Break out those boogie boards, and this winter, check out these slippery beach sledding spots in LA

There may be snow on the mountains in the distance (and if you want to play in the cold, white fluffy stuff, check out our kid-friendly guide to snow play in LA), but if you want to give kids a fun, only-in-LA sledding experience this winter without having to travel far, head to the beach for some sand dune sledding. Sand berms are man-made sand hills built up by the city to protect the beaches from eroding from winter storms and rough surf. They are a popular spot for sledding in Los Angeles and a beloved activity for locals—and good to know? Boogie boards are great sand sledding devices. Sand berms provide a great way to enjoy the beach during the winter when the weather is typically too cold or windy to enjoy otherwise. These are our favorite spots to climb and slide our way down to the bottom and one of our most-favorite winter activities in LA—most of which can be done for free.

1. Zuma Beach Sand Sledding

best sand sledding in LA

Up the coast in Malibu, Zuma always makes for a beautiful beach day, whether you're crashing in the waves or sledding in the sand. It is a bit more of a trek, so you may want to pack up a picnic along with your sleds and make a day of it. The berms at Zuma are long and much less trafficked than Venice and Hermosa, which also means they aren't as smooth and slick. For a better ride, have the grownups in the group take a few trips down the slope first, to carve out a nice pathway for the little ones—yep, it's a perfect excuse to get a turn on the new sled.

Zuma isn't as busy in the winter, so you should have no trouble grabbing a parking spot in the lot directly behind the sand dunes.

30000 Pacific Coast Hwy.
Malibu
Online: beaches.lacounty.gov

2. Hermosa Beach Sand Sledding

The Hermosa Beach sand berms stretch out from both sides of the Hermosa Pier providing plenty of ocean-front real estate for your little sand bunnies. These hills are a little less steep making them the best spot for the youngest (or most cautious) sledders.

Good to Know: The closest places to park are the two public metered lots on Hermosa Ave. at 11th and 13th St. 

1 Pier Ave.
Hermosa Beach
Online: hermosabeach.gov

3. Venice Pier Sand Sledding

Just south of the Venice Beach Pier is one of the most popular sand sledding spots on the coast. The Venice berm stretches from the pier all along the length of the south parking lot, so despite being a hotspot, there's always plenty of room for everyone. These slopes are usually the biggest of the berms on the coast, making them the go-to spot for young sledders (and grown-ups) looking for the best thrill ride. Late Dec. or early Jan. is usually the best time to visit, as the sand has gotten packed down, making for a smoother, faster ride.

Good to Know: Parking in the lot can cost more on the weekends. You can also look for a spot on Washington Blvd., but it can be a bit of a walk. 

W. Washington Blvd. & Ocean
Venice 
Online: beaches.lacounty.gov

4. Point Mugu State Park Sand Sledding

Catch some sand in the Santa Monica Mountains! While the sledding here is prime, there's more at this location that will easily occupy you and your crew for the day—miles of sandy beaches with rocky bluffs, rugged hills and uplands, two major river canyons, and broad grassy valleys dotted with sycamores and oaks along with 70+ miles of hiking trails.

9000 W. Pacific Coast Hwy.
Malibu
Online: parks.ca.gov

5. Manhattan Beach Sand Dune Park

At the north end of this park, there’s a 100-foot high slope covered in deep sand that kids can climb up and jump, roll, or run down. If your brood grows tired of the sand, there’s also a children’s playground with other facilities including picnic areas, restrooms, and drinking water. The rest of the park includes trails and flora in Manhattan Beach Sand Dune Nature Preserve.

Good to Know: This spot does require reservations, so make sure you secure them before heading here.

Bell Ave. & 33rd St.
Manhattan Beach
Online: manhattanbeach.gov

Take the city at their pace, and discover some accessible parks and museums in NYC that’ll appeal to everyone from the littlest tykes to their aging grandparents

Are the grandparents coming to NYC for a visit? Better get your hug muscles ready! But after the warm welcomes have been doled out, you may want to hit the city streets for some family fun. But if Grandma has a bad back or Grandpa’s hearing isn’t what it used to be, and if the kids are very likely bouncing off the wall with excitement, a New York adventure might seem all but impossible. Is there anywhere in the city that can possible appeal to both your energetic children and aging parents?

Hey, you’re in NYC. There’s something for everyone here! Read on to see the best museums and parks to visit, as well as other tips and tricks for planning the ultimate urban trip with the grandparents.

Where to Stay with Grandparents in NYC

When choosing a hotel or AirBnB for your aging parents to stay, consider two key things: location and accessibility.

If you plan to get around by train or bus (more on this in a bit!), then a central location with close access to train or bus stops is ideal.

Many hotels are accessible and ADA-compliant, but if your parents need some extra assistance, then look for hotels that offer special accessible rooms. These often come with wide doors, a roll-in shower, and buzzers for assistance. Some even have braille-based signage or hearing aids on request.

Some hotels even offer discounts for senior citizens (usually for people ages 55 or 65 and older), so make sure to inquire about that to knock about five to 10 percent off the room price.

Wheelchair Travel has a more complete list of wheelchair accessible hotels in NYC that you can consult when choosing your accommodations.

How to Get Around with Grandparents in NYC

MTA trains and buses

If you’ve lived in NYC for any amount of time, you’ll know that the MTA subway system is both a blessing and a curse. On one hand, it makes a majority of the city accessible from anywhere, but it can also be infuriating to use.

The subway does have accessible stations, which are highlighted on the website. Avoid traveling at rush hour in the morning or afternoon, and it’s often recommended to stay off the subways after dark. It gets very hot in there and can mean a lot of waiting. Make sure you know multiple ways to get to your destination in case of service changes, and check ahead for planned work.

Whenever possible, buses are a better option, and most have a wheelchair ramp. Drivers can also lower the bus to make it easier for people with mobility issues to get on board.

Editor’s Note: Each location suggested in this post will mention nearby trains and buses, although you can also use Google’s trip planner to find the best route to take.

Taxis and ride shares

Cabs and ride shares are also an option, but it can get expensive fast. If you have a family member who’s wheelchair-bound, Uber and Lyft both have the option to request a wheelchair-accessible vehicle (or WAV) through the app.

Wheelchair rental from Thriftway

The Thriftway Pharmacy has wheelchair rentals available for residences and hotels around Manhattan. Place your order ahead of time, and the pharmacy will deliver the wheelchair to you when you need it. The service lets you choose between manual, heavy duty, and transport wheelchairs.

Scootaround mobility vehicle rental

The Scootaround service also provides rentals, with a bit more flexibility: You can get a manual wheelchair, a walker, a scooter, knee walkers, and even more, for relatively fair daily prices. Mobility Rentals will deliver your order to any location in NYC.

Museums to Visit with Grandparents in NYC

Museums are a favorite family activity with grandparents! A few tips for museum visitors (from a writer who used to work at the American Museum of Natural History):

  • Many museums have wheelchairs available to borrow if a family member of yours can’t walk for too long. These are generally first-come, first-serve, so you’re not guaranteed to get one.
  • Many museums are ADA-compliant and some have listening tours if vision impairment is an issue.
  • Since 2020, most museums have timed entry tickets available for purchase online. Plan ahead and buy tickets in advance to avoid having to wait in line.
  • Some museums have busier days that you should note. For instance, the Museum of Natural History used to get absolutely packed when the Metropolitan Museum of Art was still closed on Mondays. Today, your best bet is to avoid weekends and holidays, or visit for ticketed and timed events, which usually limit capacity. You can also call the museum to find out what times are the busiest so you’ll know to avoid them.
  • Although all the museums in NYC are fantastic, we’ve highlighted some options that are either very accessible to older visitors, or offer special services and events that may appeal to your aging parents.

The Jewish Museum

The Jewish Museum features Jewish art and culture throughout the years. Although this is a great museum for people from any culture, it’s especially powerful to visit if your family or grandparents are Jewish. Use the art to start a conversation between generations and bring the culture of your kids’ grandparents to life through the museum’s collections.

The museum stands across the street from Central Park, and on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., the museum is surrounded by a number of open streets, allowing for safe passage to all visitors with no cars. For lunch, walk down Madison Ave. for fare that’s on the expensive side but varied, from pizza to halal.

Accessibility: The museum makes accessibility a priority, providing visitors who need them with large-print labels, captioned videos, verbal description audio tours, and the integration of hearing loops at the admissions desk and shop. Unlike most other museums, you can reserve a wheelchair ahead of time by emailing the museum.

Besides the regular accessibility features, the Jewish Museum holds ongoing programs for visitors with disabilities, like ASL tours and interpreters, family workshops for kids and adults with developmental or learning disabilities, and special exhibit programs for individuals with memory loss.

Nearby trains: 4, 6 (96th St.)
Nearby buses: M1, M2, M3, M4

1109 5th Ave. at 92nd St.
Upper East Side
Online: thejewishmuseum.org

Folk Art Museum

This free museum pays homage to self-taught artists throughout the ages. Featuring folksy artworks, crafts, sculptures, and more, the Folk Art Museum is a quaint spot to take the whole fam. The bright, colorful exhibits are a treat for the eyes and different mediums and textures make the displays interesting at any age.

It’s located just a block away from Lincoln Center, which is also worth a look and often has outdoor public events, so you can plan ahead and make a day of it.

Accessibility: The museum is fully wheelchair-accessible, and wheelchairs are available to borrow while they’re available. Visitors who are blind or partially sighted can request verbal description and touch tours, and the museum regularly hosts “Art Beyond Sight” events where visitors can get hands-on with art. ASL interpreters can be requested for tours and programs ahead of time.

It has also held a number of programs titled “Folk Art Reflections,” in which individuals with memory loss and Alzheimer’s can take part in conversations about art. All these events and accommodations are free.

Nearby trains: 1, 2 (66th St.-Lincoln Center), A C, B (72nd St.)
Nearby buses: M5, M7, M10, M11, M66, M72, M104

2 Lincoln Square
Lincoln Square
Online: folkartmuseum.org

The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum

Ship, plane, and rocket buffs among the family will love this museum, which is housed on a massive aircraft carrier in the waters by Pier 86. Yep, the entire museum is also one of the exhibits! The Intrepid is home to the space shuttle Enterprise, the fastest jets in the world, a submarine equipped to fire guided missiles, and other exhibits that come and go.

For lunch, you’ll have to walk over to 10th Ave., where you’ll find restaurants from a mix of cultures (Mexican, Thai, and Korean on just one block), and this writer’s personal favorite, Peruvian restaurant Pio Pio.

Accessibility: You may think that a ship isn’t the best place to take the older members of the family, but the Intrepid is actually mostly accessible by wheelchair. There are no wheelchairs to borrow, but you can borrow some lightweight stools to carry around with you for convenient seating anywhere in the museum.

The Intrepid caters to individuals who are older or disabled by providing verbal description and tactile guides, large print and braille labeling, and talking pens are available to borrow. The museum’s exhibits are equipped with induction loops for anyone who uses hearing aids, and special events have assistive listening devices for loan.

Throughout the month, the Intrepid holds programs for various visitors who may need a different kind of experience, including sensory friendly hours for kids and teens, tours for people with dementia and their caretakers, and more accessibility programs.

Nearby trains: the closest train station is W. 42nd St. & Port Authority (1, 2, 3, 7, A, E, N, R, Q and W), but it’s at least a 15-minute walk, so we don’t recommend this route
Nearby buses: M12, M50

Pier 86
W 46th St. and 12th Ave.
Hell’s Kitchen
Online: intrepidmuseum.org

Whitney Museum of American Art

Now more than ever, art in the media is shaping our world—and the Whitney Museum is a celebration of this. Wander through galleries of 20th- and 21st-century artworks, sculptures, prints, photographs, films, and more by over 3,500 artists from America’s recent history. You may discover that your kids’ love for memes isn’t as new or odd as it may seem to the grandparents at first glance!

Located in the Meatpacking District, the museum building is a work of art on its own, and has several open streets around it for a casual and relaxed meander. Continue your celebration of American art with burgers, cafes, and steakhouses within walking distance of the museum.

Accessibility: The Whitney hosts ASL tours for deaf and hard of hearing visitors. It also has verbal and touch tours of its exhibits, which also has wheelchairs, stools, and assistive listening devices to borrow. These tours are led by trained educators who’ll describe each artwork in detail, painting a mental picture of it for anyone who can’t clearly see it. Visitors will also be able to handle replicas of certain installations and sculptures.

Nearby trains:  A, C, E, L (14th St.-8th Ave.)
Nearby buses: M11, M12

99 Gansevoort St.
Meatpacking District
Online: whitney.org

Museum of Arts and Design

This stylish museum focuses on ingenuity and design, displaying artwork, sculptures, and artifacts that showcase the intersection of art and function. The museum takes a closer look at the beauty and design behind our surroundings, from the weird to the wonderful.

It’s located on the southwestern tip of Central Park, where you can follow wide, paved paths along slight hills and dips to enjoy the southern end of the park. Bring some lunch and have a picnic, or wander over to The Shops at Columbus Circle for an upscale shopping experience. Just be careful of the traffic when crossing the streets around the Circle!

Accessibility: MAD offers free or reduced-fee admissions for individuals with disabilities and their caregivers and the entire museum is wheelchair-accessible. Portable stools and manual wheelchairs can be borrowed from the front desk, and you can request an ASL interpreter or a listening device for the museum’s program and events.

Nearby trains: A, B, C, D, 1, 2 (59th St.-Columbus Circle), F, R, N, Q, W (57th St.)
Nearby buses: M5, M7, M11, M12, M31, M57, M104

Jerome and Simona Chazen Building
2 Columbus Circle
Midtown
Online: madmuseum.org

Queens County Farm Museum

This farm and museum is a bit out of the way, but it’s well worth a visit if you have any animal and nature lovers in the family. The farm has been in use since 1697 and is still an active farm today, and you’ll find fresh produce and honey for purchase that’s grown and harvested on location. Wander around the historic farm buildings and greenhouses, or check out the old farm vehicles and tools, orchard, and herb garden. The farm also has beautiful flowers to smell and well-loved livestock to greet and feed!

The museum has plenty of activities, workshops and events for both kids and adults, and admission is free except on special ticketed days.

Accessibility: The farm’s 47 acres are a bit of a walk and there aren’t too many places to sit, so this trip can be difficult for older visitors, but the grounds and restrooms are wheelchair-accessible. There aren’t too many food options in the area, so be sure to pack lunch!

Nearby trains: the county farm is just out of reach of the city’s train system—there are no nearby train stations, so arriving by car is highly recommended
Nearby buses: Q36

73-50 Little Neck Pkwy
Glen Oaks
Online: queensfarm.org

The Cooper Hewitt Museum

A museum dedicated to design may seem high-minded, but there is plenty here to please everyone. One of our favorites is the Immersion Room, an interactive space where visitors can select digital images from the museum’s vast wallpaper selection or draw their own designs and have them projected onto the walls all around. Also popular: the beautiful birdcages collected by the Hewitt sisters, who founded the museum, and the extensive family programming.

The charming outdoor space next to the museum is a favorite hangout for neighborhood parents looking to picnic and let their little ones roam. Grab a bite at Tarallucci e Vino, the museum’s own outpost of the beloved Union Square modern Italian café, and enjoy your food outdoors.

Accessibility: The museum entrance, exhibits, and restrooms are all wheelchair-accessible. The museum also loans out manual wheelchairs and portable stools on a first-come, first-serve basis at the coat check, found by the 91st St. entrance.

Large-print labels can be downloaded from exhibit pages online or acquired at the Visitor Experience desk. There’s also an audio description for all exhibit videos. You request assistance for deaf or hard of hearing visitors by calling or emailing the museum.

Nearby trains: 4, 5, 6 (96th St.), Q (86th-2nd Ave.)
Nearby buses: M1, M2, M3, M4, M96

2 E. 91st St.
Upper East Side
Online: cooperhewitt.org

Parks to Visit with Grandparents in NYC

New York City parks are more than just Central and Brooklyn’s Prospect Park—although, of course, those are lovely to visit as well. They’re also largely accessible, featuring wide, smooth paths and many places to sit and rest along the way.

But there are many more parks to explore, and we’ve highlighted some of our favorite NYC green spaces that adults and kids can enjoy together. We’ve also noted the accessibility features of each park, so you know before you go what to expect. You can find a complete list of accessible facilities—like sports courts, beaches, hiking trails, and more—on the NYC Parks website.

Socrates Sculpture Park

Imagine a museum of sculptures . . . but entirely outdoors and completely free. That’s essentially what the Socrates Sculpture Park has to offer visitors. The unique park sits on the East River waterfront and spans five acres of gently rolling grassy hills. Housed in the park are sculptures from various artists from around the city and around the world, ranging from beautiful metal contraptions to colorful billboards, functional art benches, and much more. The park has no permanent exhibits, so this is a place you can go every time the grandparents are in town and find something different on each visit.

Besides the appeal of the sculptures, the park is generally a nice place to relax and unwind, or enjoy a view of the city across the river. Plus, the park has free Wi-Fi, so if the kids need a distraction on devices while the grandparents (and, let’s face it, parents) catch their breath, the park’s got that covered for you.

Accessibility: There’s not a step or stair to be found in the entire park (except for a brief time when an exhibit features stair sculptures leading to nowhere). The park perimeter is paved, allowing for easy walking and wheelchair access. At special events, the park lays out mobi-mats on the lawn for wheelchairs, and there are listening aid devices available to borrow (although you’ll need to call in advance to request one).

It’s important to note that from November until April, the park has no public restroom facilities. (April-October has porta-potties, including an ADA/wheelchair accessible one).

Nearby trains: the closest train station is Broadway (N, W) but it’s a bit of a walk
Nearby buses: Q104, Q104

32-01 Vernon Blvd.
Long Island City
Online: socratessculpturepark.org

Wave Hill

Wave Hill is a beautiful 28-acre space with lush gardens as well as structures and artwork inspired by nature. This place has something for everyone: Kids can take part in regularly scheduled workshops and arts and crafts events, while adults can take it slow and enjoy the scenery at a slower pace.

Stop by the pergola for incredible views of the Hudson River and the Palisades, framed by green and colorful plants. The family will also enjoy the herb and flower gardens for delicious scents and colors to engage your senses.

Accessibility: Many areas of Wave Hill, including all indoor spaces, are accessible by wheelchair, though some parts of the gardens are too difficult to navigate. You can plan ahead, though, as these areas are marked in the garden map, which you can access online. Manual wheelchairs are available to borrow (no reservations, though), as are mobility assistance vehicles, which are driven by garden staff.

Nearby trains: 1 (Van Cortlandt Park-W. 242nd St)
Nearby buses: Bx7, Bx10

4900 Independence Ave.
Riverdale
Online: wavehill.org

Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Garden

The scenic Snug Harbor has 83 acres to explore, featuring a variety of flowers, trees and plants, historic buildings and a Scholar’s Garden based on a walled Chinese. There are also a number of museums to visit (including a children’s museum) and countless events and programs. There’s plenty of room for kids to run around and enjoy themselves while the adults take their time and enjoy the scenery.

Accessibility: Most of the gardens are accessible for wheelchairs and lower mobility individuals, with the exception of a few places in the Scholar’s Garden (though you can still see the entire garden). Visitors are encouraged to call the Rangers if you require any assistance getting around the gardens, especially the Scholar’s Garden.

The park and botanical garden is always making accessibility improvements, adding new walkways, removing uneven paving, and generally making it easier to get around.

Nearby trains: to get here by public transit, follow the directions on the Snug Harbor website.

1000 Richmond Terrace
Staten Island
Online: snug-harbor.org

Governors Island

This island, which used to be occupied by soldiers and then the coast guard, is now an oasis from the fast pace of NYC. History buffs in your family will love seeing the old fort and Castle Williams and learning the history of the island and its occupants over the ages. (If this is your cup of tea, the free tours offered by the island’s visitor center are chock-full of interesting historical information!) There’s also a farm (open only on weekends), several large natural playgrounds, giant slides, and fountain sprinklers for the kids, with lots of shaded seating for accompanying adults. Chill out on the hammocks, keep your eyes peeled for the resident,though seasonal, sheep grazing around the island, or just wander the island enjoying the artworks on display. Some of the historical houses have been converted to impromptu museums and art houses, although not all are wheelchair-accessible due to steps at the entrance.

When the fam gets famished, you can head to the mainstays of the island for tacos, oysters, or pizza—or grab something from the mobile vendors. The kimchi fries are amazing!

Accessibility: The island has very wide paved roadways that meander around to all parts of the island. Even the hills have wheelchair access, including a ramp to a lookout point, where you can view the Statue of Liberty and NYC and New Jersey skylines (the youngsters in your group will probably prefer to climb up the large rocks to the outlook instead). The island has recently started offering tram rides for visitors with limited mobility or wheelchairs on Fridays and weekends. Ferries are, of course, also wheelchair-accessible.

If taking the ferry from 10 S. St. Slip 7 in Manhattan:
Nearby trains: R, W (Whitehall St.) 1 (South Ferry) 4, 5 (Bowling Green)
Nearby buses: M15, M20, M55

If taking the ferry from Brooklyn Bridge Park Pier 6 in Brooklyn (weekends only):
Nearby trains: R, 2, 3, 4, 5 (Borough Hall-Court St.)
Nearby buses: B61, B63

If taking the ferry from Red Hook/Atlantic Basin in Brooklyn (weekends only):
Nearby trains: F, G (Smith-9th St.)
Nearby buses: B61

Governors Island
Online: govisland.com

 

Little Island

Little Island is like a miniature version of Governors Island, and even easier to access. Opened in 2021, this park-on-the-water is NYC’s newest island. The park has something for everyone: children’s activities and interactive artworks, shaded tables and chairs to sit and eat or rest, gentle rolling hills (easy to traverse at any level of mobility), regular art and performances, and absolutely gorgeous greenery and plants.

While you’re here, you can hop over to the old-railroad-line-turned-park, the High Line (which is also entirely wheelchair accessible). End your adventure at Hudson Yards, where you can shop around, snap pics with the whimsical sculptures, and grab some grub.

Accessibility: All parts of Little Island are accessible, and the park has two loaner wheelchairs for visitors to borrow. Special events and performances sometimes have ASL interpreters, and you can borrow hearing aids for the duration of any performance. There are also special spots for wheelchair and mobility scooters at the Amph, the island’s performance space.

Nearby trains: A, C, E, L (14th St.-8th Ave.)
Nearby buses: M11, M12

Pier 55 at Hudson River Park
Online: littleisland.org

Other Must-Do Activities For Grandparents in NYC

Pier 25 Mini-Golf

When the weather is good, Pier 25 in Tribeca has an 18-hole mini golf course, sand volleyball courts, and a children’s playground.

Whoever gets the winning score in mini-golf can treat to lunch at the food court at nearby Brookfield Place. Located inside of the city’s own high-end shopping mall, this incredible modern eating place is a home to outposts of more than a dozen of NYC’s cult favorite foodie spots: Blue Ribbon Sushi, Black Seed Bagel, Sprinkles cupcakes, Mighty Quinn’s Barbeque, and more. Bonus: After you eat, try leaving the kids with the grandparents (the mall hosts its own kids shows and exhibitions) while you take a shop-op.

Nearby trains: 1, 2 (Franklin St.)
Nearby buses: M20, M22

Pier 25 at N. Moore St.
Tribeca
Online: hudsonriverpark.org

Dave & Busters

This fun arcade is a treat for kids and grown ups, featuring arcade games new and old for kids, and food and a bar (for the adults) with plenty of seating. Some games have seating, and there are even experiences for anyone in the family who wants to sit and enjoy a display without needing to actually provide any input.

Accessibility: The arcade floor and restrooms are accessible, but note that it does get crowded, especially in the evenings and on weekends and holidays. Wheelchair-bound members of the family may struggle to maneuver around the game floor, so this may be a better option if your parents are up and about. Plus, that way, you may get to see Grandma or Grandpa break out their dance moves on a DDR machine!

Nearby trains: E, B, D, F, M (42nd St.-Bryant Park), 7, A, C, E, N, Q, R, W (42nd St.-Times Square)
Nearby buses: M20, M104

234 W. 42nd St., 3rd Fl.
Times Square
Online: daveandbusters.com

Top of the Rock

Rockefeller Center is a must-visit for anyone who’s never been to NYC before. It’s been in the media in so many forms—from the annual Christmas tree and ice skating rink coverage to the hilarious 30 Rock TV show—and your parents are sure to enjoy seeing it any time of year.

Although the bottom levels of the center are always a treat, the real draw is Top of the Rock, where you can get incredible birds-eye views of the city. Lines here tend to be shorter than at the Empire State Building, and at this spot, you actually get to see the Empire State Building itself—and clear over Central Park and across the city.

Accessibility: Top of the Rock is fully accessible by wheelchair, and you can request transcripts of the short films. Visitors also receive audio headsets during tours for clarity, and guides can slow down or speak up as needed on request.

Nearby trains: B, D, F, M (47-50th St.-Rockefeller Center), E, M (5th Ave.-53rd St.)
Nearby buses: M5, M7, M50

30 Rockefeller Plaza
Midtown
Online: topoftherocknyc.com

NYC Libraries, and the Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library

The city’s libraries are always worth a visit, even if you don’t have a library card. Check the library by your house or the grandparents’ hotel for upcoming events while they visit, and consider stopping by for laid-back community experiences. There are many activities for senior and child visitors (yes, sometimes both), library facilities tend to be accessible, and almost all events are free and don’t require a library card to participate. So, while all the adventures you have planned are exciting and fun, the kids can also enjoy a library read-along or crafting session (or magic show!) with their grandparents.

The Andrew Heiskell Braille and Talking Book Library is exactly what it sounds like: A fully accessible library with materials specifically for individuals who are limited in their vision and can’t enjoy books in their original written form.

Visitors can browse through books in various formats like braille, talking books and magazines, players, apps, and more. The library also hosts accessible programs, workshops, and events Best of all, you can use your own NYC library card to check out materials if your aging parents want reading material for their stay.

Nearby trains: R, N, W (23rd St.), F, M (14th St.-6th Ave.)
Nearby buses: M1, M2, M3, M7, M55

40 W. 20th St.
Flatiron District
Online: nypl.org

Circle Line Boat Tours

Don’t want to (or can’t) walk but still want to check out the main sights of the city? Hop on a Circle Line boat tour instead! These tours will take you around the city from the point of view of the water, allowing a unique view of the NYC skyline, the Statue of Liberty (no waiting in line!), and more than 100 NYC landmarks.

It’s a relaxing way to see a lot of the city without all the walking that it would generally entail. Sightseeing cruises last 1, 2, or 2.5 hours and are fun events for the whole family.

When the temps dip and the trees turn all shades of orange, it’s time to hit the trails

Leaves are changing color, and there’s a fresh autumnal smell in the air—what a good excuse to explore the great outdoors! Pull on your hiking boots, grab plenty of water, and perhaps a sweater too—because fall is the perfect season for hitting the trail with your little adventurers. From mountain rambles and forested strolls to historic walks and more, you can discover them all this fall.

Best Fall Hikes in the West

Cascade Springs | Provo, UT

person hiking through park in the fall
Aaron Burden/Unsplash

Teeming with natural beauty and wildlife all year, Cascade Springs is especially nice in the fall. Boardwalk trails lead you over bridges and around the artesian springs, with waterfalls tumbling down limestone terraces into pools. Aspens, maples, and oaks provide the fall color. Watch out for moose!

Insider Tip: You’ll enjoy the journey as well as the destination—it’s a scenic drive up American Fork Canyon to get to Cascade Springs.

Online: gohebervalley.com/Cascade-Springs

Mt. Rainier National Park | Pierce and Lewis County, WA

This dormant volcano erupts with color in the fall. Drive to Sunrise, the highest point you can reach by vehicle, in early fall and take the Mt. Rainier Gondola (with the whole fam, including pooch) to the summit of Crystal Mountain. You can hike along the ridge for beautiful views of Mt. Rainier amid snowmelt and fall sunshine (accessible only through September). Later in the fall try the Alta Vista, Naches Peak Loop, and Moraine trails. There’s lots of wildlife to spot, including friendly mule deer.

Insider Tip: Check out our guide to the Naches Peak Loop Trail and, if you've got littles, you may enjoy Five Fall Hikes for Kids Five and Under.

Online: nps.gov/mora

Breckenridge, CO

teen girl hiking in the mountains above Breckenridge
Kate Loweth

When you first think of Breckenridge, chances are you think of it as a premier destination for skiing and other winter sports. We actually think that the fall is really the ideal time to head to Breckenridge as its elevation makes it one of the first spots in the country to welcome autumn. The town itself sits at just over 9,000 feet in elevation and there are numerous hiking options nearby. We particularly liked driving up Boreas Pass Road to the Black Powder Pass trailhead. This hike takes you above the tree line and is perfect for seeing the whole area from above. Keep your eyes peeled for mountain goats and moose while you are there! 

Castle Rock State Park | Los Gatos, CA

On a high ridge in the Santa Cruz Mountains, Castle Rock State Park boasts amazing rock formations (called “bosses” by geologists). The best hike for families is the Castle Rock Loop which takes you through a mossy madrone forest. There’s easy bouldering for kids along the trail (no equipment needed) and you can take a short detour to Castle Rock Falls.

Insider Tip: After your hike, explore the nearby little town of Los Gatos.

Online: parks.ca.gov

Hug Point Beach | Cannon Beach, OR

Helen Walker Green

Slip off your shoes, and go for a hike along one of the quietest and most beautiful beaches on the Oregon coast. Skip rocks, and explore caves, coves, and waterfalls. Be sure to come at low tide—there’s more underwater life to see, tide pools to be discovered, and you can walk further down the beach. Low tide also reveals an old stagecoach trail (stagecoaches used to “hug” the edge to avoid the tides, hence the name of the beach). In the Portland area? Check out our recommendations for where to see fall colors.

Insider Tip: Dogs can slip off their leashes too! This off-leash beach means freedom for Fido and the kids.

Online: oregonhikers.org

Palomar Mountain State Park | San Diego County, CA

A nice escape from the bustle of the city, the cool forests and meadows of Palomar Mountain have a similar climate to the Sierra Nevada Mountains many miles to the north, making it a welcome change from the hot temps of this region. Start out on the easy Doane Valley Nature Trail—there are many forks on the trail (make sure you don’t get lost) connecting to other trails and more adventures. If you take the fork to the French Valley Trail you'll wander through woodlands and meadows to a waterfall. If you want to start the littles out on something easier first, check out Best San Diego Hikes for Kids under Five.

Insider Tip: The unusual climate means that some creatures here are unique to Palomar Mountain. Look out for the Palomar Banana Slug—sure, you can find their relatives in Northern California and the Pacific Northwest but these guys are the only banana slugs to survive in SoCal!

Online: palomarsp.org

Coconino National Forest | Sedona, AZ

Arizona’s red rock country is breathtaking year-round, but it explodes with color in the fall. There are some beautiful hikes around Sedona, including the West Fork of Oak Creek Canyon which takes you along the canyon floor by a stream and across stepping stones, and the Broken Arrow Trail which will lead you up to the Devil’s Dining Room sinkhole, Submarine Rock, Mushroom Rock, and more gorgeous vistas.

Insider Tip: Fall is the perfect time for hitting the trails in Sedona, as temps cool down, making hiking more pleasant.

Online: fs.usda.gov/asnf

Solstice Canyon | Malibu, CA

Your fam, including your four-legged kids, can hit the trails in the Santa Monica Mountains. The Solstice Canyon Loop is a cool shaded canyon hike. Populated with local deciduous trees, you’ll be sure to spot some falling yellow and red leaves through the beginning of December. You’ll see the Keller House (the oldest stone building in Malibu), and the Solstice Waterfall and creek. There's lots to explore including the ruins of a 1950's ranch. Look out for alligator lizards on the trail! For other fall color hikes in the Los Angeles area, take a look at where to see fall colors.

Insider Tip: If you scramble up the rocky trail to the top of the waterfall in Solstice Canyon you’ll find some awesome pools, but please be careful!

Online: nps.gov/samo

Best Fall Hikes in the South

Caprock Canyons State Park, TX

Bats and bison make their home in Caprock Canyons State Park. Fall brings cool temps, perfect for hiking with the family, and if you can stay up late, there's amazing stargazing too. Try the one-mile Mesa trail, or take in a small section of the Caprock Canyons Trailway, which spans 41 miles, and crosses 46 bridges and a railroad tunnel.

Insider Tip: If you visit in early fall, you can catch the Mexican Free-Tailed Bats of Clarity Tunnel before they migrate south for the winter.

Onlinetpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/caprock-canyons

Related: Stargazing 101: Your Guide to Mastering Astronomy with Kids

Great Smoky Mountains | NC, TN, GA

Each fall, the Smokies are awash with bright colors—this mountain range is home to over 100 native species of tree, many deciduous—making the Smokies one of the best places in the country to view fall foliage. Kid-sized hikes include Baskins Creek Falls and Schoolhouse Gap. You can see the sweep of color making its way down the mountains, as fall changes come first to the higher elevations, then gradually reach the foothills. For more Georgia fall color, check out: 3 Places to See Fantastic Fall Foliage

Insider Tip: Head over to the Smokies' fall color website to find the best time to hit the trail.

Online: nps.gov/grsm/index.htm

Related: These Cozy Cabins Are Perfect for Your Next Smoky Mountains Visit

Best Fall Hikes in the Midwest

Glacier National Park | MT

Mid-September to Mid-October is a great time to visit Montana's glorious Glacier National Park—the summer rush of visitors is over, and the leaves of the larch trees are turning a beautiful shade. Rob Taylor, of 2 Travel Dads blog, recommends the Avalanche Lake trail in Lake McDonald Valley or Redrock Falls in the Many Glacier Valley. Avalanche Lake is a short hike where you'll cross over streams and walk through woods to the lake. Redrock Falls is a little more challenging, but you'll be rewarded with amazing views of the mountains.

Insider Tip: Rob says hikers may be able to paddle in some of the lower levels of Redrock Falls, but use caution, of course!

Online: nps.gov/glac

Related: The Very Best Family Travel Blogs to Bookmark Now

Sand Run Park | Akron, OH

Summit Metro Parks

This Ohio park is full of history; the Portage Path running through it was once the western border of the United States. Today, you can follow that historic route, or take one of many other trails in the park. Look out for the plentiful wildlife (including screech, barred, and great horned owls and red, gray, and fox squirrels). You'll also spy some awesome fall colors.

Insider Tip: Take part in Summit Metro Parks Fall Hiking Spree, which will take you to some amazing parks and trails—from caves and marshes to steep valleys and waterfalls. This annual event has been going since 1964 and encourages families to explore the many trails in their community.

Online: summitmetroparks.org

Rock Cut State Park – Rockford, Il

So named because it was chiseled through the rocks by a river—this state park has lots of activities for the whole family year-round but is especially lovely in the fall when leaves are painted with red and gold. There’s a lot of wildlife to be seen, including deer, fox, muskrat, beaver, and woodchuck (perhaps you can find out how much wood a woodchuck can chuck). There are a few easy hikes in the park including one that loops around a lake. Nearby, you’ll find the town of Rockford—the place where pioneers once forded the fast-moving Rock River in their wagons. Here are some more colorful spots for fall family strolls in the Chicago area.

Insider Tip: Your little hikers can do a spot of bird watching in this park. See if you can spot a Great Blue Heron and a Ruddy Duck. If you're REALLY lucky you may see the elusive Snow Goose!

Online: dnr.illinois.gov/Parks/

Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore | Munising, MI

Collin Rose via Unsplash

15 miles of colorful sandstone give the towering cliffs of Pictured Rocks their name. You’ll find caves, arches, and unusual rock formations, all naturally stained by minerals from Lake Superior. This National Lakeshore has wonderful fall hikes that capture the beauty of both the cliffs and the changing of the seasons. The Chapel Trail Mosquito Falls Loop is a great hike for families with big kids; it takes you past two waterfalls and along part of the 42-mile Lakeshore Trail with spectacular scenery. It’s not recommended for the littles as the trail goes along the clifftops. Families have several nature trails and day hikes to choose from including hikes to waterfalls, shipwrecks, dunes, and the Au Sable Lighthouse.

Insider Tip: After your hike, hop on a boat cruise to get a good look at the cliffs from a different vantage point.

Online: nps.gov/PIRO/

Best Fall Hikes in the East

Staunton River State Park | Scottsburg, VA

vastateparksstaff via Wiki Commons

One of the six original state parks that opened in 1936, Staunton River has a variety of terrain—from woodlands and meadows to the sandy shoreline of Buggs Island Lake. Much of the landscape is unchanged from the times when Revolutionary and Civil War troops camped here. There are several hikes to choose from but the best one to try with mini-hikers is the easy Tutelo Trail.

Insider Tip: Staunton River State Park is certified by the International Dark-Sky Association. This means the night skies are very dark there and minimally impacted by city lights. The park hosts Star Parties throughout the year.

Onlinedcr.virginia.gov/state-parks/staunton-river

Angel Falls, Rangeley Lakes | Franklin County, ME

You’ll hike through a forest of sugar maple, American beech, and yellow birch to get to one of Maine’s highest and most spectacular waterfalls. Angel Falls gets its name from the shape the cascading water makes—some say it looks like an angel’s wings. This short hike follows mountain streams (you’ll have to scramble over boulders and do a bit of wading to cross them, but it's still family-friendly). Depending on how much water is flowing at the time you’re there, you may be able to make it to the base of the falls. If you do, look up for amazing views.

Insider Tip: “There’s gold in them thar hills” ... people used to pan for gold up here but the real gold in this forest is maple syrup‚ these sugar maples make syrup that's double the usual sweetness!

Online: rangeley-maine.com/attractions

Wawayanda State Park Sussex and Passaic County, NJ

There are many easy trails along the wooded shoreline of this park (and one very challenging one—the Appalachian Trail). The Cherry Ridge Trail travels alongside Lake Wawayanda, across a stone bridge, by beaver ponds to a rare swamp of White Atlantic Cedar. The Cedar Swamp Trail will take you across the swamp on boardwalks and through rhododendron tunnels.

Insider Tip: Civil War buffs, look out for the ruins of a charcoal blast furnace used to produce iron for the Union armies. You might also spot mine shafts belonging to the abandoned Wawayanda Mine.

Online: nj.gov

Sure, you’re hot and sweaty. But don’t let being pregnant in summer get you down. Next time you’re struggling with your summer bump, stay cool, think of your mocktail as half full, and remember these reasons why a summer pregnancy is actually pretty great.

pregnant woman by a pool with kids playing in the pool-pregnant in summer

photo: iStock

1. You don’t need as many maternity clothes. Forget the bump-friendly jackets and hard pants. You’ll be rocking flowy dresses. Buy a stretchy bikini and you may not even need a maternity swimsuit.

2. All that delicious summer produce. Get your nutrients thanks to in-season fruits and veggies like sweet corn, watermelon, berries, zucchini, tomatoes and stone fruits. Most you don’t have to cook, so meals come together fast.

3. Exercise is easier to schedule. Longer days and comfortable temps mean you’ll be looking forward to taking a long walk at dusk or going for a swim.

4. Vitamin D, baby. This powerhouse vitamin is important both for you and the baby, and those long, sunny summer days help you get your daily dose.

woman in hammock smiling wearing a sunhat and sunglasses - pregnant in summe

photo: Jordan Bauer via Unsplash

5. It’s the season for dressing down. Forget trying to stuff your pregnant self into jeans or sweating in your sweaters. Summer is all about easy-to-wear maxi dresses, flowing linen tops, and comfortable cotton tanks and shorts.

6. You can fit in relaxation time more easily. Summertime is synonymous with vacation, so many workplaces slow down and the living is just more easy. Lay in a hammock, lounge by the pool, or take a babymoon with your sweetie.

7. You have an excuse to see all the summer blockbusters. When your body is working overtime, stepping into an air-conditioned theater is considered self-care. If theaters aren’t your thing, buy a projector and watch movies on a wall at home or, better yet, out in the backyard.

8. Dare to bare your bump. Gone are the days of having to hide that you’re growing an amazing person inside of you. Being pregnant in summer is the perfect excuse to show off that baby belly, so break out those fitted outfits.

woman eating ice cream in kitchen - pregnant in summer

photo: Evieanna Santiago via Unsplash

9. Claim you’re eating ice cream for the calcium. Your baby’s need for bone-building calcium gives you the perfect excuse to grab a cone. Or two. Healthy pregnancy smoothies are also on the menu.

10. Swollen feet are a great reason to wear flip-flops 24/7. Thanks to pregnancy hormones, a gal’s feet can grow half a size, not to mention that fun pregnancy swelling. Swap out painful footwear for cushy flip-flops to give your feet a break.

11. You’ll have easier access to swimming pools. Submerging yourself in water gives you instant relief from the heat as well as aches and pains. Plus, there is no more gentle (but effective!) exercise than swimming or water aerobics when you’re working out for two. 

12. Your snuggly, warm cuddle buddy will arrive just in time for cooler weather. Having your baby in your arms as the days turn cooler is an excellent reward for being pregnant in summer. Baby snuggles are always special, but there is something particularly wonderful about cuddling a newborn wrapped in a fuzzy blanket in the fall and winter months.

—Suzanna Palmer & Eva Ingvarson Cerise

RELATED STORIES:
8 Tips for Keeping Cool This Summer
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Newborns are wonderful at all times of year, but a winter baby comes with its own special kind of warmth. Read on for 18 reasons to appreciate your cold-weather cutie!

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1. After a long night with baby, it is socially acceptable to wear pajamas 24/7 or curl up in an oversized sweater and leggings day after day after day. (And yes, we know, 2020 insured most of us were doing this anyway). 

2. If baby arrives by the holidays, you’ll get to show off the best gift ever. And you have a good excuse for not cooking, cleaning or hosting.

3. No guilt for not socializing! Chilly weather, COVID and other people's colds are just two great reasons to stay in and snuggle in front of the fire.

 

iStock

4. You could join a pit crew with your diaper-changing speed. Can’t let that baby get chilled!

5. You’ll never "get" to host a summer-birthday pool party with a dozen short, noisy humans who think of a pool as a giant collective toilet bowl.

6. That super-attractive sweat trail from the back to the ankles that baby-wearing moms get in the summer? Yeah, you don’t have it right now.

 

7. You know that true happiness is curling up on the couch with a cozy blanket and warm bundle of baby, aka your own portable heat source.

8. You secretly gloat over how your feet never swelled up like giant pufferfish during the last months of your pregnancy.

9. You’re probably still wearing stretchy pants, so indulge in that yummy holiday food you only get once a year.

tel13588006626 via Pixabay

10. Seasonally spiced hot lattes are the order of the day (literally) when you’ve been up all night with a newborn. All those still-pregnant spring and summer mamas will be jealous you're enjoying caffeine again.

11. Baby hats. There are few things cuter than newborns in ridiculous winter hats.

12. You have a perfect excuse to stay inside and nap with baby when any snow falls.

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13. You can think less about how your post-baby beach body is going to look come summer (that's months away!) and more about what warm, delicious comfort food is in your immediate future.

14. You’ve already got plans for that extra tax break (assuming baby was evicted before the ball drops on New Year’s Eve).

15. You don't have to stress about slathering sunscreen on a newborn.

iStock

16. You can breastfeed without feeling like a sweaty dairy cow in summer's heat.

17. Those tiny-baby-in-a-giant-snowsuit photos are one of a kind.

18. By the time spring comes, your baby will be more mobile, and you can enjoy the longer, warmer days outside. Bring on the long walks and park outings!

— Suzanna Palmer

RELATED STORIES:

10 Winter-Themed Activities to Keep Baby Busy When Cabin Fever Strikes

8 Ways to Get Active This Winter (Baby Included!)

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What’s the best part of Hanukkah? It’s not the gifts, learning how to spin a dreidel or chocolate gelt (although we do like an excuse for chocolate). It’s latkes. That’s right, potato latkes—the perfect excuse to eat food fried in oil (as if we really needed one). Even if you want to throw some veggies into the action, we’ve found a recipe for you. See our favorite 11 latke recipes below.

The View from Great Island

1. The Perfect Latkes
Make what the View from Great Island calls “the perfect latkes” this December. Perfectly crisp, there’s also a recipe for spiced applesauce!

2. Gold Potato Latkes
Gold is the secret ingredient in this delicious latke from Leah's Thoughts. Yukon gold potato, that is. The buttery taste of the Yukon potato will give these latkes a super-rich flavor.

3. Vegetable and Feta Latkes
With grated zucchini, potato and carrots in this recipe, the latke is healthy, right? Add some crumbled feta cheese and you have a dish that is unique and sure to please even picky eaters. 

Live Eat Learn

4. Brussels Sprout Latkes with Dijon Yogurt Sauce
Live Eat Learn just took your next latke to a new level, not to mention what they've done for brussels sprouts! Sprouts never tasted (or looked) so good! This recipe calls for potatoes, shredded Brussels sprouts and leeks. The sauce is equally delicious with ingredients like Greek yogurt, dijon and maple syrup. 

5. Butternut Squash Latkes 
This recipe is so simple even your kids can make Hanukkah dinner! The key is shredding butternut squash the way you would potato. And then frying them up to perfection. Get the how-to over at Eating Richly.

 

Family Friends Food

6. Waffle Iron Sweet Potato Latkes
Talk about a new twist to an old favorite. These latkes from Family Friends Food are made with sweet potatoes. And instead of frying them in a pan with oil, the latkes are scooped into a waffle maker. What you get is a tasty latke that looks like a breakfast favorite. 

7. Mashed Potato Latkes
Who says the traditional latke should have shredded potato? Not Two Kooks in the Kitchen whose recipe calls for leftover mashed potatoes as the starch. We think it's a great idea, especially if you don't have a lot of time to spend on grating but still want delicious fried latkes to enjoy. 

Savory Tooth

8. Keto Cauliflower Fritters
A low-carb version of the classic potato pancake, this fritter recipe is cheesy-good and the fact that you can use store-bought cauliflower rice means your prep time will be cut in half. Get the recipe from Savory Tooth.

9. Kimchi Latkes
Ready to give your traditional latke a spicy Asian twist? Girl in the Little Red Kitchen combines Russet potatoes with a heaping portion of diced kimchi for an Asian twist. A side of sour cream and Sriracha sauce makes for a perfect side to the latke. 

What Should I Make For

10. Mini Potato Latkes
How cute are these little latkes? Perfect for tiny hands, this recipe from What Should I Make For will be a winner with the kids. The adults will appreciate the accompanying apple creme fraiche. 

11. Adam and Maxine's Famous Latkes
According to Epicurious, you can't go wrong with this iconic recipe. Get it here.

—Leah R. Singer with Gabby Cullen

 

There’s no better excuse than the hustle and bustle of the holiday season to treat yourself and the delightful return of Frozen Peppermint Hot Chocolate Ice Cream from Breyers is just the thing.

The limited edition holiday flavor is back in stores and will have you ready to deck the halls and kick off the season of sweets and treats. Frozen Peppermint Hot Chocolate features dark chocolate and peppermint ice cream mixed with chocolate chips.

photo: Courtesy of Breyers

Made with cocoa and peppermint, you won’t want to miss this limited edition flavor that’s been spotted at Kroger and Walmart already.

—Shahrzad Warkentin

 

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Nothing sounds better in the summer than a cold scoop (or two, or three) of ice cream! With National Ice Cream Day coming up on July 18, Instacart decided to research the most popular flavors in the nation. Although vanilla is a perennial favorite, Americans had quite the range of flavor preferences!

Using purchase data, Instacart determined a top flavor for each state. The results? Moose Tracks, which features fudge, peanut butter cups and vanilla ice cream, took home the most popular flavor, coming out on top in 12 states. In a tight race for second place, Rocky Road, Green Tea, Coffee and Birthday Cake finished in a four-way tie.

The four corners of the country all had their distinctive loyalties. In the Pacific Northwest, Green Tea reigned supreme. In the Southwest, Rocky Road was the overwhelming favorite. In the Northeast, Coffee dominated and in the Southeast, Rum Raisin was the winner.

The Midwest overwhelmingly preferred Moose Tracks and a few states had unique favorites. Delaware preferred Cherry, Pennsylvania screamed for Mint Chip and New Mexico bought pints on pints of Chocolate Chocolate Chip.

No matter what flavor you prefer, you’re in good company. The average American consumes more than 22 pounds of ice cream and frozen desserts each year and July 18 is the perfect excuse for a chilly treat! If you want to try your hand making it at home to celebrate the upcoming holiday, we’re here to help.

—Sarah Shebek

Featured image courtesy of Ross Sokolovski/Unsplash

 

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Magic is coming to your ice cream bowl! Smucker’s recently announced the grand debut of a new magic shell flavor—Unicorn.

The popularity of unicorn-everything endures. After scooping up ice cream, cookies, and candy in fanciful sparkling rainbow hues, now you can top your kiddo’s (or your) sundae in a glistening blend of pink, blue, and purple.

photo: Courtesy of PRNewsfoto/The J.M. Smucker Co

Smucker’s Unicorn Magic Shell features a super-sweet white cupcake flavor that, like other Magic Shell varieties, freezes on top of your ice cream in mere seconds. Ali Brown, Director, Smucker’s Brand Strategy, said in a press release, “We’re excited to sprinkle some fun for the whole family and their ice cream sundaes with our enchanting, unicorn shell ice cream topping that is sure to delight those of all ages.”

Brown went on to add, “New Smucker′s Unicorn Magic Shell topping brings a little magic to birthdays, Friday nights or any excuse to have ice cream.” You can create your own dessert-style magic right now. Pick up Smucker’s Unicorn Magic Shell from retailers nationwide or on Amazon.

—Erica Loop

 

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Dictionary Day is the perfect excuse to dust off your Webster’s (you still have those, right?) and learn a few things. We’ve got five easy-to-medium dictionary-based games that can be easily adapted for little literati of all ages. Read on to get the word.

Fictionary

Element5 Digital via Unsplash

Choose six to ten words your kid may not know. For each word, write out four possible definitions and have them vote on which one they think is the real definition. For little ones, keep it simple with one or two-word definitions and don't forget to add in at least one very silly one! For older kids, choose more difficult words and throw in a couple of “realistic” sounding definitions.

Dictionary for Beginners

Aaron Burden via Unsplash

Put that ABC song to the test with a simple word search. Teach dictionary use with starter words, like CAT, BALL or BUG. Give them one letter at a time to help them locate the word. Example: CAT. Have them look up the C, then the A, finally the T until they find it. They'll see the alphabet within the alphabet on every page. 

Pictionary: 4 Ways

marimari1101 via Pixabay

Pictionary, light. Flip through the pages of a dictionary, and have your littles place their finger on a word at random. Work together or on your own to draw the word you’ve landed on (let's hope you get castle and not existentialism.).

Pictionary, advanced. You’ll need at least four players for this one. Using a dictionary, one member of the team chooses a word at random (see flip method above). Their next task is to draw the word they picked, hoping their team member guesses it (Not unlike the board game by the same name.). Teams take turns, and each member alternates drawing. You can up the ante by adding a time limit to the drawing.

Variation: If the drawing team’s mate doesn’t guess, the opposing team gets one guess at it.

Variation 2: You'll need five people. Have one person be the random word generator. They can either write or show the word to the player whose drawing. This role is best played by mom or dad.

Fake It Up

iStock

Have the kiddos make a word up and then explain or write the definition out to you. Example: decision-ing. What a four-year-old says when he is trying to decide between two equally fun ideas (ice cream vs. cake, bath vs. shower, etc.).

—Amber Guetebier

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dictionary games