ML Interest Tag: wind

7 Cozy Cabins Near Dallas That Make the Perfect Getaway

by Kate Loweth

Pack your hiking boots, your swim trunks, and the s’mores—these cozy cabins just outside Dallas are calling your name

If you are desperate for a change of scenery, we’ve got just the spots for you. These Airbnb rentals near Dallas are the perfect cozy cabins you’ve been dreaming of. You’ll find tons of family-friendly amenities in these Airbnb rentals for families that include a log cabin, a totally cute A-frame, and even a cabin with a pool! Get ready to relax in the great outdoors!

Granbury, TX: A-Frame Cabin

Airbnb

This peaceful A-Frame cabin is updated with all the modern amenities and is located just minutes from Historic Granbury Square. Situated on three wooded lots, there is a wood-burning stove inside, an outdoor fire pit to roast marshmallows, and a window AC unit for humid nights. Make it a lake day on a boat, kayak, jet ski, or paddleboard on Lake Granbury, or go boating on the gorgeous banks of the Brazos River.

Sleeps: 6
Cost: $112/night
Online: airbnb.com

Grafod, TX: Cross TImbers Lakefront Cabin

Airbnb

Enjoy a relaxing vacation at this waterfront home nestled in the Cross Timbers forest with beautiful panoramic lake views and a partially covered swim dock right on the water. For the adventuring sort, this home comes with kayaks and is easily accessible to nearby hiking and bike trails. 

Sleeps: 4
Cost: $209/night
Online: airbnb.com

Chico, TX: Waterfront Lake Bridgeport Haven

Airbnb

Located on Lake Bridgeport, this spacious 4-bedroom, 2-bathroom home in Chico overlooks the lake and offers an abundance of amenities like a private dock and boat slip, a fire pit for roasting s'mores, and is within walking distance of a must-eat smokehouse for those nights you want to take a break from the grill. 

Sleeps: 13
Cost: $331/night
Online: airbnb.com

Graham, TX: Shores Ranch Getaway Cabin

Airbnb

This cozy little cabin, just 15 miles west of Graham, TX, is a great spot to watch the beautiful sunsets from the front porch while rocking in a rocking chair. Best part? Lake Graham is just a few minutes away where you can fish and boat all day long.

Sleeps: 4
Cost: $75/night
Online: airbnb.com

Nevada, TX: Lake Lavon Secluded Cabin

Airbnb

This lakefront cabin will quickly become your family's favorite vacation spot. Start your morning with a cup of coffee on the back deck overlooking Lake Lavon and then spend the day kayaking and paddle boarding (rental fee is extra) and then finish off the nights at the fire pit.

Sleeps: 6
Cost: $202/night
Online: airbnb.com

Lake Cypress Springs: Spacious Mid-Century A-Frame

Airbnb

The whole crew will love relaxing at this large log cabin just feet away from Lake Cypress Springs. There's a sandy beach, kayaks to use on-site, and a boat slip for your watercraft. Feeling adventurous? There are hiking trails, a peach orchard, a winery, and two towns—Mt. Vernon and Winnsboro—nearby for boutique shopping and great restaurants. 

Sleeps: 4
Cost: $179/night
Online: airbnb.com

Ennis, TX: Winding Ridge Guest House

Airbnb

Winding Ridge is a two-bedroom early 1900‘s replica guest house located on 22 acres of charming Texas Hill Country. Kids will love stepping outside to play with the miniature herd of horses, donkeys, and goats—your own private petting zoo! Bring your own bicycles or use the two guest bikes to roam the winding countryside. There's a jacuzzi, fire pit, a shared pool, and central AC to keep you cool on those hot summer nights. 

Sleeps: 6
Cost: $279/night
Online: airbnb.com

Please note, prices listed were valid at the time of publication but rates can fluctuate at different times of the year. If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.

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18 Toddler Coats They’ll Actually Wear

by Kate Cartia

Oh, the weather outside is frightful…luckily, these toddler coats make getting them ready a little less scary

First things first: the best toddler coat is the one they’ll put on and keep on. Toddlers are squirmy little creatures. They’re movers and shakers and they can’t stand being restricted. Winter gear typically makes having a full range of movement hard (think Randy in A Christmas Story), so we have to switch tactics and find toddler coats they won’t mind wearing, even if it means not being able to contort themselves into a pretzel as much as they’d like.

From rough-and-tumble to soft and sweet, these toddler coats are super cute and durable. We have layers for the dinosaur dedicated, we have outer space outerwear, and options for the chilly frilly lovers. And hey, there’s a good chance they’ll make getting your little ones ready to face the elements easier!

3-in-1 Jacket

Anything that multi-tasks is an immediate favorite of ours, and this 3-in-1 jacket fits the bill. The outer shell is specially coated for water-resistance, and the solid interior fleece liner zips out to become its own jacket! Available in four prints.

3-in-1 Jacket ($34.98) Here

Mon Coeur Puffer Jacket

Mon Coeur from Maisonette is a brand dedicated to putting the planet first. This jacket is made from up-cycled water bottles and recycled polyester. Plus, 1% of each item sold is donated to environmental restoration efforts!

Mon Coeur Puffer Jacket ($190) Here

Ruffle Puffer Jacket

Tiered ruffles and a water-resistant coating makes this an adorable holiday-ready option for little ones who love frills!

Ruffle Puffer Jacket ($59.96) Here

Rocket Rain Coat

If your season looks more wet than wintery, this warm rain coat from Cat & Jack is a blast! The webbed details will make your little astronaut feel on top of the world.

Rocket Rain Coat ($19) Here

Ombré Puffer Vest

If having their arms covered is just too much, this cheery puffer vest is the perfect answer!

Ombré Puffer Vest ($29.50) Here

The North Face Down Hooded Jacket

The North Face is known for handling the cold, so this recycled down-filled, fleece-lined, water-repellent jacket is an easy and cozy go-to all season!

The North Face Down Hooded Jacket ($119) Here

Buffalo Check Hooded Wool Jacket

Keep them warm and oh-so-sharp in this cozy wool hooded jacket! Also available in red!

Buffalo Check Hooded Wool Jacket ($49) Here

Two-Piece Snowsuit

If a coat just isn't going to cut it, this snowsuit set is sure to! Weather-resistant, water-resistant, and insulated, they'll stay cozy no matter what the weather has in store.

Two-Piece Snowsuit ($219) Here

Lightweight Goose Down Jacket

No kiddo wants to be weighed down, so this lightweight and packable goose down jacket is a terrific option! It also doesn't hurt that it's budget-friendly.

Lightweight Goose Down Jacket ($46.99) Here

Hook-and-Eye Coat

So you have yourself a little fashionista? This gender-neutral coat can be rocked from holiday parties to the playground.

Hook-and-Eye Coat ($28.99) Here

Bear Ears Puffer Jacket

We're suckers for anything with adorable details, so this puffer coat is high on our list! It's ideal for temps around 50ºF and comes in a ton of different colors.

Bear Ears Puffer Jacket ($23.99) Here

Dinosaur Hood Puffer Coat

Got a dino-driven kiddo? They'll love this rawr-some puffer, complete with spikes. It comes in five colors!

Dinosaur Hood Puffer Coat ($20.99) Here

Fur Hood Parka

Talk about cozy! This parka is fleece-lined with a removable hood for the days when they decide that a hood is the most annoying thing on earth after loving it the day before. You know how it goes.

Fur Hood Parka ($29.59) Here

Lightweight Water-Resistant Packable Hooded Puffer Coat

This one is the #1 Best-Seller in Boys' Down Jacket & Coats on Amazon! 

Lightweight Water-Resistant Packable Hooded Puffer Coat ($40.20) Here

Double Flake Snow Set

We're loving this snow set for its warmth, but also because of Columbia's OUTGROWN™ System that allows you to extend the size up to 1.5"!

Double Flake Snow Set ($99) Here

Kitterwibbit II Jacket

Another dino-inspired layer (who can get enough dinosaur duds?), this one offers reflective detail and comes in four color combos!

Kitterwibbit II Jacket ($44.99) Here

Patagonia Synthetic Puffer Hoodie

Fair Trade Certified™ and high tear-strength, they'll wear this one all winter! Available in multiple colors.

Patagonia Synthetic Puffer Hoodie ($129) Here

Long Heavyweight Hooded Puffer Coat

For especially cold climates, this longer-length heavyweight coat will protect them right down to their little hands thanks to the thumb-holes!

Long Heavyweight Hooded Puffer Coat ($50.20) Here

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers. 

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Field Day! Local Chicago Corn Mazes to Get Lost In

by Maria Chambers

Get your corn maze fill at any of these amazing Chicago corn mazes that’ll entertain the family for hours

Local farms know that if they build it, we will come. And by “it,” we obviously mean acres of intricate corn mazes to maneuver through—and get lost in—with your kids. If that isn’t enticing enough, a lot of the maze locations have added bells and whistles like petting zoos and pumpkin doughnuts. Plus, you can check off plenty of fall activities at once as most have options to pick apples or pick pumpkins to complete your fall experience. So lace up those walking shoes and check out this year’s crop of Chicago corn mazes.

Konow’s Corn Maze
A huge indoor western-themed playland, 2 corn pits, gem mining, straw playgrounds, animal barn, tractor-pulled grain train and more make this Homer Glen attraction a fall favorite. The keystone, however, of the operation is the corn maze. Depending on how much stamina your kids have, you could spend a chunk of the day winding your way through the miles-long behemoth.

16849 S. Cedar Rd.
Homer Glen
Online: konowscornmaze.com

Kroll's Fall Harvest Farm
Each year, the cornfields at this farm are cut into elaborate circuits and the activities are designed to entertain your entire clan, Kroll’s has hayrides, a petting zoo with goats, donkeys, sheep and turkeys and a pumpkin patch. Timed entry tickets are required on weekends to help control numbers, so be sure to book online before visiting. The maze is open Sep. 17-Oct. 31.

13236 W. Town Line Rd.
Waukegan
Online: krollsfarm.com

Richardson Farm
Home to the world’s largest maze, it’s go big or go home at Richardson. This sprawling attraction includes 4 separate mazes that make up 9-10 miles of trails winding through 28 acres of live corn. The trail includes games that range from solving puzzles to map reading that keep the littles engaged. In addition to the corny fun, kids can glide on zip lines, cheer for pig races, mosey through pumpkin patches, go for wagon rides and loads more. The maze is open Sep. 10-Oct. 30. 

9405 Richardson Rd.
Spring Grove
Online: richardsonadventurefarm.com

Related: Walk This Way! Colorful Spots for Fall Strolls in Chicago

Odyssey Fun Farm
Romp around 110 acres in Tinley Park and enjoy a pumpkin patch, inflatables zone, zip line, hay rides, a petting zoo and the crown-jewel 15-acre Pac Man-themed corn maze. In case that seems like a lot walking for little feet, the farm also features a pint-sized hay maze. Brave souls may also be interested in the twilight flashlight maze, wherein visitors peruse the maze at night. Don’t worry . . . it’s not haunted . . . or is it? (It's not). The farm opens Sep. 24.

19111 S. Oak Park Ave.
Tinley Park
Online: odysseyfunfarm.com

County Line Orchard
Just over the Indiana border lies an awe-inspiring orchard complete with pumpkin doughnuts, concessions, apples galore and corn mazes. Along with a larger maze, there is also an Albanese gummy bear-themed maze that's perfect for the little ones. Once you’re all maze-d out, pick apples and peruse the massive barn to get your fill of fudge and other farm essentials.

200 S. County Line Rd.
Hobart, IN
Online: countylineorchard.com

Jonamac Orchard
This apple-picking oasis is also home to one stellar corn maze. While mostly renowned for its extensive apple orchards, the 10-acre corny adventure should not be overlooked. And with three miles of pathways and two bridges, it’s almost impossible to ignore. There’s also a nighttime haunted version on Friday and Saturday evenings for the brave corn stalkers. The maze is open Aug. 27-Oct. 30.

19412 S. Shabbona Rd.
Malta
Online: jonamacorchard.com

Related: 100 Things to Do in Chicago Before the Kids Turn 10

Jack's Pumpkin Patch Pop-Up

Looking for a corn maze, but don't want to leave the city? You're in luck! Jack's Pumpkin Patch Pop-Up has the city's largest family-friendly corn maze (before 7 p.m.), carnival games, a pumpkin patch, and so much more. It's recommended that you buy your tickets in advance, but they do accept walk-ups. They are open everyday from Sept. 22 - Oct. 31.

1265 W. LeMoyne St.
Chicago
Online: jackspumpkinpopup.com

Siegel’s Cottonwood Farm
With 30 attractions on hand, Siegel’s Cottonwood Farm in Crest Hill, truly is a solid catch-all for kids of all ages and interests, whether said interests include pumpkin-picking, pony rides, climbing walls, jellies and jams, hay rides, or even “zombie” paintball. Then, of course, there’s the corn maze, open weekends through October 31. Spanning 15 acres, the corn maze contains 5 miles of winding pathways.

17250 S. Weaver Rd.
Crest Hill
Online: ourpumpkinfarm.com

Goebbert’s Pumpkin Patch
Through October 31, the farm opens its gates to visitors clambering for homemade fudge and caramel apples and those eager to ride the ponies and take a run through the mazes. The mazes here come in two varieties: a larger corn maze good for slightly older children and a “munchkin maze” ideal for younger kids.

42W813 Reinking Rd.
Hampshire
Online: goebbertspumpkinpatch.com

 

 

 

 

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6 Awesome Forest Park Hikes You Can Do Now

by Annette Benedetti

America’s largest urban forest is located right in Portland families’ back yard, and it is a gorgeous place to be through the autumn months. Located in the heart of the city, Forest Park is brimming with colorful hikes for local families to explore. With almost 100 miles of trails within the park, your crew can hit a different trail each week throughout the fall months. Read on to find our pick of the best Forest Park hikes for families.

Shea R. via Flickr

1. NW Skyline Blvd to BPA Road (2 miles)
This relatively effortless, two mile Forest Park hike is easy to access from NW Skyline Blvd. from BPA Road. Here, look for the signs for Firelane 13 to reach the flat, lookout area with picnic tables. Don't forget to pack in your lunch to enjoy from the overlook! On a clear day, you can even spot Mt. Rainier and Mt. St. Helens.

Ages: Appropriate for all ages (you can even take baby in a backpack carrier)

2. Lower Macleay Park to Pittock Mansion (5.3 miles)
The hike to Pittock Mansion from Lower Macleay Park is a bit of a climb (an elevation gain of nearly a thousand feet), and is more difficult in nature at 5.3 miles round trip—but this hike has it all! You'll find street parking near the park entrance on NW 29th and Upshur, plus the park has picnic tables and restrooms. The hike itself is parallel to a lovely gurgling river bank, and the trail is paved. A highlight is the mysterious Stone House, for a fun photo op, where you can either opt to return on the Wildwood Trail or soldier on. If you opt to continue, you'll ultimate reach Pittock Mansion, with stunning views of the city that are sure to impress along this Forest Park hike.

Ages: 6 years and up

3. Lower Maple Trail Loop (3 mile loop)
From Hwy 30, turn on to Saltzman Road, and follow the winding residential road up to the top. Now, follow the Saltzman Road trail head to the Maple Trail, then go right on the Leif Erikson Trail. Return to the beginning via Maple, and you'll have taken one healthy, three mile loop. While the directions may sound complicated, it's a fun quest and sign exploration game for older children to participate in, plus they'll love the forested paths with birds, slugs and bugs. (Don't forget your bug spray!)

Ages: All ages

Emily U via Yelp

4. The Big Stump (2 miles or 6 miles)
Turn on to Old Springville Rd. from Skyline Rd. to reach the parking area and Wildwood trail head. There, you'll follow Fire Lane 7 to the the Hardesty Trail, reaching The Big Stump (which is exactly what it sounds like—kids love it!). To return, either follow your inbound route, or if you're feeling very ambitious, opt to loop to the Wildwood Trail, then Ridge Trail, back to Fire Lane 7. Depending on your course, this will take you either two miles and less than two hours, or a few more hours to do the six mile loop.

Ages: 2 mile loop is appropriate for all ages. 6 mile loop is best for 7 years and up.

5. Audubon Society Hikes (1-5 miles)
If you have a novice avian expert in your family, check out the Audubon Society of Portland at 5151 NW Cornell Rd. From here, you can take an easy, 1.3 mile stroll from the Founders Trail to the North Collins Trail to hear and view wild woodpeckers and over 40 species of other birds. The 150 acre nature preserve surrounding the Audubon Society has four miles of hiking paths, plus onsite restrooms and a store to pick up a birding guide. 

Ages: All ages

6. The Wildwood–Newton Loop (1 mile)
Last but not least, your little tree hugger will love the Wildwood Trail! This round-trip loop is about a mile and easy enough for smaller legs. From Skyline Blvd, turn on to NW Newton Road and park. Then walk right on the first path, to the Wildwood Trail. From here, head south on Wildwood. To return, take a right onto Fire Lane 10. Along the Wildwood Trail, you'll find a hollowed-out tree that little ones will love to tuck inside for a fun photo.

Ages: All Ages

 

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The Perfect Picture Book About Friends Who Are Family

by Katie Lineberger
Partner Content

Whether you’re cuddling up on the couch for a mid-afternoon story or winding down at bedtime, a great book brings families together for quality time and important conversations. A must-have for your kiddo’s bookshelf is Stick and Stone: Best Friends Forever, a new adventure for beloved BFFs Stick and Stone.

In Beth Ferry’s latest book, beautifully illustrated by Tom Lichtenheld, Stick searches for his family tree (Is it an oak? A maple? Who are the other sticks he’ll get to meet?). As any wonderful wingman would do, Stone accompanies his pal on the journey to find his roots. Throughout their adventure, this sweet picture book delivers a big message about friendship and unconditional love. 

Stick and Stone: Best Friends Forever brings to life the idea that people who are not born into your family can fill spaces in your heart. From friends to neighbors, “family” takes many forms over a lifetime. A good friend brings comfort and support. They’re by our sides through happy times and sad times and especially when the world feels scary. (As any parent navigating the uncertainty of a pandemic knows, these special relationships are everything!) 

Clever illustrations visualize the playful rhymes in this relatable tale that resonates with kids and adults alike. Reading this heartwarming book with your children gives parents the opportunity to explore the importance of learning about where we came from, as well as the ability of “found family” to help us grow! 

 

Read the book and download the free activity kit!

-Jessica Solloway

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“PAW Patrol” Fans Rejoice: The Official Movie Sneak Peek Is Here

by Sarah Shebek

PAW Patrol, we’re on a roll! Fans of the popular Nick Jr. TV show are in for a treat—a movie based on the series is coming soon. And we’ve got your first look at what to expect with a new trailer, including a new original song from Adam Levine!

PAW PATROL: THE MOVIE opens in theaters on August 20 and is rated G for general audiences. With summer winding down around the release date, consider it one more treat for the kids before they head back to school.

Adventure City is in big trouble when the pups’ biggest rival, Humdinger, becomes the mayor. Ryder and his fellow rescue dogs leap into action to save the day. After meeting a new ally, a dachshund named Liberty, the PAW Patrol fights to save the citizens of the city! Of course, there’s plenty of exciting new gadgets and gear involved to keep your kids enthralled.

Delores in PAW Patrol Movie
Delores (voiced by Kim Kardashian West)

The movie features members from the original series’ cast and a number of celebrity voices, including Kim Kardashian West, Dax Shepard, Iain Armitage, Tyler Perry and Jimmy Kimmel.

L-R: Liberty (voiced by Marsai Martin), Ruben (voiced by Dax Shepard), and Butch (voiced by Randall Park)

Your little PAW Patrol fans are undoubtedly excited for this one! Save the date and plan your return trip to your local theater on August 20.

––Sarah Shebek

All images courtesy of Spin Master

 

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Best Events for Austin Kids & Families in December (and Most are Free!)

by Kate Loweth

December is here and it’s full of free and cheap things to do with your family around Austin, Texas like Christmas light displays, Santa visits and free museum days. Scroll down to check out the best events and activities for kids this month and mark your calendars!

Free First Sunday at Bullock Texas State History Museum

Keith A via yelp

Let history inspire you as you connect with Texas stories told by ever-changing artifacts, rare documents, photographs, and special exhibits. Dec. 1. Event details. 

Visit the Gingerbread Village

rawpixels

Inspired by the magic of snow globes, this winter Four Seasons Hotel Austin will fill its lobby with dozens of tiny gingerbread scenes representing one of the biggest concepts of them all: friendship. Daily through Dec. 25. Event details. 

Christmas Light Show at Mozart's Coffee

This Christmas Light Show has become an annual tradition for many Austinites. Every year, Mozart's Coffee decorate its deck with over 1 million LED lights and sets up a show to favorite holiday tunes. Daily through Jan. 5. Event details. 

Free Baby Playdate

iStock

Every Tuesday you can meet up with other parents of babies at Toybrary Austin. Tuesdays at 1 p.m. Event details. 

Twinkle All the Way to Lakeview Trail of Lights

yelp

Come see thousands of twinkling lights all accompanied by delightful seasonal music. Daily through Jan. 1. Event details. 

Downtown Austin Holiday Stroll

A free, family-friendly event, Holiday Stroll has something for everyone including photos with Santa, a petting zoo, live ice sculpture, holiday arts & crafts, a live mural painting, local food trucks, artisan vendors, and more. Dec. 7. Event details. 

Make a Christmas Countdown Calendar at Home Depot

Home Depot

Create your own countdown to the holidays, and have a blast with your child while doing it. Kids develop hands-on skills with sanding, nailing and applying stickers. With help from parents and store associates, your child will make a merry memory this holiday season. Dec. 7. Event details. 

Museums on Us Weekend

iStock

Bank of America cardholders can get free admission to many museums the first full weekend of the month, including the Bullock Museum. Dec. 7-8. Event details. 

Santa's Wonderland Comes to Bass Pro

pexels

Santa’s Wonderland returns to Bass Pro Shops and families are invited to enjoy this magical Christmas village offering free photos with Santa and free family holiday activities including fun crafts and games. Features include rustic Christmas cabins, holiday characters and live elves set amongst a dazzling backdrop of snow-covered hills and illuminated Christmas trees. The Santa’s Wonderland Christmas village offers remote control trucks, laser/foam toy arcade, Lincoln Logs building area and much more. Kids can also spend time at one of the activity tables where they can write a letter to Santa, color and do fun crafts, all for free. Event details. 

Santa's Ranch

pexels

Bring your friends and family and enjoy one of the best holiday light exhibits in the state! You’ll take a drive through over a mile of winding country roads while taking in the beautiful lights, animated Christmas displays, and enjoying homemade hot cocoa, kettle corn and snacks. Daily through Jan. 4. Event details. 

Kids' Music Performance at Cherrywood Coffeehouse

austin, tx, live music

Enjoy music and kid performers every Sunday. Event details. 

Hill Country Holiday Village

unsplash

Located within one of the most beautiful places for holiday shopping, visitors will lose themselves in decorated walkways featuring local artisan vendors of art, jewelry, home goods, and holiday fare. Experience the winding walkways filled with holiday cheer and an abundance of family photo opp. Daily through Dec. 24. Event details. 

—Kate Loweth

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Have Fun at Home with Little Tikes This Summer

by Jennifer Swartvagher

The school year is winding down which normally means that it’s time for summer camp. This year, the camp season looks different and Little Tikes wants to help parents make this the best summer ever. Starting Jun. 15, Little Tikes Camp Play@Home will share daily fun and exciting activities on the brand’s YouTube and social media channels to keep the kids entertained and busy all week long. 

Little Tikes Camp Play@Home

Little Tikes is offering daily camp activities and affordable easy-to-do projects Mon. through Fri. All activities will be accessible via little Tikes YouTube and social media channels (Instagram, Facebook and Twitter) and email which means your kids can attend camp in their pajamas. Counselors (aka fellow parents) will cheer you on with activities, challenges and support. There is also a chance to earn badges and win Little Tikes prizes.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

Featured photo: Little Tikes

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Kristen Bell to Host Two New Special PBS KIDS “Read-Along” Story Times

by Jennifer Swartvagher

Parents and children alike have been looking forward to celebrities posting virtual story time videos. PBS KIDS has been hosting a popular ongoing “Read-Along” initiative that celebrates reading and togetherness at home.They just announced two new special story time sessions featuring Kristen Bell.

Kirsten Bell Story Time
On Jun. 1, Kristen will read Goodnight, Daniel Tiger, based on the beloved Emmy-winning PBS KIDS series, Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood, the animated spinoff of Mister Rogers’ Neighborhood, from Fred Rogers Productions. Then, on Jun. 8, Kristen will read her brand-new children’s book (co-authored with Benjamin Hart), The World Needs More Purple People.

Each reading will be livestreamed simultaneously on PBS KIDS’ Facebook  and YouTube channel and will remain available for viewing on demand on both platforms immediately following. 

Mon., Jun. 1, 12 p.m. ET: Goodnight, Daniel Tiger

It’s almost time for Daniel Tiger to say goodnight, but there’s still so much to do! There’s play time and then bath time…and don’t forget tooth-brushing time! Finally, it’s time to get cozy under the covers for story time and a special goodnight song. Daniel Tiger’s Neighborhood fans will love winding down their busy day with their favorite friend before snuggling into their own beds to say goodnight!

 

Mon., Jun. 8, 12 p.m. ET: The World Needs More Purple People

What is a purple person? Great question. I mean, really great! Because purple people always ask really great questions. They bring their family, friends, and communities together, and they speak up for what’s right. They are kind and hardworking, and they love to laugh (especially at Grandpa’s funny noises)! A purple person is an everyday superhero! How do you become one? That’s the fun part! Penny Purple will lead you through the steps. Get ready to be silly, exercise your curiosity, use your voice, and be inspired.

To encourage family engagement and a love of reading during this challenging time, the ongoing PBS KIDS’ “Read-Along” series offers families a place to come together and read-along with fan-favorite books on YouTube and Facebook. Each PBS KIDS Read-Along also includes activity ideas and questions to help spark conversation. New PBS KIDS Read-Alongs with special guests will stream weekly all summer long. Additional readers will be announced soon!

—Jennifer Swartvagher

Featured photo: PBS KIDS

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A “Frozen” Rollercoaster Is Opening at This Disney Theme Park

by Shahrzad Warkentin

Fans of Elsa and Anna are already excited about with the premiere of Frozen 2 just around the corner, but now there’s even more Arendelle magic to look forward to. Disney Parks has just announced a new Frozen-themed rollercoaster.

The only catch to this exciting addition is that it is opening in Hong Kong’s Disneyland, so you’ll have to make a special trip if you’re hoping to catch a ride on this new attraction. Guests visiting Wandering Oaken’s Sliding Sleighs will get to explore shopkeeper Oaken’s famous store, “before they head out on a winding sleigh journey through the forest and sparkling fjord in Arendelle.”

The ride, which is similar in style to Disneyland’s Matterhorn bobsleds, will also give riders a chance to see Olaf and Sven as they work together to pull the sleigh to the top of the lift before you descend onto the wooden track.

This rollercoaster is just one attraction in Hong Kong Disneyland’s entirely Frozen-themed land. Designed to look like a Nordic village, the land is set to open in 2021. The new land will also feature Frozen Ever After, a boat-style ride which first premiered at Epcot in Walt Disney World.

—Shahrzad Warkentin

Featured photo: Behind the Thrills via YouTube

 

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