9 Peaceful Places to See Spring Blooms around Seattle

by Alaina WeimerMarch 13, 2022

Spring is in the air, and between the cherry blossoms and spring blooms in our city gardens, there are oh-so-many reasons to get the kids outside. Lucky for us, our community has a basketful of parks and gardens filled with the most spectacular springtime blooms waiting to inspire your little gardeners. Read on to find the best spots to find spring flowers and cherry blossoms around Seattle.

University of Washington Campus

spring blooms in seattle, cherry blossoms in seattle — Rebecca Gourley/University of Washington

The University of Washington campus is by far one of the most popular places to view and take pictures with spectacular blooms, especially if cherry blossoms are your jam. If you really want to wow your kids, the Quad is the place to be. You'll find 29 huge cherry trees, planted over 86 years ago. A great spot to capture your crew frolicking around in the beautiful, fluffy pink and white flowers. Don't forget you can celebrate all of the above at the annual Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival, taking place in-person this year, from April 8-10, 2022.

1410 N.E. Campus Pkwy.
Seattle, WA 98195
Online: washington.edu

Washington Park Arboretum

Speaking of UW, we would be remiss if we didn’t include the Washington Park Arboretum. Spanning from Madison Park to Montlake, just south of the U District, the Arboretum is alive with flowers this spring, including cherry blossoms, cascading yellow gold chain trees and blooming true ashes. Start your trip outside the Graham Visitor’s Center (open Weds.-Sun., 10 a.m.-4 p.m.), then let the little ones burn off some energy as they explore the more than 200 acres of foot trails, lawns and paths leading to ponds. During your visit, check out the iconic Azalea Way. It’s a 3/4-mile walk through the heart of the Arboretum, chock full of gorgeous flowering plants and trees. You are sure to find a spot or two perfect for snapping some heart-warming pics of your kiddos. Also, consider checking out the gorgeous Seattle Japanese Garden. It just reopened for the season March 1, 2022. Psst…after your shots, don't forget to take advantage of the two-mile Arboretum Loop Trail. It's a perfect stroll for after the camera roll.

2300 Arboretum Dr. E.
Seattle, WA 98112
206-543-8800
Online: botanicgardens.uw.edu

Kubota Garden

best places for spring blooms and cherry blossoms in seattle — Jamilah Newcomer/Jamilahphotography.com

Rainier Beach’s gorgeous Kubota Gardens was built by Fujitaro Kubota in the late 1920s. Red and purple flowers, including large magnolia blossoms, are on display this time of year. Kiddos can navigate rocks, streams and serene ponds on the 20-acre property. Any of the gardens here provide you with a great photog opportunity, but the Waterfall At Mountainside and the Moon Bridge can also add a nice whimsical air to any Japanese garden-esque springtime shots. View the self-guided tour online to plan out your trip. And if you want to bring Fido along as a prop, dogs are welcome, provided they are on a leash and you clean-up after them. Bonus: It’s free admission to the public.

Insider tip: While bigger kids should be able to freely explore without much trouble, toddlers might need a little help making their way across the garden’s narrow paths and bridges.

9817 55th Ave. S.
Seattle, WA 98118
206-725-5060
Online: kubotagarden.org

Volunteer Park

An almost 50-acre refuge in Capitol Hill, Volunteer Park was designed by the famous Olmstead Brothers in the early 1900s. The park houses the completely renovated Seattle Asian Art Museum that has and a climbable water tower with 365 degree views of the city. Snap up some cutesy kiddo photos throughout the park’s immaculate landscaping and then let the little ones explore the Block play sculpture and playground. Hello, Insta!

1247 15th Ave. E.
Seattle, WA 98102
206-684-4075
Online: seattle.gov

Bellevue Botanical Garden

best spring blooms in seattle, cherry blossoms in seattle — kazuend via unsplash

This self-described "urban oasis" easily wears the mantle of "photo-worthy" for Eastside families, but it's definitely worth the drive for Seattle families too. Its 53-acres is divided into eleven smaller gardens, each with a distinct floral theme that makes finding the right spot for your family photo shoot (informal or otherwise) a breeze. Rhododendron Glen is blooming through summer, when the hydrangeas will make themselves known. And the Urban Meadow adds a little pollinator education to its gorgeous and colorful blooms with the Mason Bee exhibit (psst... get the details on how your family can rent mason bees to help pollinators do their job.). It's hard to go wrong at this expansive garden.

12001 Main St.
Bellevue, WA 98005
425-452-2750
Online: bellevuebotanical.org

Highline SeaTac Botanical Garden

This little-known garden just south of the city is a quiet spot to enjoy spring blooms and take sweet photos of your crew on a warm day. It's open daily from dawn to dusk, and families will find seven distinct garden landscapes on the 11-acre property. Look for draped vines, bodacious blooms and secret bridges as you make your way around the property. It's a great spot to stop and smell the flowers, learn about each garden's history and say cheese.

13735 24th Ave. S.
SeaTac, WA
206-391-4003
Online: highlinegarden.org

South Seattle College Arboretum & Seattle Chinese Garden

These gardens, nestled high atop a ridge in West Seattle, count as a two-fer in the land of garden photo-ops. Not only do fragrant, colorful blooms (and stunning views of the Seattle skyline and Elliott Bay) abound at the South Seattle College Arboretum, but you can find equally lovely flowers at the 5-acre Seattle Chinese Garden, located on the north end of the campus. The Arboretum is a “living laboratory” used by college students studying plant (and other) sciences. But it’s also a spot where kids can strike a pose worthy of framing. Parents can find more spots for a photo op at the Seattle Chinese Garden where traditional Chinese architecture blends seamlessly with the dynamic flora and fauna you can find here.

6000 16th Ave. S.W.
Seattle, WA 98106
Online: sites.southseattle.edu

Discovery Park

spring blooms in seattle, cherry blossoms seattle — Kristina V. via Yelp

The largest city park in Seattle, Discovery Park sits in the Magnolia neighborhood on land previously occupied by Fort Lawton. Here, kids can experience woodland trails, open fields and a beach flanked by a lighthouse. If it’s a clear day, both the Olympics and Cascades can be seen from the beach. In addition to blooming plants and wildflowers, an assortment of birds, including mallards, grebes, and—if you’re especially lucky—bald eagles can be spotted in the spring. Between the beach, the mountains, the lighthouse and the flowers in bloom, we are pretty sure your inner Anne Geddes will show through, as Discovery Park has just about everything a spring photo shoot requires. Psst...during your visit be sure to check out the awesome playground. You know your kids will want to let loose after cheesing it up for the camera.

3801 Discovery Park Blvd.
Seattle, WA 98199
206-684-4075
Online: seattle.gov

Seward Park

spring blooms seattle, cherry blossoms seattle — TIA International Photography/Seattle Parks and Recration flickr

Surrounded by Lake Washington on three sides, south Seattle’s Seward Park offers pristine views of Mount Rainier (a pic with your mini and the mountain? Yes, please!) and plenty of spots for picnics and portraits. A plethora of fresh flowering plants join conifers and ferns in making the park especially beautiful this time of year. Wanting to capture that wilderness vibe? Head on into the Magnificent Forest where the kids can explore Seattle’s biggest block of old-growth trees, with some dating back more than 250 years. Find an awesome Douglas Fir, plop your little explorer by it, and, bam!, you’ve got your PNW-vibing pic for grandparents in the books!

Good to know: If you’ve got a kiddo or two with grabby-hands syndrome, be sure to look out for signs warning about poison oak.

5900 Lake Washington Blvd. S.
Seattle, WA 98118
206-684-4396
Online: seattle.gov

— Alaina Weimer, Kristina Moy & Sara Billups

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10 Places to Learn About Black History in San Diego

by Bonnie TaylorFebruary 15, 2022

It’s Black History Month, making it an obvious time to celebrate the richness of Black History with your children, but you can visit these San Diego spots throughout the year. Visits to San Diego museum exhibits, sculptures and historical sites will spark discussions and enlighten young minds with history lessons about the first Black San Diegans as well as famous Black leaders including Martin Luther King, Jr. and Sojourner Truth. Read on for where to go for an educational and inspiring tour around the city on walking tours in San Diego.

Breaking of the Chains Monument

Teach your kids to keep Breaking the Chains of discrimination as this monument depicts. It was created by Melvin Edwards in 1995 as a testament to African Americans’ bravery on their path toward civil rights. This is found next to the Martin Luther King, Jr. Promenade, along with other outdoor sculptures and works of art nearby.

Breaking of the Chains Monument
301 1st Ave., Downtown

Martin Luther King, Jr. Promenade

Let the words of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. inspire your discussions as you walk down the promenade dedicated to him. It’s a 0.6-mile long walkway lined with 30 plaques engraved with his famous words. All along this path, you’ll find additional works of art and outdoor sculptures. It begins near Petco Park, runs through the Gaslamp Quarter and continues across from the Convention Center along the Children’s Park and ends at W. Market St.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Promenade
326 Harbor Dr., Downtown

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San Diego Public Library

It's a great time to explore the San Diego Public Library as it honors Black history, celebrates culture and community, and recognizes the achievements as well as the ongoing struggles of Black Americans.

In celebration of Black History Month, SDPL is hosting various thought-provoking programs both in-person and virtual as well as offering an opportunity for students to participate in a creative works contest. Check out our events page for month-long activities.

Online: www.sandiego.gov/public-library

World Beat Center

This renovated water tower has become one of the most important multicultural art and event centers in San Diego. The walls inside and out are brightly covered in murals and flags to commemorate Egyptian, African and Indigenous Cultures’ important leaders and historical cultures. Their weekly family drumming, dance and other classes are on hold right now, but there are virtual events online from poetry, tribute bands, a Malcom X birthday panel and discussions about African Americans’ presence in Latin America. They also have an onsite WorldBeat Café, currently open Fri.-Sun. for take-out featuring cultural dishes made with produce from their ethnobotany garden outside.

Work Beat Center
2100 Park Blvd., Balboa Park
619-230-1190
Online: worldbeatcenter.org

Sojourner Truth Statue

This famed UCSD sculpture was created by alumni and African American sculptor, Manuelita Brown. Sojourner was a suffragist and abolitionist who used the power of her words to stand up for women’s rights and combat slavery. You’ll find this sculpture near the Thurgood Marshall College on the UCSD campus.

Sojourner Truth Statue
UCSD Campus
9500 Gilman Dr., La Jolla

Julian Hotel (originally Hotel Robinson)

Hotel Robinson was built in 1897 by freed slave Albert Robinson, who came to California to start a new life. This is one of the first Black-owned businesses in San Diego County and is now part of the National Register of Historic Places. Today it continues as a hotel now called the Julian Gold Rush Hotel and has been authentically restored to provide an ambiance of the history. This is the oldest continuously operating hotel in Southern California.

Julian Hotel
2032 Main St., Julian
800-734-5854
Online: julianhotel.com

African Museum (Casa del Rey Moro)

Learn about African world history with a special focus on African-Spanish, African-Mexican and African-American heritage. You’ll find charts, timelines, carvings, weavings and more relics from ancient, colonial and current periods. There are study guides that overlap the California public school’s framework to better understand African cultural history and its impact throughout the world. The bookstore has a lot of books featuring San Diego Black pioneers and local Black history. When the museum opens up again you may even get to meet Congo, the African-Grey parrot.

African Museum - Casa del Rey Moro
2471 Congress St., Old Town
619-220-0022
Online: africanmuseumsandiego.com

Malcolm X Library and Performing Arts Center

Schedule your library book pick-up here and you can learn and read about Malcolm X. You’ll find a large statue of the civil rights leader that’s sure to spark a discussion with your kids about what he stands for. Librarians can help you choose something that’s just right for your kids to read from their Special Collection of African Diaspora books, newspapers and magazines. It also features an African American Genealogy section if you have roots in your family to research. This library branch serves the largely African-American communities in this neighborhood and it was designed to serve as a cultural institution for the community with its performing arts and cultural center. The library is currently open for limited services.

Malcolm X Library
5148 Market St., Valencia Park
619-527-3405
Online: sandiego.gov/public-library

San Diego History Center

Search the new “Celebrate: Black History & Heritage” online exhibit at the San Diego History Center. It starts back in 1798 with their collection of historical documents and photos that record African American history in San Diego. This is a dynamic unfolding exhibition that’s not complete without on-going community involvement and "will be an ever-evolving exhibit."

San Diego History Center
1649 El Prado, Balboa Park
619-232-6203
Online: sandiegohistory.org

Gaslamp Quarter

Walk where the first African Americans lived and worked in San Diego and see how they helped shape the city. The first Black-owned businesses started along Market Street in the Gaslamp Quarter with hotels, a barber shop, a candy & sundries shop and a laundry service, among others. One of the most well known was the Douglas Hotel in 1920 (no longer there). It offered the first desegregated gathering place for black and white people for lodging, dining, dancing and entertainment. Famed Black jazz musicians like Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong and Billie Holiday would play there often.

Gaslamp Quarter
Between Broadway - K Streets
and Fourth - Sixth Streets
Downtown

––Bonnie Taylor

featured image via Bonnie Taylor

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This Larger Than Life Mister Rogers Monument is Exactly What the World Needs

by Sarah ShebekOctober 29, 2021

At Rollins College, every day is a beautiful day in the neighborhood. That’s because Fred McFeely Rogers, otherwise known as Mister Rogers, is an alum and the school just unveiled a new sculpture to celebrate. “A Beautiful Day for a Neighbor” is a beautiful 360-degree monument to the goodness of Mister Rogers and it’s exactly what the world needs.

To honor Roger’s legacy, the College commissioned renowned British artist Paul Day to create the detailed piece. It stands over seven feet tall and weighs more than 3,000 pounds, with a final cast in bronze. Mister Rogers appears in his iconic sweater and sneakers, holding his Daniel Tiger puppet and surrounded by children.

“This inspirational sculpture will be a permanent reminder of the ideals and values modeled by Mister Rogers as he set out to make the world a better place,” said Rollins President Grant Cornwell. “This tribute will reinforce the quest for empathy, acceptance and kindness so needed in our society today.”

Rogers transferred to Rollins College from Dartmouth and graduated with distinction in 1951. He majored in music composition and met his wife of over 50 years, Joanne Rogers, on campus. If you decide to make the trip to Rollins to see the impressive sculpture, you can include it in the Mister Rogers Walking Tour that features tributes to his life across campus.

––Sarah Shebek

Featured image courtesy of Scott Cook, Rollins College

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We Got Into the New Avengers Campus Early: Here’s What You Need to Know

by Karly WoodJune 5, 2021

The day has finally come! Avengers Campus at Disney California Adventure is now open!

After a year-long delay due to Covid, the Avengers are ready to assemble at their new home. Red Tricycle got into the new land a day early and got all the details on attractions, character experiences and of course, food. Keep scrolling to see all the details!

The new home of the Marvel Universe superheroes lies on the old site of Bug’s Land, adjacent to Radiator Springs. Guests can enter next to the Guardians of the Galaxy attraction or across from the Grizzly Run waterfalls.

The wide-berthed campus means plenty of space to oogle at the hundreds of tiny details and catch a prime view of Spider-Man literally swinging around, not to mention the Quin jet atop HQ.

The sprawling campus also means plenty of options for interacting with your fave Marvel character. While health and safety protocols are still very much in place, and you may not actually get a hug from Loki, you can still spy plenty of heroes at HQ, the Sanctum or hanging around the Worldwide Engineering Brigade, known as WEB.

When it comes to attractions, every member of the family will want to snag a spot in the virtual queue for WEB SLINGERS, the brand new ride and the first to feature Spider-Man. Pop on a pair of 3D glasses, then get your webs slinging on this interactive ride where you need to help Peter Parker take down the ever-multiplying Spider Bots!

There are plenty of tasty options for food and drinks at the new campus. For sit-down dining, check out the Pym Tasting Kitchen, where we have personally sampled everything on the menu and can attest: it’s all delicious!

The best part? The oversized portions make it great for sharing. Adults can also get beer, wine and beer cocktails next door at the Pym Tasting Lab, where you can also watch the magic of a reverse tap fill your beer from bottom to top.

There are two additional food carts that offer Shawarma and dessert options, all of which have plenty of Avenger film inspiration.

While the Avengers Campus boasts only one new attraction, the brand new space is the first of its kind to bring the Marvel Universe together. Take your time taking in all the detail, enjoying the best food the resort has to offer and getting as close as possible to your heroes.

Top three things parents with younger kiddos need to know?

Wear lots of sunscreen. Since the campus is on the newer side, you won’t find a ton of shade from mature trees. The hot California sun knows no bound on warm days!
Be aware that the vast Marvel universe contains some bad guys. There will be times when scarier characters like Taskmaster will battle your heroes, which could be a little dramatic.
WEB SLINGERS will operate like Rise of the Resistance, where guests must use the Disneyland app to get a spot in a boarding group. No boarding group = no riding! Be sure to try for a spot at 7 a.m. and 12 p.m.

Whenever you get the chance to visit, tell the Avengers we said hi!

––Karly Wood

All photos: Karly Wood for Red Tricycle

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by Karly WoodJune 2, 2021

After a year-long delay, Avengers Campus at Disney California Adventure is finally opening! Before the land officially opens to the public on Jun. 4, you can get a sneak peak at the opening ceremony today.

Tune in at 8:15 pm PT tonight, Jun. 2 for a unique glimpse at the campus, in addition to special guests turning out for the big day. You can view on YouTube, Disneyland’s Facebook and Twitter pages and the Disney Parks Blog Facebook and Twitter accounts.

photo: Chloe Rice/Disneyland Resort

The ceremony will feature a dedication of the new campus and get everyone excited about joining forces with the Avengers. Parkgoers will soon be able to hang out with their fave heroes, feast on brand new menu items and experience the first ride-through attraction featuring Spider-Man at a Disney park.

Don’t forget to catch the ceremony tonight at 8 p.m. PST!

––Karly Wood

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New Study Shows How Therapy Dogs Impact Kids’ Social Skills

by Erica LoopApril 25, 2021

Recently published research from the University of British Columbia Okanagan campus shows that therapy dogs can help children to build social skills.

The study, which was published in the Journal of Research in Childhood Education, looked at the impact that working with therapy dogs had on 22 children from the Okanagan Boys and Girls Club over the course of six weeks. Researchers utilized therapy animals from the Building Academic Retention through K9s, or BARK program, to learn more about how the children could learn from and with the dogs.

photo: Sam Lion via Pexels

During the six-week program the children were taught new social skills, such as giving directions to other people. Each child practiced their new skill with a therapy dog—and then with the rest of the participant group. Following practice with the dogs and the other children, the participants then tried out their new skills with university students.

Dr. John-Tyler Binfet, associate professor in the School of Education and director of BARK, said of the program, “Therapy dogs are often able to reach children and facilitate their growth in surprising ways. We saw evidence of this in the social skills of children when they were paired with a therapy dog.”

Researcher and master’s student in the School of Education, Nicole Harris, said, “Findings from our observations suggested that canine-assisted social and emotional learning initiatives can provide unique advantages. Our team saw that by interacting with the therapy dogs, the children’s moods improved and their engagement in their lessons increased.”

After the program ended, Harris interviewed eight of the children. The researcher found that each child felt the social skills training program was enjoyable. The children also said the dogs were a meaningful part of the training program.

Love pets as much as we do?

Tinybeans, the app that allows you to upload and share photos and videos of your little ones with anyone you choose and no one you don’t, has teamed up with Hill's Pet Nutrition to allow users to add a pet! You can create a profile for your four-legged friend, share their photos and videos, receive milestone markers for them and see recommended articles based on your pet’s age and stage.

Up for a challenge? Create a pet profile today, and see if you can add a new memory each day this month. Your furball will love the added attention, and you'll love the fun photos you can look back on!

––Erica Loop

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

by Maria ChambersApril 22, 2021

On your mark. Get set. Go! Race season has begun and sprinting to the finish line is not just for grown-ups. You’ll find a host of fun runs and charity walks in Chicago for families looking to exercise together. We laced up our sneaks and set out to find the best, here’s a rundown of our favorite ways to close your Apple Watch fitness rings in 2022.

ONGOING

‘Go Runs
Park Districts and Chicago Area Runners Association have paired up to provide weekly timed runs. Make the runs a weekly event to explore new areas of Chicago while staying fit with your family. Strollers are welcome, so no baby gets left behind. Saturdays during spring & summer; Parks throughout Chicago. More info.

APRIL

Bunny Rock 5K & Egg Hunt
Hop, skip and run for a great cause. You'll support the Red Door Animal Shelter while your gang runs or walks through this bunny-filled 5K. Afterwards, your candy lovers won’t want to miss the massive Egg Dash with 3,000 eggs. Apr. 16; Montrose Harbor, 601 W. Montrose Harbor, Uptown. More info.

Champion of Trees 10K at Morton Arboretum
Enjoy the first signs of spring on a challenging course with rolling terrain. After the run, stay for a complimentary beer, live music and free admission to the Arboretum. Apr. 23; Morton Arboretum, 4100 IL-53, Lisle. More info.

Best Buddies Friendship Walk at Soldier Field
Walk, support and celebrate best buddies at the Best Buddies Friendship Walk. The Friendship Walk is the number one walk in the country raising awareness and funds to support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Apr. 23; Soldier Field, 1410 Special Olympics Dr., Near Southside. More info.

2K Glow RunWalk
This 1.25-mile nighttime fun run featuring black bubble lights and color stations is not to be missed. Enjoy a rockin’ glow party with a DJ before and after the race. Maximize your glow by wearing as much white or neon as possible. Apr. 23; Ackerman Park, 800 S. Charles Rd., Glen Ellyn. More info.

Earth Day Run at Brookfield Zoo
Lace-up for the Earth Day Run – A Run for the Planet. This non-competitive 2.2 mile “fun run” through the twist and turns of Brookfield Zoo takes place during pre-park hours and is set up for all ages. Apr. 24; Brookfield Zoo, 3300 Golf Rd., Brookfield. More info.

JUNE

The Color Run 5K
Wear your whitest clothes because at every kilometer, you'll be doused from head to toe with colored powder. The fest at the end with music, dancing, activity booths, more color throws and photo opps will keep the whole family entertained. Jun. 4; Soldier Field, 1410 Special Olympics Dr., Near Southside. More info.

Cosley Zoo Run for the Animals
The Cosley Zoo Run for the Animals 5K, 10K & Kids’ 1/2 mile raises funds for the animals at Cosley Zoo as well as exhibit development projects, public programs and conservation projects. Jun. 4; Memorial Park, 208 W. Union Ave., Wheaton. More info.

Run for the Zoo
Run for the Zoo is an annual highlight on the Chicago running calendar and helps keep admission free, 365 days a year. The Kids' Course offers a more playful way for kids ages 3-8 to interact with the natural world. Jun. 5-13; Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St., Lincoln Park; More info.

Move for the Kids Virtual 5K
Move for the Kids is a 3-mile walk and rally honoring the important work of Lurie's Children's Hospital. Jun. 12; Soldier Field, 1410 Special Olympics Dr., Near Southside. More info.

Lambs Farm Fun & Fit Family Day
This fun, family-oriented 5K fun run or 2-mile walk benefits Lambs Farm's programs and services that help adults with developmental disabilities. Stay afterward for post-run/walk refreshments, games and activities. Jun. 18; Lames Farm, 14245 W. Rockland, Libertyville. More info.

Outrun the Cops and Walk for Kids
Have you ever wondered if you could outrun the cops? Now's your chance to test your theories . . . with zero consequences. Most of this 10K or 5K run is along the scenic Des Plaines River Trail and you'll attempt to finish before the police. At the end, take photos with officers and squad cars. Jun. 25; Gurnee Police Station, 100 O'Plaine Rd., Gurnee. More info.

JULY

A Safe Haven Virtual 5k Run/Walk
This run/walk and kids’ dash, benefiting A Safe Haven social service agency, supports numerous housing, job placement/training and other programs for the homeless and less fortunate. Once you cross the finish line, you'll be rewarded with the sweet sound of music. Jul. 10-18; Virtual. More info.

AUGUST

Dim Sum & Then Some: Uptown 5K, 10K and Kids Dash
Proceeds for this run through Uptown benefit the low-income and refugee communities striving to learn English, become a citizen, enrich academically and socially and build a better community through work, entrepreneurship and mutual aid. Aug. 6; 1016 W. Argyle St., Uptown. More details.

TransPerfect Chicago Victory 5K
TransPerfect Chicago is hosting their Victory 5K featuring a scenic race with city views, a silent auction and a post-race celebration with food, beverages and entertainment. All proceeds benefit the V Foundation for Cancer Research. Aug. 11, Diversery Habor, 2601 N. Cannon Dr., Lakeview. More details.

Stan's Donut Run
Grab your donut-lovin’ friends and register for the 2022 Stan’s Donut Race! Join in for a 5K and Kids Dash at Montrose Harbor or participate virtually. Stan's Donut Race is proud to partner with Greater Chicago Food Depository as this year's beneficiary charity. Aug. 13; Soldier Field, 1410 Special Olympics Dr., Near Southside. More info.

Life Time Kids Tri Chicago
Rivaling the largest youth triathlons nationwide, the Life Time Kids Tri Chicago attracts more than 1,000 youth athletes every year! They can swim, bike and run like the grownups, but for shorter distances. Aug. 27; Foster Beach, Foster Avenue & Lake Shore Dr., North Side. More info.

SEPTEMBER

ZERO Prostate Cancer Run/Walk
More than 7,000 men in the Chicagoland area will be diagnosed with prostate cancer this year alone. The ZERO Prostate Cancer Run/Walk brings the community together to raise awareness and funds. This event features a 5K run/walk, 1-mile walk, Kids Superhero Dash for Dad, and virtual Snooze for Dudes program, where you can show your support without attending. Sep. 18; Diversey Harbor, 2601 N. Cannon Dr., Lakeview. More info.

OCTOBER

Walk Now for Autism Speaks
The no-pressure, three-mile walk is taking place in two locations, Soldier Field and Wheaton. The downtown walk takes you leisurely by the Field Museum and Shedd Aquarium and along the lakefront. Strollers—and even Radio Flyer wagons—are welcome.

Tip: Like all races, the environment at an Autism Speaks Walk can become overwhelming for people with sensory sensitivities. The Quiet Room can be used as a safe outlet should your loved one living with autism become overwhelmed. Oct. 22; Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Rd., Wheaton & Oct. 23; Soldier Field, 1410 Museum Campus Dr., Museum Campus. More info.

Susan G. Komen Race for a Cure
The Susan G. Komen Race for the cure is an education and fundraising event that benefits breast cancer. The series of 5K runs and walks raises significant funds for the breast cancer movement, celebrates breast cancer survivorship and honors those who have lost their battle with the disease. Oct. 29; Soldier Field, 1410 Special Olympics Dr., Near Southside. More info.

NOVEMBER

Reindeer Run at Brookfield Zoo
Grab your glow sticks and running shoes and join Reindeer Run at Brookfield Zoo. With a two-mile course entirely within Brookfield Zoo, you and your family can "fun run" and be the first to see the zoo all decked out in lights for its Holiday Magic! Nov. 19; Brookfield Zoo, 3300 Golf Rd., Brookfield. More info.

— Maria Chambers

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Disneyland Resort Announces Opening Date for Avengers Campus

by Karly WoodApril 9, 2021

The year-long closure of California theme parks is almost over and Disney is celebrating in a big way: by opening the long-awaited Avengers Campus.

Get ready to make your reservation for this summer, because the Avengers will finally assemble at their new home on Jun. 4, 2021! The new land is located within the Disney California Adventure theme park and will welcome guests to live out their superhero dreams.

Ken Potrock, president, Disneyland Resort shares “We are so excited to soon welcome our guests to Avengers Campus, our first land dedicated to Super Heroes. Here, our cast members will unite to help guests of all ages find their super powers and create special memories.”

Avengers Campus will unite “Earth’s Mightiest Heroes,” and inspire guests to join them. Park goers will be able to sling webs with Spider-Man, taste-test food and drinks and shop exciting new merchandise.

You can read all about the new campus from our behind-the-scenes visit to the campus last year.

Head to Disneyland News to see even more details and learn about the new reservation system the California resorts will be implementing to ensure safe visits for all.

––Karly Wood

All photos: Courtesy of Disney

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Disneyland to Reopen Apr. 30 & These Are the Details

by Karly WoodMarch 21, 2021

After a long year of closure, Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure Park are finally reopening. The resorts announced they would both welcome guests beginning Apr. 30, with limited capacity.

Guests will need to adjust to some big changes, including a new reservation system and enhanced safety measures, but the magic has definitely returned. Keep reading to get all the details before you book your trip.

photo: Joshua Sudock/Disneyland Resort

Due to California regulations, theme park capacity will be significantly limited. In response, Disneyland Resort will manage attendance through a new theme park reservation system that requires all guests to have a reservation beforehand.

To get in, you’ll need both a park reservation and valid admission for the same park on the same date. These reservations will be limited and for now, only for California residents. There will be more detailed info available on the new system in the coming weeks.

photo: Disneyland Resort

Once in the park, you’ll be able to experience all the attractions and food you love––with a few changes. For now, experiences like parades that draw large crowds will return at a later time. Avengers Campus will open later this year and Disney highly recommends using the Disneyland app for mobile ordering of food and drinks.

Not only will the amusement parks open their gates wide, but the Hotels of Disneyland Resort will also be welcoming park-goers starting Apr. 29, with a phased reopening starting with Disney’s Grand Californians Hotel & Spa. Disney Vacation Club Villas at Disney’s Grand Californian Hotel & Spa will plan to reopen May 2 and Disney’s Paradise Pier Hotel and the Disneyland Hotel will reopen at a later date.

If you are staying at a Disneyland Resort hotel, make sure you still make those theme park reservations! A hotel stay does not guarantee a park reservation and hotel capacity will be limited.

Stay up to date with all the news leading up to the big reopening of Disneyland and Disney California Adventure at the Disney Parks Blog.

––Karly Wood

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Will You Cast the Stone That Will Creates the Ripple of Change?

By Shannon Gainey

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

February 25, 2021

Photo: Adventures in Autism with Murphy

Different not less. Let those words sink in for a moment. This small phrase has a large meaning in the autism community. For some, including myself, it has become a mantra, a mission if you will. I share our story simply so you can see this phrase lived out in real-time. Our journey may look and be different, but it is not less in any way, and never will it be.

Unfortunately, there are people who see this phrase and add the word “and” to it: “Different AND less.” They may not say it out loud, but their actions speak louder than words. And the story below is an unfortunate example of this. As a special needs parent, one of the biggest things I worried about at the beginning of this journey was if my child would be accepted for who he is. Will he have friends? Will people see him, the true him, even in the peak of our hard? Or will he be judged? Given up on? Labeled? I was lucky enough for that worry to be put right to bed because from the first moment my son’s therapies started, I knew my son was accepted. And man, did I sleep easier at night!

For the past two years, I’ve been lucky enough to live in this wonderful bubble—where acceptance is given and not earned. Where judgment ceases to exist. Where support is given freely even in the hardest of times. But my days in this wonderful bubble are quickly coming to end. As you continue on this journey, the inevitable happens, and the time comes for you to have to leave your safe space, your little bubble. You come to terms with having to leave the place and the people that love your child the most. The only place besides your village that understands the phrase “Different not less.”

Many parents start to lose that sleep again. All of that worry and those questions of acceptance that you asked yourself at the beginning of the journey start to creep back. And unfortunately, it’s because you hear and see stories like this below. People that should be a parent and child’s safe space, end up treating a child less because they are different. The story below happened in a friend’s own backyard. It tells a story that we as a special needs community wished was fictional, but know all too well exist and is most times even covered up. In this incident, a child’s aide stapled a piece of paper to the child’s head to serve as a reminder for the child to bring his water bottle to school. Yes, unfortunately, you read that correctly. What’s even worse is that when the mother brought this to the school’s attention, it was downplayed. Statements made as if, even true would make this situation okay: The paper was stapled to the child’s hair, not his head. The aide has had a clean record up until this point. There was no “intent to harm.” The aide wasn’t even fired, just written up and moved to a different classroom. It’s these incidents that make me realize that special needs individuals are seen as different and less. And that is truly heartbreaking.

I myself am a licensed Cosmetology Educator. Although I teach adults, the goal as a campus is to create a safe space for all our students. Backgrounds may be different, lifest‌yles may be different, learner types may be different, but what we all share in common is our love for the beauty industry. I would like to think that the same mindset would be true for teachers, school administrators, and aides but unfortunately, it seems we are hearing more and more of incidents like this happening.

So I ask you: When is enough going to be enough? When are people that treat special needs individuals less than going to be held accountable before a mom has to lose it on the entire school system? But more importantly, when are people going to start speaking up when they see someone that is different treated less? How many times does someone have to be made fun of or treated poorly before you say enough is enough? When do you draw the line? The special needs community needs everyone’s help when it comes to this.

Let’s be honest, the world needs everyone’s help when it comes to this. I don’t know about you, but the world my kids live in now is scary. It’s filled with hate and judgment and people thinking their way is the right way. Do you know one thing that will always be right? Treating everyone with respect and dignity. Special needs or not. And it seems like these days, this is not even something everyone can agree on. So until then, I’ll keep using my voice, I’ll stand side by side with the moms that are made out to look crazy because they demand their kids be treated equally, and I’ll keep speaking up when I witness different people being treated as less.

I’ll leave with this quote from Mother Teresa: “I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the waters to create many ripples.” Are you brave enough to cast that stone when you see someone that is different treated less? As a mother of a special needs child, I hope that you can be. I need you to be. Because those ripples you create can positively impact our world. And I know so many brave individuals that do their best every day to navigate a world not made for them. The least we can do is be that stone for them. Create those ripples. That’s what I intend to do. I’ll continue to cast stones. I’ll continue to make ripples. And my hope is that one day, with your help, those ripples can turn into waves.

This post originally appeared on Adventures in Autism with Murphy.

Shannon Gainey

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

Shannon is a proud boy mom, Hairstylist, and passionate Autism Advocate. She lives in New Orleans, Louisiana with her two sons Murphy (5) and Merrick (2). Murphy was diagnosed with Autism at the age of 3. Follow her family as they journey through Autism together on Adventures in Autism with Murphy Facebook and Instagram page.

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