There’s a new addition to this list of fee-free national parks days
As we navigate a crazy winter season, the thought of a getaway in 2024 sounds pretty magical. Once the dust has settled, heading to a national park is an awesome way to enjoy the great outdoors, especially when it’s free! Get your kids set up with the Junior Ranger booklet in your park of choice and see what the whole family can learn about these amazing areas of the country.
The National Park Service has just announced the list of days when all national park will waive their admission fees. New for 2024, Juneteenth National Independence Day (June 19) has been added as a national parks fee-free day. Juneteenth was signed into law as a national holiday on June 17, 2021, commemorating the abolition of slavery in the United States.
“National parks are places that awaken senses, inspire curiosity, encourage reflection, and foster joy,” National Park Service Director Chuck Sams said. “The entrance fee-free days expand opportunities for people to visit their national parks and experience the beauty and history of our country.”
When can you get into the National Parks without paying?
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The 2024 free admission for everyone days include:
Mon., Jan. 15: Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Birthday
Sat., Apr. 20: First day of National Park Week
New for 2024: Wed., June 19: Juneteenth National Independence Day
Fri., Aug. 4: Anniversary of the Great American Outdoors Act
Sat., Sep. 28: National Public Lands Day
Mon., Nov. 11: Veterans Day
With more than 400 parks across the country, there are plenty of options to choose from. Whether you’re planning a fall foray, a winter getaway, a spring fling, or a summer trip, you can find a free admission day for every season.
Even though admission is free on these special days, other paid activities are not. You may need to pay amenity or user fees where applicable. These fees include the cost of activities, such as camping, as well as boat launches, transportation, or touring fees.
If the six annual free days don’t fit your schedule, some of the national parks are fee-free every day of the year (or at least every day they’re open). Some of the most notable entrance fee-free parks include:
We’ve got glow-in-the-dark science worthy of any home laboratory
Calling all mad—we mean mom—scientists (and daring dads, too)! Try these six glow-in-the-dark science experiments for kids after the sun goes down: we promise they will light up your night. For more projects, check out our ultimate list of science experiments for kids.
If you're looking for a fast fix on fun, snap a few glow sticks and affix them to the spokes of a bike. When it gets dark, turn the kiddos loose on their wheels and enjoy an eerily dazzling light display. If you want to up the creativity quotient, try rearranging the glow sticks to make new patterns. Just remember to attach them well, as they have a way of taking flight!
The Science Lesson: Sensory Memory Riddle us this: Why do the three or four glow sticks you affixed to the bike spokes give the appearance of one solid line while the wheels are spinning? It's not because you're seeing the trailing lights from the glow stick. You are experiencing something known as iconic memory, which is sensory memory—or the shortest-term memory you have—that allows your mind to store an image for the few moments your brain needs to process what it has seen.
Glowing, Smoking, Bubbles
Add a little dry ice to bubble solution and the contents of an activated glow stick and get ready to rock the glow-in-the-dark scene in your neighborhood. Owlcation whipped up an awesome glow-in-the-dark science experiment to create glowing bubbles, and The Maker Mom thought to add dry ice to the same experiment here. The bubbles are out of this world—they glow and rise from the smoke. Naturally, we recommend an adult to handle the dry ice (skin contact can burn) and supervise this experiment.
The Science Lesson: Sublimation When a substance passes directly from a solid phase to a gas phase without ever becoming a liquid, it sublimates. Dry ice sublimates to gas, and the bubbles encapsulate the gas. Activated liquid from the glow stick adds to the excitement and is an example of a chemiluminescent, or a light that is produced as an energy byproduct when a chemical reaction takes place.
For all you gore-lovers, this experiment by Little Bins for Little Hands is low on trickery and high on thrills. We used it for our inspiration, then added a little glow stick juice to the mix. Why convert pumpkin guts into a slimy putty when you can convert them into a slimy, glowing putty? Using nothing more than the contents of a glow stick, glue, and starch, you'll have a perfectly putrid pumpkin concoction in no time.
The Science Behind the Spooky: Polymers and Non-Newtonian Fluid The white glue that's used as a base in this pumpkin slime is a polymer or a large chain of molecules made up of smaller units that repeat themselves. Liquid starch changes the structure of the glue's molecular chain, making it thicker, and turning it into a non-newtonian fluid. A non-Newtonian fluid is neither a true liquid nor a true solid. You can pick it up like a solid; however, it will begin to flow like a liquid (especially when heated) and will also take the shape of its container.
With all the options for making something glow by using the contents of a glow stick out there, we loved finding Fun at Home with Kids' recipe for glowing water that uses nothing but ground-up vitamin B-50 and a black light. And since it's not sticky and non-toxic, this makes the perfect lure for getting your bitty bats into the bathtub after a full day of haunting.
The Science Lesson: Phosphors versus Chemiluminescence Vitamin B-50 is a phosphor, or a member of a group of substances that radiate visible light after being energized by a light source, such as the UV radiation from a black light. This particular glow is different from the light created by chemiluminescence—that is, the light is emitted as a product of a chemical reaction—which you find in a glow stick.
We all know that oil and water just don't mix. But what happens when you make them glow, add kids, dim the lights, and fill their brains with words like "density" and "polarity"? Magic. That's right—Pure. Magic. We love the tutorial over at Growing a Jeweled Rose, and the best part about it is how you can turn your oil and water experiment into a DIY lava lamp when you're through.
The Science Lesson: Density and Polarity An object's density—or how tightly packed together its molecules or atoms are—is a predictor of whether it will float or sink. Water molecules are more dense than oil molecules, and will always sink below oil. Additionally, water and oil have different polarities—or charges. Since water has both a negative and a positive charge, water molecules will attract other water molecules.
If you're really looking for some nighttime fun, you can't go wrong with this glowing sidewalk chalk. and then have them look out their windows before bedtime. This is a great one for National Night Out in August. Johanna at My Crazy Blessed Life inspired us to make our own glow-in-the-dark chalk, and we followed her recommendation to soak the chalk for two days before kicking up the fun factor with a black light.
The Science Lesson: Absorption and Properties of Salt Chalk is a salt, and salts are all distinguished by their property to absorb water. So when you let a stick of chalk soak in glowing water overnight, it will not only absorb water but also the phosphorescent properties of the glowing agent in the water.
Toddlers are hardwired to have a favorite parent, but love has nothing to do with it
My three-year-old won’t let my husband get her ready for bed. You know, that fun phase when your toddler prefers one parent? Only I will do. Cute, right? You may be imagining some mommy-and-me cuddles, footie pajamas snuggled into the crook of my arm while we read our favorite stories and sing silly bedtime songs. Not quite! Instead, picture this: I send her with her dad to get ready for bedtime, while I take a break to watch my favorite show. It’s called Washing the Dishes—I binge it every night. But about midway through, I have to go rescue them both and finish her bath (and her brother’s, who’s in the tub, too), get them dried and dressed, teeth brushed and jammied up, as only I’m permitted to do. When it’s all done, all I want to do is lie horizontally and stare at the ceiling.
Being the preferred parent for every task, every time, is hard, especially when you’ve worked or parented all day. And for single parents, it’s hard when you’re somehow managing to do it all nonstop (more on this further down). You’re depleted, and odds are good that you still have a day’s worth of work ahead of you when they finally go to sleep. It’s not your child’s fault. It’s not your partner’s fault. It’s just the way it is right now, and you’re torn between loving the honor and drowning in your child’s constant need for your help.
What is toddler favoritism?
Toddler or parental favoritism is when a little kid only wants to spend time with one parent and will mostly only allow that parent to take care of their needs. And they aren’t subtle. They can be so forceful in their preference that not getting mom or dad can lead to tantrums and physical resistance.
Why do toddlers have a parental preference?
For a number of reasons. Toddlers are constantly trying to assert their independence and this is one way to do so, much like how they choose a particular lovey as their favorite (and we hope you have at least three backups stashed away!). They also tend to develop a preference for the parent who more routinely does things for them, and this preferred parent can change over time—like when a new baby joins the family and your firstborn starts spending way more time with the non-birthing parent.
Favoritism is actually also a survival tactic for kids. “Children, especially ones under the age of 5, are reliant on their primary caregivers for survival and unconsciously act on this when they insist on only accepting help and nurturing from one parent,” says Sarah Alperin, a child behavior expert. “Of course, it’s not personal, though it can be really hard not to take it that way when you’re the parent who’s shut out.”
When a kid sees that one parent is more available than the other, they fight to keep it that way because connecting and having their needs met is so crucial, so they go where they get the most consistent results. This is called ‘hierarchies of attachment,’ in which kids unconsciously rank their caregivers based on who has been around the most. As their memories improve and they experience more with all caregivers, they become more comfortable with both parents and less rigid about who they want in their corner.
Should you be concerned if your toddler prefers one parent?
According to experts, this phenomenon isn’t necessarily a bad thing. It can be a sign of a healthy relationship between a child and both parents. “Favoring or excluding one parent is your child saying, ‘I can choose you right now because I know my other parent will be there for me regardless’,” says Lydia Mays, Ph.D., founder & CEO of See Beautiful. “Child favoritism and exclusion ebb and flow through not only the toddler years but also into childhood.” And guess what? It’s even expected during a time of uncertainty, anxiety, or stress. Toddler parents learned this all too well in 2020.
How to handle your kid only wanting mom or dad
So what do you do? How do you parent one, or even multiple kids, when you’re constantly being tapped to provide care and reassurance for your “barnacle child?” (We’re not being mean. We didn’t make up that term. It’s a thing.) First and foremost, the parent who is not preferred needs to play it cool. “When parents take it personally, children know and begin to sense parental insecurity,” Alperin explains. “Any insecurity a child senses in a parent will signal them to push them farther away in an attempt to seek a more competent and capable caregiver. What children seek and respond to the most is consistency, safety, acceptance, and connection.”
There are also ways to help foster connection between your kiddo and their less-preferred parent. Mays suggests the following ways to help the less-chosen parent swing the pendulum back toward shared parental choice—and avoid hurt feelings and total burnout:
For the “Barnacle Parent”:
Pass the fun baton: Divvy up roles and let the “less-chosen” parent tap in for the things your toddler loves to do most!
Be gone: When you’re physically away from your child, it provides opportunities for your toddler to have reconnecting and relationship-building time with the other parent.
Handoff: When your child is leaning heavily on you for support and the other parent is home, hand off the toddler’s need to the less-chosen one (e.g., “Mommy can’t right now, but Daddy can help you” or “Daddy’s busy right now, but Papa is free to do that with you.”)
High praise: Give compliments to the other parent in a way that your child can see the wonderful things that person is doing, too. For example, “Mommy makes up the best bedtime stories!” or “Daddy’s dinner is always my favorite. It’s so delicious.”
For the “Less-Chosen Parent”:
Have thick skin: It makes perfect sense that feeling snubbed by your toddler would be tough, but this action is only because you’re doing a great job and your child trusts you and knows you’ll be there for them. While hard, it’s a healthy phase for your child. Try not to get your feelings hurt. Be patient, understanding that withdrawing or showing frustration could further strengthen the attachment between your child and the “barnacle parent.”
One-on-one: Take some time to establish new one-on-one routines and traditions.
Love hard: Consistently affirm your love for your child and reassure him of your presence and the joy you experience being part of his life every day.
For parents navigating this alone:
Your goal will be to bolster your child’s independence and confidence. Atlanta psychologist Ellen Berman, Ph.D., notes that “single parents are in a unique relationship with their children, in that they must find ways to balance the family responsibilities in age and developmentally appropriate ways, often more so than dual-parent households.” To encourage your “barnacle baby’s” independence, focus on:
Routine: During the day, when kids know what to expect and when, they’re more likely to take on new responsibilities without feeling overwhelmed.
Advance planning: Odds are, you’re juggling a million tasks at once. When your child needs your attention, it might help to be prepared with a re-direct (if you’re unable to help right then) or with a set time during your day when you can help.
Prioritizing sleep: There’s no doubt that you’re burning the candle at both ends. Make sure you’re giving yourself time to recharge and remember that your child’s frustration at sometimes having to take a number is greatly magnified when they’re tired, too.
At the end of the day, this phase won’t last forever, and we promise you’ll get through it. Whether you’re constantly being chosen to do all the things, or never—or perhaps you have no choice and are the only option for doing all the things—you’re likely doing it very well, and we see you. Keep up the good work, and in the meantime, check out these children’s books, which might help spread the love.
Children’s books for relationship reconnection with Dad:
How fast does a tornado go? What’s the tallest tree in the world? Find out!
When it comes to conversation, nothing beats the weather, especially if you can spout off a few cool facts about weather science or space trivia for the kids. Use these fun science facts to create your own trivia questions for teens or kids for a game night or just to learn something new.
1. Some tornadoes can be faster than Formula One race cars!
2. There are 2,000 thunderstorms on Earth every minute.
3. The wind is silent until it blows against something.
4. There are ice caves in Iceland that have hot springs.
5. The fastest recorded raindrop was 18 mph!
6. The US gets over 1200 tornadoes a year.
7. Lightning can strike twice.
8. Clouds look white because they are reflecting sunlight from above them.
9. Yuma, Arizona gets over 4000 hours of sunshine a year, making it the sunniest place on Earth. The least sunny place is the South Pole, where the sun only shines on 182 days a year (Which would you rather live in?).
10. Rain contains vitamin B12.
11. A bolt of lightning is five times hotter than the sun.
12. A hurricane releases enough energy in one second to equal that of 10 atomic bombs.
13. It can be too warm to snow but never too cold.
6. Even in an airplane, a trip to Pluto would take about 800 years.
7. Ham the Astrochimp was the first hominid in space, launched on Jan. 31, 1961.
8. Neptune’s days are 16 hours long.
9. It takes eight minutes and 19 seconds for light to travel from the sun to Earth.
10. The footprints on the moon will be there for 100 million years.
11. A neutron star can spin 600 times in one second.
12. Jupiter is the fastest-spinning planet in the solar system (it only takes about 10 hours to complete a full rotation on its axis).
13. Sound does not carry in space.
14. The Earth's core is as hot as the surface of the sun.
15. The very first animals in space were fruit flies... they were sent up in 1947 and recovered alive.
16. In 2011, ten-year-old Kathryn Aurora Gray discovered a supernova (a star that has run out of energy, explodes, and then collapses before it dies) that no one else had seen before.
17. Europa, one of Jupiter's moons, has saltwater geysers 20x taller than Mt. Everest.
18. Saturn's rings are made from trillions of chunks of orbiting ice.
Dear Day Camp, Hi. I want to say right off the bat that we are cool. I like and need you. Because you take my complicated, sensitive kid every day, and then she comes home later, and she did things, and she was safe and happy. You must be doing something right.
But I have a request. Please, please be a true partner to working parents and stop with the crazy hat days. Or, more realistically, go crazy with crazy hat days and any other silly accessories—I’ll even donate that questionable furry purple stole thing that keeps falling on me when I try to get stuff out of the top of my closet—but please don’t make it another to-do for me.
Because no matter how many e-mail reminders you send during the days leading up to these cute spirit activities, it is a mathematical certainty that some of us just won’t be able to get it done and our children will be left out, wondering why their parents overlooked them. For all the articles about the invisible mental load, this one is not invisible at all, and it needs to be addressed.
Crazy hat day is “hey, let’s see if moms can handle another thing” day. Well, today I couldn’t. And I don’t need to see the sad photos to know that many other moms (and dads) couldn’t, either.
Today wasn’t a surprise. I knew crazy hat day was today. At least three days ago, I saw the e-mail pop up as I was responding to the latest midday text from a caregiver in between meetings at work, asking about someone’s eczema cream or where the velcro shoes were. I knew somewhere in my brain that my 5-year-old would go to camp today, and if she didn’t have a crazy hat packed in her bag, she would arrive and feel slighted and left out when all the other kids produced their lovingly packed crazy hats. And I still couldn’t get it done.
Not because I didn’t want to. But because my brain, and my partner’s brain, simply ran out of RAM to keep it on the to-do list. Or maybe we simply ran out of time. As two practicing attorneys with two children, every single day is an exercise in triage, all day, at work and at home. It is difficult to even find the time to register for camp—which we rely on as a critical piece of our childcare in the summer months.
And then to get the health records in. And label the clothes. And find a way to ensure that no one goes into camp without sunblock on. None of these tasks, individually, seems too daunting. But for parents who work literally around the clock, they are collectively oppressive. We get them done (just barely and only because my husband is aces) because if you want camp, you get the vaccine records in—that is non-negotiable for safety. No issue there.
But what about all the extra stuff. Why is that on me/us? (I am lucky, I think, that my partner even feels responsible for these extra assignments—I suspect most mothers are on their own. There’s definitely data on that.)
The point is, we pay good money to have our children loved and safely cared for during the day. And then we do all the things to make sure they can attend. And then we set up the system for the various supplies and accouterments to go with them in the camp routine and for someone to be home when they get off the bus and all that jazz.
Is it too much to ask not to be handed nearly daily extra assignments that are ultimately just more opportunities for us to drop the ball? Because we will. I will.
Sure, I could have spent some of the two whole hours I had free on Sunday locating or shopping for a “crazy” hat. But those are the only two hours I had to actually spend time with my babies whom I love and try hard not to disappoint when I can avoid it. I chose to use that time to bathe them, make them terrible grilled cheese (you use butter on the inside and outside, right?), and do bedtime with them—which is only even an option for me two days per week.
However, in choosing to spend the time that way, I was also, subconsciously, making a choice to screw my kid at camp today. And that just sucks.
Unfortunately, disappointing my children is part and parcel of my existence as a working mother. I often have to do other things when they want (and need) my attention and love. Work things. Things that are necessary for our livelihood.
But it doesn’t make sense that I am paying others to manufacture more opportunities for disappointments. I have gotten very good at letting my children down all on my own—and for free. I want—no, I need—the others in the village I have constructed to help me rear my children to minimize those opportunities for sadness and let-downs, not add to them.
Please don’t get me wrong. I am not down on camp. I loved it as a child, and I get why they do all these fun spirit things. My kids are enjoying their experiences at camp, and I am sincerely grateful for the peace of mind it affords me to know that my kids are safe and happy when I cannot be with them because we have a mortgage.
But few things are as crushing to a mother, who is killing herself to pay the bills and also find some time to actually sit with her children and love them in person, as seeing a photo of her daughter watching quietly from the side while the other kids revel in front of the camera with their crazy hats.
When I saw it posted on social media, I wanted to run out of my office and drive to camp and hug her and explain to her that she isn’t an oversight. That I don’t not care about sending her to camp with the right stuff. I care so much.
Please, camp. Help me not fail at this one. I’m not asking you to cancel crazy hat day or whatever other crazy days are coming up that require supplies. It looks like great fun for the kids whose mothers (and fathers) managed to get it together.
But I am asking you to understand that I got home after 1 a.m. last night, and I didn’t see my children this morning, either. And under the current setup, I simply don’t stand a chance.
My household cannot take on any more things, and we need you to be a real partner in our children’s happiness, not working against us (knowingly or not).
And if that means we pay a little more for camp and you take that cash and send out a counselor to buy whatever colored shirts or armbands you need to stick in a closet somewhere so that I never have to see that look on my daughter’s face in a camp photo again, I will gladly do so.
I’ll make the same plea to my kids’ teachers in September, too. I’m happy to contribute extra up front—I hereby authorize you to spend all of it on trips and party snacks to avoid breaking my child’s soul and my heart at 2 p.m. on a random Tuesday.
Also, while I’m focused on this. Please put me down now for all of the 8:15 p.m. parent-teacher conference slots and know that Grandma is coming to all the parties at 11:15 a.m. Sounds funny but she’s really coming to all of those. I may not even meet you this year. And not because I don’t want to.
💔
The full version of this post was originally published on @mamasaidf.
Guys seem to have a dynamic of competition that is fun and playful but can lead to “big talk” or making yourself look and sound bigger than you are really are. Whether in sports, academics, girlfriends, stuff you have or stuff you can do, boys have no problem sharing all their amazing qualities with one another. This is awesome! Except that those qualities can sometimes be exaggerated and blown out of proportion.
Trust that you are an amazing kid without needing to promote yourself or exaggerate a single thing. People can see who you are without you having to tell them. Be yourself and you won’t need to talk yourself up.
2. Playing sports is not the most important thing in the world.
There is huge excitement and a rush that comes with watching someone who is great at a sport and everyone loves to be connected to a winning team. But sometimes the sports culture and our obsession with it can lead us to think sports are more important than everything else. It also creates the idea that kids who don’t play sports are second class citizens.
Your job as an awesome human being is to see everyone for their character above their performance. A lot of kids will be liked for what they do in a sport, not how they actually treat people. Avoid the trap of this particular type of group-think. And, if you are one of the athletes, be kinder and more inclusive of others because of it. Not the other way around.
3. You are in charge of your body—your body is not in charge of you.
You have a strong mind and a strong body. You are in charge of it, no one else. It is special to me and I hope it is special to you. It doesn’t matter what others are doing with their bodies, you decide what you’re comfortable with.
You may feel sometimes as if your body is the leader of your actions, but your brain is what drives your body. Always. You will have some pretty lit (as you kids say these days) relationships when you are older and wiser and you will experience everything in time. Don’t rush.
4. Your emotions are just as important as your grades, sports, friends or activities—actually, even more so!
Historically, boys and men have been taught to ignore their emotions, but trust that you have just as many feelings as every other human being (about 27 basic ones and even more complex ones!). Limiting your emotions or choosing to ignore them, limits your existence and your incredible awe-filled life experiences!
So, no matter how uncomfortable, embarrassing or difficult it may be at times, listen to yourself, pay attention to how you feel and learn talk about your emotions with the people you trust (i.e. your mom). They make you who you are and you are amazing.
5. Blame me for anything.
There will be times that you are faced with difficult decisions. When all your friends are doing something that you know is not okay, when your conscience is tugging at your, but your brain is confused because something sounds fun or you’re curious or you don’t want your friends to be mad at you for not joining in.
When you know you should say no, but that doesn’t seem like enough, when the pressure is there, blame me. Tell your friends your mom turns crazy and will ground you for life. Tell them I have superhuman powers and will find out everything so you just can’t do it. Of course, I trust you to make good decisions, but when you need an excuse, blame me.
6. I expect you to make mistakes and yes, even fail at a few things, too.
If you don’t know this by now, I will tell you again; it’s okay to make mistakes. In fact, I want you to, because that means you are trying new things and pushing yourself outside your comfort zone. This is the only way to actually grow as a human being and to find out all your incredible strengths.
How you handle failure is one of the best things to know about yourself, because there is little in this world more difficult than failure. It does not denote an end, but only a hurdle over which one must learn a new way to leap. And I know you are a great problem solver.
7. I am so proud of you.
Already I can see inside of you a huge heart and a strong mind. I can see your generous spirit and caring soul that looks out for the underdog. I love your cool hairdos and your insistence on needing to come to your own decisions on your own time, in your own way. You have a depth of character, persistence and a profound desire for the truth. You already know yourself well.
Trust yourself, love yourself. You have everything inside of you that you will ever need. And know that I am here, always, loving and trusting you, shining a light on you as you grow, stretch and run wildly and beautifully through life. I am so proud of you.
Krissy Dieruf is a licensed marriage and family therapist. She lives in Minnesota with her husband and three children, loves to sing and dance around the house and has a soft spot for rebels and crazy hair.
These candy stores in NYC have what you crave for Valentine’s Day
Valentine’s Day will be here before you know it, and if you’ve got kids you know they’re expecting at least a little something sweet from you to celebrate (hey, it can’t be organic veggies all the time, right?). Luckily, we know just the place for you to find goodies for your sweethearts, both big and small. In fact, we know several places to get any kind of candy or chocolate you might desire—we’re talking fine chocolates, bulk candy, vintage candy, Swedish candy, and more. So the next time you’re in need of a sugar fix, head to one of these candy stores in NYC.
Located on Park Slope’s Seventh Avenue, Fferins of Brooklyn packs a wide variety of goodies into a relatively small storefront. Its eclectic and far-reaching offerings include nostalgia candy (Pop Rocks, candy necklaces, Astropops, and more), British imports (Aero Bar, Cadbury Flake, Wispa Gold), and artisanal treats for sophisticated palettes. Plus: Harry Potter candy, uncommon beverages (Bob Ross Energy Drink anyone?), and bulk candy for pick and mix also line the shelves.
This Coney Island institution has been serving up candy apples in the Big Apple for over 75 years. It’s hard to pass up a candy apple with rainbow sprinkles to eat along the boardwalk. But if apples aren’t your thing, you can also count on Williams for lollipops, fudge, and ice cream to get you through.
Arguably the definitive NYC candy shop, the Lower East Side’s Economy Candy is an institution established in 1937. This “Nosher’s Paradise of the Lower East Side” stocks over 2,000 kinds of candy and other goodies that you’ll find packed floor-to-ceiling. Whether you’re looking for the newest treat on the candy scene, nostalgic candy brands from decades past or an incredible selection of vintage trading cards from shows and movies like Alf,E.T., and Mork & Mindy, you can find it here.
Insider Tip: If you’re overwhelmed by the jam-packed layout, try Economy Candy’s online store, where you can search candies by hue to get perfectly color-coordinated hauls.
While it’s not a longstanding, beloved New York institution, if your child loves Sour Patch Kids, Sour Patch Kids NYC could be a fun outing. Yes, it’s a huge store dedicated to those tart tykes, with every flavor and type for sale, as well as over-the-top creations (ice cream, waffles, etc.) at the “Sweets Bar.” Lots of SP merch is for sale as well, and you can hop in the Sour Patch NYC cab for a photo op before you leave.
You’ll find Dylan’s Candy Bar locations all over the country now, but the company, brainchild of Dylan Lauren, debuted in NYC in 2001. The NYC store is located in Hudson Yards and features the brand’s stylish and wildly colorful, candy-centric aesthetic. All the candy bases are covered here: bulk, chocolate, lollipops, gummies, sours, nostalgia, and more, but Dylan’s is also a good spot to hit for candy gifts with a little extra, such as chic treat-filled “tackle boxes”, special Valentine’s collections and pops, and over-the-top candy towers, candy “cakes,” and even a chocolate “bash cake” filled with confections. They can also whip up a DIY Candy Buffet for your next party.
While Swedish candy store Sockerbit is no more, Bon Bon (“A Swedish Candy Co.”) is open to satisfy all of your Swede candy needs and more. Gummy creations such as Swedish Fish are of course on the menu, with a selection of fish from popular maker Kolsvart offered. Plus: Swedish lollipops, gum, beverages, and even Swedish delicacies. Bon Bon’s mixes are fun and festive, with curated collections of sweet, sour, jelly/marshmallow, and even gluten-free and vegan. Good news if you’re the type to crave Swedish sweets after bedtime (or at least the kids’ bedtimes)—Bon Bon is open til midnight.
Another NYC institution, Forest Hills’ Aigner Chocolates is widely recognized as producing some of the finest chocolate in the city. Founded in 1930, the shop creates its Austrian chocolate using time-tested recipes and vintage machines. Valentine’s Day is a big deal here, of course, and Aigner’s offers a wide range of chocolate treats and pops in shapes and flavors of all kinds. The bedazzled chocolate video game controller is sure to win your gamer’s heart, and you can’t go wrong with a sprinkle stripe pop.
Find the Candy You Need at This Staten Island Favorite
8. Philip’s Candy
The exterior may not be much to look at, but Philip’s Candy is a local favorite in Northern Staten Island. The Staten Island extension to the now-closed “Coney Island’s Oldest Candy Shop,”—it was founded in 1930—Philip’s has a quiet mom-and-pop atmosphere, an old timey charm, and lovingly crafted chocolates and candies. Signature treats include fresh fruit hand-dipped in melted chocolate, chocolate-covered marzipan and graham crackers, and flavored popcorn. Just remember they’re closed Mondays.
Get a jumpstart on your holiday shopping at our favorite toy stores in Boston. Hint: They have great gift recs
The holiday countdown has begun! We know for many parents that means thinking about finding that perfect gift for family and friends, even while driving around to see holiday lights and heading out to find your tree. Sure, it’s always easy to shop online, local toy stores in Boston have some of the coolest gifts for kids in town. With everything from personalized recommendations to gorgeous gift wrapping and free local delivery, these independent toy stores make holiday shopping a breeze. Here’s where to shop small this year.
This "little shop with a big mission" was opened back in 2003 by children's book author, Peter H. Reynolds, the brilliant mind behind The Dot. The large blue bunny outside welcomes kids into the cozy shop that's not only got a great selection of toys, but books as well. As you can imagine, the authors who "hop" into the shop for book signings and readings are some of the best around. Find all sorts of unusual and interesting toys for everyone on your list (no matter what the occasion) when you stop in this store in Dedham.
Insider Tip: Gift wrapping is always free at this friendly store.
Let's just say you'd have to be crazy not to shop here. CouCou (pronounced “koo-koo”) is the French word used for the globally popular children’s game of Peek-a-boo. The store, located in the South End neighborhood of Boston, Massachusetts, offers a wide selection of uniquely curated products for ages 0-10, including clothes, toys, crafts, homewares and gifts, imported from around the globe.
Featuring shiny new things to spruce up your kiddo’s nest, Magpie Kids focuses on modern toys. It’s where you’ll find locally made toys, as well clothing and gift items from recognizable brands like Milkbarn, Angel Dear, and Plan Toys. Stop in to find that just-right gift, whether you're shopping for baby's arrival, baby's first birthday, or any other memorable milestones for your kids. Whatever they're into—arts and crafts, playing music, reading, or just making believe—they've got what you need here.
One of Boston's newer toy stores on the block, The Happy Journey was opened not too long ago by Lindsay Perrelli, an elementary school teacher and children's author. It’s everyone’s go-to spot for educational, high-quality toys, books, and games that Perrelli has personally selected. Stop by each season to browse the skillfully built displays that are as appealing to parents as they are to kids.
With eight Boston-area locations to choose from, you'll definitely find what you need at this super-cool toy store. Shop their online store where you can find gifts sorted by age and interest, as well as some super fun options like personalized surprise packs. With free shipping on orders over $50 and free gift wrap, this is a great option for those who want to check gift buying off their list, but haven't quite gotten around to it yet this year.
You can get tons of toys plus all the essential baby gear you need all under one roof at Magic Beans. They've been around since 2004, so they're totally up on all the hot toys and new products that you need. And did we mention they're parents, too? Takes one to know one when it comes to finding gifts and products your kids will actually use.
This toy shop is a community favorite and has called Jamaica Plain home for over 20 years. It is run by a local mom who is focused on building community and giving back. Don't worry—she also loves stocking the shelves with the coolest toys around. The oversized Alien Boingers that are hanging around outside the store set the tone for your shopping experience here. It's all about fun and finding that just-right toy, book, or game that will be played with time and time again.
Good to Know: There's free local deliveries of orders over $50 and free shipping on orders over $75.
Insider Tip: We can't get enough of the Boing's Kindness Club that encourage kids to perform random acts of kindness in their community for a small prize.
667 Centre St. Jamaica Plain, MA Online: boingtoys.com
8. Eureka! Puzzles
This toy store right in the heart of Coolidge Corner focuses on puzzles, board games, brain teasers, and STEM gifts for kids of all ages. Make shopping for kids easy on everyone in the family (we're looking at your grandparents) when you create a wish list for your kids. It's the best gift to give those who are doing the shopping. And if you're looking for something a little different to give this year? Why not try a personalized puzzle on Eureka's new puzzle press.
Parents-to-be know that Tadpole is the place to go for baby registries and all the gear you'll need to bring the little one home. They also have a ton of unique gifts for kids like including STEM toys, LEGO sets, puzzles, and more. It's a great spot to shop for the toddler in your life.
No need to get wet: being just near a blue space is great for your health
If you needed an excuse to hit the coast year then you’ll be happy to learn that going to the beach changes your brain, according to science. Actually, being near any body of water (think: lake, river or the sea) brings many health benefits for your mind and body in what scientists call “blue space.”
In fact, a new study from the Journal of Environmental Psychology reveals that exposure to blue space as a child has a major impact on a person’s mental health and will encourage them to maintain a healthy relationship with nature into adulthood.
“Building familiarity with and confidence in and around blue spaces in childhood may stimulate a joy of, and greater propensity to spend recreational time in, nature in adulthood, with positive consequences for adult subjective well-being,” says the study.
The study involved 18 countries and examined the relationship between adult well being and a person’s exposure to blue space as a child. Respondents shared their experiences with blue space during childhood, including how frequently they visited it and how comfortable their parents were allowing them to be in and near water. In a nutshell: the more blue space exposure as a child equalled a better adult well being.
“Adults also had familiarity with and confidence around coasts, rivers, and lakes, as well as higher levels of joy around bodies of water and a greater propensity to spend recreational time in nature during adulthood, says WebMD. “In turn, this lifted their mood and wellbeing.”
The impact that bodies of water have on our well-being are numerous: reduced depression, increased levels of creativity, and the ability to naturally de-stress are just a few. Now you know why spending time soaking up the waves and summer sun makes you feel so amazing!
Here’s how it works. Scientists say that being near water and listening to the waves can bring you to a more meditative state and lead to reduced depression. The undulating waves are relaxing, acting as a de-stimulator and can help bring more mental clarity as well.
While your mind is in a relaxed state, you are more likely to be more creative as your brain rests. The blue state helps take you away from the everyday stressors of life and you are free to let your imagination roam. The Global Healing Center recommends literally surrounding yourself with the color blue to bring about a sense of calm and inspire creativity.
Scientists also say that a swim in the ocean can de-stress you, stat. Not only can the water feel refreshing, but the naturally occurring negative ions are also said to help counteract the positive ions we come into contact with on a day to day basis, leaving us in a more peaceful and relaxed state.
Just stepping foot onto the sandy shores of the beach does a body good. Researchers say that the simple act of touching sun-warmed sand brings almost immediate comfort––unless you’re not a sand person.
Finally, standing in front of a huge body of water can give you a fresh perspective on life. That sense of awe you feel being next to something so huge in life can really minimize the things you stress on from day to day.
The next time you’re feeling dragged down by life, why not hit up your closest beach? Indulge in the blue space––your mind and body will thank you.
The HBO Max series will be an adult animated comedy
Scooby and Shaggy usually steal the show when it comes to any Scooby-Doo episode, but that’s about the change thanks to a new HBO series. Together with Warner Bros. Animation, the show is all about the “unsung and under appreciated brains of the Scooby-Doo Mystery Inc. gang, Velma Dinkley.”
Velma is slated to be a ten-episode series for the first season and the leading lady will be voiced by executive producer, Mindy Kaling. Before the kiddos get too excited, parents should know this is styled as an adult animated comedy series and likely won’t be appropriate for young viewers.
The first teaser trailer shows an outrage Velma sending an email to HBO Max about a new Judy Jetson show, a “genre bending comedic origin story.” It quickly transitions to a scene reminiscent of cult classic horror film, Scream, in which Velma engages in a serial killer who is inside her house about how classics should never be changed. Cue the knife!
Velma Plot
HBO Max’s logline for the show states it is an “original and humorous spin unmasks the complex and colorful past of one of America’s most beloved mystery solvers.” Viewers will notice that Scooby will actually not be a part of the series.
“It felt like what made it a kids’ show was Scooby-Doo. That coincided with Warner Bros. Animation saying, ‘Hey, you can’t use the dog,’” showrunner Charlie Grandy revealed at Comic Con. “So we were like, ‘Great, this works out well.’”
According to Variety, Kaling revealed the cast of Velma at New York Comic Con. Leads will include features Sam Richardson as Shaggy, Constance Wu as Daphne and Glenn Howerton as Fred.
Additional voices incljude Jane Lynch, Wanda Sykes, “Weird Al” Yankovic, Russell Peters, Melissa Fumero, Stephen Root, Gary Cole, Ming-Na Wen, Ken Leung, Cherry Jones, Frank Welker, Fortune Feimster, Yvonne Orji, Sarayu Blue, Nicole Byer, Shay Mitchell, Debby Ryan, Kulap Vilaysak, and Karl-Anthony Towns.
Velma Release Date
HBO Max’s Velma series will debut sometime in 2023.
