It’s so easy to get into a routine with our fuzzy family members. Especially between kids and work and everything else, we get really used to the same products and supplies we always use for our pets. But stick with us. There are so many cool pet products out there that we weren’t even areare of. So get cuddled up with your sweet companion and get ready to spoil them. Check out our cool pet products picks below!

Basepaws At-Home Pet Health Tests

a dog, cat, and corresponding pet DNA tests
Basepaws

We'd love it if our pets could tell us exactly how they're feeling all the time, but since they can't, Basepaws developed their at-home pet health tests to give us the low down on our pets' health. Each test includes personalized insights into your dog or cat, including disease detection and genetic predisposition. Pick the best test for them, swab, and receive your pet's full health report.

Basepaws At-Home Pet Health Tests ($99.00+)—Buy Here!

Dog Bark Deterrent Device Alternative to Shock Collars

orange sonic dog training device
NPS

Amazon is calling this one a game-changer, and in our experience, it is. This hand-held device combines auto shut-off hearing safety with an ultrasonic dog whistle (they're the only ones who can hear it!) to stop barking, digging, jumping, and more. According to NPS, it's more effective than traditional dog whistles or clickers, and it's designed to shut off before it can damage their ears. No more yelling? We're in.

Dog Bark Deterrent Device Alternative to Shock Collars ($37.99)—Buy Here!

Ultimate Cat Infinity Scratcher Lounge

black and white cat laying on a modern scratcher lounger
PetFusion

This scratcher/lounge combo is perfect for kitties who can't keep their claws out of your furniture. Made from sturdy corrugated cardboard and designed in a cool reversible infinity shape, it lasts longer than traditional cat scratchers, too!

Ultimate Cat Infinity Scratcher Lounge ($54.99)—Buy Here!

Stainless Pet Water Fountain

white pet water fountain
Veken

Okay, we know that you probably already know about pet fountains. But this one has a full 95oz capacity perfect for multi-pet households! It filters their drinking water, has 2 flow designs, and lets you see how much they drink in real-time through the LED-lit window. 

Stainless Pet Water Fountain ($34.99)—Buy Here!

Crop Snuffle Mat

dog with farm-themed snuffle mat
ZMUBB

Whether you're working to slow down your dog's rapid eating or just want to give them something fun to do using treats or kibble, this adorable snuffle mat will have them digging and sniffing and not chewing your shoes, all at the same time.

Crop Snuffle Mat ($35.99)—Buy Here!

WLO Circular Modern Cat Tree

wooden cat tree
WLO

Deeply committed to both your cat and your living room design? This circular cat tree not only looks like art, but it's easy to clean, comes in several finishes, and even offers free customization. It's 100% handmade, too!

WLO Circular Modern Cat Tree ($274.70)—Buy Here!

Diggs Revol Pet Crate

Pet parents rave about the Diggs Revol Crate. Not only does it look good in any room, it’s incredibly easy to set up, has wheels for transport, can be collapsed in no time, and comes in multiple colors (and additional accessories!). Turns out, not all dog crates are created equal.

Diggs Revol Dog Crate ($375.00+)—Buy Here!

Keep 'Em Out/In Clear Decorative Divider by Jennifer Fisher

small dog sitting on other side of clear pet gate
CB2

This acrylic divider has to be one of the chicest pet 'gates' we've ever come across! Just adjust once to the desired width and you're all set. Shiny metallic feet and connecting hardware are both functional and pretty.

Keep 'Em Out/In Clear Decorative Divider by Jennifer Fisher ($299.00)—Buy Here!

WTF Soft Treats: Pumpkin Slices by Oh Norman!

box of pumpkin dog treats
Oh Norman!

Celeb dog-lover Kaley Cuoco created Oh Norman! eco-friendly and ethically-sourced dog products inspired by the pup who changed her life. A portion of all sales goes to dog rescue organizations and initiatives, so we'll take one of everything. WTF Soft Treats (Wholesome, Tasty, & Fresh) are a pumpkin slice treat that we're tempted to try, ourselves (we won't, but we're tempted). 

WTF Soft Treats: Pumpkin Slices by Oh Norman! ($12.00)—Pre-Order Here!

Retro TV Cat Condo

retro tv style cat bed in living room
Walmart

Your hipster cat will love this retro cat condo, complete with a jute scratching pad and washable mat.

Retro TV Cat Condo ($44.97)—Buy Here!

SmartDoor Connected Pet Door

smart pet door
PetSafe

This app-enabled pet door allows you to control exit and entry, set schedules, get notifications, and remotely control it from anywhere! The SmartDoor comes with a Pet Door Key that attaches to your pet’s existing collar, giving them exclusive access through the door. Pets and other animals who don't have a Pet Door Key are kept out. Talk about serious peace of mind.

SmartDoor Connected Pet Door ($499.95)—Buy Here!

Dog Paw Protectors

aussie shepherd dog wearing dog boots
QUMY

Dog boots aren't just cute; they help protect their sensitive pads from the elements and rough terrain. These are available in multiple colors and sizes.

Dog Paw Protectors ($28.99)—Buy Here!

Heated Multi-Kitty A-Frame Outdoor Cat House

brown cat tent with two cats inside
K&H Pet Products

Perfect for cats that prefer to sleep in garages, porches, barns, or even in colder parts of the house providing a nice cat cave with a cat warming pad inside.

Heated Multi-Kitty A-Frame Outdoor Cat House ($100.88)—Buy Here!

Treat Puzzle

dog with dog puzzle
Barkwhiz

This treat puzzle is multiple toys in one! With 14 storage compartments, your doggy can flip and slide the pieces around to keep them entertained and improve their brain power.

Treat Puzzle ($16.99)—Buy Here!

Large Cat Exercise Wheel

cat exercise wheel
MIWOOYY

This wheel takes cat exercise seriously. Picture a kitty hampster wheel with no splinters, minimum gaps to prevent pinches, and a quiet design (so you won't be woken up at 2am to cat cardio). There are several colors available, too.

Large Cat Exercise Wheel ($159.99)—Buy Here!

hiddin Clear Double Pet Bowl Feeder with Silver Bowls

two sets of silver and acrylic pet bowl sets
hiddin

Obviously, this feeder set is ultra-cool, but beyond that, it's elevated to an ergonomically correct height for comfortable (and cute) feeding.

hiddin Clear Double Pet Bowl Feeder with Silver Bowls ($169.00)—Buy Here!

 

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

Hop into spring with these Easter movies that are perfect for kids. From Easter Parade to The Dog Who Saved Easter—and everything in between—put these stories on your movie night bucket list, stat. You’ll find these Easter movies on Disney+, Netflix, and more of your favorite streaming choices. Keep reading for our favorite Easter movies for kids that are sure to delight your Flopsy, Mopsy, and Peter Cottontails.

Hop

Hop may just give the adults in the room a case of the jitters, but the movie is cute enough—and who doesn’t love Russell Brand, after all—that we can get beyond the main coming-of-age theme (Really, don’t give them any ideas about growing up, and maybe it just won’t happen, right?). This animated flick is about the relationship between the Easter Bunny and his adult(ish) son who moves to Hollywood to pursue his dream of being a rock star.

Recommended for ages 5 & older
Universal Pictures, 2011
Common Sense Media Review: Hop
Rated PG

Rent it here.

Easter Parade

Loaded with great Irving Berlin songs, this 1948 musical is wholesome, straightforward, and entertaining. Known as “The Happiest Musical Ever Made,” you and the kiddos will be tap-dancing your way to your nearest Easter parade with high expectations.

Recommended for ages 6 & up
MGM/UA, 1948
Common Sense Media Review: Easter Parade
Not rated

Rent it here.

Bugs Bunny Easter Funnies

Looking for a classic comedy with an Easter theme? Look no further. These cartoons are strung together and are united by what you’d most likely expect—a set of bunny ears and plenty of slapstick humor.

Recommended for ages 5 & up
Warner Home Video, 2010
Common Sense Media Review: Bugs Bunny Easter Funnies
Not rated

Buy it here.

The First Easter Rabbit

For a non-religious story about Easter, this animated musical tale will remind you of classics like Frosty the Snowman and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. But get ready—after watching this Easter movie for kids, your littles will be code red for dying eggs and frolicking in the grass.

Recommended for ages 3 & up
Warner Home Video, 2010
Common Sense Media Review: The First Easter Rabbit
Not rated

Buy it here.

Wallace & Gromit: Curse of the Were-Rabbit

When Wallace’s attempt to re-program rabbits to NOT eat the town’s veggies goes wrong, the iconic duo is faced with an ever bigger challenge—dealing with a were-rabbit. Parents should be warned that there are somewhat scary scenes of a cute rabbit transformation ala werewolf style, and like classic horror movies (think Frankenstein) the townspeople hunt the monster with guns. Overall, a fun movie for older kids.

Recommended for ages 7 & up
Dreamworks, 2005
Common Sense Media Review: Wallace & Gromit: Curse of the Were-Rabbit
Rated G

Rent it here.

Related: 20 Sweet Easter Basket Stuffers (That Aren’t Candy) 

Peter Rabbit

Peter Rabbit is like an Easter movie for kids
Sony Pictures

While this version of Peter Rabbit may be a bit edgier and more action-packed than the stories you remember from the classic Beatrix Potter books, you’ll still find Old Mr. McGregor, Peter, and all the animals on the McGregor farm. But don’t expect a peaceable kingdom—life’s tough if you’re on the run, and Peter relies on his street smarts to survive. And if you haven’t seen Peter Rabbit 2, this might be the perfect opportunity for a double feature!

Recommended for ages 7 & older
Columbia Pictures, Sony Pictures Animation, 2012
Common Sense Media Review: Peter Rabbit
Rated PG

Rent it here.

The Dog Who Saved Easter

If you’ve fallen in love with retriever Zeus in any of the previous Dog movies, you won’t be disappointed in The Dog Who Saved Easter. Expect plenty of humor, a lot of cuteness, and a touch of puppy love (for humans and dogs, alike) in this Easter movie for kids.

Recommended for ages 6 & up
Digital Filmz International, 2014
Common Sense Media Review: The Dog Who Saved Easter
Rated PG

Rent it here.

Here Comes Peter Cottontail

This Rankin-Bass classic is perfect for preschoolers not already disdainful of low-tech special effects and jerky stop-action animation. If your kiddos can see past the lack of flashy animation, they’re in for a wholesome treat.

Recommended for ages 4 & up
Classic Media, 1971
Common Sense Media Review: Here Comes Peter Cottontail
Not rated

Watch it here.

Yogi the Easter Bear

You can expect all of Yogi’s usual antics, like stealing picnic baskets and wreaking havoc on the Easter Jamboree at Jellystone, in this classic Hannah-Barbera holiday hit.

Recommended for all ages
Hannah-Barbera, 1994
Common Sense Media Review: None
Not rated

Watch it here.

Related: The Best Easter Bunny Ideas You Can Easily Pull Off 

Rabbit School: The Guardians of the Easter Eggs

When a streetwise bunny discovers that the mythical Rabbit School is real, he starts on a journey of self-discovery and finds that no matter your past, you can make a change for the better. Will Max gain Easter Bunny status?

Recommended for ages 8 & up
Viva Pictures 2018
Common Sense Media Review: Rabbit School: The Guardians of the Easter Eggs
Rated G

Watch it here.

Zootopia

Zootopia isn't an Easter movie for kids, but the star is a bunny rabbit
Walt Disney Studios

While this isn’t an obvious Easter-themed movie, it does feature a pretty strong rabbit lead. This fast-paced tale tells the story of police rabbit Judy Hopps who is determined to see her investigation through, no matter what. The message of courage, tolerance, and teamwork comes through tons of memorable characters and lots of laughs.

Recommended for ages 8 & up
Disney, 2016
Common Sense Media Review: Zootopia
Rated PG

Watch it here on Disney+.

Who Framed Roger Rabbit

Ok. This is decidedly NOT an Easter movie, but if you’re looking for something heavy on entertainment as well as rabbits, this is your jam. Combining live-action and animation, Roger Rabbit is a detective story with hilarious twists and double-crosses.

Recommended for ages 12 & up
Touchstone Pictures, 1988
Common Sense Media Review: Who Framed Roger Rabbit?
Rated PG

Watch it here on Disney+ or rent it on Amazon.

The Velveteen Rabbit

While this classic story takes place during Christmas, the central characters are bunnies, and you can’t beat the sweetness of this story. Based on the book by Margery Williams about a soft rabbit—and his buddies—that comes to life—it is a story about an only child finding a world of imagination, where love makes you who you are.

Recommended for ages 5 & up
Family1 Films, 2009
Common Sense Media Review: The Velveteen Rabbit
Rated G

Watch it on AppleTV here. 

Winnie the Pooh: Springtime with Roo

What happens when Rabbit decides to replace Easter with Spring Cleaning Day? His pals from the Hundred Acre Wood—led by little Roo—come to the rescue and help Rabbit see the error of his ways, of course!

Recommended for ages 4 & up
Walt Disney Pictures, 2005
Common Sense Media Review: Winnie the Pooh: Springtime with Roo
Rated G

Watch it on Disney+

Easterland

The villain Bad Clyde has cast an evil spell that banishes the Benny Easter Bunny to the Land of the Holiday Misfits, it’s up to Santa Claus and a few sidekicks to travel from the North Pole across realms to rescue Benny and save Easter for all the children.

Recommended for ages 4 & up
Gravitas Adventures, 2019
Common Sense Media Review: none
Rated G

Rent it here. 

—with additional reporting by Taylor Clifton

 

 

Abraham Lincoln, the 16th President of the United States is perhaps most famous for his Gettysburg Address, but did you know he also brought us Thanksgiving? Read on for a few more fun facts about Abraham Lincoln. When you’re done, learn fun facts about George Washington, and don’t forget to check out our round-up of cool spots to visit that teach kids about past presidents of the United States

1. His stovepipe top hat served as more than just a signature look: He used to stash his important documents there.

2. He loved animals and had a cat named Tabby and a dog named Fido. He loved his cat so much that she ate dinner at the White House table.

3. He was born on Feb. 12, 1809, in a one-room log cabin in Kentucky (So in a way, he brought you Lincoln Logs, too). 

4. At 21, he left home and canoed from Macon County, Illinois to New Salem, Illinois.

5. Lincoln’s favorite food was fruit.

6. A fun fact about Abraham Lincoln is that he was a wrestler. Over 12 years, he only lost one match out of 300.

7. Abraham Lincoln is the only U.S. president to ever hold a patent. He invented an inflatable bellows system to help boats navigate in shallow waters.

8. Abraham Lincoln supported the right of women to vote and said so as early as 1836. Women did not gain the right to vote officially until 1920!  

9. Lincoln lost five separate elections before he became President of the U.S. (Never, ever, ever give up!)

10. Apparently, he did not like being called Abe and preferred people to call him Abraham.

11. Lincoln was the first president to be born outside the original 13 colonies.

12. Lincoln and his wife, Mary Todd Lincoln, held séances in the White House.

13. At 6’4,” he was the tallest president.

14. Abraham Lincoln never slept in the Lincoln bedroom.

15. On the night of his assassination, General Ulysses S. Grant had been invited to attend the play with Lincoln but declined because his wife did not like Mary Lincoln.

 

When it comes to household chores, you’ve got plenty of tasks to go around. More importantly, when kids are required to pitch in and help with age-appropriate chores, they’ll learn how to cooperate, gain a sense of independence and feel a sense of accomplishment. If you’re wondering what exactly to put on your chore chart for kids, we’ve broken it down by age, from toddlers up to tweens. From picking up toys to helping with dinner, here is our ultimate chore list for kids.

Age-Appropriate Chores for Ages 2-3

toddler doing age-appropriate chores
iStock

Pick up the toys. Ask your toddler to help clean up when playtime is over, instead of doing it at the end of the day when you’d rather be watching Netflix instead of cleaning up DUPLO blocks.

Wipe up small spills. This is an easy one and is especially important if they are the ones that made the mess. Don't make a big deal, just let them know they need to clean up after themselves.

Put shoes away. A toddler can easily put his shoes away, especially if there's a special bin or shelf for footwear.

Put dirty clothes in the hamper. Show your little one where clothes go before he chooses his own drop spot.

Match socks. An easy way to let someone else worry about why there's always one sock missing.

Throw away trash. Kids can start putting trash in its proper place at an early age. 

Pick up sticks in the yard. What's more fun than collecting sticks?

Sort the groceries. Preschool-aged kids can help you put away things like cereal, snacks, canned goods, and other things that aren't too heavy or breakable. 

Chore List for Kids Ages 4-5

putting away silverwear should be on a chore list for kids ages 4 to 5
iStock

All of the chores listed above. 

Put away clean utensils. It’s the little things!

Brush their own teeth. This is an easy self-care chore that any preschooler can tackle.

Fold washcloths or napkins. Something small and square is the perfect first item to have your pre-k kid learn how to fold.

Make their own bed. This is a tough one because busy school mornings can get in the way. Weekends are wide open, however, and there’s nothing like a made bed to give your home a clean, fresh feeling.

Collect the mail. This one doesn't even feel like a chore.

Bring their belongings in from the car. Whether it's their toys or backpack, four-and five-year-olds are old enough to make sure everything gets inside at the end of the day. 

 

Related: 11 Reasons Why Chores Make Kids More Successful (According to Studies)

Age-Appropriate Chores for Kids Ages 6-7

little boy doing age-appropriate chores
iStock

All of the chores listed above.

Help prep a basic meal. If kids with knives don't sound like a good idea, there are plenty of other things they can do. Think: gather ingredients, measure spices, crack and whisk eggs, grate some cheese, flip pancakes, and more.

Wipe down surfaces. Kids this age are perfectly capable of spraying, wiping, and cleaning down a surface. Especially if they are the ones that made the mess in the first place.

Take control of their school gear. Stop gathering your kids’ stuff every night or morning. These early years are the right time to set up good work habits.

Water the plants. This is a great chore to help develop organizational skills. Have your kid schedule a once-a-week date with a watering can on the calendar.

Help carry in groceries. Unless you're using the multiple trips to and from the car as your cardio for the day.

Set and clear the table. You prepared the meal, so your kids should help to set and clear the plates. Simple as that. 

Put away laundry. Imagine a place where the laundry gets put away instead of collecting dust in a basket somewhere. It can be a reality, we promise!

Feed pets. Your grade-school-aged kid loves the dog, the chickens, and the family turtle. Well, no time like the present to teach him how to take care of something smaller than he is. 

Chore List for Kids Ages 8-10

little boy doing laundry, a good thing to put on a chore list for kids ages 8-10
iStock

All of the chores listed above. 

Basic home maintenance. At around 10, kids can begin to do small tasks around the house that helps with upkeep like putting in new lightbulbs, changing batteries, and hanging small pictures. 

Load and unload the dishwasher. Most days, after unloading, the thing fills right back up and needs to be unloaded again. Your early tween is an ideal candidate for helping out with this daily task.

Help with recycling and garbage. Older kids can sort recyclables, empty wastebaskets, and help pull trash cans in from the road. It’s also a good way for them to learn about consumption and to see where waste goes.  

Vacuum the rugs. The best part about handing off this task is that your kids will have to keep their rooms picked up in order to fulfill their duty.

Dust shelves, blinds, and furniture. A Swiffer duster makes this chore a breeze. 

Clean the mirrors in the bathrooms. Older kids are strong enough, and usually tall enough to reach the top of the mirror by now. Pass the Windex.

Move clothes from the washer to the dryer. Most kids ages eight and up are tall enough (and old enough) to start helping with the laundry. If there are items you don't want in the dryer or if you like to use a certain heat setting, be sure to show the kids the ropes in advance.

Related: Parents Hatch Genius Plot to Catch Their Kids Skipping Chores

Age-Appropriate Chores for Kids Ages 10-12

iStock

All of the chores listed above. 

Walk the dog. Take pet care to the next level by asking your tween to take on giving Fido his daily workout. 

Help with grocery shopping. Give your big kid his own list at the store, and arrange to meet up at the checkout. You'll cut your shopping time in half!

Vacuum out the car. She's already tackled vacuuming the living room and her bedroom. Add on the family car once a month or every other week. 

Babysit for siblings or relatives in small increments. Whether it's to take charge at a social or family gathering or leave your tween in charge for 30 minutes while you run a quick errand, this is a good age to test the waters for child care. 

Rake leaves. Before you can mow the grass, the leaves need to be raked. Tweens can handle this, plus it's a great way to keep them outside and off tablets. 

Change their own bedsheets (and keep the bed made). This is a chore that only takes a few minutes, but it's a game changer when it comes to feeling like you're on top of the mess. 

 

Kristen Wiig’s 2020 sketch will live on forever

Don’t forget about mom this holiday season. Saturday Night Live host Kristen Wiig highlighted what Christmas morning really looks like for some moms, in a sketch that went almost instantly viral when it aired in 2020 because it was so on point. In the sketch, Wiig gets woken up early by her kids, played by Kyle Mooney and Chloe Fineman. 

Her kids and husband begin revealing all of their gifts, and mom, well… she doesn’t have much.

Mooney sings about receiving a Nerf gun, Hulk hands, a drum set, and a telescope. Fineman gets a hat, a phone, and a copy of Catcher in the Rye. Wiig’s husband, played by Beck Bennett, gets a signed baseball bat, a laptop, and a tie. And mom gets a… robe.

The song continues with the family listing off more and more presents, including the piano from Big. Wiig thanks her family (rather unconvincingly) for the robe, which she suddenly notices was also on sale. 

While making breakfast, Wiig emerges from the kitchen with a dishrag over her hand letting her family know she burned herself. “It hurt pretty bad, but I didn’t even scream/because I keep the pain inside of me,” she raps.

When it looks like there might just be some extra presents for her after all, the kids and dad announce, “It’s presents for the dog!” The dog opens all of his gifts, which include a bone, treats, and, why yes, even his own robe. 

Once they’ve finished tearing through the stacks, the family squeezes onto the couch for a holiday selfie, in which Wiig looks like a wreck because she’s been up all night making Christmas magical for her family

As the sketch ends, an exhausted Wiig is sitting alone on the couch holding a glass of red wine. “Your mom does everything for your family,” says a voice-over. “This year get her more than one present. Moms like stuff, too.”

These new Netflix kids’ shows and movies coming in October are perfect for when the kids need downtime

Fall is officially here, which means chillier days and many excuses to relax on the sofa. Netflix’s October lineup is jam-packed with new releases and family favorites. No matter what you like to watch, there are plenty of new Netflix kids’ shows and movies this month. Family favorite Kung Fu Panda is back and there are a few new additions for Halloween, too. All that’s left is to decide what they want to watch first.

New Netflix Kids’ Shows and Movies Coming in October

Oct. 1

The Adventures of Tintin

This animated film is based on the comics of the same name. When young journalist TinTin buys a miniature version of a legendary pirate ship, he is unknowingly thrust into an adventure that involves traveling the world, looking for sunken treasure, and avoiding some nasty pirates. And he does it all with the help of his trusty sidekick Snowy.

The Amazing Spider-Man, The Amazing Spider-Man 2 

While the Andrew Garfield version of New York’s favorite superhero might not be the favorite of the comic book film adaptations, these movies are still action-packed fun for the whole family.

Casper 

This modern take on a classic cartoon character spins the story of an afterlife therapist and his daughter becoming friends with a friendly spirit after they move into a crumbling mansion.

Drake & Josh: Season 1-3 

In this classic Nickelodeon series, two stepbrothers learn to live together and navigate high school even though they’re very different people.

Kung Fu Panda 

Go back to where it all began for Po and his ninja master friends. Enjoy the discovery of the dragon warrior all over again with this animated classic.

The Little Rascals 

Based on the classic “Our Gang” movie shorts from the ’20s and ’30s, Little Rascals follows the adventures of Alfalfa, Darla, Stymie, Spanky, Waldo, and more.

Megamind

This hilarious animated film about an overly smart reformed super-villain alien is back on Netflix. Starring the voice talents of Will Ferrell, Ben Stiller, Tina Fey, Brad Pitt, and many more, this is a perfect choice for family movie night.

Oct. 2

Strawberry Shortcake and the Beast of Berry Bog

In an all-new special, the Berry Scary Fright Night Carnival has arrived in Big Apple City and Strawberry Shortcake must solve the mystery of who is trying to spoil the fun.

Oct. 10

Blippi’s Big Dino Adventure

If you didn’t catch Blippi’s feature film debut this summer, here’s your chance. In this 60-minute length film, Blippi and Meekah set out on their biggest and best dinosaur adventure yet. They’ll meet up with friends like Park Ranger Asher and help to find some missing dino eggs before they hatch.

Oct. 12

LEGO Ninjago: Dragons Rising: Season 1: Part 2

The key to stopping the MergeQuakes from reaching their tipping point lies in the Dragon Cores. Can the Ninja find all three before it’s too late?

Oct. 13

Spy Kids, Spy Kids 2: The Island of Lost Dreams, Spy Kids 3: Game Over

Now that you’ve seen the remake, how about going back to the beginning with the original trilogy? Follow Juni and Carmen as they follow in their super spy parents’ footsteps and help save the world with the help of some super cool spy gear.

Oct. 16

Oggy Oggy: Season 3 

Kind and curious kitty Oggy Oggy wants to spread joy to all his friends and neighbors. But sometimes, he gets into playful mischief instead. Miaow!

Oct. 17

I Woke Up A Vampire 

On her 13th birthday, Carmie discovers that she’s half vampire—and she must learn to navigate middle school while learning to control mythical powers like strength, super speed, and power blast. A fun new TV show for tweens.

Oct. 23

Princess Power: Season 2 

When there’s trouble in the Fruitdoms, these princess pals join forces to help each other—because sometimes problems are too big for just one princess!

Oct. 24

Minions

Gru’s sidekicks get their own feature-length film with this spin-off of the Despicable Me franchise. Find out where the minions came from and why they are obsessed with bananas.

Oct. 25

Life on Our Planet

Life as we know it has fought an epic battle to conquer and survive on Planet Earth. There are 20 million species on our planet in 2023, but that number is just a snapshot in time—99% of Earth’s inhabitants are lost to our deep past. The story of what happened to these dynasties—their rise and their fall–is truly remarkable.

Related: New, Original Family Movies You’ll Only Find on Netflix, Disney+ & Apple TV in 2023

Kids’ Titles Leaving Netflix in October

A League of Their Own

Jumanji

Nanny McPhee

Mr. Peabody & Sherman

Hey Arnold! The Jungle Movie

 

 

They’ll be begging for more of this easy dinner recipe!

While the quintessential American festival and fair food has to be the corn dog, there’s nothing healthy about this food on a stick. We decided to make a healthier version of the corn dog with a kid-friendly twist. Deep frying is replaced by baking, and instead of an unwieldy eat we made these into baked corn dog muffins perfect for little hands. Be sure to check out our other healthy swaps that are picky eater approved!

Ingredients for Corn Dog Muffins:

1 cup of unbleached all-purpose flour
1 cup yellow cornmeal
1/3 cup of sugar
2 1/2 tsp baking powder
1 cup milk
2 large eggs
1/4 vegetable oil
3 hot dogs cut into 1/2 inch pieces (veggie, chicken apple sausage, beef, or any type you like)
Mini muffin tin

Method:

1. Preheat oven to 425 and grease mini muffin tins.

2. Mix the first four dry ingredients in one bowl; mix the wet ingredients in a second bowl. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients.

3. Sautee your 1/2-inch hot dog bites for a few minutes over medium heat.

4. Pour batter into prepared muffin tins until each is 3/4 full. Put one hot dog slice into each batter-filled muffin cup so it’s submerged in the batter.

5. Bake for 13-15 minutes until golden brown.

Related: Healthy Food Swaps That Are Picky Eater Approved

 

 

Just say no to ketchup

Whether your kids were born here or not, they won’t be true Chicagoans without understanding the anatomy of a classic Chicago-style hot dog. No better way to bone up on the subject than to visit some of the best hot dog stands in Chicagoland.

Love ’em or leave ’em, hot dogs are foot-long big in Chicago. The traditional delicacy includes an array of colorful condiments. (However, we’ll give kids a pass on not including them all or, worse yet, on committing sacrilege by using ketchup.)

We love the on-the-go ease (no silverware!) and relative affordability of a “red hot.” Of course, no size fits all, and hot dog stands around the city have developed their own personalities and expanded their menus to accommodate all different preferences.

The Most Authentic: Vienna Beef Factory Store and Cafe

Vienna Beef hot dogs made their debut in 1893 at the World’s Fair/Columbian Exposition and put the Chicago-style hot dog on the culinary map. The low cost made it an institution during the Great Depression, and the appeal never subsided. You’ll find the Vienna Beef hot dog at the core of most Chicago-style vendors around the area. In fact, Vienna Beef operates a Hot Dog University to teach aspiring hot dog vendors, exactly how to achieve a properly dressed Chicago style by “dragging it through the garden.” Taste a true original in the cafe, and if you want to give it a whirl yourself, there are DIY kits available at the factory store to bring home with you.

3847 S. Morgan St.
Beverly

2501 N. Damen Ave.
Bucktown (Returning bigger & better in spring 2024)
Online: viennabeef.com

The Best Drive-Thru: Superdawg

One of the most revered, iconic hot dog destinations, not only in Chicago but in the country at large, is Superdawg. Recognizable for its statues of hot dog characters that stand on the roof of their Norwood Park location, this spot is Americana nostalgia at its best. Pull up in a car and park by one of the intercom stations. You place your order with a staffer and then indulge in your car. Just like the good old-fashioned drive-ins non-kids remember and cherish! It’s a bygone experience, made all the better by crinkle-cut fries, randomly square-shaped scoops of ice cream, and those dogs. Oh, those dogs. The signature Superdawg frankfurter arrives on a poppy seed bun with piccalilli, mustard, pickle, Spanish onions, and hot peppers. Another favorite is the adorably named Whoopskidawg, a char-broiled sausage basted in a “special” sauce with grilled onions and a pickle.

6363 N. Milwaukee Ave.
Norwood Park

333 S. Milwaukee Ave.
Wheeling
Online: superdawg.com

The Kitschy Favorite: Gene & Judes

Since hot dogs and nostalgia go together like ketchup and judgment, enjoy them at old-school sensation Gene & Jude’s. The River Grove favorite has been around since 1946 and is often argued as having the best hot dogs in the country. The kitschy atmosphere feels preserved in time, maintaining the same rustic charm it probably possessed when it first opened. It’s rickety and frills-free, but in the most heartwarming of ways, with surly-but-lovable staffers and a bare-bones menu of hot dogs and fries. Rest assured these hot dogs and fries are exceptional.

2720 River Rd.
River Grove
Online: geneandjudes.com

The Most Legendary: The Weiner’s Circle

The absolute legend, The Wiener’s Circle, is a must-visit but hot-dog-buyer beware: You NEVER know what’s going to be served on the side of your dog at The Wiener’s Circle. But, we can promise it will be filled with a heap of good-spirited sass. If you want a great dog and a hearty laugh, hit this spot for an unforgettable experience, one that will likely teach your kids some new words, but all in good fun. If this makes you a bit nervous, maybe save this one for an adult-only afternoon out.

The Wiener’s Circle reopened in October 2021 after an extended closure for renovations. They’re back and sassier than ever with a new patio, an updated menu (don’t worry, your favorites made the cut), and now serving cocktails. The good-natured banter we all love is still intact, but only order the ketchup if you have a death wish. Trust us!

2622 N. Clark St.
Lincoln Park
Online: wienerscirclechicago.com

The Quickest Fix: Byron’s Hot Dogs

In the shadow of Wrigley Field, this small hot dog stand might be missed, if not for its larger-than-life reputation. Byron’s has been celebrated by the Vienna Hot Dog Hall of Fame as well as at the 2010 Taste of the States White House picnic. Stop by for a quick bite before a game, after a game, or on non-game days. There’s always time for a hot dog at Byron’s.

1017 W. Irving Park Rd.
Wrigleyville

1701 W. Lawrence Ave.
Ravenswood
Online: byronschicago.com

The Most Renowned: Portillo’s

In 1963, Dick Portillo opened a small trailer in Villa Park called The Dog House. Since then, Portillo’s has grown to include more than 70 locations across the U.S. Due to its nationwide notoriety, the Portillo’s hot dog has become synonymous with “Chicago Style” throughout the country. Portillo’s is also famous for its Italian Beef sandwiches, and its decadent chocolate cake.

Locations throughout Chicagoland and the United States
Online: portillos.com

For Veggie Options: Devil Dawgs

They’re known for being one of the best dogs in the city, their sport peppers and milkshakes get rave reviews, but they also serve a vegan dog and a Beyond Burger for those that prefer to go the vegetarian route.

Locations in South Loop, Wicker Park, Lakeview & Gold Coast
Online: devildawgs.com

The Worth-the-Drive Fave: The Dogfather

It doesn’t get any more family-friendly than The Dogfather, a haven of meaty decadence in far west suburban Bartlett. It’s clean and inviting inside and out, and employees radiate friendly vibes. Grab a seat and dig into hot dogs, Italian beef sandwiches, and gyros. The menu is focused and delicious, featuring the classic Chicago-style dog along with a cheese dog, chili dog, chili cheese dog, and Polish sausage. There are kid-sized versions of the dogs, along with crispy sides such as fries, onion rings, tater tots, and mozzarella sticks.

957 Illinois Route 59
Bartlett
Online: dogfatherhotdogs.com

Go Beyond the Bun: The Chicago Dogs

Continue the hot dog theme and spend a family day at the beautiful Impact Field watching The Chicago Dogs, an independent professional baseball team that pays homage to our favorite street food.

9850 Balmoral Ave.
Rosemont
Online: thechicagodogs.com

 

Additional reporting from Maria Chambers

 

If you think that Pasta Carbonara is a dish you can only have in restaurants, you’ll be shocked to see how simple making it really is. Here to break down the steps for any home cook are Gayle Pirie and John Clark, Chefs and Co-owners of Foreign Cinema in San Francisco. Read on for the full recipe.

Ingredients for Pasta Carbonara:

1 pound (or just under) long noodles (spaghettini, fettucini, or linguine)
6 thick slices of smoky bacon
2 Tablespoons pure olive oil
4 eggs
Salt to taste
A chunk of Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
Freshly ground black pepper to taste

Method:

1. Bring lightly salted water to a boil in a large pot. Cook the noodles until tender but firm.

2. While the noodles cook, dice the bacon and cook it in the olive oil until just lightly crisped in a medium sauté pan. Pour off the excess fat, reserving 4 tablespoons in the pan.

3. In a bowl, beat the eggs and season with a little salt.

4. Drain the noodles, saving about 2 tablespoons of water for later. If the pan has cooled down, warm it up again right before adding the noodles.

5. Add the noodles to the warm bacon in the pan; thoroughly toss with the oil and bacon, and season with salt. Work fast and pour the beaten eggs onto the warm noodles and mix well to coat the noodles.

6. Add the reserved pasta water if the noodles look dry. The heat of the noodles and the pan will thicken and set the eggs. If there is not enough heat, turn the burner on very low, just to warm the noodles, then turn it off. Too much heat can scramble the eggs.

7. Once the noodles, egg, and bacon are well mixed, add freshly grated Parmesan cheese, and stir. Freshly ground black pepper is an essential addition. Serve in warm pasta bowls.

 

Partners Gayle Pirie and John Clark are two highly original talents who have been deeply involved in the competitive and innovative ferment of the San Francisco restaurant scene for over two decades. Today, Pirie and Clark are the chef talent, and owners behind the very popular and exciting dining destination- Foreign Cinema. In addition to Foreign Cinema they have published two cookbooks, Country Egg, City Egg in 2000 and Bride and Groom in 2006.