It seems like trampoline parks are popping up all over the Seattle area. And with each new opening, a parent smiles knowing their energetic kiddo has a brand new spot to bounce off the walls that’s not in the living room. Whether you and the kids are training to become the next American Ninja Warrior or just looking for a place to burn off some steam, these indoor adventure parks are a great afternoon outing for kids of all ages. Read on to find a new favorite indoor play spot.

New Spots to Know

Flying Squirrel

trampoline-parks-seattle
Marcella M. via Yelp

With one of the best company names out there, Flying Squirrel Sports in Everett opened a few months ago. They call it a “spring-loaded, urban playground like you’ve never seen before,” and they're right. Beyond the wall-to-wall trampolines, families can challenge each other on the battle beam, dunk hoops together like they're pro ballers, spring off the air track, balance on the slack lines and generally get their bounce on. When you've worked up an appetite, swing by the Drey Bar and Café where you'll find a full menu of pizza (including gluten-free), drinks and treats. We love that there's a special spot for tots here (and pricing too). Littles will spend hours climbing, jumping and rolling around toddler soft play park. One thing is for sure, they'll nap after a visit to this new venue.

Park perk: If the kids need a change of pace, check out the on-site indoor mini golf course and arcade. 

Cost: $16-26; $11/hr, toddlers
Hours: Mon., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Tue.-Thu., 3-9 p.m.; Fri, 3-9 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m.-9 p.m.

1325 S.E. Everett Mall Way, Suite A
Everett, WA  98208
425-297-1950
Online: flyingsquirrelsports.us

Catapult Adventure Park

trampoline park seattle, bouncy house seattle, indoor playground seattle
Angelina R. via Yelp

Another new kid on the block, Catapult Adventure Park might be the grand daddy of all on our list. This mega-size location offers 18 different experiences, some that are familiar and some that are totally new. Inflatables are the name of the game here with everything from the Launch Zone to the Ninja Cat Course to Mt. Catapult and the Leaping Leopard. But you'll also find ball pits, tornado twirls and oversized slides that set this park apart. We're loving Tube-Topia that mixes everything you love about winter tubing but without the snow. Rock climbing walls, zip lines and open courts that invite everyone to jump will tire the kids out whenever you visit. They'll be bouncing from one spot to the next. All you have to do is keep up.

Park perk: Fuel up with pizzas, wings, cheesy bread sticks or sweets on site.

Good to know: There are some height restriction on a few of the attractions. Kids must be at least 42" tall to try the Cat Walk, Cliffhanger, Tube-Topia and Flying Leopard. Also there's an $8 spectator fee if you don't want to jump but still need to hang with the kids.

Cost: $12-$25
Hours: Mon.-Thu., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri. & Sat., 10 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun. noon-9 p.m.

35025 Enchanted Pkwy. S.
Federal Way, WA 98003
253-517-5853
Online: catapultfederalway.com

The Air House Adventure Park

trampoline parks seattle
The Air House

The Air House begins with a main court featuring 2,000 feet of trampolines and thousands more fun activities. Activities range from bouldering walls and a laser tag arena to your favorite trampoline park regulars. You’ll also finds log rolls, jousting on the battle beams, a racing zip line and the Valo Jump (think Dance Dance Revolution meets trampoline park). We know your kids will be most impressed (and challenged by) the Wipeout. Inspired from the hit TV obstacle course series of the same name, kids will fall over laughing trying to avoid being knocked off this spot. While walk-ins are welcome, we recommend that you purchase tickets ahead of time. Groups are allowed to play every 15 minutes. Sorry, no outside food can be brought inside, but don't worry, the GrubHouse offers 12” pizzas, sandwiches, hot dogs, fish and chips, mac and cheese and more to satiate hungry tummies.

Park perk: The Softplay area designed for kids 48" and under. It's a multi-level climbing structure where kids can play safely under a parent's watchful eye.

Cost: $8-$30 (Airhouse grip socks are required and are sold separately.)
Hours: Wed.-Thu., 5-8 p.m.; Fri., 4-9 p.m., Sat., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., noon-6 p.m.

1101 Outlet Collection Way, #1275
Auburn, WA 98002
253-943-6770
Online: auburn.theairhouse.com

Cool Spots That Are Always a Hit

DEFY

trampoline-parks-seattle-defy
Terry R. via Yelp

DEFY has taken over Seattle with four locations and a keen eye for planning. These exciting trampoline parks cater to the young and the young at heart (trust us). While each spot has its own unique flair and wicked wall art, families can always count on a fantastic array of trampolines, including wall tramps, air tracks and dodgeball courts. Skills are at the center of each location too. So whether you're working on your ninja skills or your aerial trick skills, kids will find what they need here in the form of launch pads, trapeze bars and cloud swings. Your kids will have a blast trying new circus tricks at every unique play station. Think this park is just for big kids? Think again, check the calendar for Kids Jump, where Littles ages 6 and under get the whole park to themselves so they can bounce without worrying, and so can you.

Park perk: DEFY Nights are a great way to add a little flair to your typical evening routine. Blacklights shine a whole new light on the jumping experience after dark. 

Cost: $13-$26

DEFY Seattle
455 Andover Park E.
Tukwila, WA 98188
425-669-9707

Hours: Mon.-Thu., 9 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri. 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat. 10 a.m.-11 p.m.; Sun. 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

DEFY Tacoma
1680 S. Mildred St.
Tacoma, WA 98465
253-300-3499

Hours: Mon.-Sat., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

DEFY Olympia
7960 Center St. S.W.
Olympia, WA 98501
360-338-6786

Hours: Mon.-Thu., 9 a.m.-9 p.m.; Fri. 9 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sat. 10 .m.-11 p.m.; Sun. 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

DEFY Silverdale
2222 N.W. Bucklin Hill Rd. 100
Silverdale, WA 98383
360-499-3600

Hours: Mon. 11-a.m.-7 p.m.; Tue. 10:45 a.m.-7 p.m.; Wed-Thu. 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Fri.-Sat. 11 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

Online: defy.com

Elevated Sportz

Elevated Sportz via Yelp

One of Seattle's OG trampoline parks, Bothell's Elevated Sportz has been entertaining families since they opened almost a decade ago. When it's raining outside, or your kids just need a change of scenery, bring them here to experience 10,000 sq. ft. of trampolines, dodgeball courts, foam pits and ninja courses. While we know the Littles will swoon over the Kidz Adventure play area, rumor has it, big kids love this spot too. It's four stories of ball pits, slides, tunnels, bridge and mazes that'll keep them climbing all afternoon. The great thing about this park is its variety. Kids can choose trampolines, Kidz Adventure or a combo of both, depending on your kiddo's age and the time you've got to play. The park’s iJump Café is also elevated from others, offering a large menu of sharable snacks, burgers, quesadillas, salads and more.

Park perk: For a new twist, try the Laser Maze (starting at $3 for one mission). It's a chance for kids to play spy (or maybe ninja?) as they work their way through the dense laser forest. Will they have the wit and speed to get through in time? You'll have to play to find out.  

Cost: $16-$26
Hours: Mon., 11- a.m.-7 p.m.; Tue. & Wed., 3-7 p.m.; Fri. & Sat., 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

18311 Bothell Everett Hwy., #140
Bothell, WA 98012
425-949-4488
Online: elevatedsportz.com

Vertex Arena

trampoline parks seattle
Vertex Arena via Yelp

In our ever-changing world, Vertex Arena wants to be a beacon of hope. A place that connects kids through the power of play, offering a space that is appealing to the eye, whether you are five or 55. Located in Redmond, Vertex Arena offers a little bit of everything with their mix of indoor trampoline park attractions. You'll find lots of trampolines, sure, but you'll also find air basketball, battle beams and a ninja course to tackle (some of these attractions have height restrictions). Big kids can try their hand at Nerf Tag (ages 8 & up) or Arrow Tag (ages 12 & up), while most kids can enjoy the head-to-head-competition of dodgeball (ages 5 & up). The Sideline Social Restaurant and Bar offers a full menu (probably the best on our list) of appetizers, sliders, chicken wings, salads, pizza, cheeseburgers, chicken strips, fish and chips and fantastic-sounding desserts.

Park perk: Check out the new pinball and arcade center that recently opened. 

Good to know: The popular KidVenture play area is currently unavailable.

Cost: $17-$30
Hours: Wed., 2-7 p.m.; Thu., 3-7 p.m.; Fri., 3-8 p.m.; Sat., 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

10700 231st Way N.E., #100
Redmond, WA  98053
425-728-7298
Online: vertexarena.com

Pump It Up

trampoline park, indoor playground

In Kirkland, Pump It Up is known as the original indoor inflatable party venue. Although you won’t find traditional trampolines here, there are still plenty of obstacles to climb in, jump on, slide down and generally bounce around on. In fact, when it comes to bouncing around with younger kids, this venue is one of the best. Both the Kirkland and Lynnwood locations are currently offering Pre-K jump sessions for preschoolers and toddlers. And kids of all ages get a kick out of the All Ages Open Jumps. Hours for both vary by location and change weekly. The upside? They're both taking online reservations, so you can plan ahead for an afternoon of off the wall fun with your stir crazy crew. Psst... Family Jump Night is back at both locations. Check the online schedules to plan your next family outing. 

Park perk: Pump It Up has long been a reliable indoor birthday party spot for kids. Both locations offer birthday party packages for 10-25 kids, and are available every day from 8 a.m.-9 p.m. Prices start at $240 for 10 kids. What could be easier?

Cost: $8-$10
Hours: vary by location and week

11605 N.E. 116th St.
Kirkland, WA 98034
425-820-2297
Online: pumpitupparty.com

18027 Highway 99, Suite J
Lynnwood, WA  98037
425-774-2297
Online: pumpitupparty.com

Good to Know:

1. Currently, everyone over the age of five is being asked to wear a mask. Don’t leave home without it.

2. Socks are required at all locations. Left them at home? You can buy a pair at the park.

3. Many of these trampoline parks require signed waivers for kids to play, and most have an online option so you can sign before you’re even through the door. It’s a great way to save time when your kids are anxious to play.

4. Most venues offer membership packages that could save your family a heap of cash if you think multiple visits are in your future.

5. Every location on this list offers birthday party packages. So if an indoor birthday bash is on your kiddo’s wish list, any of these spots will be happy to help.

—Jeffery Totey

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What’s cozier than drinking your fave coffee and enjoying a donut? Doing all of that while wearing a onesie!

Dunkin’ has heard the cry of its people and made many of its fan fave merch products available long-term on the ShopDunkin.com website. That’s right, the coveted Dunkin’ Onesie made of 100 percent poly flannel is back, and its not for your baby.

While several products are currently sold out, there is still plenty of gear to grab to outfit yourself in major donut duds. You can snag several pairs of pajama pants, sweatshirts and sweat pants, bride and groom gear (we are SERIOUS), pet bandanas and more.

Event better, you get free shipping on ALL orders, which ship in just six to eight days. We aren’t sure how (if ever) Dunkin’ restocks sold out items, so if you see a must-have donut product, grab it before it’s gone.

––Karly Wood

All photos: Courtesy of Dunkin’

 

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A superhero squad today, a band of bandits tomorrow, you never know where your kids’ imaginations are going to lead them. In order to help you be fully prepped, we’ve pulled together the ultimate list of kids’ dress-up clothes. Filled with supplies and props (most of which you probably already have) that will keep their minds engaged and active, keep reading to find out what should be in your dress-up box.

Adult Stuff to Put in the Dress-Up Box

Frank McKenna via Unsplash

Glasses & Sunglasses
Put on the perfect pair for instant rock star status!

Scarves & Ties
Tie one on, add Dad's old vest, and you've got a professor or school teacher.

Jewelry
All those old Mardi Gras beads will look great dangling around their necks.

Sports Jerseys
What's an impromptu game without the proper sports attire?

Formal Wear
When your kids want to host their fancy ball, old bridesmaid dresses (you'll NEVER wear it again), short dresses, suit jackets, white gloves and bowties fit the bill.

Shoes & Boots
There's just something awesome about wearing Mom and Dad's shoes.

Kid's Stuff to Put in the Dress-Up Box

Monstera via Pexels

Old Halloween Costumes
Get your money's worth from those high-priced outfits.

Hats
There are so many options: sun hats, winter hats, cowboy hats and more.

Princess & Dance
crowns, tutus, ballet slippers, leg warmers, or old recital costumes, need we say more?

Hand-Me-Down Clothes
Let your tykes sport the stuff that's still too big but too irresistible to put in storage.

Dress-Up Clothes for Kids You Can Buy (& Other Stuff)

Amina Filkins via Pexels

Toys
If you don't already have them on hand, a doctor or veterinarian kit, a toy microphone, a cash register or any other open-ended play items are best bets.

Hawaiian Leis & Feather Boa
No dress-up box is complete without one (or both) of these. We love these affordable options for leis and these colorful boas

Jump Rope 
They'll use it to harness their horses, turn themselves into a train, or even rope imaginary cattle. Snag one here

Stuff You Have Around the House to Add

Pexels

Cardboard Boxes
Probably one of the most awesome and free props of all time, a big box transforms into a spaceship, a boat, or an eight-wheel truck. See our favorite ideas here

Linens & Tapestry
Sheets, pillowcases, and towels make for super-easy capes and ballgowns. Also, you can set the stage by throwing sheets over chairs and furniture to make a fort or cave for little explorers. Or, drape colorful tablecloths and tapestry to make exotic locales.

Play Money
Pull from the Monopoly game for free!

Backpacks, Purses & More
Old wallets, handbags, and last year’s school backpack are all perfect for stashing treasures.

Office Equipment
Your CEO-in-training will have her startup business running in no time with old calculators, briefcases, staplers, keys, and computer keypads.

Other Props
Other items, such as phones, baby bottles, kitchen utensils, mixing bowls, yardsticks, stethoscopes, old notepads, office stamps, and old passports are great additions to the dress-up bin; you never know who your kids will feel like being today!

With many schools going back to virtual learning this month (BIG SIGH), it’s a good time to have a check-in about the do’s and don’ts of “Zoom etiquette.” Make sure your student’s workspace is ready with this TikTok-famous Bluetooth keyboard, a fun desk organizer and all the glitter pens that are forbidden at traditional school. Grab some blue light-blocking glasses and print out this handy list that will make them the teacher’s favorite in no time.

Sponge

1. Be prepared. Just like any class at school, it's important to have all of your materials ready to go. For virtual school, that means you'll need to know the link, what time you need to be there and what books or printouts you'll need. Get your pencils sharpened in advance so you can be totally prepared to listen when the teacher comes on.

2. Be on time. Let's not waste the teacher's time. Be on time for your class meetings (or even a few minutes early). It's a good idea to test out the class link in advance of your call time, so you know that it works and your system is up and running. Print out your class schedules and post them on your wall as a reminder. Set an alarm (or ask a parent to do that) if you have a hard time remembering when to log on.

Andrea Piacquadio via Pexels

3. Learn how to use the virtual classroom program. Whether you are using Zoom, Google Classroom, WebEx or another program, it's important to know how it works. Learn how to enter the virtual classroom, mute and unmute yourself, turn off your camera and shut down the program. Is there a chat that you need to use? A way to indicate you are raising your hand? Find this out before the class starts. 

4. Use headphones with a mic. It's easier for the class to hear from you when you need to talk if you are wearing headphones with an external microphone. Also, headphones will help you block out the distractions around you. 

rawpixel

5. Stay in one spot during your call. Resist the urge to head to the kitchen for a snack or take your class meeting outside. It's distracting to your classmates to see you moving around during the class. Find a quiet spot where you will be comfortable for the whole class and make it your classroom spot. Remember, you are in class so lounging on your bed is not a good option. Sit at a desk or your kitchen table so you can have more focus. 

6. Dress the part. While school uniforms aren't required for virtual schooling, you do want to make sure you look presentable for class. Change out of your pajamas (unless it is official pajama day), brush your hair and teeth and look presentable. Make sure any shirt you are wearing doesn't have any offensive graphics or text on it. Think about what you'd wear to school and dress accordingly. 

Gladskikh Tatiana

7. Eliminate distractions. Keep in mind that class time is class time even when you are at home. Don't snack or chew gum during class. Turn off the music or the TV in the background. If you need to use the restroom, try to do that before class starts. Don't text or play on your cell phone during the class meeting. 

8. Skip the virtual backgrounds. While some programs have fun options to add a virtual background, that can be super distracting to the other students. Unless your teacher has requested it, skip it. Also, it's good to clean up your room or sit in front of a blank wall to keep the mess to a minimum. 

child watching video on laptop
Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels

9. Wait for your turn. It's tough enough for teachers to manage a class when you are there in the same room. Virtual classes add a whole other challenge. Follow the teacher's instructions for volunteering and don't blurt out an answer unless you are called on. It can be a good idea to raise your hand instead of interrupting so that the teacher can finish the instructions before you jump in. 

10. Remember, this is school. While it might be exciting to see your friends (finally!), this is not the time or place to chat about Minecraft or what you had for breakfast. If your virtual classroom has a chat feature, stay out of it unless the teacher requests students use it. Chat is public to everyone in the class (including the teacher), and it can be distracting. 

A disabled child gives her teacher a high five
iStock

11. Respect your teachers! This is the most important rule of all! Respect your teachers and all the work they have done to teach you in the virtual classroom. This might be a challenge for them too; we are all learning together. Make sure they know how much you appreciate them. The best way to do this is with good behavior in the virtual classroom (and gift cards don't hurt either!). 

—Kate Loweth

 

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Featured photo: GSCSNJ via Flickr

Fact: there’s never been a puddle our kids didn’t like. In order to keep little feet dry (and your sanity intact), why not add a shiny new pair of rain boots to your family’s collection of outdoor gear? From the ever-popular Target rain boots for kids to the cult-favorite Crocs kids’ rain boots, we’ve curated a list that’ll be sure to have something that fits your needs. Scroll down to see them all.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.



Paper & String Rain Boots from London Littles

$40 BUY NOW

With a vintage-yet-thoroughly-modern vibe, we love this gender-neutral Paper & String rainboot from London Littles. The whimsical kite pattern against a striking, cheerful yellow will brighten any day and keep their toes warm and dry, too.  


Hunter Rain Boots

$64 BUY NOW

There's a reason these rain boots are a favorite with parents. Basic but sturdy, the range of colors means you can find a pair that'll go with just about anything your kid wears.


Western Chief Rain Boots

$30 & up BUY NOW

You love Western Chief boots even before you buy them—these classic rain boots for toddlers and kids include the signature styles like firefighter and frog, as well as a selection of character boots including Batman and Minnie Mouse.


Kamik's The STOMP Rain Boots

$35 BUY NOW

We love the comfort level of this boot—it's like wearing a sneaker. Kids can run, jump, climb and splash all they want and they might not even notice when it stops raining. They come in other colors, too! 


Cat & Jack's Animal Rain Boots

$20 BUY NOW

Not only is the price right, but there are a few different creatures for your toddler to choose from—a tiger, a unicorn and an alligator!


Bog's York Rain Boots

$39 BUY NOW

We love the easy pull-on handles that help independent toddlers jam those boots on and go! Plus, with extra features to keep feet dry, rainy days can be outdoor play days, too.

 


Crocs Kids Rain Boots

$34.99 BUY NOW

Your favorite comfort shoe comes in a rain boot for toddlers and little kids too! This unisex style is offered in seven bright colors and is made with the same material your own feet love.

 


Bobux's The Paddington Rain Boots

$73 BUY NOW

Bold, bright colors meet minimalist design in these waterproof boots that have a rubber-like red finish. Tested to keep kids’ feet dry for over four hours submerged in water, these boots are also ergonomically designed for maximum foot health for your puddle stompers. Toddler & big kid sizes are available; you’ll want to check out the sizing chart before you order.


Sperry's Saltwater Duck Boots

$69.95 BUY NOW

Sperry’s classic-look duck boot in mini sizes, these boots have the ultimate wet/dry traction and a zipper closure for a close fit and easy on/off. They’re perfect for super active kids who never let a little rain or light snow stop them.

—Amber Guetebier

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Baby, it’s cold outside, but that shouldn’t stop you from having some fun in the great outdoors with the kids this winter. Need ideas? Check out our favorite winter activities in and around NYC, which will get you gliding and sliding right into the spring thaw. From winter hikes and skating rinks galore to hitting the slopes and breaking for the ultimate hot chocolate, here are the best things to do with kids this winter in NYC. (Need some tips on how to embrace the cold? This story on NYC Forest Schools in NYC can help!)

Snow Tubing

L.L. Bean

January is really when snow tubing gets going in the NYC area. 

Click here for our favorite spots!

Hiking

Manhattan Forest School

Hit the trail—in NYC proper or upstate and beyond. 

We recommend these spots for winter hikes with kids!

Ice Skating

Industry City

There are all kinds of rinks in NYC, from iconic and crowded to lesser-known with a bit more room to glide. 

Find your rink match here!

Skiing

Stowe Mountain

Hit the slopes at one of our favorite NYC-area ski resorts!

Try Curling

Angelito Jusay

You don't even have to leave the city to give this winter sport a try, which you can do in Midtown at Bryant Park's Curling Cafe & Bar. It's "iceless" curling (on faux ice) and your reservation includes a heated dining dome, food and drink (hot chocolate, chicken tenders, etc.), and a dedicated curling lane for 90 minutes of play. 

Family Packages for on to four guests are $250 and $475 for five to eight guests. 

Bryant Park 
42nd Street and Sixth Avenue
Midtown
Online: bryantpark.org

Geocaching

Lisa Schorr

Geocaches (little treasures hidden in public all around the world) are still there, even in the snow! Click here to read about how to start searching in NYC! 

Sledding

iStock

The classic winter activity of slopes, a slippery surface and gravity. 

Click here for all of our favorite NYC sledding hills! 

Drink Some Hot Chocolate

When you're ready to warm up, try one of the best hot chocolates for kids in New York City

Eat Some Fondue

Angela Pham

And if you're hungry, why not indulge in the wonderful comforting cheesiness of fondue. These are our favorite spots for fondue with the family in NYC!

Get Outta Town

Saranac Lake Winter Carnival

Hit the road and head to one of our favorite winter road trip destinations from NYC! 

—Mimi O’Connor

feuture photo: iStock

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One of the loveliest elements of the holiday season, the Christmas tree, can lose its luster pretty quickly once the new year arrives. Good news! The city’s Mulchfest program makes it easy for you to recycle your Christmas tree and do some good for the city’s parks and young trees. Here’s how to get rid of your Christmas tree and do a little green good this year. (Plus: the last day for sanitation tree pickup and recycling!)

Treecycle it: MulchFest2021

NYC Department of Parks & Recreation

MulchFest is back! NYC’s own “TREECYCLE” tradition is taking place from December 26, 2021 to January 9, 2022. Last year the city mulched more than 29,000 trees, and it's pumped to set a new record for 2022!

Bring your tree (free of all decorations, netting and wrapping) and it will be recycled into wood chips to nourish trees and plants on NYC streets and gardens. Drop it off at one of the many Mulchfest locations around the city (there are many in every borough), or bring it on "Chipping Weekend", January 8 and 9, to see your tree reduced to bits live.

Bonus: If your own backyard needs some sprucing up, you can get a free bag of mulch to take home with you after your tree is chipped. (Locations marked with an asterisk have mulch for the taking.)

Click here to find all Mulchfest info, including chipping and drop-off locations.

distelAPPArath via Pixabay

Spread the Love — and the Mulch!
Feel like spreading some of that green love around? You and the kids can volunteer to add that awesome mulch to city trees.  (The mulch helps protect young trees, shrubs and garden beds from the winter cold, helps plants retain moisture and provides a nice decorative touch.) Sound like the green, civic activity your family's been seeking? Events are happening in all boroughs on weekends in January. Click here to see locations, dates, and times and to register! (And remember, dress warmly, wear closed-toe shoes and a mask!)

Kick it To the Curb — and Still Recycle It!

Dates for Department of Sanitation Pick-Up
Bring your tree down for curbside pick-up by the Department of Sanitation from January 6-15. Trees will be recycled into compost for NYC’s public spaces (parks, gardens, etc.). Be sure to remove all decorations from the tree and do not place the tree in a plastic bag.

Note: trees left curbside with holiday decorations of any kind remaining on them will be collected as garbage. If your metal or plastic imitation tree has worked its last holiday season, dispose of it with your normal recycling and it's off your hands.

Have Someone Else Do the Heavy Lifting — and Still Recycle It!: Removal Services

If you’re unable to physically take your tree down to the curbside or to a MulchFest chipping location or drop-off site, don’t worry. Services like NYC Trees can come to your home, remove the tree, and take it directly to a recycling location for you. Starting at $80 for a four-to-five-foot tree, NYC Trees makes the tree removal process (and clean up!) about as easy as it gets. (If you want them to take off your lights, ornaments, etc. expect to pay more.)

908-318-4220
Online: nyctrees.com

—Ilyssa Smith

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Newborns are wonderful at all times of year, but a winter baby comes with its own special kind of warmth. Read on for 18 reasons to appreciate your cold-weather cutie!

iStock

1. After a long night with baby, it is socially acceptable to wear pajamas 24/7 or curl up in an oversized sweater and leggings day after day after day. (And yes, we know, 2020 insured most of us were doing this anyway). 

2. If baby arrives by the holidays, you’ll get to show off the best gift ever. And you have a good excuse for not cooking, cleaning or hosting.

3. No guilt for not socializing! Chilly weather, COVID and other people's colds are just two great reasons to stay in and snuggle in front of the fire.

 

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4. You could join a pit crew with your diaper-changing speed. Can’t let that baby get chilled!

5. You’ll never "get" to host a summer-birthday pool party with a dozen short, noisy humans who think of a pool as a giant collective toilet bowl.

6. That super-attractive sweat trail from the back to the ankles that baby-wearing moms get in the summer? Yeah, you don’t have it right now.

 

7. You know that true happiness is curling up on the couch with a cozy blanket and warm bundle of baby, aka your own portable heat source.

8. You secretly gloat over how your feet never swelled up like giant pufferfish during the last months of your pregnancy.

9. You’re probably still wearing stretchy pants, so indulge in that yummy holiday food you only get once a year.

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10. Seasonally spiced hot lattes are the order of the day (literally) when you’ve been up all night with a newborn. All those still-pregnant spring and summer mamas will be jealous you're enjoying caffeine again.

11. Baby hats. There are few things cuter than newborns in ridiculous winter hats.

12. You have a perfect excuse to stay inside and nap with baby when any snow falls.

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13. You can think less about how your post-baby beach body is going to look come summer (that's months away!) and more about what warm, delicious comfort food is in your immediate future.

14. You’ve already got plans for that extra tax break (assuming baby was evicted before the ball drops on New Year’s Eve).

15. You don't have to stress about slathering sunscreen on a newborn.

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16. You can breastfeed without feeling like a sweaty dairy cow in summer's heat.

17. Those tiny-baby-in-a-giant-snowsuit photos are one of a kind.

18. By the time spring comes, your baby will be more mobile, and you can enjoy the longer, warmer days outside. Bring on the long walks and park outings!

— Suzanna Palmer

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After a long and anxious wait, COVID-19 vaccines are now available for kids age 5 to 11. Getting young kids vaccinated is critical for protecting our communities, since this is a large age group, and taking this step will give millions of parents peace of mind. 

Paul Lewis, MD, a Kaiser Permanente pediatrician in Portland, Oregon, who specializes in infections in kids, says that as winter and the holidays approach, this is a good time to get kids vaccinated. He suggests using the COVID-19 vaccine authorization as an opportunity to get kids caught up on other vaccinations as well, since many people have fallen behind on regular appointments during the last 18 months. He also suggests that all children over 6 months old get their flu shot this year. Fortunately, he says, it’s no problem to get both shots at the same time.

We know parents, caregivers, and others may have questions about the safety of the pediatric COVID-19 vaccine. In this Q&A, Dr. Lewis answers common questions about it.

 

How well does the COVID-19 vaccine work for kids?

For kids under 12, the COVID-19 vaccine is incredibly effective. A recent study, affirmed by the Food and Drug Administration, that included more than 3,000 kids who got the pediatric dose of the vaccine found that it was more than 90% effective at preventing infection with symptoms.

 

How does the vaccine for children 5 to 11 differ from the vaccine for people 12 and older?

The pediatric vaccine is identical to the vaccine that’s used for older teenagers and adults, but the dose is one-third of the adult dose. That dosage was chosen because it was just as effective at providing protective antibodies but had a much lower rate of side effects.

What are the most common side effects?

Of the thousands of kids who were part of that recent study, zero had serious adverse events. Some kids get sore arms, redness or swelling, and a smaller percentage might get fatigue, muscle aches or fever. But they’re getting side effects at lower rates than teenagers and adults.

 

What is the risk of myocarditis?

Myocarditis, or inflammation of the heart, has occurred in young men who’ve been vaccinated but is pretty rare, with a handful of cases per million vaccination doses. Many cardiologists think that, since this is generally more common in teenagers than school-age kids, it’ll be less common after vaccination as well. 

If my child has underlying health conditions, should I go ahead with vaccination?

Studies on this are ongoing. We know that older adolescents and adults with immunocompromised conditions or on immunosuppressive medications respond less well to vaccination, but they do respond. We also know that if they get COVID-19, they’re more likely to have worse outcomes, including needing hospitalization and intensive care. If someone has an underlying condition, such as an immunosuppressive condition, diabetes, heart disease or lung disease, we recommend getting an age-appropriate vaccine.

If my child is used to wearing a mask, can’t I just rely on that for prevention?

Social distancing and wearing masks are important layers of protection, but they are hard to continue day after day, especially for kids at recess or at lunch. So the vaccine is a big, thick layer of protection to help with all those other measures, and people should use them together. 

How should I prepare my child for a vaccination appointment?

I’ve never met a kid who wanted to get a shot, but kids are resilient. You can help by explaining that you’ve been vaccinated and, while it does hurt, the pain goes away quickly and you’re there for them. At Kaiser Permanente vaccination sites, there will be people who are used to dealing with children and who know that there is a lot of emotion and fear. Kaiser Permanente staff and parents can work together to make it a minor experience for kids.

To schedule a vaccination and learn more, visit kp.org/covidvaccine/nw.

Is there anything you can do to help reduce the pain that happens in the arm after getting the vaccine? Does heat or cold compresses work better?

I don’t know of any magic or comparison between heat and cold. My advice to parents would be to avoid focusing on it; it is not much different than any other injection- actually smaller in volume. Use acetaminophen or ibuprofen if you normally would for the degree of pain.

My son keeps taking his mask off during recess at school, is he safe since he’s outside?

Different states and different school districts have varying policies on using masks outside. In general, the risk of getting COVID outside is MUCH less than in any indoor setting. Please try to follow the school’s rules—they are doing there best in a difficult situation and parents can help by being supportive

I know the CDC says it’s safe to get both the flu vaccine at the same time as the covid vaccine, but as a pediatrician would you recommend waiting a week or two in between those vaccines?

Simultaneous vaccines are recommended because it is hard for individuals and families to make multiple appointments or to fit multiple visits into their schedules. I got mine together last week!

Are there any over the counter medications that my child should or should not take right after getting the vaccine?


CDC recommends not taking OTCs unless you need them for symptom management.

I have a 17 year old son with a heart murmur and a left ventricular bundle branch block, is he at a higher risk for Myocarditis with the vaccine?

Hard question, but I would check with his cardiologist who knows his case the best.

I have a child with a compromised immune system; with the new variant heading to the US, should I consider homeschooling during the winter months?

We will know much more about the new variant by January. It is not yet widespread enough in the US to worry and when school starts again after New Years we should know more about the risk to vaccinated and unvaccinated kids.

Do you have an estimated timeline of when kids under 5 will be approved for the vaccine?

Hard to make a guarantee but hopefully by spring of 2022.