These coloring pages, color-by-number printables, mad libs, printable mazes, and activity pages for kids are all free
Our best remedy for long winter days? A healthy supply of printable activity pages for kids—because when it’s too chilly to go outside, exercising their brains is the next best thing. We’ve rounded up the coolest printables with a timely winter theme, from mad libs to paper snowflakes, free coloring pages, color-by-number printables, and more. Fire up the printer!
In what might be the cutest winter-themed activity page for kids we've seen, have your little ones 'apply' to be an elf at the North Pole. They'll have to answer questions like "Can you make a snowball?" and "Do you like candy canes?" and there's a spot for them to pick their preferred job in Santa's Village. Download it here.
This printable activity page for kids from Twisty Noodle is perfect for chilly days. Kids can flex their tracing skills, and then color in the hat however they like.
Create a silly story with these fun winter-themed Mad Libs. Get the printables (including ones about a snowstorm, ice skates, and winter facts) from Woo! Jr.
Thanks to Mr. Printables, it’s ridiculously easy to make your own paper dolls. Just print out the doll printables and winter-themed clothes, then roll them up and glue your creations together.
This activity from KCEdventures requires a bit of pre-planning, but it’s totally worth the effort. Print out the gingerbread people and hide them around the house, then let the kids hunt for them all!
Let your budding artist unleash their creativity on these snowflakes from First Palette. Available in different sizes and designs, they can color them, cut them out, and even use them to make a garland or another craft.
The kiddos can practice counting and work on their fine motor skills with this genius printable from Itsy Bitsy Fun. Plus, they’re always lured in by playdough!
This cute activity sheet for kids from The Resourceful Mama is sure to be a hit with your little ones. If you’ve got dot markers, they can fill them in with those, or you can use pom poms or regular markers.
Stuck inside during a snowstorm? This I Spy game from Simple Play Ideas will be a lifesaver. It’ll put your kids’ finding and counting skills to the test.
We love this winter printable from Life Over C’s that’s sure to keep the kids occupied for an afternoon. Once you’ve printed out the pieces, encourage your littles to create different patterns on their mats.
If your kiddo’s got a handle on reading, you’ve got to use this word search printable from Real Life at Home. Hunker down by the fire while looking for words like reindeer and blizzard.
Let the tots work on their fine motor skills with these cute lacing cards from Living Life and Learning. The set includes a snowflake, reindeer, and gingerbread man.
Keep it simple by printing out this fun coloring page from Trail of Colors. Kids will love decorating the mittens, hat, and scarf whether or not it’s snowing where you live.
Even if it doesn’t snow where you live, kids can still build a snowman thanks to this clever worksheet from Totschooling. Plus, they’ll get to practice matching shapes while they’re at it.
Print out this page from You Clever Monkey to help your kids build fine motor skills. Have them decorate the tree with playdough, buttons, or small beads. You can even make it into a counting or alphabet game.
To keep the kiddos occupied for an afternoon, print out and laminate this winter scene from Living Well Mom. Then they can get creative building and decorating snowballs and snowmen.
If you’re stuck inside on a cold day, this cool printable game from Gift of Curiosity will keep the boredom at bay. Print out the cards and place them on a cube (or just shuffle them in a stack)—each card directs kids to do a different action.
Kids can sharpen their scissor skills and learn about symmetry with these cool activity pages from Itsy Bitsy Fun. Once they’re done cutting out the shapes, they can decorate them with markers or crayons too.
Keep the cabin fever away on your next snow day by trying out this genius twist on bingo from All Free Kids Crafts. Kids can cross out a bingo square for each activity they do, from drinking hot cocoa to having a dance party.
If your littles like playing with hole punches, this activity from Early Learning Ideas will definitely be a winner. They can go to town punching the holes, and then they can decorate their snowflakes with crayons or glitter glue.
You don’t have to let winter break brain drain set in thanks to this awesome activity from The Measured Mom. Similar to a board game, it can be adapted to any word list.
Make your game plan for the rest of the season with this cool idea from 3Dinosaurs. There are versions available for kids to write their wishes down or to draw them out if they’re not writing yet.
Perfect for preschoolers and kindergarteners, these wintry mazes from BrainyMaze are super fun. Each page includes a maze and a counting and writing activity.
Here’s a fun activity from Education.com to help combat cabin fever—kids can color their own snowman, then cut out the pieces and glue them all together.
Feel like sprucing up your kitchen and mealtime? Behold these cool kitchen gadgets.
The kitchen is the center of any family home: from cooking to eating together, it’s a chance for busy families to reconnect with one another and fill their hungry tummies. We’re crushing on a few new and cool kitchen gadgets that are full of whimsy, fun and convenience. Afterall, if you have to have gadgets, they should definitely be cool, right?
These cool kitchen gadgets are not only exactly what will make your kids want to help cooking and eat (fun shapes always do the trick), but they’re also a lot of fun to use. Plus, they’re all things you actually need in the kitchen. Peelers, plates, and utensils are always going to be necessities. So, we’ve gone ahead and rounded up some of the most adorable goodies for all your future meals. Scroll below to find the new object of your foodie affection.
Cat Peeler
Amazon
Not only is this little peeler adorable, but it's also easy for little hands to hold. It should come in very handy for all those potatoes you need to peel for Thanksgiving mash. The little ears help to remove potato eyes, too. Also comes in white!
This dishwasher-safe silicone mat not only makes mealtime fun, but it's also perfect for those eaters who like their foods "separate" whenever possible. We also love this mat for holiday baking (you can use all the compartments for different cookie toppings) and even crafting supplies. Because it's easy to wash, there's no problem using it for a variety of things. It comes in an array of colors and sizes (some have more "mat" areas for crafting, etc.).
Dive deep into pots of soup and stews with this long-necked, footed ladle in the shape of the elusive Loch Ness Monster. She even comes in a jumbo size.
Make mealtime extra fun with this construction-themed plate and utensil set. Now all those noises you make to get the food down the hatch might sound so out of place!
Protect hands from burns and amuse your guests with these silly-sweet oven mitts that look exactly like bear paws, made with insulated cotton with heat-resistant silicone pads. They also come in polar bear hands if that's more your taste.
Get your knights to gather around the table with this adorable but functional cheese grater that looks like a dagger. Enough said, right? You will never buy the pre-shredded cheese again. We’re pretty sure you’ll have a few volunteers to pitch in with meal prep with this one.
With cookie baking season right around the corner, you and your kids will love whipping up a batch of sugar cookies (or really any solid dough designed for cutters) in the shape of emojis!
It’s a juicer, it’s a miniature watering can, and it’s a ton of fun! Perfect for your favorite salad dressing, just squeeze the lemon juice directly in, add whatever seasonings and oil you might want and then sprinkle directly onto your greens. This just might get them to eat those veggies!
Kids love playing in soapy water, so take advantage of that and get them to do a few dishes (non-breakables are fine). Even the most reluctant rinser will perk up when they see the Brain Drain, a clever little sponge holder that looks like a skull. And as a bonus, you can use it to hold a body scrubber in the bath, too.
Whether you’re introducing carrots to a wee one’s diet or making fancy popsicles for a playdate, this adorable popsicle maker will bring on squeals of delight. How can you go wrong?
Whether they're into banging on pots and pans or have graduated to helping in the kitchen, set your little chefs up for success with this seven-piece utensil set from Q.D. Foodie. The utensils feature sensory-friendly, easy-to-grip handles, have braille on the measuring pieces and mimic real fruits and veggies.
They look like giant pencil sharpeners, but they produce julienne-style results that can easily be formed into garnishes, thereby making your food look 10x fancier.
From birthday parties to everyday eats, these napkin holders make mealtime more like story time. Easy to use, you just grab any napkin (cloth, paper) and fold it in half, give Bloom a twist and bam! Your napkin just became petals. Whimsy with a side of good manners? Yes, please.
You want kiddo to learn to eat from a real plate but don't want said plate tossed on the floor. Your solution: OXO Tot's new stick and stay divided plate. The curved side walls encourage your babe to feed herself, and it suctions to any surface—it's easy for mom and dad to remove, not so easy for the baby.
Never miss out on the last little bits of jam or peanut butter thanks to the Splatypus jar scraper. This little spatula is just $17; you'll save that much in jam in a year alone.
—Amber Guetebier, Erin Lem, Gabby Cullen, Kate Cartia
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It’s time to ask yourself the dreaded question “What will I do with my kids this summer?” Luckily, with a little research, we’ve found tons of cool summer programs for kids that keep costs very low or even free (and some are online). From the Ranger Rick photo contest to Camp Creatology, these affordable summer programs for kids are some of the best ways to stay busy when they’re not in school.
Planet Fitness Teen Summer Program
Shutterstock
This summer program for kids is perfect for your older children who claim to be too old for camps or need a reason to get out of the house. Starting on May 15th, kids ages 14-19 can work out for free all summer long at Planet Fitness. Pre-register here, download the Planet Fitness app and get a digital pass. As a bonus, the company is giving away $10,000 in scholarships to 10 kids. All they have to do is submit a video via TikTok to enter. Get more info here.
The Planet Possible Family Challenge is a great way to make sure there's minimal summer brain drain. This series of projects and crafts from National Geographic hopes to inspire families to get outside, explore the habitats that surround us, and empower kids to understand why it's so important to protect them. Each challenge has three steps:
MAKE IT! A step-by-step DIY for a tool or craft that will help kids explore the microhabitat
TRY IT! Prompts or activities to encourage kids to explore and learn about biodiversity, using the Make It! craft
SAVE IT! Kid-friendly tips on protecting the microhabitat
Cost: National Geographic Premium With Disney+ is $10.99 a month. You get access to Disney+ in addition to a digital subscription to National Geographic.
If you need an incentive to get the kids to go screen-free every once in a while, check out the Barnes & Noble Summer Reading Program. Print out the Summer Reading Journal and have your kids write down which books they've read and why they liked them. Once they’ve read eight books, bring the completed journal to your local Barnes & Noble between July 1 and August 31 to get a free book.
Outschool offers dozens of classes and courses for ages ranging from toddler to tween. Do they want to learn another language? There's a class for that. How about beginning hip-hop or even wilderness skills? You can find that too. Check out our favorite classes for kids here.
Get your whole crew involved with Family Maker Camp—it’s a great way to flex your imagination and create something new. Join in on one of their live streams or pick something that sounds interesting out of their project library. Before you know it, you’ll have built a hovercraft or a musical instrument.
If you’re worried about getting your middle or high school kids up to speed in the new school year, Numerade has a fabulous (and free) solution. They’re offering free STEM summer camps covering SAT test prep, pre-calculus, physics, and more.
Research shows that kids connect when they're participating in an activity with you whether it's cooking, playing outside or being creative. The non-profit organization Marathon Kids, which works to ignite the joy of physical activity in kids, is launching a free summer program in hopes of making this easier for parents. Simply walk a mile and talk while doing it. Each day you'll receive a new prompt, there's a special mileage tracker, and by the end, you'll have walked the length of a marathon (26 miles) while getting to know your child better.
Microsoft normally offers free kids' camps at their stores during the summer, but they've moved online for now. Kids can sign up for free online workshops to tour the Smithsonian, plan a virtual road trip, put their Minecraft skills to the test, and more. Ages range from 6 to 14, and while the camps are free, advance registration is required.
Give your kids an exciting and engaging adventure this summer with one of Brain Chase's 2023 treasure hunt programs. How does it work? Kids choose between eight programs that include fun themes like The Pirate's Gold, The Lost World, The Globe of Magellan, and more. Once your kiddo has picked which one, they'll choose three electives out of 15 (depending on which package you select), including math, engineering, cooking, typing, and even yoga, to solve each weekly challenge. Once solved, an original webisode containing the next hidden clue will be unlocked. The first treasure hunter to solve the mystery will jet off to unearth the real buried treasure. The fun starts on Jun. 12. New this year is a series of weekly camps if you don't want to do the six-week treasure hunt.
Your avid reader can help underprivileged kids gain access to books by keeping track of their total minutes read this summer. Sign up on Scholastic's Home Base to get started. From May 4 - Sept. 7, 2023, as kids track their reading streaks, they’ll unlock fun videos, book excerpts, and other exclusive summer content. For every two days in a row kids track their reading streaks, Scholastic, with the help of other sponsors, will donate a book (totaling up to 100,000 books) to underserved kids across the country. You can register here, and check out the info for parents here.
If you’ve got a budding Ansel Adams at home, the Ranger Rick photo contest is a great way to keep her busy over the summer. First, head for the great outdoors (or your own backyard) and have her take nature photos. Then, select her favorite one and send it in with proper sizing (2 MB or smaller, JPG format, at least 600 pixels wide or 600 pixels tall). If your kid doesn’t have a digital camera, no worries! Phone images are also accepted. Recent winners (this is an ongoing contest) are entered into the running for Ranger Rick’s "Your Best Shots" Magazine Award and are selected three times a year. Each winner receives a certificate of achievement and copies of the magazine featuring the winning image!
It's never too early to instill the habit of giving to others. Have your little philanthropists sign up with Kids That Do Good this summer in order to spend time giving back to their local community. The online (kid-founded!) resource allows kids to get involved with a cause or charity of their choosing—or, if you’ve got real go-getters at home—create their own! Once you’ve created an account and found an organization, kids can track their service hours via social profiles and certificates.
Designed to help spark the imaginations of kiddos ages 8-12, this three-day workshop allows kids to explore and expand on their digital creativity. They’ll choose one of three tracks and spend 90 minutes of each day working on their project. Be sure to sign up here to get an email announcing open registration for the summer program for kids (it usually starts in June)—spots fill up quickly!
The Home Depot offers workshops that are perfect for mini-makers. Simply pre-register online, and then show up on the selected Saturday to build fun projects like a picket fence planter. At the end of the two-hour workshop, kids receive a certificate of achievement, a workshop apron, and a commemorative pin while supplies last.
Does your artist dream of paint, paper, glitter, and glue? If so, Michael’s Camp Creatolgy is the perfect way to beat the summer brain drain. Information for Summer 2023 will drop on May 15th, but camps usually run from mid-June to mid-July and are for ages 6 & up. If you don't want to sign up for the in-store classes, online programs are also available.
Cost: The classes are free, but the required materials cost $40 for the entire summer.
Budding bowlers can perfect their technique all summer long thanks to Kids Bowl Free, which allows them to play up to two games a day free of charge. All that's missing is a pair of those sweet bowling shoes. To find a participating bowling alley near you, click here.
Sometimes a dark and cool movie theater is the only way to beat the heat. Your kids can sign up for a punch card or show up at participating Megaplex, Cinemark, and Regal theaters to catch a fun, kid-friendly flick for just $1-$2. Even better, most movies show before noon, making it easy to catch a flick and head home for nap time.
Xanadu your heart out and head for the local roller rink this summer. Whether your kids like to skate or rollerblade, a few laps will get their blood pumping, and the cool, A/C-induced temps are a total bonus. The Kids Skate Free program allows families to take advantage of this offer once a week (during the summer months). Click here to find out if it’s happening at your local rink.
If you’ve got a National Park nearby, be sure to sign up your mini explorers for the NPS Junior Ranger Program. Each kiddo will be outfitted with a handy Junior Ranger guidebook that's filled with historical facts and cool tips about all the National Parks. Every adventurer also gets the chance to complete a series of activities, share answers with a park ranger, and receive an official Junior Ranger patch and certificate. Click here to learn more.
Insider Tip: Kids can earn badges at home by downloading activity books and information packets. Click here for more info.
If you are a Bank of America or a Merrill Lynch cardholder, you can snag free admission at more than 150 museums, science centers, and botanical gardens across the country on two days every month just by showing your card. Find out if your favorite museum is participating, and on what days, by clicking here.
From the popular hands-on outdoor learning program for kids comes a nine-lesson summer course you can do at home. Filled with all sorts of fun like a printable "trail map," reading summer list, songs and rituals for camp, plus articles and resources for parents, each week focuses on a different core Tinkergarten skill: persistence, empathy, creativity, focus, and more.
Keep the summer boredom away with this fun digital learning platform. Kids ages three to seven can learn STEAM concepts while watching videos and participating in interactive online activities. You can try it out with a seven-day free trial; after that, it’s $7.99 a month.
From the creative minds behind Angry Birds, Star Wars: The Clone Wars and Ice Age comes a free, interactive camp-style YouTube summer experience for kids. Every day is new, and activities include making food, doing science experiments, singing songs, and more. Counselors will be on hand to lead extra content and be on the lookout for special guest stars including Sparkles and Beaver and Scribbles the Cat.
Summer is here and we’re betting there are plenty of sweaty afternoons ahead for you and your crew. When the weather keeps you indoors, there’s nothing like one of the best kids activity books out there. From simple sticker books to literary coloring books for tweens, these fun-filled pages will make open afternoons go by in a flash.
How to Survive Middle School: Math: A Do-It-Yourself Study Guide
Beware, these books make you smarter! While the jump to middle school can sound intimidating, these DIY study guides make the leap into higher math, science and world history actually fun. Filled with colorful illustrations and fun facts, they make the perfect companion for a long road trip or inevitable "I'm bored" this summer. Ages: 10-14
This one has a little bit of everything, and it's ideal for your preschool kiddo. Pick between tracing, coloring, word searches, mazes, dot-to-dot and much more.
These large activity books from Highlights are full of colorful images, fun games and learning opportunities. Perfect for when you are on the go, choose from numbers, letters, tracing or puzzles books.
There's a growing need for social and emotional toys and gear for kids, and this journal from Hand2Mind fits the bill. With over 68 pages of activities that revolve around feelings, mindfulness and emotions, once the book has been completed, kids can look at it again when they need to identify their feelings.
This journal gives older kids and teens a place to learn and grow through drawing, activities, creating scenarios, and more. With over 50 different activities, this activity book is essential for extending the anti-racist journey.
As part of the "Goodnight Stories from Rebel Girls" series, this sticker-by-number book has 12 pages of heavy stock paper depicting female heroes from the original book.
Possibly the coolest hidden pictures book ever, Highlight's 16-foot long fold-out puzzle is fun for the entire fam. Made on sturdy paper and featuring 280 hidden objects, this unique activity can be used on the go, completed in sections, or spread out all at once!
Playing with Paints - Watercolor: 100 Prompts, Projects and Playful Activities
The perfect cure for rainy day boredom, this book is packed with projects that teach the principles of science, technology, engineering, art and math with on-hand ingredients like shaving cream and cookies. Have fun learning early ideas in chemistry, physics, computing, color-mixing and so much more.
No sticky residue after peeling these stickers off your windows! These reusable and collectible stickers can go just about anywhere, including the scenes that come in this fun book of 400 pirate-themed images. Great for car rides, doctors' offices and shopping carts—there's nowhere these stickers can't go.
The Invisible String Workbook: Creative Activities to Comfort, Calm, and Connect
From the author of the picture book phenomenon The Invisible String, this companion workbook includes over 50 creative art therapy and writing activities to help kids recover from trauma and build healthy relationships with themselves and others.
So. Many. Stickers.: 2,500 Little Stickers for Your Big Life
There's no shortage of stickers in this 50-page book! Whether your kiddos love decorating their notes, binders or snail mail, this 2,500 collection of whimsical stickies will keep them busy and creative for at least a few hours. Parents, there's no harm in sneaking a few for yourself to dress up that planner!
Highlights' Jumbo Pad of Word Puzzles is the perfect travel companion. The 256-page book contains over 125-word searches, crosswords, riddles, codes, and logic puzzles, with tear-out sheets and comes with a sturdy cardboard backing that's great for using on your kiddo's lap.
This colorful activity book is all about combatting brain drain with over 100 original activities including codes to crack, word puzzles, rhyming games, picture puzzles, memory challenges, mazes and more. The ultimate rainy day or airplane book, we think boys will love it too.
Strong Is The New Pretty: A Guided Journal for Girls
This journal from the author of Strong Is the New Pretty is filled with meaningful quotes, over 20 of the most stunning images from the book (plus 20 new images!) and inspiring prompts that’ll allow your daughter to tap into her own “girl power.” Plus, it’ll encourage your kiddo to spend more time with her thoughts and dreams than those she sees on social media.
Designed to help girls discover their confidence and spirit of adventure, this outdoor sports sticker book features strong and confident female role models that do everything from climbing mountains to white water rafting. The adorable stickers will capture your little trailblazer’s imagination, while the empowering messages will help them believe she can do anything.
— Gabby Cullen & Karly Wood
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If you’ve got summer on the brain, we’re right there with you. When it comes to water play, planning your (many) trips to Wild Waves Theme & Water Park in 2022 tops the list (psst..we’ve got what you need to know about the park’s opening day too). It’s got all you need to execute an easy day with the kids (think: food, rides, water, even movies) any day you go. Dive into the details on the area’s primo amusement and water park so you can really make a splash this summer.
First things first, Wild Waves will has plans to open for the 2022 season on May 28, over Memorial Day weekend.
The least busy times at Wild Waves are school days, chilly days and wet and windy days. You would think going to the park on a rainy day would be a bummer, but our kid reviewers say the rides are just as fun and with less people, the lines are a lot shorter too. We’ve also had good luck visiting on July 4, since many families are busy at picnics and parades.
The busiest times are, as you may have guessed, long holiday weekends and summer days when school’s out. But even when the park is packed, you can still have a great time—just be sure to pack your patience. On those days, it’s best to arrive right after the park opens to give your family a jump start before the big crowds arrive.
Wild Waves hours vary from day to day. Be sure to check their current schedule online.
We suggest bringing a change of clothes for each member of your family. Of course, you’ll need a swimsuit for Wild Waves. Shoes are not allowed on water attractions, but they are required for the theme park rides. Easy slip on waterproof sandals work well—flip-flops are fine, but you’ll have to take them off on some rides like the Hang Glider and the Soaring Eagle or they may fly off! The park suggests that you wear dry shirts and pants (or shorts) on all attractions and we couldn’t agree more! It’s not fair to make other guests sit in a puddle that you left from your soggy swim gear. You’ll probably be a lot more comfortable too.
We suggest you bring goggles, swimsuit cover-ups, swim diapers for your little ones, beach towels, sun screen, sun hats or baseball caps and a personal floating device if your kiddo needs it. (It must be US Coast Guard approved or you can borrow one for free near the locker rentals—first come, first served.) You might also want to bring a few plastic bags to put your soggy swim gear in, a few empty water bottles (you can fill them up with water at the drinking fountains) and don’t underestimate the importance of flip flops or shoes. Those concrete pathways get hot during the summer! A stroller can be nice to have as well. If you don’t want to pack them, single stroller rentals are available for $8, double strollers for $11, wheelchairs for $12 and motorized scooters for $30.
Hint: If you forget anything, you can buy swimsuits, beach towels, sunglasses, flip-flops and sunblock at the park, but it’s going to be a bit pricey!
There’s plenty of fun-filled activities for everyone in your crew at Wild Waves’ water park. From the exhilaration of hurtling down a twisting water slide or catching the big one in the Wave Pool, to cruising down the Lazy River or relaxing in a warming tub.
Young pirates can raid Hooks Lagoon (minimum height is 36″; maximum is 54”), paddle in the shallows, squirt mom with a water cannon and play in the waterfalls. Climb up the stories of a tropical tree house and zip down no less than seven slides (minimum height for the slides is 42″). But look out below! Every ten minutes the Cap’n’s bucket dumps 200 gallons of water onto little scallywags!
Mountain Dew Triple Slide Complex
Helen Green
There are lots of slides to discover at the park. Some of the best are found at the Mountain Dew Triple Slide Complex—three outrageously fun twisters that will send you racing towards splashdown at high velocity (a slight exaggeration!). Try all three, vote on which one you think is the best and go back for a final run before moving on.
For an adventure the whole family will enjoy at the same time, try the larger-than-life Zooma Falls. This giant slide allows up to four riders to experience large curves and turns before cruising under a waterfall. Other slides include the four serpentine Konga Slides, each one guaranteed to twist, wind and send you flying out of the tube!
Ever wondered what it feels like to be flushed down a toilet? If so, the Riptide’s for you. After a steep drop, you’ll swirl around and around the bowl before being sucked down the drain. Other wet fun can be found on the Raging River Ride (which you can go solo or ride with a friend) and the Activity Pool (for strong swimmers only).
After a hair-raising go on the slides, take a relaxing trip down the Konga Lazy River as it winds its way under the slides. It’s a pretty tranquil ride except for a few sprinklers popping up here and there. And you can go round and round as many times as you like (but we suggest shorter trips during the peaks times in the park.) Both our big and little kid reviewers give it two thumbs up!
Tubes are available for free at every slide, but if you want to skip the line you can choose to rent your own personal tube for $10 per single or $13 per double plus a $2 refundable deposit. We’d only recommend purchasing a tube if it’s a super busy day, as we’ve never had to wait long to get one.
Details for the 2022 line-up have been finalized for the season, and let's just say Thursday nights are even more fun at the Wave Pool as Wild Waves presents its “Dive In” movie theater. The best part of this outdoor movie experience is that the new-last-year LED screen means families don't have to wait for the sun to set to enjoy the movie. Movies start at 5:30 p.m., and the first showing, Finding Nemo, is scheduled for June 23. Dive-In Movies are free for both Season Pass ticket holders and those with a daily park admission ticket. Stay after the park closes, grab a tube, and hop in the Wave Pool to kick back with a new release or fan favorite flick!
Other "waves” can be found across the way in the theme park area in the form of roller coasters. Atop the hill, sits the Timberhawk Ride of Prey—the largest wooden roller coaster in Washington and this park’s crown jewel. The cars take a leisurely climb to the top with amazing views of the park, then whoosh you’re off, plummeting down drops, hurtling through twists and turns dare you not to duck as you go through the mine shaft.
The Wild Thing with its loop-de-loop and two corkscrews is guaranteed to raise your heart rate. And as if one trip around isn’t enough…The Wild Thing goes around twice. (Psst…when you go upside down, keep your eyes open and look straight ahead, so you don’t get dizzy.)
Over at the Klondike Gold Rusher, there are no precious metals to be found, but it’s a fun ride just the same. We have a warning though. This “mad mouse” type ride is quite jarring and quite a bit scarier than it looks, but it’s a thrill if your kids are up for it. There are sudden drops, sharp turns and your cart will seem like it’s about ready to fly off the tracks. Don’t worry though, it won’t.
A big kid fave in the park is Lumberjack Falls—a log flume ride that’ll send you plunging 50 feet into the water. “It feels like a tsunami is washing over you,” said one of our big kid reviewers. You will get wet…but so will the people standing on the bridge, if they’re not careful.
The Brain Drain is perhaps the scariest ride in the park. After getting strapped in you’ll be raised to the top of the 85-foot tall tower that drops with forces equivalent to 3 G’s! Only big kids need apply as the minimum height is 52”.
If that doesn’t scare you, maybe The Ring of Fire will. Our grownup reviewers voted it the scariest ride in the park and it receives stellar reviews from kids. It’s a 360-degree looping coaster that propels you back and forth up the sides of the track until it picks up momentum and spins you right around. Then, halfway through the ride you will reverse and go in the other direction! What’s not to love about that?
The Timber Axe is another gravity-defying stomach churner that’ll swing you back and forth before flipping you upside down.
Hoist the Jolly Roger and board the Pirate Ship if ye dare—this galleon rocks back and forth until it’s almost vertical. According to one kid reviewer, “Each time you go up it feels like you’re touching the sky, but if you’re at the back of the ship it feels like you’re going to land on your face.”
The Disk’O Flashback won’t remind you of John Travolta or the Bee Gees, but it may make you dizzy as it spins on its half-pipe track.
The park offers two extra thrills if you are up for it or are ready to shell out a few bucks more to experience them. (Those with an Annual Pass receive special discounts on these.) The Soaring Eagle zooms you high above the ground for terrific views of the park, before zipping back down again. For the real adrenaline addicts in your fam, the attention-getting I-5 Dive Skycoaster is an exhilarating, high bungee drop that will give you a good view of the park if you dare to open your eyes.
For a more leisurely pace there’s The Hang Glider, where you can take a gentle spin in the air and cool off on a hot summer day. This one is surprisingly fun for both kids and their parents. Kids yearning to go on the Pirate Ship but won’t go because it’s “too scary” may enjoy the similar, kid-friendly Coastal Clipper which but quite a bit tamer. There’s also the mild thrills aboard the giant spinning roulette wheel known as The Gambler, the high-flying Paratrooper and the oldie-but-goodie Scrambler which are all great for breaking younger kids in for the scarier rides. And for some good old fashioned fun, hop aboard the Dodge ‘ems Bumper Cars.
Little pilots will enjoy buzzing grownups in Red Baron biplanes, while budding train drivers clatter down the tracks of the Enchanted Railway. For kids who like to bounce (and who doesn’t?) there are two star attractions: the Frog Hopper and Kang-A-Bounce. After you bounce, take your tiny thrill-seeker for a go on the Kiddie Coaster.
For the littlest members of your family, the Kiddie Combo and Ferris Wheel are a must. On the Kiddie Combo, kids can pick their mode of transportation—a fire engine, moon buggy, antique car, dune buggy or sports car. The mini Ferris Wheel offers a gentle spin and cool views from a not-too-high vantage point. There’s also Safari Jeep (watch out for giraffes and lions!), the Kiddie Boats, The Space Racer, The Wagon Train and the beautiful antique carousel.
Check the website to see how tall (or how small) you need to be to go on each ride. If you have a kiddo between 48″- 54″ tall they can go on everything —these lucky guys and gals are tall enough for the big rides, but not too tall to still enjoy the little kid rides!
What to Eat
Helen Walker Green
Outside food isn’t allowed inside Wild Waves, but we’ve found that packing a few granola bars in your bag to keep everyone going is fine with staff at the entrance gate. You can bring your own non-glass water bottle (or buy an official Wild Waves cup) and refill it with ice water for free from any concession stand.
There’s lots of food choices available in the park including burgers, fries, clam chowder, tacos, ice cream, caramel apples and homemade fudge. The Dipping Dots are very popular and don’t leave the park without trying the Ultimate Elephant Ear (it’s so big, a family of four could share one). Topped with cinnamon, sugar, raspberry jam, whipped cream and a big scoop of vanilla ice cream, it’s pure decadence! Find them at the Snack Shop near the main gate, along with cotton candy and other treats.
Like many theme parks, the food here is expensive and not very nutritious. You may want to pack a cooler and leave it in your car. When everyone’s hungry, just head to the car for a quick bite to eat. It’s also a great break away from the crowds. Just be sure to get your hand stamped when you exit so you can come back in.
Regardless of the type of tickets you want, ordering them online is the way to go. You’ll save anywhere from $5-$21 per ticket this way. You can print the tickets at home or save them to your phone. Plus, purchasing your tickets online will significantly shorten your waiting time getting into the park.
If you are a military family, the park offers discounts on single-day admission tickets. In order to purchase a discounted military admission ticket, show a valid, active military ID at any of the front gate ticket booths. And kids three and under are always free.
Wild Waves Season Pass & Parking Info
Wild Waves
If you plan on going to Wild Waves more than twice this summer, consider purchasing a season pass which is currently on sale for $70, but jumps up to $100 for both adults and kids after May 28, 2022. You can save some more if you purchase your seasons pass at a participating Safeway or Albertsons store. Season pass members also receive a bunch of extras too, including three free friend tickets (see specific day limitations), free Dive-In Movies, free Fright Fest admission in October 2022, free parking, a free souvenir bottle, exclusive in-park discounts and more.
Parking is fairly steep ranging from $15 a day (regular) to $25 (VIP Parking). However, you can save $2 when you purchase online in advance and season parking passes ($50) are available, too.
Single Day Ticket (Valid any operating day in 2022.) Adult: $50 (online) or $55 (at the gate) Child (48” or shorter) and Senior (age 65+): $32 (online or at the gate)
Regular Season Pass :(for Adults and Kids online): $70, before May 28, 2022; $100, after May 28, 2022. Gold Season Pass: (for Adults and Kids online): $90, before May 28, 2022; $135, after May 28, 2022. Platinum Season Pass: (for Adults and Kids online): $140, before May 28, 2022; $200, after May 28, 2022.
Season Pass Dining Plan (for Adults and Kids): $70 Season Pass Parking: $50 Season Pass Locker Add-On: $49.99
Note: Kids ages 3 & under get in free. All ticket prices are plus 10% state tax, and a 5% city of Federal Way admissions tax.
There are two EMT-staffed First Aid stations at the park near the Kong Slides and also near the Timber Axe ride.
It’s a good idea to designate one spot where you will all meet in case you get split up. Also, tell your kiddos to check-in with a staff member if they get lost.
Renting a locker and keeping your valuables in there while playing in the water is the best way to keep cell phones, wallets and other items safe and secure. Lockers can be rented near the water slides and are available for $10 (standard), $20 (large) and $25 (jumbo).
If you plan on carrying your valuables with you while riding the attractions, you’ll be happy to know that every ride has cubbies for purses and cell phones. Just drop them off as you get on and pick them up when you get off.
Note: Cash and debit/credit cards are accepted everywhere (Visa, MasterCard, Discover, Amex), but you must have ID with you. There are four ATM machines available: outside of the front gates, the Shoe Hut, Arcade and Candy Factory. Checks are not accepted. Season pass holders can add “stored value” to their membership EZ Band that can be used anywhere inside the park.
Wild Waves Theme & Water Park
36201 Enchanted Pkwy. S.
Federal Way, WA 98003
253-661-8000
Online: wildwaves.com
Volunteering is not only a great way to spend family time, but it can help foster your child’s social skills, grow their sense of empathy and expose them to new interests. From creating custom cards for the troops to cleaning dirt and debris from the National Mall, we’ve rounded up volunteer opportunities suitable for a range of ages—from tots to teens. If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves, scroll down for the best family-friendly volunteer opportunities in the DMV.
Arlington County: Be Earth Friendly Every Day Arlington County's website boasts a long list of recommended family activities and events, like how to create your own rain garden or rain barrel, recycling tips, leads on local freecycling groups, and scheduled invasive plant removal projects at area parks. Arlington is also home to a ton of nature centers and gardens, where you can register for a nature event or stock up on foliage at a spring native plant sale.
The Alice Ferguson Foundation The Alice Ferguson Foundation has a long legacy of grassroots, community action. Our goal is to create meaningful experiences that connect our volunteers and visitors to the natural world. Family friendly opportunities include everything from Children's Garden maintenance and trail cleanups to Potomac River trash pickup and beautifying.
Anacostia River With multiple points throughout the district, Montgomery County, and Prince George’s County, there is likely an Anacostia clean-up site near you. The Anacostia Watershed Societywelcomes all, families and kids included to volunteer. They provide the tools and supplies, you provide the manpower to make the river sparkle.
National Mall and Memorial Parks Plan a unique family gathering or organize your local troop for a day on the Mall. Groups of 15 can spend an afternoon pruning trees, painting benches and keeping this National Park looking visitor-ready.
Casey Trees Help add green to the urban landscape with this non profit organization dedicated to increasing the leafy canopy in DC. Check the website for on-going opportunities to help with community plantings. Or register your child's school for a hands-on academic experience.
Children’s National Medical Center Most of the hands-on volunteering is for people ages 18 & up, with the exception of a 15 & up Ambassador Program, but the hospital needs more than bedside manners. Keep Dr. Bear’s Closet well stocked with superhero figures, Legos, books, crayons, stuffed animals, iPads – you get the idea – through donation drives.
When: Mon.-Fri. 10 a.m.-12 p.m. and 3-6 p.m.; Sat.-Sun. 11 a.m.-3 p.m. Where: 111 Michigan Ave. NW, Suite 1180 Online:childrensnational.org
DC Diaper Bank Helping babies is the number one mission of the DC Diaper Bank. Diapers, newborn necessities, nursing supplies, hygiene products and more are all collected to empower and change lives of babies living at or below the poverty line. Kiddos can get involved by helping to collect supplies, packaging diapers, and distributing to those in need. Even the littlest of helpers can join in – there’s a playroom for the young and eager to practice their skills while you and junior box up pampers.
Art for Humanity This Arlington-based charity has been helping poor children in Honduras through the Honduras Independence Bilingual School since 2006 and has three main ways to involve kids. One is by collecting vitamins and health supplies such as ibuprofen and cough drops for adults and children. Another is to sponsor a child’s education. The website lists kids in need and how much money per month they need. Sponsors get reports of their progress and a video of the children.
Shelter House This nonprofit serves two shelters for families and one for victims of domestic violence in Fairfax County, VA. Arrange a drive or just gather items to donate as a family. Needs are greatest for toiletries, pillows, pots and pans, gift cards, diapers and wipes, baby bottles, cutlery, and sheet sets.
Cards for Hospitalized Kids OK, so this isn’t locally based, but seriously, it’s so easy, we couldn’t exclude it. Get out the art supplies and make uplifting cards – generally themed or holiday-specific – to be delivered to children in hospitals. Cards go out monthly. Send your creation(s) to 7290 W. Devon Ave., Chicago, IL 60631.
Color A Smile With kids, you’re probably coloring pretty often anyway, right? Print a page from the choices on the Color a Smile website, use crayons or markers, and mail the picture to PO Box 1516, Morristown, NJ 07962-1516. Every month the organization distributes the drawings to senior citizens, troops overseas and “anyone in need of a smile.” In the past 25 years, it has sent more than 1 million drawings.
We Are Family Missing Grandma and Grandpa? Volunteer with We Are Family! They reach out to isolated senior citizens to help with groceries, cleaning, transportation, and/or just a friendly visit. Little ones can bring huge smiles to faces who might not get to interact with pint-sized future presidents, doctors, social workers and teachers. Kids who visit with the elderly benefit from the stories, interactivity and getting a dose of Grammie and Pop-Pop —even if it’s just for a little while. Be still our beating hearts.
Hebrew Home of Greater Washington Visit an elderly person (or two or 10) who might not have family nearby. Chat, play games or take them outside for fresh air. If you play an instrument, sing, dance or love theater, contact the recreation team about performing. Kids ages 10 to 17 need parental permission to volunteer here.
Montgomery County Humane Society To volunteer at a shelter, you must be at least 16, but younger people can help in other ways. For instance, host a drive for new or gently used pet supplies, or make a “no sew” pet bed, cat toys and other do-it-your-self toys. Find specific instructions online.
Where:601 South Stone St., Rockville, MD Online: mchumane.org
Lucky Dog Animal Rescue Got a pint-sized animal lover who wants to collect a whole zoo? The Lucky Dog's Youth Program is the perfect way for your personal Jeff Corwin to get involved without having to get another puppy or kitty. Lucky doggers can host fundraising events, make dog toys, bake treats, draw pictures (yes, really!) and even invite Lucky Dog Rescuers to school to learn more about the animals they help (for kids 7 & up). Woof!
Animal Welfare League of Montgomery County Even pets need a hand up sometime – which is exactly where Chomper’s Food Bank comes into play. Little one who are always trying to fill up the grocery cart with all those delicious treats, can now fill up their basket to help Fido instead of driving Mama crazy. Dried and wet food, kitten, puppy or senior food, it’s all needed at Chomper’s so that dogs and cats of Montgomery County can stay in their homes even if their owners are a little down on their luck. Helping animals and people? We call that a win-win.
Lost Dog & Cat Rescue Fans of Lost Dog Café know that their mission is to help animals in need. So, help kiddos put their money where their mouths are, and fundraise for animals who need it most. Middle schoolers, high schoolers and even elementary aged animal lovers can collect coins, bills and checks to donate to homeless dogs and cats. To date, they’ve helped more than 22,000 furry critters – all with a little help from their friends.
Animal Welfare League of Alexandria Help a furry friend without worrying about allergy attacks or friendly nips through the Youth Program’s at-home activities. These include chopping hot dogs, making Kittywands, catnip socks, Pupcicles of broth and meat, tugbraids and hiding houses (instructions for all are here).
Animal Welfare League of Arlington’s Paws and Read Who doesn’t love a good story? Children in kindergarten through fifth grade, accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, can practice reading and give cats some love by reading books to them. Take that, holiday brain drain (that’s a thing, right?).
When: Mon., Wed.-Fri. 1-5:20 p.m. Where: 2650 S. Arlington Mill Dr., Arlington, VA Online: awla.org
Humane Rescue Alliance Kids been nagging you for a pet? Give one a trial run – and a good home – as a foster family. The alliance takes in an average of 30 animals a day, and it needs help providing shelter for them, particularly those that might need specialized care, such as orphaned kittens and puppies.
Wreaths Across America Cemeteries may not be the first things that come to mind when volunteering as a family, but Wreaths Across America aims to place a festive, holiday wreath on the grave of soldiers to “Remember, Honor and Teach.” Families can lay wreaths at Arlington National Cemetery, as well as multiple locations throughout the DMV.
Socks for Vets For those with younger kiddos who want a taste of volunteering, but might not be able to pack food or read to puppies, Socks for Vets is the perfect fit. Each month, the founder, Cavan McIntyre-Brewer decides different ways to honor the nation’s veterans. Your family can get involved by donating socks, making cards, shopping for goat supplies (seriously they have packgoats!), and other myriad ways to show support for the bravest of the brave. Socks for Vets regularly visits the DC area where they hand out cards to Vets at the memorials, volunteer at military hospitals or participate in parades where they showcase their mission (DC is a bit much for the furry critters, though, so don’t expect to see goats roaming around Pennsylvania Ave.) and how they help wounded warriors.
Any Soldier Gather together to create care packages for members of the military who are stationed overseas. Recommended items include playing cards, jerky, Nutella, sunflower seeds, socks and Beanie Babies. The website offers a complete list including brand names or select a service member’s name to see their wish lists.
Holidays for Heroes Send three blank holiday cards, three blank envelopes with postage stamps and a personalized message from your family to a service member for the American Red Cross to provide to injured, ill or hospitalized service members and veterans. Each recipient will be able to send the cards to their loved ones. Mail them to the American Red Cross in the National Capital Region at 8550 Arlington Blvd., Fairfax, VA 22031.
Manna Food Center This charity in Gaithersburg has volunteer opportunities for kids ages 7 & up who want to help feed the hungry in Montgomery County. One activity is Family Box Packing. The center recommends that children be at least 10, but kiddos as young as 7 are welcome. At these events, held five time a month, participants spend about 90 minutes packing about 192 boxes of nonperishable food items. Check the website for additional opportunities, such as food drives.
Meals on Wheels As part of the Moms for Meals program, kids can accompany parents on weekday delivery runs during summer and winter breaks. Meals on Wheels provides food to homebound seniors and people with disabilities. If you can spare the time, chat with the recipient for a few minutes to make their day just that might brighter.
Food for Others Make a family outing to this food distribution center, which serves those in need in Fairfax and the greater NOVA area. Children must be at least 12 and those under 16 must be accompanied by an adult. Tasks include packing food boxed, Power Packs and USDA bags, unloading trucks, and sorting and stocking donated food.
ALIVE! Food Distribution Bagging groceries and distributing them is a great way for young and older munchkins to help others. ALIVE! has set weekends were volunteers can setup, unload, bag, distribute and register clients to receive food donated through the ALIVE! food bank. If your volunteer is older (teenager) he or she can help with furniture delivery, special events and maybe even at the ALIVE! house in old town. Whatever your family desires, there’s something to spark passion at every level.
Arlington Food Assistance Center Different kids means different interests – which is perfect for the Arlington Food Assistance Center. Children as young as 5 can help out at Family Bagging Nights (put food in grocery bags), while teenagers can post leaflets and posters promoting food drives. Middle and high schoolers can host Dimes for Dining where they give their neighbors a jar to fill with change and collect them at the end of the month.
The Bowie Interfaith Pantry and Emergency Aid Fund Plunk the kids in the nearest car-shaped shopping cart and help restock the fund’s pantry through its Shop-a-Shelf Program, which reimburses folks for canned goods, fresh produce, personal care items, and other donations. Or go a step further and Adopt-a-Shelf, then keep it full year round.
Capital Area Food Bank This is the largest organization in the metro area working to feed the hungry. It has partnered with 444 community organizations to provide food to those who need it and also delivers food directly, helping 540,000 people – 12 percent of the region’s population – a year eat. Do your part by gathering your family to sort and pack the food for delivery.
Food and Friends Volunteers founded this organization in 1988 and volunteers are still needed. Go through a volunteer orientation and then sign up to deliver meals and groceries to six to 10 families or prep and pack food (ages 14 & up for the latter). Note: Thanksgiving is an especially busy time for the org so sign up soon.
So Others Might Eat This interfaith organization provides food, showers, clothing, medical care and housing for those in need. Volunteers in the dining room must be at least 13 years old and accompanied by an adult, and at least 16 to do it independently. Opportunities outside food service include creating holiday decorations and baking treats to be served with meals.
Spend Yourself Food Pantry This Falls Church-based group seeks volunteers on Saturdays between 8:30 am and 12:15 pm to provide food to clients, pack and shelve food, and interact with clients. Donations of non-perishable food items are always welcome, too.
Martha’s Table This group has worked for 35 years to support children, families and the community at large in the DC area. Become one of the 16,000 volunteer who help with food, clothing and special events every year. Must be at least 12 to help with food and clothing.
Lorton Community Action Center More than 100 youth volunteer here every year in a variety of ways. Students 13 and older may help prepare food bags and assist with donations in the pantry, children of any age may organize a food drive, kids 15 and younger with an adult on hand may help in the Lorton’s Attic thrift store, and kids can raise money to donate to the center in lieu of (or in addition to) holiday or birthday gifts using a personal fundraising webpage.
Where: 9518 Richmond Highway, Lorton, VA Online: lortonaction.org
Helping the Homeless
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Carpenter’s Shelter Serving more than 600 homeless and formerly homeless children and adults each year, this shelter serves people in need in the city of Alexandria. They’re looking for in-kind donations of food, toiletries and miscellaneous items such as air mattresses, dish and bath towels, and SmarTrip cards. The shelter also keeps an Amazon Wish List in case you want to have the kiddos pick items there that can be shipped directly to the shelter.
Lorton Community Action Center More than 100 youth volunteer here every year in a variety of ways. Students 13 and older may help prepare food bags and assist with donations in the pantry, children of any age may organize a food drive, kids 15 and younger with an adult on hand may help in the Lorton’s Attic thrift store, and kids can raise money to donate to the center in lieu of (or in addition to) holiday or birthday gifts using a personal fundraising webpage.
Where: 9518 Richmond Highway, Lorton, VA Online: lortonaction.org
Habitat for Humanity Children as young as 5 can participate here as part of Habitat Youth Programs, which aims “to instill a love of volunteering from an early age.” Contact your local affiliate for details on onsite help, but other ways to get littles involved include making cards for donors, homeowners and volunteers using Habitat’s card creation kit; raising money through Helping Hands for Habitat; and writing letters to local lawmakers to speak out against substandard housing.
ACTIONS in Community Through Service This group, which formed in 1969, helps people and families in need in Prince William County through programs such as housing support and domestic violence services. Children 15 and younger must be accompanied by an adult. ACTS suggests that kids coordinate drives or collections in their schools or places of worship, or that they make kits of essentials for clients.
Where: 3900 ACTS Ln., Dumfries, VA Online: actspwc.org
Bethesda Cares This community outreach program for the homeless provides food, clothing and psychiatric services, and helps put a roof over the heads of people in the streets. Families can help by organizing drives to collect food, clothing or toiletries. During the winter, seasonal clothing for adults is especially needed.
The Salvation Army – Kettle Bell Ringing Rambunctious and fun-loving kiddos will have a blast ringing bells for The Salvation Army’s annual Red Kettle drive. Bell ringers usually sign up for a minimum 2-hour shift so it’s the perfect way to split duties between friends, siblings or group organizations. And, all the little ones need to do is ring a bell! They can be noisy, chatty and sweet all while raising money for those in need. Who wouldn’t drop some coins in the kettle?!
Rising Hope Mission Church Families looking for a place where their donations will go directly to the local community should check out Rising Hope Mission Church. 100% of donations go to people living in poverty along the Route 1 corridor in Fairfax County. Kiddos can host food drives, clothing donations and even plan a lemonade stand in support of Rising Hope. Each season the mission has different requests so parents and their kids can tailor their volunteering to what’s needed most at the church.
Kristin McCormick and Jenna Sumner from New Jersey are two licensed mental health professionals and educators who worked together to create the UPside Delivered—curated boxes for children ages 5-10, to help child have fun with their feelings.
Below are a few tips and tricks they’ve compiled to prevent summer brain drain and keep kids and families busy and happy while they are out of school.
What Are the Signs, Symptoms or Issues That Can Arise Out of “Summer Brain Drain”?
While some research shows children potentially losing skills based in math, language and reading over the summer, educators know that practice with these very skills and keeping the brain engaged is extremely important and helpful. Therefore, the signs and symptoms or issues that can possibly arise from “summer brain drain” are only apparent if the child spends a large amount of time in passive activities and is not active, physically or mentally, over the summer. Then you may see behaviors such as irritability, low frustration tolerance, emotional outbursts when asked to transition, difficulty sleeping or sleeping for too long. Additionally when not much is done to keep our brains active over the summer, the transition back to school may be slower and more difficult.
To help your kids manage their emotions, UPside Delivered’s carefully curated boxes for ages 5-10 years-old bring practical, fun, evidence-based tools and techniques to children and families, helping everyone to create calm. Pick the “Begin Box” that introduces the connection between thoughts, feelings and behaviors. Each box features five to seven items that your children can use to name their thoughts and feelings, journals, worry dolls, Buddha Boards and more.
Of course, parents are probably even more worried this year, following the 2020-21 pandemic school year. The concern of students “falling behind,” particularly in areas of math and language arts have been on the minds of parents and educators. While yes, students have missed some lessons and practice, they are not quite as far behind overall—they will get there! Learning is not linear and takes place in all settings, both formal and informal education is valuable.
Finding the balance between keeping kids engaged—socially and educationally—and allowing them enough down time is the goal to optimize learning and overall well-being. To offset any concerns, check out these fun subscription boxes that will get your kids exploring, learning and having fun at the same time.
OwlCrate Jr., is an award-winning monthly subscription book box. The boxes are curated for kids ages 8-12, and each box includes a brand-new novel, an exclusive letter from the author, plus cool activities, games, and fun goodies related to the theme of the month.
If cooking is more up your alley, learn about new countries and their cuisines with eat2explore! Each month kids receive an explorer box which includes: three recipe cards, a flag pin, country sticker, essential spices, activity sheet and a collectible. Choose from 18 different countries/regions like Italy, Mexico, Japan or USA North just to name a few. The kits combine history, geography, social studies, math and more as children create delicious, healthy meals right at home.
Learn even more about different cultures and diversity thanks to Little Global Citizens. This subscription service (send one time, every two months or every other month for a year) sends an expertly designed box to kids (aged 4-to-10) to bring a new country and its culture to life. Each box is filled with items from that country including authentic guides, crafts, screen-free activities (games and puzzles), language skills, recipes, a story book and more! Past boxes included China, India, Kenya, Egypt and Thailand.
Learn about women who have changed the world with GIRLS CAN! CRATE. This awesome monthly subscription box was created to empower girls—and boys (ages 5-10) to Do and BE anything by introducing them to fearless women of history who made the world better. Each month, a new kit celebrates the life of a strong, diverse female role model such as Ella Fitzgerald, Florence Nightingale, Marie Curie, Frida Kahlo, Malala Yousafzai, Sally Ride and more.
At the end of the day, we need to keep everything in perspective, especially with young kids, and realize that we all made it through one of the toughest years of our lives. Let your kids enjoy the outdoors this summer, learn a new recipe, explore a new book and country from home or even an extra few minutes on their electronics devices. Let’s celebrate that we’ve come up on the other side and that the future is bright with possibilities!
Allyson is a mom of two and has more than a decade of experience working in both television news and public relations. From national television shows to top newspapers, Allyson has worked around the world including a travel magazine in London, England, Phoenix TV and local hospital and healthcare association.
Summer is full of late nights, cool treats, and hopefully some bonding time camping, glamping or just chilling in the yard with the kiddie pool. But even the most relaxed parent will admit there’s more than one reason we are looking forward to these lazy, hazy days of summer coming to an end. Here are a few of ours.
Now that the kids are actually asleep BEFORE 10 p.m. (8 if you’re lucky) you get a little me time. And by me time, we mean binge-watching all those abandoned shows in your Netflix queue.
2. School lunches, baby.
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For the first time in almost three months, someone else will be responsible for feeding your constantly hungry pack. If you’re the lunch maker in the house, take heart. After a summer of being eaten out of house and home, making a lunch per kid will seem like a treat. At least at first.
3. We can stop worrying about “summer slide” and “brain drain.”
Not everything. But some things. Like not have to use your lunch break to shuttle kids from camp to sitter. Or getting in and out of the grocery store in less than 20 minutes (and not having to say “no” 25 times per child). Or actually reading a book in silence without having to lock yourself in the bathroom.
6. We get to hang out with other parent-friends at school drop off.
Because if you don’t actually get to talk to a grown-up person who isn’t explaining Minecraft or LOL Surprise dolls for hours on end, you just might forget how to speak in complete sentences.
7. And, conversely, you get to chill in the pick-up line.
You’ll have plenty of time to catch up on your social media feeds while waiting for the final bell to ring. Or maybe listen to your favorite NPR show or podcast. It’s okay to admit this is why we all get there 10 minutes early and sit in our cars. After all, we said hi and arranged playdates at drop-off.
8. Speaking of which, playdate season is back!
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Despite your best intentions, most of those end-of-the-year promises for epic playdates all summer long probably went unrealized. But now that you see your parent BFFs (and the kids see theirs) more often, it’s just easier to coordinate.
9. We get to return to our “regular” routines.
Nothing's better than getting back from vacation and restarting regular routines—and dressing appropriately for the appropriate task. And we’re not saying yoga pants aren’t appropriate for most of those. But if you want to wear pants with pockets, you go girl!
Like a golden beacon, the school bus arrives. If your kid takes the bus, heading back to the classroom means you won’t spend precious minutes going the opposite direction of your work each morning. Save that for the after-school activities.
Missing the bath or shower was adorable when summer started. But you’re ready to see what your kid actually looks like under all the grime. And glitter. And paint.
13. You don't have to volunteer (yet).
Of course, you'll help out in the coming months (ahem), but because the year just started, you get to cut yourself some slack. No judgments.
14. We get to spend our daylight hours (or minutes) doing stuff that doesn't involve occupying a kid.
Believe it or not (and parents, ready or not), another school year is coming to an end. In just a few short weeks, your child will be off from school for approximately 12 weeks. Yes, 12 LONG weeks!
While summer vacation is a time of fun, full of barbeques, swimming, festivals, and late nights, it can also be a time of learning loss. Think about all of the time and hard work that your child has put into her learning, as well as all of the progress and gains that she has made with her reading this past year.
Unfortunately, a lot of that hard-won learning can be lost over the 12 weeks due to something known as “summer brain drain”. Summer brain drain is a loss of learning that can take place during summer vacation due to a break from active learning. This loss of learning and skills can be quite disconcerting for both parents and children.
In order to prevent summer brain drain, it is so incredibly important that your child keeps up with their reading all summer long. But, don’t worry! There are many fun and easy things that you can do to keep your child reading all summer long.
Enroll your child in a summer reading program through your local library. Most libraries offer some sort of summer reading program. These programs are fantastic and they encourage children to read a certain number of books over the summer months, usually providing rewards and incentives along the way. Often times, they hold celebrations at the end to celebrate the children’s achievements and accomplishments.
Take advantage of those rainy days! Use them as days to explore different libraries and bookstores! Spend a long time walking the aisles and exploring all of the books. It’s important to expose your child to all of the literary genres. Have fun sitting and reading books aloud with your child.
Designate a certain time of day as your daily reading time. If you do this consistently, it will easily become a part of your child’s daily routine. While your child is doing her reading, you should read as well! This sets an excellent example for your child by showing her that you value and enjoy reading.
Create a “book nook” in your home. A book nook is a closed-in, secluded spot where your child can go to do his reading. Make your book nook as comfy and cozy as possible since you want this to be a spot where your child can truly curl up with a good book.
Get your child into a reading series. Reading series are great because they provide children with the opportunity to get to know and connect with the characters on a deeper level. Children become attached to the characters, so when they finish reading a book, they will naturally want to read the next book in the series because they have established a connection with the characters. Some popular reading series currently out are Magic Tree House by Mary Pope Osborne, Captain Underpants by Dav Pilkey, Harry Potter by J.K. Rowling, My Weird School by Dan Gutman, and Diary of a Wimpy Kid by Jeff Kinney.
Present your child with a variety of reading materials. You don’t have to limit your child’s reading to just physical books; instead, provide him with a variety of reading materials, such as comic books, graphic novels, magazines, e-books, Kindle and newspapers. By presenting and exposing him to a wide variety of reading materials, it will help to keep reading fresh and exciting.
Bring books on your trips to the park and pool. When your child takes a break from climbing on the playground or swimming in the pool, have them take a book break! It does not need to be for a long period of time; it can be just long enough to read a picture book or a chapter in a chapter book. Reading in a new and different environment can be an exciting experience for children.
Encourage your child to write and illustrate her very own book! Kids love to write their own books. Some stores, such as Lakeshore Learning Store, sell bounded blank hardcover books that provide children with the perfect opportunity to write and illustrate their own stories. These blank books are really cool because they look like actual books, so your child will get to feel like a real author!
Read and act out stories together as a family. Hold a family story time, where each family member takes turns reading from the book. When the story is over, assign roles and act it out! Not only is this a fun activity for kids, but it also enables them to connect with the characters and story on a deeper level!
Start a neighborhood book club. Find a group of children and create a book club. Set weekly meetings, where the children have the opportunity to share and discuss the books that they read each week. Encourage the children to keep track of their daily reading on a book log; this way they will have something to share at the meetings. In addition to motivating your child to read, a book club also serves as an excellent social activity.
Yes, summer vacation provides a much-needed break for our children from the constant demands and work that is asked of them for 10 straight months. It is also a time for children to re-charge their batteries and enjoy just being a kid. But, summer vacation can also be a time of great learning loss. In order to mitigate this loss, it is imperative that your child keeps up with her reading over the 12 weeks off from school.
As you can see, there are many fun and easy ways to do this. Then, on that glorious day in August or September when your child finally goes back to school, he will be able to start the new school year putting his best foot forward.
My name is Faith Goldstein. I am a children's book author; my first book, Gorillas' Night Out, was recently published by Indigo River Publishing. I am a mother to two enegetic boys, ages five and ten. Prior to having children, I was a Kindergarten teacher for eight years. Shopping is my passion!
Parents need every tool in their arsenal to beat the heat, combat boredom and make those life-long memories over summer vacation. Now Amazon is here to help with a handy new feature, Appstore Family, which will make your life, and summer, much easier.
What You Can Expect from the Appstore Family
The new Appstore Family puts all your favorite kids’ apps and games for Amazon Fire tablet in one easy-to-search place that breaks the options down into categories, like Education, Entertainment and Games. Not only can parents and kids browse all of the games and apps available, but it makes it easy to buy those apps with a few quick clicks using your Amazon account.
Additionally you can subscribe to the Appstore Family newsletter, which will keep you in the loop on deals and new app launches (so you can totally be the cool, in-the-know mom). Here are some of the ways you can use Appstore Family to help you survive, and your kids thrive, during summer vacation.
Avoid Summer Brain Drain
The dreaded summer brain drain is one of the most challenging aspects of summer. You want your kids to be free of the burdens of school, but you also want them to head back prepared and ready to move forward. Educational apps, like ABCMouse.com Early Learning Academy, give kids the best of both worlds. The app features thousands of games and activities that teach kids math, reading, social studies and art in a way that feels like play time.
The app is also designed to help kids progress and encourages them to move forward by earning rewards as they meet challenges along a step-by-step learning path. They’ll be excited to play games on their Amazon Fire tablet and earn rewards, but they will also be learning and keeping those minds working while they have fun. It’s really a no-brainer.
Beat the Heat
While summer sun means plenty of outdoor play, sometimes the heat is just too much and you have to seek refuge indoors. A little bit of screen time can keep the boredom bug away when you’re stuck inside. However, you don’t have to sacrifice creative play for entertainment. Apps like the Toca Life series give kids tools for opened-ended, imaginative play all at the touch of their fingertips.
Toca Life: World combines access to all of the Toca Life apps in one place, allowing imaginations and pretend play to soar with the ability to mix and match all of the locations and characters from each of the individual apps. You can also select and buy even more characters and locations in the new app, which has over 50 locations and 300 characters available to purchase.
Travel in Comfort
Summer vacations offer priceless family memories, but the journey to get to your destination isn’t always snapshot-worthy when you’re traveling with kids. Long car rides and airplane travel can leave kids antsy and bored. You probably don’t have room to bring along your entire toy box, but you can load your Amazon Fire tablet with entertainment-packed apps, like the NOGGIN app.
Kids will find all of their favorite Nickelodeon characters and shows all in one place, free from advertising. In addition to over 1,500 episodes of shows like Peppa Pig and PAW Patrol, the app also features educational videos hosted by kid-favorites Moose and Zee. Altogether there’s more than enough to keep your kids content, and even learning, while you sit in traffic or wait in long lines trying to make it to your summer destination.
Whether you’re looking to keep your kids learning in an exciting way that feels more like play than homework, or you need to entertain your kids when it’s too hot to go out and play, Appstore Family has everything you need in one easy-to-access place. All of the newest and most popular apps for kids ages three to 12 can be easily browsed either on the web or right on your Amazon Fire tablet.
Gear up for summer and check out all the games and apps available through Appstore Family right here.
