Your go-to guide for trick-or-treating in Los Angeles—plus where to go see spooky-fun yard haunts and over-the-top decor

Whether your littles will be parading the streets as Barbie and Ken or Taylor and Travis this Halloween, we’ve got the scoop on the most fang-tastic neighborhoods in town to take them trick-or-treating. These spooktacular spots have everything – oversized candy bars, animatronic monsters, homemade haunted houses, mazes, and more witches than you can shake a broomstick at. And, if you want to get an early jump on all the frightful festivities, we’ve included some tricked-out yard haunts to get you in the Halloween spirit.

The Best Places to Trick-or-Treat in Los Angeles

best places to go trick or treating
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Trick-or-Treating Near DTLA

1. Silverlake 

The popular Silver Lake Halloween street party takes place along Armstrong Ave., and the best part is it’s closed to vehicle traffic, so you can feel safe gathering goodies. If you prefer a less crowded stroll, head to North Coronado St. between Sunset Blvd. and Scott Ave. Several houses level up the Halloween theatrics, yard haunts, and special effects. The rest of the neighbors also love to gussy up and greet the trick-or-treaters. Note: Parking is snug in the hills, so park on Sunset and walk up. Where: Sunset and Coronado.

2. Angelino Heights

Trick-or-treating on tree-lined streets filled with historic Victorian homes? Sign us up! Residents love getting into the fun while handing out impressive treats from their decked-out houses. It’s a parent’s photo op dream. You can also swing by the mansion used in the “Thriller” music video at 1345 Carroll Ave. And obviously, you have to do the zombie dance—we won’t judge. Where: Carroll Ave. and Douglas St.

Westside Trick-or-Treating

3. Santa Monica

Our fave spot for little goblins who tire quickly (read: complain endlessly) is Gillette’s Regents Square, where you can spare tiny feet a long trek and still load up on candy and costume compliments. Another swell spot (and another celeb haunted locale) in Santa Monica is 16th St.—north of Montana between Alta and Georgina. It can be a bit spooky for tots, so maybe save this one for older kids. Where: Gillette’s Regents Square

4. Pacific Palisades

This Palisades neighborhood is overflowing with parents, kids, and beautifully decorated Halloween houses. Some residents even get into the “spirit,” handing out wine and hot toddies to parents. We have your attention now—do we? The narrow Alphabet Streets north of Sunset (also known as North Village) are the most trick-or-treat friendly blocks, with street names that go in alphabetical order—perfect for remembering where you started and how many streets it will take to get back. Where: Monument and Bashford St.

5. Brentwood Glen

This pocket neighborhood just west of the 405 Fwy is ideal for toddlers enjoying their first trick-or-treat experience. The community is filled with lovely family homes located very close to one another, most of which have fab decorations. There are also several kid-friendly ‘haunted’ houses and very few cars. Plus, you can pop by the nearby Brentwood Country Mart for dinner before or after. Where: The ‘Alphabet’ Sts. between Church and Beloit.

6. Beverly Hills

One look at the famous Spadena House (the “Beverly Hills Witch House”) at 516 Walden Dr., and you’ll know you’ve come to the right place for Halloween. We highly recommend getting there 5-5:30 p.m. to beat the crowds. The flats of Beverly Hills make walking easy breezy, and big homes mean even bigger candy bars and smiles from your sugar-crazed brood. Where: Walden Dr.


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Where to Trick-or-Treat in Mid City

7. Hancock Park

This picturesque neighborhood is known for its over-the-top decorations and extraordinary candy hauls, so it usually draws busloads of trick-or-treaters. These homes are seriously spookified from top to bottom, with homeowners treating Halloween like an Olympic sport. You may even catch an occasional celeb handing out candy here as well. Where: North of Wilshire Blvd.

8. Melrose

This sidewalk-friendly neighborhood south of Third St. and west of Fairfax is bustling on Halloween with plenty of doorbell ringing, candy-giving, and oohing and aahing over yard décor. Have a friend in the neighborhood? Hang at their house for pre-party shenanigans, then gather your loot in big groups. And most importantly, don’t forget an extra Reese’s for your darling parents—seriously. Where: Sweetzer Ave. and Drexel Ave.

Where to go Trick-or-Treating in The Valley

9. Sherwood Forest in Northridge

Not only can you take your little Robin Hood trick-or-treating in a mythical-sounding place, but this neighborhood usually goes all out with unique features, including a front lawn haunted maze and a Hogwarts-esque castle, complete with gargoyles. Where: Near the Valley Performing Arts Center, south of Nordoff and west of Balboa.

10. Burbank

This quiet neighborhood is home to many Disney folks who take Halloween very seriously. The homeowners here tend to go all out with decorations worthy of a movie set, and a few even set up haunted houses and shows on their lawns. But most of all, the friendly folks and swell candy make for a wonderful Halloween. Where: Mariposa and Valleyheart.

11. Studio City 

This modest neighborhood, just west of Laurel Canyon, is the go-to spot for families living in the surrounding hills. It’s like one big block party featuring homes decorated to the hilt with pumpkins galore, haunted scenes, and witches’ brews. Residents say that more than 700 little candy-gobbling goblins routinely make their way down these streets, so it’s a lively and fun atmosphere. Begin your pilgrimage on Mound View and fan out to the surrounding streets. Where: Laurel Terrace and Mound View.

12. Toluca Lake

Toluca Lake is the stuff of legends when it comes to trick-or-treating. Supposedly, Bob Hope used to personally give out full-sized candy bars at his home in the tiny neighborhood just off the 134 Fwy. We can’t vouch for the story’s authenticity, but Toluca Lake has jumped on the idea that they do Halloween better than anyone else. It’s hard to argue with that once you realize the neighborhood is closed to traffic, filled with tricked-out homes (loads of industry folk live here and love to show off their prop and set design skills), and there’s plenty of candy. Where: Toluca Estates Dr. and Valley Spring Lane.

13. Sierra Madre

We love this spot for its small-town vibe and gorgeous craftsman-style homes that always understand the assignment regarding elaborate Halloween décor. Also, being in the foothills of the San Gabriel Mountains means lots of trees and a chance for kids to scuffle through crunchy leaves as they make their way down the streets—providing a much-needed dose of nostalgia to East Coast and Mid-West parents. Where: Baldwin and Alegria.

Where to Trick-or-Treat in Pasadena

14. Old Pasadena

While the festivities in Old Pasadena can’t be topped with all the shops handing out candy, costume contests, and more, check out these two neighborhoods for some good old-fashioned trick-or-treating. Families are out in full force, pulling little ones in wagons while older tykes charge safely from house to house, filling their bags. Where: Monterey Rd. between Windsor Pl., Diamond Ave., Marengo Ave. and Fair Oaks.

Visit-Worthy Halloween Haunts in Los Angeles

If you’re looking for a little appetizer before the main course on Halloween, may we interest you in a deliciously sinister yard haunt? These homes and locales are tricked out to the nines when it comes to spooktacular decor and homemade haunted house fun. Whether you drive by or stroll through them, they’re worth the trip. Make sure to check them out online beforehand to gauge each location’s scare level—some are fab for all ages, while others have freaky clowns…and we’ll just leave it at that.

1. Circus of Nightmares in Burbank

One word—clowns. Like waaaay too many of them. And man, do they have issues. This year’s Circus of Nightmares presents “Spectre,” which might be their creepiest event yet. Stop by this family-friendly(ish) display filled with evil clowns and other circus spookiness if you dare. Organizers promise to provide “extra frights” on weekend nights, so you’ve been warned.

Where: 113 S Brighton St., Burbank
When: Oct. 18-31 with live shows on 20, 21, 27, 28 and Halloween, Sunset-10 p.m.
Onlineinstagram.com/circus_of_nightmares

2. Rotten Apple 907 Haunt in Burbank

This private home Halloween attraction started as a child’s birthday party and has grown to become a destination that has drawn in thousands of visitors for the past 30 years. On average, over 4,000 people walk through the haunted house doors yearly! This year’s attraction, titled “Let’s Go to the Movies,” is bound to garner stark raving mad reviews. Admission is free, but donations are requested to support the Volunteers of Burbank Animal Shelter.

Where: 907 N. California St., Burbank
When: Oct. 21, 22, 28, 29, 31 from 7 p.m.-10 p.m.
Online: rottenapple907.com

3. Beverly Hills Witch House

If Real Housewitches of Beverly Hills was a thing, there’s only one place the gals would park their blinged-out broomsticks—the Spadena House, a.k.a. the “Beverly Hills Witch’s House.” The fabled Tudor-style house was built in 1920 as a set for silent films, including Hansel and Gretel. With its steepled brown rooftops, exposed stone, and ramshackle shutters, it doesn’t need decorations; it’s Halloween-ready year-round.

Where: 516 Walden Dr., Beverly Hills

4. Yard Haunts in the Venice Canals

This four-block area goes all out for Halloween with pumpkins and twinkle lights strung along the canals and even some boats sporting ghoulish displays. The narrow walkways get crowded come Halloween, so you may want to check it out during the week when there are fewer people.

How to Get to the Canals: Park in the parking lot at the end of Venice Blvd. and walk south on the boardwalk to 25th Ave. From there, you’ll see a sign and a walkway for the canals leading you into the area.

5. The Holiday House in Mar Vista

This mind-blowing Halloween walk-through display is run by multiple computers and control panels and features animatronics, atmosphere effects, and theater-grade light fixtures. Entry is free but donations are welcome. On Halloween, the house will be handing out candy.

Where: 3547 McLaughlin Ave.
When: Sept. 9 – Nov. 2, 6p.m. – 10 p.m. nightly
Online: marvistaeggcompany.com

6. Witch City in Santa Clarita

Double, double toil and trouble; fire burn and cauldron bubble. Witches abound at Santa Clarita’s Witch City yard display. This year’s show is more extensive and spookier than ever, with 13 custom witches, loads of animatronics, and creepy props.

Where: 25420 Via Jardin, Santa Clarita
When: Sept. – Nov. 1, 7 p.m. – 11 p.m. nightly
Online: witchcityhaunt.com

7. Sombras Cemetery in Santa Clarita

The residents of this forgotten cemetery are restless and disturbed. They could use a little company and are waiting just for you. (cue Vincent Price’s laugh here). This family-friendly graveyard display features lights, sound, moving props, and fog.

Where: 26041 Sombras Ct., Santa Clarita
When: Oct. 13, 14, 20, 21, 27, 28, 31. Weekdays and Sun. leading up to Halloween are lights only, while all other days feature full effects.

Make sure to capture all the fall fun—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.

Acts of kindness can be small gestures or big efforts, and they’re all important

Kids are naturally compassionate, so why not take a few minutes today (and every day) to foster that inherent kindness? From simple gestures like giving up your seat on the bus to giving your kids’ teacher a “just because” gift, we’ve found over 75 simple acts of kindness that’ll allow you and the kids to pay it forward.

1. Offer to pick up groceries for an at-risk or elderly neighbor.

2. Compliment a stranger.

3. Collect your child’s old books that they no longer read and donate them to a children’s center, shelter, or local library.

4. Pay the bridge toll of the person behind you.

5. Bring flowers to a coworker or friend.

6. Carry someone’s groceries to their car for them.

7. Send a friend a positive text.

8. Ask a stranger how they are feeling today, and actually listen to the answer.

9.  Bake cookies and deliver them to the local fire or police station.

10. Leave a big tip for a server or delivery person.

11. Make sandwiches and distribute them to the homeless in your neighborhood.

12. Help a senior cross the street.

13. Give up your seat on the bus.

14. Deliver a meal or a potted plant to a random neighbor.

15. Make a kindness calendar with the kids!

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Related: All the Ways Kindness Can Change Who a Kid Becomes

16. Donate dog or cat food to the local animal shelter (call to ask them what brands they need). Many shelters want and need old blankets and towels as well.

17. Send a postcard to someone you love, even if they live nearby (or in the same house!).

18. Make a donation of a birthday box to a local food shelter: include items like cake mixes, frosting, candles, balloons, and party hats.

19. If it’s a hot day, hand out cold bottles of water.

20. If it’s raining, share your umbrella for a few blocks.

21. Make kindness cards from drawings and paintings of kids’ art. Drop a few by the nearest senior center and ask if they can use them for anyone who needs a bit of cheer.

22. Pick up trash off the street.

23. Call an old friend or relative.

24. Thank a teacher.

25. Host a bake sale to end child hunger.

26. Spring for coffee and donuts for your co-workers.

27. Head to the park with some chalk and write sweet messages to the world.

28. Make a thank you card for the postal worker who delivers your mail.

29. Give thanks for everyday things, not just big acts or gifts. “Thank you for making me laugh today,” or “Thank you for helping me figure out that math problem,” or even simply, “Thank you for loving me.”

30. Smile at 10 people.

smiling is an act of kindness
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Related: Why Celebrating Differences & Teaching Kindness Hand-in-Hand Is So Important

31. Slip a note complimenting someone’s parking on the windshield of their car.

32. Distribute random hugs.

33. Buy a cup of coffee for the person behind you in line at the coffee shop.

34. Make a friendship bracelet and give it to a new friend.  

35. Compliment someone sitting near you.

36. Share your toys.

37. Leave your change in a vending machine after you buy something.

38. Paint a picture for a neighbor you don’t know that well.

39. Play with someone new on the playground today.

40. Call a friend or relative, and tell a joke.

41. Leave a positive note on a bulletin board.

42. Read a book with a child.

43. Rake leaves, shovel snow, or do a little yardwork/weeding for your neighbor.

44. Take out your neighbor’s trash for them.

45. Start a Little Free Library.

building a free little library is an act of kindness
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Related: 13 Fred Rogers Quotes about Kindness That We Need Now More Than Ever

46. Walk a neighbor’s dog.

47. Put a post-it note with a positive message like, “Today will be awesome” on a random door.

48. Offer to run an errand for someone.

49. Hide a few toys or Matchbox cars in the sand at the playground.

50. Leave a sweet note in your spouse or partner’s wallet.

51. Leave a dish of fresh water out for neighborhood dogs in front of your house or business.

52. Use sidewalk chalk to say hello to a neighbor.

53. Give your child’s teacher $5 toward classroom expenses or help to pay for a field trip.

54. Write a letter to the first person that pops into your mind (and don’t forget to send it!)

55. Help another kid with his homework.

56. Buy a spare umbrella and find someone who needs it.

57. Get some silly glasses and wear them until you make someone laugh.

58. Do something to make your hometown more awesome.

59. Let a stranger go ahead of you in line.

60. Look in the mirror and give yourself a compliment.

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Related: How to Paint Rocks for Kindness & Where to Share Them

61. Consider the flash mob.

62. Do something nice for yourself.

63. Hold the door open for someone.

64. Add extra time to your meter for the next person.

65. Gather up gently used clothing and donate via ThredUp using their Donation Clean Out Kit.

66. Starting today, thank someone once a week for a year. You can send a thank-you via mail, email, text, phone, or in person. Make a little list of thank-yous and revisit them in 52 weeks.

67. Sit with someone new at lunch.

68. Ask a kid you don’t usually play with to play with you at recess.

69. Find a story or post you like, and let the writer know it meant something to you.

70. Be patient while waiting in line.

71. Leave a glowing review for a business or employee who helped you or your kids.

72. Give someone the benefit of the doubt.

73. Be a courteous and kind driver.

74. Be kind to urban animals and wildlife: do not chase pigeons or throw coins in a fountain where fish live.

75. Leave a note of kindness in the pocket of a coat in a clothing store, like “You look great in this!” or “You are more important than you could ever know.”

76. Order a new book from our list of diverse books for kids, and have it sent to a friend.

77. Send a friend or relative a sweet surprise from Sugarwish.

78. Wave hi to someone you don’t know!

79. Ask a friend if they need any help: could you walk their dog or drop off a book to read?

Want more? Check out the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation’s idea page.

—with additional reporting by Taylor Clifton

 

 

Explore one or all of these amazing museums in Chicago with your young inquisitive minds

Chicago has some of the best children’s museums in the world where interactive play, with a focus on engaging youth development, is the modus operandi. We’ve rounded up the GOAT (greatest of all time) museums for kids, all with special family programming and events, that are fitting for various ages and interests. You can also try adding one of these fun kids’ activities in Chicago to your agenda and make a whole day of it. Get a delicious meal, and spend the day lost in knowledge.

Field Museum of Natural History

The world's most famous T. Rex, Sue, got the royal treatment with brand new digs on the 2nd floor and you should stop by to check out her now-more-accurate skeleton. Volunteer docents will, at your request, lead you around the museum on a public tour. Also, in Stanley Field Hall there are discovery carts for hands-on learning and exploring. If you're up for a stroll outside, the Rice Native Gardens are perfect for a peaceful fresh-air break. 

1400 S. Lake Shore Dr.
Online: fieldmuseum.org

Chicago History Museum

The history museum might not pop into your head right away when considering which museum to bring your kids to, but it’s definitely worth a look-see. Learn how blues music came to Chicago through southern black migrants, bring classroom studies into focus through a deeper look into Dr. King’s work within the Civil Rights movement, get a glimpse into what Chicago looked like during Lincoln’s era, and visit the Sensing Chicago permanent exhibit where kids can ride a high-wheel bicycle, play with baseballs at a recreation of Comiskey Park, and climb into a life-sized Chicago hot dog (with no mustard, of course). And of course, there are several family-friendly events and happenings throughout the year.

1601 N. Clark St.
Online: chicagohistory.org

Shedd Aquarium

The Polar Play Zone is designed with littles in mind, which means kids have the run in the penguin play place, submarine, and touch tanks with real starfish and stingrays. Visit the Amazon Rising and Wild Reef exhibits, see an aquatic show with dolphins, ask questions during an animal chat, and watch a 4-D movie. Also, do not miss seeing the live diving and feeding at the Caribbean Reef.

1200 S. Lake Shore Dr.
Online: sheddaquarium.org

Bronzeville Children’s Museum

The first and only African American children’s museum in America, Bronzeville Children’s Museum’s exhibits and galleries highlight Black culture. Learn about famous politicians, artists, musicians, and athletes that lived in this neighborhood, take part in enriching S.T.E.M. activities, learn about prominent Black inventors, and explore why healthy eating is important for families.

301 S. Stony Island Ave.
Bronzeville
Online: bronzevillechildrensmuseum.com

WNDR Museum

Voted "One of the Top Five Immersive Art Experiences in the Country" by USA Today, WNDR Museum is filled with more than 20 interactive artworks and multi-sensory installations by cutting-edge artists and designers. As guests travel through WNDR, they are taken on a multi-dimensional journey in which they serve as an extension of each creator by interacting with various installations such as the WNDR Light Floor made of 100's of motion sensor LED panels for guests to stride and dance across, the Midwest’s only Infinity Mirror Room by iconic Japanese artist Yayoi Kusama, and much more.

1130 W. Monroe St. 
West Loop
Online: wndrmuseum.com

Museum of Illusions

We guarantee that this spot will be an absolute delight for kids as they have a chance to immerse themselves in the wonderful world of illusions. You’ll find more than 80 visual and educational exhibits featuring holograms, stereograms, optical illusions, and immersive rooms designed to tease the senses and trick the mind. 

25 E. Washington St.
Loop
Online: moichicago.com

The Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn

Play-based activity is important for children’s development emotionally, physically, and mentally. The Children’s Museum in Oak Lawn has designed activities and exhibits that engage children in social activity in response to that fact. Popular highlights include Water Adventure, Safe Haven Animal Shelter, Nanoscale: The Science of Small, The Moo Café, and Dream a Dream Theatre.

5100 Museum Dr.
Oaklawn
Online: cmoaklawn.org

Kohl Children's Museum

Children eight and under will love exploring this museum with hands-on exhibits to keep them busy for hours. The love of learning is nurtured here through music, art, water play, and nature-focused exhibits. Shop in the Whole Foods Market, make sandwiches in the play café, take care of stuffed pets at the vet, and send hand-made cars down a chute at the SpotHero Car Garage. New activities and exhibits are featured on the regular, which means that there is always something fresh and fun at the museum.

2100 Patriot Blvd.
Glenview
Online: kohlchildrensmuseum.org

Chicago Children’s Museum at Navy Pier

Play and learning are bridged together at this museum, where kids can: tackle the Cloud Buster, a 30-ton, 37-foot-tall steel dreamscape that celebrates adventure and risk-taking—qualities that are inherent to childhood—excavate dinosaur bones, explore the way water moves through pulleys and pipes, pretend to fight fires, and discover how our skyline full of buildings is created through architecture and engineering. 

700 E. Grand Ave.
Navy Pier
Online: chicagochildrensmuseum.org

Adler Planetarium

Since 1930, Chicagoans have been learning and exploring at this planetarium, which includes interactive permanent exhibits, the Doane Observatory, and highly-rated Sky Shows. Special programming exists for kids of all ages, including special nights out for teenagers.

1300 S. Lake Shore Dr.
Museum Campus
Online: adlerplanetarium.org

Peggy Notebaert Nature Museum

At Peggy Notebaert, children are connected to nature and science through the museum’s hands-on exhibits, family events, and education programming. Learn about the specimen and archival collections: birds, eggs, and nests; mammals; amphibians, and reptiles; insects and spiders; fossils, and more. The most popular exhibit is the Judy Istock Butterfly Haven, where you can watch 40 species of these delicate creatures flutter around the 2,700-square-foot indoor greenhouse. Other fun events include interactions with turtles, live animal feedings, and storytimes.

2430 N. Cannon Dr.
Lincoln Park
Online: naturemuseum.org

Museum of Science & Industry

This museum has it all: flight and ride simulators, a submarine, a coal mine, a chick hatchery, a mirror maze, storms created by science, model ships and railroads, a fairy castle, farming equipment, pinball machines, and classic metal toys, a whispering gallery, and a Pioneer Zephyr. Four films are shown in the large dome theater. This museum is massive—most people don’t see everything in one visit, so plan accordingly and wear your favorite walking shoes.

5700 S. Lake Shore Dr.
Online: msichicago.org

DuPage Children’s Museum

DuPage Children's Museum's 20,000 square feet of play space will keep little kids and their imaginations busy for hours. There are designated spaces for babies and toddlers and older kids can run around and get their sillies out. Exhibits are situated throughout the space for extra entertainment and learning. Enjoy storytime, movement and music classes, and pop-up playtime.

301 N. Washington St.
Naperville
Online: dupagechildrens.org

Exploritorium

This hidden gem museum delights kids with hands-on exhibits about light, water, wind, and more. Come wearing your thinking cap—or just romp around. Attractions include a giant “Lite Brite” pegboard, musical instruments, and climbing tubes and tunnels that stretch two-and-a-half stories.

4701 Oakton St.
Skokie
Online: skokieparks.org

KidsWork Children’s Museum

Local parents and educators founded KidsWork because they wanted a safe and fun place for kids to play and learn. What they’ve found, is that the community as a whole benefits. Kids can roam around the museum’s two floors, discovering science, art, and movement exhibits. Highlights include the Pet Vet, Imagination Theater, Art Works, Tot Spot, and Light exhibits.

11 S. White St.
Frankfort
Online: kidsworkchildrensmuseum.org

Wonder Works

Wonder Works is best for little ones, ages birth to eight years old. This children’s museum is a designated shoe-free play space, with things to climb, jump and run on. Art, performance, design, and building are the main objectives here and kids are encouraged to be creative and let their personalities shine. Over 600 special events are held every year, including a concert series, a celebration of African American History, and Dino Works. Kids here can meet other pals and brush up on their social skills and adults can hang out with new friends, too.

6445 W. North Ave.
Oak Park
Online: wonder-works.org

Looking to give back this season? Sign up for one of these family-friendly volunteer opportunities in Atlanta

For many Atlanta families, the holiday season is about giving back to the community and making a difference in the lives of those who need help the most. And not only is that great for our community, it’s great for kids too. That’s why we rounded up five local organizations that need your support more than ever. Whether you want to rescue a cat, make a craft, or deliver a meal, your family can sign up for volunteer opportunities around Atlanta with local nonprofit organizations and significantly impact the lives of those in need now. 

Check out these kid-friendly volunteer opportunities Atlanta families can participate in year-round

Meals By Grace

When it comes to volunteer opportunities Atlanta families should know about, this one tops our list. This group meets weekly to create, prepare, and deliver hot, nutritious meals and additional food items to local families in need with limited or unreliable transportation. However, the first Sunday of the month is called "Kids in the Kitchen," an opportunity for children younger than 13 to participate in meal prep in the kitchen. Your crew can choose to participate in various service teams, from making laundry detergent to working in the kitchen. Be sure to bring $10 per volunteer to cover food costs. 

Good to Know: Families can sign up to volunteer on the first Sunday of every month from 1-3 p.m.

Midway United Methodist Church
5025 Atlanta Hwy.
Alpharetta, GA
Online: mealsbygrace.org

Related: 7 Reasons Volunteering with Your Child Is a Great Idea

FurKids

Get involved with one of the only animal shelters in Georgia that welcomes children of all ages to volunteer in many capacities. The Cat Shelter and Headquarters in Cumming, GA, has about 200 cats living in a large, cage-free environment that feels more like a daycare center than an animal shelter. Your family can volunteer to help clean up and play with the cats. Or, you can get some excellent reading practice with their Read to Cats program. All ages are welcome to pick their favorite feline-friendly story to read to their new furry friends.   

Online: furkids.org

Hands On Atlanta

In the wake of the pandemic, nonprofit organizations in Atlanta need more volunteers than ever. With Hands On Atlanta, your family can volunteer to help beautify local parks or paint rundown buildings. But, it can be tough to coordinate schedules during the busy holiday season. Thankfully, this organization makes it easy to find the right fit for your family. The need is great right now, and there's an option for every family that wants to get involved.    

Online: handsonatlanta.org

Pebble Tossers

From gardening to trail maintenance to virtual notes of encouragement, this organization has lots of volunteer opportunities Atlanta families can participate in. Pebble Tossers creates pathways for youth to engage in volunteerism to effect real change in our communities and to develop lifelong leadership skills. Their nonprofit partners are top in their areas of need and offer age-appropriate service projects for local families. Visit the online opportunities calendar and look for the options labeled "Family Friendly" or "Family fun" to get started volunteering today.    

Online: pebbletossers.org

Related: 5 Ways to Volunteer as a Family, Even with a Busy Family Schedule

Helping Mamas

Families with new little ones trust this organization to help. Helping Mamas partners with more than 150 agencies in the Atlanta area to serve the immediate needs of parents in need. Their volunteer opportunities are open to anyone age 5 and older and include office tasks, shopping assignments, sorting donations, and making art and crafts for needy families.

Online: helpingmamas.org

Sometimes, the simplest things are the ones we forget. There are plenty of eco-friendly ideas out there, but the key to staying on the green side is making little changes to sprinkle into our everyday lives. We’ve rounded up 30 of our favorite tips and tricks to help busy parents live a more environmentally-conscious lifestyle—you may even save some time, energy and “green” along the way!

 

  1. Ride a bike to run errandsBut of course! Burn cals, not fuel as you enjoy a fun ride around town, making everyday errands anything but boring—WHEE! 
  2. Refill hand soap containers instead of buying new ones. Hand soap is one of those things that you seem to go through endlessly. Not only is a reusable pump enviro-friendly, but for this reason, it’s also cost-effective since many brands offer a discount for a refill sans bottle.
  3. Turn that cardboard box into a craft. A cardboard box has endless play possibilities. Turn it into a car, a playhouse—even a game. And it’s easier than you think to make that box the hot new plaything in your home.
  4. Pack school lunches using reusable containers. Ever make a sandwich for your kid’s lunch only to realize you’ve run out of bags to put it in? Never run out again, by going reusable for lunch!


  5. Reuse containers for new uses. Wait! Don’t throw away that yogurt tub—give it a new life by using it to store some of your kiddo’s art supplies.
  6. Grow a herban garden. Your favorite fresh herbs can sprout up without much space! Save a trip to the store and skip the plastic by growing herbs and veggies at home. Get some inspo here.
  7. Coordinate a clothing swap with friends. A closet full of clothes but nothing to wear? Us too. Put together a clothing swap to trade your family’s threads for some new looks!
  8. Trade in your car seat. A few times a year Target’s car seat trade-in program keeps millions of pounds of plastic from landfills. All you have to do is drop off your old seat at a participating Target location, get a coupon and rest easy that you’re saving the planet, one seat at a time.
  9. Instead of tossing old clothes, donate.So you swapped but still left with some of your primo items? Donate them to your local family shelter, overseas for those in need or to your local do-good repurposing shop.
  10. Do a neighborhood toy swap. Toys: In one day and out the next, but now what do you do with them? Set up a neighborhood toy swap, of course! Get that shopping adrenaline rush without opening your wallet AND declutter your space all in one fell swap.
  11. Open windows and turn off heat/AC on nicer days. Okay, maybe this seems like a no-brainer, but it’s easy to forget. So turn off that A/C and let the sunshine in!
  12. Reuse toilet paper rolls for crafts. Toilet paper is always on a roll in our home… but what to do with the actual roll? So. Many. Things! Is it a telescope? A Megaphone? A new nose for Tickles the Bear? The sky’s the limit for kids’ creativity here. (Just don’t forget that you’re out of toilet paper.)
  13. Cut down on craft supplies with a dry erase board/reusable tablet. Tired of watching reams of paper disappear? Get your little Picasso an erasable drawing tablet so they can create a masterpiece without creating waste—now go hug a tree and they just may hug you back for this save!
  14. Melt down broken crayons into new, toddler-friendly ones. That’s it. That’s the whole thing. Broken crayons be darned. Gather up like colors, melt down on the stove, and pour into an ice cube tray, maybe even a fun shaped tray like stars or hearts—now you have the perfect size for those cute little chubby toddler hands.

  15. Make DIY cleaning solutions. Not only is this cost-effective and planet-friendly, but it’s also a great way to make sure whatever you’re spiffing your home up with is non-toxic. Here are some of our favorites.
  16. Keep produce fresher longer by freezing it. At the grocery store, sometimes our eyes are bigger than our stomachs. If you have a bunch of greens, herbs or berries that you just know you won’t get to, freeze them! Lock in all that freshness and lockout rot (and regret.) Now you can use em’ when you want em’.
  17. Get books from the library. We bet your local library is a magical place, and there is nothing like that book smell—ahh! So go check it out, literally, and get your next read at your personal house of all things books, for all interests and all ages—the library!
  18. Recycle your old electronics. Check with your town’s garbage pick-up provider to see if they have days or drop-off sites. Most Goodwill stores accept these items for recycling.
  19. Meatless Mondays! Switch up your burgers to veggie for a delicious eco-friendly swap of your family’s favorite comfort food. Heck, go crazy, maybe even swap your regular fries for sweet potato! Need some yummy recipes? Here you go!
  20. Throw a neighborhood plant party. Ain’t no party like a plant party! Why? Not only are you beautifying your neck of the woods, but you’re bonding with your neighbors. Just ask everyone to bring any extra seeds or plant starts to share!

  21. Do a neighborhood trash pick-up. Here’s a family activity that costs zero dollars, will beautify your hometown and will give you that warm fuzzy do-good feeling: Taking part in a local trash pick up! April is Earth Month, so it’s the perfect time to team up and clean up.
  22. Repurpose old shirts for cleaning rags. Have t-shirts that have seen better days? Give them a new life, as your new best cleaning buddy. No need for more paper products, use these well-loved rags to clean your windows, shine up your bike, countertops and more.
  23. Reuse your plastic bags as trash can liners. Plastic grocery bags make the perfect small-sized trash can liners (we’re looking at you, bathroom wastebasket). So put em’ in the can! 
  24. Visit your local farmer’s market. Show local farmers and vendors some love! Spending your hard-earned dollars in your community means it stays in your community. Not only that, you’ll have access to the freshest products money can buy and maybe even get to chat with the person that grew those ingredients you’ll be eating for lunch—that’s pretty cool!
  25. Turn off the faucet when kids brush their teeth. Teaching kids to conserve water is so important, not just for the environment, but for your water bill. Post a note in the bathroom as a reminder and reward kids with an ocean-themed sticker when they help save water for our aquatic friends.
  26. Swap lightbulbs for LED. Not sure what kind of lightbulbs you have? Then it’s the perfect time to swap them for energy-conserving LED bulbs which are widely available—grab some at your local hardware store today!
  27. Join a local beach clean-up. If you are lucky enough to live by a body of water, why not return the favor with a little tidying? Post in a local community group to round up some folks who also want to keep their beach clean so all can enjoy it—including the magnificent creatures it holds.
  28. Bring a reusable water bottle. Going somewhere? Don’t forget your water bottle! Do a little research and get one you love that suits your hydration needs (metal, plastic or glass, for instance). By choosing the water vessel of your dreams, you are sure to reach for it each and every day.
  29. Pack your own utensils. Families are always on the go—and eating on the go! Keep some utensils and reusable straws in your bag for quick meals without the extra waste. Throw a reusable, lightweight bamboo utensil set in your kids’ backpacks, too!
  30. Donate old blankets and towels to an animal shelter. Don’t know what to do with those old blankets and towels that are not quite gently used enough for traditional donation? Bring those much-needed comfort items to your local animal shelter! Our furry friends will thank you.

 

—Jamie Aderski

 

So many eggs, so little time. Your little detectives can hone their skills as they hop, run and walk to find Easter eggs all over Chicago and the ‘burbs. These hunts will have you zipping around parks and zoos and even sneaking around in the dark. Expect candy, toys, prizes and more. Try to contain your egg-citement and let the hunt begin.

Egg Hunt at Senior Citizens Memorial

Join Friends of Holstein Park for a morning egg hunt and decorate a flower pot as a welcome to spring. Egg hunt for ages 0-4 at 10 a.m., followed by a hunt for ages 5 & up at 10:30 a.m. Please be sure to bring along a basket.

Apr. 2, 10 a.m.-11 a.m.; 2228 N. Oakley Ave., Bucktown; More info

Flashlight Egg Hunt at Iron Oaks

Load the flashlight with batteries and head out for this twist on the traditional egg hunt. First up is craft time and then kids hit the trails to find treat-filled eggs hidden in the woods.

Apr. 8, 7:30 p.m. & 8:30 p.m.; 20000 Western Ave., Olympia Fields; More info

Eggventures in Wonderland at NEWCITY

Join Alice & Friends for family fun with a holiday Easter Egg Hunt featuring over 30,000 eggs pre-stuffed with toys and candy. Find the magical, coveted “Golden Eggs” to win prizes from behind the looking glass. Meet Alice in Wonderland characters while enjoying music, face painting, balloon artists and treats & beverages for kids and adults. 

Apr. 9, 2 p.m.-5 p.m.; 1457 N. Halsted, Lincoln Park; More info

Egg Hunt at Commercial Club

Celebrate Easter with music, games, free arts and crafts and 3 egg hunts split by age: 2 & under, ages 3-5 and 10 & under.

Apr. 9, 10 a.m.-11:30 a.m.; 1845 W. Rice St., Ukrainian Village; More info.

Egg Hunt at West Lawn

Kids ages 3-12 are invited for a fun-filled egg hunt.

Apr. 9, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.; 4233 W. 65th, West Lawn; More info

Little Beans Cafe Easter Party

Little Beans Cafe invites families for an Easter celebration. The Easter Bunny will make an appearance so parents can take photos and kids will be treated to an egg hunt, pizza, snacks, crafts and playtime.

Apr. 10, 4 p.m.-6 p.m.; 430 Asbury, Evanston; More info

Eggs-trordinary Egg Hunt & Flashlight Egg Hunt

Glen Ellyn is offering two chances to fill your baskets. Search with the lights out for the Flashlight Hunt on the 14th, or go the next morning for well-lit fun at the Eggs-trordinary Egg Hunt. Bring baskets and join in for these crazy egg-filled events with a chance to meet and snap a pic with Glen Ellyn's Hopper Cottontail.

Apr. 14; Churchill Park, 240 Geneva Rd., Glen Ellyn; More info

Apr. 15, Mary Knoll Park, 845 Pershing Ave., Glen Ellyn; More info.

Easter Egg-Stravaganza at LPZ

Start your morning rubbing elbows with the Easter bunny at Lincoln Park Zoo's Easter Egg-Stravaganza. The day will include an egg hunt, photos with the bunny and other characters, rides on the carousel and train, music and outdoor activities and games. 

Apr. 16, 8 a.m.-noon; 2001 N. Clark St., Lincoln Park. More info

Bunny Rock 5K and Egg Hunt

Hop, skip and run for a great cause. Support the Red Door Animal Shelter while your gang runs or walks through this bunny-filled 5K. After the race, candy lovers won’t want to miss the massive Egg Dash, for kids ages 2-10. 

Apr. 16, 9 a.m. (egg hunt at 10:15 a.m.); Montrose Harbor,  601 W. Montrose Dr., Uptown; More info

Hop 'N' Stop in Northcenter

Go on an egg-hunting mission around your beloved Northcenter businesses, and see who can collect the most eggs. After all the eggs are gone, everyone can party in the Town Square with scrumptious nibbles and a chance to meet the Easter Bunny.

Apr. 16, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.; 4017 N. Damen Ave. Northcenter; More info.

Eggstravaganza at Kennicott Park

This free family-friendly event for ages 3-12 features an egg hunt, games, food, face painting and arts & crafts. 

Apr. 16, noon-2 p.m.; 4434 S. Lake Park Ave., Kenwood; More info.

Spring Egg Scramble in Wheeling

Hit the turf at Wheeling High School's football field for fun, games and a free Easter egg hunt. There will be a giveaway bag for the first 500 kids. 

Apr. 16, 10:45 a.m.-11:15 a.m.; Wheeling High School, 900 S. Elmhurst Rd., Wheeling; More info.

Egg Hunt at Brainerd Park

Kids ages 3-13 are invited for a festive egg hunt, arts & crafts, games and more.

Apr. 16, 1 p.m.-4 p.m.; Brainerd Park, 1246 W. 92nd St., Washington Heights; More info

Egg Hunt at Sheridan Park

Enjoy a free Easter egg hunt for kids ages 3-12.

Apr. 16, 10 a.m.-1 p.m.; 910 S. Aberdeen St., University Village; More info

 

 

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There’s an old saying that you can judge someone’s character by the way they treat children and animals, for those are the ones who cannot care for themselves. By any measure, the Russian invasion of Ukraine that began Feb. 24 is atrocious, but for children and pets, it is particularly perilous. As millions of Ukrainians flee their country—now a warzone—some have found a way to bring along their pets. For others, leaving them behind was their only heartbreaking option.

Dnipro, Ukraine – March 3, 2022: A young woman hides in the basement with her pet during an air raid alert. (O_Lypa/Shutterstock)

TODAY reports that Estonia is welcoming refugees and their cats, dogs and even a few parrots, according to Hellika Landsmann, Tallinn City Government Chief Specialist. Her job involves supporting the local animal shelter, and she also volunteers for the nonprofit Estonian Society for the Protection of Animals, fostering more than 100 dogs and cats over the years.

“When the animals get here, they are really hungry and they haven’t had water in days because people don’t know how long a time they have to travel,” she told TODAY. “At the moment, all our hotels and all refugee apartments are ready to help. … We understand that it’s not easy and the best way to help is to keep the family together as much as they can.”

Refugees fleeing the Russian military often don’t know how long they’ll be traveling, or what precise route they will take to reach safety. As a result, NBC News reports that the streets are strewn with personal effect that—at some point in the journey—become just too cumbersome, or unnecessary, to take along. But the pets? They remain by the sides or in the arms of their owners.

But many pets remain in Ukraine because they were separated from their families, or because they cannot be evacuated from shelters and face bombing by the Russian military. One Ukrainian animal shelters, Sirius, is housing more than 3,000 animals, trapped near the capital of Kyiv. Staff and citizens are calling for a “green corridor,” or a safe passageway to transport pets out of the country. But time has shown that despite what Russia may agree to, there will be no safe passage for anyone, including pets, out of Ukraine during this invasion.

“Every time when Russia is saying, ‘Yeah, we will let you leave,’ it’s bullets and nobody’s going anywhere,” Landsmann said. But in staying, pets and their caretakers face ever more danger. Larger organizations are coordinating support for local animal shelters, but by attempting to help, many volunteers become targets, themselves. 26-year-old Anastasiia Yalanskaya and two other volunteers were shot and killed by Russian troops after delivering food to a shelter in Bucha, which is less than 20 miles outside of Kyiv. The shelter had been without supplies for three days.

“I know at least a few animal helpers or shelter volunteers who got shot because they want to visit shelter animals and wanted to bring some food to them,” Landsmann said. “And they were just shot. … The war is not over and it’s getting worse every day.”

If you want to help, these organizations have been verified and are taking action to help the pets fleeing and trapped in Ukraine.

UAnimals
Ukrainian nonprofit UAnimals works to get food to local shelters and zoos. Landsmann supports the efforts of this Ukrainian organization so much that she commended their work to Mike Arms, CEO of the Helen Woodward Animal Center in Rancho Santa Fe, California. Now the nonprofit is pledging to donate $50,000 to animal welfare organizations like UAnimals — and is calling for animal lovers to match the pledge.

“Like the people, they’re innocent. Those bombs — you know how sensitive dogs’ ears and cats’ ears are and what they must be going through,” Arms told TODAY. “We want people to open their hearts and their wallets to help others that really need it right now.”

Humane Society International
The nonprofit Humane Society International announced an agreement with the Romanian Red Cross to transport pet food into Ukraine to care for animals in shelters, homes and on the streets. HSI is also working with local animal welfare organizations in Germany, Poland and Italy to provide emergency pet supplies like food, blankets and veterinary care at refugee reception points.

“We have heard from refugees we’re helping in Berlin that the loyal companionship of their pets has kept them and their families going on the arduous journey to safety,” said Sylvie Kremerskothen Gleason, HIS’s Germany director, in a statement. “For children especially, their pets are an enormous source of comfort to help them cope with the trauma of war.”

International Fund for Animal Welfare
The IFAW provides refugees with entry requirements in nearby countries for families traveling with pets, and works to get supplies to wildlife sanctuaries and animal shelters in Ukraine.

“War creates treacherous situations for both people and animals. Broken glass, debris and sharp objects can harm animals lost in the confusion, and starvation is a very real danger for those who escape the missiles, bombs and bullets,” Robin Ganzert, CEO of American Humane, told TODAY in an email.

Network for Animals
The international nonprofit Network for Animals evacuated nearly 1,000 dogs and cats from Ukraine since Russia’s invasion.

“We focused immediately on getting the animals out because a lot of people, when they fled, could not take their animals with them or, very sadly, they thought that they would be returning quickly and left their animals locked up in apartments,” David Barritt, executive director, told TODAY.

“What’s remarkable — it always gets me — is dogs love us. They love human beings,” Barritt said. “They may have been shot at by a human being five minutes earlier, but they love us … they see salvation in our faces.”

Eurogroup for Animals maintains a list of reputable organizations working to help pets impacted by the Russian invasion of Ukraine, and you can also make donations to support emergency needs and recovery efforts in Ukraine during checkout at Petco locations through March 20, according to Lisa Lane Cardin, director of marketing and development for the nonprofit Petco Love.

But Landsmann reminds us “The honest truth is that even if we give our maximum or more, we still don’t have the possibilities to help all of them. The war is there. They have a lot of bombings every day and sometimes in every half an hour. So even if the shelter is OK in one hour, all the animals can be killed in the next hour,” she said. “If we don’t stop Putin, it will get worse. We have to act now.”

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Having a kid who loves animals doesn’t mean that you are destined to clean up dog hair all over your house for years to come. There are plenty of ways to get hands-on experience with animals from volunteer opportunities to programs like 4-H that teach animal husbandry along with leadership skills. Find our favorites below!

Build a butterfly garden.

NHM

Butterflies are more than just beautiful insects with wings: they play a vital role in the production of flowering plants which means without butterflies many, many plants would not flower, fruit and seed. Give these jewel-toned pollinators a place to call home no matter how much space you have. We have all the info you need to build your own butterfly garden here

Volunteer your time as a citizen scientist.

iStock

Did you know that you can donate your time to help scientists study all of the living creatures in your area? Kids make great citizen scientists as they can use their observational skills and learn about plants and animals that live near us. SciStarter has a great search tool where you can look for projects that need volunteers in your area. Search for stinkbugs in your back yard, head to a nearby water source and listen for frog mating calls and collect samples from your backyard to send to scientists. What a great way to learn and give back! 

Join your local 4-H organization.

Kate Loweth

Not just for farm communities, 4-H organizations are a great way to get hands-on experience for kids who love animals. Whether you want to learn about chickens, bees, goats, pigs or other animals, 4-H has a program for you. Kids learn about animal husbandry by learning what makes specific breeds special. Best of all, you often don't even have to keep your 4-H animals at your own home as they can stay at the 4-H farm. The program is also great at developing kids as leaders as it is fully youth-led. Find a 4-H club near you

Volunteer at your local animal shelter.

iStock

Do you have an animal shelter near you? Often times kids can volunteer as play partners to shelter animals when a parent comes along with them. Looking for another way to help out? Shelters often need blankets for incoming pets as well as food and other supplies. Consider running a supply drive in your neighborhood or school to contribute that way! 

Offer to walk your neighbors' dogs.

A Latinx family cuddles with their dog on the couch
iStock

If you want to get your "dog fix" without the commitment of owning your own mutt, see if any neighbors are looking for a dog walker. Often older individuals would love this opportunity to give their animal some exercise and you can have fun teaching Fido some new tricks while you're at it! 

Stay the night at a farmstay.

Mimi O'Connor

If you've always wanted to wake up with the chickens, book a weekend at a nearby farmstay. These cozy cabins come with loads of opportunities to interact with animals and farm-fresh eggs for your breakfast. 

Get the kids started with composting.

antrania via pixabay

Composting teaches kids to be environmentally conscious and it's also a great way for them to learn all about the tiny critters like bugs and worms that make our dirt what it is. If they really get into worms, try vermicomposting!

Try a small animal instead.

Kate Loweth

Small animals teach kids a lot of the same skills that they can learn from having a dog or cat like being responsible for another creature's needs. Bearded dragons, hampsters and even backyard chickens are a great way to satisfy a child's want for a pet with much less work on your part. 

—Kate Loweth

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