ML Interest Tag: air-conditioned

Pick a Flick! Outdoor Movie Venues for Summer Nights

by Debra Flanagan

Lakeside views, drive-in throwbacks, or perched on a rooftop—we’re sharing where to keep things reel this summer

While an air-conditioned theater might be just what a sweltering summer ordered, the best way to watch a movie in Chicago is outdoors. There are parks, nature centers, drive-ins, hotels, and historic attractions reeling family favs all season long. And their lawns or rooftops are yours for the taking (BYO chairs, blankets, and maybe even your own popcorn). Watch a flick while fireflies dance with our guide to summer outdoor movies.

ChiTown Movie Drive-In

Watch a movie old-school-style under the stars in your car at ChiTown Movies in Pilsen. Order popcorn, tacos, wings, pizza, kids meals and more to be delivered to your car from the ChiTown Grille.

Upcoming films include:

April 30 @ 8:15pm – Top Gun: Maverick
May 3 @ 11:00pm – Star Wars: A New Hope
May 4 @ 8:15pm – Star Wars: The Empire Strikes Back
May 5 @ 8:15pm – Encanto
May 5 @ 10:30pm – Nightmare on Elm Street
May 6 @ 8:15pm – The Sandlot
May 6 @ 10:30pm – Nope
May 11 @ 8:30pm – Puss in Boots: The Last Wish
May 12 @ 8:30pm – Shrek
May 12 @ 10:30pm – Friday the 13th
May 13 @ 8:30pm – Spiderman: No Way Home
May 13 @ 11:00pm – Nightmare on Elm Street
May 14 @ 8:30pm – Top Gun: Maverick

2343 S. Throop St.
Pilsen
Online: chitownmovie.com

Millenium Park Summer Film Series

Free movies! And in the heart of downtown in the shadow of the pretty skyline, at that. Every Tuesday, Jul. 11-Aug. 29 at 6:30pm you can take a seat at Millennium Park’s Jay Pritzker Pavilion or plop down on the Great Lawn to fixate on a 40-foot-tall screen. (Gates open at 5pm.)

July 11 – Fast Five
July 18 – Turning Red
July 25 – Black Panther: Wakanda Forever
August 1 – Summer of Soul
August 8 – Clueless
August 15 – Top Gun: Maverick
August 22 – Barbershop
August 29 – Everything Everywhere All at Once

201 E. Randolph Street
The Loop
Online: chicago.gov

Drive-In Movies at Little Beans Cafe

Little Beans Cafe will transform its parking lot into an old-time drive-in theater. Fill your car with kids and snacks and head out for a perfect summer evening. Movies start at 7:30pm but get there early for special character Meet & Greets. Book your space in advance as these are sure to fill up fast!
June 9 – Live Action Beauty and the Beast (with a live appearance from Belle)
July 14 – Moana (with a live appearance from Moana)
September 15 – Frozen (with a live appearance from Elsa and Olaf)
430 Ashbury Ave.
Evanston

Movie Night at Gallagher Way

Gallagher Way at Wrigley Field has teamed up with the new Alamo Drafthouse Cinema to hand-select a schedule of free outdoor movies on most Wednesdays, May 17-Sep. 27. Movie-goers are encouraged to bring carry-out food from Gallagher Way restaurants. Beer, wine, non-alcoholic beverages, popcorn and other snacks will be for sale. Gates open at 6 p.m., movie starts at 7:30 p.m.

May 17 – Ferris Bueller
May 31 – E.T.
June 7 – Mitchells vs. The Machines
July 5 – Jumanji: Welcome to the Jungle
July 12 – Clueless
July 26 – Top Gun: Maverick
August 23 – Puss in Boots: The Last Wish
August 30 – The Dark Knight
September 13 – Back to the Future
September 27 – The Blues Brothers

3635 N. Clark St.
Online: gallagherway.com

Cantigny Park

If you have a kid that likes trucks and tanks and things that go boom, Cantigny in Wheaton is a must-visit. Along with the First Division Museum (which documents the U.S. Army’s 1st Infantry Division with soldier uniforms, weapons and more), it has nicely landscaped gardens and a “tank park” spangled with army vehicles kids can climb on. It all adds up to perfect pre-movie entertainment. Speaking of movies, weekly, you can enjoy a movie at the bandshell.

1 S. 151 Winfield Rd.
Wheaton
Online: cantigny.org

Chicago Park District’s Movies in the Parks

The mother of all outdoor film events is put on by Chicago Park District and spreads across your favorite green spaces throughout Chicago over the entire summer. Best of all, it’s free! All movies begin at dusk.

Online: chicagoparkdistrict.com

Chicago Onscreen Local Film Showcase

The Chicago Park District’s Chicago Onscreen Local Film Showcase will return, Aug. 28-Sep. 2, for another year of featuring films by local filmmakers throughout local parks across the city.

Online: chicagoparkdistrict.com

Golden Age Cinemas McHenry Outdoor Theater

Experience movies like they did in the 1950s, in your car watching under a canopy of stars, beginning May 5. At Golden Age Cinemas McHenry Outdoor Theater, kids can stay snug in their pajamas and your family can watch two movies for less than the price of one. Beginning May 31st, tickets will be $12/carload on Tuesdays only.

Upcoming films include:

May 5 – May 20: Fridays & Saturdays @ 8pm – Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 3
May 26 – June 1 @ 8pm – The Little Mermaid

1510 N. Chapel Hill Rd.
McHenry
Online: goldenagecinemas.com

Moo-V-Night.com

Moo-V-Night.com is a traveling outdoor movie business in Chicago that brings the drive-in experience to you. Oftentimes, park districts will hire their services to host outdoor movies in their parks. Follow Moo-V-Night’s Facebook to keep tabs on where they’re popping up throughout the summer.

Movie & Food Trucks at Geneva Commons

Enjoy movies and food trucks on the center green all summer long at Geneva Commons.

602 Commons Dr.
Geneva
Online: shopgenevacommons.com

Rooftop Cinema Club

Emily Hotel in Fulton Market has partnered with Rootop Cinema Club to transform its 5th-floor terrace into an open-air cinema. The summer movie lineup includes cult classics and new releases, including some Chicago-based favorites. Emily Hotel will provide a full food and drink menu and each guest receives wireless headphones to fully immerse themselves in the movie experience. Movies 4:30 p.m. and after are 18+.

311 N. Morgan St.
West Loop
Online: rooftopcinemaclub.com

Water Flicks at Navy Pier

Water Flicks returns to Navy Pier with Lake Michigan and the beautiful Chicago skyline as your backdrop. Once a week, bring your blankets and lawn chairs as the Pier presents family-friendly films.

Navy Pier
600 E. Grand Ave.
Online: navypier.org

Wednesday Night Live!

Once again, The Davis Theater will partner with the Lincoln Square Ravenswood Chamber of Commerce to convert Ainslie Arts Plaza into a beer garden and outdoor cinema for free movie nights on select dates this summer. Each week a different beer will be featured, along with wine and other refreshments for purchase. Films begin approximately 30 minutes after sunset. Dates/shows to be determined.

4836 N. Lincoln Ave.
Lincoln Square
Online: lincolnsquare.org

Movies in the Park with the Wrightwood Neighbors Association

Enjoy free movies in the park provided by the Wrightwood Neighbors Association. Pre-movie, kids can play on the splash pad, so bring a bathing suit and/or change of clothes, along with your picnic.
June 16 – Sleepless in Seattle
July 29 – Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone
August 19 – Crazy Rich Asians
Jonquil Park
1001 W. Wrightwood Ave.
Lincoln Park

Additional reporting by Maria Chambers & Amy Bizzarri

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Red Hot Mama: Why Being Pregnant in Summer Is Awesome

by Suzanna Logan

Sure, you’re hot and sweaty. But don’t let being pregnant in summer get you down. Next time you’re struggling with your summer bump, stay cool, think of your mocktail as half full, and remember these reasons why a summer pregnancy is actually pretty great.

pregnant woman by a pool with kids playing in the pool-pregnant in summer

photo: iStock

1. You don’t need as many maternity clothes. Forget the bump-friendly jackets and hard pants. You’ll be rocking flowy dresses. Buy a stretchy bikini and you may not even need a maternity swimsuit.

2. All that delicious summer produce. Get your nutrients thanks to in-season fruits and veggies like sweet corn, watermelon, berries, zucchini, tomatoes and stone fruits. Most you don’t have to cook, so meals come together fast.

3. Exercise is easier to schedule. Longer days and comfortable temps mean you’ll be looking forward to taking a long walk at dusk or going for a swim.

4. Vitamin D, baby. This powerhouse vitamin is important both for you and the baby, and those long, sunny summer days help you get your daily dose.

woman in hammock smiling wearing a sunhat and sunglasses - pregnant in summe

photo: Jordan Bauer via Unsplash

5. It’s the season for dressing down. Forget trying to stuff your pregnant self into jeans or sweating in your sweaters. Summer is all about easy-to-wear maxi dresses, flowing linen tops, and comfortable cotton tanks and shorts.

6. You can fit in relaxation time more easily. Summertime is synonymous with vacation, so many workplaces slow down and the living is just more easy. Lay in a hammock, lounge by the pool, or take a babymoon with your sweetie.

7. You have an excuse to see all the summer blockbusters. When your body is working overtime, stepping into an air-conditioned theater is considered self-care. If theaters aren’t your thing, buy a projector and watch movies on a wall at home or, better yet, out in the backyard.

8. Dare to bare your bump. Gone are the days of having to hide that you’re growing an amazing person inside of you. Being pregnant in summer is the perfect excuse to show off that baby belly, so break out those fitted outfits.

woman eating ice cream in kitchen - pregnant in summer

photo: Evieanna Santiago via Unsplash

9. Claim you’re eating ice cream for the calcium. Your baby’s need for bone-building calcium gives you the perfect excuse to grab a cone. Or two. Healthy pregnancy smoothies are also on the menu.

10. Swollen feet are a great reason to wear flip-flops 24/7. Thanks to pregnancy hormones, a gal’s feet can grow half a size, not to mention that fun pregnancy swelling. Swap out painful footwear for cushy flip-flops to give your feet a break.

11. You’ll have easier access to swimming pools. Submerging yourself in water gives you instant relief from the heat as well as aches and pains. Plus, there is no more gentle (but effective!) exercise than swimming or water aerobics when you’re working out for two. 

12. Your snuggly, warm cuddle buddy will arrive just in time for cooler weather. Having your baby in your arms as the days turn cooler is an excellent reward for being pregnant in summer. Baby snuggles are always special, but there is something particularly wonderful about cuddling a newborn wrapped in a fuzzy blanket in the fall and winter months.

—Suzanna Palmer & Eva Ingvarson Cerise

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Your Kiddos Can Unplug & Recharge at These New York Summer Camps

by Marianella Orlando
Partner Content

Ah, summer break—a child’s favorite time of year. School is out, alarm clocks are turned off and playtime is the assignment all day, every day. For parents, on the other hand, this can be a stressful time. What am I going to do with them when I’m at work? What else can they do at home other than watch TV and play? Are they going to forget everything they learned during the school year?

Fortunately for local families, there are two destinations that check off all the boxes to keep kiddos entertained and engaged while also helping them grow and learn new skills. Say hello to Day Camp @ the JCC in Manhattan and Camp Settoga in Pomona, New York. Both camps, run by the team at the Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan, offer one-of-a-kind activities that’ll teach your youngsters lifelong lessons, introduce them to new friends and keep them on the go (and off their screens!). And we’re happy to report Camp Settoga’s got some exciting new features this year (see below).

 

In addition to being exposed to vibrant experiences, camps also have positive effects on children’s socio-emotional development. According to a poll conducted by the American Camp Association, 74% of campers said that going to camp helped them complete activities they were afraid to do at first. 70% of parents also reported their child gaining self-confidence after camp.

To help you decide which camp is best for your family, we laid out the ins and outs of Day Camp @ the JCC and Camp Settoga, so you can feel confident your kids are having the best experience possible.

 

Day Camp @ the JCC

For children ages three to six, Day Camp @ the JCC in Manhattan offers a city-based experience for little ones who enjoy hands-on activities. During the June through August camp sessions, children can feel like Picasso for the day through art projects that include clay making, painting, wire sculpting and more. If they want to give Gordon Ramsay a run for his money, youngsters can serve up some flavorful dishes during culinary lessons.

For more active tots, Day Camp @ the JCC, located at the JCC's state-of-the-art facility, is fully equipped with two indoor pools, a rooftop playground and a gymnasium to keep them busy. Older campers, from five to six years old, have the opportunity to choose activities that best suit their interests or they’ve been longing to try. Electives include chess, crazy constructions, dance, songwriting, sports and storytelling. Your kid will leave camp as a jack of all trades!

Help your kiddos find their passion at Day Camp @ the JCC!

Camp Settoga

Nestled in the foothills of Harriman State Park, in Pomona, NY, Camp Settoga is the perfect destination for active adventurers and sports enthusiasts ages four to 12. With over 20 acres of lush greenery, your children can get back to nature and explore the outdoors throughout the entire summer.

Brand new for summer 2022, Camp Settoga features a mini-golf course (yes, you read that right!), tennis and basketball courts and an amphitheater. Plus: your explorers can take on the camp’s zip line and challenge course, swim laps in the Olympic-size pool or test out their green thumb in the garden.

Camp Settoga offers daily roundtrip transportation from the Upper West and East Sides, Midtown, Chelsea and Harlem in air-conditioned buses, with bus counselors overseeing every step of the journey.

Trade electronics for greenery at Camp Settoga!

 

Register your children today at Day Camp @ the JCC or Camp Settoga for an unforgettable summer!

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Everyone Out! Atlanta Escape Rooms for Families

by Tinybeans Team

There are lots of things we try to escape in Atlanta—heat, mosquitoes and traffic all come to mind—so it’s funny that our town is so wild over getting into Atlanta’s best escape rooms! Maybe it’s because you play only with your group, or perhaps because its air conditioned, but we think Atlanta is wild for escape rooms because they’re just so fun. Keep reading for our favorite escape rooms geared towards the kids, below.

Time to Escape

Featuring four fun escape experiences, which are now all private for your group only—including Al Capone's Speakeasy which features an in-room actor—Time to Escape gives players feedback on their acuity and the level of difficulty of their mission. Generally for between 2-14 players, these escape rooms include a Western, Alcatraz, Egyptian, and Speakeasy theme.

1441 Dresden Dr #230
Brookhaven
678-705-4320
Online: itstimetoescape.com

Big Escape Rooms

Big Escape Rooms offers adventures where players find clues, crack codes and use their sleuth prowess to solve a series of puzzles within 60 minutes to escape a themed room. With the clock counting down, you may make it, you may not—but one thing is for sure: you’re going to have fun! Of their four rooms, the beginner level—The Basketball escape room—is best for families with kids. It was initially designed for the Atlanta Hawks and built inside of Philips Arena in Downtown Atlanta. The story goes that your team has been trapped inside the locker room and it’s 45-minutes until game time. The coach always hides a spare key, so you have to find it in time to get your team out on the court or will you be forced to forfeit the game.

Big Escape Rooms
444 Highland Ave. NE 4th floor
Old Fourth Ward
678-800-0701
Online: bigescaperooms.com

 

Breakout Games

Whether you choose to play in person (always your group only) or virtually, Breakout Games offers you tons of rooms to choose among—and most are suitable for kids. For 60 minutes, experience immersive entertainment with friends and family, escape normal life, and be the hero of the story. Explore an island, find the kidnapper, restore ancient relics to their rightful owner, and more. For train lovers, this one has a Runaway Train experience that you don't want to miss! 3867 Roswell Rd. NE Buckhead 404-800-9207 Online: breakoutgames.com

Paranoia Quest

Paranoia Quest Whether you have Harry Potter fans, kids who would fearlessly face the Zombie Apocalypse, or detectives-in-training, this downtown location (there's one in Buford, too) will meet your escape room needs. Playing only those in your group, you'll spend 60 minutes trying to solve a challenge that's not built to be scary. 72 Broad St. SW Downtown 678-310-8735 Online: paranoiaquest.com

Amazing Escape

With only 45 minutes, you'll have to work fast to get out of that mountain cabin where you're trapped. And figure out how to save everyone from a mysterious virus. And get out of being convicted for a crime you didn't commit. Best of luck at this Norcross venue. 6040 Unity Dr. Suite C Norcross 470-294-0480 Online: amazingescapegame.com

Urban Escape Games

Investigate something fishy going on in a big-business run space station. Catch a jewel thief in the act. Unlock a researcher from a time warp. This Alpharetta and Marietta operation is "HR" and "Family" safe, so you'll find no scary or lewd surprises when you go. 20 Mansell Ct. East, Suite #275 Alpharetta 678-805-2189 Online: urbanescapegames.com

Featured photo via iStock.

—Shelley Massey

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Take Me Out to the Ball Game: A Family’s Guide to Truist Park

by Tinybeans Team

And you thought it was just about baseball. Whether your sluggers are obsessed with the Braves or your family is just looking for a fun way to spend a summer afternoon, a trip to Truist Park delivers. From a cutting-edge kids’ area in the stadium to a splash pad on your way out of it (not to mention the baby changing tables in every restroom), you’ll be singing Take Me Out to the Ball Game all summer long. Keep reading for our favorite things you won’t want to miss about a trip to Truist Park.

Truist Park Kids Zone

Gregg N. via Yelp

Hope & Will's Sandlot, presented by Children's Healthcare of Atlanta, is a state-of-the-art kids' zone with a rock-climbing wall, zipline, carnival games, and more. You'll find it in sections 152-155. Games and attractions require a token to play, which can be purchased in the Sandlot for $1 each. 

Home Run: Kids 14 and under can enjoy interactive games and experiences in Hope & Will's Sandlot at no charge, every Sunday.

Kids Club

Jeff A. via Yelp

Kids ages 3-14 can gear up like the pros and get exclusive offers for Braves games and events all year long by joining the Kids Club. The All-Star Membership is $34 and includes Ozzie AlbiesT-Shirt Jersey, headband, arm sleeve, socks, drawstring bag, and more. Or, opt for the free Braves Rookie Membership and get invitations to exclusive Kids Club access-only events. Memberships can be purchased online or at Truist Park during a game day.

Home Run: After every Sunday home game, kids ages 4-14 are invited onto the field after the game to run the bases just like a professional baseball player. No reservations are necessary—just line them up at the 3rd base ramp (section 131) at the bottom of the 7thinning. If you join the All-Star Kids Club, you can gain VIP Access to Kids Run the Bases, but you don't have to be a member to participate on Sunday's base runs. 

Food

Tiff H. via Yelp

First things first: outside food and sealed plastic bottles of water are allowed inside Truist Park as long as it fits inside a clear, gallon-sized plastic bag. One bag of food and one bottle of water per ticket will be permitted, which can save families headed to see the Braves play a considerable amount of money. Or, choose among some of Atlanta's best restaurants just outside the park, in The Battery. 

Home Run: If you spring for buying food from the vendors at Truist Park, we love the H+F Burger in the outfield and behind home plate. And for dessert, don't miss an opportunity to have a High Road Craft tomahawk bar, which is dipped in chocolate and topped with mouth-watering toppings. 

 

Potty & Nursing Room

Joe P. via Yelp

Finally! Somebody gets it! There are diaper changing stations In. Every. Bathroom. At. Truist. Park. If this doesn't make you a Braves fan, I'm not sure what will. Luckily, it's not the only reason to get behind Atlanta's hometown team. Family restrooms are found in sections 120, 143, 140, 148, 152, 313, 323, 329 and 346.

Home Run: Truist Park offers a lounge that is a fully dedicated space for nursing mothers that's staffed by a Guest Services ambassador. Located on the lower level near the left-field gate at section 141, the air-conditioned nursing lounge is equipped with comfortable rocking chairs, a diaper changing station, and a play area for toddlers.

 

Mizuno Glove Rental

Ben Hershey via Unsplash

If you forget to bring your glove for trying to catch a foul ball (or home run), you can rent a Mizuno glove at two locations in the ballpark. Glove rentals are free but a $1 charge is added to your card until the glove is returned. The glove must be returned by end of the game or you will be charged the entire cost of the glove. 

Home Run: For your best bet to catch a ball, the Home Run Porch seats can be found just beyond the outfield wall running between the left-field foul pole and the start of the Chophouse seats in right-center. Not only are these seats some of the most affordable in the park, but they're also a favorite of ball hawks looking to snag a souvenir during pre-game batting practice. Just be sure to wear sunscreen, because this part of the park gets very little shade.

Monument Garden

Ellie W. via Yelp

Learn about the history of the Atlanta Braves at Monument Garden, featuring artifacts, memorabilia, statues, and sculptures. Children will especially love the interactive displays and audio features. Find it on the Lower Level, Section 125, and don't miss the Hank Aaron tribute of hundreds of bats that spell out 755 (for his 755 home runs). 

Home Run: Head to this spot when you need a little cooling off. The giant fans and shade in this area are good at their jobs. 

—Shelley Massey

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Fellow Soccer Moms, Please Turn Off Your Cars (No, Seriously)

By Missy Woodruff

Every Tuesday and Thursday our youngest boy, Jackson, has soccer practice. It’s in a wonderful park by the river, and when the weather is nice it’s a great place to take a stroll on the miles of paths. Or, if you aren’t up for a walk, you can certainly set up a folding chair in the shade of some old Sycamore trees and watch your second graders play soccer. 

However, another option seems to be the most poplular choice, which is to sit in your idling car with the air conditioning on while texting for the entirety of the 90-minute practice! 

I’m not kidding, this is what the other moms do. Last night it was a beautiful evening, about 70 degrees and sunny with slight breeze and I was the only parent out in the fresh air. At times one of the moms would leave the sterile, air-conditioned nirvana of their idling SUV to walk over to another car to chat, but most stayed put for the entire duration of soccer practice. 

So, a beautiful spring evening is not the only thing wasted in this scenario, as idling for long periods of time wastes gas and dumps carbon dioxide into the air. This practice is obviously not environmentally friendly—and here’s the math to prove it. 

  • An idling SUV uses about 7/10 of a gallon of gas per hour and releases about 9 pounds of CO2 into the air.
  • These moms idle for 90 minutes each, which means that during every practice each of these cars waste over a gallon of gas and releases about 14 pounds of CO2 into the atmosphere.

Last night, six of the 10 moms engaged in this wasteful practice, so for each practice that equals more than 6 gallons of gas plus 82 pounds of carbon dioxide released into the air during just one soccer practice. 

(Sidenote: With that amount of gas, a Prius could drive from Philadelphia to Boston!)

Anyway, this peticular Spring soccer session has 10 weeks of practices, so you can imagine how this adds up. 

I’m not trying to preach about the environment here, I’m just fascinated by this practice on several levels. Every week this armada of idling SUVs and minivans slowly forms like clockwork, and every week I’m the only person out in the fresh air.

Most nights I’ll take our dog for a walk on the scenic paths along the river, but for at least part of the practice I’ll just be just sitting there on my folding chair, listening to the din of idling cars. (I’ve been guilty of using a few minutes of the time to track my WW points, but I try to keep my phone holstered.) So, I need to know why they do it! 

Here are a few possibilies:

  1. These moms are afraid they might encouter a mosquito. 
  2. Kids’ peanut allergies get all of the attention while millions of parents (like these) silently suffer through severe grass allergies.
  3. It’s not a random grouping at all. These moms are not texting, but coding! In fact, they may be our last line of defence against Russian hackers! 

More than likely, they are just acting like pampered zombies.

They say that “grit” is the key ingredient to success, so what kind of example are these timorous parents setting for their kids? I want to yell at them, “Turn off the A/C, put down your phone and get outside!”

Anyway, I’m trying to figure out if this is just a local phenomenon or a common practice around the country. They say that about 3 million kids play soccer each year, so if this is happening everywhere, I may have discovered the hidden source of climate change!  

I'm Missy, a mother of three and a middle school drama teacher at a private school. I'm obsessed with my Vizsla (dog), traveling, and the musical Hamilton. I also enjoy writing and sharing fun parenting stories, which is what brought me here.

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Cruising the Mediterranean with a Toddler

By Marcie Cheung

We were invited to a family wedding in Tuscany last summer and we decided to do some travel before the wedding. This was our first time taking our toddler to Europe so we really thought about where we’d like to go and how cumbersome it might be. The kicker is that the destination wedding was black-tie and involved several events where we’d need nice clean clothes, so we had to bring more luggage than usual.

 

After much contemplation, we opted to do a Greek Isles cruise on Royal Caribbean. I had never been on a cruise before (I assumed they were just for old people) and I had always said that I’d rather spend more time at the destination rather than getting there. I was completely mistaken!

 

Our cruise was the perfect fit for our 20 month old! For one thing, the service on board was absolutely outstanding! Maybe it’s because our past experiences have made our standards so low that we feel like we have to apologize when we bring our son out and about, but I almost cried several times because we were treated so nicely! They actually begged us to bring our son to the dining room each night, where he had about 15 servers calling him nicknames and bringing him bread and special treats!

 

They also had a fantastic on-board babies and toddlers program. It was open in the mornings for parents to come play with their kids for free. They had movies running in the background and several large toys. This was nice to meet other parents of toddlers and to get Owen used to the space. In the afternoons, it became a drop-off zone for just $6/hour. In the evenings it was just $8/hour and they ordered Owen dinner. He loved it so much that he didn’t want to leave when we picked him up! They gave us a pager in case there were any problems. They also gave us a bag of toys that we were able to borrow for the duration of the cruise.

 

The excursions were also the right fit for our family. First of all, toddlers are free (but we could have left him in the kids club.) The buses were air conditioned, which was a nice contrast to the August heat in Greece. We brought a backpack with snacks, lots of water, extra clothes, sunscreen, teething medications, and a camera. We also brought sun hats for everyone and our Boba carrier. The one downside to the excursions (besides the cost) is that most came with a tour guide and you had to wear little ear pieces that are very tempting for toddlers to yank out of your ear over and over again. We found that was less stress to take off the ear piece and just walk around the sites and read about them in our guide books. This gave Owen more of an opportunity to walk around and explore. While we could have done the excursions for cheaper on our own, the ease of just showing up and not worrying about missing the boat (literally) was worth the extra cost with a toddler. Now that we have a family cruise under our belt, we might opt for just one or two excursions in the future and do something more laid back the rest of the days.

 

We chatted with other parents of small children on board and one of them mentioned that kids have to be at least 6 years old to be in one of those flip-down beds. The parents ended up having to book adjoining cabins so their toddlers could be in regular beds. That was really good to know! It was a tight squeeze with the crib in our cabin and it would be impossible to cram two in there. Another parent said her daughter preferred to play in the kids club rather than do excursions, so they put her in the kids club and they’d go off the boat to explore the port. We saw a lot of parents and toddlers walking laps around the deck. We also saw parents struggling with their strollers on the cobblestones at the ports. Having been to Europe before, we knew it would be tricky and chose not to bring our stroller. We don’t regret that decision. We brought a bunch of swim diapers with us only to find out that toddlers weren’t welcome in any of the pools on board.

 

All in all, Royal Caribbean was a fantastic choice for our family! When the cruise ended, we were really sad to say goodbye to everyone (and to say goodbye for really good service!) We will definitely be cruising as a family again!

I'm a Seattle-area stay-at-home mom to my 2-year-old son Owen and I'm currently pregnant with our second baby. We love travelling with our toddler (locally and internationaly) and take advantage of the amazing events and classes offered around town. We like to be out and about!

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Jump Into Action at the Best Trampoline Spots in Town

by jen arrow

Kids are naturally as bouncy as Tigger, but you might prefer they don’t spend warm days bouncing off the walls or in the sun. Happily, we’ve got two ways to work up a sweat in air-conditioned comfort. At one of L.A.’s trampoline gyms, big kids can bounce and slam and dodge. For little ones who need a smaller bounce, a local indoor bounce-house provides the best part of the birthday party, every day.

photo courtesy of SkyZone

SkyZone
If you’ve never been to a trampoline gym before, you’ll be amazed at what a workout it is. At first it seems like the trampoline is doing all the work for you, but by the next morning you’ll discover that all those leaps and bounds used many different muscle groups. Sneaky exercise, for kids and parents! SkyZone facilities are split into three main areas: the giant field of many connected trampolines, the “sports” areas including bouncy basketball and a foam pit for diving practice, and the birthday party area for groups. Plan to bring socks or buy a pair from SkyZone; they come in one flashy color (orange) and have rubber grips on the soles (so you can make like a gecko and stick).

For Open Jump hours, we find this spot works best for ages 6 & up, but each location also hosts Toddler Time where kids 6 & under can jump with their parents and have a blast. Pay for bounce time by half hour increments, starting at $12 for 30 minutes. They also have special Family Friday Nights, which includes a family of 4 plus pizza and drinks.

There are currently locations in Covina, Van Nuys, Torrance, Riverside, Anaheim and Ventura, with two more in the works; check the website for details.

Online: skyzone.com

 

photo credit: David L. via yelp

Scooter’s Jungle
If your little ones love the giant bouncy slides and mazes that come with seasonal carnivals, you can get those thrills year-round at Scooter’s Jungle, which features a huge, air-conditioned, indoor space stocked with soft slides, bounce rooms and climbing equipment. Largely dedicated to parties on the weekends, little ones and their parents can enjoy the space during Toddler Time for $8 or all ages Free Play for $9 at various times at each location during the week. Scooter’s Jungle and other inflatable indoor gyms are great for any kid over three.

Scooter’s Jungle locations in El Segundo, Aliso Veijo, Placentia, Simi Valley and Valencia. Check their website for addresses and hours.

Online: scootersjungle.com

photo courtesy of SkyHigh

SkyHigh
Grownups, when and if you are tagged out of trampoline dodgeball, you can relax at SkyHigh’s adult lounge with a snack, big-screen plasmas and free Wi-Fi, while the kids keep on bouncing (and tire themselves out so they’re ready for an early bedtime). SkyHigh’s three trampoline rooms include the aforementioned dodgeball court as well as a foam pit for dives and safe belly flops. Grown-ups can also use the gym for SkyHigh’s famed AIR-obics trampoline-based cardio workout. SkyHigh and other trampoline gyms are best suited for kids seven & up. Prices are for how long you jump: it’s $8/30 minutes, $13/hour and $18/90 minutes.

SkyHigh has spots in Valencia and Woodland Hills. Check the website for addresses and hours.

Online: woh.jumpskyhigh.com

photo courtesy of Pump It Up

Pump It Up
At Pump It Up’s local venues there are huge rooms full of inflatable fun, plus you can order up all the available trimmings for your little one’s birthday: balloons, goodie bags, snacks and more. But if you just want to play, each location offers Open Jump times throughout the week for $10, and even hosts 3 hour drop off playdates for $25 for ages 4 & up. Check the spot nearest you to see what Open Jumps are available now.

Pump It Up has locations in Torrance, Van Nuys, Rancho Cucamonga and Chino Hills. Check the website for the addresses and hours.

Online: pumpitupparty.com

photo credit: Gordon via flickr

Your House
If you’re looking for a bounce-house rental for a party, our favorite local option is Planet Bouncy, which is based in Gardena and delivers throughout the greater Los Angeles area. They don’t have a dedicated location for visitors like the sites above, but they have phenomenal customer service on the phone and in person. Houses are set up and anchored down with great care (no bounce-house flyaways here!) and are spotlessly clean inside and out. Why not invite the neighborhood over for a bounce at your house?

310-977-4160
Online: planetbouncy.com

Where do you love to bounce with your kids? Tell us in the comments!

—Jennifer Arrow

 

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Scale New Heights with Rock Climbing For Kids

by Shannon Guyton

If you and your kids are ready for an adventurous, challenging activity (sans dirt and heat) look no further than Top Out Climbing in Santa Clarita. Combine state-of-the art climbing walls for every level with cool lounge areas, and you have a great way to spend an air conditioned day. Bonus: the enormous rock climbing gym will wear out even the most active kids. You can thank us for that mega-nap later.

Pick a Wall, Any Wall
Giant walls jut out in strategic angles like a futuristic Bubble Gum Alley. Climbers can choose from the auto-belay roped walls (where retractable straps allow younger and beginner climbers to be safely unassisted from the ground) or bouldering walls (un-roped and killer – in a good way – for your upper arms).

What to Know Before You Go
Kids as young as three can climb, but kids 7 and up will get the most out of the experience here. The most popular wall for kids allows them to climb to the top to a lounge that overlooks the whole facility.

Climbing shoes aren’t necessary, but wear closed toe sneakers if you’re not going to bring or rent ($4) climbing shoes.

Top Out offers birthday parties starting at $150 for eight kids (if you’ve ever had a party outside your house you know this is a steal!), competition leagues for kids 7 and up, and summer camp ($175 per week).


The Cost to Climb
It’s not the cheapest activity you can do, but since the gym only offers full day passes (at $16 each), you can make it last and stay all day. Bring your lunch and plenty of water, and your mommy group or other friends, and take turns supervising kids and conquering your own walls. You can also save money by taking advantage of specials and theme nights, like on the 4th Friday of the month when they offer Family Night passes for $5, or every Tuesday when admission is just $10 for the day.

And Just For You
This is a great place for parents to sweat.  In addition to the climbing walls, Top Out Climbing offers basic gym equipment like a treadmill and TRX machine, as well as Yoga classes in a peaceful studio upstairs.


Top Out Climbing
26332 Ferry Court
Santa Clarita, Ca 91354
Phone: 661-288-1813
Online: topoutclimbing.com

-Shannon Guyton

Photo credits: Shannon Guyton, Top Out Climbing

Have you taken the kids rock climbing lately?  Where do you go?

 

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Just Opened: Chirp, A Kid Karaoke Cafe

by jolie loeb

She loves Lady Gaga, you’d love a latte.  Fancy this: kids sing, moms and dads sip, and just like that, everyone is as “Happy” as Pharrell.  At Chirp Kids Karaoke Cafe, the new spot in Pasadena, they can warble along with “Frozen” to their hearts content, while you read, chat with friends and relax in air conditioned comfort.  Now that’s music to our ears.

Two Moms Got Creative So That Kids Can, Too
It was a light bulb moment ignited between two lovely ladies from Pasadena.  Moms, naturally. Jennifer Gunn and Carole Fleischman realized reserving the fun factor in karaoke exclusively for adults was a grown-up sized goof. What inhibition? Kids love to croon! And they often do, with a beautiful disregard for pitch, key and volume. So, while we can eek out a smile and a rhythmic nod to the first song or four, after that, is it so wrong to want to exit stage left and settle in with a cup of joe and a celebration of the sounds of silence?

Comes With Costumes And A Side Of Babysitting
They’re singing. Top of their lungs. They’re in costume. Perhaps some high heels. Maybe wigs. (All provided). They’re attempting harmony. (Not provided.) They’re supervised, and best part, you’re not the one doing the supervising. That’s what the Chirp staff is there for. There’s a whole other land laid out for you: a place to have your own playdate, solo or otherwise. Take it in. In an immaculately clean sprawl, there are magazines. Free Wi-Fi. A full beverage café and don’t look now, but a liquor license may even be in the works. One more round of “Do You Wanna Build a Snowman”? Go for it.

No Windowless Parent Prison
You won’t want to leave as much as your kids won’t want to leave. When’s the last time that’s happened at a kid-catering venue? Maybe never. Honestly, someone here should  issue parents the five-minute warning. This place is sun bathed, spacious, pristinely clean, and beautiful. One visit and your offspring will know exactly where they wanted to have their next birthday. And, done.

Classes and Camps and Birthdays, Oh My
The free-play floor is open (see open mic times below), but so are classes, sing-alongs, talent shows, and summer camp. Story Time Sing-Alongs (Wednesdays, 3 p.m. – 4 p.m.) are ideal for kids who covet the classics (and by classics we’re referring to “The Jungle Book” and “Cinderella”). Move to the Music targets the toddler scene; particularly the 2-5 year old Idol-ettes who know you barely have to walk to rock. And summer camps are offered up à la carte, one week at a time, celebrating creativity, crafting, song writing, and so very much singing.

Who’s Party is It Anyway?
Booking a birthday at Chirp is a gift to parents and kids alike. With three different party packages to pick from, you pretty much send out the invite, sit back, and enjoy it as much as your guests will. For the kids that need a little warm up before they feel like bursting into song, arts and games and blocks and basketball options abound. Clean up? They gotcha there too. Who’s singing now?

Frozen Fridays & Open Mic

Innnnn Summmmmmmmer! Bring it Olaf. From 2 p.m. – 4 p.m. every Friday. It’s a Friday Frozen-a-thon. Because as long as they won’t let it go, you may as well given them a place to sing about it.

What else? Open Mic time is 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays & 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Wednesdays and Fridays. $12/kid, $8/sibling, $0/chaperone. Have some coffee. Stay as long as you like, the rate is flat.

Where It Began…
Karaoke is infectious. And while you will thoroughly enjoy your retreat with coffee and  magazine, free Wi-Fi and  refreshing AC, somehow, you just may find that you end up with a mic in your hands on stage singing “Sweet Caroline”. This is the place where they can don a day glow fedora, grab their pals, and live out their American Idol dreams. No need to admit it mom, but you probably will too. No charge for embarrassing your kid. And good times never seemed so good.

-written and photographed by Jolie Loeb

Got one at home who likes to belt it out? Here’s their number. So call them maybe.

Chirp Kids Karaoke Cafe
2302 East Colorado Blvd.
Pasadena, Ca
Phone: (626) 356-9100
Online: chirpkidskaraoke.com

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