Meals on Wheels: 9 Food Trucks to Find This Summer

by Allison SutcliffeJune 19, 2020

When you need a foodie adventure with the kids, hit the streets in search of Seattle’s hottest food trucks. We’ve got the dish on where you’ll find them and the can’t-miss tastes you’ve got to try. Ready, set, eat!

Cycle Dogs

Chances are you’ve happened upon Cycle Dogs outside of Peddler Brewing during Babies in Arms Happy Hour night. But if you haven’t, it’s time to make it happen. Cycle dogs serves up vegan hot dogs, burgers and more that heap on flavor without using any meat products at all. Grab a fancy dog for yourself and one with a little less personality for the kids (or not) as a healthy alternative to a common kid staple.

Noteworthy noshable: The Seattle dog (of course!). But if city loyalty doesn’t dictate your diet, try the Elote instead.

Find ‘em: Look for them in the Peddler Brewing Co. brew garden when it’s open.

Online: facebook.com/CycleDogsSeattle/

My Sweet Lil' Cakes

Turn back the clock and dial up your taste buds because My Sweet Lil’ Cakes serves up savory and sweet hotcakes on a stick that are as tasty as they are inventive. It’s hard to miss the tiny orange truck that pops against Seattle’s seasonal grey. And the ‘50s fashion embraced by the owners and staff make everything about this truck beyond charming. In short, this is the full package, parents. Psst… yep they’ve got vegan and vegetarian options too!

Noteworthy noshable: Play it safe with the Seattle Chicken & Waffle or add some zest to your day with the Cornbread Cheddar Jalapeno waffle.

Find ‘em: Follow them online and on Facebook to see where they’ll pop up next.

206-265-3002
Online: mysweetlilcakes.com

Off the Rez

The flavorful tastes on display at the city’s first (and only) Native food truck were inspired by owner Mark McConnell’s childhood spent on the Blackfeet Rez in Montana. This is where he enjoyed traditional frybread tacos among family and friends. Now he and his partner, Cecilia Rikard, are bringing the tastes of home to the streets of Seattle. A bit on the indulgent side, you can’t go wrong with frybread tacos and burgers. But if you want a lighter fare, quinoa and kale salad also adorn the menu.

Noteworthy noshable: You came for the frybread, so eat the frybread. Pair a veggie chili taco with lemon curd sweet frybread for a “lighter” summer option.

Find ‘em: Grab a bite at one of their regular spots Mondays, Wednesdays or Fridays. Families can also follow their Facebook page for pop-ups and on-offs that are just as tasty.

Online: offthereztruck.com

Tat's Truck

East meets West at Tat’s Truck. The mobile version of this popular Pioneer Square deli, Tat’s serves up Philly style sandwiches that practically teleport your taste buds back to Philly or Jersey, take your pick. Stick with the standard fare when you order for a tried and true classic or spice things up a bit with the daily special. Don’t forget the TastyKakes to complete this culinary experience.

Noteworthy noshable: Try the Turkey Tat’strami. Consider it balanced indulgence in sandwich form.

Find ‘em: They’ll be parked at Hans VW repair in West Seattle on Saturdays this summer. Check their website for changes and hours.

206-583-2133
Online: tatstruck.com

Sugar + Spoon

Because raw egg shouldn’t hold you back, there’s Sugar + Spoon. This food truck serves up raw cookie dough disguised as ice cream and we couldn’t be more smitten with this ingenious pairing that should have happened ages ago. Grab your favorite scoop in a cup or waffle cone (after a healthy meal, of course). We recommend sharing with your minis to avoid imminent sugar rush.

Noteworthy noshable: You can’t go wrong with a scoop of Snickerdoodle, but your kids will probably want Cookie Monster.

Find ‘em: You can find them at their “On the Ave” location with limited hours by texting 425-615-5714. Or track their surrounding-area pop-ups online.

Online: sugarspoondough.com

Where Ya At Matt

This long-time local food truck fave is still rolling around Seattle serving up tasty Po-Boy’s, jambalaya and hot beignets to loyal fans. Since 2010 chef Matt Lewis has put his personal flair into his food, melding traditional New Orleans flavors with unusual ones, creating new and exciting combos you need in your mouth. Stick with a simple sandwich or add in some sides to share with your crew when you order.

Noteworthy noshable: Try the Creole Pork Po’boy for a change. And don’t forget the beignets!

Find ‘em: WYAM is popping up all over town. Follow them on Facebook to see when the truck will be in your ‘hood.

Online: whereyaatmatt.com

The Ultimate Melt

Tracking down gooey goodness is part of the parenting package. So add The Ultimate Melt food truck to your ongoing list. It’s your kiddo’s grilled cheese all grown-up, complete with a side of tater tots. You won’t find healthy here, but that’s not the point, right? And consider yourself lucky if they’ve loaded their namesake sandwich onto the truck. It’s a triple decker built with four different kinds of cheese, layered with bacon, tomato, onions and mushrooms.

Noteworthy noshable: We Brie Jammin’ mixes sweet, salty, cheese and bread, need we say more?

Find ‘em: North, south, east and west here’s find out where they’ll pop up next on their website.

425-269-4655
Online: theultimatemelt.com

Bean Fish

Although we miss seeing them at the Fremont Sunday Market (for now anyway), families can still find this food truck dishing up Japanese comfort food around the Emerald City. When it comes to feeding the kids, we love the packaging of these sweet and savory waffles that are mostly mess-free and hand-held, and the cheeky names don’t hurt either. You’ll find flavorful fillings like Korean kalbi beef, cheese and kimchi (K-pop), or mushrooms, garlic, wasabi peas and cheese (Kinoko Magic), all tucked snugly inside a kitschy fish-shaped waffle. Enticing? Yes, especially for tots.

Noteworthy noshable: The Domo Arigatou, Mr. Roberto should get props for the name alone, but its Mexican meets Japanese flavoring is a great combo. If sweet is what you’re after, try the Crackyaki, an homage to New York’s famed Milk Bar bakery.

Find ‘em: This truck really gets around. Check their website for this month’s locations.

Online: beanfish.net

Buns on Wheels

A burger and fries is always a crowd pleaser. When it comes served on a Macrina-baked brioche bun, topped with Beecher’s cheese and paired with truffle fries, it beats out typical fast food burger fare by a mile. Grabbing one is easy for Eastside families looking for gourmet street food. Don’t like beef? Choose chicken or salmon instead.

Noteworthy noshable: The Sammy. Wild-caught Alaskan salmon in burger form? Yes, please.

Find ‘em: The truck is parked outside Samena Swim Club (15231 Lake Hills Blvd.) in Bellevue every day. They serve dinner nightly from 5-8 p.m. and lunch from 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Fridays.

Online: buns-on-wheels.square.site

—Allison Sutcliffe

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Splash Down: Where Bay Area Kids Learn to Swim

by Sandra LeeMay 21, 2019

With summer just around the corner, the high temps are the perfect excuse to pack up the swim gear and hit the pool. Swim schools offer the right balance of fun, safety and skills to get even the littlest of swimmers used to the water. Whether your kid is a swimming pro or just barely starting to crawl, the Bay Area has tons of options to get kids in the water. Check out our list and find one near you!

photo: iStock

San Francisco

JCCSF
Featuring a four-time “Best on the Peninsula” award, the swim program at the Jewish Community Center is really top notch. Sessions start as young as 6 months with caregiver participation in the Water Babies class and move up to the Sharks class by the time they hit 12 years old. Private lessons, adult classes and swim teams are also available.

3200 California St.
San Francisco, CA
415-292-1200
Online: jccsf.org

SF Recreation & Parks
For those looking for swim classes at a super affordable price, check out the city’s recreation center. Tot classes start out at 6 months old and for less than $10 a session for 7-10 week sessions, it’s a great way to introduce your little one to the water. Pre-school and teen classes are also offered at varying levels. Registration is done online and tends to fill up fast. Once you get a spot, bring you own towels and gear to the pool.

501 Stanyan St.
San Francisco, CA
415-831-6800
Online: sfrecpark.org

Waterworks Aquatics
Located inside the City Sports Club, although not affiliated with it, this well-known swim school is all about teaching kids the basics right from the beginning in order to become a comfortable and proficient swimmer. Heated indoor pool makes getting in and out of the water comfortable, and a muscle memory teaching method is used to focus on technique. Private and semi-private lessons are offered as well a stroke clinic to teach more advanced, competitive swimming skills.

3291 20th Ave.
San Francisco, CA
408-279-1700
Online: waterworksswim.com

photo: platinumportfolio via Pixabay

La Petite Baleen
If looking to get even your youngest baby in the pool, this Presidio swim school (with other locations around the Bay) holds classes for as young as 2 months old. Toys and songs keep them happy and splashing, and the small class ratio and heated water are a win for both parents and babies. Older kids get experienced instructor sessions to build on skills and even competitive techniques. Complimentary family swim, free trial class and flexible makeups make this school one to check out.

933 Old Mason St.
San Francisco, CA
888-544-0240
Online: swimlpb.com

Presidio YMCA
Scattered throughout the Bay, YMCA has a great reputation for teaching kids how to swim. Group, private, semi-private lessons and summer sessions are offered as young as 6 months old and are taught by certified YMCA trained instructors. We especially like the option of Specialty Group Lessons for kids of similar age and ability, which can be an awesome way to learn to swim with friends.

63 Funston Ave.
San Francisco, CA
415-447-9622
Online: ymcasf.org

Pomeroy Recreation and Rehab Center
With programs named after adorable water animals like cuttlefish and penguins, kids as young as 6 months can have fun in the water with songs and playtime. What makes Pomeroy different is that they require an adult assist until the age of 5, so parents will be getting a lot of pool time alongside their mini me. While this might not suit everyone, the class is longer than other swim schools (45-60 minutes) and instructors can really focus on the progress of each kid.

207 Skyline Blvd.
San Francisco, CA
415-665-4100
Online: prrcsf.org

photo: PoolSafely via flickr

East Bay

YMCA Berkeley
Lessons at the Y are run year-round with special pricing for members and non-members. Locations in the East Bay include Berkeley, Oakland, Hilltop and Pleasant Hill. Good sized changing rooms and a children’s corner (for non-participating siblings) with books and toys makes the process easier. Sessions are an affordable option with certified instructors and members can take advantage of Family Swim so the whole crew can jump in!

2001 Allston Way
Berkeley, CA
510-848-9622
Online: ymcacba.org

East Bay Regional Park District
With locations in Antioch and Oakland, certified teachers make safety and fun their top priority. Lessons are grouped by age and ability, with the youngest session starting at 6 months old and moving all the up to age 13. Adaptive swim sessions and private lessons are also offered to those needing a more personalized lesson. Classes are 25 minutes long and meet for two consecutive weeks at both locations. Registration is online and there is even an app available on IOS for more information!

Roberts Pool
10570 Skyline Blvd.
Oakland, CA

Contra Loma Swim Lagoon
1200 Frederickson Ln.
Antioch, CA

510-690-6624
Online: eblifeguard.org

Safe Splash Swim School
As the nation’s leading learn-to-swim school, the Fremont location is one of 5 locations around the Bay. Olympic champion Missy Franklin has endorsed the curriculum, so you know your kids will be swimming with instructors of the highest standards. 12 unique teaching levels are offered as well as special needs swim and conditioning classes. There is also a cool Splash-N-Tell event every month where students can show off what they’ve learned in class.

39153 Farwell Dr.
Fremont, CA
510-319-9002
Online: safesplash.com

Albany Aquatic Center
With 2 pools (indoor and outdoor), classes at this Albany Unified School District owned center are held year round so kids can swim in any weather. Sessions begin at 6 months in the Tiny Tots and move all the way up to 14 years old in the Dolphin class. Private lessons and pre-swim team sessions are offered, as well as an adapted aquatics class for those with neurological, development and cognitive challenges. Swim camps are very popular and fill up fast!

1311 Portland Ave.
Albany, CA
510-559-6640
Online: albanyaquaticcenter.com

AquaTech Swim School
Owned and operated by a husband and wife team, this swim school with locations in Alameda and Concord is all about providing an exceptional experience not just for the swimmers, but the whole family. While top-notch instructors teach new and experienced swimmers, family members have access to indoor viewing rooms, food, children’s play area and private changing stalls. Classes start at young as 6 months in the Tadpoles group with monthly and drop-in options available. Pre-competitive, technique and private lessons are also available.

2203 Mariner Square Loop
Alameda, CA
866-633-4147
Online: aquatechswim.com

Aqua Adventure Park
Not only is this water park an awesome way to spend a hot afternoon with the kids, but it also offers some great swim lessons in a heated pool. Little ones as young as 6 months old can participate in the Parent and Me classes, with swim team prep also up for grabs. Each lesson is 25 minutes long and offered in 2-week sessions with Saturday availability. Private lessons and Saturday time slots fill up fast, so sign up if interested to reserve your spot!

40500 Paseo Padre Pkwy.
Fremont, CA
510-494-4426
Online: goaquaadventure.com

photo: adrit1 via pixabay

Peninsula

Giammona Pool
Part of city of Daly City, the indoor, heated swim facility has 11 lanes, therapy pool and even a classroom. Classes are grouped by age and ability starting at 6 months and go all the way up to age 13. Daly City residents get priority registration (all done online) for lessons and the cost is less than non-residents. Dressing rooms, showers and lockers are available; just bring your own lock to use. Semi-private lessons are also available for those interested.

131 Westmoor Ave.
Daly City, CA
650-991-8001
Online: dalycity.org

Anderson’s Swim School
This school has been teaching little ones to swim since 1975 and has an award-winning private swimming lesson program. The pool is heated to 90 degrees, which makes getting into the water year round pretty comfortable. All lessons are 30 minutes long and is parent-participation free. Since parents (or caregivers) are not allowed in the pool during class, students need to be at least 3 years old and potty trained. There is a ton of flexibility with scheduling, as there are no sessions, but open enrollment year round. Come once a week or everyday, it’s up to you!

541 Oceana Blvd.
Pacifica, CA
950-355-3050
Online: andersonsswim.com

King’s Swim Academy
With locations in San Mateo (original), San Carlos and Redwood City, King’s is a parent favorite for it’s flexible schedules, great instructors and easy makeups. Classes start at 4 months old in the Baby and Me Class to get little ones used to the water and advance from there based on age and ability. We love that makeups are easy, with the flexibility to take classes at the other locations as well. Family swim is also another highlight of the swim school and it’s free!

1119 Industrial Rd. Unit G
San Carlos, CA
650-349-7946
Online: kingsswimacademy.com

Peninsula Swim School
This Redwood City swim school is all about helping kids feel confident in the water, and have done so for decades. The school has a no fin/floaties policy, so swimmers learn proper technique from the start. The indoor/outdoor pool is heated to 92 degrees, which is win depending on weather conditions. Classes are grouped based on age and ability and start at just 3 months old. There is also the option to enroll in a free trial class to see if the school is a good fit.

1602 Stafford St.
Redwood City, CA
650-366-9211
Online: peninsulaswim.com

photo: Shipman Swim School via yelp

Shipman Swim School
With over 20 years of success teaching kids how to swim, this husband and wife team opened up this outdoor school in 2006. Pool safety is a top concern, and each class focuses not only on technique, but also the importance of being safe around water. Private lessons are offered 18 months to 3 years and then kids are able to move on to group lessons where the ratio is 3:1. Since it is an outdoor pool, lessons are held rain or shine and will only be canceled if there is thunder or hard rain.

229 W. 20^th Ave.
San Mateo, CA
650-345-7946
Online: shipmanswimschool.com

Aqua Sports Swim Academy
If a more personalized, one on one attention is what your little one needs in a swim school, Aqua Sports might be a good option. With either 1:1 or 2:1 student to teacher ratios, you can be sure swimmers are getting individualized attention in the pool. Classes are tailored to each child’s learning style and ability, with the goal to teach safety, life long skills and confidence in the water. Each class is 25 minutes long and sessions are in a pack of 8. No free trial is offered, so make sure the school is the right fit before signing up!

212 N. San Mateo Dr., Suite 3
San Mateo, CA
650-554-1340
Online: aquasportsswimacademy.com

photo: leoleobobeo via pixabay

South Bay

California Sports Center Aquatics Sunnyvale
The California Sports Center offers a variety of classes at various locations in the South Bay, but the Sunnyvale location is the only one that offers swim classes. The outdoor pool at Fremont High School has a great program in a fun and comfortable environment for the youngest of swimmers. Classes are 30 minutes long and start at just 6 months old in the Parent and Me class and go up to pre-competitive sessions. Specialty classes include youth water polo and springboard diving classes.

1283 Sunnyvale-Saratoga Rd.
Sunnyvale, CA
408-732-2257
Online: calsportscenter.com

Maki Swim School
This Montessori-based swim school is all about enabling every swimmer, at their own pace, to be confident and comfortable in the water. Classes start at just 3 months old in a playgroup type setting to get babies used in the water. After that, classes are mixed ages so siblings can swim together and everyone can learn from each other, also making scheduling super easy. Private, semi-private and group lessons are offered, with the max ratio for group classes being 3:1. There is even an option for custom scheduling to fit your family’s needs!

973 Apricot Ave.
Campbell, CA
408-358-7049
Online: makiswim.com

Waterworks Aquatics
With five locations offering year-round lessons in the South Bay (with the newest one in Blossom Hill), Waterworks Aquatics prides itself from teaching kids how to swim the right way, right from the beginning. A “muscle memory” method is used in order to teach proper stroke technique at a faster rate. Classes start at 2.5 years old and advance according to age and ability. Private and semi-private lessons are offered for more one-on-one instruction.

1045 E. Brokaw Rd.
San Jose, CA
408-279-1700
Online: waterworksswim.com

Almaden Valley Athletic Club
Hidden inside the Almaden Valley Athletic Club in San Jose, kids can learn to swim as well as have access to the athletic club facilities, a win/win for families. Year round lessons are offered in a custom built pool heated to 89 degrees. Free “Barnacles” classes are offered to infants 8 weeks to 4 months in a playgroup setting before moving up to the Starfish group. Classes are 30 minutes long and offered once a week. Specialty classes include pre-competitive, Red Cross Health and Safety, and special needs.

5400 Camden Ave.
San Jose, CA
408-457-0931
Online: avacswimschool.us

De Anza Cupertino Aquatics
DACA has been around since 1996, becoming an award winning school and favorite of Bay Area parents. Offering recreational, pre-competitive and competitive lessons for kids as young as 3 months old in the Water Babies Class, this Cupertino swim school has all the goods. Ribbon colors separate the different levels, with Gold Starfish Level being the highest level. Special needs classes are offered as well as private, semi-private, group and drop-in lessons. Swim camps are super popular!

1080 S. De Anza Blvd.
San Jose, CA
408-253-7946
Online: daca.org

photo: White77 via pixabay

Marin

Hamilton and Terra Linda Pools
These two community pools offer swim classes through the Happy Fish Swim School. Classes start at 6 months old in the Parent Tot class and move up from there. Class size ranges from 12:1 in the parent classes and 6:1 in the most advanced level. 3-day and 4-day sessions are available, as well as a Moderate and Intensive Sessions depending on what your kid needs. Private lessons are also an option and vary in price depending on residency. With so many options, there is a class that’s bound to be the right fit.

Hamilton Pool
203 El Bonito Dr.
Novato, CA
415-883-7126
Online: novato.org

Terra Linda Pool
670 Del Ganado Rd.
San Rafael, CA
415-485-3344
Online: cityofsanrafael.org

Osher Marin JCC Fitness & Aquatics Center
With lessons year round in a warm, 90-degree indoor pool, the JCC Aquatics program is one of the best in Marin. Classes are separated into Baby Swim and Kids Swim sessions to get the most out of lessons according to age and ability. Parents are in the water with little ones from 6 months to 3 years old before advancing out of baby swim lessons. Customized private and semi-private lessons are also available to schedule if looking for something a bit more one-on-one.

200 N. San Pedro Rd.
San Rafael, CA
415-444-8005
Online: marinjcc.org

Strawberry Recreation Pool
This aquatics facility offers a 5-lane, 25-yard pool as well as a shallow teaching pool. Swim lessons are offered in 30-minute time slots depending on age and ability. The Seedlings Program is for 6 months to 3 years old and requires a caregiver in the pool. It’s a gentle way to get your little one used to the water and it’s not intended to teach your baby to swim. The Sprouts and Youth Swim Program are great advanced lessons that teach proper technique and safety. Spots fill up fast so sign up soon!

118 E. Strawberry Dr.
Mill Valley, CA
415-383-6494
Online: strawberry.marin.org

Marinwood Aquatics
Not your average swim school, Marinwood Aquatics prides itself in getting to know your kid and teaching in a customized way so swimming is fun and worthwhile. Group lessons are offered June-August and private lessons are from April-October. Parent Tot classes are offered from 6 months to 3 years old before moving up. There are no specific classes designed for special needs kids, although the facility does have a hydraulic lift for those needing assistance getting in and out of the pool. Space is limited, so sign up early.

775 Miller Creek Rd.
San Rafael, Ca
415-479-2335
Online: marinwood.org

Ann Curtis School of Swimming
Originally set up by Olympic swimmer Ann Curtis, this San Rafael swim school offers intensive 2-week sessions for a total of 8 lessons, each 30 minutes long. The three outdoor pools helps keep simultaneous lessons well spread out, and the 4:1 student to teacher ratio means kids get to practice their skills in a small class. There is no Parent and Me classes offered, as the minimum student age is 4 years old. The Swim Club is located alongside the swim school and is open to families and friends to play and swim.

25 Golden Hinde Blvd.
San Rafael, CA
415-479-9131
Online: anncurtis.com

—Sandra Lee, Sabrina Martire, Olivia Boler, Sabine Klensch and Emily Myers

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Saved By the Bell: After-School Classes for the Elementary Set

by Kate LowethJanuary 14, 2018

While the school day may be limited to subjects like math, science, spelling and reading, learning doesn’t have to end when the kids leave the classroom. Develop some mad fencing skills, learn how to sew or find out what zookeepers do all day at an after school class near you. Kids work on physical skills and bonus, they might make some new friends at the same time!

Photo: AcroSports

San Francisco

Kids looking to increase their flexibility and have some fun while doing it will definitely find a class at AcroSports that suits them. From gymnastics to tumbling, from parkour to clowning, kids of all ages will expend some of their cooped-up energy while learning some new tricks.

At The Butterfly Joint, a woodworking studio for kids, little wood workers put on tiny custom aprons, clock in on the vintage punch clock and start work when they hear the sound of the steam whistle. Veteran teacher and professional wood worker Danny Montoya has already gained a reputation for schooling his charges not only in the art of sanding, cutting and chiseling, but in manners, problem-solving and focus.

Blossoming artists and anthropologists alike will love the de Young museum’s Art After School program. These one-day-a-week classes for kids aged 6 to 13 delve into the museum’s art collections from around the world, and teach kids about the connection between art and culture. Hands-on art making is part of each class which are taught by professional teaching artists.

Kids hoping to catch major air on their skateboards or snowboards will benefit from being taught stunt safety and “air awareness” at the House of Air Training Ground. Bounce on in with your trampoliners-in-training for an open jump session, and you’ll all be hooked.

Mini-Matisses can explore with paint, clay, photography, and more at San Francisco Children’s Art Center, located at Fort Mason. There are several classes offered each weekday evening, allowing families greater flexibility.

The San Francisco Fencers Club promises to provide a mental workout as well as a physical one to children as young as 5. With locations in the city and in Belmont, SF and Peninsula dwellers can feint, glide, and parry their way to victory.

Photo: Trackers

East Bay

Berkeley, Albany, and Oakland students who crave the great outdoors (or are big fans of the Hunger Games) will find their happy place with Trackers after-school programs. From various school locations, the kids head to a local park with a Trackers instructor. The afternoon’s activities could include archery, wood-carving, pickling, storytelling, wilderness survival skills…as long as it can be done outdoors.

Your mini-Freddie Mercury may love to unleash his voice at home, but what if he were given the opportunity to foster his love of music and performance under professional tutelage? The highly-esteemed Pacific Boys Choir of Piedmont supports these budding belters while they learn music theory and voice control, along with teamwork and citizenship. Bonus: they now have a choir for girls ages 8-13 called Sorella, meaning “sister.”

There are a myriad of after-school martial arts programs around the bay, but the students of the East Bay Judo Institute are an impressive bunch. The staff at the El Cerrito facility, which includes Olympic coaches, athletes, and hopefuls, provides a safe and structured environment for children to push their physical boundaries while learning self-discipline and emotional control.

The team behind Berkeley’s Cal Camps (which kids and parents rave about, come summertime) also put on a series of after-school classes. Whether it’s swimming, gymnastics or archery that your little Bear-in-training been’s wanting to try, the supportive Cal staff will introduce challenging concepts in a safe and supportive way.

Photo: Iadinka via Flickr

North Bay

Parents are huge fans of swim lessons the Osher Marin Jewish Community Center. In addition to the five levels of classes offered, there’s also swim club for children who want to exercise their competitive muscles.

Creative kids get to play with making pottery, painting, decoupage, sewing and more at Doodlebug’s San Anselmo studio. They even dabble in teaching kids mindfulness—because how can they interpret the world around them without learning to be in the moment?

Whether your little twirler is just looking to start out in a tutu, or they are ready to take steps towards becoming a serious dancer, San Rafael’s Marin Dance Theatre affords kids a chance to let their inner prima ballerina soar.

Tucked along Lucas Valley Road in Marinwood are several tennis courts, where kids can learn tennis fundamentals, or, when they’re more advanced, join a league for some friendly competitive play.

Photo: Ondřej Špaček via Flickr

Peninsula

Mini songstresses from 6 and up will sing a variety of music when they join the Peninsula Girls Chorus. This Burlingame-based choral organization is in its third decade of empowering young women to find their voice, and just won “The Best of Burlingame” (Musician category) for the ninth year in a row.

With locations in Belmont, Sunnyvale, and San Francisco, Planet Granite shows kids the ropes, literally, and offers a workout so fun they won’t even realize how hard they’re working. Bonus: they also offer a Parents’ Night Off on the second and fourth Fridays of the month where you can leave your little climbers to get tired out while you grab a peaceful bite to eat.

Minecraft-obsessed minis will happily create their own video game worlds after attending one of Digital Monkey’s after-school classes. Littles learn 2D and 3D animation, as well as game design in the Belmont studio’s hour-long classes.

Photo: Kate Loweth

South Bay

Too much time sitting at desk making the kids stir-crazy? Bay Area Movement Parkour can solve that problem for you. They a flexible schedule offer parkour/freerunning classes for kids aged 5 and up every day of the week. Mini ninja warriors will learn balance and agility and will leave each class sweaty and tired!

Aspiring zookeepers can get up-close-and-personal with anteaters, zebus, meerkats and more at Happy Hollow’s after school class program.

Little rock stars can learn what it feels like to perform for a crowd at School of Rock’s after school program. With classes offered in San Jose, Palo Alto, San Mateo and San Ramon, aspiring musicians learn how to play the guitar, bass, keyboards or drums. Each class ends in a group jam session at a local music venue.

One of the best advantages you can give your child is the gift of another language. While yours may not be a bilingual household, there are after-school language instruction and immersion options at many Bay Area schools. Education Française Bay Area offers an affordable option for bilingual education at 17 locations in all corners of the Bay Area.

(Aside from the gems on this list, be sure to check in with your local parks and recreation department for their after-school offerings, as well as the local school’s after-school enrichment programs. Many offer everything from theater to roller hockey, chess to guitar, and often you don’t need to be enrolled at the school to sign up.)

Got a favorite after school program that we didn’t mention here? Leave your praise in the comments.

—Kate Loweth & Sarah Bossenbroek

Dive in at LA’s Best Public Pools

by kate feltonMay 29, 2017

That plastic backyard tub isn’t cutting it. You didn’t pony up the mega bucks to belong to a private swim club this summer. But you really gotta cool off! So we rounded up the best pools that are all clean, have amazing kid features and don’t require memberships. From Glendale to Santa Clarita, these are our favorite places to take the plunge.

photo: Mandy H. via Yelp

Santa Clarita Aquatics Center
What’s better than a great pool? Three! The Aquatic Center has a 50 meter competition pool, a 25 meter dive pool and an activity pool complete with water play goodies and a 160 foot water slide. The facility also provides concessions and locker/changing rooms on the landscaped and lighted grounds. With plenty of parking and ample deck space for lounging around, the Aquatic Center has something for everyone, and is worth a drive for the day even if it’s not your local splash spot. The shallow end is shallow enough to let the little kids play without life jackets, and it gradually deepens to the roped off deep end that has two life guards for more proficient swimmers. Keep an eye out for extra events like Dive In movie nights ($10 per person).

Cost: $4 kids and $6 for adults (free for kids under 3)

20850 Centre Pointe Parkway
Santa Clarita
Online: santa-clarita.com/city-hall/departments/parks-recreation-and-community-services/recreation/aquatics

photo: Anthony Crider via Creative Commons

John C. Aruge Expo Center
Right behind the Coliseum is a giant swim stadium with both a competition pool and a shallow wading pool that is easy to navigate with toddlers. We love that you can spend the morning at the California Science Center or Natural History Museum, picnic in the Rose Garden and then splash and swim all afternoon. Note that kids 4 & under are required to wear a swim diaper and kids 6 & under are required to have an adult (one adult per child) with them at all times.

Cost: $1 for kids, $3.50 for adults.

3980 Bill Robertson Lane
Exposition Park
Online: laparks.org/expo/pdf/aquaticProgram.pdf

photo: Dee C. via Yelp

Santa Monica Swim Center
This clean and welcoming facility does get a little crowded in the summer time because it’s such a great spot to swim. The Santa Monica Swim Center has two heated outdoor pools: one is reserved for classes and lap swim, which means the other is open season for your little fish. There are also several diving boards for your slightly bigger fish. Be sure to check out the pool’s monthly Family Days. The hours for recreational swim shift with the seasons so check the website for updated scheduling information. There are discounted fees for Santa Monica residents, so be sure to bring proof of residency, if that applies.

Another great Santa Monica pool is the Stoner Park Pool, which you can learn more about on our list of great splash pads.

Cost: For Santa Monica residents it’s $1.50 for kids and $3.50 for adults; for non-residents the rates are doubled. Family and 20-visit passes are also available.

2225 16th St.
Santa Monica
Online: santamonicaswimcenter.org

Culver City Plunge at Veterans’ Park
This beloved by locals 40,000 square-foot spot boasts both an Olympic size pool, a heated competition pool, and even a diving board, for kids that can pass the swim test and are at least 4 feet tall (those under must be accompanied in the pool by and adult at all times). For all day fun, it’s conveniently located next to a park with a playground, baseball field and basketball courts.

Cost: $2.50 for kids and $4 for adults. You can also rent the pool out for parties!

4175 Overland Ave.
Culver City
Online: culvercity.org/enjoy/recreation/culver-city-pool

photo: flattop341 via Creative Commons

San Fernando Regional Pool
Since the SFV is where you really need to keep cool in the summer, it’s lucky that they have this amazing 3-acre venue. It’s two great pools; one specifically for kids with slides and water fountains. There’s a shade structure and grassy spots for when you need a water break. It has two pools. You can also watch the water polo and synchronized swim teams practice!

Cost: $1 for kids, $3.50 for adults

208 Park Ave.
San Fernando
Online: parks.lacounty.gov/wps/portal/dpr/Parks/San_Fernando_Regional_Pool

Westwood Community Pool
This heated indoor pool is small and impeccably clean. They offer great family swim hours and are open year round. With plenty of elbow room and a wide splash zone, it’s a great spot to expose your first time swimmers to the water. The hours do change seasonally, so check the website for updated information. We love Family Nights on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 7-9 p.m., where parents who work can still get in a weekday swim with the kids on these long summer nights.

Cost: $1 for kids, $3.50 for adults

1350 Sepulveda Blvd.
Westwood
Online: laparks.org/dos/aquatic/pdf/poolPrg/westwoodSum.pdf

photo: Jennifer G. via Yelp

Rustic Canyon Pool
Nestled in the middle of the beautiful Rustic Canyon Park, this pool is a little-known gem. Small and well maintained, it is unheated and only open during the summer. A picnic in the park, a dip in the pool, and hike in the woods makes for a perfect summer afternoon. Check website for an up-to-date schedule.

Cost: $1 for kids, $3.50 for adults

601 Latimer Rd.
Pacific Palisades
Online: laparks.org/dos/aquatic/facility/rusticCanyonPool.htm

Pacific Community Pool
Our favorite things about this pool is the amazing shallow end, which is big enough for plenty of not-ready-for-the-Olympics swimmers and the lifeguards. What is it about Glendale, that they have the nicest lifeguards? Also fabulous, is that nearby you have a playground and library, should you want to make a day of it. And if you want to extend that day to night, you’re right near Golden Road Brewery, the single most kid friendly spot to grab a beer in town. Cheers to summer beers! Recreation swim hours are typically in the afternoon, but check the website the day you plan to go, as they can change.

Cost: It’s $.50 for kids and $3 for adults; you can also buy 15-visit ($6-$36) or unlimited visit ($20-$75) passes for the summer.

509 S. Pacific Ave.
Glendale
Online: glendaleaquatics.com

Hubert H. Humphrey Pool
It’s always hot in the valley, and the Hubert H. Humphrey pool is adjacent to the park with a children’s play area, picnic tables and basketball courts, so you’ll always be ready to dive in here. Plus the pool is open year round, and there’s a water slide! Check the website for summer hours.

Cost: $1 for kids, $3.50 for adults.

12560 Filmore St.
Pacoima
Online: laparks.org/dos/aquatic/facility/hubertHumphPool.htm

photo: Rosebowl Aquatic Center

Rosebowl Aquatics
Open year round, the Rosebowl Aquatics is a beautiful facility. With family swim evenings and summer camps there is much more to do here than just taking a splash. Kids love to watch the divers and water polo teams practice or play at the fantastic pirate themed park right behind the pools when they’re tired of swimming. The hours for recreational and family swim change seasonally, so check the website for a current schedule. Kids under 8 must be accompanied by an adults in the pool with a 1:1 ratio, so don’t plan on bringing a carload of new swimmers here solo!

Cost: Kids are $1, adults are $2.

360 North Arroyo Blvd
Pasadena
Online: rosebowlaquatics.com

photo: Meghan Rose

Annenberg Community Beach House
The Beach House pool is one of the few remaining features from the original Marion Davies estate. Your family is sure to soak up some sunshine and old Hollywood glamor at this beautiful beach side spot. Those under 8 must be accompanied in the water by an adult at all times, so if you are hoping to lounge poolside like a 1920’s starlet, bring along another grownup. Hours change seasonally, and passes sell out quickly, so check out the website for advance passes and reservations (you can even reserve a parking spot) before planning your visit. You can also get food by the pool, play on the playground, stroll the beach and splash in the pad. (These are the cleanest public pool bathrooms we’ve yet to see, and that alone lands it on our list!) Note that this pool has no shallow end, so it’s not a spot where tiny tots can splash and play alone.

Cost: $4 per kid, $10 per adult. Parking is $12 for the day. Mondays in the summer are Half Off Admission days and no reservations are available.

415 Pacific Coast Highway
Santa Monica
Online: beachhouse.smgov.net

Insider’s Tip: All Los Angeles County pools require that an adult accompany any kids under 7 on a one-to-one ratio, so be sure to grab one grown-up per munchkin. Also, many city run pools offer a discount with a city library card, so double check your pockets before heading out. Most LA County pools are open by June 10, 2017; all are open by June 17. Call for hours and open dates at your local pool!

Still want more ways to splash? How about:
Dive in to these all natural swimming holes.
Play in the water without swimming at these splash pads.
Spend the day at at family friendly beach.
Splash through a fountain in the middle of the city.

Where will your toes be dipping this summer?

—Kate Felton & Meghan Rose

Guppies and Pikes: Splash-tastic Summer Swim Teams

by Gabby CullenJune 1, 2013

Swim little fish swim! If your kid has dreams of making it onto the illustrious Wheaties Box, what better way to start the journey than joining a recreational summer swim team? Not only will they be able to enjoy the water on those hot summer days, but they’ll get their daily dose of exercise and be able to enjoy a sport that is available to anyone willing to don a suit and jump right in. Events like Swim-a-Thons and Pasta Power Nights are often the norm, making it fun for the whole family. Indulge your future Michael Phelps or Dana Torres by finding the right team, at the right level.

San Francisco

Rossi Manta Rays Swim Team
This super successful year-round team has summer hours and participates in the recently created San Francisco Summer Swim League. Swimmers will also learn how to give back to others, during the summer months, members help out with the San Francisco Parks and Rec Learn-to-Swim program. Many kiddos in San Francisco have learned the stroke basics with help from the Manta Rays.

Rossi Manta Rays Swim Team

Rossi Pool

600 Arguello Boulevard

San Francisco, Ca

Dates: Registration open now

Online: rossiswimteam.blogspot.com

The MLK, Jr. Blue Dolphins
This year-round competitive swim team strives to make the sport available to all interested kids, regardless of background and economic status. They participate in the SF Summer Swim League and came in second in 2011.

MLK, Jr. Pool

5701 Third Street

San Francisco, Ca

Dates: Ongoing

Online: mlkbsf.org

Balboa Sharks
With classes for both pre-schoolers and adults, everyone will be cruising through the water after a summer with the sharks. They cover everything from breath exercises to basic strokes in their classes, making them great for swimmers of all skill levels. Families wanting to join the Balboa Sharks need to have an account with the San Francisco Parks and Rec prior to signing up.

Balboa Sharks

51 Havelock Street

San Francisco, Ca

Dates: Registration open now

Online: sfrecpark.org/BalboaSpring

Marin County

Novato Riptide
Northern Marin kiddos will get a kick out being part of the Novato Riptide, which calls the pool at Indian Valley College home. they have fun events such as the Bring Your Parents to Swim Day.

Novato Riptide

Indian Valley College Campus

Ignacio Boulevard

Novato, Ca

Dates: Open Registration ends June 1st, 2013

Online: novatoriptide.org

Marinwood Waterdevils

This team in central Marin is tons of family fun. With the Tadpole program for swimmers ages 4-6 operating in tandem to the Waterdevils, ages 4-18, the little beginners will “graduate” to the swim team when they have the skills. Bingo Night, Pasta Power Night and and team BBQ’s throughout the summer will bring the whole gang together for unforgettable family nights.

Cool Bonus: Hot Chocolate Fridays! A great incentive to get the kiddos working hard.

Marinwood Waterdevils

Marinwood Community Center

775 Miller Creek Road

San Rafael, Ca

Dates: Open Registration ends April 30th, 2013

Online: waterdevils.org

Terra Linda Orcas
The very first team in the Marin Swim League, the Orcas enjoy practice in a fabulously modern 8 lane pool. Little kids trying their hand at swimming will love the Junior Orcas program. Parents will love the adults only Wine and Cheese night, and everyone will have a blast at the Meet and Greet BBQ and Dance!

Terra Linda Orcas

Terra Linda Recreation Center

670 Del Ganado Road

San Rafael, Ca

Dates: Open Registration ends July 13th, 2013

Onliner: tlorca.org

Strawberry Seals
One of Mill Valley’s summer swim teams, not only do these kiddos get to swim to their hearts content but there are super cool outings too, such as the Stinson Beach BBQ and the field trip to Raging Waters in San Jose. The seals have two practice locations but hurry to join up, this squad is nearly at full capacity!

Strawberry Seals

Strawberry Recreation Center

118 East Strawberry Drive

Mill Valley, Ca

Dates: Open Registration ends on July 13th, 2014

Online: strawberryseals.com

Tamalpais High School Pool

700 Miller Avenue

Mill Valley, Ca

Online: strawberryseals.com

FYI: These teams are part of the Marin Swim League, check out the full list for a team near you!

East Bay

Warm Springs Gators
This team is part of the East Bay Swim League, which touts over 30 years of swimming kiddos under it’s belt. Although practices have already started, there are still spots open for those hoping to join a summer league.

FYI: Don’t live near the Warm Springs Gators home pad? Check out other teams in the East Bay Swim League.

Warm Springs Gators

251 Goldenrain Avenue

Fremont, Ca

Dates: Registration is now

Online: wsgators.org

Berkeley Barracudas
This year-round team has been supporting little swimmers since the 70’s. Since it’s a monthly fee, you can get your kiddo in the water for the summer months. There are two summer swim practices, so your guppie will be a pro at those strokes in no time.

Berkeley Barracudas

King Pool

1700 Hopkins Street

Berkeley, Ca

West Campus Pool

2100 Browning Street

Berkeley, Ca

Dates: Ongoing

Online: berkeleybarracudas.org

Walnut Creek Swim Club
This summer swim program also offers the Starfish Program for beginning swimmers, starting at age 3. The summer rounds out with an awesome championship meet in August.

Walnut Creek Swim Club

Las Lomas High School

1460 South Main Street

Walnut Creek, Ca

Dates: Open Registration ends on May 31st, 2013

Online: teamunify.com

Dublin Green Gators
Practice starts on May 31st and summer swimmers will compete against other teams in the Dublin and Pleasanton area like the Briarhill Barracudas, the FAST Dolphins and more! Parents interested in getting their kiddos signed up must do so through the Dublin Parks and Rec program, see here for more info.

Did you know? There are seven more teams in the Tri-Valley Swim League, check out the full list for the team near you!

Dublin Green Gators
Dublin Swim Center
8157 Village Parkway, Dublin, Ca
Dates: Registration is open now
Online: sites.google.com/a/dublingreengators.com

South Bay/Peninsula

Swim South Bay
Lucky members of the Swim South Bay team will travel to Lake Tahoe for a 4th of July meet! Parents will be stoked on a the one week trial offer, if the kiddo doesn’t dig the water, they don’t lose their registration money.

Swim South Bay

Presentation High School Pool

2281 Plummer Avenue

San Jose, Ca

Dates: Open registration ends on July 1st, 2013

Online: swimsouthbay.org

Pinehurst Cabana Club

886 Lewiston Avenue

San Jose, Ca

Osprey Aquatics
This is a year-round competitive team that offers a summer swim league too. Members of this swim league will get a blast out of the annual Family Day and Swim-a-Thon.

Osprey Aquatics

Willow Glen High School

2001 Cottle Avenue

San Jose, Ca

Dates: Registration is almost full, contact coaches for more info.

Online: ospreyaquatics.com

Peninsula Swim Association

This summer swim group has six teams swimming in the water. Which team is the best fit for your family? Fremont Hills Barracudas, Alpine Hills, University Club, SCRA Summer Swim Team, Ladera Oaks and the Foothills Dolphins.

What is your go-to summer swim team? We want to know!

–Gabrielle Cullen

Picture #1: Little Swimmer Courtesy of Evoo73 via Flickr

Picture #2: Swim Team Fun Courtesy of JMurawski via Flickr

Picture #3: Diving Courtesy of EricSurfdude via Flickr

Picture #4: Jump Courtesy of Terren in Virgina via Flickr

ML Interest Tag: swim-club

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