, music, theater, science, Macciabah, and more. Swimming is also offered twice a week.
Ages: 3-8 Locations: Hannah Senesh Community Day School at 342 Smith St. (Carroll Gardens) Camp dates: Jun 28-Aug 12 Fees (starting at): $550 per week Online:jchparkslope.org
F stands for free this February! This weekend, the District is home to a number of family-friendly events au gratis and we’ve shared our favorites below. Grab your favorite red outfit and hit the rink for a free ice skating session or head to Woodlawn Manor Cultural Park for a hands-on educational lesson about the Underground Railroad. For some splurgy fun, check out Disney on Ice at Capital Arena. More best bets are below.
Disney on Ice: Let’s Celebrate!
The gangs all here! Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy and stars from Toy Story 4, Frozen, The Lion King, The Princess and the Frog, Tangled, Cinderella, The Little Mermaid, Beauty and the Beast, Aladdin, Snow White, Mulan, Finding Dory and Pinocchio make up this megastar event on ice. Fri.-Sun.Event details.
Hop to It! Bunny Story Time & Crafts
Head to Old Maryland Farm for a rabbit-themed family event. Guests will start off with a farm-related story followed by a craft that features their favorite furry friend from the book. And don’t miss the meet–and-greet with bunnies before you leave. Sat. Event details.
Robotics Workshop
Learn about building and programming robots with a local, award-winning Vex IQ Robotics Team. This workshop, geared towards kids 8-13, is the perfect intro to the world of robots and requires no prior experience. Sat.Event details.
Black History Month Family Day
Bring the whole family for a self-guided exploration of Montgomery County’s Black history at Woodlawn Manor Cultural Park. Drop by the Visitor Center to pick up take-home activities (for ages 5-12) and trail maps to explore the Underground Railroad Experience Trail on your own. This is a great opportunity to connect, learn, and get exercise as a family. Sat.Event details.
Free Open Ice Skating
Grab your skates and hit the ice for some physical activity that is sure to warm your heart! Wear red to receive one free open skate session general admission and skate rental at Herbert Wells Ice Rink in College Park, MD. Sat.Event details.
Puppet Friends in Storyland
Enjoy a nature-filled story time with Owen Otter and Randy the Raccoon. Post puppet show, a naturalist will lead you through a nature-themed craft! Your little ones will play, laugh, and dance with their puppet pals while they work on social skills, early literacy development, listening, communication, fine motor skills, attention span, and creativity. Fri.Event details.
I share a lot online. I have an active Twitter account and tweet about my day-to-day shenanigans as a mom, wife, and startup CEO. I blogged through my husband’s battle with cancer last year, sharing the raw emotions from his diagnosis all the way through his treatment. But of all the things I’ve shared online, there’s been one thing I haven’t.
Around five weeks after my pregnancy, I was officially diagnosed with severe postpartum depression. I’ve told some people about it before, but I haven’t ever gone into detail about what happened to me. Like many moms, I was ashamed.
Depending on the person, the manifestation of the disease can be different. I never had thoughts of harming my daughter, but I had frequent thoughts of harming myself. I had convinced myself that I was absolutely unfit to be a mother and that the only way to make the situation “right” for my daughter would be if I took my own life so that others who were more fit to raise her would step up. I knew that no one would believe I was unfit to be a mother if I was living, so therefore, I had to be dead. I firmly believed that it was the only way out.
In retrospect, it was the perfect storm of events that led to my depression spiraling out of control. A day after my daughter was sent home with us, we found ourselves back in the NICU because of an episode where she lost consciousness. While she was in the NICU, I also moved back into the hospital so I could be close to her. I stayed in a tiny hospital room where I was on call to breastfeed her. I couldn’t leave to even get food or shower, because as soon as one breastfeeding session finished, I would pump to increase my supply, and then it was time to breastfeed her again.
When we finally took her home, she was healthy, but I was mentally and physically depleted. I was still recovering from giving birth, but I hadn’t really slept, eaten, or given my body any time to heal.
The suicidal thoughts that started forming in the hospital really came to a head once we all got home for good. I remember late one night I was cleaning my breast pump parts and I thought that I should kill myself at that moment because everyone was asleep. But I was too tired. Honestly, the sheer exhaustion was the only thing that saved my life those first few weeks.
For each person, how you get better is different. Serious postpartum depression is almost always best treated with professional help, but sometimes getting the help you need is the hardest and most daunting part.
For me, there were two things that were really vital to my recovery. First, I talked to other parents and heard what I was experiencing was normal. This helped me admit to my doctor that I had a problem and put me on the road to recovery. Second, I forced myself to get out of the house, with and without my daughter. This helped me feel like a human again and just the sheer physical activity of going places with my daughter helped me return to health.
If you would have told me 1.5 years ago that today I’d be happier than I’ve ever been, I wouldn’t have believed you. I want other mothers who are struggling with postpartum depression to know that it does get better. Today I have a healthy, beautiful, happy toddler and I wake up every day thankful that she’s in my life. While I still find parenting challenging at times, I no longer feel that challenge is insurmountable. I also now run my own company, Winnie, with the express goal of making parents’ lives easier. I would have never had the idea for this company had I not become a parent.
I never thought I’d say this, but I love being a mom. Moms, you are not alone. Postpartum depression is a real disease, but the good news is it can be cured. I’m living proof.
Short mom to tall kids. CEO and co-founder of Winnie, a leading marketplace for daycare and preschool helping millions of parents across the United States. Still getting the gist of this whole parenting thing.
There’s a lot of great things about living in Chicago (the people, the sports teams, the hot dogs, the best pizza in the world) but let’s face it, the winters leave a bit to be desired. Cue Four Lakes Alpine Snowsports in Lisle for some much-needed winter fun for the whole family just 45 minutes west of Chicago. From ski and snowboard lessons for beginners of all ages to a challenging terrain park for the most adventurous of boarders, Four Lakes is the close-by cure for your winter blues.
The Basics
Maria Chambers
Four Lakes has been turning ordinary flatlanders into bona fide skiers and boarders through its Ski and Snowboard School programs for sixty years. A member of the Professional Ski Instructors of America, Four Lakes’ teaching methods are up-to-the-minute, reflecting the latest technical understanding and methodologies. Their experienced instructors make learning how to ski and board fun and safe, so you can rest assured that you and your mini snow carvers are in good hands.
Why It's Great for Budding Boarders and Skiers
Four Lakes is a great starter hill for kids with a budding interest in snow play. The facility itself is very small and is perfect when you're just looking for a couple hours of exhilarating fun, but aren't necessarily wanting to make a weekend of it. The hill little ones learn on is small, but not so small they get bored quickly. It'll take a couple of tries to master, but the tow rope makes getting to the top easy-peasy. Best of all, there's ample parking right at the entrance of the hill, so no lugging equipment (or tired skiers) too far.
Insider tip: If you're planning on hitting the hill regularly, we'd recommend investing in a pair of gloves with grippers on the palms. It helps little hands grip the tow rope and protects the gloves from tearing.
Have a budding Bode Miller or mini-Lindsey Vonn on your hands? Four Lakes offers lessons for all ages and skill levels, both for skis and snowboarding. For the 2021-22 season, these lessons will be private or semi-private to reduce contact students have with each other on the hill. One-on-one private lessons are $60/hour. Semi-private lessons will be limited to 2-5 students per class and run $35/hour. Both private and semi-private lessons are typically available 7 days a week.
Small, but Mighty
Four Lakes isn’t just for beginners. It's a great place to brush up on your skills before that vacation to Vermont or Vail. The entire area is open to skiers and snowboarders of any level, and they also offer race training for skiers and a terrain park with a variety of boxes, rails and pipes. Whatever your level of experience, Four Lakes can accommodate. Just ask any one of the 20,000 skiers and boarders who visited last season.
Day and Season Passes
You can purchase a season pass for $325 and rip it up on the pow pow (translation: ski or snowboard) from mid-December until the season’s over—usually late February or early March. Can’t commit to the whole season? Buy a daily pass when you get the itch—those range from $24-$30, depending on the day.
Birthday Parties
During non-COVID times, Four Lakes is a great place to throw a winter birthday party. The kids will enjoy getting outside in the fresh air for physical activity and you'll enjoy not having 15 kids in your home. Choose a package that includes slope tickets, lessons and rentals or any combination of the three. Pizza and unlimited soda are an additional fee, and they’ll block out a section of the cafeteria for your celebration.
‘Tis the season, so bundle up, grab your brain buckets (translation: helmets) and head to Four Lakes for outdoor fun this winter. Be sure to check their website to make sure the hills are open.
Create a winter fun-derland for your kids with these winter-friendly ideas. From outdoor activities like making frozen bubbles to indoor fun with seasonal sensory-play ideas and craft-making (including DIY ideas for Valentine’s Day!), you’ll be inspired with activities until spring.
25 Things to Do with Kids This Winter
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If you're juggling babies and older sibs (not literally, of course), keep this list of activities handy when you're all getting stir-crazy. There are recipes, crafts, games, books and more!
Winter days may be shorter, but they sure can feel long. When cabin fever sets in and you’re looking to get crafty with baby or want a few outdoor ideas, this list has you covered. Check out these winter-themed activities that will entertain and engage your little snow bunny.
The cure for winter woes? Add physical activity to your daily routine. And, yep, baby’s invited, too. Try these awesome ways to get active during the cold months, from body-toning babywearing to serene winter walks.
From snow bins to foamy snow play, there are cool (and safe) ways to let babies and toddlers in on the frozen fun. Finding your favorite sensory activity will be easy. It’s keeping yourself from humming “Do you want to build a snowman?” that might be tough!
Even if you're dreading going outside, there’s lots that you and your little one can do to fight cabin fever and explore the outdoors. Here you’ll find nine of our favorite snow-day activities for babies and young toddlers.
Your baby is constantly soaking up information and learning new things about the world through taste, sight, touch, smell and sound. We’ve rounded up a bunch of hands-on activities that will engage one or more of the five senses, and chances are playtime is about to get a lot more exciting.
Not only is sensory play critical for kids' developing brains, it can be deeply rewarding for you to watch quietly as your baby discovers new textures, learns about cause and effect, and figures out what makes the world go round.
Create valentines, home decor and keepsakes with your baby with these easy techniques. From easy-to-grasp veggie stamps to footprint projects Grandma will swoon over, you’ll love re-creating these V-Day ideas.
