48 U.S. Spots to Visit with Your Kids Before They Grow Up

by Kate LowethJanuary 11, 2024

We searched from the top of skyscrapers to the lowest desert in the U.S. to put together this list of amazing family trips. Whether your kids are interested in history, baseball, or chocolate, there’s gonna be something that’s right up their alley. We recommend visiting these destinations before the high school years (when let’s face it, they are less interested in traveling with you). We’ve included lots of outdoor spaces, like some of our favorite national parks, along with must-visit spots in more metropolitan areas. How many of these can your family check off?

1. The Statue of Liberty—New York, NY

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Don’t let your kids’ only sight of Lady Liberty be on TV or in the movies. Let them experience a sense of freedom at Liberty Island, where they can climb the stairs through the statue’s pedestal, explore the crown, or visit the Statue of Liberty Museum. Kids can participate in the Junior Ranger program and earn a badge when they complete the educational activities inside the information center and around the island. Reservations are highly recommended.

Find out more: nps.gov/stli

2. The Bean—Chicago, IL

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The Bean is the main attraction in Millennium Park that reflects Chicago’s famous skyline and the puffy clouds above. Officially called “Cloud Gate,” this public sculpture is a little kid favorite as they can see themselves from all sides thanks to the stainless steel coating of the bean-shaped sculpture. While you’re in the hood, head to Maggie Daley Park or splash around in the Crown Fountain if the temps are warm.

Find out more: tinybeans.com

3. Mississippi Civil Rights Museum—Jackson, MS

Civil Rights history comes alive for your school-age children at this thought-provoking museum. Through eight galleries, you can explore interactive exhibits and engaging artifacts, and hear stories from people who fought for civil rights in Mississippi. The galleries encircle a reflective space entitled, “This Little Light of Mine” with a dramatic sculpture that glows brighter as visitors gather. Follow the rich history of civil rights together, and learn how it changed the nation.

Find out more: mcrm.mdah.ms.gov

4. Houston Space Center—Houston, TX

Do your kiddos dream of going to the moon? The Space Center Houston is their ticket to ride! Inspire their curiosity at this exciting learning center that uses space exploration to create an interest in science and math. Check out the more than 400 space artifacts, exhibits, and experiences related to America’s human space-flight program. Known as the home of NASA Mission Control and the International Space Station, you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the U.S. space program. One of your most memorable experiences is sure to be the epic Apollo 17 Command Module. To the moon!

Find out more: spacecenter.org

5. Muir Woods—Mill Valley, CA

Chances are, your kids have never seen trees as tall as the California Redwoods. With 31 National and State parks to choose from, you can explore these majestic giants all over California. You’ll even find three trees you can drive through! For the easiest access, head to Muir Woods National Monument, near San Francisco. As a part of the National Park System, kids can join the Junior Rangers, letting them care for the national parks and learn new ways to experience the environment. Walk among old-growth coast redwoods, explore the interpretive displays, and hike the numerous hiking trails.

Find out more: tinybeans.com/san-francisco-muir-woods

6. Baseball Hall of Fame—Cooperstown, NY

Hit a home run when you visit this museum devoted to our Nation’s pastime. Head to the Hall of Fame gallery to see plaques devoted to baseball greats and then check out uniforms that date back to the inception of the sport.

Find out more: baseballhall.org

7. Four Corners Monument—AZ, CO, NM, and UT

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If you ever wanted to be in four places at once, then the Four Corners Monument is a place you need to visit. This unique spot where the states of Arizona, Colorado, New Mexico, and Utah intersect is a kid and Instagram favorite. The surrounding area has hiking and a visitor center where you can learn all about the area’s Navajo history.

Find out more: visitarizona.com

8. Gettysburg, PA

The town of Gettysburg is full of history and a great spot for a family visit. You can view living history demonstrations, dine in a period tea parlor, and even experience the area aboard a steam-powered replica train. Head to the Gettysburg History Center to view a diorama of the 6,000-acre Battle of Gettysburg.

Find out more: destinationgettysburg.com

9. The Hollywood Sign—Los Angeles, CA

Whether you drive or hike to see the sign up close, or you find the perfect selfie spot from a distance, the Hollywood sign is a must-visit for families when they come to Los Angeles. Many families choose Griffith Park as their viewing location as you’ll get some epic views of downtown as well as train rides and hiking trails perfect for kids.

Find out more: visitcalifornia.com

10. Colonial Williamsburg—VA

Immerse yourself in history when you visit Colonial Williamsburg. Visit the blacksmith shop to learn what this important trade created for those fighting in the Revolutionary War. Kids will love taking a carriage ride down Main Street and dining on colonial-inspired favorites at the tavern.

Find out more: colonialwilliamsburg.com

11. Zion National Park, Utah

The fourth-most-visited National Park in the United States, Zion National Park is now part of Greater Zion, which also includes St. George, Springdale, Hurricane, Washington, and other towns. Take in the breathtaking scenery and surrounding red rock canyons as you head up to the mountains. Bring the kids for year-round outdoor recreation like mountain biking, hiking, kayaking, and more. Show them the open road and historic petroglyphs with exhilarating ATV and Jeep Adventure Tours, or a view from an aerial tour. Enjoy a musical performance at the magnificent Tuacahn Center for the Arts with its 2,000-seat amphitheater.

Find out more: greaterzion.com

12. Hoover Dam—NV

This historic dam just outside of Las Vegas is a road trip must-see when visiting this area of the country. Built in the 1930s to produce hydroelectric power, kids will be awed by its massive size. Make sure you stop at the visitor center to learn all about how it was built. A small number of tickets are available on-site to take an elevator down to see the inner workings of the dam.

Find out more: usbr.gov

13. National Civil Rights Museum—Memphis, TN

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The National Civil Rights Museum seeks to open a dialogue about the story of Black Americans who experienced and resisted discrimination—a history that spans slavery through the modern Civil Rights Movement, nonviolent protests to armed self-defense. The museum offers 260 artifacts, more than 40 new films, oral histories, interactive media, and external listening posts that guide visitors through five centuries of history.

Find out more: civilrightsmuseum.org

14. Willis Tower—Chicago, IL

Formerly known as the Sears Tower, this Chicago skyline landmark offers an epic view from its Skydeck that you won’t want to miss. Daredevils can walk out on The Ledge, a glass-enclosed platform where you are fully suspended above the street from 103 floors above.

Find out more: theskydeck.com

15. The Smithsonian Museums—Washington, DC

The thing about a visit to the Smithsonian Museums in D.C. is that there is literally something for everyone. From historical aircraft to exhibits about narwhals, the kids will definitely have their curiosity engaged on a visit to our nation’s capital.

16. Hershey’s Chocolate World—Hershey, PA

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This sweet stop on the road trip circuit is one that is certain to please even the grumpiest of toddlers. Learn how chocolate is made and sample the wares as you go.

Find out more: hersheypa.com

17. Bandelier National Monument—Los Alamos, NM

This rugged and beautiful canyon and mesa country was home to humans as far back as 11,000 years ago. Check out cave dwellings, petroglyphs, and other evidence about how people once lived.

Find out more: nps.gov

18. National Susan B. Anthony House & Museum | Rochester, NY

Learn all about Susan B. Anthony with a visit to her former home. The famous civil rights leader was arrested here when she voted in 1872, and it was the home of the headquarters of the National American Woman Suffrage Association while she was president. Take a tour of the house, learn the story behind her legendary life, and be inspired by her “Failure is Impossible” speech.

Online: susanb.org

19. Cadillac Mountain—Acadia National Park, ME

From October to March, this is the very first place in the country to see the sunrise, so visiting in winter is well worth it, weather withstanding. In summer, summiting Cadillac Mountain is guaranteed to be as easy as the drive to the top, where kids can explore the granite rocks (a result of volcanic activity over 350 million years ago!), paved paths, and the overall majesty of Acadia National Park.

Find out more: acadiamagic.com/CadillacMountain

20. Niagara Falls State Park—Niagara, NY

It’s not every day you can see another country from where you stand! There are several ways to experience the famous falls up close. From the poncho get-up to venturing close enough to get soaked, Cave of the Winds’ 175-foot descent into Niagara Gorge is a child’s delight. If your little captain would prefer a boat-deck view, Maid of the Mist also promises powerful proximity to the thunder of the falls.

21. El Yunque National Forest | Puerto Rico

Hiking is one of the major draws for visitors to El Yunque, located on the eastern side of Puerto Rico. The new Visitor’s Center has exhibits where you can learn about the plants and animals (and HUGE bugs!) that make up the rainforest and what you can do to protect this essential natural resource.

22. Royal Gorge Bridge & Park—Canon City, CO

If thrill seekers are curious to know what it feels like to be suspended 1,200 feet above the ground, one of Royal Gorge’s six aerial gondolas offers an exhilarating way to find out. If anyone prefers to walk, its suspension bridge also straddles the 2,200-foot span of the Arkansas River.

Find out more: royalgorgebridge.com

23. Independence Hall—Philadelphia, PA

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Teach the kids more about America’s fight for independence from Britain in Philadelphia, the cradle of liberty. In 1776, it was here that the Second Continental Congress signed the Declaration of Independence. In 1787, delegates to the Constitutional Convention created and signed an enduring framework of government—the United States Constitution. A visit to Independence Hall (don’t forget to check out the Liberty Bell!) will allow you to share a historic moment. Tickets are free, but you must join one of their tours.

Find out more: nps.gov/inde

24. Walt Disney World—Orlando, FL

While Disney definitely has lifelong super fans, the magic of the Happiest Place on Earth is strongest in childhood. Even if you do it once, it will be worth the look on their faces when they meet their favorite character, take that first ride down Splash Mountain, or otherwise delight in the fairy tales and fireworks.

25. Mt. Denali—Denali National Park & Preserve, AK

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Whether you’re heading there in the heart of winter or the full glory of a wildflower spring, there is something to be said for seeing the tallest mountain in North America with your own eyes. And clocking in at 20,000 feet and change, Mt. Denali has the honors. This is an ideal spot to teach little explorers just how mighty our planet is.

Find out more: nps.gov/dena

26. Empire State Building—New York City, NY

A first trip to the Big Apple is one to remember, as is that ride to the top of the Empire State Building. Nothing beats its 360-degree view of our largest U.S. city—you can see for 80 miles. The grandeur won’t be lost on kids—they’ll feel on top of the world from the 86^th-floor observation deck—the highest open-air observatory in the city.

Find out more: esbnyc.com

27. Kīlauea Volcano—Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, HI

If you find yourself on the Big Island, you’ll absolutely want to visit the most active volcano in the world! Because of that, be sure to check conditions before you summit Kīlauea, but when the coast is clear, you’ll have a choice of hiking trails. You can also stay close to the action at Volcano House, camp nearby, or easily reach the park during a day trip from wherever you’re staying (it’s less than an hour from Hilo and two-three hours from Kailua-Kona). Aloha!

Find out more: nps.gov/havo

28. Old Faithful—Yellowstone National Park, WY

three kids wathcing old faithful at yellowstone national park — Kate Loweth

While several of our national parks made this list, Yellowstone is arguably our country’s most storied (and its first), thanks in no small part to the legendary status of Old Faithful, a geyser so cool it has its own webcam. And did you know you can see it under the stars? Visibility is best around a full moon.

Find out more: nps.gov/yell

29. Homestead Crater—Midway, UT

A true wonder of Mother Nature, Homestead Crater and its geothermal spring can be found 55 feet down a limestone rock that’s shaped like a beehive and only took 10,000 years to form. And while you have to be at least 10 to learn to scuba dive, this is the only place in the U.S. where you can do so in warm water—it’s 90-96 degrees year-round.

Find out more: homesteadresort.com

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30. 9/11 Memorial and Museum | New York, NY

Visiting the 9/11 Memorial may be more of a somber activity to do with your kids, but it’s an important piece of the city’s history and one that can help you discuss the events that happened there.

31. LEGOLAND Resort—Carlsbad, CA, Winter Haven, FL, & Goshen, NY

If you really want epic fun, consider going big with a VIP Experience—you’ll get priority access to all attractions, a VIP Host who will let you in on some LEGOLAND secrets, an exclusive tour of the Model Shop, along with a personalized building activity, as well as parent perks like valet parking and a photo package.

Find out more: legoland.com

32. Hoh Rain Forest—Olympic National Park, WA

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No need to venture down to the Amazon in order to experience a rainforest. While Hoh’s major hiking trail doesn’t mess around at 17 miles, your kids may prefer two shorter loops, the Hall of Mosses Trail and Spruce Nature Trail that both clock in at right around a mile. You can camp by the river in the old-growth forest or stay in the town of Forks, which is only an hour away.

Find out more: nps.gov/olym

33. Valley Forge National Historical Park, Philadelphia

Imagine what George Washington and his Continental Army had to endure in the freezing cold winter of 1777. March on over to Valley Forge, where you can tour the park from your car, which features nine audio stops easily accessible from your phone. See Washington’s headquarters, encampments, and barracks that will shed light on important colonial history in this beautiful park setting. When it’s warmer, take a hike or bike through the rolling hills.

Find out more: nps.gov/vafo

34. Grand Canyon—Grand Canyon National Park, AZ

When we talk epic, it's the Grand Canyon, or go home, baby. Jaw-dropping views, impressive hiking and camping, and riding a mule to the canyon floor are all must-do activities.

Find out more: nps.gov/grca

35. Kennedy Space Center – Merritt Island, FL

Rocket fans literally can’t get any closer than this without applying to NASA. At a few miles away, spectators can see and feel the rumble of the spacecraft as it reaches Earth’s orbit. But it’s well worth noting that Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex has more to offer than rockets and launch pads. As part of the Merritt Island National Wildlife Refuge, you may just spot otters and dolphins swimming around and bald eagles sharing the skies with those rockets.

Find out more: kennedyspacecenter.com

36. La Brea Tar Pits – Los Angeles, CA

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Did you know that the world’s most famous ice age fossil excavation site is in the middle of Los Angeles? Yup! Long before the Hollywood sign went up (some 11,000 years before), greater L.A. was home to a mecca of mammals. After checking out the observation pit that’s filled with fossils and watching paleontologists in action, the family can walk over to LACMA, another cultural gem in the heart of L.A.

Find out more: tarpits.org

37. The Gateway Arch—St. Louis, MO

Standing 630 feet tall, this catenary arch is the tallest man-made monument in the Western Hemisphere. Head to the top and spy riverboats cruising along the Mississippi River below, or at night to see the city lights.

Find out more: gatewayarch.com

38. The Alamo—San Antonio, TX

The story of the Alamo dates back to 1700, but much of its history is tied to the 1836 Battle of the Alamo. Known as one of the most pivotal battles in world history, it signifies Texan identity, the fight for liberty and bravery in the face of impossible odds.

Find out more: thealamo.org

39. Death Valley National Park—Death Valley, CA

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The hottest, driest, and lowest of our National Parks, Death Valley is like visiting another planet. Summer temps reach well above 100 degrees and winter often sees snow-dusted mountain peaks. Kids will be amazed to visit the vast salt flats and see all the stars that this dark sky park brings to the naked eye.

Find out more: nps.gov

40. The Freedom Trail—Boston, MA

Follow the red line on the pavement around Boston, and you’ll get a 2.5-mile walking tour of 16 historical sites. The Freedom Trail is a unique collection of museums, churches, meeting houses, burying grounds, parks, a ship, and historic markers that tell the story of the American Revolution and beyond.

Find out more: thefreedomtrail.org

41. The Mall of America—Bloomington, MN

So much more than a shopping mall, the Mall of America houses an aquarium, roller coaster, flight simulation ride, and loads of other family entertainment favorites under one massive roof.

Find out more: mallofamerica.com

42. Glacier National Park—MT

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For a peek at one of the most pristine and beautiful national parks, head to Glacier National Park. Huge glaciers in the last ice age carved out the valleys and lakes there today.

Find out more: nps.gov

43. The Space Needle—Seattle, WA

This beacon in the Seattle skyline is a favorite of tourists and locals alike. At the 500-foot level, you can get a moving 360-degree view of the city below.

44. Angel Island State Park—San Francisco, CA

For a trip to Angel Island, the adventure begins with a ferry ride from San Francisco, the East Bay, or Tiburon. While you take in stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco skyline, and that other famous bay island, Alcatraz, the kids can run wild where the Coast Miwok roamed 2,000 years ago. Get more tips about Angel Island here.

Find out more: parks.ca.gov

45. Manatee Swim—Crystal River, FL

Year-round water temps of 72 degrees? Check. Swim, snorkel or kayak with manatees in their home river? Check again (as long as little splashers are three and up). Learn all about the peaceful, grazing “sea cow” of Florida’s nature coast? Check once more. River Ventures offers the perfect way to introduce younger kids to the thrill of water life without contending with ocean swells or surprise sea creatures.

Find out more: riverventures.com

46. Art Institute of Chicago—Chicago, IL

Expose your kids to classic, world-renowned art like Seurat’s “A Sunday on La Grande Jatte,” Picasso’s “The Old Guitarist”, Hopper’s “Nighthawks” and Wood’s “American Gothic.” Then find their inner child in the Art Institute’s family-friendly programming. With free admission for kids under 14 and Chicago teens under 18, you can make your own work of art in the Family Room or create your own customized family museum tour with JourneyMaker. Check their website for art projects, storytelling, and other activities.

Find out more: artic.edu

47. Yosemite Falls & Yosemite National Park, CA

At over 2,500 feet, Yosemite Falls is the tallest in the country. Lower Yosemite Fall Trail is a paved trail accessible to all ages and takes all of about 30 minutes to stroll so even the newest walkers can hear the power of Upper and Lower Yosemite Falls.

Find out more: nps.gov/yose

48. U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum—Washington, D.C.

With the rise of anti-Semitism across the globe, it is important to educate your children about past genocides as well as current events. The USHMM is an interactive museum that confronts hatred, works to prevent genocide, and promotes human dignity. For young people and their families, “Remember the Children: Daniel’s Story” features one family’s experiences during the Holocaust from the perspective of a boy growing up in Nazi Germany.

Find out more: ushmm.org

The Ultimate Guide to Parenting Groups in the DMV

by Meghan Yudes MeyersMay 26, 2023

Attention, moms on the Hill: Whether you’re a new mom or a seasoned parent, you know the importance of joining a local DC-area moms group to keep you sane—and supported.

You don’t have to be a new parent to need the wit, wisdom and tried-and-true tips of a fellow mom or dad. As the saying goes, it takes a village. And, thankfully, in Washington, DC, there are plenty of villages to join! Whether you’re looking to make new friends or you (desperately) need the expertise of a topic-specific group—from homeschooling to single parenting to juggling multiples or managing complicated childcare scenarios—there’s truly something out there for everyone. Whether you’re looking for an intimate gathering of like-minded mamas or want to crowdsource the advice of 2,000-plus savvy mothers online (hello, 2 a.m. breastfeeding Q&A!), the DC-area moms groups cover the gamut of offerings. Ready to make some mom friends? We rounded up the best mom groups, clubs, and parenting get-togethers in the DMV that will have you connecting with your new village in no time. Dads, you’re welcome, too!

Washington, DC Mom Groups

Parents of Anacostia
Parents of Anacostia (POA) is a network of parents that live in Anacostia and engage in supportive kid-friendly activities. From book clubs, to scavenger hunts, if you are looking for a parenting community in Anacostia, POA will allow you to connect on all things kid-related!

Brookland Kids
With almost 1,000 active members, Brookland Kids is an online meeting place for a diverse range of parents and caregivers in the NE DC area. Whether you’re new to the area, or as a parent, this is an excellent resource for finding support and friendship in your community.

MOMS Club of DC NW
This is the NW DC chapter of MOMS Club International. From book clubs and moms’ nights out to playgroups and fun daytime outings with the kiddos, MOMS Club of NW DC is a great place to connect with other at-home mamas in your community.

Moms (and Dads) on the Hill
Moms on the Hill is a private online forum where parents and parents-to-be in Capitol Hill meet to dish about the latest parenting trends, organize playgroups and family activities, and find new friends in the neighborhood for themselves and their little ones.

TakomaPAKK
Connecting parents in the Takoma Park, Silver Spring, and Prince George’s County areas, TakomaPAKK is a community-run listserv and forum aimed at helping parents find the best options for themselves and their kids. Whether you’re looking for the best local playgrounds, the most kid-friendly coffee meets, or fun family activities in the neighborhood, with more than 2,000 active members this group is sure to deliver.

U Street Tots
For families living in the U Street area of DC, U Street Tots provides an online forum where parents can meet to set up playgroups, plan special events, and dish on everything from pediatricians to preschools. A great tool for connecting with other moms, dads, and kiddos in your neighborhood, this group also supports local organizations that work to improve the community through new development projects.

DuPont Circle Parents
Boasting nearly 800 active members, this group is an online community for parents of infants and toddlers living in the DuPont Circle neighborhood.

Glover Park Moms & Dads
An online forum where Glover Park parents dish about all things kid-related, Glover Park Families is a great resource for meeting others moms and dads in your neighborhood, building lasting friendships for you and your little ones, and discovering new tricks and tips from the group’s 500 active members.

Virginia Mom Groups

MOMS Club of Alexandria-Franconia, VA
Part of the Internationally recognized support group for at-home moms, MOMS (Moms Offering Moms Support) hosts monthly meetings throughout the DC Metro area, including this chapter for Alexandria and Franconia, VA. This group boasts educational and social activities for mamas and their little ones, and contributes to a variety of philanthropic projects throughout the community. An excellent group for meeting fellow moms and introducing your tots to new friends, MOMS Club is one of the most respected and prolific member organizations for mamas in the world, with more than 2,000 chapters in eight countries and more than 100,000 active members worldwide.

MOMS Club of Alexandria NE
This chapter of MOMS (Moms Offering Moms Support) serves at-home mamas and their little ones in the northeast region of Alexandria, VA. Planning all social activities on weekdays when at-home moms need support the most, this group also holds monthly meetings with informative guest speakers, a monthly newsletter, playgroups, community service projects, and much more!

MOMS Club of Alexandria-South
For at-home mamas in south Alexandria, this chapter of MOMS Club offers support, social and educational activities, and a great way to meet fellow moms and new friends for the little ones.

MOMS Club of Annandale
Designed to support at-home moms or working moms with flexible schedules, MOMS Club of Annandale connects mamas to a community of support for themselves and their little ones. Offering weekly social and educational activities, monthly meetings, guest speakers, and special-interest clubs, this group is an excellent resource for moms in need of daytime support, companionship, and community involvement.

MOMS Club of Burke-North
For at-home moms in the Burke-North area of VA., this chapter of MOMS Club International offers monthly meetings with guest speakers, member-hosted get-togethers, holiday events, a babysitting co-op, weekly playgroups, and much, much more!

MOMS Club of Burke-South
Serving at-home moms and little ones in the Burke-South and Fairfax Station areas of VA., this chapter of MOMS Club International offers local mamas a tight-knit community of support. Through monthly meetings, regular playgroups, member-hosted events, and so much more, this group helps moms stay connected with their community - and helps the kiddos meet new playmates!

MOMS Club of Reston, Sterling & Herndon, VA.
This chapter of MOMS Club International was originally Reston based, but has since expanded to include Sterling and Herndon moms. Expect mommy-and-me outings and activities, monthly meetings with guest speakers, special interest clubs, a babysitting co-op, and age-specific playgroups. A fun reason to get out of the house, this group offers a strong community of support and friendship for mamas and their little ones.

MOMS Club Stafford-East, VA.
For at-home moms in the Stafford-East area of VA., this chapter of MOMS Club International offers all the staple services and resource of the club - in your own backyard! Creating a community of friendship and support through a wide range of activities, service projects, and special events, the MOMS Club is a great way for moms and kids alike to meet new friends and discover the best family-friendly fun the area has to offer.

Mothers of North Arlington
For mothers in northern Arlington, MONA offers support, friendship, online message boards, and a range of fun activities for mamas and tots. Hosting monthly socials for current and prospective members, this group is an excellent resource for local moms to meet new friends.

Mothers of South Arlington

Parents who are looking for playdates, babysitter co-ops and meet ups that featured qualified parenting speakers should join this group in South Arlington, VA.

Parenting Playgroups of Falls Church
Located in Falls Church, VA., Parenting Playgroups lives up to his slogan, “Where parents learn and children play.” Featuring workshops for parents and playgroups for kids, this group is a great way to connect with the community and make new friends for you and your little ones.

Vienna Moms, Inc. (VMI)
A support group for both stay-at-home and working moms in Vienna, VA, VMI boasts more than 400 active members and a wide range of social activities. Whether it’s meeting up for a pizza party, a playgroup, or a moms-only night on the town, this group is always planning fun new events the whole family can look forward to!

Maryland Mom Groups

AU Park Parents
For parents who live around American University Park, this online forum is a great resource for connecting with other parents in the neighborhood. Boasting more than 500 active members, you can dish about community news, trade parenting tips, and schedule playdates.

MOMS Club of Bethesda
Part of the international organization, this chapter of MOMS Club is for mamas living in the area of Bethesda, MD. Hosting playgroups and other social events twice weekly, this group also holds monthly meetings, organizes special events for holidays, and participates in various service projects that will help you and your little ones get more involved with the community!

MOMS Club of Chevy Chase-Kensington, MD
This chapter of MOMS Club International serves primarily stay-at-home mamas in the Chevy Chase-Kensington area of MD. Offering meetings, playgroups, fun family activities, and special outings every month, this group has no shortage of things to do for mamas and their little ones!

MOMS Club of Gaithersburg
Geared to at-home mamas in the Gaithersburg area, this imprint of MOMS Club International is an excellent resource for moms looking for friendship, playmates for the kids, or a great reason to get out of the house and explore! With monthly meetings, social and educational activities, and a variety of special events and service projects, this group welcomes Gaithersburg mamas to a fun, nurturing community of support.

MOMS Club of Germantown-South, MD.
With 3-5 kid-friendly activities planned each week, there’s always something to look forward to in this chapter of MOMS Club International. Serving mamas and little ones in the Germantown-South area, the group also hosts monthly meetings, social and educational activities, fun field trips, regular special events, and much, much more!

The Wednesday Morning Group of Montgomery County
Meeting weekly during the Montgomery County school year, the Wednesday Morning Group welcomes parents, grandparents, and empty nesters alike who are looking for support, camaraderie, and intellectual stimulation. Featuring lectures and discussions, this group is great way to connect with other members of the community who share interests in a range of topics, from childrearing and education to literature and current events - and everything in between!

Wheaton Area Moms (WAM)
Welcoming stay-at-home moms and dads in the Wheaton and Silver Spring areas, Wheaton Area Moms meets regularly for playgroups, nature walks, service projects, and so much more! A fun excuse to get you and your little ones out of the house during the day, WAM also offers parents-only nights out and a book club when you need a little time away from the kiddos.

Specialty Mom Groups in the DMV Area

DMV Littles for Single Moms
Single moms come together in this mighty group to share experiences and build a support system and friendships with one another. Expect plenty of playdate options (and the occasional girls night out) across the entire DC metro area.

Mocha Moms
A support group primarily for at-home moms of color with chapters throughout the Metro area, Mocha Moms welcomes any mom who shares its vision to nurture healthy families and communities. Connecting mamas of all backgrounds, income levels, races, and religions, this group empowers women who choose to devote less time in the workplace and more time with their families.

VA Homeschoolers
For VA parents who choose homeschooling for their children, VA Homeschoolers is an excellent resource for connecting with other homeschoolers in your area. Dedicated to spreading awareness, diversity, and advocacy for homeschooling, this group boasts conferences, special events, an online community and resource center, and much more!

DC Autism Parents
Offering community, education, and support to all families in the DC area affected by autism, DC Autism Parents promotes advocacy, awareness, and inclusion through a variety of classes and fun family activities. From barbeques and scenic hikes to mentorship programs and political action committees, this nonprofit organization is a great support system for families dealing with autism.

Parents of Autistic Children of Northern Virginia
For NOVA parents who are looking for extra support and advice on everything from a new diagnosis to IEP strategies. POAC-NoVA offers a community ready to give advice and empower parents on their difficult journey.

P.A.C.E.
For more than 30 years, PACE has delivered on its mission to promote wellbeing for families throughout DC, Northern Virginia and Montgomery County. Offering groups for new and second-time moms, workshops on parenting techniques and infant care, and so much more, PACE is a nonprofit organization that connects moms to a nurturing community of motherhood experts and other like-minded parents.

Parents of Multiples
Providing support, education, and social activities for parents of twins, triplets, or higher-order multiples, Parents of Multiples has chapters in Northern Virginia, Montgomery County, VA, and Central Maryland. Hosting monthly meetings that unite parents, educators, doctors, and other experts in dialogue, this group also offers special events such as consignment sales, moms-only spa days, summer picnics, and much, much more!

Additional reporting by Ayren Jackson-Cannady and Peter Kusnic

17 Hidden Gems in New York That Even Residents Don’t Know About

by Yuliya GeikhmanMarch 22, 2023

Cat cafes, taxidermied animals, secret parks, and a museum dedicated to the NY Fire Department are just a few of our top picks

Sure, everyone’s heard of Central Park, Rockefeller Plaza, and Times Square. But New York City hides many facets just under the surface. If you look beyond the popular attractions and tourist traps, you’ll find everything from perfectly preserved historic houses to quaint fishing villages. Read on to uncover hidden gems NYC has to offer to families who look beyond the obvious—places that even some local New Yorkers might not know about! These largely unknown spots might not get all the tourists and attention, but they’re well worth a visit for families with children who are looking to see another side of NYC.

Hidden Gems in Manhattan

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Escape into a Fairy Tale Garden: The Conservatory Garden
Central Park has many popular attractions you’ve probably heard of. The Conservatory Garden, tucked into the side of the park across the street from El Museo del Barrio, is one of the park’s hidden treasures. The Conservatory Garden is Central Park’s formal garden (shoutout to the more informal Shakespeare Garden by Belvedere Castle, another gem) and consists of six acres of tulips, lilacs, crabapple trees, chrysanthemums, and more. The garden is gorgeous year-round—which makes it a popular choice for wedding photo shoots—but is especially delightful in the spring when the beautiful flowers are in bloom and it’s visited by many different kinds of butterflies.

1233 5th Ave.
Central Park
Online: centralparknyc.org

Visit a Hidden Indoor Park: Ford Foundation Atrium
Step inside the Ford Foundation building in the middle of the bustling city and find yourself in a lush tropical jungle. No, you’re not imagining things—you’ve just stumbled into one of the city’s hidden parks. And the Ford Foundation Atrium is one of the most magical, consisting of over 40 species of trees, vines, and shrubs, as well as a reflecting pool.

This garden is open to the public and also strives to be accessible to as many people as possible: a sensory section encourages people to touch, smell, and interact with the plants (and includes signage in braille) while a wheelchair path winds around most of the garden.

Does this secluded little oasis make you yearn for more? Check out the other hidden parks in NYC, like Amster Yard and Greenacre Park in Midtown and the Elevated Acre in the Financial District.

320 E 43rd St.
Murray Hill
Online: fordfoundation.org

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Peek into a Cabinet of Curiosities: Mmuseumm
Mmuseumm—no, that’s not a typo—is a tiny museum housed in an elevator shaft that takes inspiration from old-style cabinets of curiosities. The museum displays found and made objects of modern origin on floor-to-ceiling displays along three walls. What’s on display varies by season but you can expect to find objects that define the current times.

The Mmuseumm is closed in winter and keeps sporadic hours, but you can stop by any time during its open season to take a peek at the displays—literally, through peepholes made exactly for this purpose.

4 Cortlandt Alley
Chinatown
Online: mmuseumm.com

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Shop for Books Under the Stars: Albertine
Located just south of Museum Mile, Albertine is a one-of-a-kind bookshop. The space, which is part of the Cultural Services of the French Embassy, boasts the largest collection of French-language and translated-from-French books in the United States. This is cause enough to visit if you’re interested in or speak French, but the other real draw is the absolutely gorgeous interior. Head up the stairs to the second floor to find a celestial painting on the ceiling, with deep blues for backdrop and shining gold stars. History buffs, here’s another reason to visit:

The bookstore is located inside the historic Payne Whitney House. Albertine frequently hosts events, talks, and workshops, making it a popular destination among the locals, but often overlooked due to being just outside of the more well-traveled path of the museum mile.

972 5th Ave.
Upper East Side
Online: albertine.com

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Check out Vintage FDNY Artifacts: NYC Fire Museum
New York City is well known for its many excellent museums, and the NYC Fire Museum is one of the lesser-known gems. Head over to see artifacts from the history of the FDNY from the late 18th century through today. In addition to these displays, the museum has a mock household that walks visitors through fire safety in an interactive way.

278 Spring St.
Hudson Square
Online: nycfiremuseum.org

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Discover the Whimsical Sculptures of Tom Otterness: Real World Sculptures Park
You may have seen Tom Otterness’ sculptures in the 14th St., 8th Ave. train station. These little round-headed bronze creatures add a touch of whimsy to the space and are a delight to discover around the station. But few people know that you can find even more of Otterness’ sculptures in this little hidden gem of a park. Part of the larger Rockefeller Park, the Real World Sculptures Park is chock-full of more whimsical sculptures, in displays that seem to paint a picture of a whole different world. It’s a wonderful place for kids to explore and parents to relax in a park in the shade.

River Terrace and Chambers St.
Battery Park City
Online: tomotterness.net

Hidden Gems in Brooklyn

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Play in a Super Sweet Playground: Domino Park
Domino Park’s name hints at its history: The park stands on the site of the former Domino Sugar Refinery. The style is also a nod to its history, featuring one of the most unique playgrounds in NYC with an industrial feel and huge slides. The whole family can enjoy the space, too, thanks to an elevated walkway that offers waterfront views and a peek across the river at Manhattan. In the summer, the park has two water features to help keep cool, while ongoing development has more fun planned for the future of the site.

15 River St.
Williamsburg
Online: dominopark.com

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Fight Crime in Style: Brooklyn Superhero Supply Co.
This superhero supply store is a must for any crime fighters, both aspiring and current. You’ll find everything a hero might need here, from costumes and cool shirts to superpowers and gadgets! This store provides a fun treasure hunt for any superhero-loving kid or kid-at-heart. And by shopping here, you’re actually contributing to a good cause: The store is run by 826NYC, a nonprofit dedicated to helping kids ages 6-18 boost their writing skills and empower them to utilize their creativity.

372 5th Ave.
Park Slope
Online: superherosupplies.com

Marvel at Taxidermied Animals and Jewish History: Torah Animal World
The Living Torah Museum is an appointment-only museum that serves up a unique experience, to say the least. Inside this small residence, you’ll find artifacts from Jewish history and the Torah. It contains a wealth of information and history and is definitely a must-visit if you want to learn more about the culture and history of Jewish religious texts.

But it’s also a chance to step into Torah Animal World, a collection of taxidermied animals that were mentioned in the Torah. The experience includes an explanation of where these animals can be found in the religious texts, and a chance to see lions, zebras, snakes, and other real animals up close and personal.

1601 41st St.
Borough Park
Online: livingtorahmuseum.com

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Eat Insta-worthy Toast Art: Davelle
Davelle’s name and location don’t give away its true nature: a Japanese-style kissaten (cafe). At Davelle, the presentation is part of the meal. From a beautifully hand-drawn menu to Instagram-worthy gorgeous toasts and meals, this is one of those rare times that the dish you get will look exactly like the pictures on the menu! This makes eating here a feast for both the stomach and eyes.

The space isn’t widely known but it’s beloved by locals so you may need to show up early to snag a seat.

102 Suffolk St.
Lower East Side
Online: davellenewyork.com

Hidden Gems in the Bronx

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Eat Authentic Italian Dishes: Arthur Avenue Market
When you hear the name “Little Italy,” you might not immediately think of the Bronx. But the Arthur Avenue Market is one of the best places in NYC to find authentic Italian meals and goods. Dubbed “the Real Little Italy,” Arthur Avenue is the place to go for Italian baked goods, fish and meats, pasta, mozzarella, and so much more. Plus, head into the Arthur Avenue Market for a real treat: an indoor market full of vendors selling fresh and baked goods.

2396 Arthur Ave. and the surrounding area
Belmont
Online: arthuravenuebronx.com

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Explore a Fishing Village: City Island
This one might not be a hidden gem, per se—you may have at least heard of it. But it’s certainly not at the top of people’s lists to visit when heading to NYC, and many New Yorkers have never actually been to the island. This little fishing island is a stone’s throw away from Pelham, but it has a completely different atmosphere. Head there for fresh seafood—fished up and cleaned right in front of you! Explore boat and yacht clubs, eat at a delectable seafood restaurant, or just settle down on a bench and enjoy the calm atmosphere and water views.

Island in the Long Island Sound
Accessible by bridge at City Island Rd
Online: cityislandchamber.org

Hidden Gems in Queens

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Enjoy Authentic Vegetarian South Indian Foods: Temple Canteen
The Temple Canteen is housed inside a Hindu temple, which is worth a visit simply to bask in its absolute beauty. Head downstairs to find this informal food hall, whose menu consists of authentic vegetarian and vegan South Indian meals and treats at ridiculously affordable prices. While you’re there, stop by the gift shop, or order some food to go and bring the goodness home with you!

45-57 Bowne St.
Flushing
Online: canteen.nyganeshtemple.org

Hidden Gems in Staten Island

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Sample Grandmother’s Cooking from Around the World: Enoteca Maria
Have a hankering for some of grandmother’s cooking? Enoteca Maria can fill that hole in your heart with real at-home cooking. Every weekend, they bring in a different grandmother from around the world to present their culture’s cooking. (During the week, they have their own resident Nonna cooking up down-home Italian meals). This means that every time you stop by, you’ll have a chance to sample a different culture’s authentic meals, with a frequently rotating and changing menu.

You can even bring some of this wholesome goodness to your own kitchen thanks to the Nonnas of the World project, which is a virtual cookbook of grandma’s cooking, put together by the community.

27 Hyatt St.
St. George
Online: enotecamaria.com

All Around the City!

Visit New York’s Historic Houses Through the Historic House Trust
From Edgar Allan Poe’s cottage in the Bronx to the last remaining lighthouse in Manhattan, the houses and landmarks under the protective umbrella of the Historic House Trust are maintained in their original historic states. While some are more interesting for hardcore history buffs, others hold special family days and children’s events that introduce kids to history in approachable ways.

For instance, the King Manor in Brooklyn holds a free family program on the first and third Saturdays of each month. This program, called Hands-on History, uses historic-themed arts, crafts, and storytelling to see current events and holidays from a historic lens.

Online: historichousetrust.org

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Snuggle up with Some (Adoptable!) Kitties: NYC’s Cat Cafes
Did you know that NYC has cat cafes? Yep—three of them! These provide a purrfect family getaway whether you can’t have pets in your building, you want the benefits of petting a warm purring creature without the stress of caring for them full time, or you just feel like a change from your own cat (don’t worry, we won’t tell him!).

Plus, all the cafes work in collaboration with animal shelters, which means that if you find yourself bonding with a particularly friendly feline, you can apply to adopt her!

NYC currently has three operating cat cafes:

Meow Parlour
46 Hester St.
Lower East Side
Online: meowparlour.com

Koneko
26 Clinton St.
Lower East Side
Online: konekonyc.com

The Brooklyn Cat Cafe
76 Montague St.
Brooklyn Heights
Online: catcafebk.com

Seek Out All the Space Invaders
If you are a fan of street art, you may know about the French artist who goes by the name Invader. He’s responsible for dropping tile mosaic Space Invaders throughout the world and there are quite a few in New York. These often get removed so you can’t totally guarantee where you’ll find them but there’s a good list here and you can even sign up for a custom walking tour to check them out! Download the FlashInvaders app and get points for finding these around the city.

20 Baby Memory Books & Journals You’ll Love

by Jane PutnumAugust 15, 2022

With these baby memory books, you’ll have those special memories forever

We all want our baby’s milestones and photos to be recorded in beautiful baby memory books. But actually doing it…can feel like a chore. But not with these memory keepers! From easy-to-use apps to books with written prompts, you’ll find the right format for you below.

Inclusive for All Families

With neutral language about families and holidays from several religions included (just remove the ones that don't apply to your family), the RubyRoo Baby Memory Book Baby Journal tries to make itself inclusive to all families. The book covers pregnancy to age 5 and covers milestones, vacations, celebrations and more, including six blank pages for photos and memories specific to your family. There are three covers to choose from: floral, woodland and adventure-themed.

Available at Amazon, $25.

Tinybeans Photo Book

Don't lose any of those special memories! Keep them preserved in a Tinybeans photo book. You'll love looking back at the memories and the book is so easy to create.

Available at Tinybeans, $20.

Three Years of Memories

Document the first three years of your child's life with this handy baby book. In addition to space to record the basics about your birth and family, there are lots of fun prompts about your home, baby's visitors, daily routines at different ages, favorite activities, holiday celebrations, and friends. There's an expandable pocket at the back of the book for storing keepsakes, with an elastic enclosure to keep things all together.

Available at Quarto Knows, $23.

Gender-Neutral & Gorgeous

This gender-neutral journal covers your pregnancy and the first year of baby's life in style, with a linen cover, gold embossed title, illustrated end pages and a linen box to store the book in. The guided journal features prompts you'll look forward to filling out, including favorite toys, funny things baby is doing and memorable moments for each month.

Available at Write To Me Shop, $65.

Go Beyond the Book

This baby memory book from C.R. Gibson, "A Book of Baby's Firsts," includes a washable-ink pad so you can document and remember just how teeny your baby's feet and hands were. The Bundle Bright line also includes the smaller and very Instagrammable "Our Magical Memories" ($11), which comes with 25 flippable cards you fill in with baby's milestones. Pages can be rearranged however you like.

Available at Amazon, $21.

Helpful Photo Prompts

In addition to lots of space for your photos, this interactive photo journal from Artifact Uprising includes written photo prompts to help you tell your child's story: bath time snaps, favorite spots to snuggle, the day baby met special people. Thanks to the four-ring binder, you can rearrange or remove any pages that don't work for your family. The customizable construction also means you can add extra pages where you want them.

Available at Artifact Uprising, $99.

Focus on the Family

When We Became Three documents mom and dad's relationship and pregnancy as well as the milestones for baby's first and second year. And yes, there is a When We Became Four book. Clever questions and checklists make this book fun for couples to fill out, which is a big plus for busy new parents.

Available at Amazon, $10.

A Walk on the Wild Side

Record the first 12 months of baby's life with National Geographic's Welcome Little One keepsake baby book. In addition to spots to record baby's amazing milestones, the book includes cute animal photos, heartwarming poems and quotes, and stickers for each monthly milestone. This is one book you and your child will love to page through for years to come.

Available at Amazon, $18.

Time Machine

Share with your little one what the world was like when they were born with This Is Your Book, by graphic artist and father Ryan Maconochie. In addition to recording baby’s vitals with sleek visuals, this book includes prompts about current events, pop culture, your favorite things and musings on baby, like which names you scratched off the list.

Available at Amazon, $18.

The Total Package

The Story of You has thought of everything new parents could want in a baby book. There are prompts you can fill out (about pregnancy, funny moments, and holiday memories), plus open spaces to record special moments and add photos as you like. The binder format lets you add, remove and reorder pages. And you can buy additional pages to record circumstances such as adoption, foster care, a NICU stay, infertility, and a heavenly baby.

Available at Emily Ley, $64.

Scrapbook App

No matter how far away your loved ones are, they can feel like they are with you for all of baby’s firsts with the free Moment Garden app. All those precious moments are backed up and kept private for you to share with those you choose. Want a physical book too? Print a hardcover or softcover book whenever you like.

Available at Moment Garden; the app is free, and a book costs $9-$49.

Black-and-White Dream

The Dreamcatcher black-and-white baby book from Etsy shop Mushybooks offers a sleek, gender-neutral design. Its 50 pages include all the moments you would expect from a baby book (birth story, firsts, favorites. etc.) with an aesthetic that's clean and simple so your baby can shine. Pages can be added or removed as desired.

Available at Etsy shop Mushybooks, $75+.

Mini Brag Book

Take photo books to tiny dimensions with Minibooks from Social Print Studio. Compile all your favorite baby photos into laminated, spiral-bound photo books. Slip them into your purse or pocket, so you always have pictures of mini-you to share with friends and family. This makes a great gift idea for grandparents too!

Available at Social Print Studio, 2 books for $21.

Not-So-Precious Moments

Take a non-traditional approach to memorykeeping and celebrate all of those alternative baby moments with Baby’s First Tattoo, by Jim Mullen. With this humorous approach to baby books, you'll never forget those other important moments, like: baby’s first tantrum in a crowded grocery store or places baby crawls that parents didn’t think possible.

Available at Amazon, $13.

Box It Up

Not every baby milestone fits into a book. The fabric boxes of The Library: Baby Keepsake Box can be displayed like books but hold so much more than a traditional tome. In this handcrafted memory box, you can save baby’s favorite blanket, a lock of hair, the first pair of shoes and more. There are even vertical files for important documents or photos.

Available at Savor, $95.

Email Reminders

Do you have trouble remembering to jot down those milestones? My Own Little Story is an online baby book that offers free email reminders to help you keep track of baby’s special moments. It even has a snooze button for those milestones baby hasn’t hit yet. Print your book once you have 10 milestones, or wait to create a larger book with up to 36 milestones or 72 printed pages.

Available at My Own Little Story, $30-$79.

Easy Phone Photos

Chatbooks took a candid look at the craziness that is motherhood and offered a supremely simple solution to printing photos from your phone. The app will automatically arrange your photos in chronological order for you. All you have to do is add captions and pick your cover to capture all of baby’s special moments.

Available at Chatbooks; $5+.

Nature's Approach

With an emphasis on your baby’s interactions with the natural world, The First 1000 Days: A Baby Journal by Nikki McClure lets you record your baby’s birth story as well as their first tree, moon and garden. The bold papercut illustrations will captivate even the youngest eyes.

Available at Amazon, $17.

A Noteworthy Book

The Mom's One Line a Day book simplifies the baby book by letting moms write one short note a day to document an event, experience or that day's feelings. With room for five years' worth of notes, you can document the magic of your little one's early years without too much effort.

Available at Amazon, $13.

Love Letters

Letters to My Baby allows you to write your child letters about your hopes, dreams and memories. Once written, you seal them until your child is old enough to read them. There are prompts for each of the 12 letters to help you craft what you write.

Available at Amazon, $12.

The Guilt-Free Baby Book

No need to spend countless hours creating a scrapbook-like memory book because this book from Lucy Darling has done the work for you. Available in a variety of themes, there's space to document firsts, favorites and monthly milestones amid beautifully designed pages.

Available at Lucy Darling, $35+.

You can easily organize all your sweetest family moments—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.

The Ultimate Guide to Seattle’s Free (& Cheap) Museum Days

by Dhyana LeveyJuly 30, 2022

Seattle is home to some of the finest museums in the country. But you know what makes them even better? When you can find free or cheap museum days. With summer days in full swing, now’s a great time to get the kids out of the house and save money, too. From Free First Thursdays and Third Thursdays to special deals and discounts, we’ve compiled a list of affordable (read: free or cheap) museum days you’ll want to put on your calendar. Read on to make your next playdate plan at one of our favorite local museums.

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Children's Museums

KidsQuest Children’s Museum (Bellevue)
Children ages 1 and younger always get in free.
Active military members (with ID) receive 20 percent off of general admission from Armed Forces Day to Memorial Day. Admission is always free for Gold Star military families.

Within this awesome museum you'll find a water gallery with a toddler specific splash zone, an "On the Go" gallery with a big rig semi-truck cab, a "Sticks and Stones" outdoor gallery, a story tree gallery, a two-story climber, an art studio and a special place for kids up to age 3 to explore, complete with a quiet nursing area. We apologize if you have to drag your kids away at closing time, and remember timed ticket entry is still SOP here.

Seattle Children's Museum (Seattle)
Children ages 1 and younger always get in free.
Show your qualifying military ID for a $2 discount.
The Museums for All rate is $3 per person with proof of participation in the following programs: EBT, CHIP, Provider One or WIC.

Located in the shadow of the Space Needle, the Seattle Children's Museum boasts more than 18,000 square feet of play space for kids ages 10 months to 10 years. There you can find plenty of hands-on exhibits to explore as well as daily educational programs, story times and art activities that are free with the cost of admission.

Kids Discovery Museum (Bainbridge Island)
Free first Friday Art Walk from 3-7 p.m.
Children ages 1 and younger always get in free.
The Museums for All rate is $3 per person with proof of participation in the following programs: EBT, CHIP, Provider One or WIC or foster families.
KiDiMu also offers a special Museums for All membership for just $30 annually.

This small but mighty kids’ museum rocks a giant Lite Brite, Mission to Moon, Rigamajig, Nature Microscope, and all the around-the-town exhibits kids can't seem to get enough of like a grocery store, bank and and vet clinic. Plus it's fun to get there by taking a ferry from Seattle. Downtown Bainbridge is also just steps away, as well as the always free Bainbridge Island Museum of Art, so you can easily make a day of it.

Imagine Children’s Museum (Everett)
Editor's note: This museum is closed for renovations through August. Keep an eye on the website for the reopening date.

Children ages 1 and younger always get in free.
Receive free admission every third Friday of the month from 5:30-9 p.m.
The Museums for All rate is $3 per person with proof of participation in the EBT program.
Military families receive free admission on various dates throughout the year.

Come to the Imagine Children's Museum where your kids can find fun activities like Art Rocks, i-engineers and Cartoon Corner to keep them busy. If that's not enough, send them exploring throughout Imagine's two floors that come complete with a rooftop playground and a treehouse. It's totally tops.

Hands On Children’s Museum (Olympia)
Children ages 17 months and younger always get in free.
Pay just $1 to play on the first Friday night of the month.
The Museums for All rate allows the first two guests in free (pay $2 for each additional guest) with proof of participation in the EBT program.
For qualifying families who want the benefits of Annual Membership, Hands On offers an Access Membership Program for $25.

With more than 150 hands-on exhibits spread over two floors and an Outdoor Discovery Center, you can’t really go wrong at this Olympia museum. Little museum-goers might never want to leave once they spot the Built It! center, Fabulous Forest and the Tides to Trees Climber. And if that's the case, here's how to make a weekend out of it in Olympia.

Children’s Museum of Tacoma
Take advantage of pay-as-you-will admission that's always offered when the museum is open to the public (10 a.m.-1 p.m. and 1:30-4 p.m., Thursdays through Sundays.) Member-only hours are from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 2 p.m. to 5 p.m on Mondays and from from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. on Saturdays.

In a space along Tacoma's museum district, this bright and cheery museum boasts a large (and very clean) water table, a fantastically fun art studio, a climbable vessel reminiscent of an airplane-treehouse-fort with a total steam punch vibe and a new arty climber that's challenging for older kids. Check out their low-sensory hours on Fridays, from 1:30-4 p.m. for a quieter playtime if you've got kids with sensory sensitivities.

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Museums About History

Burke Museum (University of Washington)
3 & under are always free.
Free every first Thursday from 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Do you dig fossils? Then you've gotta check out the Burke Museum of Natural History and Culture. First of all, you'll see scientists at work—they're actually on display. Little white boards posted at the large windows will tell you what they are up to and in same cases, you'll be invited inside. Plus family spaces allow your Littles to climb, crawl, look, touch and ultimately learn as they explore. Kids can climb on an orca whale, investigate a large log, explore a tide pool, board a Northwest Indian canoe, check out a research tent and dress up like animals and see how well they blend in at the "camouflage corner." When hunger strikes, head to Off the Rez for handmade frybread, Indian tacos, wild rice bowls, salads and espresso beverages.

The Museum of History and Industry - MOHAI (South Lake Union)
14 & under are always free with a paying adult; maximum 5 youth admitted per adult.
Free every first Thursday from 5-8 p.m.

Bring the kids to South Lake Union to learn about the area's history at MOHAI where all the permanent exhibits are free on First Thursdays. Grab an Exploration Pack (designed for kids ages 3-7) filled with activities, puzzles, books and more or an Innovation Pack (designed for kids ages 7-10), filled with gear, to help kids use creative thinking as they explore the museum. Both are free with adult museum admission, so this means they’re totally free for kids. Don't forget to hit up the Kid-Struction Zone when you visit. It's tops with toddlers. Psst... the free Lake Union Photo Scavenger Hunt is happening this month too.

Klondike Gold Rush Museum (Pioneer Square)
Always free for everyone.
Open daily from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. During the summer, from mid-June through Labor Day, the Visitor Center opens one hour earlier, at 9 a.m.

If you have a family of history buffs, you don’t want to miss this little nugget (see what we did there?) of a museum located in Pioneer Square and close to the International District and its plethora of restaurants. Not too crowded, with Park Rangers ready to answer your questions—this is a fun little museum run by the National Parks (who knew?) right in our backyard.

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Art Museums

Seattle Art Museum (Downtown Seattle)
Children ages 14 and younger always get in free.
The Chase Open Studio and Ann P. Wyckoff Education Resource Center are always free (Editor's note: these spaces remain closed).
Free first Thursdays are from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

If your kid has a complete art library of their own, The Seattle Art Museum is where you'll want to take them. The museum hosts a variety of family events, although many remain paused due to Covid. Outdoor programs like Summer at SAM give families the opportunity to explore art and nature together. But we know your kids will love the Alberto Giacometti: Toward the Ultimate Figure on display through October.

Henry Art Gallery (University of Washington)
Free first Thursdays are from 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Every Sunday is free from 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
UW students, faculty and staff along with students and kids are always free.

The Henry stokes imagination by introducing kids and families to contemporary art and culture through interactive art experiences. Inspired by current exhibitions, the museum offers family programs that are especially designed for adults and children to consider new ways of thinking while learning and creating together.

Bellevue Arts Museum
Children ages 6 and younger always get in free.
Students get in free each second Wednesday of the month using the online coupon.

The Bellevue Arts Museum (BAM) helps to engage hands and minds alike with their kids & family programs that include free family days, workshops and more. Imagination Stations are located throughout the museum, allowing you to get hands-on with your own arty ideas.

Seattle Asian Art Museum (Capitol Hill)
Children ages 14 and younger are always free.
Free last Fridays are from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

The recently-reimagined Seattle Asian Art Museum groups art by theme, rather than country, and offers guests expanded exhibit areas, education spots and a lovely walkway that connects this impressive Art Deco building to Volunteer Park's many other amenities. Don't miss the public programs at its Garden Center, which shares a range of artistic expression through performances, films and events with visual artists.

Bainbridge Island Museum of Art (Bainbridge Island)
Always free for everyone each day from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

This awesome museum is located on beautiful Bainbridge Island, just a 35-minute ferry ride from Seattle and a five-minute walk from the ferry terminal. The museum offers group visits, lectures and panel discussions as well as a film series, publications and hands-on art experiences for a range of ages and audiences. BIMA has a small but growing Permanent Art Collection including various media such as painting, printmaking, photography, sculpture, ceramics, glass, wood, artist’s books, fiber and jewelry art.

Olympic Sculpture Park (Seattle Waterfront)
Always free for everyone each day.
Park is open 30 minutes prior to sunrise until 30 minutes after sunset.
PACCAR Pavilion is open each day from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. during spring and summer.

If your kids get squirrely in museums, take them to Seattle’s coolest outdoor art exhibit. OSP is home to awesome sculptures, giant art and interactive beauty. It's also a great way to get your tykes appreciating art without needing to shush them every two minutes. Plus, the unparalleled view (and lots of room to spread out a picnic blanket) is reason in itself to plan a visit.

Frye Art Museum (First Hill)
Always free for everyone, Wednesday through Sunday, 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

Check out the Museum's Human Nature, Animal Culture: Selections from the Frye Art Museum Collection, which examines how we use animals to nourish our bodies, carry our belongings and become our companions. While we look at science for solutions to address the climate change that impacts them, we also turn to art to understand our past, present and future relationships with our fellow creatures.

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Museums for Culture

National Nordic Museum (Ballard)
Children ages 4 and younger always get in free.
Free First Thursday of the month from 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

If there’s a Viking in your family, check out the Museum's Nordic Journeys exhibit which is a hands-on, kid-friendly display about the immigration story from the "old country” to the United States, then Seattle and to Ballard.

Northwest African American Museum (Southeast Seattle)
(Editor's note: Until further notice, the museum is operating virtually and in pop-ups only until it reopens its onsite operations.)
Children ages 3 younger always get in free.
Free every first Thursday of the month from 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Offers admission by donation days (often coincides with our large community events like MLK Day).

The exhibits and programs at this museum feature the visual arts, music, crafts, literature and history of African Americans in the Northwest. Together with the community, the museum presents and preserves the connections between the Pacific Northwest and people of African descent and investigates and celebrates Black experiences in America. Be sure to keep an eye on their events calendar for special events and programs throughout the year for families, such as interactive storytime and the Knowledge is Power Book Giveaways.

Wing Luke Museum of the Asian Pacific American Experience (International District, Seattle)
Children ages 5 and younger always get in free.
Museums for All discounts offer free admission for up to five guests with an EBT card.
Show your qualifying military ID for a $2 discount.

Visit this museum to connect with the dynamic history, culture and art of Asian Americans, native Hawaiians and Pacific Islanders through storytelling and experiences meant to advance racial and social equity. Youth ages 10 to 14 years old should check out the free art program Teensway, which explores heritage and community through various art techniques led by teaching artists and museum staff. And keep an eye on the events calendar for upcoming family-friendly events.

Insider tip: Most of the kids' exhibits feature interactive elements such as videos, sounds and games, sure to please your whole brood.

MoPOP (Museum of Pop Culture) (Seattle)
Children ages 4 younger always get in free.
The Museums for All discount is available with proof of EBT participation.
The museum is also a Community Access Partner, which offers free or reduced-cost entry.

MoPOP is an ever-changing museum offering insights on everything from music, video games, movies, sports and more. While there is something for everyone here, we recommend MoPOP for families with older kids who can appreciate Sci-fi wonders and Fantasy worlds. Just about every kid (and parent who wished that they had become a rock star) will love the Sound Lab where they can actually learn to play different band instruments in a matter of minutes. We think everyone will love the Ruth E. Carter: Afrofuturism in Costume Design exhibit that just opened in late June.

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Transportation Museums

The Museum of Flight (Boeing Field)
Children ages 4 and younger always get in free.
Receive free admission the first Thursday of each month from 5 p.m.-9 p.m.
Discounted tickets are available for active military and veterans, Boeing employees and AAA members.

Check out the Museum's Apollo 17 Lunar Module Ascent Stage Mock-up exhibit where you can land the Apollo lunar module, or walk through a full-sized replica of the International Space Station’s Destiny Research Lab. Weekend Family Workshops offer hands-on experiences exploring science, engineering and aerospace topics for the whole family on Saturdays and Sundays. The Museum of Flight Tower at Boeing Field is always a hit with future airplane pilots, and hearing the King County International Airport air traffic controllers in real-time is pretty darn awesome, too. But the current draw at this area favorite has got to be the Walt Disney Studios & WWII retrospective that will delight both parents and kids.

The Center for Wooden Boats (South Lake Union & Camano Island)
Always free for everyone.
Open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 a.m.-7 p.m.

Believing that everyone should have access to maritime heritage, The Center for Wooden Boats' Floating Boathouse Gallery (Seattle) highlights four unique and historic wooden boat designs that enjoy a permanent place in the CWB collection. Toy Boat Building classes for kids and adults are offered at the Cama Beach location each Saturday from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. And we're all hoping the tugboat storytime and pond boat rentals return to Seattle soon. While we wait, consider renting a free pea pod boat with the kids.

Northwest Railway Museum (Snoqualmie)
The Depot and grounds are always free.
Railway History Campus is $10/adult, $5/child, ages 2 to 12.

In 1981, the Northwest Railway Museum rehabilitated and restored the Snoqualmie Depot back to its 1890s appearance giving kids a better idea on what travel was like for their grandparents. If you want to go for a ride, Scenic Train Rides take place during special events in July, October and December and on weekends April through October. Moms, dads and grandparents can take advantage of free train rides (with a paying kid) on Mother’s Day, Father’s Day and Grandparent's Day weekends. View the special events calendar online.

The Hydroplane and Raceboat Museum (Kent)
Children ages 6 and younger always get in free.

Kids love to watch the hydros during Seafair, but did you know they can visit them anytime? Climb into an actual hydro or just check out all the cool boats and memorabilia on display at The Hydroplane and Raceboat Museum, our nation's only public museum dedicated solely to powerboat racing.

Good to Know

Did you know you can get free museum passes with your Seattle Public Library card or your King County Library card? You can! Print out your totally free passes to places like SAM, MoPOP and The Museum of Flight and get exploring. And don’t forget, Smithsonian Magazine is celebrating its 18th annual Museum Day next month. Families can get in for free at 12 museums around the state.

—Jeffrey Totey, Kristina Moy & Erin Cranston

7 Podcasts That Curious Kids Will Love

by Gabby CullenJuly 26, 2022

Forget YouTube. For kids who need all the answers (and need them now), try a podcast! Whatever piques their curiosity, you’ll be able to find a program that will not only educate but will also entertain your precocious humans. From NPR’s popular podcast to story-telling programs, here are our top picks for podcasts that are perfect for curious kids.

Wow in the World

NPR’s popular show, hosted by Mindy Thomas and Guy Raz, will have you following along on adventures throughout the world and tackling topics like animals, science and technology. Throw in hilarious voices and silly humor, and you’ll be begging for the next episode as much as your littles.

Ages 5+

Cost: Free

Get more info here and listen on multiple streaming platforms, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

But Why: A Podcast for Curious Kids

It might just be the most dreaded question a kid can ask a parent, and this bi-weekly show could be your saving grace. The hosts take questions that have complex answers (think “Why is the sky blue?”) and break them down in a kid-friendly way. There are also kid-submitted questions, and experts explain with interesting, uncomplicated answers.

Ages: All ages

Cost: Free

Get more info here and listen on multiple streaming platforms, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Brains On

This is a similar show to But Why, but this one tends to skew a bit older and has a different kid co-host every week. The experts still answer the kid-submitted science questions, but there’s a nice combo of silliness and insight, too.

Ages: 8 & up.

Cost: Free

Get more info here and listen on multiple streaming platforms, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Greeking Out

Is your kiddo interesting in Greek mythology? National Geographic's podcast for kids "Greeking Out" tells some of the greatest tales of heroes, Gods, and humans in this engaging series of stories adapted for little ears. Think Prometheus, Heracles, the Muses, and many more.

Ages: 6 & up

Cost: Free

Find out more here , and subscribe here.

Newsy Pooloozi

This podcast covers everything from tech and culture to arts, current events and science. And the correspondents are kids from all over the world, so listeners get information that's created just for them, presented by kids just like them.

Ages: 7 & up

Cost: Free

Learn more here and subscribe on your favorite platform including Apple, Spotify, Pandora and more.

The Past & the Curious

It’ll remind you of Drunk History (minus the alcohol), as this podcast tells little-known stories from history with an emphasis on fun and humor. We love the fact that there’s also a quiz, so your curious kids will learn something new, too.

Ages: 7 & up

Cost: Free

Get more info here and listen on multiple streaming platforms, including Apple Podcasts and Spotify.

Purple Rocket Audio Adventures

This show tells a new story every episode, and there are nuggets of knowledge sprinkled throughout each one. Discover exactly how tricky it is to hatch a dinosaur egg, find out how far you can get into the universe on a Space Train and what happens when your grandpa's magic globe can transport you to other countries all over the world.

Ages: 5 & up

Cost: Free

Find out more here and subscribe via Apple Podcasts.

San Diego’s Top Beaches for Babies, Toddlers & Big Kids

by Aimee Della BittaJuly 20, 2022

Living in a destination community definitely has its perks, and claiming some the best beaches in the country tops the list. But for families with babies and toddlers to those with teens and beyond, which beach is best for you and your brood? We’ve scoured the coast for the best destination for every type of family excursion. So whether you’re putting on a wetsuit to catch a wave, want to comb the shore for seashells, explore SoCal tide pools, or frolic with Fido—here’s everything you need to know about which San Diego beach you should visit.

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Best Beach for Watersports: Tamarack State Beach

A favorite of the older kid set, Tamarack State Beach is a must for kiddos who want to go all in and take the plunge into ocean sports and swimming. Surfers and boogie boarders alike will find plenty of waves to catch. Rumor has it that you'll also catch a stunning sunset from this locale.

Good to Know: Pack snacks or a picnic as there are no concession stands or nearby restaurants.

Between Garfield St. & Carlsbad Blvd.
Online: visitcarlsbad.com

Best Beach for Collecting Seashells: Frazee Beach

At the foot of Carlsbad Village, Frazee Beach is a good summer go-to spot. This beach has it all: soft, sandy beaches that are a little less crowded, lifeguards, showers and bathrooms. And a perk for the athlete? A volleyball court.

Good to Know: The small parking lot is always crowded, so head to the surface streets for free parking about a block away. If you’re hungry, grab a bite at Board & Brew (you’ll love the Chicken Club with secret sauce).

3150 Ocean St.
Carlsbad
Online: californiabeaches.com

Best Beach for Soft Shimmering Sand: Coronado Beach

best beaches in San Diego — Bonnie Taylor

Rated as on of the "10 Best Beach Towns," Coronado is a beachgoer's dream. Picture miles of white, sparkling sand (it has a gold, glittery effect due to the mineral, mica) and a slow-slope into the ocean makes for rolling waves and primo sand castle building. The ultimate life’s a beach party beach, little ones can keep busy tide pooling in front of the Hotel Del Coronado (sometimes there’s even a guide to point out various sea creatures). Keep an eye out for the Sandcastle Man—often seen building elaborate, stunning sand castle creations that are totally Instagram-worthy.

Good to Know: You can park for free along Ocean Blvd.—if you're lucky enough to score a spot! After a day at the beach, head to dinner at the Coronado Brewing Company by the ferry terminal—guaranteed good food, great kids meals and thirst-quenching craft brews.

Ocean Blvd.
Coronado
Online: coronadovisitorcenter.com

Best Beach for Camping: San Elijo State Beach

Looking for more than just a day at the beach? Pitch a tent or bring your RV and park it in one of the designated spots at San Elijo State Beach. Located 40 miles north of San Diego, this spot has the most perfect pure, unobstructed views of the Pacific Ocean. It's a great spot to gather with family and friends because there is ample room to set up camp. You're also close enough to Cardiff-by-the-Sea, Solana Beach and Encinitas if you need to grab something (ahem, extra marshmallows for those s'mores!). The campgrounds come equipped with fire rings, picnic tables and showers. Looking for more beach camping spots? Check out Campland in Mission Bay and South Carlsbad State Beach.

Good to Know: Plan ahead, reservations are available up to six months in advance. Standard campsites are $35/night.

2050 S. Coast Hwy. 101
Cardiff
Online: parks.ca.gov

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Best Beaches to Bring Fido: Fiesta Island Dog Park

The winner of Best Dog Beach in the U.S. just happens to be right here in San Diego. Fiesta Island Dog Park is an expansive sandy island in Mission Bay, where doggies can run free among the sand dunes and take a dip in the calmer Bay water. It's a great spot for families who want a big space and lots of convenience.

Other beaches we love to bring our four-legged friend? Del Mar Dog Beach beach and OB Dog Beach (also known as the OG dog beach because it was one of the first ever leash-free dog beaches in America) are also other great options for your favorite beach-lovin', four-legged companion.

590 E. Mission Bay Dr.
San Diego
Online: sandiego.gov

Best Beach to Build Sandcastles: Cardiff Reef Beach

Cardiff Reef Beach is located in the beautiful neighborhood of Cardiff by the Sea. This gently sloping beach is great for families with young kids. Here you can collect shells, walk in the water, soak up the sun and build sandcastles. The beach has restroom facilities and lifeguards are on duty at various times.

Good to Know: Parking can be tricky during peak hours, so come prepared to scout out a spot or try to stop by at off-times.

Old Highway 101
Cardiff by the Sea
Online: parks.ca.gov

Best Beach to Catch the Sunset: Moonlight Beach

Hands down, Moonlight Beach in Encinitas, is an absolute favorite among local families. Rooted in history (the name "moonlight" traces back to the early 1900s when residents used to have midnight picnics on the beach) and rich with local flair, this is a beach that begs you to play all day and relax while watching the sun set in the evening. In addition to updated bathrooms and a buzzing snack shack, there's a play structure at the park for those who want a little extra entertainment. Lifeguards are on duty during designated hours.

Good to Know: If you want to avoid the crowds, especially during the summer months, venture to the far north end of this beach.

400 B St.
Encinitas
Online: parks.ca.gov

Best Beach for a Quintessential Summer Day: La Jolla Shores

The sand. The sparkling water. The relatively clean bathrooms and showers! They don't call it "The Crown Jewel" for nothing! La Jolla Shores beach is a breathtaking place to spend the day with friends and family. Located on the southern end of La Jolla Underwater Park, this kid-friendly beach offers gentle bay-like waters and a sandy ocean bottom for pint-sized swimmers. Kellogg Park, with its awesome jungle gym and swings offers a grassy place to start or end your day. Looking for a local place to grab a bite to eat near the beach? Grab food to-go from The Cheese Shop and try one of their mouthwatering sandwiches and a homemade cookie. These days are what summer is all about.

Good to Know: Waves at La Jolla Shores are typically the most gentle of all San Diego beaches during the summer months.

8300 Camino Del Oro
La Jolla
Online: sandiego.gov

Best Beach for a Staycation: Silver Strand State Beach

Located 4.5 miles south of Coronado Village is Silver Strand State Beach. This urban beach is only 15 minutes from downtown and offers views of San Diego Bay. The calmer, warmer weather on the bayside is great for kiddos who want gentler waves, making Silver Strand State Beach one of the best family beaches in San Diego. The beach is used by guests of Loews Coronado Bay Resort and the resort operates seasonal chair, umbrella and other beach rentals that the public can take advantage of for a small fee. A perfect option for a family staycation!

Good to Know: The California Department of Parks and Recreation offers fun programming at this beach, like nature walks and a Junior Ranger badge program.

5000 Highway 75
Coronado
Online: parks.ca.gov

Best Overall Beach: Del Mar City Beach

Fenced in playground? Check. Look out point? Check. Cool trains passing by? Check. You will be hard pressed to find anything at all wrong with Del Mar City Beach–and that's why a majority of San Diego residents will insist it's the best in town. The beach has lifeguards, restrooms, a grassy park area with a playground and it is situated right near Del Mar's prime shops and restaurants. This beach had us hooked from the first wave!

17th St.
Del Mar
Online: delmar.ca.us

Best Beach for Tide Pools: Tide Beach Park

A curious kid's dream, Tide Beach Park is a hidden treasure among San Diego beaches—located at the north end of Solana Beach, the secluded area of sand is rarely crowded. Get ready to hike down a long set of stairs that leads you to a semicircular cove and a large reef, called Table Tops. The best time to visit the tide pools is at low tide. Prepare to see anemones, starfish, crabs and other varieties of little fish.

Good to Know: This beach does not have a restroom, parking however, is plentiful and free near the intersection of Pacific Ave. and Solana Vista Dr.

302 Solana Vista Dr.
Solana Beach
Online: californiabeaches.com

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Best Kept Secret: Ponto Beach

North county folks know how to keep a secret and one of them is just how awesome Carlsbad's Ponto Beach is. This small, beautiful beach is a favorite among locals for surfing and quality family time. The flat shoreline makes it easy to keep an eye on the kids while they play in the sand.

Good to Know: There's street parking as well as a pay-to-park lot, and the restrooms are clean and easily accessible, making this slice of paradise worth the drive north.

6039 Carlsbad Blvd.
Carlsbad
Online: californiabeaches.com

Hot Dog! Your Guide to Visiting Coney Island with Kids

by Yuliya GeikhmanJune 15, 2022

Even if you missed the Mermaid Parade on June 18, there are still plenty of reasons to head to the seaside fun spot Coney Island. In addition to the Cyclone celebrating a landmark birthday (95!), you’ll also find new rides, new eats, new art — and all the old sun and sand favorites, too. Here’s what’s happening on, and along, the boardwalk. For more things to do with the kids, check out our Summer 2022 Bucket List, our favorite playgrounds with sprinklers and where to enjoy a meal outside with the kids.

Hit the Beach

Two centuries of beachgoers can’t be wrong: the surf and sand are the real reason to head out here. If you’re heading here on a weekend, it pays to know that the area in front of Luna Park and the spot around the Brighton Beach train station tend to be the most crowded. If you want a little wiggle room, aim for the stretch of sand between the two.

Food: There are no concessions in the immediate area so pack a picnic or be prepared to flag down the vendors who will come by selling cotton candy, ice cream, cocktails, and more. (Also: if you’ve got a beach umbrella, bring it.) Beaches are open with lifeguards on duty from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Bathrooms: If you forgot the sunscreen, look for free sunscreen stations scattered around the boardwalk before you head out onto the sand. There are plenty of accessible bathrooms available but plan ahead: They’re all located by the boardwalk, which means you’ll likely be trekking back across the sand to get to them. You’ll also be able to wash off the sand at one of the outdoor sprinkler/shower stations — these tend to have a line but it goes quickly and people are generally courteous of each others’ time.

Coney Island: Take the D, Q, N or F train to Stillwell Avenue

Brighton Beach: Take the B or Q to Brighton Beach

Bike the Boardwalk

If you and the kids are early risers, then gear up and bring your bikes to the beach. Riding bicycles on the boardwalk is permitted from 6 to 10 a.m. daily. The boardwalk is a wide, flat, and mostly even surface (with some renovated areas that make for a super smooth ride) that’s a good option for little bikers. Keep in mind that it doesn’t loop, so you’ll either ride to a certain point and back or exit at any of the ramps at intervals and catch the train from there. I don’t recommend going further than Luna Park, as that marks the last train station, making getting back more difficult if your budding bikers get tired feet.

Monkey Around in the Playgrounds

You might be going to the beach for the sun and surf, but what child can resist a good playground? The sprawling Brighton Playground on Brighton 2nd is a popular option with kids of all ages for its large variety of playground equipment. The playground’s been there since the 1950s but renovations in the late 1990s added handicap-accessible areas and structures so kids of all abilities can enjoy the playground, as well. For something fun to do, send your kids on a scavenger hunt of all the marine life and Coney Island motifs that adorn the playground structures, fences and even ground.

Besides this large playground, there are also two little playgrounds right on the sand, one near Luna Park and one near the Brighton Beach train station. These don’t have much shade so be careful of little feet getting too hot on steamy summer days.

For a more active playtime, there are several volleyball nets strung up every few blocks right in the sand, as well as handball courts on West 5th Street (by the bandshell) but these tend to be taken over by older people playing. Don’t miss the tiny marine rock “playground” on the boardwalk right where the Aquarium wall begins, where kids can climb around on the rocks, complete a challenge to find all the marine life on the rocks, and have a chance to look through binoculars (with steps for shorter visitors).

Brighton Playground: Brighton 2nd St. & Brightwater Ct. (just off the boardwalk)

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Get Your Thrills on New Rides at Deno’s Wonder Wheel and Luna Park

Luna Park is open for the summer and ready to thrill and excite visitors of all ages. The more daring of your group can tackle the legendary Cyclone roller coaster (for a preview, listen out to the period screams of delight that can be heard all the way from the boardwalk) and the newer gravity-defying Thunderbolt. There are plenty of choices for smaller and less thrill-seeking family members, too, like the classic teapot ride, some high-flying options, and even a firefighting ride.

The Luna Park website has all its rides categorized by thrill level, so you can plan ahead.

This year, look out for two brand new additions to the Luna Park ride family: Tony’s Express and Leti’s Treasure. Named after the grandparents of Luna Park’s CEO, Alessandra Zamperla, these two rides will pay homage to the Switchback Railway (the first-ever rollercoaster on Coney Island from 1884) and Shoot the Chutes (a semi-aquatic ride from the early 1900s), respectively. Tony’s Express will be a family-friendly rollercoaster with over 1,200 feet of track and Leti’s Treasure will have 12 6-seater boats that will rise over 40 feet high the drop into water with a splash. Both are planned to open this summer so keep your eyes open for them.

Deno’s Wonder Wheel (The park home to the eponymous ride in between the two sections of Luna Park) also recently debuted a new ride. The Phoenix Rollercoaster (shown above), a family thrill roller coaster that join’s Deno’s healthy collection of tamer kiddie rides.)

Hours vary by day (see schedule here)
1000 Surf Ave.
Online: lunaparknyc.com

Travel Back to the Past with the Coney Island History Project

The Coney Island History Project isn’t a very big place — it’s just two rooms — but it’s filled wall to wall with the history of the boardwalk and its many attractions. Plus: it’s free!The History Project is full of pieces from the area’s past, like Coney Island’s oldest relic (a toll house sign from 1823), and reminders of the darker rides that used to greet visitors at the amusement park (including a skull that looks stripped of its skin. Yikes).

This year’s special exhibit focuses on Barbara Rosenberg’s street photography. Taken over the course of 50 years, these photographs cover Steeplechase Park, the Polar Bear Club, Boardwalk attractions from the 1970s, and more glimpses into the history of Coney Island.

You can also check out the History Project’s podcast, Coney Island Stories, which aims to record an oral history of the area. The newest episode, “Growing Up in the 1940s,” interviews residents of the neighborhood about the hardships and delights of living in Coney Island in the 1940s.

Free
Sat., Sun., and holidays 1-7 p.m.
3059 West 12th St. (under Deno’s Wonder Wheel)
Online: Coney Island History Project:

Revisit the Nabe’s Golden Age at the Coney Island Museum

The Coney Island Museum is a tribute to the history of the neighborhood, full of vintage, authentic funhouse mirrors, rare postcards, shooting gallery targets, and more. The museum also highlights all the innovations that the neighborhood’s brought to the world: Sure you might know of Nathan’s hot dog, but did you know that Coney Island introduced the first baby incubators, originally as a sideshow? Discover more interesting and historic facts, trinkets, photos, and more in the historic building.

This summer, the museum is hosting a new exhibit in collaboration with New York Transit Museum: Five Cents to Dreamland. This special exhibit brings together artifacts from both museums to paint a picture of the way transportation to the beach contributed to making Coney Island and its attractions such a great success.

$5/adult, $3/seniors, kids under 12 and residents of zipcode 11224
Sat. and Sun., 12-5 p.m.
1208 Surf Ave.
Online: Coney Island Museum

Get Your Fill of American, Ukrainian, and Russian Food

Hungry? Head to the Luna Park side of the boardwalk for your pick of beachside classics like funnel cakes and cheese fries, or more traditional sit-down restaurants. There are some excellent family-friendly options by the Stillwell train station, like the classic Nathan’s, iHop, and Applebees. Head to It’s Sugar for a treat after the meal, or check out the newly opened Coney Waffle, across from the Cyclone.

But the Luna Park fare isn’t the only place to get something to earth. On the Brighton Beach train side of the boardwalk, Tatiana Restaurant and adjoining grill is a solid pick for an evening meal, and it’s especially nice if you can get an outdoor seat. Steps off the boardwalk on Brighton Beach proper (under the train), in what’s commonly known as Little Odessa, there are many ethnic Eastern European and Russian food options, whether you want to sit down and enjoy your meal or grab a treat for the road — I highly recommend potato or chicken piroshkis, which are fried bread with delicious hand-made fillings.

It’s important to note, considering current events, that although the neighborhood houses a mix of residets from Russia, Ukraine and adjoining countries, there’s been a outpouring of support and solidarity for Ukraine in the neighborhood. If you want to support Ukrainian-owned businesses, or Russian businesses that stand with Ukraine, look for Ukrainian flags hanging in storefonts. To name just two, the aforementioned Tatiana is a Ukraine supporter, as is Taste of Russia at 219 Brighton Beach Ave, which has recently rebranded as “International Food” to be more inclusive.

family visiting New York Aquarium in Coney Island — Julie Larsen Maher

Meet the Fishies at the New York Aquarium

Now’s a great time to see the aquatic residents of the New York Aquarium: For the first time in about 10 years, the aquarium will be completely, fully open! All the repairs from Hurricane Sandy are complete and the areas closed due to covid are reopened, so visitors can finally see the aquarium in all its glory.

To celebrate, the aquarium has opened a number of new interactive exhibits, from PlayQuarium’s touch pool to a new space that lets you watch sea lions, harbor seals, penguins, and otters frolic underwater. Learn about the impact of climate change, enjoy crafts, music, and trivia, or watch some performances at the Wildlife Theater. Don’t miss the giant octopus mural and tentacles photo-op!

NY Aquarium
Prices differ off- and on-peak, check them out and buy tickets here
10 a.m.-6 p.m.
602 Surf Ave.
Online: nyaquarium.com

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Keep an Eye Out for New Murals

The Coney Island art walls might be gone, but the artistic spirit of the community lives on. Keep an eye out for newly completed murals around the neighborhood and boardwalk.

Here are two to get you started: Danielle Mastrion’s tribute to Coney Island on Gargiulos Restaurant’s back wall (on Stillwell Ave.), and Ledania’s gorgeous and colorful artwork on Tom’s Coney Island (by Luna Park). Catch more here or keep an eye on the Coney Island Facebook for more unveilings.

See the Brooklyn Cyclones in Action

Catching a baseball game at the stadium on Coney is a timeless treat, so don’t miss out! Catch the legendary Brooklyn Cyclones in action at the diamond. Tuesdays have special family deals: For just $20, you get a ticket, a cyclones hat, hot dog or chicken tenders, fries, and drinks. Events typically include fun extras like giveaways, fireworks, and shows.

Maimonedes Park Baseball Field: 1904 Surf Ave.

Watch Movies on the Beach

Coney Flicks is back this year, so you can once again enjoy a movie under the stars on the beach. Catch three free screenings every Monday in the summer, starting with “Encanto” on June 27. Other movies include “Spiderman No Way Home,” “Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings,” “My Big Fat Greek Wedding,” and more.

The movies will be shown on a giant inflated screen, with the colorful nighttime Luna Park acting as ambient light. Screenings will begin at sundown, so times vary. Bring a towel and snacks for an evening picnic.

Free
Monday nights
West 12th St. on the beach (near Luna Park)
Online: Coney Island Flicks on the Beach

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Catch Weekly Free Fireworks

If the Fourth of July celebrations left you wanting more fireworks, you can get your fix every Friday night.

Friday Night Fireworks: Fridays starting June 24, 9:45 p.m. By Deno’s Wonder Wheel

Annual Coney Island Sand Sculpting Contest

Check out the annual sand-sculpting contest, to be held sometime in August (exact date to be announced). After being postponed in 2021 due to rising coronavirus cases in the area, the 30th contest is set to happen this year. Every year, the event brings in expert sand sculptors for some incredible sand works of art. Check out the winners of the 2019 contest for a taste of what to expect

Appreciate the Beauty of Classic Cars

Come explore some classic old cars lined up along West 12th Street. Vote for your favorite, watch performances from the Coney Island sideshow and more.

Free
July 9, 1-5 p.m.
West 12th St.
Online: Classic Car Show

30 Kids Books That Feature Diverse Characters

by Gabby CullenMay 25, 2022

When it comes to kids’ books, it’s important to make sure your reading list offers a wide array of diverse characters; it’s an easy way to show budding readers that while human beings come in all shapes, sizes and colors, we all have the same emotions and feelings. And, it’s a great way for kids to see another side of things and experience things through a different set of eyes. We’ve rounded up 30 epic books for kids that feature diverse protagonists, scroll down to see them all and order your favorite today!

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.

Most Perfect You

$15 BUY NOW

"You are all of my favorite things." Irie doesn't like her hair, so when she asks to cover it up with a beanie in the middle of summer, it starts a conversation of all the amazing things her mother sees in her. Inspired by a real story from author Jazmyn's Simons' daughter, this sweet tale is inspiring and uplifting. Ages: 4-8

The Year We Learned to Fly

$13 BUY NOW

Like the stories passed down in Black Folktales, a brother and sister learn to fly in the midst of tough times in this short tale. With the help of Jacqueline Woodson and illustrator Rafael López, the duo follow their grandmother's advice and use their imaginations to escape to places of beauty and adventure. Ages: 5-8

Fly

$18 BUY NOW

Africa has signed up for a Double Dutch competition. The only problem? She's never done it before! Can she dig deep into the same skills her grandmother had as a jump rope legend and show the world what she's made of? Ages: 4-8

Bedtime Classics: Alice in Wonderland

$8 BUY NOW

The classic story of Alice in Wonderland is reimagined as part of a new series of board books that take famous books and re-tell them with inclusive and charming illustrations. Other books in the series include The Wizard of Oz and Jack and the Beanstalk. Ages: 3 & up.

Last Stop on Market Street

$10 BUY NOW

It all starts with a question—“Nana, how come we don’t got a car?”—and the story of young C.J. and the wisdom his grandma imparts is off and running, just like the bus they ride down Market Street after church on Sundays. This simple story about the perspective only grandparents can give their grandkids won the Caldecott Honor award in 2016. Ages: 3-5.

Tomorrow Most Likely

$5 BUY NOW

Dave Eggers is at it again with his newest release for kiddos ages 3-5, Tomorrow Most Likely. Publishing this month from Chronicle Books, this new read illustrated by Lane Smith reinvents the classic bedtime book. Instead of focusing on what happened that day, the little boy protagonist focuses on the future and imagines all the fun, dreamy and whimsical things that might happen tomorrow. Ages 3-5

Astronaut Annie

$18 BUY NOW

As Annie prepares for career day at her school, she talks to her family about their hopes for her future as she plans her future career as an astronaut. Suzanne Slade's book will satisfy your curious kiddos with bonus material about famous female astronauts and facts about the moon, all accompanied by enchanting illustrations by Nicole Tadgell. Ages: 4-7

Daniel's Good Day

$14 BUY NOW

From Ezra Keats award-winning author/illustrator Micha Archer comes the next adventure for a young boy named Daniel. This time, as Daniel makes his way to grandma's, he ponders what makes it a "good day," and stops to ask various members of his community to find out. For his friend Emma, a steady wind for her kite makes it a good day, for the gardener it's bees on flowers, for the crossing guard, it's everyone home safe. Follow this charming tale to find out what makes a good, or better yet, a perfect day for Daniel. Ages: 3-6

Julian Is a Mermaid

$10 BUY NOW

Julian’s life is forever changed on the day he sees the brilliant costumes and colorful hair of Coney Island Mermaid Parade participants riding home on the subway. This epic book for kids proves that anyone can be a mermaid. Ages: 4-8 years

How to Code a Sandcastle

$10 BUY NOW

Pearl is trying to build the perfect sandcastle, but she is not having any luck with fellow beach-goers ruining her efforts. That's when Pearl turns to a robot named Pascal to teach her computer coding concepts to build a foolproof sandcastle. Ages: 4-8

Thunder Boy Jr.

$11 BUY NOW

Even if you don’t have a “jr.” in your family, your kids will relate to Thunder Boy’s frustration and overwhelming desire to change his name. Compellingly and humorously, he works his persuasive magic on his captive audience (that’s you!), making the case for a name change to “Not Afraid of Ten Thousand Teeth”… or how about “Full of Wonder?” Add in the fantastic artwork of Yuyi Morales, and it’s easy to see why this book has earned its place on seven best book lists! Ages: 4-8

Merci Suarez Changes Gears

$6 BUY NOW

Winner of the 2019 Newbery Medal. Sixth-grader Merci Suarez isn’t like the other kids in her private school in Florida. She’s a scholarship student. Instead of spending her weekends on a boat like the other kids, she performs community service to help pay for her free tuition. A sensitive coming of age chapter book that perfectly encapsulates the joy and uncertainty of the middle school years. Ages: 9-12

The Seekers

$19 BUY NOW

We're not sure what's the best part of this stunning picture book: the original story based on mythology from the artists' native Mumbai or the stunning illustrations created by Hari & Deepti, two paper-cut artists who bring the story of a brother and sister who leave their home valley to save their village, and along the way, through the myth of Silver Fox and Fire Wolf, learn the true importance of balance. Ages: 4-8

Sulwe

$13 BUY NOW

Written by Kenyan-born actress Lupita Nyong'O, this is as much her personal story as it the story of young Sulwe, a girl whose skin is the color of midnight. The stunningly gorgeous illustrations by Vashti Harrison are reason enough alone to want this book in your library, but the story itself is beautifully told; it's about differences, acceptance of oneself no matter how we think others see us, it's about wanting to fit in and yet being unique. A vital message for every kid out there, regardless of race or gender. Read it today with your kids. Ages: 4-8

Parker Looks Up

$10 BUY NOW

Written by Parker Curry (age 4) and her mama, Jessica Curry, with an afterword by Michelle Obama, this is the sweet story of Parker Curry, a young girl, who went to the National Portrait Gallery one afternoon with her mom. She saw prancing horse, blooming flowers, a bushy mustache ... but before she went twirling off toward home, Parker Curry looked up. There on the wall, she saw the magnificent portrait (by Amy Sherald) of Michelle Obama. Parker didn't just see the First Lady of the United States. She saw a queen, a woman with regality, beauty, truth and self-assurance, a woman who looked like her. This moving story will delight any young dreamer; it's a great addition to any home library or classroom. Ages: 4-8

Ada Twist Scientist

https://www.amazon.com/Ada-Twist-Scientist-Andrea-Beaty/dp/1419721372?tag=

BUY NOW

She's a curious kid, that Ada. Constantly asking "why," and forever conducting experiments to get to the bottom of her questions, Ada may frustrate her parents with the neverending mess, but what's important is that she doesn't stop until she gets the results. One in a series that includes Iggy Peck, Architect, and Rosie Revere, Engineer, Ada is a wonderful role model for all girls interested in science. Ages: 5-7

Freedom Soup

$14 BUY NOW

Join a Haitian grandma and her granddaughter in the kitchen as they make their traditional New Year's Soup, aka Freedom Soup, and learn the story of Haiti's independence. Includes a delicious recipe for you to try at home. Author Tami Charles pays homage to her heritage while Jacqueline Alcántara highlights the joy and richness of the culture with her gorgeous illustrations. Ages: 5-9

You Should Meet: Katherine Johnson

$5 BUY NOW

Who was Katherine Johnson? This book will tell you: she is said to be one of the greatest minds of all time! She worked in the 1950s for the NASA space program and was such a brilliant mathematician that she figured out the math needed to send a rocket to the moon in her head. She didn't even use a computer or a calculator. This book will teach kids about her early life as a child growing up in a small town in Virginia that didn't even have a high school for African Americans (schools were segregated then), how her family moved to a town with a high school she could attend, and about her incredible career as a scientist and mathematics marvel. Ages: 6-8

Little Whale: A Story of the Last Tlingit War Canoe

$20 BUY NOW

Part of what makes this chapter book such an exciting one isn’t the fact that it’s about a young Tlingit boy who stows away in his father’s canoe. It’s the fact that it’s mostly true. Based on a tale passed down from his grandfather, author Roy Peratrovich, Jr. skillfully weaves his family’s history into the story of 10-year-old Keet, and his wild adventures on the stormy sea and beyond. Ages: 7+

The Night Diary

$12 BUY NOW

In 1947 India, 12-year-old Nisha is not sure where she belongs as a half-Muslim, half-Hindu, in her country. When her father decides to leave Pakistan, Nisha and her family become refugees and embark on a long and challenging journey to find a new home. The hopeful and personal story of this family is told through Nisha's letters to her mother. Ages: 8-12

Birchbark House

$30 BUY NOW

Cuddle up with this modern classic that was a National Book Award Finalist. Set in 1847, the story follows the day-to-day life of Omakayas, better known as “Little Frog,” after she was orphaned by a Small Pox outbreak and was eventually taken in by an Ojibwa family. Your kids will love hearing her tales of tanning moose hides, picking berries and even encountering bear cubs in vivid detail. Ages: 8 & up

Other Words for Home

$8 BUY NOW

In this Newbery honor book, you'll meet 12-year-old Jude, who has left her seaside home in Syria to escape the country's brutal civil war. She and her mother leave her father and brother behind as they head for Cinncinati to stay with relatives. Jude will experience being labeled as "Middle Eastern" for the first time, but she'll also discover new friends, a school musical that's worth taking the risk and finally understand that home can be in more than one place. Ages: 8-12

Sal and Gabi Break the Universe

$8 BUY NOW

Sal and Gabi didn't meet under the best circumstances, but that doesn't stop them from high adventure. When Gabi discovers Sal can reach through time, she wonders––can it bring back her mother who's passed away? This Cuban-inspired sci-fi story by Carlos Hernandez is just what your middle schooler ordered. Ages: 8-12

Front Desk

$7 BUY NOW

Mia Yang has a few secrets: she lives in a motel, her parents clean the motel rooms and hide immigrants, and she wants to be a writer, not a mathematician. Loosely based on author Kelly Yang's childhood, this powerful story addresses poverty, systemic racism, stereotypes and more. Although this story takes place in the '90s, many of the heartbreaking stories told here remain true for immigrants and minorities today. Ages: 9+

The Tristan Strong series are books like Percy Jackson

Tristan Strong Punches a Hole in the Sky

$7 BUY NOW

Fans of Percy Jackson will be thrilled by this Rick Riordan Presents series, written by Kwame Mbalia. Mbalia does for African mythology and folk tales what Riordan has done for Greek mythology. The hero in this story is seventh grader Tristan Strong, who isn't feeling very strong after the death of his best friend, Eddie. During Tristan's summer stay at his grandparents home in Alabama, Eddie's journal (which is precious to Tristan) is stolen by a strange creature. Tristan chases after it, and "accidentally" punches a hole into a land rich with monsters, haunted ships and boiling seas. Mbalia weaves black American folk heroes like John Henry and Brer Rabbit with African gods and mythos. Our editor's 9-year-old devoured this book, laughing out loud along the way, and is now eagerly awaiting book two! Ages: 8-12

The Crossover

$9 BUY NOW

Written in a fast-moving verse that mirrors the pace of bouncing balls on the basketball court, this Newbery Award-winning novel follows the lives of two brothers, Josh and Jordan Bell, as they navigate life both on and off the court. Ages: 10-12

Kira-Kira

$6 BUY NOW

This Newbery Award-winning book follows Katie and her family as they leave Iowa and move to Deep South Georgia in the 1950s. One of only 31 Japanese-American families in town, Katie, her older sister Lynn and hard-working parents will encounter racism at school and work, and when tragedy befalls the family, Katie must stay strong for everyone. A sobering historical fiction tale worth reading. Ages: 10-14

The Hate U Give

$13 BUY NOW

16-year-old Starr Carter is constantly trying to find the balance between the fancy prep school she attends and the poor neighborhood in which she lives. When she witnesses the death of her childhood friend at the hands of the police, that balance is shattered. The protests, the hate and the confusion that follow are achingly similar to current events. A heartbreaking tale, this poignant first-person narrative is a great way to start or continue a conversation with your tween about the Black Lives Matter movement. Ages: 12 & up

Poet X

$9 BUY NOW

The lyrical language of this novel by Elizabeth Acevedo makes reading Xiomara’s story easy, although her life was not. She’s a scrapper, who came into this world fighting, even though her mother would prefer she didn’t. She’s got poetry in her veins, so it’s no wonder she’s invited to join her school’s slam poetry club. But will Mami let her? Ages: 12+

All the Days Past, All the Days to Come

$10 BUY NOW

From Newbery Award-winning novelist Mildred D. Taylor comes the end of the Logan family saga that began with Song of the Trees and Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry. In All the Days Past, Cassie Logan is all grown up and trying to find her place in the world. Her journey takes her to Toledo, California, law school in Boston and finally, back to Mississippi in the '60s to help with voter registration. She will be witness to the rise of the civil rights movement, which is preceded by racist American white society, and the often violent confrontations that bring about historical change. Ages: 14+

—Gabby Cullen, Amber Guetebier, Allison Sutcliffe and Karly Wood

Tips for Talking to Kids About Tragedy in the News

By Common Sense Media

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

May 25, 2022

No matter how old your kids are, threatening or upsetting news can affect them emotionally. Many can feel worried, frightened, angry, or even guilty. And these anxious feelings can last long after the news event is over. So what can you do as a parent to help your kids deal with all this information? Here are a few tips for talking to kids about tragedy in the news.

Addressing News and Current Events: Tips for All Kids

Consider your own reactions. Your kids will look to the way you handle the news to determine their own approach. If you stay calm and rational, they will, too.

Take action. Depending on the issue and kids’ ages, families can find ways to help those affected by the news. Kids can write postcards to politicians expressing their opinions; families can attend meetings or protests; kids can help assemble care packages or donate a portion of their allowance to a rescue/humanitarian effort. Check out websites that help kids do good.

Tips for Kids under 7

Keep the news away. Turn off the TV and radio news at the top of the hour and half hour. Read the newspaper out of range of young eyes that can be frightened by the pictures (kids may respond strongly to pictures of other kids in jeopardy). Preschool kids don’t need to see or hear about something that will only scare them silly, especially because they can easily confuse facts with fantasies or fears.

Stress that your family is safe. At this age, kids are most concerned with your safety and separation from you. Try not to minimize or discount their concerns and fears, but reassure them by explaining all the protective measures that exist to keep them safe. If the news event happened far away, you can use the distance to reassure kids. For kids who live in areas where crime and violence is a very real threat, any news account of violence may trigger extra fear. If that happens, share a few age-appropriate tips for staying and feeling safe (being with an adult, keeping away from any police activity).

Be together. Though it’s important to listen and not belittle their fears, distraction and physical comfort can go a long way. Snuggling up and watching something cheery or doing something fun together may be more effective than logical explanations about probabilities.

Tips for Kids 8–12

Carefully consider your child’s maturity and temperament. Many kids can handle a discussion of threatening events, but if your kids tend toward the sensitive side, be sure to keep them away from the TV news; repetitive images and stories can make dangers appear greater, more prevalent, and closer to home.

Be available for questions and conversation. At this age, many kids will see the morality of events in stark black-and-white terms and are in the process of developing their moral beliefs. You may have to explain the basics of prejudice, bias, and civil and religious strife. But be careful about making generalizations, since kids will take what you say to the bank. This is a good time to ask them what they know, since they’ll probably have gotten their information from friends, and you may have to correct facts.

Talk about — and filter — news coverage. You might explain that even news programs compete for viewers, which sometimes affects content decisions. If you let your kids use the Internet, go online with them. Some of the pictures posted are simply grisly. Monitor where your kids are going, and set your URLs to open to non-news-based portals.

Tips for Teens

Check in. Since, in many instances, teens will have absorbed the news independently of you, talking with them can offer great insights into their developing politics and their senses of justice and morality. It will also help you get a sense of what they already know or have learned about the situation from their own social networks. It will also give you the opportunity to throw your own insights into the mix (just don’t dismiss theirs, since that will shut down the conversation immediately).

Let teens express themselves. Many teens will feel passionately about events and may even personalize them if someone they know has been directly affected. They’ll also probably be aware that their own lives could be affected by violence. Try to address their concerns without dismissing or minimizing them. If you disagree with media portrayals, explain why so your teens can separate the mediums through which they absorb news from the messages conveyed.

Additional resources

For more information on how to talk to your kids about a recent tragedy, please visit the National Association of School Psychologists or the American Psychological Association. For more on how news can impact kids, check out News and America’s Kids: How Young People Perceive and Are Impacted by the News,

Marie-Louise Mares, Associate Professor in the Department of Communication Arts at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, contributed to this article.

Common Sense Media

Tinybeans Voices Contributor

Common Sense Media is an independent nonprofit organization offering unbiased ratings and trusted advice to help families make smart media and technology choices. Check out our ratings and recommendations at www.commonsense.org.

1. The Statue of Liberty—New York, NY

2. The Bean—Chicago, IL

3. Mississippi Civil Rights Museum—Jackson, MS

4. Houston Space Center—Houston, TX

5. Muir Woods—Mill Valley, CA

6. Baseball Hall of Fame—Cooperstown, NY

7. Four Corners Monument—AZ, CO, NM, and UT

8. Gettysburg, PA

9. The Hollywood Sign—Los Angeles, CA

10. Colonial Williamsburg—VA

11. Zion National Park, Utah

12. Hoover Dam—NV

13. National Civil Rights Museum—Memphis, TN

14. Willis Tower—Chicago, IL

15. The Smithsonian Museums—Washington, DC

16. Hershey’s Chocolate World—Hershey, PA

17. Bandelier National Monument—Los Alamos, NM

18. National Susan B. Anthony House & Museum | Rochester, NY

19. Cadillac Mountain—Acadia National Park, ME

20. Niagara Falls State Park—Niagara, NY

21. El Yunque National Forest | Puerto Rico

22. Royal Gorge Bridge & Park—Canon City, CO

23. Independence Hall—Philadelphia, PA

24. Walt Disney World—Orlando, FL

25. Mt. Denali—Denali National Park & Preserve, AK

26. Empire State Building—New York City, NY

27. Kīlauea Volcano—Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park, HI

28. Old Faithful—Yellowstone National Park, WY

29. Homestead Crater—Midway, UT

30. 9/11 Memorial and Museum | New York, NY

31. LEGOLAND Resort—Carlsbad, CA, Winter Haven, FL, & Goshen, NY

32. Hoh Rain Forest—Olympic National Park, WA

33. Valley Forge National Historical Park, Philadelphia

34. Grand Canyon—Grand Canyon National Park, AZ

35. Kennedy Space Center – Merritt Island, FL

36. La Brea Tar Pits – Los Angeles, CA

37. The Gateway Arch—St. Louis, MO

38. The Alamo—San Antonio, TX

39. Death Valley National Park—Death Valley, CA

40. The Freedom Trail—Boston, MA

41. The Mall of America—Bloomington, MN

42. Glacier National Park—MT

43. The Space Needle—Seattle, WA

44. Angel Island State Park—San Francisco, CA

45. Manatee Swim—Crystal River, FL

46. Art Institute of Chicago—Chicago, IL

47. Yosemite Falls & Yosemite National Park, CA

48. U.S. Holocaust Memorial Museum—Washington, D.C.

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Attention, moms on the Hill: Whether you’re a new mom or a seasoned parent, you know the importance of joining a local DC-area moms group to keep you sane—and supported.

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