ML Interest Tag: soccer-games

Kids Need Unstructured Play Time, Especially in the Summer—& Here’s Why

by Erica Loop

The road to the ivy league doesn’t include hours on end of random block play and kid-created dress-up games. Right? Um, maybe not. Sometimes letting kids be kids is what children really need. So why is unstructured play so important? While there’s no easy answer to this question, filling your tot’s schedule with ballet classes, soccer games, tennis lessons and every other program that child shows even a moderate amount of interest in may not be the key.

Hey, letting your kiddo explore their interests is never a bad thing. That is, unless their interests include cliff diving or something equally as scary. Even though a class or two can do plenty of good, when the handful of activities that your child picks out turn into three different lessons a day that you choose, something might be…um, off.

Photo: Free-Photos via Pixabay

So why cut down on the classes and up your kiddo’s unstructured play time? Giving your child time to just play may boost your little one’s creativity. Think about what happens when you step back and let your child lead when it comes to creating engaging activities. Chances are they’ll kick their imagination into high gear and problem-solve a solution to the “What should I do now mommy?” dilemma.

Along with increasing creativity, unstructured play may help your kiddo to develop social skills. If your child is playing with their peers, they’re navigating the social waters and building communication, sharing and turn-taking skills.

What can you do to help your child play? Well, the answer isn’t to schedule unstructured play time. Instead, take the opposite approach. Stop scheduling everything, and just let your child be. Don’t worry, they’ll figure out something to do!

—Erica Loop

Featured Photo: HaiRobe via Pixabay

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Mom Boss! Meet the Country’s Most Inspirational Power Moms

by Erin Lem

Have you heard? The future is female! That’s right–We’re celebrating women across the country who are innovating, creating, leading and ideating. What do all these women have in common? They’re all multi-tasking mothers breaking glass ceilings and setting examples for future generations everywhere. From designers to business owners to educators, read on to meet 154 inspirational power moms who slay every day.

Power Moms of the Style & Design World

These women make motherhood look GOOD. Our 2016 list of style and design powerhouses is filled with architects, art directors, product designers, fashion stylists and so many more. Click here to be inspired and meet them all!

 

Power Moms of the Food World

When it comes to feeding hungry kiddos, every mother fits the term Power Mom. But these women are taking the power up a notch by doing awesome work in the food industry. To meet them all click here!

 

 

10 Moms Who Know the Power of Healthy Living

From holistic celebrity chefs to moms who fight for clean air, these 10 amazing women work hard, play hard, and are powerhouses when it comes to the eco-tastic life. Flip through the album below to meet our Green Living Power Moms of 2016.

 

 

The Bay Area’s BOMB Power Moms

It’s no surprise (to us, at least) that many of the people who make the Bay Area great are ambitious, creative, multitasking moms whose families have inspired them to aim higher and excel in their fields. We highlight a few of our favorite Bay Area Power Moms right here—click here to see them all!

 

 

 

Making It Here: Meet 14 NYC Power Moms

Representing fields ranging from design, media, education, science, fashion, finance and beyond — and often possessing a killer entrepreneurial streak — these ladies are inspiring examples of sisters doin’ it for themselves, while also making family a priority. (Oh, but “Work/Life” balance? They all kind of call B.S. on that concept, and offer their own take on it.) Click through to meet your new lady-crushes!

 

 

Meet the LA Power Moms Who Slay All Day

While we think all moms are amazing, we’ve chosen a very special group of our fave LA power moms who are not only holding down the fort at home, but are also creating, inventing, inspiring, innovating and pursuing their dreams in a wide variety of fields. Meet them here.

 

 

It’s a Bird! It’s a Plane! Nope…It’s a Chicago Power Mom!

Meet just a small representation of Chicago’s Power Moms: women who carry an incredible amount of responsibility and commitments to careers, family, friends and community, all with kindness and humility. Click here to meet the moms.

 

 

Meet 13 Power Moms Who Call Seattle Home

Whether it’s heading a start up, running errands or coaching our sidekick’s weekend soccer game (or all of the above!), moms really do do it all. Flip through to meet 13 Seattle moms who prove you don’t need to wear a cape to have super powers.

 

 

11 Inspirational D.C. Power Moms

Super powers aren’t just for Captain America and Harry Potter. Need proof? These 11 D.C. moms may not be able to fly at the speed of light, but they soar in their own right–heading start-ups, running errands like a boss or mentoring the next generation of leaders (or all three). Click through to get to know them a little better while filling your inspiration allotment for the month.

 

 

14 San Diego Power Moms Who Redefine Motherhood

We uncovered 14 San Diego moms who are redefining motherhood in their own way. They are teachers, lawyers, STEM advocates, even planners, Girl Scout leaders, music teachers, chocolatiers, authors, and much more. What’s the one thing they have in common? They are moms, first and foremost. Meet them here.

 

 

Atlanta Power Moms You Need to Meet

You know the old saying—If you want to get something important done right, ask a busy mom to do it. Well, we believe it, and we’ve rounded up 11 Atlanta moms to prove it.

 

 

 

Portland Power Moms Who Are Keeping PDX Weird & Wonderful

From working to find foster homes for homeless children to empowering other mothers and much, much more, these power moms are working tirelessly to make our community better and stronger while raising the next generation of Portlanders up right. Click through to get inspiration from these PDX power moms.

 

 

Power Moms Leading the Tech World

These power moms are proving that the tech industry is no longer a man’s world. Check out their stories and accomplishments and get ready to feel empowered!

 

We know there are hundreds of thousands of power moms out there and we bet you’re one of them (or know one)! Tell us–who else should we add to our list? Sound off below!

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Up, Up & Away: Meet 13 Power Moms Who Call Seattle Home

by Allison Sutcliffe

It may have been Stan Lee who penned, “with great power comes great responsibility,” but moms live this truth daily. Whether it’s heading a start up, running errands or coaching our sidekick’s weekend soccer game (or all of the above!), moms really do do it all. Flip through to meet 13 Seattle moms who prove you don’t need to wear a cape to have super powers.

Rachel Yang, Chef/Owner Revel, Joule, Trove and Revelry
Rachel Yang, mom to Pike (6) and Rye (4), and her chef husband, Seif opened their Seattle restaurant, Joule, 10 years ago, after moving from the East Coast. The first of four restaurants, Joule paved the way for all of their eateries becoming part of the community. Joule holds a special place for patrons and the people who work there: they’ve seen Rachel pregnant, peeked in on babes sleeping in car seats, and now watch as the boys run around in their home away from home. One of the Trove cooks grew up eating there, and now, ten years later, he’s learning how to cook alongside this master chef. Stories like these align with Rachel’s philosophy that her restaurants are more than a place to feed people, they “help them create everlasting memories of good times.”

If you’re wondering where Rachel’s ability to immerse herself in new experiences comes from, we can only imagine it has something to do with her move to the United States when she was 15. She not only survived, but thrived, learning a new language, a new culture and making new friends. All before she found her true calling after college: to cook. It’s not surprising that this multi-tasking mom enjoys doing the same with her boys. She says they’re both great helpers and definitely take after their parents in the kitchen, helping to make everything from breakfast to salads to delish baked goods. Yum!

Power Mom Pearl: “Between 4 restaurants and family to take care of, I am definitely busy. But I dedicate all my energy to those things that are most important to me. It doesn’t leave me much time for myself, but I am always very thankful for everything that I do have, rather than thinking about things that I don’t have time for.”

photo: Jackie Baisa

 

Do you know a Seattle Power Mom others should know about? Tell us about her in a comment. 

—Allison Sutcliffe

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Just Opened: Arroyo Adventure at Kidspace

by LeTania Kirkland Smith

Kidspace Museum in Pasadena is always a kid favorite, but this summer there’s a brand new reason to visit. The just opened Arroyo Adventure makes great use of the beautiful outdoor surroundings with the perfect amount of shade and water to keep it cool when things heat up. From a brand new Hawks’ Nest for climbing to a wonderfully messy clay and mud area, there is plenty to keep your adventurers simultaneously sheltered from the sun and engaged outdoors.

photo: LeTania Kirkland

Room for More, No More
If you’ve ever been to Kidspace when it’s toasty, you’ve enjoyed the outdoor space known as the Interpretive Arroyo—a mini replica of the Arroyo Seco area that teaches the family about the local environment and conservation and, plain and simple, allows the kids get wet on hot days. Prior to the new Arroyo Adventure there was still lots of space just waiting to be used. Not anymore! Every inch of the outdoor gardens are now home to 8 new exhibits inspired by nature that will help your kids learn about the environment, scientific processes and, most importantly, jump into some great creative play.

photo: LeTania Kirkland

Fly Like the Eagle (or Hawk!)
One of the most dramatic developments in this new adventure is the Hawk’s Nest; a towering structure where your newbie flyers can make their way into the hawk’s home and look high above the trees. There’s a little something for every young hawk no matter where they are in their development. Depending on their agility, kids can take the ramp, stairs, rope bridge or a circular climber up to the top. Be prepared to hang out as there is full hawk outfitting where the your hatchlings can dress up and enjoy their soaring moment. But if your adventurer is not keen on heights, they can also enjoy a baby hawk’s nest down below with their feet firmly on solid ground.

photo: LeTania Kirkland

Get Your Hands Dirty (Literally)
Happily for kids, the Arroyo Adventure is largely hands on. There are several exhibits that encourage kids to get involved and get dirty in the process. One of these is the Mud and Clay Outdoor Studio. Anyone can walk in and get elbow deep in that cool vats. The youngest of adventurers may just want to dig in and enjoy while others may take the time to form clay or mud creations. Guides are available with varying activities like mud brick making where your builders can take the process far beyond mud pies. There is a water dispenser close by so little clay workers can clean up before moving on. But it’s definitely a good idea to bring an extra set of clothes.

photo: LeTania Kirkland

The Flood and Erosion Plain is yet another opportunity for everyone to learn and let imaginations soar. Just near the Arroyo Interpretive Area, the plain full of sand and water where your engineers in the making can learn about erosion while making channels in the sand, building dams and using varying materials to manipulate the water’s flow.

photo: LeTania Kirkland

Take a Walk on the Wild Side
There is never a shortage of ways to create at Kidspace and now there are three new opportunities outdoors. Be sure to hit the Pepper Tree Jam where your musicians can make beautiful sounds beneath the pepper tree with instruments made from natural materials. Just next door is the Arroyo Art corner complete with large frames for painting, chalk creations and a weaving loom where they can weave with natural  materials and plants.

photo: LeTania Kirkland

Just across the way at the Hidden Forts area, your artists can put their creativity to work in building. Wood, cloth ties and large cloth pieces are provided and your little builders can let their imaginations run wild and build forts or any other structure they put their minds to.

photo: LeTania Kirkland

A Little Down Time
If you have a babe in tow or a toddler who needs to slow things down be sure to stop by the Infant and Toddler Area. Here, your explorers can take a moment in the sand surrounded by green trees to dig, explore and build with the sand tools provided. Just across the small path, the area is complete with chairs and a changing table where you can have a moment to recharge before they get their second wind, because a visit here can last all day.

photo: LeTania Kirkland

Old Time Favorites
While exploring, be sure to visit some of the old favorites in the Arroyo Adventure that have been revamped. The Harvest Corner has been enhanced and provides a space where your gardeners can learn about plant life, composting, and the process of food production. Be sure to stop by the Strata Rock Climb Wall where your adventurers can get started on their rock climbing skills. And of course, a summer visit to Kidspace isn’t complete without visiting the Interpretive Arroyo and Wildlife Pond where everyone can cool off in the water and get a mini hiking experience through the terrain.

While you’re there be sure to find out what is happening at the Stone Hollow Amphitheater just below the Interpretive Arroyo. There are daily learning opportunities, which include music performances and Wildlife shows where your animals lovers can meet the animals of the Arroyo Seco—you may not get another opportunity to get so close to a Red Tailed Hawk or an adorable tree fox.

photo: LeTania Kirkland

Good to know: Definitely bring an extra set of clothes. Even if you don’t plan on getting in the water it is likely that you’ll need a change. Between water, clay and mud there are lots of (beautiful) opportunities to get dirty. Also, shoes must be worn at all times, even in the water, so be sure to bring along a pair of water friendly shoes for the Interpretive Arroyo. This new space is great for kids of all ages, from dirt digging babies to little tween engineers and everyone in between.

If you haven’t been to Kidspace in a while: Admission is now $13 per person.  (Babies under 1 year are free.) And be sure to check the website before you go, because due to soccer games, the Rose Bowl Flea market and other Rose Bowl events, the museum is sometimes closed or there may be road closures and heavy traffic.  You can check those dates here.

Kidspace is open Weekdays from 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m. and Saturday & Sunday from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Kidspace Children’s Museum
480 N. Arroyo Blvd.
Pasadena
626-449-9144
Online: kidspacemuseum.org

Have you checked out the new Arroyo Adventure?  We’d love to hear your thoughts on the new space at Kidspace.

—Letania Kirkland

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Parlez-Vous D.C.? A Dictionary for District Parents

by Katie Brown

D.C.’s unique vocabulary and insider references could fill up an entire dictionary. We figured it was time for an addendum just for you parents out there. Here’s a lesson in local lingo for Moms and Dads.

Photo: Kevin Harber via flickr

The Nats
Everywhere else: Those pesky winged insects that threaten to spoil your beach vacation.
Washington, D.C.: Our beloved baseball team!  Next season, be sure to let your 4-12 year-olds take advantage of Kids Run the Bases.  Each child accompanied by an adult can have his or her moment of homer glory starting 20 minutes after the end of every game, weather
permitting.  For details, see: washington.nationals.mlb.com

The White House
Everywhere else: That modest craftsman down the street that always manages to show everybody up with its holiday lawn decorations.
Washington, D.C.: That rather ostentatious neo-classical mansion at 1600 Pennsylvania that always manages to show everybody up with its holiday lawn decorations.  Note: tickets for the National Christmas Tree lighting lottery are now closed, but you and your kids can still watch it on PBS!  For more information, see: thenationaltree.org

Old Town
Everywhere else: Home of the Citadel, where Games of Thrones‘ Samwell Tarly trains to become a Maester.  Good luck, Sam the Slayer.
Washington, D.C.: Alexandria, VA’s quaint historic district, complete with legit cobblestone streets.  Don’t miss the Compagna Center Scottish Walk Parade on December 5, where the kids can see traditional
bagpipes, drums, Scottie dogs, and–of course–Santa Claus.  For additional information: visitalexandriava.com

Photo: polytropos via flickr 

The Mall
Everywhere else: A local hub for teenage hormones.  Oh, and birthplace of the cheese-dipped soft pretzel.  Mmmmm.
Washington, D.C.: The National Mall boasts the country’s most famous monuments and memorials and plays hosts to protests, soccer games, and festivals.  The (free) museums alone will entertain your cherubs all winter long.

Chevy Chase
Everywhere else: One of the OG SNL cast members, navigationally-challenged Clark Griswold, and a handsome plaid-clad golfer.
Washington, D.C.: A Maryland suburb that’s also a frequent contender for the title of “Nation’s Most Affluent Town.”  The adjacent spray ground may be closed for the season, but Chevy Chase Playground is worth the drive!  See: app.dpr.dc.gov

Reston
Everywhere else: The seldom-experienced parental indulgence also known as “chillin’,” “relaxin’,” “nappin’ while the kids watch Frozen for the 93rd time”.
Washington, D.C.: The idyllic NoVa suburb that’s home to SkateQuest—an indoor ice skating rink that hosts a Snow and Story Hour for preschool-aged kids.  Bring your children to romp about on the ice (no skates required!) and play in a pile of real snow, then warm up with hot cocoa and a cookie while they listen to a story!  For additional details, see: skatequest.com

Photo: Brunswick Crossing via flickr

MARC
Everywhere else: Your neighbor, known for his exceptionally tangy homemade pickles.
Washington, D.C.: The Maryland Area Regional Commuter, a high-speed rail system that operates in the Baltimore-Washington, DC metropolitan area.  Kids under the age of six ride free with any full fare paying passenger!

The Hill
Everywhere else: That topographical gem that brings squeals of delight to children on sleds.
Washington, D.C.: The United States Capitol Building, a metonym for the United States Congress, and a (technically forbidden) topographical gem that brings squeals of delight to children on sleds.

Dupont
Everywhere else: That chemical company that makes your makeup, yogurt, Corian countertops, and high performance golf balls.
Washington, D.C.: A historic district in northwest Washington, DC known for the Phillips Collection, its park with permanent stone chessboards, and the annual High Heel Race. Bring your kids to Kramerbooks to pick up some politically progressive children’s books, and just try to leave without devouring their signature Café Hot Fudge Sundae.

What D.C.-centric words did we miss? Tell us in the comments section.

–Katie Brown

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8 Baby Sleep Tips for Desperate Parents

by rtlesleymiller

Whether you’re a first-time mom of a night owl newborn, or a third time mom of a baby who takes 28-minute naps, you can probably agree that sleep deprivation is one of the cruelest parts of parenting. Since there isn’t a one-size-fits-all sleep solution for babies (wouldn’t that be nice?) it often takes trial and error to determine how to get your baby to fall asleep and stay asleep. Start with these suggestions, and make sure to leave us a comment about which one ends up working for you.

photo credit: Simi Dimitric via Flickr

1. Protect the morning nap.
Naps are really important for babies, but generally speaking the morning nap is the most restorative because it’s easier for babies to fall back into deep, non-REM sleep. If you have older kids or a lifestyle that makes it hard to stay home for naps, at the very least consider prioritizing the morning nap. Do whatever it takes to insure a good nap during the first hours of the day, even if it means wearing the baby in a sling or putting them in a swing. You know your baby better than anyone else. If they have a preferred way or place to sleep, make sure you give them access to that during the morning hours.

2. Invest in a travel sized white noise machine.
Many babies are light sleepers or have trouble staying settled through sleep transitions. For on-the-go families, a travel size white noise machine can help keep babies stay asleep at soccer games, noisy playgrounds or restaurants. If you have a baby who wakes up every time the car stops, try a machine that attaches to your car seat. The consistency of sound may be enough to help them ignore a change in movement.

Photo credit: Oscar Pulido via Flickr

3. Move them to their own room.
Babies can be loud even when they’re asleep. If your child grunts, moves and fusses long before they fully wake up, it may be easier for everyone to transition him to his own room. By putting him in his own space, you’ll be able to sleep through all of his odd sounds instead of laying awake worried or analyzing whether or not he’s hungry or waking up. Some babies will actually sleep better when they’re not as close to mom’s smell. You, of course, will know what’s best for your child.

4. Try “the pause.”
Parenting book Bringing Up Bebe: One American Mother Discovers the Keys to French Parenting praises a baby sleep technique “le pause.” What is it? Essentially, it’s resisting the urge (and parenting instinct) to run to your baby at the first sound of stirring. A little grunt, a minute or two of crying (we’re not talking cry it out here), a few moments of flailing around in his crib are all a part of your baby waking and resettling himself. If you run to him immediately, you’re robbing him of this opportunity to learn to put himself back to sleep. Start le pause right away and you may see some results.

5. Try a sleep app to help analyze napping patterns.
Attention parents of cat nappers! Your baby’s 28-minute sleep cycle is totally a thing. Unlike adults, some little ones struggle with the transition between non-REM and REM sleep. The nap app Baby Connect helps parents track sleep cycles and analyze patterns such as when baby likes to sleep, and for how long. Using the information, parents can better determine when a nap is necessary, or when to be on standby to help your baby through the non-REM/REM sleep transition.

6. Put baby to sleep before they are fussy.
Babies each have their own way of communicating tiredness, and crying is usually a sign you’ve missed the optimum window. Young infants are often ready to nap again within 60-90 minutes of waking and 2 hours is a good mark for older babies, so start looking for sleep signs earlier than you may think. Eye rubbing, yawning and blank stares are all classic sleepy signs that indicate it’s time to start your bedtime or nap routine. If you catch your baby before he or she gets worked up, it will be much easier for them to fall asleep and stay asleep.

7. Try a special swaddle.
There are plenty of various swaddles, jackets, blankets and sacks on the market but the Zen Swaddle is becoming particularly popular with new parents who love how the product can fit baby from zero to six months without having to purchase various sizes. What makes the Zen Swaddle even more appealing is how it mimics a parent’s touch with two weighted pressure points, proven to stabilize heart rates and promote socio-emotional health.

8. Hire a sleep coach.
When all else fails, or you’ve simply reached the end of your rope, consider hiring a sleep coach. There are a variety of services; from local providers who can come to your house to online consultants who will e-mail you a personalized plan. The Baby Sleep Site is one such company that’s helped over 200,000 families worldwide and offers a variety of plans depending on your budget and needs. The site promises to never offer a one-size-fits-all solution, but rather works with parents to understand their child’s unique personality, and their families sleep goals.

What’s your biggest sleep struggle? Share your stories in the comments.

—Lesley Miller

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The New Robot Exhibit That Blasts You Into the Future

by Kelly Aiglon

Ever thought you’d play tic-tac-toe with a robot? Or watch mini bots play soccer? How about have a droid mimic your every move? You’ll do it all at the Museum of Science and Industry’s new exhibit, Robot Revolution. On through January 3, 2016, it explores how robots are changing how we play, live and work. You’ll eye up — and interact with — cutting-edge bots that have been rarely seen publicly until now. Here’s what you and your kids need to know!

You Can Play Games
Kids that think iPad games are the end-all-be-all should wait until they meet Baxter. This droid actually plays tic-tac-toe with them! So much more fun than challenging a screen, big, red Baxter actually picks up tiles and strategically puts them down. But he’s not all fun and games; Baxter is there to show off real technology designed to help humans in factory settings. He’s been designed for a range of simple, repetitive tasks, and has sensors on his arms that help him repeat and remember movements.

As you make your way through the exhibit, you can also experiment with a variety of advanced robot “grippers” to select and pick up objects. See how the Fanuc delta robot can select and sort items with precision and speed. And go head to head with Yaskwawa/Motoman, a dual-arm robot, in a game of 21.

Robots Make Good Soccer Players
And … goal! Be part of a crowd that goes wild as small box ‘bots cooperate with each other in a soccer game. The “robot world cup,” or Robocup, is actually a thing. Usually, it’s played internationally, with science and engineering teams from across the world. Here, it’s played before your eyes. These athletic fellas are programmed to work together thanks to hardware and software that provides information on positioning, movement and scoring. Doesn’t matter who you root for — the goal is showing off how robots can collaborate and communicate.

The Cutest Robot in the World is Here
Seriously, you won’t be able to get over ROBOTIS-OP. He’s a smidgeon of a bot, just over one foot tall, and mimics your movements. He was designed to see and recognize objects because of a camera in his head. Within his little glass house at the Robot Revolution exhibit, he does things like raise his hands when your kids raise theirs, and follow your face and make “eye” contact using visual tracking software.

Robots Have Feelings
Or, they are programmed to, at least! Laugh, get mad and be surprised with EMYS. The globe-like wonder mimics your facial expressions with its advanced facial-coding technology. It was built to be empathetic and to show companionship, which scientists believe will better humans’ lives. Your kids will love making silly faces at EMYS and watching its disks and eyes bulge out. Or they can press buttons marked with certain emotions (from “happy” to “angry”) and see an exciting roller coaster of feelings!

You’ll Want to Plan Ahead …
Robot Revolution is not included in Museum Entry and requires an additional timed-entry ticket: $11 for adults and seniors, and $9 for kids ages 3-11. You can get tickets online in advance by clicking here. Expect to spend at least an hour in the exhibit and even more, depending on the age of your child.

Museum of Science and Industry
5700 S. Lake Shore Dr.
Hyde Park
773-684-1414
Online: msichicago.org

Will you take your kids to see this incredible new exhibit? Let us know in the Comments!

— Kelly Aiglon

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3 Art Programs For Little Digital Artists

by Katie Kavulla

Soccer. Swim lessons. Piano. Play dates. Homework. More soccer. T-ball. Ballet. School science fairs. Spanish. French. Sign language. More play dates.

We’ve heard that there are only 24-hours in the day, but with the schedules our families keep — filled with extra-curricular, on the move, pack-something-into-every-moment fun — we’re certain that there must be more. There literally isn’t enough time in the day or the week or a lifetime to fit in all of the activities that our well-rounded kids love to do…or enough time for us to drive them to each one, for that matter!

While these new online art classes and art apps won’t solve all of your problems (sadly, they won’t do the grocery shopping for you, no matter how hard you try!), they will help you fit some creative time in for the young budding artists in your house, and, the best part — you won’t have to run across town to do so!

Apps: Draw Something
Stop hogging the iPad, Mom! Let your kids get their creative side out with a little Draw Something action. After all, you’re already addicted to it and hiding in the bathroom to play just one more round, right? This popular app is a fun way to let your kiddos get some technology-meets-art time in, as well as allowing them to connect with other “artists” like grandparents, cousins, and friends. In the likeness of Pictionary, Draw Something goes back and forth between two people, allowing one person to draw, while the other person guesses. It’s interactive, typically age appropriate (you may need to help them figure out a word or two here and there) and perfect for kids who can read. Also, it’s ideal for on-the-go — doctor appointment running late? Stuck in traffic? Downtime between soccer games? Yes, yes, and yes.

NATIONAL-Online-Art-Photos-Draw-Something

Find it: You can download Draw Something from the app store on your favorite smart phone or tablet — it’s available on most versions.

Buy it: Draw Something is available for free, as well as for purchase for $2.99, which gets you an ad-free version. Since this app is geared towards adults, as are the ads, we suggest breaking the bank for the upgrade.

Tips: Pick up a stylus for your little artist to use, rather than their finger. Not only will it improve the quality of their drawings, but it will keep their sticky fingers off of your iPad screen!

Downloadable Programs: Crayola Art Studio
Our kids already love their crayons and now their favorite drawing tools are going online with the Crayola Art Studio. Perfect for kids who are starting to be comfortable, or who already are pros, at navigating the computer, Art Studio is a good introductory program to expand their artistic side. We especially love that you can set up the screen with the features and tools that apply to the skill-level of your kiddo — adding in some fun buttons for older, more experienced artists, and keeping it simple for newer ones. Don’t forget to stalk up on ink cartridges — there’s going to be a whole lot of printing going on!

NATIONAL-Online-Art-Photos-Crayola-Art-Studio

Find it: Head to Amazon, where you can choose to purchase the program to be mailed to your home (via CD) or, download it straight from Amazon onto your computer. Art Studio is available for PC only.

Buy it: Both versions — the CD and the download — are approximately $20 via Amazon.

Tips: If they’re loving Art Studio, make the upgrade to Crayola Creative Studio ($33), which integrates the same features, plus animation, watercolors, the ability to make invitations and cards and more.

Online Classes: Thrive Online Art Classes
In what began as a Kickstarter campaign, Thrive Online Art Classes are now revolutionizing both the way that kids take art classes (the lesson is online, but your kids draw on, gasp, paper!) and the way that online programs for kids are approached. Each 30-minute lesson is lead by Thrive founder, Theresa Harris, a mom of two, who leads kids ages 3 and up through the step-by-step drawing process. Our favorite part of each video is the way that Thrive makes them so well-rounded — there is background and real photographs of the drawing that they are about to create (for example, what are float planes anyway?) and classical music playing in the background of the video to keep them stimulated during the coloring portion of the lessons.

NATIONAL-Thrive-Photos-Coloring

Find it: Online at thriveart.com — all lessons can be done using a laptop, desktop computer, smart phone or tablet

Buy it: A membership that includes unlimited access to the lessons is $80 (until the end of April 2013, when the price goes up to $100). We love that your kids are going to want to do each lesson over and over again — to try a new technique on their float plane or castle drawing, or to use different colors. These six lessons are going to take your kids much further than the week it will take them to work through them!

Tips: Jump online and check out the free class before signing up!

Tip for Parents: Channel Your Inner Artist
We promise not to tell. Grab your own supplies and join your kiddo in these lessons and apps… if they’ll share! Not only is this an awesome way to fit in some quality time with your kids when they’re least expecting it, but there is something so soothing about creating art, which we all could benefit from, right? We shouldn’t have to remind you to keep to yourself while you’re working alongside your little one — no unsolicited suggestions! Let them be and focus on your own creation. It’s pretty likely that your 8-year old’s is going to be way better than your own anyway!

What is your little artist’s favorite way to be creative?

— Katie Kavulla

photos courtesy of Draw Something website, Crayola Art Studio website, & Thrive facebook page

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Island Time, Local Style: 3 Kid-Friendly Seaside Day Trips

by Erin Cranston

Exploring quirky shops in tiny seaside towns, licking drippy ice cream cones with the sun on your face, digging your toes into warm sand as your kids collect shells and find tiny crabs…finally, you and your family are going on that totally awesome tropical island vacation, right? But hold the alohas and grab the car keys because we’ve rounded up three island day trips where there will be no need for triple checked packing lists, no apologies to weary seat-mates as they brush soggy goldfish off their laps, and no tiny airplane bathroom diaper changes on a flight that feels like it took off three days ago. These totally relaxed, totally local island day trips will leave you and your family saying “Don Ho who?”

Bainbridge Island

Is everyone in the family claiming boredom by 9am? Only 35 minutes away from downtown Seattle by ferry, Bainbridge Island’s downtown Winslow is the perfect answer to “what should we do today?” The area hosts a variety of spur of the moment, family-friendly and easily walkable goodies along Winslow Way to keep you and the Littles entertained from the moment you step off the ferry (and even before).

Explore
The small but mighty Kids Discovery Museum (KiDiMu) is ideal for the 0-10 set, where kids can spark their imaginations with a giant Lite Brite, learn about physics via golf balls (or just see how many they can collect) in the Motion Madness Room or get their hands dirty with themed events like Messy Mondays. The Bainbridge Island Museum of Art (across the parking lot from KiDiMu; admission is free) and KiDiMu are currently co-hosting an Artful Discovery scavenger hunt until September 21. Grab a clue card and search both museums for eight kid-friendly items (and win a treat from local candy store Bon Bon). Speaking of scavenger hunts, the Bainbridge Island Downtown Association (BIDA) is currently hosting “Frogs on the Rock”, 36 frog sculptures decorated by local artists and displayed (or sometimes hidden) throughout the island. Pick up a postcard with a list of Froggy’s hideouts at BIDA or check out the map here.

Taste
Nearby family-friendly restaurants abound. Check out Blackbird Bakery just down the street from KidiMu for gorgeous cakes, gooey pastries (including gluten-free options) and a to-go cup of Seattle’s Herkimer Coffee for the easy-peasy stroll back to the ferry. If your family’s screamin’ for ice cream, Mora Iced Creamery will please even the pickiest vanilla-only cone licker. Make sure to taste a few flavors before deciding—we suggest pink grapefruit. Need more than a sugar rush? Kid-friendly and parent pleasing Madison Diner’s all-day breakfast is sure to be a home run. Their hand dipped milkshakes and always-a-winner Mickey pancakes will silence every last “I’m huuuuungry.”

Navigate
All locations listed above are easily reached by foot from the ferry terminal. Your boat-loving kiddo will go crazy when you walk onto the ferry, and you’ll appreciate the savings—parking in downtown Seattle for a few hours costs less than the ferry’s car rates. Rather leave the stroller at home? The brand new Frog Hopper bus takes you to and from the Winslow ferry terminal on weekends (July through September), with routes on Winslow Way and along the north and south ends of the island to places like the Bloedel Reserve and Bainbridge Island Brewing (where kids are welcome!). Tickets can be purchased at the kiosk in the ferry terminal and are good for all day hop-on-and-off privileges ($7 for adults, $5 for seniors and kids 12 and under, and $20 gets families with 3-5 members an all-day pass). If you just have to have the kid taxi nearby, parking is always free along Winslow Way and in the museums’ shared parking lot.

Vashon Island

West-Seattleites consider Vashon an extension of their ‘hood, and with the cool 20-minute ferry ride from Fauntleroy, it’s no wonder. Hop in the car with your sunscreen and your sense of adventure, and get ready to take a short trip to a quiet place that slows your blood pressure (and calms your kiddos) the moment the ferry bumps against the dock.

Explore
Once off the ferry, point your car south towards Point Robinson Park, a pretty 12-mile drive across the island. The park houses a working lighthouse, and retired Coast Guard Captain Joe Wubbold gives free tours (amazing views included) on Sundays from 12-4pm through September. Sundays are too full of soccer games and trips to Grandma’s? Call Captain Joe anytime, year-round at (206) 463-6672 to schedule a tour—he’s happy to accommodate almost any schedule and any size group. If tours aren’t your thing, just let the little ones roam the wide, driftwood-strewn beach, and you might see a baby harbor seal sunning itself, or a giant container ship making its way (very close to the shore) to points south. On your way back to town, check out the new Burton Adventure Recreation Center (BARC), where you can catch some air on your skateboard or inline skates during Open Skate for only $6 (or buy a year membership for $10 and the price goes down to $3), a surefire way to get out the wiggles before the quiet ferry ride home. Check the website for current hours.

Taste
Need a pick me up (and a sweet treat for the kiddos) on your way into town? Snapdragon Café is the ultimate in rustic, homemade food that will make you and your little foodies want to visit Vashon daily just for their Classic Danish Cinnamon Roll with fresh apples and currants, or a few of their doesn’t-matter-what-size $2.50 espressos. (Don’t rush there on Mondays or Tuesdays-they’re closed). Famished after a day of exploring? The historic Hardware Store (yes, it was once a hardware store) is a local favorite and serves up hearty and delicious breakfasts, lunches and dinners, seven days a week.

Navigate
Vashon isn’t walkable from the ferry, but the above restaurants are located along Vashon Highway in downtown Vashon, which is the main road to and from the terminal. BARC is located just off the Vashon Highway near Burton; Point Robinson Park is on Maury Island (connected by road; check Google Maps for the route) and there is ample parking in the shady upper lot. Parking is free throughout the island.

Whidbey Island

Whidbey Island’s motto is “The Shortest Distance to Far Away,” and when you enter the quaint town of Coupeville, on the island’s east shore, you immediately see why. Founded in 1853 and full of small town charm, homemade food and gorgeous views, you and your kids will love the old buildings, cool local artifacts and slower pace found along Front Street. And did we mention the food?

Explore
Park along Front Street and head over to the Island County Historical Museum, where the kids can puzzle through the wonder of a 120,000 year old Ice Age tree trunk, squished flat by the Vashon Glacier, or picture the animal that went with the bones on display in the Mammoth Exhibit, evidence of a large mammoth population that once lived on the island. After cramming their heads full of cool history, walk across the street to the Coupeville Wharf, where you can stroll the pier, taking in the views of Penn Cove, and say hi to Rosie, the 32-foot skeleton of a young Gray Whale on display in the Breezeway.

On the walk back to the car, peruse the battery-and noise-free toys (hallelujah!) at the sure-to-please toy store Honey Bear (open daily, 10:30am-5:30pm) before your leisurely drive (and hopefully naptime) back to the ferry. If your kids refuse to snooze, stop at farm and local food haven Greenbank Farm, or take a short detour to Fort Casey, where you can take a fantastic 45-minute guided tour (1pm Fridays & 1pm and 2:30pm Saturdays and Sundays, Memorial Day-Labor Day) of the historic gun batteries, complete with four artillery guns standing their silent guard over Puget Sound. The adventurous in your tribe will love the pitch black Tunnel Room, always a hit with kids and sure to silence the five-year-old’s questions, at least for a few minutes. Call 360-678-4519 for current hours; tours are free.

Taste
Grab an espresso and a freshly baked, melt in your mouth Everything Cookie (believe us, it’s the best cookie we’ve ever had) from local favorite Knead and Feed (open til 4pm weekends and 3pm weekdays), or if the kiddos are fall-apart famished after your road trip, take in the view and the delicious kids’ menu at Front Street Grill, where local Penn Cove mussels are on the menu for you while the kids munch on crispy fries and Kobe beef sliders on pretzel buns. If the kiddos are high on sun and low on sugar after their seaside adventure, grab a freshly made waffle cone at Kapaw’s Iskreme (open every day at 11:30am, March through November).

Navigate
You’ll need your car for the drive to the Mukilteo Ferry and to get to Coupeville, but the town is completely walkable and street parking is free. Fort Casey is eight minutes south of Coupeville by car.

Island Alert
The ferry system can get crazy busy in the summer months, especially on festival weekends (and there are a lot of festival weekends!)  Always check the WSDOT Ferry website for current delays, prices and times (most routes have varying weekend and weekday schedules) and pack lots of snacks and water before embarking on your island adventure.

Does your family have a favorite island? Let us know in a comment below.

–Erin Cranston

Photos courtesy of: Erin Cranston, Kids’ Discovery Museum, Andrea Mackin, Allison Sutcliffe, Jim Patton, Pete Salutos/Kids’ Discovery Museum, Sue via Flickr, Chas Redmond via Flickr and Jeff Wilcox via Flickr

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