“Fore!” is NOT a word you want to hear in your living room so before you do, take the family out for a round of miniature golf! Appropriate for all ages, mini golf lets your toddler or teen practice their swings and have fun while doing so. We’ve compiled a list of the top eighteen holes in the Bay Area ready and waiting to welcome you to the greens.
Editor’s note: Due to COVID-19, many protocols have changed and indoor mini golf spots have new requirements for play. Please check their websites or call for the most up-to-date information.
San Francisco
Stagecoach Greens
Channel your inner explorer at San Francisco’s only outdoor mini golf course located in SOMA. Inspired by the Gold Rush era, you're sure to feel the Old West vibe and children will love pushing the buttons for mini history lessons. Pro Tip: Hungry? There are food trucks just across the street. Read our full review here.
1379 4th Street, San Francisco Cost: $19/adult; $13/kids 12 & under Online: stagecoachgreens.com
COVID-19 Update: Must reserve a spot in advance. Masks are optional.
Subpar
Laura Green
This indoor golf course is located in Ghirardelli Square. Families can not only enjoy a round of 18 holes but also grab an ice cream sundae in the nearby Ghirardelli store. Pro Tip: Reservations are required for weekends and holidays ONLY.
900 North Point, San Francisco (look for signs) Cost: $12 for all ages Online: subparminigolf.com
COVID-19 Update: Masks are optional for the course and arcade. The Ghirardelli Store is open, but not handing out free samples. They ARE still serving up sundaes and offer indoor seating.
Urban Putt
Urban Putt, SF’s first indoor golf course in the Mission District is calling you back to the green. Your family will love this 14-hole course layout with a view of the Transamerica Building in the center of the fun. Pro Tip: It’s adults only after 8 p.m. (no kids allowed). Read our full review here.
1096 South Van Ness, San Francisco Cost: $14/adult; $10/kids 6-12; free for ages 5 & under Online: urbanputt.com
COVID-19 Update: Reservations provide entrance into Urban Putt but once inside, tables and mini-golf are first-come first serve.
East Bay
Golden Tee Golfland
Golden Tee Golfland
Whether it's colorful dragons or checkered windmills you're seeking, Golden Tee Golfland is on par. It features two unique mini golf courses in a lush, beautifully landscaped environment. Pro Tip: This location also has an arcade with all the latest games.
2533 Castro Valley Blvd., Castro Valley Cost: $12/adult; $11 kids 4-11; free for 3 & under Online: golfland.com
COVID-19 Update: It’s business as usual here. Masks are optional for all those ready to perfect their golf swing.
Putters Putt Putt
This unique and colorful outdoor course boasts 21 holes in Walnut Creek with misters to keep you cool as your family tests their swings. Pack a lunch for a picnic in nearby Alma Park to complete the outing!
1275 South California Boulevard, Walnut Creek Cost: $10 for all ages Online:puttersputtputt.com
COVID-19 Update: Come as you are and ready to play!
Peninsula and South Bay
Golfland USA
istock
Families can set off on a royal quest or mini safari at Golfland USA in Sunnyvale. It offers two challenging courses as well as great rates and package deals for all occasions, including birthdays. Pro Tip: Stop by the Iceberg Drive-In for yummy shakes and swirled ice-cream delights on your way in, out, or even both!
855 E. El Camino Rd, Sunnyvale Cost: $14/adult; $12/kids 4-11; free for kids 3 & under Online: golfland.com
COVID-19 Update: Buy tickets in advance to beat the rush. Masks are optional.
Emerald Hills Golfland
Offering two unique golf courses AND waterslides, Emerald Hills Golfland caters to everyone! When the kids are ready for a break from their golf swings, they can make a splash spiraling down a slide of fun. Pro Tip: Don’t forget to stop by the snack bar for a delectable treat.
976 Blossom Hill Road, San Jose
Cost: $13/adults; $12/kids 5-11; free for children 4 & under (golf prices only) Online: golfland.com
COVID-19 Update: Masks are optional. Be sure to get tickets in advance to ensure tee time.
Marin County and North Bay
McInnis Golf Course
istock
This scenic course is one to keep an eye out for. Your kids will love the lavish gardens and variety of the 18-holes tucked away at McInnis Park Golf Center of San Rafael. Pro Tip: Be sure to bring sunscreen and take a swing at the batting cages.
350 Smith Ranch Road, San Rafael Cost: $11/adult; $9/kids 5-11; free for kids 5 & under
COVID-19 Update: It's business as usual here. Mask Requirement: None
Scandia Family Fun Center
Jennifer Snyder
Road trip? Trek up to Rohnert Park to experience this sweet little golf course offering 18 holes, an arcade, a few amusements rides and a batting cage. Pro Tip: Amy’s Drive Thru Kitchen is close by for some healthy fare.
5301 Redwood Drive, Rohnert Park Cost: $11/adult; $8/kids 6-10; free for kids 5 & under (golf prices only) Online: scandiafunland.com
COVID-19 Update: No reservation needed just come and putt away. Batting cages and amusement rides are open. Masks are optional while enjoying the family fun.
With California slowly beginning to reopen, theme parks are getting in on the action. LEGOLAND is ready to play!
The brick-themed park has announced its opening date, and Apr. 1 is kicking off the fun. You’ll be able to cash in on Park Preview Days that will include select rides, dining, retail, live entertainment and building activities.
photo: LEGOLAND
So what rides can you expect to hop aboard? From Apr. 1, you can enjoy Coastersaurus, LEGO® TECHNIC™ Coaster, Driving School, Jr. Driving School, Skipper School, Royal Joust, Fairy Tale Brook, LEGOLAND Express Train, Lost Kingdom Adventure and Cargo Ace. You’ll also get to have fun with all the outdoor playgrounds and Miniland U.S.A.
Beginning, Apr. 15, the full reopening will commence. The remaining rides will open in addition to LEGO® CHIMA™ Water Park, SEA LIFE® Aquarium and select dining, retail, and indoor attractions available with advanced reservation.
LEGOLAND is offering priority access during April for LEGOLAND Hotel Guests, active Pass Holders (Play Pass, Annual Pass and Monthly Pay Memberships) and existing Day Ticket Holders for expired and unused during closures.
No, it’s not déjà vu. It’s the second wave of re-openings for our favorite museums and other kid-friendly hot spots. We’ve got the details you need to plan your adventure for the first time… again, whether you want to count one fish, two fish at the Aquarium, rock like Hendrix at MoPOP or play like a kid (who can resist!) at KidsQuest. Here’s what you need to know.
Local history buffs can rejoice, because MOHAI is opening its doors once again starting April 2, 2021. Families can visit Thursdays through Mondays, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
Families can expect the same safety measures here that they'll find at other area attractions. Masks will be required for anyone over the age of two and timed tickets are your green light to visit the exhibits. You'll find lots of hand sanitizing stations around, but you won't find the typical coat or bag check. Instead, families can reserve a locker when they visit. While you're there, stop by the newest exhibit in the museum—Stand Up Seattle: The Democracy Project. It's an in-depth look at the power of self government, and the museum curators hope it inspires visitors to "take action now to create the change they want to see."
Good to know: You can find prepacked snacks and drinks to-go (as well as locally made masks) at the MOHAI Mercantile any time the museum is open.
860 Terry Ave. N. Seattle, WA 206-324-1126 Event details
Explore the history of the Asian Pacific American experience when you bring the family to Wing Luke. Now open visitors are welcome to explore the museum Fridays through Sundays, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.
As always, visitors will need tickets to visit the museum, and families are encouraged to purchase them online to limit contact as much as possible. They're valid any time the museum is open and don't expire. Masks, social distancing and group size guidelines will be in place for visitors. And in addition to seeing great new exhibits like Guilty Party and Where Beauty Lies, families can check out the live, virtual historic hotel tour as a perk.
719 S. King St. Seattle, WA 206-623-5124 Online:wingluke.org
MoPOP
courtesy MoPOP
We know Seattle families love to rock the weekend, and now yours can rock harder because MoPOP is open again, Fridays through Sundays, from 10 a.m.-6 p.m. For the record, here's what you need to know...
Like many other museums, MoPOP will be reducing capacity and using timed tickets; electrostatic cleaning is another bonus here. Everyone over the age of three will need to rock a mask when visiting, and families will get a personal stylus to use on exhibits with touch screen surfaces—a total bonus for kids who want to touch everything. Most the museum’s exhibits will be open with a few exceptions (parents, take note, the Sound Lab is closed), so your kids can still marvel at the Minecraft exhibit, while you wander through Pearl Jam, Nirvana and Hendrix memorabilia.
325 5th Ave. N. Seattle, WA 206-770-2700 Online: mopop.org
The Burke Museum
Andrea Godinez/Burke Museum
The Burke Museum's doors are open again. Bring your natural history buffs to visit on Tuesdays through Sundays, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., or for free on the first Thursday of each month when the museum stays open until 8 p.m. Here's the low down...
Timed tickets will help reduce crowds and allow visitors to socially distance with ease. If you’re over the age of two, bring your favorite mask to wear, and visitors should also plan to give a bit of info to help with contract tracing when you purchase your online tickets (families can opt out if they choose). You’ll find hand sanitizer at key locations in the museum, and one-way traffic in galleries, too. Check out the new exhibit Cruisin' the Fossil Coastline during your visit or from the comfort of home.
Good to know: When it comes to food, families can take a seat in the Cascade Room or take it outside to the terraced steps for some fresh air. Off the Rez Café will be open with eat-in and to-go options and limited seating both inside and on the outdoor patio in case fry bread tacos sound tempting.
4300 15th Ave. N.E. Seattle, WA 206-543-7907 Online:burkemuseum.org
Seattle Aquarium
Seattle Aquarium
It's time to bring your little fish to the Seattle Aquarium again. The staff is welcoming visitors seven days a week, from 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m. Can't wait to spy you favorite sea creatures again? Here's what you need to know...
The Aquarium will be using timed tickets for guests and operating at 15% capacity, so you'll have plenty of space when you're there. Plus, a new bipolar ionization air handling system and open-air flow are part of the aquarium's enhanced cleaning protocols. Masks are a must for anyone over the age of five and recommended for kids ages 3-4 too. If the kids get hungry, sit down to eat a snack in a designated area, or grab one from the aquarium cafe. It will be open Thursdays through Sundays only, from 9:30 a.m.-4 p.m.
Good to know: Save on parking when you park at the Pike Place Market garage. Just ask for a voucher at Guest Services and you'll get three hours of free parking.
The Bellevue Arts Museum is back with all the art you love and enhanced cleaning protocols so families can visit safely. The museum is now open Fridays through Sundays, 11 a.m.-5 p.m. Let us paint you a picture…
Like all other venues, families will need to reserve timed tickets. Then, arrive five to 10 minutes before your ticket window. You can also expect the usual suspects, masks, extra sanitizing stations, one-way paths and plenty of space to socially distance. The coat check here will stay closed, as will upstairs bathrooms, so have the kids go before you start exploring. They’ll also be collecting contact tracing information for visitors. Galleries will be open for all to enjoy, but many of the interactive elements kids love won’t be. All weekend family craft sessions are still on hold.
510 Bellevue Way N.E. Bellevue, WA 425-519-0770 Online:bellevuearts.org
Who else is ready to play again? KidsQuest Children’s Museum re-opens on February 17, 2021, and will be open four days a week, Wednesdays through Saturdays, from 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. Here’s what you need to plan a play date with your kids.
Timed tickets and limited numbers are at the forefront of the safety plan here. Guests will be allowed to reserve playtime in two-hour slots, with a 45-minute reset in between each wave. When you arrive at the museum, you’ll pass through a Safe Entry checkpoint that will include a temp check, symptom screening and a hand washing station. As usual, masks must be worn by anyone three and up. Restrooms will be open (and cleaned with an electrostatic sprayer throughout the day), but food and drink won’t be allowed, other than water bottles that can be refilled at the drinking fountains.
February 18, 2021 marks the day visitors can view exhibits at the National Nordic Museum again. Enjoy all the museum has to offer Thursdays through Sundays, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Here’s the breakdown...
Reserved tickets will help reduce crowding and make social distancing easier for museum visitors, and they’ll be operating at reduced capacity. Masks are a must for anyone age two and older, and visitors will be asked to “go with the flow” throughout the galleries, so look for the signs. The museum’s coat check will remain closed, and although large bags are not allowed, diaper bags always are.
Museum staff have worked to extend the La Vaughn Belle: A History of Unruly Returns and the Edvard Munch photography exhibit, The Experimental Self, through mid-April. If you and the kids live the ski-hard-or-die lifestyle, you'll want to check out Sublime Sights: Ski Jumping and Nordic America that opens on April 17 and runs through mid-summer.
2655 N.W. Market St. Seattle, WA 206-789-5708 Event details
The Museum of Flight
Alaina Weimer
The Museum of Flight is “cleared for takeoff” and ready to welcome visitors once again. Starting March 4, 2021 the museum will be open Thursdays through Sundays, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. Families can get tickets starting February 22.
The museum will operate at 25% capacity and will used timed tickets to reduce crowding. All visitors over the age of five will be required to wear a mask, and you’ll find social distancing reminders and additional hand sanitizing stations throughout the museum. Visitors should also expect a “brief, contactless health screening” before being allowed to take flight. All five buildings, plus the open-air Aviation Pavilion and Vietnam Veterans Memorial Park will be open to visitors. The Boeing 747 and 787 Dreamliner are included in these re-opened perks.
Good to know: Families should keep in mind that easy go-to spots like the Flight Zone, Aviation Pavilion Kidport and Alaska Airlines Aerospace Education Center remain closed, as does the Café.
9404 E. Marginal Way Seattle, WA 206-764-5700 Event details
Seattle Art Museum
Benjamin Benschneider
The doors at SAM are opening again March 5, 2021, and families can get tickets starting February 18. Here’s what you need to know.
Just like last time, the museum will be open Fridays through Sundays, from 10 a.m.-5 p.m., and families will need to reserve timed tickets to visit. There will be a quick health screening before you enter, and masks are needed for any aspiring artists over the age of two. We're especially excited for the upcoming exhibit, Jacob Lawrence: The American Struggle that opens the same day the museum does.
Good to know: Kid-friendly spots like the children's play areas, TASTE Café, Ann P. Wyckoff Education Resource Center and Bullitt Library will be closed for the time being.
1300 1st Ave. Seattle, WA 206-654-3100 Event details
Good to know: Imagine Children’s Museum has plans to re-open Jun. 1, 2021.
As a mom, it can feel daunting. I’ve seen it so many times. That nervous look in a mother’s eye as the family photo session she planned for weeks begins to go off track when her little one melts down.
As a long-time San Diego family photographer, I know it well. It’s usually a mix of frustration and embarrassment. You have a lot of time and money invested in this experience. You carefully planned your family’s outfits, convinced your less than enthusiastic spouse to join, picked the perfect location, and possibly bribed your children. When they start acting up, you might be the one who wants to cry! It definitely doesn’t have to be this way. I’m here to make your family photography experience enjoyable right from the beginning. Here are 5 tips to keep in mind as you prepare for your session.
1. Let Them Be Kids!
As a mom of six and a family photographer for over 10 years I have seen it all. Super shy kids, hyper kids, kids who literally want nothing to do with my camera. Guess what? I can almost guarantee we will still get images that make your heart skip a beat. There is nothing your child can do that will surprise me. Don’t feel embarrassed for even a second. I’ve been at this a long time. I have plenty of tricks up my sleeve to get even the most hesitant child to open up a little. I’ve got you mama! As you prepare for family photos, remember your kids have minds of their own. Especially toddlers. If something I’m doing in a session isn’t working, that’s totally ok! We can switch gears immediately. I keep things very light-hearted and move quickly to keep a young child engaged.
2. Relax.
Kids feed off your mood. Therefore, take a deep breath and relax! I know getting everyone ready is stressful, but try your best to stay as calm as possible. Positive reinforcement works way better than negative consequences. Threats of discipline can send a session spiraling out of control, especially with super little ones with no impulse control. I know it’s frustrating, but I will help you through it. Set yourself up for success by talking about the session ahead of time in a fun manner. Say something like, “We’re going to the beach with Tristan today. She loves to chase you around, makes silly faces, and tells silly jokes. She’ll be taking our pictures and maybe she will let you try!” Once a session begins, the best thing you can do to help is to have fun and snuggle up with your kids.
3. Let Me Take the Lead.
You know your child better than anyone else. You know what makes them nervous, laugh, or gets them out of a bad mood. In this instance, you can just sit back and try to relax. As an experienced mom and photographer, I can usually get almost all of my young clients to let loose and have fun. You might feel like you need to stand behind me and tell your kids to “smile” or “look at the camera.” This is not the case when you’re working with a professional family photographer. My job is to capture real emotion and genuine smiles. The goal isn’t to “make” them smile. It’s my job is to get them to capture the natural toothless grins and belly laughs. Your job is to take a breath and soak in the moment. Parents rarely have the opportunity to simply relax and stare at their incredible little people. This is that moment. Enjoy every second of it!
Sometimes it’s helpful to show them a picture of the photographer in advance when talking about the upcoming session. Check out their Instagram profile or website about section. This will help them see we are a friend. A quick zoom call or video text introducing myself helps my clients as well! That can definitely help make timid kids feel a little more connected from the start.
4. Plan in Advance. By far, the easiest way to prepare for a family photography session is to give yourself plenty of time to get ready. You want to eat before your session and have a snack and/or water for your kids on location. In addition, make sure your children are rested and pack everything you need well in advance. Give your outfits a test run in the days prior to your session. If something feels uncomfortable, choose something else. Stress increases when you feel rushed. This can result in a cranky family. Give yourself extra time to get dressed, load the car, and drive to the session. The goal is to minimize any crazy, rushed feelings. They will totally feed off of you. If you are as cool as a cucumber, it will make things even smoother for them.
5. Get your Partner on Board.
It was mentioned earlier that your mood can set the tone for the session. Your partner’s mood matters too. Kids will notice if their parents aren’t excited about the session. I know most people don’t exactly jump for joy at the prospect of having their photo taken. So, talk with your spouse and ask them to put their game face on. My sessions are all about capturing genuine emotion, authentic connection, and real smiles. My job is to capture the real you. Get ready to play, laugh, relax. Just be yourself!
Even if I am not your photographer, these tips would set you out on the right foot to create some amazing memories. If all else fails, pour yourself a nice glass of wine later!
Hi! My name is Tristan. I am a mom of 6 & the owner of Tristan Quigley Photography. I specialize in maternity, newborn, senior & family photography in the San Diego area. I have over 10+ years of experience creating timeless memories for thousands of amazing clients!
Social-emotional learning is crucial for well-being, from forming solid relationships and self-esteem to decision making and beyond. When it comes to recognizing the importance of mental health, we as adults have taken a huge step in the right direction, from mindfulness to meditation. So, how can we help our kids learn positive ways of managing their experiences and expressing their emotions? Read on for our list of favorite books to help kids (and parents) with social-emotional learning!
Mel Fell is a charming and innovative read about a scrappy little bird, from the award-winning author-illustrator of Fox the Tiger. Turn this book sideways and upside down to follow Mel on her journey from downward fall to triumphant flight in this tale of self-confidence and taking a leap of faith. Mel's unwavering spirit encourages kids to feel brave and go for it, eventually soaring—even if they fall down first.
Each finger has it's very own name like thumb and index, but the poor toes don't! The big toe wants to be called A, but not everyone agrees with the alphabet theme. The second toe argues they should go for numbers, while the last toe prefers fruits! How on earth will they resolve their disagreement? By working together, listening to one another and compromising, of course! In this imaginative and colorful board book, kids will learn how to celebrate their uniqueness all while learning about concepts like letters, numbers, music notes, colors, and fruits.
Father-daughter time shines in this irresistible story about creativity, solving problems and looking on the bright side when faced with obstacles. An expressive picture book about resilience and the power of imagination, it's a perfect read-aloud for rainy days...or any day you’re stuck at home!
With breakfast finished, an energetic young girl is ready to play. But it’s raining, and Dad says that she must stay inside. So, she crafts and she builds, she draws and she bakes. What else can she do to find the sunny side of a rainy day?
This book brilliantly encourages kids to use creativity to overcome challenges, keeping the gloomies at bay, any day!
Kids experience anxiety and can feel overwhelmed just like we do. This colorful picture book serves as both a story and a step-by-step guide to help kids help themselves. Ollie is the puppy living inside of the narrator's head, and when Ollie panics or is too energetic, the narrator feels that way, too! Our hero learns to handle the situation with her breath and her mindfulness, and by talking it out with an adult. Puppy in My Head is a compassionate book that will leave young readers a little more well-equipped to handle the puppies in their own heads.
What’s better than a sock puppet? How about a set of adorable socks that double as hand puppets. Olympian Shawn Johnson East and her husband Andrew East, were inspired by their 14-month-old daughter Drew to create the playful kid-friendly Teddy & Bear.
Each pair of Teddy & Bear is knitted with the comfiest, coziest supima cotton. They can be worn as children’s socks or hand puppets.
Each set includes eight adorable new friends to invite into your home:
Teddy the Tiger is the fastest, strongest critter of the bunch.
Bear the Bear keeps the crew in line and is known for his hugs.
Mallie the Mallard Duck is a total know-it-all and the fanciest friend.
Addy the Alligator might have big teeth, but has an even bigger heart.
Ray the Raccoon is very eager to peak through your pockets.
Ziggy the Zebra is silly as can be and always ready to play.
Mabel the Mouse is a little shy, but sure does love some cheese.
Phoebe the Pig is your inspiration to kick back and have a roll in the mud.
“Teddy & Bear socks are an extension of the magic we’ve experienced in becoming parents,” said Shawn. “We wanted to create a brand that captures the world you’re swept into when playing with your child.” “For Drew, they’re not just socks; they’re friends,” added Andrew. “We can’t wait to share how we’re making seemingly small moments silly and fun every day.”
Prices start at $36, and there are four sizes available, ranging from 0–6 years old. To place an order and learn more about the adorable sock crew, visit Teddy & Bear today.
This season, we’re all considering a lot when we spend our valuable dollars. And the truth is, every single dollar you spend really does matter. As a small business entrepreneur, I can verify that even small orders MAKES A HUGE DIFFERENCE. In my work in sustainable fashion, I spend a lot of energy making sure that everything I offer is not only designed well from an aesthetic point of view, but also designed with environmental and human implications in mind. For every company and every product this looks a little different, so I take the time to forge the relationships with brands and designers to ensure that what I’m offering the world is a benefit on all fronts. With that in mind, I’ve assembled a holiday gift assortment that fits into the realities of 2020…hopefully helping us to all glean some positive vibes from the harsh realities of this year.
1
Cable Knit Beanie
If Kristoff's hat was a twinning season staple.
$37
This beanie is not only stylish, but super practical. It's lined with organic cotton and the outer wool knit design is produced in Finland. A land that knows a lot about how to keep cozy in the elements.
Inspired by the French provincial bows in Beauty & The Beast, these handmade accessories are fashioned from a range of vintage & European made brocades. A special accessory in both child and adult size, they can also be worn Kamala style as a neck tie, headband...or your very own way!
Does it make any sense to buy a dedicated special occasion dress this year? We think a special dress that can also double as a play dress is the way to go. This beautifully illustrated owl design by iconic Nordic artist, Klaus Haapaniemi is magical. The silhouette is unique, but the fabric is super comfy!
This beautiful knit is lined with organic cotton and fits snug to keep your head and ears toasty! Also comes in adult and child sizes, so don't be afraid to twin!
And the gals in your life won't be disappointed by this one! The wave knit structure is stunning, and the soft warm merino is sourced ethically from mulesing free sheep farms. So good, so fashionable, so timeless.
These wool mittens are lines with organic cotton and the long cuff is multi-functional - it helps keep the mittens on, it keeps the forearms warm...mitigating space between the coat and mitten.
The most practical addition to your winter wardrobe. With an organic cotton inner layer and outer wool, my favorite way to wear this is as a headband. This comes in one size and is very stretchy, so can work seamlessly for child or adult. Male or Female! (A good gift for dads, my husband loves his!)
Experiencing below 40 degree temps regularly? Your kids need these!
$44
The Kivat balaclavas are why I wanted to work with this company. They are unique and so practical. Never itchy, helping the kids be always ready to play! Not only are the materials sustainable, but the design is uber functional for cold weather. The ears and forehead feature additional lining, and the reflective tab keeps kids visible as the days shorten.
Pair the Madrid Sweatshirt with Valletta trouser, and twin with the little sibling in the Milan Romper for a family of adorable penguin babies! Organic cotton fabric that will stand the test of time and can be passed down for years to come.
Clean burning, eco-friendly soy candles in an elegant 10oz black glass tumbler - my favorite gift of the season! Made from high quality fragrance oils, no dyes, and cotton ribbon wicks free of lead and zinc.
Last Sunday, I was super motivated to clean and organize all of the toys! I have really been wanting to do this before Christmas. Parents, do you ever get overwhelmed by all of the toys, clutter, and those pesky little broken pieces everywhere?
I like cleanliness, organization and things just being put away. Of course, with three little boys, I have learned to live with it, their mess that is. The boys do put away toys every night before bed but they have not been organized and put in their proper place every time. (Plus, they have a Daddy who may be the messiest of them all…) So, I took four hours straight to get the toys where they needed to be and also many large piles of items to get rid of by either donating or just trash. We are donating baby toys and things in good condition that need a new home in order to make room for the new things that they may be getting for Christmas. We are trashing or recycling the broken things, the very old puzzles, and other items that have a million little pieces—half of which are missing. I am also trashing or donating any free and cheap things they got over the years that are never played with any longer such as happy meal toys.
I will share a lot of what I have done to get the toys in order but today I am concentrating on the organization of LEGOS specifically. Check out my Instagram page where I’ve saved everything in my stories under the highlight “Organization.”
It may seem very simple, just sort by color, but as a Mom to three LEGO-loving boys, I have learned a lot about precisely how to best keep them organized for good.
Here are my tips for parents helping to sort and store their children’s’ LEGOS.
Assess what you have. Bring them all to one common area where you can look everything over and see all of it together.
Find appropriate storage. We have a small tool organizer from Akro Mills. I highly recommend this one. It was Hunter’s favorite Christmas gift last year, not kidding! He is in 1st grade and loves organization like his Mama. We also have a tall stand-up drawerfor larger completed pieces and all of the manuals that come with LEGO sets.
When assessing and sorting, you just have to start somewhere. I took the biggest pieces out—things that were built or half-built and set them aside for the larger stand-up drawer.
Next, sort by color. Start with what you have the most of. For us, it was black and gray. Ask for help here, Hunter (7) and Deacon (5, almost 6) were helpers. Wyatt (2) was not into it. Many hands make light work!
Also, make separate piles for things that are not LEGOS bricks such as LEGO people, windows/doors, windshields, tires, and so forth. These things can have their own drawer.
Do not waste your time taking pieces apart. Some things have 5-10 small Legos put together. This may be something they are working on and so I just put it in the color drawer that it is mostly.
Now you can pull out the drawers and put them on the floor or table when ready to play. Keep the built pieces in the larger storage container and then encourage them to sort and clean up when done with the LEGOS for the day. Eventually, they will get into the habit and will be doing this on their own.
Use the LEGO plates for building! This will help to keep what they are building and so it won’t break or get destroyed. (LEGO plates can be pricey but also make a great Christmas gift.) I do not personally recommend off-brand, it is a different quality.
This will be a constant job but it will help in the end. My boys are so happy to have it organized because it helps them to play and build more easily for years to come.
This is not for 3-year-olds (or younger). Wyatt is ready to destroy everything I have done. It won’t be worth your time and energy for them to just dump out all of the nicely organized containers. If you have a young one, keep your older kids’ nicely organized LEGOS out of their reach!
Anyway, I bet you never knew so much went into keeping LEGOS! But when you are a Mom to three boys who happen to all love building, you learn a few things along the way. I remember spending countless hours with my brother and friends at our babysitters playing with LEGOS, just building for hours upon hours. Our family loves them so much and is a great break from screen time and especially in the wintertime when they may not be able to play outdoors. Getting organized now will help you to feel ready for all of those holiday and Christmas gifts!
I always love to hear from you, if you have more tips to share, please do!
Located in Bloomington, Indiana I am a wife, full-time working Mom to 3 boys, a part-time graduate student & a writer. I am also an optimist, problem solver, peacemaker, gardener, runner and a crazy-busy mom just trying to enjoy each moment. I truly value my friends, family and my mommy tribe.
Now there is a stuffed animal that can play along with your kids. Jazwares is introducing Fuzzible Friends, the first kids plush with Alexa Gadgets technology. Pair Fuzzible Friends with a compatible Amazon Echo device, and, using the Fuzzible skill for Alexa, open up a world where technology enriches, entertains, and encourages little ones to use their imagination.
These adorably plush animals speak a funny little language that Alexa magically translates through the kid-directed Fuzzible skill. A child can interact with their Fuzzible by playing color guessing games, choose their own story, and more. There are four Fuzzible Friends to collect—each with its own unique personality and language—including Cubby the Fox, Fluff the Bunny, Sparkles the Unicorn, and Cuddles the Puppy.
“It’s been a unique opportunity to be able to bring the Alexa technology into the world of play in a brand new and enriching way,” said Jeremy Padawer, EVP/Partner at Jazwares. “Fuzzible Friends utilizes the technology to open new doors for our children’s already active imagination.”
This product does not have a microphone or speaker, however once you’ve paired your cuddly Fuzzible Friend with your compatible Echo device via Bluetooth, just say, “Alexa, let’s play Fuzzible Friends.” Once Alexa indicates your Fuzzible is ready to play, have your child squeeze its left paw to begin interacting and watch its antenna light up. Fuzzible Friends™ plush have over 40 sounds and 140 translated phrases. Kids can also enjoy their Fuzzible Friend when it’s not connected to an Echo device in another mode. Even though it won’t be able to give translations of its unique language, every press of the left paw will still prompt your new pal to talk to your child and its antenna to light up.
Fuzzible Friends features include:
Interactive Play: Use the Fuzzible skill for Alexa and a compatible Amazon Echo device for interactive fun. Play cool guessing games or choose your own story adventures!
From their language to yours: Listen as Fuzzible skill for Alexa magically translates the Fuzzible Friends’™ language on your compatible Echo device (parental or guardian consent required). There are 140 translated phrases.
High Quality Plush: Fuzzible Friends™ are made with soft, high-quality plush making it perfect to cuddle up with.
Play Offline: Your child can also play with their Fuzzible Friend when it’s not connected to an Echo device. The Fuzzible will still light up and speak its funny language—just without the translations.Over 40 Plush Phrases & Sounds: Fuzzible Friends™ speak their own unique language made up of gibberish and silly sound effects. Watch as your Fuzzible Friends’ antenna lights up when it speaks to your child.
Fuzzible Friends are available for pre-order today for $19.99 exclusively at Amazon and will be on-sale officially on Nov. 1st.
Whether we’re trying to get things done around the house, join a work meeting, or just catch our breath, parents all need ways to keep our kids engaged during the day. And, it goes without saying, we’d love it if whatever keeps them busy also helps them learn and thrive.
What’s the Solution? Independent Play.
We’ve all seen glimpses of it. You notice it’s been quiet in the other room for a while, you peek in and your child is totally immersed and “in the flow” of play. And it’s magical. It’s in those moments that kids are doing their best learning. They are feeling happy. They are engaged in what’s interesting to them, and they are developing skills like persistence, creativity, and problem-solving. That’s the good stuff—independent play.
What if you and your kids don’t just have to stumble into those magical moments, but you could actually make them happen every day? You don’t have to be a trained teacher to help your kids learn to play on their own. And, you don’t even need to have the ideas! You just may need some help to get started.
How? Independent Play Training!
There are whole sections of the bookstore dedicated to “no-stress” sleep training and “quick and easy” potty-training, but most parents and caregivers don’t know that there’s a third type of training that’s just as essential. Tinkergarten’s Independent Play Training video series will take you step-by-step through the process of getting kids ready to play on their own.
Watch: Lesson 1: Setting Up a Space For Play and see how you can set up the following play stations that will your kids to play independently like mud kitchens, art centers, and water playgrounds.
Then, take 20 minutes and, using what you learned in the video, set up your own space for play. We guarantee you’ll get hours (if not days!) of independent play in your life.
What next?
Read more about how to set up play centers for your family, including a mud kitchen, art center or water playground. They work indoors, too!
See some play centers that families across the country have put together using just what they had on hand.
After 18 years as an educator, curriculum developer and school leader, Meghan has her dream gig—an entrepreneur/educator/mom who helps families everywhere, including hers, learn outside. Today, Meghan serves as co-founder and Chief Learning Officer of Tinkergarten, the national leader in outdoor play-based learning.