29 Unique Subscription Boxes for Kids

by Kristina MoyApril 4, 2022

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Shopping for kids can be a struggle, especially when you’re trying to be creative and avoid the toy aisle for birthdays and other special occasions. But what if they could get something new and fun every month? That’s where a subscription box or service comes in. From celebrating women who’ve helped change our world to learning their way around the kitchen and exploring new worlds, scroll down to see our favorite subscription services for kids for any time of year.

Alltruists

Alltruists' subscription box isn't just an activity, it's a carefully curated program of at-home volunteer and giving projects. Using creativity and play, each eco-friendly box helps kids understand social and environmental topics and comes with conversation guides for parents, a donation experience, projects and empathy-building activities. Boxes include important topics like homelessness, clean water, bees and hunger.

Cost: $55+ per month

Subscribe here.

I'm the Chef, Too

We love this kit because it combines science with cooking! Each adventure kit is filled with a recipe, pre-measured dry ingredients and 2-3 STEAM-based projects that are all theme related. Uncover a new adventure and learning experience every time! In the Galaxy Donuts kit, you'll learn about the constellations and how to calculate the weight of planets.

Cost: $38.95

Subscribe here.

The Play Kits for Toddlers by Lovevery

Lovevery’s new Toddler Play Kits are an expansion of its highly praised subscription box service. Previously available for infants ages 0-12 months, Toddler Play Kits are designed for a child's second year of life. Expertly designed to foster brain development and help advance cognitive development, each Toddler Play Kit includes science-backed, sustainably produced play products and activities toddlers want and require for brain development, at exactly the right time. For parents, the Play Kits include need-to-know guidance in the form of The Play Guides—mini books that walk parents through the "how tos” of making the most of play time with their children, backed by all the research parents often don’t have the time to read. Unlike Baby Play Kits, which are shipped every other month, Toddler Play Kits ship every three months with fuller boxes.

Cost: Starting at $36 per month.

Subscribe here.

YearCheer

Deliver some holiday cheer with a gift box from YearCheer! This fun subscription box offers holiday decorations and more that come right to your door. Targeted for kids ages 4-10, YearCheer's Halloween box came packed with fun like a haunted village to build and set up on your table, spider garland, spooky sounds noisemaker and more. There was even a ghost-shaped cookie cutter and instructions on how to create a boo box for your friends. Tying it all together was a favorite Halloween book, Room on the Broom. Available in single-month and longer subscriptions as well as non-recurring giftable options.

Cost: $54.95/month

Subscribe here.

Cdrop Subscription Box

If your tween is obsessed with everything Claire's, this is the gift for them. Choose a one-time or monthly subscription and they'll get surprise glam delivered right to their door.

Cost: $32/month

Subscribe here.

We Craft Box

We Craft Box is an award-winning monthly kids craft kit for kids ages 3-9. With a themed story, 4-5 coordinating crafts, easy-to-follow photo directions, and all materials sent right to your door, the box can be shared between two children. You'll especially love the themed holiday boxes!

Cost: $34.99/month

Subscribe here.

Early Moments Book Subscription

Get your three favorite Dr. Seuss™ & His Friends books for just $3, delivered right to your door. From The Cat in the Hat to P.D. Eastman's classic Are You My Mother? Dr. Seuss™ & His Friends offers sturdy, hardcover books they'll read again and again. Start out by building your welcome package of the first three books. After that, you'll get three books shipped to your door, each month. You’re in control: you can pause, skip, change shipping frequency or cancel anytime. You can even preview your three books online and add or replace books before they ship!

Subscribe here.

MEL Kids

We love this subscription box for kids ages 5-9 and know you will too! You'll get a new science kit every month to learn about scientific topics like pressure, immiscible liquids, strength and jet propulsion. Download the AR app to get even more in-depth info on your project. Cancel your subscription at any time.

Cost: $34.90

Subscribe here

Just Right Reader

Want your kiddos to experience the ultimate joy of reading? The Just Right Reader subscription box combines entertainment and education in the perfect way. Kids will receive books specifically selected for them alongside items like superhero outfits, funny glasses, necklaces, laser reading pointers, reading finger buddies, stamps, stickers and more to get them amped up to read.

Cost: Starting at $30/mo

Subscribe here.

Rowan

Little fashionistas will love Rowan's earring subscription box. Every month, littles will get a pair of nickel-free, hypoallergenic earrings designed in Brooklyn, NY with your choice of Gold Vermeil or Sterling Silver. In addition, every month your box comes with a thought-provoking mindfulness card to inspire conversation and a surprise accessory. You can also choose to upgrade your first box and snag a signature Rowan accessories bundle which includes an acrylic earring stand, satin travel pouch, journal, pen and a surprise extra pair of earrings while supplies last.

Cost: Starting at $25/mo

Subscribe here.

Play On! from Bay Area Children's Theater Company

The brainchild of Bay Area Children's Theater Company, Play On! is an audio musical adventure kit for kids. There are two different boxes: Discover (0-5) and Adventure (5-10), and the boxes make it easier for BACT to share their award-winning programming with kids all over the U.S. during COVID and beyond. Every month, kids get everything they need to bring the magic of theater to their own homes; the most unique aspect is the audio elements that can be unlocked once the box arrives. Kids can use the materials to perform again and again. Opt for a single kit or a monthly subscription.

Cost: $40 for a single box, $120 for a year's subscription.

Subscribe here.

Bubbles & Joy

For the kiddos who love to lounge in the tub, this monthly subscription is a great gift idea. Each box contains goodies like waterproof books, bath bombs, activities, bath crayons and more. It's basically a bath party in a box!

Cost: $39

Subscribe here.

Atlas Book Club

What started as a family book club focused on literature about or from African countries has grown into a monthly book box that focuses on globally diverse books and learning materials for kids. Founder Bunmi Emenanjo says "Studies have shown that kids who are exposed to diverse cultures cultivate a global awareness that makes them more empathetic and compassionate. I firmly believe that such exposure leads them to not just accept cultures different from their own, but to celebrate them!"

There are four levels for different readers ranging from picture books to young adult novels. In addition to the books, subscribers will also get fact cards, a postcard, a culturally relevant souvenir and more. You can even purchase some of the previous month's boxes if they are available.

Cost: $40 for one month

Subscribe here.

InKidZ

After she saw how travel (especially international) helps parents to empower their kids with cultural awareness, founder Dr. Zabina Bhasin—child psychiatrist and mom of two—came up with the idea for InKidZ. Focused on countries like Turkey, Guatemala or Australia, each box has been carefully curated by Bhasin and a few parent ambassadors (thing puzzles, jewelry, activity sheets, stickers, crayons and more), and each one strives to educate kids about various global cultures in a thought-provoking way. The “In the Know” cards are especially fun. Similar to trivia cards, they’re great for the car or family dinners. Topics range from how to speak in Turkish to knowing milestones made by iconic Black Americans.

Cost: Choose between bi-monthly ($49 for one kid, $59 for siblings) or annual ($270 for one kid, $300 for siblings, six boxes a year).

Subscribe here.

A Kids Book About Box

Founded by a Black CEO and father of six who sought to create nonfiction books covering topics that his kids were ready to discuss, A Kids Book About Box includes best-selling and popular titles like A Kids Book About Gratitude, A Kids Book About Racism, A Kids Book About Empathy, and A Kids Book About Belonging. Other books touch on subjects like bullying, creativity, disabilities, voting and more. Even better, A Kids Book About celebrates diverse authors who write stories influenced by their own experiences, which gives readers access to all kinds of voices.

Cost: Starting at $20/book, and monthly subscriptions start at $17

Subscribe here.

Baketivity

Baketivity boxes are sure to put a smile on your little baker's face! Each themed box comes with pre-measured ingredients, kid-friendly instructions, colorful lessons and games to play while your treats bake and a shopping list if you need to add anything extra. All the included ingredients are vacuum-packed fresh, and when you sign up for a subscription, your kiddo will get a Baketivity hat and apron! The newest kit is the limited-edition Positivity Cookie Kit Project, which aims to encourage conversations about diversity and equality, and there are tons of other baking kits, like whoopie pies, pull-apart cupcakes, muffins, cinnamon buns, cookies, cake pops and bagels. You can buy a one-time kit or subscribe to receive one on a monthly basis.

Subscribe here.

Sago Mini Box

From the creative genius of Sago Mini comes the new Sago Mini Box subscription, a kit that creates hands-on experiences for kids ages 3-5. Every month, subscribers will receive a new box that encourages open-ended play and make and play activities that are easy to assemble. In addition to the box and three themed activities, kids will receive a letter from a Sago Mini character! Sago keeps sustainability at the forefront, with all paper materials constructed from recycled content or sourced from the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC Certified).

Cost: $19 per month, or $15 per month when you subscribe annually

Subscribe here.

GIRLS CAN! CRATE

GIRLS CAN! CRATE is a new subscription box that celebrates the lives of women who've changed our world. From Bessie Coleman and Dr. Irene Uchida to Frida Kahlo, Marie Curie, Madam CJ Walker and Dorothea Lange, GIRLS CAN! CRATE celebrates the lives and stories of diverse women across race, profession and the world so that every girl who picks up a crate will see something of herself reflected in her GIRLS CAN! experience. Choose between two monthly offerings: the original GIRLS CAN! CRATE which includes a 20-page activity book, two or three STEAM activities, a collectible button, tote bag and tips for grown-ups related to the month's featured lady's trait; or the mini-mailer which is a smaller version of the original GIRLS CAN! CRATE. All aspects of the GIRLS CAN! experience, from start to finish, are curated by its all-female owned and operated company.

Cost: Crate subscriptions start at $35 per month. Mini-mailers start at $18.50 per month.

Subscribe here.

Little Global Citizens

Little Global Citizens is a subscription box that looks to take children (ages 4-10) on a new adventure around the world every other month, focusing on the culture and the people of a new country. Each box brings to life a new country through carefully curated books, cultural activities in the form of games, puzzles and quizzes, interactive crafts, language and recipes for a themed dinner party night. The brand uses their Montessori Educator to curate each box. The founder of LGC, Akeelah Kuraishi, says that the ultimate mission of Little Global Citizen is to foster open-mindedness, compassion and global awareness.

Cost: $40 for a bi-monthly subscription; $50 if you want to add an additional set of craft and activity materials for a sibling.

Subscribe here.

America’s Test Kitchen Kids Young Chefs Club

Kids who love cooking and STEM learning will love this new subscription box from America’s Test Kitchen Kids. The Young Chefs’ Club box is jam-packed with kid-tested, kid-approved recipes, science experiments, creative items (think: DIY board games, tortilla warmers, special sprinkles) and more. Designed to inspire a new generation of empowered cooks, engaged eaters and curious experimenters, each box contains recipes that have been tested by over 5,000 kids in the US and received at least an 80% approval rating. Each month, kids will receive a box based on a theme, ranging from specific ingredients such as cheese or bread, to cooking techniques like cake decorating, to scientific subjects centered around texture or molecular gastronomy. The projects range from 15 minutes to a few hours, depending on the child's age and ability, and grocery lists are emailed before the boxes arrive. The Young Chefs Club is designed for kids ages 5 & up.

Good to know: Members get access to America’s Test Kitchen Kids' extensive digital library of recipes, experiments, videos, fun food trivia and more.

Cost: Starting at $20 per month for a 12-month subscription.

Subscribe here.

KiwiCo Panda Crate

KiwiCo, a parent fave for STEM, STEAM, science and art subscription kits for kids, recently launched its Panda Crate line designed specifically for babies and toddlers. Made in partnership with researchers at Seattle Children’s Hospital, KiwiCo ensures that all the products and information delivered in its crates are perfectly suited for a child’s developing brain. Plus, a portion of every Panda Crate purchase is donated toward child development research. Designed to grow with baby's development, the Panda Line crates are broken up into five separate age bands–delivering an age and stage-appropriate crate every other month as baby grows over two years. Each crate in the subscription line is billed and delivered every three months, and you can easily adjust the timing or cancel anytime.

Cost: Starts at $15.50 per month for two year’s worth of Panda Crates (12 shipments).

Subscribe here.

Monti Kids

Based on the world-renowned 0-3 Montessori curriculum, Monti Kids provides the only at-home Montessori toy program for babies and toddlers ranging in age from birth to 36 months. The subscription-based program was founded with the mission of helping parents support their babies during the most critical years of development. With a Monti Kids subscription, Montessori toy curriculum is delivered every three months with exactly the right learning materials needed at each developmental stage. Each Monti Kids box also includes guides for parents which consist of short videos and articles on how to introduce and use the materials with their baby–also great for caregivers and grandparents! Choose from eight different levels.

Good to know: Before your toys arrive, you’ll have access to the Monti Kids Learning Center, packed with instructional videos, research and tips.

Cost: $297 approximately every three months.

Subscribe here.

Cook + Play from Raddish

You know and love Raddish because it takes the guesswork and stress out of teaching kids to cook. It also provides a bonding, interactive and tasty adventure for families to share. Each month features a new exciting theme, from "Edible Experiments" to "Ticket to Japan." Kits include a set of three laminated and illustrated recipe cards with easy-to-follow instructions and tips to develop safe and smart kitchen techniques. Kids also receive a kitchen tool, craft, experiment or foodie game, monthly collectibles in the form of Table Talk conversation starter cards and a colorful apron patch. And now, your preschooler can get in on the action, with the Cook + Play Kit. Kids can mix, mash and stir as they whip up 123 Blueberry Muffins, ABC Chips and Guac and Rainbow Pasta Salad while learning the alphabet, counting, colors, measuring and even setting the table.

Good to know: Raddish includes a digital and printed grocery checklist, but does not include the actual food. Raddish also has an expansive library of free content from bonus recipes to activities and playlists and offers dietary modifications for all recipes.

Cost: $24 per month

Subscribe here.

Izzy & Liv Brown Sugar Box for Little Girls & Tween Girls

Lifestyle brand Izzy & Liv recently launched a version of their Brown Sugar Box for kids and teens. Both the Kids Box (for ages 4-8) and Tweens Box (for ages 9-14) are similar to the adult boxes where even though the items will be a mystery until opened, everything included will equal a retail value of at least $100. The boxes are designed with African American girls in mind, with culturally inspired items featured in every box. You'll get at least one Izzy & Liv shirt and other sweet things made with the brown sugar girl in mind. Little girls might get school supplies, hair accessories and books, while tweens can expect to get beauty products, lunch totes and even pillow covers.

Cost: If you sign up now, you'll lock in a special $45 (plus shipping) quarterly rate. It'll go to $55 (plus shipping) soon.

Subscribe here.

Mail Order Mysteries

Mail Order Mysteries are a tech-free creative experience that unfolds through a series of six weekly installments. The letters are personalized to kids from the characters in the stories. There are spies, pirates, knights, librarians, detectives, dragons and trolls, and when these characters ask for help with a top-secret mission, the kids become key characters themselves. One of their latest mysterious launches is the Case of the Missing Bigfoot, perfect for ages 9 & up, and is a classic whodunit set in an old mansion before a big dinner is about to begin. The lights go out, and when they come back on, the safe is open and empty. Uh oh. This box comes with everything to help solve the crime, including crime scene photos, suspect cards, notebooks, suspect board, interview transcripts and more.

Cost: $87 for a six-week subscription containing five letter mail envelopes and a final package.

Subscribe here.

Stitch Fix Kids

Style knows no age, so why not encourage their love of fashion with Stitch Fix’s personal styling service for kids? Stitch Fix has recently been reinventing the shopping experience for adults as well as expanding. They now offer sizes 2T-14 for kids! Parents can easily manage their kids' profile, and they can work together to create a style profile and set up their delivery. Each Stitch Fix Kid box contains 8-12 pieces of clothing, shoes or accessories, which range in price from $10-$35. A stylist handpicks items based on the style profile. The best part? There’s no pressure to keep anything, and no subscription is required. Simply order Fixes when you like or schedule automatic deliveries. Easy-peasy!

Cost: $20 styling fee that is later applied toward anything purchased.

Subscribe here.

KyndKits

Kids have busy lives these days between school, sports, play dates and activities, but one important lesson they all need to learn is that kindness is key. KyndKits are a way to pair volunteering with the convenience of home delivery. KyndKits is a subscription box filled with new, customizable volunteer activities and acts of kindness delivered to your child’s door each month. These opportunities can range from making cards for Veterans to building care kits for the homeless. The projects support a variety of causes and include everything needed for a meaningful volunteer experience. KyndKit subscriptions are handled online, making sign up and subscription management easy. Packages range from single, one-person kits to large-group kits.

Cost: $19 for one project per month. Up to four KyndKits projects can be ordered per month.

Subscribe here.

Toy Library

So many toys, so little time. Imagine being able to borrow and return new toys, just like books at the library. Well, that’s what mom Christie Jacobs thought when she’d had enough with her kids playing on the iPads too much. With limited space, she didn’t want to keep buying new toys. Instead, she created ToyLibrary, a service that provides unlimited access to over 500 educational toys. "ToyLibrary lets you borrow and play with the newest toys, curated and selected by child development experts so parents always get the best toy for their child,” Jacobs said. "Parents enjoy an uncluttered house, great value and the convenience of free shipping straight to their door." Kids can play with the toys for a month, three months or 12 months, and then just return them in the pre-paid mailer.

Cost: $30 a month for two toys; $20 a month for six toys for three months; $12.50 a month for 24 toys for 12 months.

Subscribe here.

Little Feminist Book Club

Little Feminist book club, which aims to teach kids about gender equality diversity and empathy, now has three age ranges (0-3, 3-7 and 7-9) for their popular book subscription service. Every month, one or two books are carefully hand-selected by a team of educators, librarians and parents, who then create discussion questions and a DIY activity to accompany them.

Cost: Starting at $23 per month.

Subscribe here.

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12 Things from The Honest Company That Make Perfect Gifts

by Gabby CullenDecember 11, 2020

You know and love the diapers from The Honest Company, but did you know there are a ton of other great things made by the wellness brand to discover? The company founded by Jessica Alba has expanded into skincare, sustainable gear and so much more. We’ve rounded up our favorite gifts you can feel good about giving to the whole family, and here’s a bonus: there’s free US shipping on any beauty purchase, and no code is required!

Splish Splash Holiday Gift Set

This gift set includes everything new parents need to make bath time the best time! Plus, they’ll get some of The Honest Co’s best-selling wipes.

Jessica’s Fave Twist Headwrap, Palm Print

If 2020 isn’t the year to invest in chic headwraps, we don’t know what year is! Not to mention, this is a fave of founder Jessica Alba.

Award Winners Kit

This kit includes mascara, a lip crayon and lipstick. Perfect for the beauty lover in your life!

Honest City Backpack

This vegan backpack is actually a diaper bag! There’s even a changing mat tucked away for easy access.

Reusable Magic Silicone Sheet Mask

A mask that you can use again and again? Yes, please!

Hand Sanitizer Spray 4-Pack

Keep your loved ones safe with this four-pack of sanitizer!

Honest Mama Bump Care Kit

Moms-to-be need all the pampering they can get, and this kit is the perfect solution.

Men’s Must-Have Kit

Don’t leave the guy in your life out! This must-have kit has everything to keep skin looking great.

Honest Canvas Pouch

Keep everything you need for on-the-go fixes in this adorable canvas pouch with a geometric pattern.

Sugarfina Bandana Bib

Your new eater will love this sweet bib with an easy magnetic release.

Healthy Child Healthy World

Read all about the steps you can take to create a greener household from The Honest Company co-founder Christopher Gavigan.

Tween Skincare Kit

Get your tween started on a healthy skincare regime with this bundle of washes and moisturizers.

—Gabby Cullen

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Baby Sprinkle Gifts: What to Get the Mom-to-Be Who Has Everything

by Jamie Davis SmithSeptember 22, 2020

Your friend is expecting for the second (or third or fourth) time. What do you get the mom-to-be who already has all the baby basics? Read on to find some great gifts even the most experienced expectant mom will appreciate.

1. Gift Certificate for Babysitting
More kids means Mom will soon have even less time for herself than she had before. Give her a gift she will think is priceless: a few hours to herself. Prepay a sitter you know she has used before or one you know and trust. Encourage the mom-to-be not to wait to use the sitter and to use the time to treat herself, or just to take a nap, shower by herself, answer emails or decompress without having to worry about anyone else’s needs for an hour or two.

photo: Joolz

2. Upgraded Stroller
Chances are the mom-to-be already has just about everything she needs, but she may not have everything she wants. A baby sprinkle is the perfect time to pamper her with an upgrade in gear. Although these may come with a big price tag, guests can chip in to buy a group gift she’ll love, like a new strolle. For the mama who needs a double stroller, you can’t go wrong with the easy-to-push Britax B-Lively Double Stroller ($429.99), which has all the bells and whistles like extra storage, independently reclining seats and a quick fold that makes it easy to take this stroller on the go. Moms who need a single stroller will adore one of the best luxury strollers on the market. The Joolz Hub ($699) pushes easily even over uneven sidewalks, can be maneuvered with one hand, has six different positions for baby’s comfort, and sports an extra-large canopy. It can accommodate kids up to 50 pounds so it will last through the preschool years. Plus, its head-turning looks will make mom happy every time she goes for a stroll.

photo: Paperclip

3. A Dream Diaper Bag
A diaper bag may be a parent’s most used accessory. It goes everywhere the baby goes, from the car to the mall and trips to Grandma’s house. That means every mom should have the diaper bag she deserves. The Paperclip Willow ($199) has a built-in changing station for moms obsessed with cleanliness, pockets galore, and it looks more like a cute backpack than a diaper bag. This is a great splurge for a baby sprinkle group gift. As a bonus, it’s made from recycled material so mom can rest easy knowing she being eco-conscious. Check out more of our favorite diaper bags.

photo: Uber Appliance

4. Time-Saving Gadget She Didn’t Know She Needed
Find something clever that will make mom’s life a lot easier, like the Uber Mini Fridge ($66.04). This fridge is even smaller than the one she had in her dorm room, but it’s the perfect size for everything from storing pumped milk to keeping some cold water (or something more grown-up) in the nursery. This mini fridge can even be used in the car with the included car charger, making it an ideal choice for working moms who pump at the office. Or, she might not realize she needs the magic of an infrared thermometer, like this one from TruMed ($69.99) that will take her children’s temperature in no time flat without the need to hold a thermometer under baby’s arm or place it somewhere even less pleasant.

For something practical that will save her time well through the toddler years, treat her to a 3-in-1 Sterilizer and Dryer by Coral UV ($143.99). With just a touch of a button, this box provides the magic of sterilizing everything from bottles and grimy cell phones to toys that toddlers drop on the ground in 10 minutes flat. Any busy mom will appreciate being able to ditch bleach wipes and boiling water for the ease of dropping just about anything into a child-safe box.

photo: Rock a Box Baby

5. A Personalized Gift
Once the proud parents are on to baby number two or more, the new bundle of joy is bound to get a lot of hand-me-downs. Make sure the new little one has something of their own with a baby box from Rock A Box Baby that can be personalized with a name or monogram. These boxes start at $25, but thanks to the quality of the box and the items inside,it looks much more expensive.

6. A Baby Carrier
A baby carrier may not actually give moms an extra pair of hands, but the right one can feel like it. The Cybex Yema baby carrier ($199.95) is not only stylish, it can be used for newborns through toddler age. It can also be worn on the front, back or side. This carrier is a mix of a structured carrier and wrap that is easy to use. The front has a unique design that is softer in the middle and firmer on the sides, giving baby a snug, secure place to nap and observe the world.

photo: Simply Organic Bamboo

7. Soft Throw Blanket
Chances are that Mom got plenty of baby blankets at her baby shower, but her baby sprinkle is the perfect time to give her a blanket that is big enough for and her babies to snuggle under together. A Simply Organic Bamboo Throw Blanket ($79) is ultra-soft, so it’s gentle enough for baby’s skin but big enough to keep Mom cozy too. Plus, it comes beautifully packaged and tied with a ribbon, so it’s ready to give right out of the box.

photo: Countdown to Mama

8. A Collection of Handy Gifts
This advent calendar-style box for expectant moms keeps on giving after the party is over. Every day for 14 days, the mom-to-be opens one of the drawers in the Countdown to Mama ($185) gift chest to reveal something special for her or the baby. Gifts include a water bottle, rose gold necklace, a nursing cover, washable nursing pads, milestone stickers, lotions and a gender-neutral onesie with matching headband for Mom. The gift trunk comes wrapped in a pretty, reusable bag. This makes a great group gift that is actually fourteen gifts in one.

9. Mommy & Me Pajamas
A Mom & Me Snuggle Trunk from Elephant Organics ($100-$125) is a great gift for the mom who wants something soft and new to wear in the hospital or for those first photos at home. These gift boxes come with matching outfits for Mom & baby, plus some other items of your choice. As a bonus, many styles also come in toddler sizes. That means you can add a pair of PJs so big sibling does not feel left out.

10. Spa Day
Growing a tiny human and carrying it around 24/7 is incredible—and exhausting. Moms-to-be often experience aches in muscles they didn’t even know they had. Make her a little more comfortable by treating her to a prenatal or postnatal massage. While pregnant, some moms also forego things they loved before getting pregnant, like dyeing their hair or getting a manicure. Go in with a group and treat her to a full day of pampering that she can look forward to after the baby is born.

photo: JaneCare

11. At-Home Care Kit
For the mom who can’t, or doesn’t want to, leave the house, you can bring the spa experience to her with a care kit. The PamperHer kit from JaneCare ($59.99) has everything Mom needs to get her through ta tough day with bath bombs, body butter, a stress-relief roll-on, and affirmation cards to remind her she is doing a great job.›

12. Cleaning Service
No new mom has enough time to clean, yet the cleaning must get done. A gift that will leave her speechless is a phone number she can call to arrange for cleaning fairies to come to come to her house and leave it sparkling.

photo: Amazon

13. Kindle Paperwhite
New moms spend a lot of time holding the baby with one arm and unsure what to do with the other arm. The perfect solution is a Kindle Paperwhite that she can hold with one hand and read to her heart’s content. The Kindle Paperwhite is lighter than previous versions and can be read silently in complete darkness, so it’s perfect for not just for late nights with a baby but also with a toddler who absolutely needs Mom to help them fall asleep.

photo: Google

14. Google Nest Hub
The Google Nest Hub is a device that can do everything from play Netflix or lullabies to keep an eye on a sleeping baby or rambunctious older sibling. When all else fails, Mom can ask her Google Nest for ideas on what to make for dinner when she is eating for two or for secrets to getting the baby to sleep. Plus, it’s small enough to move from room to room. The Google Nest can also act as a babysitter for an older sibling who can just ask the device to tell a story or start a round of freeze-tag.

photo: Tim Bish via Unsplash

15. A Night Nurse
No matter how many kids the new mom has already, sleep will undoubtedly remain elusive with a newborn. Give her the gift of one night of uninterrupted sleep with a postnatal night nurse and she will remember your kindness forever. She may decide to have a date night, but chances are greater she will relish in sleeping a solid eight to ten and wake up a new woman.

featured photo: Vidal Balielo via Pexels

5 Classes Expecting Parents Should Take Before Giving Birth

By Shari Stamps

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

September 10, 2020

You’ve probably heard a lot of different things from everyone you know on the internet or in real life about what to do in order to prep for baby. But their birth journey isn’t yours, and their advice might not work for you! Maybe you’re expecting your second or fifth little one so you think you’ve got this covered. But whether you’re a first-time mom or fifth, there are still classes you need to take before giving birth. Here are my top 5 classes you should consider taking before your little one arrives.

1. Postpartum Prep. I’m including this one first because it’s the last class you’d think about taking. This is not Newborn Care or Baby Basics 101. This is not a birthing techniques class. Postpartum prep is a class dedicated to preparing new and new-again parents for what they will face in postpartum and what they need to do while expecting to have plans, meals, care kits, and support in place. Taking a postpartum prep class means there are fewer surprises when it comes to your relationships, your body, and your mental health. It’s essential and goes hand-in-hand with a Postpartum Healing course that is dedicated to nurturing the whole family as they bond with baby.

2. Labor & Birthing Techniques Class. This may have been the one class you expected to see on this list, but sadly many first-time parents miss this class before birth. Attending a birthing technique class significantly reduces possible feelings of regret or trauma from birth. Having a birth doula? Even more. I’m a huge fan of the Hypnobabies Home Study Course—it’s how I was able to achieve my super fast natural birth with my second kiddo after getting the full induction package complete with a catheter at my first birth 6 years earlier. But there are a lot of amazing classes out there (Discover Birth Education Course is another favorite) for you to choose from and you may even want to take a few! One class might focus on comfort measure techniques, while the other focuses solely on your mindset. Find the right balance for your desired experience.

3. Prenatal Exercise. A birthing techniques class can help you to emotionally and mentally prepare for labor and learn great labor positions, but a good prenatal exercise class prepares your body for the birth of your little. Targeted exercises designed with the expecting mother in mind can release tension, open the pelvis, increase blood flow, and strengthen the body for the tough job of labor. Expecting and Empowered is a great prenatal workout program designed by a chiropractor and nurse with the whole body in mind (since it all works together).

4. Lactation Education. I’ve met expecting parents who were adamant about not breastfeeding once the baby arrived, not because of trauma but because they didn’t want to lose that part of their sexuality. But once the baby arrived, they breastfed! Whether you aren’t sure if you want to breastfeed, are afraid you can’t, or are determined that it’s something you’ll do once baby arrives, it’s important to take a class to know what to expect. Your body will produce milk whether you breastfeed or not and you will want to know what your body is going through, why, and how the hormones related to all of this are affecting your whole self.

Most hospitals offer a sort of Breastfeeding 101 class and some birth doulas include this in their client education, but I recommend taking another class by a stand-alone professional who is not affiliated with a specific hospital because they can get into more detail about things and tend to have more up-to-date info that the Lactation Consultants at a hospital might not be able to teach due to policies. I’ve been to several hospital-led classes but learned so much more after becoming a Lactation Educator.

5. Baby Care. Basic baby care classes can be extremely helpful for first-time parents. In this class, you learn how to swaddle, communicate with your baby, general feeding information, and more. Doulas typically cover some of this with you after birth, too.

This post originally appeared on Navigating Parenthood.

Shari Stamps

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

Shari Stamps is the founder of NavigatingParenthood where she shares stories, info, services, and programs for expecting, new and veteran parents. As a mom of three, a freelance writer, postpartum doula, infant massage instructor, and lactation educator she's always learning something new. Join the journey via social at @NavigatingParenthood and @NavigatingPostpartum.

11 Great Toys That Celebrate Disabilities

by Jamie Davis SmithSeptember 7, 2020

It’s no secret that children learn best through play and learning about disabilities is no exception. Fortunately, toy companies from American Girl to LEGO have diversified their lines to be inclusive so that every child can have a playroom that includes toys that are diverse as the children they will meet at the playground. Read on to find out about everything from dolls with Down Syndrome to a play diabetes kit to superheroes you may not have realized were disabled.

A Fully Accessible Schoolhouse

Playmobil knows that all kids should have the chance to go to a school where they can get around easily. This schoolhouse has everything from a working bell to a biology lab. Best of all, this set comes with a student who uses a wheelchair. Thanks to the school's ramp, elevator and accessible bathroom all students at this school can get to all of the classes and have fun with their friends. Kids who use wheelchairs will delight in seeing a school like their own. Able-bodied kids will gain a better understanding of the challenges faced by their disabled peers just by playing school!

Buy it here, $101.60.

The Incredible Blind Superhero

Daredevil lost his vision as a child but in exchange gained the ability to use his other senses with superhuman accuracy making him "The Man Without Fear." Even though Daredevil cannot see, he is an expert in martial arts and a talented lawyer. Thanks to his powers he can defeat the bad guys on the street and in the courtroom even without sight. Some of the best toys for kids are those that show them that disability does not have to limit anyone’s power. A Daredevil figure with his iconic red glasses makes a great addition to any toybox to remind kids that anyone can become a superhero.

Buy it here, $19.87.

Fashionista Barbie with a Prosthetic Leg

Barbie can do anything from becoming a doctor to flying an airplane. Now Barbie is showing kids that she can do all that and more with a prosthetic leg or while using a wheelchair. These Barbies send a powerful message that a disability doesn’t have to stop a child from doing anything want. Because both dolls are part of the Fashionista line these Barbies also prove you can look cute while doing it! Read more about the line here.

LEGO Minifigures

Everyone in LEGO City may be yellow but Lego minifigures come decked out in different clothes and accessories. Some minifigures get around using their legs and some minifigures use wheelchairs. Some are just cute and some, like Darth Vader, Luke Skywalker also have disabilities.

Buy the set here, $72.96.

Doll with Autism

The Loyal Companion Lottie Doll is based on a real child with autism. Just like many autistic kids, this doll likes to wear headphones when the sounds of the world become overwhelming. He also wears a t-shirt with the name of his autistic heroes and has a loyal dog who stays by his side to provide emotional support. Kids who don’t know much about autism can learn more by reading the included pamphlet about the boy who inspired this doll. Kids who are autistic will love playing with a doll who shares their diagnosis. Lottie Dolls also makes other dolls with disabilities, including one with a cochlear implant and the Sinead, a Lottie Doll based on a Little Person who is a writer for British Vogue. These dolls play an important roll in including children of all abilities in play at school and the playground too!

Buy it here, $19.95.

An Inclusive Party Puzzle

Sometimes the best way to normalize disability is to present it simply as one of many ways children can differ from one another. Some are boys and some are girls. Some are blonde and some are brunette. Some walk and some use wheelchairs. The Woodland Party Jigsaw puzzle shows happy children engaged in all kinds of activities regardless of ability. At the party depicted in this puzzle, one adventurous child dresses up like a pirate while another dances with a fox. Among the many children at the party is one who uses a wheelchair happily feeding a deer. It may appear that there is nothing special happening at this inclusive party but that is the beauty of some of the best toys for children—they learn acceptance and tolerance naturally through play.

Buy it here, $27.76.

The First American Girl with a Visible Disability

American Girl is a leader when it comes to making sure every child can have a doll that looks like them from dolls without hair to offering wheelchairs and hearing aids as accessories. American Girl’s 2020 Girl of the Year, Joss, is American Girl’s first doll whose disability is part of her story. Joss is hard of hearing and wears a hearing aid. Her hobbies include surfing and cheer-leading alongside her hearing friends. Joss’s accompanying book explains that while she can do everything her friends can do her disability does pose some challenges, like having to ask her coach to use a microphone. On the other hand, her disability comes with some benefits, such as being able to tune out her annoying brother by removing her hearing aid anytime she wants some peace and quiet. Joss's accessories include items like a Nifty Cheer Backpack Set that anyone who loves cheer-leading would love, which underscores how every child can do with they love if inclusion is supported and valued.

Order Joss here, $110 & up.

Disabled Characters from Across the Galaxy

Some of the characters your child already knows and loves may be disabled. Nemo from Finding Nemo has one fin smaller than the other. Luke Skywalker lost one of his hands in an epic light-saber battle and has used a prosthetic hand ever since. Darth Vader is a quadruple amputee who doesn’t wear a noisy black suit just to be intimidating—it’s actually a complex life support system that helps him breathe and keeps him alive. Make sure your child has some of these popular disabled figures in their toybox. A Darth Vader or Luke Skywalker hyper-real figure that shows all the details and even has removable hands is a great choice. Or, try a plush Nemo that clearly shows the difference in his fins.

Most kids have ten fingers and ten toes. But some kids don't have quite that many and that's okay too! Some kids are missing either because they were born without a limb or because needed one (or more) amputated. The Vermont Teddy Bear Company has been making bears for those with limb loss or limb differences for decades. These bears are just as soft and cuddly as all of the Vermont Teddy Bear Company's other bears. Choosing a bear from the Amputee Collection is a great way to promote the acceptance and inclusion of those with disabilities, even for very young children.

Shop the collection here, $59.99.

Annie the Doll with Down Syndrome:

Dolls are such a popular toy because they always allow kids to have a friend along and gives them the chance to act out all kinds of situations. Annie, made by Selma’s Dolls, is a soft, cuddly doll who happens to have Down Syndrome. Annie comes with a storybook about getting to know kids who are different complete with conversation starters. Whether Annie looks like your child or not she can help make a more inclusive world a reality.

Buy Annie here, $29.99.

American Girl's Wheelchairs, Diabetes Care Kits, Service Dogs & More

American Girl has been a leader in representing all kinds of girls for decades. Girls with disabilities are no exception. American Girl dolls can truly look like children with a range of disabilities. Their accessory line includes a wheelchair, a service dog, a diabetes care kit, glasses, hearing aids, arm braces, asthma and allergy set and more. American Girl also has a doll without hair for kids going through chemotherapy or who have alopecia. These accessories aren't just for dolls that belong to children with disabilities. Every child will benefit from having their dolls use the same equipment their peers with disabilities use every day to help them better understand their friends' experiences.

Shop the collection here.

—Jamie Davis Smith

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Images courtesy retailers

Travel Destinations Ready to Welcome You This Summer

by Kate LowethJune 29, 2020

Spending the last three months cooped up at home makes us all itch for a family vacation, that’s for sure. While we might not be able to fly off to a tropical all-inclusive resort this summer, there are loads of options for family vacations that we can do this summer, like beach trips or road trips to national parks. The options below have plenty of outdoor activities and COVID-19 precautions in place to keep everyone safe. Scroll through for some travel inspiration!

Mendocino, CA

Head north from San Francisco and you'll find the rocky coastline of Mendocino County—the perfect escape from the crowds. With lodging properties, restaurants and tasting rooms open to leisure visitors, a summer visit to Mendocino can be the perfect option for families. Breathe in the fresh, coastal air and spend some time in this beautiful part of Northern California.

What to do: You can't go wrong visiting one of the many beaches along the Mendocino Coast. Favorites include Bowling Ball Beach in Point Arena and Glass Beach in Fort Bragg. Then climb aboard the Skunk Train for a train ride through the redwoods or reserve a two-person railbike for an even more unique experience. Catch-a-Canoe is open for rentals with a reservation system in place to keep interactions with other visitors to a minimum.

Where to stay: If you are looking for a glamping adventure, Mendocino Grove is welcoming guests this summer with reduced occupancy to allow for social distancing. Little River Inn is another great spot for families with one of the best views of the coastline you've seen.

Online: tinybeans.go-vip.net

Hawks Cay Resort - Duck Key, FL

Plenty of social distancing-approved vacation opportunities for families are available at Hawks Cay. The lagoon and the pools are open, guests can paddleboard or take a sunset cruise (space is limited to maintain social distancing), and eat great food outdoors. The Hawks Cay famous Dolphin Trainer for a Day program is also operational. The program includes in-water and dockside activities, and behind-the-scenes educational fun. Space is limited: two to three people ages 10 and over, per day.

COVID-19 update: To keep guests and employees safe, Hawks Cay is taking extensive measures. Face masks are required indoors and outdoors when social distancing is not possible. All spas and outdoor recreational areas, including the basketball courts, are closed at this time, food may be ordered via a contactless system, and intensive room cleaning procedures are in place. You can see all the updates by clicking here.

Online: hawkscay.com

Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi - Santa Fe, NM

A visit to Santa Fe offers families plenty of outdoor adventures such as exploring Bandelier National Park along with the cultural experiences of the city. exploring the city, This summer, Rosewood Inn of the Anasazi, a boutique property right in the heart of downtown Santa Fe, is providing families with a unique experience with the Family Time program. Families staying three nights will receive a fourth night free, $50 resort credit per paid night, as well as a special welcome amenity for children and complimentary dining for children ages twelve and under at the popular Anasazi Restaurant. A complimentary in-room movie night complete with popcorn will delight guests of all ages during this uniquely New Mexican experience.

COVID-19 update: The Rosewood has enhanced safety and cleanliness protocols to ensure the wellbeing of guests. Guests will be contacted prior to arrival for contactless check-in and check-out. Staff are required to wear face masks and gloves throughout the property, and 24 hours are allowed between reservations for a deep cleaning and room sanitation; therefore, no guest room will be booked with back-to-back reservations. All high-touch items such as books and magazines have been removed from the guest rooms and replaced with care kits including sets of gloves, alcohol wipes and face masks. In-room products such as mug, glasses and towels will all be individually cleaned, sterilized and wrapped between each use.

Learn more at rosewoodhotels.com/inn-of-the-anasazi-santa-fe

Wylder Hotel, Tilghman Island - Chesapeake Bay, MD

Escape to an island in the Chesapeake Bay this summer. The Wylder Hotel on Tilghman Island is nine acres of scenic grounds and offers a plethora of social distancing-friendly activities like stand-up paddleboards, canoes and kayaks, island bike riding, sailing, nature walks, beachcombing, charter fishing trips, access to a private marina with 25 boat slips and bocce ball. There’s a saltwater swimming pool and lots of outdoor dining opportunities, which include takeout from Tickler’s Crab Shack & Restaurant and picnic tables spread out all over the property.

Wylder Hotel will be following CDC recommended guidelines in regards to COVID, and will be implementing touchless check-in with direct room access, to-go dining, remote room requests, and restricting the use of public elevators and lobbies to limit exposure to other guests and staff. Guests can expect increased availability of hand sanitizers as well as added cleaning protocols that include regularly disinfecting frequently touched objects and surfaces.

Online: wylderhoteltilghmanisland.com

Cheyenne, WY

Head to Cheyenne for a crowdless cowboy adventure this summer! Even though the legendary Frontier Days has been canceled, there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor fun.

What to do: Head to Pole Mountain for hiking or camping, Gowdy State Park for family-friendly mountain biking, and Terry’s Bison Ranch for horseback riding. Head to the Cheyenne Depot Museum to learn about the history of the area—only 20 guests will be allowed in at a time to maintain social distancing. Masks are recommended but not mandatory.

Where to stay: Terry's Ranch also offers a range of COVID-friendly lodging options including private cabins, RV hookups and campgrounds.

Online: cheyenne.org

Fredericksburg, TX

What to do: This popular Texas Hill Country destination is filled with peach orchards, charming German culture, and plenty of hiking and biking opportunities. There will even be fireworks for the Fourth of July, although the Main Street Parade, the Fourth of July Celebration at Luckenbach Texas, and the Chili Cook-Off at Becker Vineyards have been canceled. Be sure to check out the Old Tunnel State Park Bat Cave, which is an ideal spot after the Texas sun has gone down. Social distancing is required, groups should be no more than 10, and masks are recommended but not required when not eating or engaging in water activities.

Where to stay: There are lots of camping and RV spots, cabins, and guesthouses to choose from.

Online: visitfredericksburgtx.com

Club Getaway - Kent, CT

This 300-acre camp located in the Berkshires is offering a brand new five-day, four-night Campaway program for groups of up to 10 campers (ages 3 and up) and their families. The all-inclusive program includes activities like swimming, boating, hiking, biking, ziplining and more. There are private cabins with bathrooms, air conditioning and each group is assigned a designated counselor for the duration of their stay.

COVID safety measures include diagnostic testing, temperature checks and social distancing, and the addition of more than 100 hand sanitizing stations. When a distance of six feet or more cannot be maintained, face masks will be required. Club Getaway directors and crew will be required to wear face masks when interacting with guests at close range for more than 15 minutes, the kitchen and cleaning crews are required to wear a mask and gloves while working, and equipment and activity areas will be cleaning daily. More information can be found in the complete COVID-19 Guide.

Cost: $899 per camper, which includes one free adult chaperone for every five children campers and $489 for each additional adult.

Dates: Jul. 6-10, Jul. 13-17 and Aug. 3-8

Online: clubgetaway.com/campaway2020

Big Cedar Lodge - Ridgedale, MO

Outdoor adventures are trending this summer and for good reason. With plenty of space, fresh air and sunshine, you’ll be able to unwind without worrying about crowds. Big Cedar Lodge has over 4,600 acres of wilderness in the Ozark Mountains; you’ll find wide-open spaces, green hills, Table Rock Lake, spring-fed creeks, and a beautiful night sky filled with stars.

Opt to stay in one of the log cabins or go for a glamping experience at Camp Long Creek, which includes a “welcome back” complimentary s’ mores kits. COVID safety efforts include temperature checks, extra cleaning and sanitizing of living spaces, additional sanitizing stations, and social distancing protocols in necessary areas.

Online: bigcedar.com

Sage Lodge - Pray, MT

Sage Lodge is a luxury resort that sits on over 1,200 acres of rural landscape right on the banks of the Yellowstone River, and provides breathtaking views of the ruggedly beautiful Paradise Valley and Emigrant Peak. Social distancing won't be a problem as Sage Lodge can house the whole family comfortably with their unique Ranch Houses. With 2,783 square feet to spread out, each Ranch House includes four separate bedrooms, full kitchen, dining area, living room, double-sided gas fireplace and private patio. The Lodge has enacted a number of COVID safety measures to keep all visitors safe.

What to do: Montana vacations are synonymous with outdoor adventure, be it fishing, rafting, snowshoeing, horseback riding, mountain biking, or just meandering around the ranch trails at your leisure. Take a private tour of Yellowstone, practice your casting on the pond or hire an instructor to up your fishing game.

Online: sagelodge.com

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Greene County, NY

Located just two hours from New York, the Catskill Mountains offer loads of outdoor activities for families. Visit the mountaintop to hike the Catskill Park, walk through Thomas Cole's house, fly down the longest, fastest and highest zipline canopy tour in North America, or paddleboard out to the historic Hudson-Athens Lighthouse.

Where to stay: Families will get a kick out of the The Roxbury at Stratton Falls, where you can spend the night in over-the-top themed accommodations ranging from superhero comic strips and Dracula's lair, to fairytale forests (pumpkin carriage and all!). Another fun option is the Eastwind Hotel & Bar, a 1920’s Catskills lodge transformed into a Scandinavian-influenced complex surrounded by sweeping views of the Windham Mountain in the Catskills.

What to do: Walk on the Hudson River Skywalk along the Rip Van Winkle Bridge or take in views at Coxsackie Riverside Park. Want to see the Catskills from the water? Screaming Eagle Outdoor Adventures in Athens features kayak rentals so you can explore along the Hudson River.

Online: greatnortherncatskills.com

Breckenridge, CO

Get out and explore the Colorado mountains this summer. With gorgeous views, wildflowers galore and high alpine lakes, it’s no surprise that hiking is one of the most popular summer activities in Breckenridge. Here are some of the best summer hiking trails for families in the area.

Not only is Breckenridge a hiker’s dream, it’s also a mecca for bikers of all kinds, from road bikers to mountain bikers to cruisers and everything in between. Discover the seemingly endless trails and paths for every level of rider and get ready to take in the views on two wheels. Bike trailers for hauling the little ones are available for rent, too.

If you want to hit the trails in a new way, horseback riding and ATV rides are also available for family excursions.

Where to stay: This past winter, Breck’s Peak 8 base area was transformed and includes Breckenridge Grand Vacations’ third and final building of the Grand Colorado on Peak 8 complete with a rooftop terrace, a 15-person private movie theater, an escape room, awesome pool and more. It's the perfect spot for your family getaway.

Online: gobreck.com

Williamsburg, VA

Greater Williamsburg, Virginia is easily accessible by car from many East Coast cities and is now back in business welcoming vacationers from near and far. While there are new restrictions and guidelines being followed in this post-quarantine world, the major attractions that make this iconic destination so famous are open or will open soon, including Colonial Williamsburg, American Revolution Museum at Yorktown, Jamestown Settlement, Historic Jamestowne, Busch Gardens, Water Country USA, most restaurants, hotels, resorts, wineries, breweries and more.

To encourage visitation to the region, the Williamsburg Tourism Council has launched a new “Life. At Your Pace” marketing campaign to remind guests that the region’s varied and diverse attractions and experiences—from kayaking to Segway tours of battlefields, from brew pubs to amusement parks and golf—offer everyone from all walks of life multiple experiences that allow them to explore at their own pace and comfort level.

Where to stay: Kingsmill Resort is a lovely destination for families with lots of outdoor activities on the property and nearby. Go fishing on the James River, play a round of family golf, cruise around on the resort's lazy river and plan a day at the nearby Go Ape Treetop Adventure Course.

Online: visitwilliamsburg.com

Rosewood Miramar Beach - Montecito, CA

A proper and safe beach vaycay isn't out of the question this year, especially if you are within driving distance of Montecito (Santa Barbara). This summer Rosewood Miramar Beach has a More Miramar offer. Upon booking, families will receive a complimentary third night when staying two nights in a row, plus a $100 Resort credit per night. Families can enjoy a gorgeous pool, watersports, s'mores kits and even curated picnic baskets that can be delivered contactlessly and enjoyed throughout the resort’s grounds.

COVID-19 Update: Launching in tandem with the reopening, several enhanced health and safety protocols have been introduced as part of new brand-wide programs from both Rosewood Hotels & Resorts and Caruso, the resort’s ownership group. All associates are provided with personal protective equipment (PPE) that they are required to wear at all times, and guests will also receive a care kit upon arrival stocked with face masks, hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes to use at their discretion. Thermal cameras have been installed to check the temperatures of all guests and associates at their respective entry points, as well as electrostatic sprayers to regularly sanitize both front of house and back of house spaces. Additionally, UV machines have been installed within the heating, ventilation and cooling systems in the Manor House, the central hub of all activity at the resort and the location of several of the property’s food and beverage venues, to provide for an even further level of sanitization throughout the space.

Learn more at rosewoodwoodhotels.com/miramarbeach

Greenville, SC

Greenville's proximity to the Blue Ridge Mountains means endless ways to explore the outdoors on foot, by bike or by boat. It's also the perfect three-day getaway and it's location just off of I-85 makes it easy to drive to in less than five hours from a number of major cities in the southeast.

Be sure to plan for a breathtaking sunrise at the Fred W. Symmes Chapel, also known as "Pretty Place" for its spectacular views of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Head to Jones Gap State Park for an array of hiking and biking trails, scenic waterfalls and sweeping views. Climb up to Rainbow Falls, a 140-ft waterfall, that lies deep in the heart of South Carolina’s 40,000-acre Mountain Bridge Wilderness Preserve. Cool off and take a dip in the Middle Saluda River or follow the Jones Gap Trail as you go from swimming hole to swimming hole.

Where to stay: If you are looking to make the most of your time outdoors, Greenville has a number of campgrounds and cabins available for families.

Online: tinybeans.go-vip.net

Grand Rapids, MI

Families can soak up this riverfront western Michigan city’s warm summer weather during a relaxed and affordable weekend getaway, sans crowds. Kids and parents alike will love exploring the outdoor art and the Frederic Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, now reopened, which includes a wide range of pieces by every artist from Rodin to Ai Weiwei. The Grand Rapids Public Museum will reopen on July 6 and features fun exhibits for kids with all interests—from a science exhibit on bodies to an interactive exhibit on the history of toys (parents will also enjoy this trip down memory lane).

Where to stay: The city has plenty of places to lay one’s head in its Hotel District, including the historic Amway Grand Plaza and the upscale JW Marriott Grand Rapids, which are taking extra sanitation precautions in light of the pandemic.

Online: experiencegr.com

Great Wolf Lodge Pocono Mountains - Scotrun, PA

Great Wolf Lodge Pocono Mountains announced it will welcome guests back to the resort beginning Friday, June 19, providing a close, convenient staycation for families looking to take that long-awaited getaway together. Additionally, Great Wolf Lodge introduced its new Paw Pledge program, a company-wide initiative focused on keeping families healthy and safe while they play together at the indoor waterpark resort and developed based on guidance from health authorities and public officials.

Enjoy the kid-friendly activities, a range of dining options, an adult-friendly wine down service and more all under one roof. Your stay includes access to the 79,000-sq. ft. water park kept warm at 84-degrees year-round.

Online: greatwolf.com

Newport, RI

With an abundance of outdoor activities and educational tours, Newport is an ideal escape for families looking for a mix of coast and culture. Newport's enchanting 3.5-mile Cliff Walk offers panoramic ocean views, crashing waves and the perfect amount of sea breeze on one side and stunning, century-old, Gilded Age mansions on the other. There are loads of other free things to do in Newport including a visit to a historic fort.

Where to stay: The family fun continues at The Wayfinder Hotel (which just debuted in Newport in May), thanks to amenities such as in-room tents and suites complete with in-room kitchenettes and living rooms. Parents can even book a private summer camp experience for their young travelers, inclusive of an in-room tent, sailing lesson led by local experts, evening s’mores and storytelling, and an on-site lesson with a local Newport artist.

Online: discovernewport.org

Lexington, KY

Families seeking an affordable outdoor getaway this summer can embark on a road trip to Lexington, KY—the “Horse Capital of the World”—and explore championship thoroughbred horse farms (more than 400, in fact!) via private behind-the-scenes tours, tour the grounds of historic bourbon distilleries (14 of the state’s largest) and take in numerous opportunities for outdoor adventure, like hiking and  kayaking, within one of KY’s most beautiful natural areas, the Kentucky River Palisades (a 450-million-year-old ecosystem).

For deliciously-affordable eats, take a drive out to Wallace Station, a country café with picnic tables surrounded by picturesque hills and horse farms with white picket fences. For craft ice cream lovers, Crank & Boom’s new Summer Pop Up Shop serves up handcrafted ice creams with flavors that embody the heart of Kentucky like Bourbon & Honey and KY Blackberry & Buttermilk.

Where to stay: Book a stay at Shaker Village, the largest restored Shaker village in the world featuring 3,000 acres of outdoor adventure and 72 guest rooms, suites, and private cottages, or at the 1,200-acre  Kentucky Horse Park Campground with 260 spacious sites for tents, RV’s and trailer campers.

Online: visitlex.com

Door County, WI

Door County has plenty of wide-open spaces, which is perfect for summer 2020. A visit to Door County in July/August will bring you to the wonder of cherry season. Pick these sweet fruits right from the trees and enjoy cherry baked goods and even cherry bratwurst. Don’t worry, even if you aren’t there for prime cherry time you’ll be able to grab loads of this local fruit at stores and restaurants around town.

What to do: Opt to go kayaking on Lake Michigan, take a leisurely hike or bike ride, or even a scenic drive. The famous Door County beaches are open, but social distancing rules are in place. Many restaurants are still offering curbside or takeout, and a few have ample alfresco opportunities, including Wild Tomato Wood-Fired Pizza & Grille, and Pelletier’s. Check out all the COVID safety measures being taken by clicking here.

Where to stay: There are plenty of campgrounds, cabins, houses and more for reservation. Click here to see them all.

Online: tinybeans.go-vip.net

The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village - Cape Coral, FL

Known for its access to 400 miles of navigable canals and waterways rich with marine life, The Westin Cape Coral Resort at Marina Village offers both a relaxing and adventurous tropical escape for families seeking an all-immersive nature experience. Perfect for large families, the resort's suites boast a full kitchen and Fridge Fills can be completed upon request when made 7 days in advance. These fills can include both ready-made meals as well as ingredient baskets where the resort’s chef will provide guests with a selection of recipes to choose from and all ingredients necessary to prepare it. With activities from private fishing charters, kayaks, paddleboards and Dolphin & Sunset Cruises, teens will be so enthralled by exploring South Florida’s natural beauty that they will not even notice their accidental digital detox.

Online: marriott.com

Chattanooga, TN

If hiking to waterfalls hidden in underground caves, flying over treetops and exploring magical rock gardens sounds like the makings of an adventurous family vacation, then pack your bags and head to Chattanooga! Your visit to Chattanooga gives you the opportunity to see two southern states in one trip. To the city’s south, Georgia is a mere 15-minute drive away and offers visitors to the area a plethora of must-experience activities. Chances are good that as you go on the adventures in our guide to Chattanooga, you will find yourself crossing the boarder over and over again.

What to do: The iconic Lookout Mountain Incline Railway just underwent renovations including making it wheelchair accessible. Back open for business June 29, new red and yellow cars will also feature bigger windows for better views, heat and air conditioning. Lookout Mountain played a pivotal role in the U.S. Civil War well before the first train was built in 1885. Since then, the train’s earned the moniker, “America’s most amazing mile,” because of the scenic views afforded by a trip on the train. Its history is as fascinating as its panoramas are beautiful!

Where to stay: The SpringHill Suites by Marriott is the perfect place for your crew to set up basecamp. Located in Downtown Chattanooga, right on the Tennessee Riverfront, it sets you up to be within a short walking, biking or driving distance of everything on your to-do list.

Online: tinybeans.go-vip.net

—Kate Loweth & Gabby Cullen

Editor’s Note: At the time of publication, all locations and resorts were open for business. Please check individual websites for the latest information.

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A Sensory-Friendly Aquatic Presentation and Other Inclusive Activities

by Maria ChambersJanuary 10, 2020

The hustle and bustle that’s bundled with everyday life for our littlest friends can be tough on a kid with special needs. That’s why some local kid-centric businesses and performance groups block off specific times where the noise is dialed back, lights are dimmed, crowds are kept small and kids are, well, free to be themselves! Read on to learn about a special Blue Man Group performance and museums, play spaces, theatres, a gym and more that keep special needs kids in mind when developing their programming.

photo: Chicago Children’s Museum

YEAR-ROUND ACTIVITIES

Play for All at Chicago Children’s Museum
On the second Saturday of every month from 9 a.m.-10 a.m., Chicago Children’s Museum invites children with disabilities and their families to experience playful, multi-sensory exhibits for a special Play for All private hour. The first 250 visitors to register receive FREE admission. CCM opens to the public at 10 a.m. and Play For All families are welcome to stay and continue exploring the museum all day. Note: Pre-registration is required.

Outside of the second Saturday of the month opportunity, the museum has sound-reducing headphones, lap trays for wheelchairs, personal museum schedules, visual rule cards, an online Therapeutic Play Guide, a partnership with Francis W. Parker School to provide specially-trained student guides for your child and the entire museum is wheelchair accessible.

Chicago Children’s Museum, 700 E. Grand Ave., Navy Pier; Online: chicagochildrensmuseum.org

Get cultured with a Red Kite Project
Chicago Children’s Theatre created the Red Kite Project to bring on-going theatrical adventures, dynamic learning opportunities and camps to children on the autism spectrum and their families.

Every Monday, 4:30 p.m.-5:30 p.m., kids in grades 5-12 can participate in Red Kite Presents Shakespeare and Autism where the Hunter Heartbeat method is utilized to help participants navigate the social and communicative barriers of autism. This class is designed for neurodiverse learners to develop imaginative play skills, engage positively with their peers and learn how to work together as an ensemble.

The Station, 100 South Racine Ave., West Loop; Online: chicagochildrenstheatre.org

We Rock the Spectrum Kids Gym
We Rock the Gym is a safe space for kids all across the spectrum where apologies are never needed and uniqueness is celebrated. They’re committed to providing all children a fun, motivational environment to help increase strength and improve movement, sensory processing, communication, social interactions and self-care skills, while also incorporating positive behavior modification. Offerings include structured class times and open play sessions with drop-in and membership opportunities.

We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym, 553 E. Dundee, Palatine; Online: werockthespectrumchicagopalatine.com

Jump, jump, jump around at Airtastic
Start your week off with jumps at Airtastic’s Music FREE Mondays. They turn off the music to remove extra noise that can bother some children.

Airtastic, 850 S. Frontenac St., Aurora; Online: airtastic.com

photo: Blue Man Group via Caroline Talbot Photography

Blue Man Group goes sensory-friendly
Blue Man Group offers an annual sensory-friendly performance which includes slight modifications, such as dim lighting, bean bags, calm environment and quiet corners to better accommodate individuals with autism. Sound levels are reduced at select moments and noise isolating headphones also available upon request. Keep tabs on their website for future dates.

Briar Street Theatre, 3133 N. Halsted, Lakeview; Online: blueman.com

Special needs screenings at Studio Movie Grill
Studio Movie Grill hosts family-friendly movies free for children with special needs and their siblings with the purchase of an adult ticket. These special screenings are shown with the lights up and the volume lowered. Don’t worry if your movie date likes to stay on the move, children are free to move around, talk and even dance in the aisle. All screenings are shown at 11 a.m. on select dates.

Studio Movie Grill, 301 Rice Lake Square, Wheaton, 630-480-9557; Online: studiomoviegrill.com

photo: Shedd Aquarium

Fish around for fun times at Shedd Aquarium
Shedd Aquarium’s inclusion program, Calm Waters, extends hours on select days exclusively for persons with disabilities. These evenings include a Caribbean Reef dive, during which you can watch a scuba diver explore the habitat alongside the animals, a 4-D Experience that combines the elements of a 3-D film with additional sensory effects like water mist and bubbles, plus an opportunity to learn how Shedd’s marine mammal trainers care for the animals. Check their website for dates and times.

photo: Shedd Aquarium

Shedd Aquarium is offering visitors a low-sensory aquatic presentation on Thursdays at 3:30 p.m. and on the last Sunday every month for the last presentation of the day. Shedd’s low sensory aquatic presentations have reduced volume, dimmed lighting and all flashing lights are removed.

Before you visit Shedd, download their sensory-friendly app designed for guests with autism and sensory-processing disorders in mind. It includes video social guides that offer information on individual exhibit spaces, including photos, tips on temperature and noise levels. The app also includes a visual schedule, communication tools, sensory-friendly maps and more tips to plan your visit, set expectations and ease anxiety. And for our Spanish-speaking friends, a Spanish version is now available.

In addition, the aquarium has created a quiet room providing a dedicated space that can be used as a calming room, prayer room or place to privately recharge mobility devices.

Shedd Aquarium, 1200 S. Lake Shore Dr., Museum Campus, 312-939-2438; Online: sheddaquarium.org

Have wild fun at Lincoln Park Zoo
While Lincoln Park Zoo doesn’t have set times to bring kids who need special accommodations, they do have a great resource guide on their website giving tips on best times to come and which animal houses are the quietest, have lighting that’s comforting or are all-together sensory neutral. They also give information on best places to park, have wheelchairs available for rent with $20 deposit, ASL guides for the deaf and sighted guides for visually impaired visitors.

Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St., Lincoln Park, 312-742-2000; Online: lpzoo.org/accessibility

photo: The Field Museum via Maria Chambers

Visit the dinos at The Field Museum
The Field Museum understands that some kiddos may have specific sensory processing needs in order to have a great museum experience. For that very reason, they open the doors to the Crown Family PlayLap one hour early on select Saturdays, so families can enjoy a crowd-free space. There are tactile opportunities and sensory tools to help ensure an enjoyable experience for all.

The Field Museum, 1400 S. Lake Shore Dr., Museum Campus; Online: fieldmuseum.org

Popcorn and a show at AMC
AMC partners with the Autism Society to offer specialized movie showings where the lights are turned up and the sound down so you can get up, dance, walk, shout or belt out a tune. The Sensory Friendly Film program is available on the second and fourth Saturday of every month.

Check for theaters and listings near you at amctheatres.com

Photo: LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago via Maria Chambers

Play Well Days at LEGOLAND Discovery
LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago and Austim Speaks teamed up to provide a sensory-friendly LEGO experience the first Saturday of every month. Special accommodations will be made during Play Well Days including reduction of sound and lights, quiet spaces, a reduced center capacity, staff training by Autism Speaks and earplugs are provided, if requested.

LEGOLAND Discovery Center Chicago, 601 N. Martingale Dr., Schaumburg; Online: chicago.legolanddiscoverycenter.com

Reach for the clouds at Sky High Sports
Every Tuesday, Sky High Sports turns off the music, dims the lights and dials down the distractions for the comfort of their guests. Jump sessions for kids with special needs and their families is a passion project for Sky High founder Jerry Raymond. The father of a special needs son, Jerry has witnessed how jumping can help improve motor and sensory skills, social interaction and overall fitness for kids and young adults. Times of the jump vary by location, so check the website for the location nearest you before heading to jump.

Sky High Sports, 6424 Howard St., Niles; Online: nil.skyhighsports.com or 2244 Corporate Lane, Naperville; Online: nap.skyhighsports.com

photo: Brookfield Zoo

Go blue at Brookfield Zoo
For the last 4 years, Brookfield Zoo has hosted Autism Awareness in April, where they dye the fountain blue and have special activities — like crafting, quieted carousel rides, tailored Zoo Chats with animals and designated areas for quiet time geared toward special needs families. If you’re visiting on a day outside of the designated Autism Awareness Day, you can pick up a BZ Care Kit for free that includes noise-reducing headphones, hard copies of visual schedules, autism stickers and safety alert badges and ID bracelets in case a child gets separated.

Also good to note, Brookfield Zoo has an online map that shows quiet spaces throughout the zoo where you can duck into when needed. They also have wheelchairs and Electronic Convenience Vehicles available for rent, ASL interpreters upon request and those with disabilities are not required to wait in any lines. They have a robust Accessibility Guide online that’s worth a look through before your zoo visit, as well.

Brookfield Zoo, 3300 Golf Rd., Brookfield; Online: czs.org

Family Night Out at DuPage Children’s Museum
DuPage Children’s Museum’s Family Night Out provides an evening of play and learning for children on the autism spectrum and other sensory processing disorders, as well as physical disabilities. Check their website for dates.

If you find a member of your crew needs a break from the action, let a DCM worker show you to the Quiet Room. You’ll find a soft couch, dimmed blue lights and a calming marble wall full of light and touch sensations. TIP: After school and early evening are often quieter times for family or therapeutic visits.

DuPage Children’s Museum, 301 N. Washington St., Naperville; 630-637-8000; Online: dupagechildrens.org

photo: Morton Arboretum

Take a nature walk at Morton Arboretum
A trip to the Arboretum is a great first ingredient for a good day for both kids and parents. It’s a fun place to explore and develop a love of the great outdoors. While they don’t have specific hours that target families with special needs, they do offer a thorough resource page on their website to help navigate the Arboretum comfortably and special Visual Schedule books are available at the Information Desk in the Visitor Center on a first-come, first-served basis. The book helps guests plan their visit and is designed specifically for individuals on the autism spectrum or with learning or development disabilities.

To expand your nature walks beyond Morton Arboretum, check out our story Hiking Trails That Even Toddlers Will Love.

Morton Arboretum, 4100 IL Rte. 53, Lisle; Online: mortonarb.org

Take a swim with JCC
JCC Chicago has created an All-In Swim program for children on the autism spectrum designed to teach water safety and swim skills in a comfortable, supportive environment. Their unique curriculum focuses on valuable life-saving techniques, recreational swim therapy and increased independence and self-esteem. Each class incorporates creative games and play, as well as visual instruction such as picture cards. For certain sensory sensitivities, textured mats, wet suits, water toys and flotation devices may be used to maximize the experience. With seven levels of learning, students will make progress at their own pace.

If JCC Chicago isn’t convenient for you, reach out to one of the pools in our story 7 Swimming Schools That Will Float Your Boat to inquire about your child’s unique needs.

Programs available in West Rogers Park and Northbrook; Online: jccchicago.org

photo: Autism Speaks

HOW TO SUPPORT

Walk Now for Autism Speaks
This no-pressure, three-mile walk takes place in two locations in the spring, downtown Chicago and Northfield. 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. And, that’s right: no registration fees. You won’t get a T-shirt unless you raise at least $150 for Autism Speaks, but anyone is welcome to participate, whether or not you choose to fundraise. This annual event also features an after-party with kid lures like inflatable bouncers, sensory sensitive activities and a petting zoo.

Find out more at autismspeaks.org

— Maria Chambers

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Costco’s Last-Minute Valentine’s Gifts Are Your Saving Grace

by Karly WoodFebruary 12, 2019

On the hunt for the perfect gift for Feb. 14? You may want to consider a few Valentine’s Day gifts from Costco!

While the warehouse may not be the first thing that comes to your mind when you think “romance,” it definitely packs some surprising punches when it comes to creative gift giving. So on your next run, look for these top pics for perfect gifts for your SO, galentine or maybe just someone you really, really like.

Gifts for Him

Popcornopolis 3.5 Gallon Valentine's Day Popcorn Tin

Can you ever have enough popcorn? This 3.5-gallon tin from Popcornopolis ($40) may give you a run for your money! The tin comes packed with Zebra, cheddar cheese and caramel corn topped popcorn that has 75% more than their usual 2-gallon tin. Happy snacking!

Game Gold Live Digital Shot Tracking Bundle

For that avid golfer in your life, the Game Gold Live Digital Tracking Shot Tracking Bundle will set you back $100 at Costco. It includes Game Golf Live and 36 smart tags for up to 2 Sets of Clubs, GPS real-time automatic shot tracking, gives club distances, shot dispersion patterns and pinpoints improvement opportunities. This is a golfer's dream!

Wenger Roadster Stainless Steel Bronze Coated Men's Watch

Classy and timeless, this Wenger bronze watch ($150) is a great Valentine's Day gift. The nylon wrist band is perfect for active guys, while the stylish face makes it perfect for work or play.

Samsung Gear IconX True Wireless Earbud Headphones

They're sleek, they're stylish and perfect for the gym. Samsung's Gear IconC wireless earbuds ($130) store up to 1,000 songs, are wireless for up to 300 feet and last seven hours on one charge!

Adam's Polishes Car Care Wash Bucket Kit

Now THIS is the gift that keeps on giving. When you gift Adam's Polishes Car Care kit ($130) you not only help your auto-loving guy keep his car clean but yours too! The 17-piece set comes with everything from car wash soap, to microfiber towels and glass cleaner.

French Terry Jogger Pants

Snuggling up on Valentine's Day has never been more comfy! These French terry joggers ($15) are cozy enough to wear around the house, but also classic enough to wear on errands. Choose between black and gray, and enjoy the drawstring waistband and angled pockets.

Herschel Pop Quiz Backpack

Padded straps and a fleece-lined laptop compartment make this a thoughtful and functional gift. The classic Herschel brand is waterproof, comes with mesh pockets and would look great on any guy.

Atom Gift Cards

Buy three and get one free when you purchase this 4-pack of Atom gift cards for ($75). Atom allows you to purchase movie tickets from your home, scan into movies, and even purchase concessions. Date night, anyone?

Maui Jim Polarized Sunglasses

These polarized sunglasses from Maui Jim ($97) not only look great, but they offer 100% UV protection, too. Any dad would appreciate these shades!

Braun Series Razor 7

This smart shaver from Braun ($130) adapts to a man's beard! This device is rechargeable, comes with an LED light for battery monitoring and is the perfect way to say "you better shave for Valentine's Day."

Gifts for Her

Venus Bath Soak Set

What tired mama doesn't need a stash of bath soaks waiting in the wings? This adorable set of six 7 oz Venus Bath Soaks ($44) nourishes skin and is made with no parabens, propylene glycol, mineral oil, or synthetic colors. And those tins? Definitely a keeper.

UGG Duffield Throw

Because Valentine's Day is for snuggling, this UGG Duffield Throw ($65) comes in four different colors, is machine washable and oh so cozy.

Jo Malone Lime Basil & Mandarin Cologne

Perfume lovers will clamor to get their hands on a Jo Malone cologne. The classy products are on the pricer side ($110) but Costco prices them the best! This citrus fragrance has notes of lime, mandarin orange, and bergamot and middle notes of basil, lilac, iris, thyme and base notes of patchouli and vetiver. Perfect for the man or woman in your life.

Belgian Chocolate Covered Strawberries and Cheesecake Combo

What's Valentine's Day without a little chocolate? Give the gift of sweetness with this festive gift of chocolate covered strawberries and cheesecake pops ($40) made by artisans in a gourmet kitchen. YUM.

50 Rose Bouquet

Nothing says love like a bunch of roses! And in this case, Costco has two 25-stem bouquets for just $50. Choose from pink, red, white, yellow and tons of color combos like this hot pink and light pink bouquet.

Ted Baker Rose Gold Tone Watch

This genuine leather and rose gold ladies watch from Ted Baker ($90) is a thing of beauty! The floral watch pattern and delicate bow design on the face is the perfect dainty gift for your gal this Valentines.

Kate Spade Crossbody Purse

Gold-toned hardware perfectly complements this gorgeous Kate Spade crossbody purse ($175) in a warm vellum color. While this purse definitely won't take the place of your trusty diaper bag, it will make the woman in your life feel pretty special.

Spa Sonic Pro 8-piece Facial Cleansing System

Busy parents don't always have the time (or money) to hit up the spa. That's why this Spa Sonic facial cleansing system ($35) is a must this Valentine's Day! It comes with five attachments, travel tote and has two speeds. Take your pick from four colors, too!

Ultra Plush Lounge Pant

You can never have enough comfy pants! This two pack of ultra plush lounge pants ($25) is the ideal way to say "I love you" this year. The pair comes in blue and magenta colors, is made of plush, stretchy fabric and three working pockets.

Spa Finder Gift Cards

While it may not be as popular to give gift cards for Valentine's Day, we don't know of anyone who would turn down one for a spa day. The best part about buying a Spa Finder gift card at Costco is it saves you money! Snag two $50 cards for only $80 and send your loved one on a nice day away at the spa.

––Karly Wood

All photos courtesy of Costco

featured image: AndyKatz via iStock

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8 Easy Ways Your Kids Can Give Back All Year Round

by Amber GuetebierOctober 17, 2018

In Partnership with Amazon Fire Kids Edition Tablets

It’s so important to give back to our community, and this is one of the biggest lessons we try to teach our kids. We all know sometimes volunteering with the kiddos can be tricky, to say the least. But if your kid has an Amazon Fire Kids Edition Tablet, giving back and doing good is easier than you think. We asked parents and kids alike for ideas on how to use their Amazon Fire Kids Edition tablets to make a difference in their neighborhood. Read on to find out what they said!

1. Give some love to an animal shelter.

Make the Toca Pet Doctor game they found in their Kindle FreeTime Unlimited library a real-life activity—even if you can't have an animal of your own at home. With a never-ending supply of great kids books in any of the Amazon Fire Kids Edition tablets, kids can practice reading to shelter animals. Libraries across the country offer this great way for children to gain literacy skills and confidence, and many shelters also welcome the idea. Find out if your local pet shelter or animal rehab would like to organize a time for kids to read to pets—they can bring that indestructible Fire Kids Edition 7 along with.

2. Gather old toys and donate them to a local organization.

Whether it’s the post-gift-giving holiday season or your kiddo has a birthday coming up soon, every parent loves a good toy purge. This year, why not teach your little ones about the power of giving and receiving by having your kids go through their toys and books and encourage them to donate to others in need. You can take your kid-approved donations to places like pediatrician office waiting rooms, daycare centers or churches and synagogues (just make sure to check with them first). Police and fire departments also welcome toys to help to calm distraught kids, too.

Before you start making “keep” and “donate” piles with your kid, you can start the conversation about giving with your kids via shared storytime on the Amazon Fire Kids Edition tablet: books like Shel Silverstein’s The Giving Tree and The Berenstain Bears Think of Those in Need by Jan and Stan Berenstain are great places to start.

3. Host a bake sale to end child hunger.

No Kid Hungry is committed to making sure kids never go hungry. One of the ways they meet this goal is through the Bake Sale to End Child Hunger. This national fundraising initiative is simple: you hold a bake sale in your community, and the proceeds are donated back to the organization. Getting started is easy and bake sales can be held any time of the year. Simply fill out the "Start a Bake Sale" online form and enter the dates, locations and times.

If your kiddo is a rookie in the kitchen, don’t worry: you can prep your mini sous-chef by watching a few episodes of Kitchen Little on Amazon Fire Kids Edition tablets. They have great, easy-to-follow recipes for kids of all ages and cooking abilities.

4. Visit a senior center or nursing home.

Let your kids get artsy and practice their writing, all while doing an act of lovely community service. If your child needs to work on their handwriting before committing crayon to paper, there are plenty of awesome practice letter writing apps available for little hands on one of the Amazon Fire Kids Edition tablets.Your local nursing home or senior living facility could always welcome holiday and birthday cards for residents; call ahead and see if they can give you a list of first names for upcoming resident birthdays.

Want to go one better? Find out if your children can spend some time at a nearby nursing home showing residents how to use tech like Amazon Fire Kids Edition tablets. Kids can find games, shows and books to do together with the residents. (And you know your kids know their Fire Kids Edition tablets better than you do!!)

5. Give your DVDs a new home.

With FreeTime Unlimited—a one-year subscription is included with you buy one of the Amazon Fire Kids Edition tablets—the more than 15,000 kid-friendly books, videos, educational apps and games at your kids’ hands have likely turned your DVD collection into a “Definitely Very Dusty” collection.

Help your kids pick out the DVDs they don't watch anymore and give them a new home (because let’s get real: is your five-year-old really going to watch Baby Einstein anymore?). Children's hospitals, libraries, women’s shelters and daycare centers often welcome such donations. Elementary schools may also take some of your gems (rated G, of course).

6. Make a homemade comfy blanket.

Linus from the Peanuts comic isn't the only person who knows the value a comfy blanket can bring. Project Linus understands too, and they make it their mission to provide homemade security blankets to kids in hospitals, shelters or wherever they need a bit of comfort in their lives. You and your family can become "blanketeers" by creating a handmade blanket or afghan for a kiddo in need. Once you're finished, you drop it off at one of the organization’s donation centers in your closest city.

Not a sewing pro? No problem! Check out this short video tutorial showing how to make a no-sew pillow via Amazon Prime Video.

7. Create hygiene and care kits for people who are homeless.

Many often think about people who are homeless during the holiday season, but in truth, they need help 365 days of the year. Get the conversation going by reading books like Maddi’s Fridge, Last Stop on Market Street or Those Shoes with your kids one of the Amazon Fire Kids Edition tablets.

Hygiene and care kits (sometimes called “blessing bags”) are extremely helpful and welcomed by those living without the comforts of simple personal hygiene every day. Families can take kids shopping for items under $5 such as toothpaste, toothbrushes, deodorant, new socks, hand sanitizer or wet wipes and assemble them in Ziplock bags. Families can then distribute bags on their own or bring them to a local homeless shelter.

8. Shop for your family while donating to organizations important to you.

Did you know that by making one teeny, tiny change to your online shopping at Amazon, you can make a donation to an organization of your choosing every time you shop? The AmazonSmile Foundation donates a portion of purchases to an organization shoppers choose—all without costing anything extra. Visit smile.amazon.com to pick your charity of choice and start donating with every purchase you make.

Parents you can shop directly on any of the Amazon Fire Kids Edition tablets: turn off parental controls to access the Silk web browser—just don’t forget to turn the parental controls back on when you’re finished!

How do you get your kids involved in giving back? Tell us your ideas and share your stories in the comments.

—Leah R. Singer, Susie Foresman, Keiko Zoll, Amber Guetebier

featured image by kko669 via Pixabay

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