Giving birth is a workout in itself—it’s one of the most intense physical challenges a person will ever experience, which deserves more than a little rest and relaxation. But when you feel ready to get back into your fitness routine (and you get the green light from your doctor), you can jump in with these 10 free online workouts to help your post-baby body feel good. There’s something here for everybody, and every body, from gentle beginner workouts to challenging calorie burns!

 

20 Minute Postnatal Legs & Core by FIT by Larie

What it is: No equipment needed for this 20-minute workout in which you use your body weight to your advantage. Larie leads you through various sets of lunges and pulses that keep your core firm and will make you feel the burn.

Why you’ll love it: This is a great option for that very first post-birth foray into exercise because it’s quick and you can modify every move by going deeper or staying higher. Squeeze this into your day during naptime, even micro-naps! And Larie is chatty, which keeps you focused yet also somehow distracted from all that thigh-shaking.

 

12 Minute Post Natal Core Workout by BodyFit by Amy

What it is: Full of movements that focus on the midsection, this short video shows postnatal mamas how to start getting their abs back in shape by targeting the deep abdominal muscles. These aren’t your traditional ab exercises, but instead a slow reintroduction to the core muscle connections.

Why you’ll love it: The exercises are broken up by lots of restorative stretching, and if you feel like you want to challenge yourself more, do the video again.

Related: 9 Easy Ways to Squeeze In a Workout When You Have Kids

 

Mom and Baby Stretch and Workout by BrettLarkinYoga

What it is: A chance to spend 20 minutes with your baby with plenty of stretching and yoga poses for you. You may not break a sweat, but you’ll be engaging all sorts of muscles and connecting with your little one face-to-face. Great for babies who aren’t yet mobile.

Why you’ll love it: You get the effect of being in a mommy & me yoga class without having to deal with leaving the house.

 

Postnatal Yoga for Strength and Flexibility by Sara Beth Yoga

What it is: If you didn’t exercise during pregnancy and are just getting back into the swing of things after baby, you may have to work up to this 30-minute yoga instruction. It’s a basic flow routine with balance and core work.

Why you’ll love it: The voiceover instruction is calming, as is the music. And Sara Beth encourages pushing yourself through individual challenges.

 

CARiFiT: Post Natal Foundations workout by BeFIT

What it is: A 15-minute baby-wearing workout full of smooth, controlled movements. You’ll do plenty of squats, lunges, and low-impact exercises that are safe to perform with a baby strapped to your chest.

Why you’ll love it: The movement will probably put your baby right to sleep!

Related: Feel-Good Fitness Gear From Amazon

 

Post Baby Bounce Back by TiffanyRotheWorkouts

What it is: Thirteen minutes of Tiffany’s Boxer Babe series with punches, kicks, and all.

Why you’ll love it: Anyone who likes a group workout will feed off the energy of this big group video.

 

Beginner Pilates Workout by Fitness Blender

What it is: Easy, breezy exercises to shape and tone on a daily basis. You’ll spend 17 minutes doing 14 different exercises and stretches, 12 reps each, mostly lying down.

Why you’ll love it: It’s a great way to decompress and relax before sleep, especially if you’re not sleeping through the night yet.

 

Postnatal Arms and Abs by Nancy Taylor

What it is: A half hour of strength training with dumbbells and a burst of cardio to boot.

Why you’ll love it: Nancy has infectious energy and gives little pep talks throughout the routine.

 

Diastasis Reci RepairPhysio Workout for Beginners by Michelle Kenway

What it is: Some simple seated exercises to help reconnect your abdominal muscles after pregnancy.

Why you’ll love it: It couldn’t be easier to squeeze this 4-minute video into your busy day with baby.

 

Pelvic Floor Safe Core Exercises by Michelle Kenway

What it is: Michelle shows new moms how to safely and properly activate the abs without aggravating any pelvic floor issues.

Why you’ll love it: It’s not sexy, but it’s essential!

Now that the brutal winter chill is gone, we’re excited about the prospect of getting up and getting moving this spring. Our all-star lineup of our favorite family fitness picks is your go-to guide for getting started. Whether you’re an experienced exercise enthusiast or just starting to find your stride, we have some of the best family fitness gear for you and the crew to keep you going all season!


flat lay of suspension fitness training system
DICK'S Sporting Goods

TRX FIT Suspension Trainer

$100 BUY NOW

We're really big fans of products that do it all, and the TRX FIT Suspension Trainer is one of them! This total-body fitness system relies on your body weight for resistance and allows you to focus on strength training, cardio, yoga, HIIT, pilates, and more. It comes with two anchoring options, too, so you can take your workout anywhere!


grey jogging stroller
buybuyBaby

Joovy Zoom 360 Jogging Stroller

$340 BUY NOW

Having a little one doesn't have to mean you have to give up your favorite walks or runs! This jogging stroller offers a suspension designed for any terrain and a one-hand folding frame, so you can get out there with less fuss. Make sure to check out the great ratings, too!


stack of black interlocking foam gym floor tiles
Target

Interlocking Gym Floor Mat Tiles

$41 BUY NOW

If you can't make it to the gym, make the gym come to you! This set of interlocking puzzle-style floor tiles covers up to 24 square feet of space and can be customized into any shape to fit your space, allowing all your family fitness gear to stay in one place.


feet on balancing board
Uncommon Goods

Standing Desk Balancing Board

$170 BUY NOW

Upgrade your standing desk game with this Standing Desk Balance Board! With adjustable difficulty and a design that's easy on all floors, this is an awesome way to break up your day and keep moving!


Fat Brain Toys

Gonge Riverstones

$65 BUY NOW

While you're getting your balance on at your desk, get your kiddos hopping with these Gonge Riverstones! These non-slip "stones" are fantastic for honing balance and fine motor skills, and they'll love going from a simple jump pattern to more advanced scrabbled patterns.


Amazon

Smart Weighted Fitness Hoop

$40 BUY NOW

Super fun, and, quite frankly, feels pretty darn good, this weighted hula hoop system is perfect if you're looking for a less-intense, low-impact workout that doesn’t require a ton of equipment!


Amazon

Pilates Bar Kit

$60 BUY NOW

Everything you need for your Pilates practice in one kit! It's a full gym set and fully adjustable so it can be used by the family.


SPRI

Exercise Dice

$10 BUY NOW

The best way to get the whole fam moving? Make it fun! These fitness dice shake up the usual routine and make it easy to get everyone's blood pumping.


CAMBIVO

Home Gym Exercise Mat

$95 BUY NOW

Creating a designated workout space doesn't have to mean adding on a room to your house! Throw down this protective mat and set up your home gym in any corner! It also comes in 3 colors.


MoveActive

MoveActive Grip Socks

$16 BUY NOW

Stay balanced with grippy socks from MoveActive! They come in a bunch of colors and styles so everything from yoga to Pilates and weight training feels a lot more secure!


EASYFEET

EASYFEET Athletic Insoles

$40 BUY NOW

Shoes not offering enough support? Super-charge them with high-grade shock absorption with gel forefoot and heel pads enhance cushioning. These athletic insoles offer a foam layer that provides comfort from heel to toe. The velvety breathable cover provides foot comfort, too!


FORME

FORME Fitness Mirror

$2500 BUY NOW

Bring the trainer into your home with the award-winning FORME Fitness Mirror! The modular fitness mirror provides a host of classes such as boxing, meditation, yoga, HIIT plus live 1:1 personal training with a trainer who tracks performance from week to week and provides on-the-spot feedback for improving technique and overall fitness.


Sweat Shaper

Sweat Shaper

$40

Although this one definitely isn't for kiddos, the Sweat Shaper is an easy way to add an extra layer to your workouts!

BUY NOW

Amazon

FITDECK

$16 BUY NOW

Did we mention how much we love fitness games? Fitdeck offers 50 different exercise cards that don't require equipment and are easy for kiddos to do!


Born Toys

Born Toys Pretend Play Gym Set

$30 BUY NOW

For your little-littles, this play gym is perfect for getting them used to moving with the whole family, without them playing with equipment that could be dangerous.


Amazon

Ninja Warrior Obstacle Course

$90 BUY NOW

They've seen the show; now give your kiddos the excitement of becoming a real Ninja Warrior thanks to this complete set!

 

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

All images courtesy of retailers.

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From Santa Monica to downtown, here are all the seasonal pop-up ice skating rinks where you can channel your inner Gretzky or Dorothy Hamill

The Yuletide season is here with all of its wintery goodness, regardless of how comfortable the temperature might be in Southern California. It’s possible to go play in the snow near Los Angeles, but if you want to do something really cool, this is a great time to take to the ice. While there are plenty of holiday experiences for the whole family in town, there’s something special about bundling up and going ice skating in LA.

 

https://www.instagram.com/p/CX_7kX7sqOK/?hidecaption=true

L.A. Kings Holiday Ice At LA Live

Grab your little hockey fans and head to this ice skating rink nestled outside the home of the L.A. Kings. Your skating tykes can imagine they're scoring one for the home team at the arena while you whirl around the rink and admire the twinkling lights of the 66-foot Christmas tree towering in the center of the ice.

Insider Tip: Buy a fast pass for $45 and go straight to the front of the line, which can get long at this popular spot.

Dates: Nov. 26-Jan. 8
Cost: $25/person, $20/children ages 6 and younger

800 W. Olympic Blvd.
DTLA
Online: lalive.com/la-kings-holiday-ice-la-live

https://www.instagram.com/p/Ck9eNVWr--v/?hidecaption=true

ICE at Santa Monica

This ocean-side rink is the only place in town where your mini ice dancers can celebrate the holidays just blocks from the beach. If you plan it right, you could splash in the Pacific and go ice skating all on the same day—a true only-in-LA adventure. If you'd rather just stick with skating, then enjoy a few loops around the rink and cozy up with some hot chocolate from the snack bar or walk around the corner to the 3rd Street Promenade for a bite.

Insider Tip: If your pint-sized skaters are looking to get more serious about their ice skills, sign them up for weekly lessons at the rink through the Randy Gardner School of Skating. Beginner and advanced group classes are available on Sunday mornings.

Dates: Now-Jan. 16
Cost: $20/person (includes skate rental)

1324 5th St.
Santa Monica
Online: downtownsm.com/ice-at-santa-monica

Holiday Ice Rink in Pershing Square

The Holiday Ice Rink in historic Pershing Square is surrounded by the glittering lights of downtown's skyscrapers, making it a scenic location for ice skating in LA. On Wednesday evenings from 7 p.m. to closing, keep the fun spinning with DJ HowLy, an old-school turntablist with a cutting-edge, new-school vibe. Each night has a theme such as Holiday Hits Night, Ugly Sweater Night, Disco Night, and more.

Dates: Nov. 23 -Jan. 1
Cost: $20/person (includes skate rental)

532 S. Olive St.
Los Angeles
Online: holidayicerinkdowntownla.com

Get your motor running—these picture-worthy waterfalls are all within an easy drive of Washington DC

When the feels-like temp hits 100, it’s time to cool off at one of the area’s local watering holes. Take a dip at a near-by lake, splash around at a local water park or enjoy beautiful vistas at these worth-the-drive waterfalls. Not only do these scenic spots  provide the perfect backdrop for a family photo, but there are added health-benefits to chasing waterfalls. Did you know falling water has scientifically proven mood changing abilities? From Virginia to Maryland to West Virginia, we’ve rounded up the best kid-friendly waterfalls within a day’s drive of Washington, DC.

Visit-Worthy Waterfalls in Virginia

Overall Run Falls in Shenandoah National Park: Up for a hike? This 8.5-mile loop through Shenandoah National Park rolls right past Overall Run. If you’ve got short legs in your crew, skip the scenic route and take the one-mile shortcut trail from the parking lot straight to the falls. Best known for having the tallest waterfall in the park, at 93 feet, Overall Run Waterfall is most impressive when the stream runs high in the spring, but is still worth the visit in the summer when the falls are milder.

Insider Tip: Pack the swim suits: the creek runs over a smooth, sloping rock wall that works as a fantastic water slide.

Time from DC: 2 hours
Hiking Ability: Moderate

Shenandoah National Park
Skyline Drive MP 21.5
Luray, VA
Online: nps.gov

Related: Take a Hike! 9 Easy Trails for Kids Under 5

White Oak Canyon Area: Choose between the one or four-mile trek—either way you’ll reap the rewards of up to six waterfalls and swimming holes. Due to the abundance of swimming options, this area tends to draw large crowds so plan on arriving early. The water here is shallow, so toddlers can splash and play in the water with ease, but trails do get slippery so make sure everyone is wearing the proper footwear. 

Time from DC: 1.5 hours
Hiking Ability: Moderate

White Oak Canyon Lower Falls Parking Lot
187 Chad Berry Ln.
Syria, VA
Online: nps.gov

Related: 25 Natural Swimming Holes to Put on Your Bucket List

Great Falls Park: While the water cascades more than “falls” in this park, the view is gorgeous nonetheless. And with overlooks a quick and easy 5-to-10-minute walk from the Visitor Center, the falls at Great Falls Park make for a great outing with little ones. Bonus: These paths are stroller friendly!

Editor’s Note: The Visitor Center is currently closed due to construction through Spring 2023. 

Time from DC: less than 45 minutes
Hiking Ability: All levels

9200 Old Dominion Dr.
McLean, VA
Online: nps.gov

Related: 12 Local Stroller-Friendly Hikes

Scott’s Run: When you need a quick waterfall fix, make the trek to Scott’s Run. It’s just an easy 30-minute trip from the city. Younger kids may not make the 2-mile journey to the main attraction, but smaller falls along the trail are fun for little feet to jump in. The Park Authority regularly runs guided hikes and educational programs, so be sure to check the website before you head out on the trails. 

Time from DC: 30 minutes
Hiking Ability: Moderate

7400 Georgetown Pike
McLean, VA
Online: fairfaxcounty.gov

Visit-Worthy Waterfalls in Maryland

Kilgore Falls: You’ll find Maryland’s second largest waterfall within Rock State Park. This impressive natural wonder is a popular local attraction, so you will need to reserve your spot prior to your arriving  Fri.-Sun.; May 1 through Labor Day. Kilgore Falls boasts one of the shortest walks from a parking to the scenic falls (it’s just a 1/2 mile trail), making it a great choice for families with little ones who rather swim than hike.

Time from DC: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Hiking Ability: All levels

3318 Rocks Chrome Hill Rd.
Jarrettsville, MD
Online: maryland.gov

Swallow Falls State Park: Most of the trails in this park are easy and kid-friendly, but be prepared to steer kids away from rocky edges and potentially dangerous situations if you make it to the top of Muddy Creek Falls (a 54 ft. drop). You can take a dip in the waters here, which is refreshing and Insta-worthy, but be forewarned this photo op also draws summer crowds. We recommend visiting on a weekday for a quieter experience or head to near-by Swallow Falls or Lower Falls where the falls are smaller (and so are the crowds).

Time from DC: 3 hours
Hiking Ability: All levels

2470 Maple Glade Rd.
Oakland MD
Online: dnr.maryland.gov/swallowfalls

Cunningham Falls State Park: Cunningham Falls State Park, part of Catoctin Mountain Park, has it all: waterfalls? Check. Swimming, boating, and fishing? Check check check. A beach? Check! There are even campgrounds,  picnic areas, and hiking trails. Located about 18 miles north of Frederick, the park closes when filled to capacity, so plan to arrive early.

Time from DC: 1.5 hours
Hiking Ability: All levels

14039 Catoctin Hollow Rd.
Thurmont, MD
Online: dnr.maryland.gov

Visit Worthy Waterfalls in West Virginia

Blackwater Falls State Park: If you’ve got a budding photographer, take them on this hike popular among both amateur and professional photographers. Elekala Falls is a short walk from Blackwater Falls State Park Lodge; these cascading falls are popular among photographers, but require going off-path and can potentially be dangerous. A simpler, family-friendly alternative is to head to Blackwater Falls, from which the park gets its name.

Time from DC: 3 hours
Hiking Ability: All levels

1584 Blackwater Lodge Rd.
Davis, WV
Online: wvstateparks.com/blackwater-falls-state-park

Skateboarding is undeniably cool. Kids know this. You know this. If your adventurer is chomping at the bit to grind on some rails, visit one of these kid-friendly skate parks—all with something a little different to offer. Some have an area set aside for beginners so your soon-to-be shredders can learn and roll at their own pace. (P.S. We’re also sharing the best spots to take lessons.) If boarding isn’t their thing, some also allow bikes and rollerblades. Grab your helmet and protective gear and set out for a day of fun.

Where to Skateboard Outdoors

Logan Boulevard Skate Park

Logan Boulevard Skate Park, located under the Kennedy expressway in Logan Square, is somewhat sheltered for weather and every bit as cool and gritty as it sounds. All wheels are allowed, including BMX bikes, at this well-lit skater’s haven. The cool aspect of this park is the City of Chicago and the Chicago Park District commissioned original art to decorate the skate park—sculptures and art made from recycled materials and chrome. Also, Haas Park is nearby, which features a playground, fitness center and spray pool.

Grant Skate Park

Don't let the huge size of Grant Skate Park and scope intimidate you. This three-acre park located at the southern end of Grand Park includes more than a dozen rails, ramps and stairs as well as straight stretches of concrete. BMX bikes and skates are also welcome. Parents can hang out in one of the viewing areas to keep an eye on their kids and enjoy the skyline views.

Indian Boundary Skate Park

Indian Boundary Skate Park is part of a larger 76-acre sports facility in Bolingbrook. This outdoor concrete skate park features half and quarter pipes, pyramids and lots of rails for grinding. The best part: beginner skateboarders can learn the ropes in a designated practice area with a small box, complete with rails and training platforms.

Central Park Skate Plaza

Bolingbrook's 2nd skate Park, Central Park Skate Plaza is significantly larger and includes ramps, ledges, banks, rails, staircases, steps, skate benches, a platform and skate boxes. It was designed to mimic an urban plaza and offers spectacular views of the popular Central Park. Bikes, boarders and bladers are all welcome. 

Community Park West and Swenson Park

Glenview has two fun outdoor skate parks designed for skateboarders and inline skaters only. While both Community Park West and Swenson Park are good for all levels, Swenson park is ideal for beginners. At 7,000 sq. ft., it’s smaller and a bit easier for little kids to navigate and practice tricks. Swenson also has an in-line hockey rink. Parents can visit the nearby playground for younger siblings. Also, a big upside is the park is designed with a skatelite surface—a durable paper-composite material—instead of concrete, which makes falls a little less painful.

Frontier & Centennial Park

The Naperville Park District has 2 skate parks located at Frontier Sports Complex and Centennial Park. Frontier was renovated in 2021 and both contain several skating elements including half-pipes, quarter-pipes, boxes, rails and more. Centennial is located along the DuPage River, next to the outdoor community pool and a large park. Non-motorized skateboards, in-line skates and scooters are welcome. 

Audubon Skatepark

Elk Grove Village offers both an indoor and outdoor skate option at Audobon Skatepark. It's a great place for all levels to practice tricks, ride ramps and rails and grind ledges. Be warned, the indoor park is not heated so they close if the temps drop below 10 degrees (or at staff discretion). 

Wilson Skate Park

Near Montrose Beach, Wilson Skate Park is well lit and fairly small, giving your skater a chance to get their bearings without a crowd or ton of distractions. This oasis is known for its smooth transitions, large pools, ramps and grind boxes. Plus, parking is free. You’ll see a bunch of families and kids here on weekends along with some of Chicago’s famed female quad skaters.

Skate Park at Olympic Park

Schaumburg Park District's Skate Park at Olympic Park was designed to mimic elements of parking lots, street curbs and other skater-enticing areas you'd find in a cityscape. Skaters will also find staircases, benches, walls of various heights and a large concrete bowl. 

Ryann Buss Zone Skate Park

Located at Knox Park in McKenry, Ryan Buss Zone Skate Park offers a variety of ramps and rails that will challenge even the most experienced skater. Helmets are required at this skate park.

Where to Skateboard Inside

Asylum Skate Park

If it’s raining outside or you just want a different experience, check out the indoor Asylum Skate Park and skate shop in Lake Bluff. BMX, inline, skateboards and scooters are welcome here. If your kids are completely new to skateboarding and need to learn the basics, Asylum offers camps and lessons that will teach them how to start, stop, drop-in, olly, ride ramps, balance and do basic tricks. 

For Skateboarding Lessons

SK8 Chicago

Certified Personal Trainer and lifelong skateboarder Ben Karbin created SK8 Chicago to provide lessons to the next generation of boarders. Over the last 20 years mentoring young skaters, he's honed his ability to make aspiring skaters feel comfortable and confident to learn new tricks and techniques. SK8 offers skate lessons, clinics and camps for all levels and also builds custom ramps. They have equipment available to rent if you don't have your own and can offer advice if you'd like to make a purchase. 

Little Ripper Skateboarding

Looking for a way to keep kids active during the pandemic shutdowns, Logan Square dad Enrico Hufana started Little Rippers Skateboarding. Hufana and other experienced instructors give kids ages 3-14 an introduction to boarding so they have the confidence to safely navigate all skate parks. 

For more information on Chicago Park District skate parks, check out their website.

— Wendy Altschuler & Maria Chambers

RELATED STORIES:
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You’re Off! Walks & Runs Perfect for Chicago Families

Portland is known for its bike friendliness and spring is the perfect time for young bikers to get their peddle on, even if it’s for the first time. Finding bike paths where kids of all ages and abilities can learn and practice their bike riding skills isn’t as hard as you might think. From tree-lined paths to state parks and waterfront trails, we’ve lined up our picks for the the best bike paths for beginners in and around Portland. So grab your helmet, it’s time to ride.

iStock

Fanno Creek Trail

Winding through Greenway Park near Washington Square in Beaverton, Fanno Creek Trail is  really great for anyone just starting out. It’s a short trail at 1.8 miles one way, making it perfect for a quick out and back ride. The paved path is flat and is mainly in parks and along the creek, with plenty of trees and occasional shade. The trail continues through several communities if you’re willing to connect the paths, but for a beginner jaunt, just stick with the park section.

1.8 miles one way
Location: Scholls Ferry to Denny Rd, through Greenway Park, Beaverton
Online: accesstrails.org

Banks-Vernonia Trail

This forested path west of Portland is Oregon’s first rails-to-trails, running from the towns of Banks to Vernonia. Once a set of train tracks to haul lumber, it’s now a beautiful flat path through bird songs and ferns, and over 13 trestle bridges. Six different trailheads allow access along the way, including LL Stub Stewart State Park. The small town of Vernonia prides itself on being bike-friendly. Pro Tip: Check the website in advance for any trail closures (due to logging) or other hazards. The advisories are always being updated.

Distance: 21 miles one way
Location: West of Portland, Vernonia
Online: oregonstateparks.org

Springwater Trail

Another one of Portland's iconic bike trails, this trail winds along Johnson Creek, jumping back and forth along at least 10 bridges on it’s way out to Gresham. You can start either downtown at the Willamette River, or jump on the trail from several parks and other access points like Beggars-Tick Wildlife Refuge, Leach Botanical Gardens, Powell Butte Park, and Gresham’s Main City Park. The wide paved path is easy to follow and nice and flat for all levels of riders. If your older kids are ready for a challenge, tell them you’re going to ride all the way to where the trail ends at Boring, Oregon, to see if it matches up with it’s name!

Distance: 21 miles one-way, though it’s easy to cut into shorter bits
Location: Downtown Portland through Gresham to Boring
Online: portlandoregon.gov

Tualatin River Greenway Trail

If you are looking for wide scenic bike paths, this local trail is worth checking out. Your family bike ride will follow a 12 foot wide multi use pedestrian and bike path that meanders through trees, along the Tualatin River, by creeks, and past wetlands. The biking option is 4.6 miles long and runs from Brown's Ferry Park to Tualatin Community Park into Durham Park and Cook Park in Tigard. There are plenty of places to stop, play and explore along the way.

Distance: 4.6 miles
Online: tualatinoregon.gov

a father and two children biking on one of the best beginner bike paths in Portland
Free Range Kids

Champoeg State Park Trails

Get ready for a gorgeous bike ride that takes you back in time. The 4 miles of paved path winds through Champoeg State Heritage Area, where early settlers to Oregon held their provisional government and young bikers can access the trails. You’ll ride through wildflower meadows, riverbanks, and forests on a path that never feels too busy. Off-path, you can dig into history at old farmsteads and interpretive centers. 

Distance: up to 4 miles of trails
Location: 5 miles south of Newberg, OR
Cost: $5 vehicle pass required
Online: oregonstateparks.org

Waterfront Park Loop/Eastbank Esplanade

This trail is one of Portland's iconic bike rides, looping around the Willamette with bridges, skyscrapers, fountains, and a floating bike path. When you’re ready to cross the water you can choose which bridge you want to use. Choose between the Steel Bridge, Hawthorne, or best of all—Tilikum Bridge, which doesn’t allow cars. There are lots of options for breaks, with two fountains on the downtown side, and on the other side you’ll find OMSI or the floating bike path—perfect for dipping hot feet into the river come summer!

Distance: approximately 6 miles looped, easy to cut into shorter parts
Location: Downtown Portland
Online: portlandoregon.gov

Marine Drive Trail

One of the best Portland bike trails, this is a flat, wide, straight trail great for beginners, running right alongside the Columbia River you can expect gorgeous views of the water, boats and the marina. This is part of Portland’s 40 Mile Loop, but it’s super easy to access anywhere for a quick ride. It’s a great place to practice bike skills. The western side starts at Kelley Point Park and goes through some industrial areas. Another good option is to start at Blue Lake Regional Park, where you can end your day with some splash pad fun when hot weather eventually hits!

Distance: 17 miles one-way
Location: NE Portland
Online: traillink.com

Trolley Trail

An urban interpretation of a rails to trails, this 6 mile path follows an old streetcar route from Milwaukie to Gladstone. The path has roots way back in 1893! Today it winds through neighborhoods and parks. Start at Riverfront Park in Milwaukie and follow the paved path as far you’d like. Several parks along the way make great stopping points, and the trail ends in Gladstone, or can be easily extended to Oregon City.

6 miles one-way
Location: Milwaukie Riverfront Park to Gladstone
Online: ncprd.com

 

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All that inside air starting to feel a little . . . stale? Whether you’re trying to green your space and purify your air with houseplants, looking for flowers for someone special or want to become a member of the plant-of-the-month club, we’ve hand selected a few of our favorite sources for plants and flower delivery, directly to your door. Read on to check them out.

Bloomscape

Bloomscape

Whether you’re looking for a trio of plants or one big parlor palm, Bloomscape delivers the right plant directly to your door. Choose your plant online: you can filter by collection, light needs, care level, pet friendly and more. Plus they offer 24-hour advice from the Plant Mom to help you choose and maintain the perfect indoor plant for your space. You can also choose the color of the pot when ordering. Shop specific categories like the easiest indoor plants

or pet-friendly plants.

bloomscape.com

The Sill

The Sill

The Sill ships plants directly to your door with care card and online access to answer questions about finding the right houseplant for you. They offer a nice array of orchids along with popular houseplants, and they even offer faux plants for people who just can't even with the living thing. You will also find botanical gifts including art and bath products, including adorable things like a Botany Cross Stitch Kit for the true plant nerd in your life. In addition, The Sill offers a monthly plant subscription where you receive a new potted plant each month! Prices vary. 

thesill.com

Plantgem

plantgem.com

We love the idea behind Plantgem, the online plant retailer working with farmer-florists to bring artfully curated seasonal collections of unique and on-trend plants to the home gardener. Shop their shipping now section to find ideas for Valentine's Day or give an IOU and go for the garden kits that come with 15 young plants—3 plants of 5 different varieties—that take the guesswork out of planting a harmonious garden (they ship in March). 

plantgem.com

The Bouqs

The Bouqs

Looking for fresh, festive arrangements that are anything but FTD? The Bouqs is your new favorite service. Whether it's for the holidays or you want to order up from their birthday line, you'll find the right flowers arriving fresh to your loved one's door. You can also find floral subscription boxes to keep things fresh! 

thebouqs.com

Plants.com

plants.com

We love all of the Valentine's Day options over at plants.com especially this heart-shaped succulent arrangement and this heart bamboo with candle

plants.com

Bloomsybox

Bloomsybox

If you’re looking for a fresh floral arrangement delivery that isn’t average, Bloomsybox has got you! Just shop the arrangements and select your delivery date, flowers are shipped within 2-4 days of being cut and arranged to guarantee your blooms look great. Want to level up? You can sign up for a floral subscription service and get flowers every month! They also have a small-but-wonderful selection of potted plants and orchids. 

bloomsybox.com

ProFlowers

ProFlowers

This tried-and-true floral delivery service has some cool features you might not have noticed before: they have an array of affordable house plants, tons of flowers and gifts and even botanical gifts based on birthdate/astrological sign. 

proflowers.com

Botany Box

Botany Box

Botany Box is a curated succulent or cacti box with four easy-to-care-for plants that can be purchased online for direct delivery. The plants come pre-planted and arrive at your doorstep, ready to bring a burst of energy and color into your indoor spaces.

Choose from succulents or cacti. 

botanybox.co

Etsy

waspaper via Etsy

Do a quick search for "houseplants" on Etsy and an abundance of choices come up, especially in the realm of quirky, adorable terrariums and planters, like this cool unicorn planter from Plant and Color. You can find a ton of legit houseplants, like an array of the gorgeous Monstera deliciosa. 

1-800-Flowers

1-800-Flowers

For ease of use and fast service, 1-800-Flowers always ranks in the top, but their bouquets aren't always the most custom or unique. Their plant selection is top-notch, especially for affordability! You'll find houseplants like the popular Money Tree and the impossible-to-kill Snake Plant along with blooming bulbs, seasonal plants and more. 

1800flowers.com

Bonsai Boy

Bonsai Boy

While succulents might be having their moment, we know the bonsai are going to make a surge in the plant world with everyone at home. Bonsai Boy offers a slew of options in all price points from bonsai trees under $30 to beginner-friendly options like our favorite, the Hawaiian Umbrella Bonsai tree

bonsaiboy.com

UrbanStems

Beyond the usual dozen long-stemmed roses, UrbanStems has uber-cool arrangements (with succulents!), flower subscriptions and plants. Or go right to the goods and shop their Valentine's Day collection.

urbanstems.com

—Kate Loweth & Amber Guetebier

featured image: Botany Box

 

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If you tuned into the skateboarding competitions during the Olympic Games in Tokyo this summer, you might have recognized some local skaters who are now Olympic medalists. San Diego’s skateboarding culture was on full display throughout the games–leaving the entire community proud and little groms super excited. If you have one of those lil’ shredders at home and want to know where they can safely practice their craft, we rounded up the best skate parks to master that ollie, kick-flip and grind.

YMCA Skate Parks in San Diego

Two locations in San Diego County:

Magdalena Ecke Family YMCA Skate Park (Encinitas)
Great for beginners—the world-famous Magdalena Ecke Family YMCA Skate Park is one of the biggest and most diverse in San Diego County. Shaun White once told ESPN magazine that he'd been coming to this park every day since he was six. It's where he learned all his tricks, and it's still his inspiration. So if Shaun White approves, your little one should also be impressed. It includes a mixture of transitions and plaza elements. Beginners and anyone looking to increase their ability and learn new tricks should check out mini-land. Helmets, knee pads, and elbow pads are required for all participants 18 years and under. This park also offers private and group skate lessons.

200 Saxony Road
Encinitas, CA 92024
Online: www.ymcasd.org

YMCA Krause Family Skate & Bike Park (Mission Valley) 
Krause Family Skate and Bike Park is home to the first permanent track in the world and several professional athletes. The skatepark is a 60,000 sq. ft. facility that has a variety of ramps for all skill levels. The good news for pint-sized thrashers, they have a beginner course. They also have a brand new remodeled street course, BMX course, 4 ft. mini-ramp with a spine, Dew-Tour vert ramp, concrete pool, and Skatercross Skateboard Racing Track. This park is open and available for people of all ages and skills to enjoy. So pad up and get on over to the park!

3401 Clairemont Drive
San Diego, CA 92117
Online: www.ymcasd.org

 

CA Training Facility in Vista

CA Training Facility (CA|TF)

Skateboarding is woven into the culture of San Diego, with so many pros coming from North County, so it only makes sense that the first and only high-performance center developed explicitly for skateboarding opened in Vista.  The 28,000 square foot private facility, which includes full-size competition street and park courses, served as a training ground for US Olympic skateboard team members in preparation for the 2020 Summer Olympics in Tokyo. In addition, they offer a variety of programs for young skaters. From private coaching to open skate, there's something for everyone. So if you have someone interested in skating, you need to check out (CA|TF).

1410 Vantage Court,|
Vista California 92081 
Online: www.ca-tf.com/

Linda Vista Skate Park

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With the help of skaters, skateboard professionals and the community, The Linda Vista Skateboard Park opened in 2018. It is part of the Linda Vista Community Park and is currently the largest skate park in San Diego. The rad development boasts all the must-have elements, from rails, stairs, ramps, banks, ledges, jumps, and bench-like features to satisfy all skill levels. Besides the elements, there are several bowls, a full pipe, a street course, lights, and a bridge. The bridge is not only a focal point of the park. It also serves as a viewpoint to watch the skaters (a must for parents!). Other non-skating but family-friendly features include shade structures and sitting/observation areas. Children 12 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. 

Open 9 a.m. - 9 p.m. Monday-Sunday. 
Online: sandiego.gov/

Memorial Skate Park

Memorial Skate Park in San Diego features approximately 7,000 square feet with above-ground ramps and rails. Bleachers for parents to sit and watch their children skate and a small area for a post-skate-sesh picnic.

6610 Potomac St
San Diego, CA 92139
Online: https://www.sandiego.gov/

 

Alga Norte Skatepark

There's so much to love about this gem of a park in North County and the state-of-the-art skate park is at the top of the list. Kiddos will be stoked to work on their kickflips and catch some air on the half pipes. The park offers something for beginners to advanced boarders and if you're looking for an evening outing, it's one of the few skate parks in San Diego county that has lights. Roll don't walk, the whole family will love this place!

6565 Alicante Rd.
Carlsbad, Ca 92009
760-268-4777
Online: www.carlsbadca.gov/services/depts/parks/facilities/south/alga.asp

Poway Skate Park

This kid-friendly skate park allows boards, blades, scooters, skates and bikes. So, if it has wheels — you can ride it here in Poway! It's designed for beginner-level to advanced boarders. Just note that it's on the smaller side, so it can get crowded at peak times. Helmets, knee pads and elbow pads are required and an adult must accompany kids under 12.

13090 Civic Center Dr.
Poway, Ca 92064
858-668-4671
Online: poway.org/328/Skate-Park

 

Carmel Valley Skate Park

The Carmel Valley Skate Park opened in 2008 with the design help of pro skater Chris Miller. The main feature of the park is a challenge course in a concrete bowl. This park also offers restrooms, a shade structure and seating and observation areas so parents can watch their daredevil land his next trick. Full safety equipment is required at all times.

12600 El Camino Real
San Diego, Ca 92130
858-552-1616
Online: sandiego.gov/park-and-recreation/centers/skateparks/carmelvalley

 

Rancho Penasquitos Skate Park

©Beth Shea

After a full renovation in 2014, this skate park is now brimming with all the bells and whistles or should we say, grind boxes, bank ramps and multi-height quarter pipes? Whatever trick your pint-sized skater is hoping to perfect he can work on it at this 22,000-square-foot concrete skateboarding facility in Rancho Penasquitos.

10111 Carmel Mountain Rd.
San Diego, Ca 92129
858-538-8131
Online: sandiego.gov/park-and-recreation/centers/skateparks/rancho

––Aimee Della Bitta

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If you have a little one who is just starting out, what are the best ways to teach your kids to ride a bike without the tears or tantrums? We caught up with a few bike experts for insider tips to help get the family changing gears before you can say go! From how to prepare your kids to hit the pavement to what kind of bike is best for toddlers, we’ve got everything you need to know.

Psst…Earlier this week we published a story on the best kids bikes, tricycles and scooters for beginners. If you missed it, click here for the story or shop the bikes below. 

iStock

Do Your Homework
According to Shane MacRhodes, Transportation Options Coordinator for the city of Eugene, OR, before you hit the pavement, it's important to check out a family cycling guide. The San Francisco Bicycle Coalition and the Portland Bureau of Transportation have great tips and tricks tailored to different stages of riding bikes with kids—from pregnancy to kids riding on their own.

Go Tandem with Teeny Tots
Start out riding with the kids attached, whether in a trailer, bike seat or on a cargo bike. Not only will it get your blood pumping but the littles will get a first-hand experience at what it's like to be out biking around. Check out our top picks for the best cargo bikes for families here

Get Them Excited: Pick Out a Helmet
Let them be a part of the process by letting them pick out their own helmet. They can even adorn it with favorite stickers or decorations. The more they're invested in their own gear, the more they'll be willing to wear it when it counts. 

Test Out Riding Indoors
Does hitting the pavement sound intimidating? Help your kiddo adjust to the feel of a bike with its stationary counterpart. This can help them to not worry about falling and distract them from any fears they may have of riding!

 

 

Shane MacRhodes

Begin with a Balance Bike
Start kids out on a balance bike; unlike training wheels, it teaches them what really matters, balance! Worried about the transition? It’s actually easier to go from balance bike to pedal bike. Balance bikes are also lighter so when beginning riders decide they’ve had enough scooting for the day, the long haul back home (think: you carrying the bike) doesn’t seem so far.

Let Them See Other Kids Riding
We love that biking is a great social distancing activity. Our Editorial Director, whose toddler just learned how to ride a balance bike, took her son to watch other older kids ride their balance bikes. It wasn't until he saw the older kids push and glide that he truly understood how to do it himself (he was previously walking his bike, not understanding how to push off and glide). It was like a lightbulb went off and he then picked it up very quickly. 

Size It Right
Thinking of getting a bike that grows with your baby biker? Well, think again. If toes are even just this far off the ground, or the pedals aren’t quite so push-friendly and the handlebars are too much to handle—yup, not so fun—kids are less likely to want to ride as often. If you aren't sure what type of bike to get, check out our list of best kids' bikes for every age and stage. You can also go to your local bike shop to ask for their advice and get fitted. 

 

 

istock

Know the Route & Choose the Right Surface
Start on the multi-use paths, but don't be limited by them. Pinpoint the quiet neighborhood streets that connect riders to where they need to go because these are the roads less traveled (handy when starting with beginner bikers). Find out if your community has a bike map and route out a good ride. You can even try out Google Maps bike directions. Start short and simple and build up to longer, more complex rides.

And, be sure to pick a smooth, hard surface for when your kid is first learning how to ride a bike. Children's bike expert and industry veteran Isla Roundtree tells Cycling Weekly, "It’s tempting to choose grass as many feel it would aid a soft landing but that can make learning quite difficult because they will have to push quite hard on a small bike” she explained.

Our edit team thinks taking young tots to empty schoolyards is the perfect spot to learn how to ride. There may be other kids there riding their scooters or bikes, but since many schools aren't in session this year, the yards are fairly empty and provide a nice open space and smooth surface for beginner riders. 

 

 

TREK Bikes

The Price is (Also) Right
Picking a quality bike also makes a difference in how kids enjoy the ride. Pricier versions are built for bumps in the road (both real and emotional!) and all you bargain buyers and sellers—the better bike has a higher resale value, every time.

Bonus Tip: Speaking of resale, be sure to scour sites like Craigslist, Nextdoor and Facebook marketplace to score fab deals on kid bikes, trailers, seats and cargo bikes. Find a great bike, but it's the wrong color? Decorate! Feel free to go crazy with stickers, colorful tape, straws, pipe cleaners and plastic flowers to make the bike all their own—just make sure nothing can get caught in the wheels or chain.

Go Back to School
Try and find a family biking class in your area. If you can’t find one, look for an adult class like the League of American Bicyclists "Traffic Skills 101," it’s a crash course in the basics of confident, safe cycling techniques. Read: it will help you model better riding for your kids. Other routes including checking in with your local Safe Routes to School program for resources.

 

—Gabby Cullen and Erin Lem

Featured image: iStock

 

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Photo: Habbi Habbi

Like many families, we are an English-speaking household trying to incorporate a second language (for us, Spanish) into our lives. Our boys get the majority of their Spanish exposure through immersion school. But I know that building on that and reinforcing it at home is critical too. As a Spanish beginner myself, I cannot practice popular methods like OPOL (one parent one language), so, I came up with 5 actionable things I could do at home. They’re not fancy or complicated; they’re short and approachable enough, so I can do them consistently, which is the most important thing!    

1. Speak: Add choiceful vocabulary into our everyday routine.

Time: n/a [Just replacing some English vocabulary we use]  

Since I’m a beginner too, I try to learn some new vocabulary words that I can easily use with my kids on a daily basis (e.g. using agua, leche, pan during mealtime instead of water, milk, bread) The two books we ‘go to’ most for this are our In My Home & Foodie Friends books. For example, they are really into brushing their teeth right now (thanks to a new flavor of toothpaste) so we’re adding words like el cepillo de dientes, la pasta de dientes, el hilo dental  (toothbrush, toothpaste, floss) to our daily rotation. These are words that get repeated multiple times a day.   

2. Sing: Spanish songs everyday on our walk to school.

Time: 5 minutes daily [as a fun habit, practice each morning at a specific habitual time]  

Each morning, we have a short walk to drop my boys off at school. I picked a few easy Spanish songs that have a lot of repetition, and I plan to sing those with my boys as we walk. For example, ¡Colores, colores! is fun for practicing colors and names of different jobs; the song traditionally just talks about Dad’s jobs, but we use papá or mamá. Sometimes, we switch it up by using different family members like abuelo, abuela, tío and tía!  Another song that’s fun, easy to repeat, and has great vocabulary is 10 Pececitos (10 little fish).  

3. Environment: Set up their spaces to encourage using Spanish instead of English, with Spanish books and labels.

Time: 5-15 minutes [set up the environment to replace English options with Spanish], more environmental to encourage them to pick up independently   

We have a great reading nook, and my kids love curling up with them in a big comfy chair for story time. We intentionally place our Habbi Habbi collection nearby—both the Spanish-English and Chinese-English, with a Wand for each child. We try to keep them in places that are visible and accessible to the kids (e.g. a low shelf), and encourage them to choose them for story time and independent play. We also rotate titles or display more prominently titles that we want to “lightly suggest” they look at.   

We have also decorated our home environment with Spanish signs and labels. Most recently, we used the Habbi Habbi “In My Home” Printable Flashcard Set to color, cut, and tape them to everyday household objects. It’s a fun activity… and will remind all of us – not only the kids but me and my husband as well—to use the Spanish names for certain objects throughout the house.   

4. Community: Engage and learn from Habbi Habbi Reading Club.

Time: 5 minutes daily [Overlaps with our independent reading time—and keeps me accountable to hear from other parents!]  

Continuing on the Habbi Habbi theme…we are also participating in the Habbi Habbi Reading Club (virtual, on Facebook). The boys already love playing with the Wands & books “freest‌yle” —tapping, making up games, dancing to the music. But I also want to increase their community of Spanish speakers (and/or learners!). So, we participate in the Reading Club, which is an intimate environment for me. It encourages me and the boys to use our Spanish everyday at home (and not just at school). I also love seeing how other families use the Wand and books; it has given us some new ideas (e.g. keeping a Wand and book in the car for a little Spanish when we are on the go—even if it’s just a 5-10 minute ride!). It’s a fairly low time commitment, and we can sprinkle it in throughout the day—e.g. before bed, around mealtimes—which makes it fun and manageable.   

5. Play: Utilize Printables for further tangible play and learning.

Time: Ad-hoc and great time filler [at a restaurant, when looking for an activity, etc!]   

My kids are at an age where they LOVE to color and draw (the chant at breakfast this morning was “¡Más arte!”). Printables are a great way to practice Spanish, not to mention reading, writing, math and more. We love them at home or on the go. When we take the kids out to eat, I like to bring a variety of printables and crayons to keep them occupied while we wait for our food. Some of our (free!) favorites come from this set. In particular—we love this interactive math printable (we use raisins to complete the math problems, which my kids adore).  

We don’t always follow the directions on the page but that means we can use the same printable in lots of different ways. For example, this vehicle printable can be used for coloring, matching, “I spy”, or even a silly “Name that truck sound” game.  

—By Anne-Louise Nieto, Mom of 2 | Grew up in the US | Native English Speaker | Used to speak French | Non-Native Spanish speaker, learning Spanish with my kids in hopes of raising them bilingual!  

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H&AL of Habbi Habbi
Tinybeans Voices Contributor

Habbi Habbi Reading Wand & Bilingual Books is the easiest way to start kids on Chinese & Spanish. Just turn on and tap. Every inch is tappable, and our books are as intentional in content as they are beautiful - topics like kindness, emotions, and more. @BeHabbi | habbihabbi.com.