For a family adventure that you won’t soon forget, head to Istanbul, Turkey—the only city that straddles both Europe and Asia. Welcoming locals, mouth-watering meze and the soothing call to prayer heard throughout the day will give you and the kids a glimpse into a culture unlike any other. With a currency exchange in our favor and free hotel rooms when you take advantage of Turkish Airlines’ stopover service, you have the makings of your next epic family destination. Read on for all you can expect in Istanbul!
Explore
One of the best reasons to visit Istanbul is to expose your children to cultures outside of our own. As you walk through the streets of Istanbul, you will hear the call to prayer—the bellowing voices of the muezzin will be heard from speakers atop the minarets around the city five times a day. Plan a visit to the most famous mosque in Istanbul, the Sultanahmet Camii or “Blue Mosque.” This magnificent structure was built in the 1600s and is still used as a place of worship today.
Visitors are welcome to visit during non-prayer times and tour the structure. You can see the 21,043 blue tiles that line the walls for which the mosque got its common name. Women must cover their heads with a head scarf (available to borrow for free at the entrance) and all guests must wear appropriate clothing and remove their shoes upon entering.
Another religious tradition unique to this area of the world is the Mevlevi Sema Ceremony, better known as the Whirling Dervishes. You can witness this dance and musical ceremony at Hodjapasha and other theaters throughout the city (note: children under six are not allowed due the solemness of the religious ceremony).
Visitors to the Hagia Sophia Museum in Istanbul will be surprised to see the juxtaposition of Christianity and Muslim history with Byzantine mosaics and Ottoman calligraphy on the walls. Built in the 6th century as the Hagia Sophia or Church of the Holy Spirit, it was converted to a mosque in the 15th century after the Ottoman conquest of Istanbul. It became a museum in 1935 and welcomes thousands of visitors each year.
Just a short walk from the Blue Mosque and the Hagia Sophia is Topkapi Palace, a residence for the Ottoman sultans beginning in the 1400s. Kids will especially enjoy visiting the palace museum and touring the living quarters of the sultans’ families. Here you can view the arms and armor that was used during this time period and see how the palace kitchens functioned (think massive cauldrons to serve hundreds of people).
A visit to Istanbul is not complete without a Bosphorus tour. This body of water separates the Asian side of Istanbul from the European side and connects the Black Sea to the Mediterranean Sea. Opt for a night cruise to view the castles, bridges and mosques of the city all lit up.
photo: Miniaturk
Want a view of the city like no other? Bring the kids to Miniaturk, a museum with 1/25 replicas of many of the famous landmarks in Istanbul and other parts of Turkey. Kids will love feeling like giants and it will make for some great photo opps!
Shopping
The Grand Bazaar is one of the largest covered bazaars in the world selling every sort of evil eye pendant and keychain you could imagine. Head to the leather section to purchase a jacket or leather belt and then admire the gorgeously-colored mosaic chandeliers and lamps. You can purchase Turkish tea supplies and pottery to bring home with you. Costumes and magic lamp trinkets are popular with the younger visitors.
The nearby Spice Market is a feast for the senses with bins of colorful spices, olives, cheese and sweets on every aisle. Purchase authentic Turkisk coffee and tea to bring a sip of Istanbul home with you.
Food in Istanbul
You will not go hungry on a trip to Istanbul, that’s for sure. Every corner seems to be dotted with a food cart selling grilled corn on the cob and roasted chestnuts. Find a stand that sells Turkish ice cream and you will be in for a sweet treat as well as a hilarious performance. A cup of fresh-squeezed pomegranate juice will be just the afternoon pick-me-up that you need to tackle another museum. Kids will enjoy the sesame-crusted simit, a bread similar to a crunchy bagel.
Restaurant meals typically start with a generous portion of meze—cold offerings including hummus, stuffed grape leaves, roasted eggplant and flat bread. Entrees are typically roasted meats with lamb and beef dominating the options.
Perhaps the most recognizable Turkish food that would appeal to kids is pide. This flatbread is filled with meat, cheese or vegetables and resembles an oval-shaped pizza. Another kid favorite is kofte—a flattened, grilled meatball that is perfect with rice.
If you find an establishment that offers manti, do not pass it up. Most closely related to a ravioli, this dumpling is typically topped with cold plain yogurt and a tomato sauce.
As spice level can often be an issue for visitors to Istanbul, request a glass of Ayran to go with your meal. This Turkish yogurt drink tastes like a slightly-salty plain yogurt and soothes the stomach after a big meal.
Desserts are serious business in Istanbul with baklava and Turkish delight being offered on every street corner. Hazer Baba is a well-known purveyor of Turkish delights at the Spice Market as their products are made with honey instead of sugar. Pistachio and pomegranate are popular flavors. You can get your Turkish delight coated in coconut, chocolate or dried rose flowers among many other options.
Turkish coffee and tea are an element of every meal. Tea is served from an ornate two-tiered kettle where the brewed tea is added to the glass first, followed by water to dilute the tea to your preferred strength. Turkish coffee most resembles espresso in its strength. It is tradition to read the coffee grounds from inside your cup after you finish to see your fortune!
photo: Turkish Airlines
Traveling to Istanbul
Turkish Airlines offers direct flights to Istanbul from nine U.S. gateways (SFO, LAX, JFK, Houston, Atlanta, Washington, Boston and Miami) making your trip there that much easier. Even the youngest flyers are given special treatment on Turkish Airlines from diaper kits for infants (contains wipes, changing mat, bibs, diaper cream and even breast pads for nursing mamas). Baby food can be requested when booking your flight. Infant seat belts and bassinets are also available.
Older kids will get a kick out of the wooden in-flight toys that are offered by Turkish Arilines. These eco-friendly playthings are made for children ages 3 through 12 and address environmental issues such as endangered species to teach kids about the world around them through play. There are also tons of kids’ movies and games available in the in-flight entertainment system (bonus: kids can request smaller-sized headphones if needed).
Everyone who flies Turkish Airlines will be impressed by the in-flight food service prepared by (literal) flying chefs! Taste the flavors of Turkey and enjoy a Turkish tea and baklava to end your meal.
Free Hotel Nights with Turkish Airlines’ Stopover Service
With Turkish Airlines servicing the most countries of any airline, it’s possible that you’ll have the opportunity to stopover in Istanbul on your way to another destination. Take advantage of the expanded Turkish Airlines’ stopover service and explore the city before you continue on with your journey.
The stopover service will provide one free night in a four-star hotel for economy passengers and two free nights in a five-star hotel for business class passengers when you stop in Istanbul on your way to Africa, Eastern Europe, Balkans, Southern Europe, Pakistan, India, Bangladesh, Russia, Iran or Kazakhstan. Use your time to see the cultural sites, cruise on the Bosphorus and shop in the Grand Bazaar. You can find the full details on this program here.
Note: This trip was paid for by Turkish Airlines but all opinions belong to the writer.
Looking for science experiments for kids? Thanks to common household ingredients, some ingenuity, and our guide, these at-home science experiments for kids make any day exciting. To help you prepare, we’ve rated each experiment from one to five sponges so you know the messiness factor ahead of time. If you’re looking for seasonal projects, check out these water-themed science experiments. Or how about a few science projects for kids that are perfect for the backyard?
TIP: Did you know there are a ton of awesome science kits and subscription boxes that will further develop your child’s love of science? KiwiCrate is one of our favorite ed-tech companies, as they offer seriously fun & enriching science & art projects, for kids 0 months up to 13+.
When these nails and copper wires collide, heat is generated (psst ... heat is a result of expended energy, so you can explain to your little runner why he feels warmer after a race around the house). But with some potato magic, the properties of the nail and copper stay separated, allowing the heat to become the electric energy needed to power up your devices. Build your own potato battery with this tutorial from Wiki How .
Messiness factor: One sponge
Make a Baking Soda & Vinegar "Steam" Powered Boat
Melissa Heckscher
A lesson in: Chemical reactions
Sure, anyone can do the old baking soda and vinegar volcano, but what about creating a boat that is propelled by this classic chemical reaction? Keep your little Einsteins busy this afternoon with this cool science project for kids that doesn't require a lot of prep.
Can you make water float? We bet you can. No, you don’t need to be a wizard or a witch. You don’t need to cast a spell. There’s nothing magic about it at all, in fact. You can make water float using science. The “trick” to this experiment is air pressure. Get everything you need and the how-to, right here, thanks to Mike Adamick and his book, Dad's Book of Awesome Science Experiments.
This germ-growing science project for kids will help them understand how even the cleanest-looking surfaces (and hands) can be filled with germs, is one of the easiest science experiments for kids we've found. Get the fun and yucky instructions at Kids Activity Blog.
This futuristic science experiment will leave your kids wanting to know more about chemistry. Quench her thirst for knowledge when you create an edible membrane around teaspoons of water to make these handy water “bottles.” The tutorial is in video form over at Inhabitat. Trust us, it’s as cool as it looks!
This grow-your-own experiment lets you grow crystals inside an eggshell. Be sure to get alum powder that contains potassium, or else you won’t get any crystal growth. Adding drops of food dye to the growing solution yields some super cool crystals. A perfectly formed geode takes about 12-15 hours to grow, making this a great weekend project. Get the tutorial for this science experiment for kids at Art and Soul.
You’ve probably seen the label that says “fortified with iron” on your cereal box, but how much iron is actually in your cereal? Is there enough to cause a magnetic reaction? This super easy experiment doesn’t require too many fancy ingredients (cereal + magnet) which means you and the kiddos can try it right away. The results may surprise you! Get the how-to at Rookie Parenting and get started!
Messiness Factor: Two sponges.
Learn About Shooting Stars
Kate Loweth
A lesson in: Astronomy
With this fun video from They Might Be Giants, kids can learn that shooting stars are not stars, they're meteorites. Then, take it out back for a fun backyard stargazing session. We love this science experiment you can do at home!
Using only marshmallows and dry spaghetti noodles, kids can experiment with structure, stability, and weight distribution. Get the instructions from Kesler Science by clicking here.
Messiness factor: 1 sponge
Paper Airplane Science
Melissa Heckscher
A lesson in: Aerodynamics
By making various paper airplanes, your scientists can test the drag of each plane, which will have an effect on how far they fly. Get more info on this science project for kids here.
Messiness factor: 1 sponge
Walk on Eggs
Shelley Massey
A lesson in: Weight distribution
How can you walk on eggs without breaking them? Steve Spengler shows us how and teaches an awesome lesson on how an egg’s unique shape gives it tremendous strength, despite its seeming fragility. Check out this easy science experiment for kids to get started.
Messiness factor: 1-3 sponges, depending on the state of the eggs in the end!
Fill a shallow dish with milk, drop food coloring, and make sure the drops don't touch. Then, dip a cotton swab in dish soap and place it in the middle of the dish. The colors will begin to swirl and seem as though they are moving on their own! Explain to your kids that the soap reduces surface tension and makes the fat molecules in the milk move. Click here for more science experiments that use food coloring.
Messiness Factor: 2 sponges
Professor Egghead's Lesson about Light
A Lesson in: Light
Learn all about the sun and what it gives humans (think energy and warmth!) You'll also do an experiment to learn about different kinds of light, even ultraviolet rays. Get the video from Professor Egghead here.
Messiness factor: 1 sponge
Cup Amplifier
Storey Publishing
A lesson in: Sound
Slide a mobile phone into this low-tech amplifier and the result will be music to your ears. The audio is deeper, richer, and louder, thanks to the science of sound waves and the natural amplification created by the cone-shaped cups. If the two cups look a bit like the attentive ears of a cat or fox, that’s no coincidence. Animal ears use the same science, but in reverse: they help creatures hear by gathering sound waves and directing them into the ear. For engineers, that’s a design worth copying.
Customize your amplifier to fit any size phone!
Tabs cut all around the hold make it easy to glue the cardboard tube in place.
Cut a slot with a flap to support your phone.
What’s Going On The Cup Amplifier focuses and projects sound waves, in the same way that a cheerleader’s megaphone (or even just your cupped hands) amplifies your voice. Once sound waves are created, they want to spread out in all directions. The amplifier directs them from your phone’s speakers into the cardboard cups, where, instead of scattering, they are gathered and channeled in one direction—out the openings.
A great way to get rid of extra candy, this easy science experiment for kids uses Skittles and whatever liquids you want to use. The idea is, the candy is made of ingredients that dissolve, so kids get a chance to guess which liquid will make the Skittles dissolve the fastest. Get more info over at Little Bins for Little Hands.
An easy science experiment to do at home is one that helps kids find out what affects the surface tension of water! You'll need basic materials like a penny and a water dropper, and be sure to make a hypothesis before you start. You might be surprised! Get the tutorial from Rookie Parenting.
This simple experiment requires a trip to the hardware store, but putting it all together is a cinch. Once you've completed the system, have your kids pick up different-sized rocks and make a note about how difficult it is. Then, try with the pulley. Is it easier or is it harder? To find out how to make your pulley, and for other questions to ask your kids, head over to Little Bins for Little Hands.
Messiness Factor: One sponge
Make a Volcano Explode
iStock
A Lesson in: Chemical reactions
There's a reason why this science experiment is so popular. When the solid baking soda (sodium bicarbonate—a base) mixes with the liquid vinegar (acetic acid—a weak acid), it creates a gas—carbon dioxide! Besides the chemical reaction, kids enjoy making the actual volcano, whether it's out of clay, mud, or foam sheets. Get a great step-by-step tutorial from The Dad’s Book of Awesome Science Experimentsby clicking here.
Messiness Factor: Four sponges
Bake Hygroscopic Cookies
Allison Sutcliffe
A Lesson in: Hygroscopy.
This simple science experiment is best when you check in on it the next morning. Bake up a batch of cookies, then place them in an airtight container with a piece of fresh bread. Watch as the cookies stay straight-from-the-oven soft thanks to the moisture of the bread (The sugar in the cookies is hygroscopic, which means it absorbs water molecules out of the bread). The best part? Getting to eat the cookies!
Messiness Factor: Two sponges.
The Juice-Tasting Challenge
iStock
A lesson in: Taste buds and olfactory senses.
Tummy’s rumbling–it’s time to eat! Did you know that you “eat” with your nose and eyes as well as your mouth? It’s true. Put your family’s sense of smell and sight to the test with this juice-guessing game.
How to: 1. Stack a piece of tape on the bottom of each glass and number them one to four, making sure your partner can’t see the numbers. Pour one type of juice into each glass.
2. Send your partner out of the room. Drip a different food coloring into each juice and stir so your partner can’t recognize the juice by its color alone. Record the number, juice type, and color in each glass on a piece of paper.
3. Call your partner back. Tell her to hold her nose, sip from each glass, and guess the juice If she’s like most people, she’ll be kind of confused–her eyes and tongue give her two conflicting flavor messages.
4. Ask her to unplug her nose, close her eyes, and sniff the juice before drinking it. Her guesses should be on target now. All hail the mighty schnoz!
Dyes are fiber reactive, so there's a chemical reaction between the dye and the fabric. You can do this experiment with everything from paper to t-shirts. We've got a great list of tie-dye projects here.
Unravel the mysteries of time. Or at least figure out the basics by setting up a sundial outside. Take time each hour to check the sun’s positioning and make note of it so your sidekick can see the bigger picture.
Dry ice is already cool enough on its own, but it takes science to turn them into bubbles. When you add water, it changes the temperature of the dry ice, causing the ice to go from solid to gas. That’s where the fog and bubbles come from! Head to Simply Modern Mom to get the full tutorial. But be careful: Dry ice can cause serious skin burns, so make sure your kids are well-supervised and know not to touch the ice.
Messiness factor: Three sponges.
Invisible Licorice
From Candy Experiments 2 by Loralee Leavitt/Andrews McMeel Publishing, LLC.
A lesson in: Light and perspective.
Did the candy melt or disappear? Your sweetums might think it’s magic, but it’s really all about how oil redirects light, causing half the candy to disappear! Click here for the instructions on how to recreate this mind-warping experiment.
Your whistler has the basics of air pressure down just by using their mouth to blow. And now you can amaze them with this science experiment for kids. There is a little fire play involved (dropping a lit paper into the bottle), but that’s what causes the unbalanced air pressure, which pushes the egg into the bottle. Want to test it out? Head over to Steve Spangler Science for the tutorial.
If your snacker has noticed how their apples have turned brown after being left out for too long, then they’ve seen oxidization in action (loss of electrons and nutrients when in contact with oxygen). Fortunately, lemon juice only oxidizes when in contact with heat. This method works with baking soda and milk too. Click here to find out how to write secret messages with your little spy.
Messiness factor: One sponge.
Kid-Safe Lava Lamps
iStock
A lesson in: Density and intermolecular polarity.
These sound like big words for our little ones, but there’s an easier way to break it down. Water and oil won’t mix because they’re not the same “weight” or substance (just like clay and LEGOs won’t become one). Now add a drop of food coloring (which is heavier than oil) and a fizzy tablet and watch the air bubbles take coloring with them to the top. Head on over to S. L. Smith’s blog to see how it’s done.
Be careful: The water only has the power to make the sugar crystals “invisible” when it’s piping hot. After the water cools down and evaporates, the sugar turns back into a solid. And with a little help of your sugar-soaked string, the crystals will find a home to grow upon and become rock candy. Learn how to make your smart sweets with these instructions from the Exploratorium.
Harness the power of the sun to make your favorite campfire treat! With just a few common household items you can create an eco-friendly oven just for melting marshmallows and chocolate, plus you can teach kids about the power of the sun. Click here to learn how.
Messiness Factor: Two sponges.
Homemade Slime
Melissa Heckscher
A lesson in: Polymers.
Is it a liquid or solid? The answer is both! This DIY slime—made from glue, borax, and water—is also known as a polymer (molecules that can stick close together to be a solid or spread apart and take liquid form). And it’s all thanks to borax, which acts as a binder to prevent the glue from going completely liquid. Check out Explorable’s recipe for mixing the ingredients. Prolong the life of your goo by keeping it in an airtight container in the fridge. And, if you need help with cleanup, check out our guide for how to get slime out of clothes, couches, and hair.
Plain old fresh-squeezed lemonade is so last year. Boost the fun quotient and learn a simple science concept simultaneously when you recreate this edible Fizzy Lemonade drink from Learn With Play at Home. It’s super easy to mix and little sippers report it’s pretty tickly too. A great alternative to the baking soda-vinegar volcano, it shows kids what happens when an acid and base are mixed together.
Messiness factor: One sponge.
Whirlpool in a Bottle
iStock
A lesson in: physics, weather science.
This easy little experiment doesn't take much: just two empty and clear 2-liter bottles, a metal washer, water and duct tape. Food coloring is optional. Fill one bottle with about two-thirds water. Place the washer on the bottle and line up the empty bottle on top of the water-filled one. Wrap the duct tape around the middle securing the two bottles together. Then, turn the bottles upside down. Does the water go straight down or do you see a mini whirlpool (Swirl the top or bottom a bit for a better effect.)? The spinning water is called a vortex, and all tornadoes, hurricanes and typhoons are examples of air vortexes. Since you’re using water, this is an example of a whirlpool. As the water spins faster, it pushes to the outside of the bottle creating a hole in the middle. The air from the bottom of the bottle comes up the middle and the water from the top flows back down through the hole.
You’ve probably tried a salt crystal growing kit at some point in your life (5th grade Science Fair perhaps?) but Schooling a Monkey takes the idea to a new level with these Salt Crystal Feathers. This awe-inspiring project is deceptively simple and inexpensive to achieve, and requires just a wee bit of patience to see the results—kids will love checking in on the progress.
A lesson in: Chemistry, pressure, and release of pressure
This experiment is one you'll definitely want to do outside. Step it up with this Mentos + soda experiment: head to Steve Spangler for all the need-to-know details on this engaging experiment.
Messiness factor: Three (very epic) sponges
Melting Rates
Shelly Massey
A lesson in: Solar science and absorption
Different colors have different heat-absorbing capacities. Black has the greatest heat-absorbing capacity, which results in ice melting quicker than white, which reflects the most light. Learn how to observe and report on which colors affect ice’s melting rates here on Curiodyssey. Get more sidewalk science ideas here.
A lesson in: Chemistry and the exothermic process <<<impress your kids!
If you’ve ever wondered how elephants keep their tusks clean, we’ve got the answer. They use elephant toothpaste! Find out how to mix your own and figure out the science behind this dynamic exothermic (heat-releasing) reaction from Fun at Home With Kids. Our favorite part? That you get to throw in some sensory playtime after the action’s over.
Messiness factor: Three sponges. Maybe four.
Bending Water with a Comb
Amber Guetebier
A lesson in: Electrical currents and static electricity
This static electricity science experiment couldn't be any easier. In fact, other than a balloon or going down the slide, it might be the easiest way to teach kids about electrical currents. And, you can impress them with your wizarding skills once before you reveal the science behind it. Click here to get the step-by-step.
Insert a little plant science into the mix by re-growing food from scraps. Think onions, potatoes, and lettuce for this one (psst… green onions are a super easy, fast option). Get the low down on all that recycled goodness at Mrs. Happy Homemaker. Since plants need water and sunlight to grow, exposing scrap roots to that winning combo helps them recharge.
It happens to the Statue of Liberty and it happens to the change in your pocket! Create your own home lab with just a few household ingredients (this experiment will literally cost you just pennies). It’s also a chemical reaction with very non-toxic ingredients, so it’s safe and fascinating even for young kids. Click over to Buggy and Buddy to get the simple how-to.
Like the popular baking soda and vinegar experiments, this film canister rocket literally takes it to the next level by using that creation of gas and energy to jet off into the sky. If your explorer has seen videos of mountain tops getting blown off during a volcanic eruption, this science project is pretty much any space lover’s version. Get the building instructions over at The Science Kiddo.
Can you and the kiddos solve the mysterious case of the disappearing eggshell? Following the simple how-to at Go Science Kids, you’ll learn the step-by-step and talking points about the process along the way. Warning! Although it’s totally non-toxic, toddler-aged kids will be tempted to squeeze the egg at the end so make sure it’s a supervised experiment. Visit Go Science Kids to get cracking!
Children living in snow-covered cities might witness their neighbors salting the driveway. Well, while that is definitely not for fun, this experiment is. Salt lowers the freezing point of ice so it melts, but it won’t be able to freeze unless it’s cold enough. See how The Science Kiddo made a clever game with this knowledge.
Let your imagineers pretend shaving cream is a cloud that holds colorful raindrops. As they squeeze more and more food coloring, their “cloud” will soon release the excess below—just like how real clouds get too heavy and let the rain loose on a gloomy day. Learn how to re-create this weather experiment here.
Messiness factor: One sponge.
Dyed Plants
Mike Adamick for Dad’s Book of Awesome Science Experiments
A lesson in: Capillary action.
Find out how plants “drink” water with some food coloring. Use carnations, roses, or stalks of celery submerged in the colored water and watch the liquid slowly seep through the plant’s “veins” and towards the leaves. Keep an eye out -- you could have a very colorful bouquet just after the first day. Get the rundown by Dad’s Book of Awesome Science Experiments over here.
Messiness factor: One sponge.
Dancing Oobleck
iStock
A lesson in: Sound waves.
The word “oobleck” comes from a Dr. Seuss story where a young boy must rescue his kingdom from a sticky substance. But the neat part of this experiment is how oobleck reacts to vibrations. Put the oobleck over a subwoofer (on top of a cookie sheet!) and watch it dance to different frequencies. Your dancer will see how sound isn’t just about volume! Check out more of this awesome experiment from Tammy of Housing a Forest.
A lesson in: Static electricity. (Or weather science.)
Lightning is essentially electrons moving uber fast between the sky and the earth—and with a few simple materials, you can use homemade static electricity (the reason behind your hair sticking up when you rub a balloon or go through a tunnel slide super fast) for DIY lightning. Figure out how to recreate a family-friendly version of this spark by visiting the activity blog Learn Play Imagine.
Messiness factor: One sponge.
Make a Bug Vacuum
Excerpted from Mason Jar Science (c) by Jonathan Adolph, photography (c) by Carl Tremblay, used with permission from Storey Publishing.
A Lesson in: Entomology
Scientists capture bugs for study using a mouth-powered vacuum, called an aspirator or a pooter. Kids can make their own version from a mason jar, then use it to gather ants (or other small insects) and observe them in action.
How to: 1. Open the milk carton along the seams and flatten it out. Use the inner lid of the mason jar as a template to trace a circle on the carton. Cut out the circle and punch two holes in the center about an inch apart.
2. Carefully slide the short ends of the bendy straws into the holes. Tape a piece of gauze pad around the end of one straw to prevent any bugs from getting sucked up.
3 Set the lid on the jar and fasten it in place with the ring.
4. To use your pooter, place the tip of the straw without the gauze near a bug. Put your mouth on the straw with the gauze, and gently suck in. The bug should travel up the straw and land unharmed at the bottom of the jar.
Take It Further Capture some ants in your bug vacuum, then use a magnifying glass to observe these remarkable insects up close. Open the jar and feed them a few drops of sugary water or corn syrup, or try giving them some birdseed. Ants live in colonies headed by a queen ant, and they can’t last long on their own. When you are done observing them, release your ants where you found them. (Note: Some ants bite, so be careful handling them.)
Tell Me More Ants were the Earth’s first farmers. For millions of years, certain species have been creating underground gardens where they grow their favorite fungus for food. They tend to their crops, bringing them water and even weeding out other fungi they don’t want.
Teach kids the importance of smell with this activity that asks them to use only their noses to identify objects. Can they sniff out the fish oil over the garlic cloves? The lemon juice over the orange oil? Homeschooling blogger Ana has the instructions at Babble Dabble Do.
Teaching children chemistry can become a fun, at-home activity as a weekend afternoon project or as part of their remote learning curriculum. One of the best experiments you can do is the mixing activity. With this exercise, children will learn the difference between soluble and insoluble substances. Do not worry! You can do it with ingredients you already have in your kitchen!
Ingredients
Water
Oil (cooking oil, vegetable oil, olive oil, etc.)
Food Coloring
Table Salt
Sand
Transparent containers with a lid or transparent cups with a spoon to mix
Experiment
Before you begin the activity, ask the children what each ingredient is—whether it is a solid, liquid, or gas—and what they think will happen when you begin mixing them. This guarantees a hands-on experiment that will allow the children to feel they are in control.
Mix the water and the sand. Children will notice there is a separation between both ingredients and that layers have formed, so it is an insoluble reaction.
Mix the water and the food coloring. Children will see them combine—the water turning into that color—and know it is a soluble reaction.
Mix the water and the table salt. The salt will disappear in the water, making it another soluble reaction.
Mix the water and the oil. This time, a clear layer will be formed, showing another insoluble reaction.
After these mixing activities, you can further this experiment by letting the children find other ingredients to mix with water and have them determine if that substance is soluble or insoluble. The main goal is to show them different reactions and layers.
For a clear example of this experiment, check out this video.
Messiness factor: 2 sponges
Experiment courtesy of Dr. Stephanie Ryan. See more fun about science over at letslearnaboutscience.com
Visiting these u-pick apple farms are the perfect way to welcoming in the fall season
Apple picking season has officially arrived so get ready to have bushels of fun at these beautiful apple picking farms around the San Diego area. Lucky for us, Julian, a.k.a. the West Coast hub of apple picking, is just a short drive away. From orchards with oodles of variety to ones with certified organic crops, we’ve put together a list of places that are ripe for a festive fall day out with the fam. Apple season generally runs from early September to mid-October, so check out all the juicy detailson where and when to go and if you need a reservation.
Good to Know: Be sure to check the orchard’s websites and social media before heading out since they provide the latest updates during the apple-picking season and supply availability.
Julian Farm & Orchard This 25-acre sustainable, working farm offers fun for all ages year-round, but apple picking season is one of our favorite times to visit. Julian Farm and Orchard features sprawling apple orchards and a festive u-pick experience only available by booking a reservation for one of their staff-led apple tours. Before or after the tour, your brood can enjoy the farm’s rock-climbing wall, animal sanctuary, tractor hayrides, axe throwing, craft area, and apple cider press.
Insider’s Tip:If your kiddos have any energy left after all that apple picking, stop by the Julian Mining Company just across the road for even more fun activities like mining for gems and panning for gold. You can also pick apples here as well! Picking Dates: This season will be in Sept. so be sure to sign up on their website to be notified as soon as apple tour reservations go live.
Peacefield Orchard Pick from where the rumored oldest apple tree is in Julian: the “Granny Gravenstein.” You’ll find more than 200 other trees on 2.5 acres bearing dazzling Red, Golden Delicious, Granny Smith, Jonathan and Jonagold apples so you’re bound to find some super sweet pickings to take home.
Picking Dates: Open to the public, Sat. – Sun., 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. during Sept. Orchard tours and u-pick appointments are also available.
Volcan Valley Apple Farm With 10 gorgeous acres to roam, Volcan Valley Apple Farm is Julian’s largest orchard. Every fall, this magical spot comes alive with over 8,000 trellis-grown apple trees filled with varieties of red and green apples including Empire, Jonathan, and Red Delicious. Purchase a bag that holds 6 – 7 lbs. of apples, then head into the fields to fill it up.
Insider’s Tip:Cashless payment only. Plan to visit in early Sept. rather than late fall since the season only last about 4-6 weeks while they still have apples. Picking Dates:The Gravenstein Apple Festival is coming in Aug., but picking season is Sept. – early Oct. with exact dates TBD. Orchard hours are Fri., Sat. and Sun., 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. No reservations necessary.
Ranchita del Reo Your family will get more than just a u-pick bag of apples from this fifth-generation family farm in Julian. You’ll get an extra special experience when you book your private 30-minute slot to have the entire orchard to yourselves. Choose from three different reservation packages that include not only a bag to hold apples but also come with the bonus of homemade goodies like homemade jams to enjoy with cheese and crackers in the orchard while you relax or to take home for later.
Picking Dates: Their season usually runs Sept. – Nov., Fri. – Mon., 1 p.m. – 4 p.m. – exact dates TBD. Picking is via reservation only.
Ranchita Del Reo
1711 Highway 78
Julian Online:visitjulian.com
Crosscut Farm and Orchard This is a group apple-picking site that allows a minimum of 10 people per group and a maximum of 50. Make your reservations early at this family-friendly mom-and-pop operation because they’re only open for one week of apple picking. The orchard has about 700 trees to choose from including Golden Delicious, Jonathan, and Liberty apples. And while they are not certified organic, they do use “organic practices” and don’t spray their trees. An introduction to apple farming, an apple cider pressing demonstration, and parking are also included in the fee.
Apples and Art Orchards This orchard is only for large groups who are expecting to pick 20 bags of apples or more per reservation – perfect for a homeschooling group, scouts, sports teams, family gatherings, or playgroups. This all-natural, pesticide-free, non-GMO orchard is featuring many apple varieties this year, including McIntosh, Red and Golden Delicious, Williams Pride, Chehalis, Liberty, Arkansas Black, Enterprise, Hatsuke, and some heirlooms. Since they ripen at different times, not all varieties will be available during your visit. In addition to apple picking, groups receive a tour of the orchard, as well as a free apple cider-making lesson and tasting experience.
Picking Dates: Daily starting Sept. 8 from 1 p.m. – 3 p.m. by email reservation only.
1. Go early in the season and check ahead to confirm that apples are still available for picking:Once the apples are gone, that’s it until the next year. Most orchards report updates on their socials or website.
2. Bring the right money:Some orchards only accept cash, while some only take cards. Do your research and maybe even bring both.
3. Prepare to spend more money than you would on grocery store apples:The apple-picking experience costs more than your usual trip to the produce section, but is worth the fun once a year!
4. Don’t fret about not being able to pick tons of apples: Most orchards have pre-bagged apples available for purchase if your little farmers grow weary of picking early on.
5. Don’t expect cold weather:Just because Julian is in the mountains doesn’t mean you’ll need a jacket. Check the temps before you make the trip and pack water, sun hats, sunscreen, close-toed shoes, and maybe a little bug repellant.
6. Make a day of it and experience Julian: This mining town has so many fun things to do besides apple picking. Julian is best when you allow yourself an entire day to explore.
When it comes to the topic of “must-dos” while pregnant, there is no shortage of suggestions—from well-meaning friends, online articles, and even perfect strangers. Take your prenatals, get plenty of rest, see your doctor regularly…the list goes on. But what you may not hear as often are things you should avoid during pregnancy. We’ve rounded up a list of seven things to skip while expecting.
Certain Foods
Trying to navigate the world of pregnancy cravings while still managing to consume a healthy, well-balanced diet isn’t easy. But consuming only foods safe for your developing baby is one of the most important things you can do while pregnant. As a rule of thumb, it’s not the type of food as much as how it’s made that matters. For example, beef, poultry, and seafood all get the green light, unless undercooked or raw. (Deli meat is a no-go, too.) Other foods to pass on: soft cheese, such as brie and feta; raw eggs; and unpasteurized dairy products.
Certain Skincare Ingredients
It’s a no-brainer to do an immediate check on any supplements you take internally once those two little lines appear, but many women forget to also review the ingredients in the lotions and serums they apply topically. The FDA maintains an extensive list of ingredients to watch out for, which include retinoids (known to cause birth defects), benzoyl peroxide and salicylic acid, and sunscreens that contain oxybenzone or avobenzone (shown to impact a fetus’s developing nervous system). But your best bet is to talk to your healthcare provider. To be sure your products are in the clear, pop them into your purse before your next OB visit for review.
Kitty Litter
If a cat is part of your family, it’s likely that cleaning out the litter box ranks high on the worst chores list, alongside scrubbing toilets and washing dishes. The good news? You have doctor’s orders to avoid scooping the box for your full term. Kitty litter can expose you to toxoplasmosis, a rare parasitic disease, which has been shown to lead to miscarriage or fetus malformations. If you’re a solo feline owner and must take on the task, be sure to wear gloves and wash thoroughly after changing out the box. Also, keep in mind, litter isn’t the only source of toxoplasmosis—consuming insufficiently cooked meat or touching infected gardening soil can also transmit the disease.
Stress
While a certain amount of trepidation is to be expected while you’re expecting, especially if it’s your first pregnancy, limiting outside stressors is important. Chronic and serious stress during pregnancy has been linked to miscarriage, high blood pressure, premature delivery, and even effects on baby’s brain development. Make an effort to reduce stressful life situations and find healthy ways to cope with any stressful situations that inevitably arise.
Specific Beverages
Passing on alcohol during pregnancy is a no-brainer, but there are other sips to skip. Due to potential bacteria, avoid unpasteurized milk and juices (including those that are fresh-squeezed). Because caffeine (think: coffee, black and green tea, and soda) and artificial sweeteners can pass through the placenta to baby, it’s best to proceed with caution and enjoy these drinks sparingly, if at all. Yummy swaps: sparkling water with a splash of pasteurized fruit juice, herbal teas, and decaf coffee.
Saunas and Spas
Easing your achy pregnancy muscles in a spa or sauna might sound like just what the OB ordered, but it’s actually quite the opposite. Elevated body temperature (above 101 degrees) can lead to complications for mama, such as lowered blood pressure, dehydration, and dizziness, as well as increasing the risk of birth defects for baby. A warm bath or a heating pad focused on sore spots is a safer soothing alternative.
Wet Paint
While it can be tempting to roll up your sleeves and paint that baby nursery yourself, it’s best to leave the painting to the professionals or your nearest and dearest. While today’s paints do not contain lead, they can contain harmful chemicals that can be absorbed through your skin or inhaled. If recreational painting is a favorite hobby or profession, be sure to mask up, wear protective clothing, and ensure the space is well-ventilated before allowing your inner artist to emerge.
Capri Sun? Been there, sipped that. Now introduce your kid to Chicago’s fresh-squeezed juice and smoothie scene. (Psst. . . it’s a great way to sneak in veggies!) We hopped around to town to find juice and smoothie bars and cafes that focus on the all-natural stuff and have family-friendly atmospheres to boot. Grab a tall, healthy glass at one of these sunny spots, or take it to go and mosey through a park.
Why it deserves a squeeze: The locally owned spot will be your new favorite place to pop in for a sandwich and cold-pressed juice, and treat the kids to a special smoothie. They also get points for convenience with their online ordering option.
Real Good Juice Co. now has several locations in the city and you can find them in Whole Foods, as well. They offer 10-ounce cold-pressed juices which boast three pounds of organic locally-sourced produce per bottle and come with witty names like Juicille Ball and Punky Juice-Ster. For a snack try a smoothie bowl, a toast or sandwich or the NoYoFroYo.
Locations in Lincoln Park, Old Town, Lakeview, River North & Southport; Online: realgoodstuffco.com
Why it deserves a squeeze: A must-visit for weekend brunch, this Greektown staple has fresh squeezes on the daily, good for sipping on the spot or on the go.
You may know this neighborhood fave for its Greek-inflected breakfast and brunch menu. We’re talking scramblers, omelets, breakfast sandwiches, French toast, pancakes and waffles, plus vegan and gluten-free options (hello, polenta pancakes). But you’d be remiss in missing the juice bar, a pivotal portion of Meli’s menu. Beyond your standard OJ and apple juice (which are both available for traditionalists), Meli ventures into hearty meal-in-a-glass territory with juice blends such as celery-apple-carrot, mango-orange-kiwi-honey and wheatgrass-pineapple-apple-pear-lemon.
301 S. Halsted St., Greektown; Online: melicafe.com
Why it deserves a squeeze: This LA-based franchise has been blending juices and smoothies for twenty years so they know how to create a tasty and healthy treat.
Juice and smoothie lovers have flocked here for years for favorites like the G-Snap with ginger, carrot and orange and the ABC with apple, beet and carrot juices. They also have a good selection of smoothies, smoothie bowls and toasts.
Why it deserves a squeeze: You can get your juice with a side of vegan pizza.
Founded thanks to a Kickstarter campaign and named after owner Alexandra Curatolo’s pet French Bulldog, Belli’s brings healthy, local food to Pilsen. When you walk in, you’re greeted by a colorful menu with concoctions featuring fresh local and organic leafy greens for a daily dose of essential vitamins. For the more adventurous, there is even Kombucha on tap.
Why it deserves a squeeze: famed Chicago Chef, Paul Kahan, developed the menu.
Start your morning with a Mornin’ Buzz smoothie for you (espresso, cacao, peanut butter, macca powder, banana and dates) and cold-pressed juice or smoothie for your little sidekick. If you’re looking for something more substantial to go with your juice or smoothie, Left Coast has a complete menu divided into First Wave (breakfast), Greens, Grains, Wraps, and, of course, Kiddos.
2878 N. Lincoln Ave., Lincoln Park & 151 N. Franklin, Loop; Online: leftcoastfood.com
Oceanside is having a resurgence thanks to new development that’s happened over the past few years. The growth has brought in game-changing beachfront staycation hotels, kid-friendly eateries, markets, art walks, and an influx of cute retail shops. What you expect to find from the North County city, like the pier and the beachside playground, is still there, but it’s the unexpected that will make you eager to plan a special trip to the once isolated military town. Whether you check out the old or the new spots (or mix in a little of both), spending a day or weekend in Oceanside is an adventure. Read on for everything you need to plan your next day (or weekend!) trip.
Hop in the family car and head all the way to the northern shore of San Diego, you can’t miss it! If you don’t want to drive, there are other fun ways to get there. Make it a day trip or heck stay for the weekend when you take the train or the bus. The Oceanside Transit Center is only ½ mile away from the pier; it’s an easy 12-minute walk and you can bring strollers on board. There are bathrooms and lockers at the Oceanside Transit Station too.
Coaster Train: starts at the downtown Santa Fe station and stops along the coast Sprinter Train: starts from Escondido and stops along the way Breeze Bus Transit: catch it anywhere in North County and ride it all the way west
Oceanside Transit Station 235 S Tremont St., Oceanside 760-966-6500 Online: gonctd.com
Playtime has always been a blast walking along the beach and pier, but most people overlook the nearby harbor or storytimes and books from the public library. There’s also a little-known chocolate escape room for kids and an indoor playground or if you’re feeling gutsy go indoor skydiving. Support local and shop at one of the many neighborhood stores. You'll find everything from succulents and shells, to gifts and souvenirs.
Oceanside Harbor Grab some coffee from Nautical Bean and stroll two miles all around the harbor for epic harbor and ocean views with boats coming and going. Grab a bite to eat and watch the ocean at one of the many restaurants: Joe’s Crab Shack, Rockin’ Baja Lobster, Oceanside Broiler, Harbor Fish & Chips just to name a few.
Oceanside Fishing Pier Stroll all 1942 feet along this iconic wooden pier that was built in1888. This is a great spot to fish, watch the surfers or just enjoy the beautiful California coast. Let your kids play at one of the few playgrounds that are actually on the beach! (Ruby’s restaurant at the end of this pier recently closed, but there will be a new restaurant coming in soon.)
Wheel Fun Rentals Rent some wheels for a spin on the boardwalk in a surrey, bikes, (tandem, electric), or four wheel “car” like bike, kid’s bike and even kid’s trailer bike attachments. No reservations needed, helmets, locks and baskets are included.
Oceanside Boat Rentals Rent the electric Duffy boat (psst…it’s shaded!) for a one-hour tour of the Oceanside Harbor. You can also rent kayaks and powerboats for in-harbor touring only.
256 S Harbor Dr., Oceanside 855-690-0794 Online: boats4rent.com
Play Kingdom Kids will play hard at this indoor playground with climbing, sliding, jumping, car tracks and more. They have a coffee shop inside just for parents with free Wi-Fi and comfy seats so you can relax while the kiddos play.
Boss Play Escape Rooms – The Chocolate Factory Put your kids’ reasoning skills to the test inside this Chocolate Factory themed escape room where they’ll either steal the top-secret recipe or find the golden ticket.
2216 El Camino Real, Oceanside 760-385-3971 Online: boss-play.com
iFly Oceanside Suit up and fly around the vertical air tunnel at this indoor skydiving hang-out. If you don’t want to fly, they have seating all around which is still fun to sit and watch everyone else. Kids ages 3+ are allowed to fly!
3178 Vista Way, Oceanside 760-606-4359 Online: iflyworld.com
Sunset Market Every Thursday from 5-9 pm is the Sunset Market so plan ahead for this one. It’s an outdoor style festival with shopping from arts & craft vendors, live music and good food.
Oceanside ArtWalk Every month on the First Friday head to Artist Alley from 5-9 pm where you’ll find local artists featuring their pottery, crafts, jewelry, art, music and more! It’s a free event and local restaurants participate too.
Between Pier View Way + Mission Blvd. at Pacific Coast Hwy Online: oceansideartwalk.org
Little Louie’s Gift Shop Stop in to grab last-minute beach supplies like shovels, buckets, hats and beach blankets or just some souvenirs like a seashell wind chime, to remind you of your wonderful beach staycation.
Plantology Bring home some nature from this really cute plant café. You’ll find lots of indoor/outdoor plants and succulents to keep you company at home. Or give some to a friend when you pick up their gift-giving supplies to make it easy. You might even want to take a selfie in front of their beautiful insta-worthy hand-painted walls outside.
Oceanside Library Check out more than just books at this popular library. Out front, you can find ducks swimming in the gorgeous fountain, where kids will be mesmerized by the fountain jets spraying. Sign up for the summer reading program and, when they return, attend one of the kids' storytimes.
California Surf Museum It wouldn’t be a trip to Oceanside without learning a little about its surfing history. You’ll find chronicles of famous surfers and a surfboard exhibit featuring Bethany Hamilton’s board with the shark bite.
North County Model Railroad Society Tucked behind the Mission San Luis Rey next to Heritage Park, you’ll find this model railroad club. They offer tours every half hour on Saturdays and Sundays to see their running model train tracks and elaborate scenes.
Restaurants with games, activities and kid-friendly menus are amazing finds for parents to enjoy a meal out together and since Oceanside has become a local foodie destination with high-quality sourced ingredients in a casual setting, it’s the perfect place to grab a bite with the whole family. These family favorites are only minutes to the ocean so consider grabbing takeout and hit the beach.
ZigZag Pizza Build your own pizzas and salads, even with dairy-free cheese and gluten-free crusts too. Eat it there with over 150 craft beers to choose from or take it with you for your beach day. You’ll find it inside the Club Wyndham Oceanside Resort, but anyone can walk in and order up.
Hello Betty Head up to the rooftop deck at this casual seafood spot with a beachy vibe for some fish tacos, beer, ocean views and sunset thrills. Their seafood menu is too good not to stop in here for some ceviche, poke, fish and chips, seafood plates and more.
Tin Fish Oceanside This classic walk-up fish and chips bar also serves fish tacos, oyster po’ boys, fried seafood baskets, burgers, chicken and more. You’ll find patio tables and chairs nearby to enjoy as you watch the waves roll in.
That Boy Good BBQ This is hands down the best Southern and BBQ food in the area. Pulled pork, brisket sandwiches, gumbo, chicken and waffles, catfish, sweet tea and even a bloody mary with ribs on top.
Swami’s Café Oceanside You’ll be glad you stopped in for a bite at this popular locals' spot for some healthy breakfast, lunch, acai bowls, smoothies and fresh-squeezed juices.
202 N Coast Hwy, Oceanside 760-966-1203 Online: swamiscafe.com
Harney Sushi Not your average sushi restaurant with a live DJ it’s hip and lively and their unique sushi rolls are what bring locals back for more.
Zzang Hot Dogs Experience this Korean crispy rice corndogs either plane or covered with cubes of potatoes or cheese. For a truly unique flavor try their squid ink battered corn dogs or their cereal-covered cheese and sausage hot dogs.
Johnny Manana’s From breakfast, lunch and dinner you’ll have a fiesta in this fun and colorful setting. With low prices, live music, great food and drinks you’ll be coming back here for years to come like so many others do.
Ty’s Burger House This is a burger joint like no other! Relax on their back patio in this family-friendly restaurant serving up unique burgers. You’ll find grass-fed beef and vegetarian patties, but also some exotics like kangaroo, buffalo and venison.
Banana Dang Coffee This colorful artsy café serves up more than just coffee and golden chai lattes. They’re known for smoothies and toasts like the honey crunch on rosemary bread.
Brown Cup Café & Lounge Relax in their plush living room-style furniture and use their free Wi-Fi while you sip on a banana nut or raspberry latte or go for something exotic like Thai tea. Grab some avo toast to tide you over until lunchtime.
401 N Coast Hwy, Oceanside 760-231-7968
Where to Find Sweets & Treats in Oceanside
Parlor Doughnuts
Plan accordingly for a sweet snack in between the fun or as a little motivation to get the kids headed back out at the end of a long day.
Parlor Doughnuts This trendy donut shop has tourists and locals alike wrapped around their light and fluffy layered donuts. Their commitment to small-batch made in-house all day long is what shines through in all of their crafty flavors like french toast, Sandy Beach, maple pecan, strawberry shortcake, and more. The drive and line out the door are worth the wait.
San Luis Rey Bakery & Restaurant An Oceanside institution for over 52 years, you’ll find gorgeous and delicious cakes, cookies, breads and more tucked behind their equally delicious Mexican restaurant. Great place to stop for a bite and a treat before or after walking the grounds of the old Mission San Luis Rey next door.
Mission Donut House Friendly service, great selection and good coffee.
1502 Mission Ave., Oceanside 760-757-2979
La Michoacana Plus A funky colorful shop with bins full of Mexican paletas, or fruit popsicles, ice cream, tostiloco, agua frescas and more to choose from. There are over 20 flavors to choose from, like Oreos, watermelon, coconut, peach, kiwi and you can further choose to have it coated with chocolate, sprinkles or even gummy bears. You might be able to choose from all the flavors, but everything will melt in your mouth.
Nana’s & Pop's Sweet Shop One of the best sweet shops in O’side, but you’ll have to head to the harbor to find them. Lots of sweet-tooth tastes to choose from, like ice cream cones & sandwiches, candies, saltwater taffy and even a treat for your pup.
Staycations are the best when you find a kid-friendly hotel with pools and views! Even better when they're walkable to everything you need for a full day of fun and food.
The Seabird Resort Brand new oceanfront rooms just a three-minute walk to the beach can’t be beat! Suites have separate living rooms, terraces, room service, pool, spa and an on-site restaurant are just some of the amenities you’ll find to help you relax here.
Mission Pacific Hotel by Hyatt A rooftop pool with oceanfront views is enough to make anyone feel like they’re on vacation. They’ll even set up complimentary chairs, towels and sunbrellas for you on the beach. Other ways to enjoy your time here include two on-site restaurants with room service, bring your dog to this pet-friendly resort, workout in the gym or walk to the beach every morning.
201 N Myers St., Oceanside 844-330-1722 Online: hyatt.com
Club Wyndham Oceanside Pier Resort This highly rated family-friendly ocean view hotel has everything you need to escape your mid-week grind. Book a one or two-bedroom condo that comes with a separate living room, full kitchen and even a washer and dryer inside. Or you can book standard hotel rooms and all have access to their kid activities like crafting, contests and game room; swimming pool, the 7th-floor Skyroom library and lounge, free parking and all just a three-minute walk to the beach.
The Fin Hotel, Tapestry Collection by Hilton Walk two blocks from the Oceanside Transit Center and 10 minutes to the beach and pier. This boutique Hilton hotel has a zen garden and updated rooms. It’s walkable to some great foodie destinations like the Switchboard Restaurant and Banana Dang Coffee down the street.
133 S Coast Hwy, Oceanside 760-279-6300 Online: hilton.com
They’re sour…then they’re sweet…and they’re only available for the next two weeks! Krispy Kreme just launched Lemonade Glazed Donuts in four fresh squeezed flavors and they’re (almost) too pretty too eat.
Riffing off the classic thirst-quenching drink, these donuts give you options for your next run. Lemonade Glaze is the original glaze donut with a citrusy twist. It also comes in a Lemon Kreme filled version! Pink Lemonade Cake is topped with lemon buttercream and pink sugar. And Strawberry Lemonade has a strawberry topping with a delicious lemon icing swirl.
If you want to try them all, Krispy Kreme is offering a Lemonade Lover’s Dozen with three of each flavor. Need a new drink? The company also just launched Strawberry, Lemonade and Strawberry Lemonade Chillers that are guaranteed to refresh (and maybe give you a brain freeze).
Just in time for hitting that pandemic dinner wall, dineL.A. Restaurant Week is here to the rescue, serving up culinary eats and treats from Mar. 1 through Mar. 12. Not familiar with dineL.A.? It’s a twice-a-year event where participating restaurants offer a special lunch or dinner menu at a special price. So if you’ve always wanted to try a new spot with the kids but were afraid the cost was too prohibitive, now is your chance.
In normal, non-pandemic years, reservations are highly recommended but because this year is anything but normal, they’ve added both takeaway menus and partnered with Grubhub for free delivery. Now the question isn’t “What’s for dinner?” but “Where are we getting dinner from?” Check out our kid-friendly picks below!
DTLA
iStock
Brooklyn Ave. Pizza Co. This Boyle Heights newcomer is "serving up some serious lunch and dinner dineL.A. menus, featuring a three-course menu with a mix of specialty pizzas, wings, and papas" all for under $35. Once in-person dining resumes, we're positive this fast-casual pizza place will become your must-stop when you're traveling between east LA and the westside.
Pikunico Fried Chicken This Japanese sandwich shop is worth the hype and includes must-try like the Golden Chicken Sandwich and includes their flourless brownie cookie. For dinner, order the family basket that will feed 2 adults and 2 kids and includes 4 choconut chip cookies. As one reviewer puts it, "It's worth the trip here just for the exceptional food, but RowDTLA is a great place to social distance and be outside, great place to bring kids as well."
767 S Alameda St. Los Angeles Online: pikunico.com
Maccheroni Republic For carb-loving kids, grab some handmade, organic pasta dishes and send yourselves on a gastronomical trip that will have you (almost) believing you have traveled to the Italian countryside.
Pez Cantina Another dreamy spot whose food will transport you to your favorite coastal- Mexican town, this local favorite is known for its authentic chips and salsa. Don't forget to save room for the churros ice cream sundae.
Same Same Thai For kids that are already fans of Pad Thai, hit up Same Same Thai's dinner menu that includes a choice of Pad Se Ew or Shrimp Katieam. And of course the tapioca pudding with coconut hits the dessert spot.
All Day Baby Rated as a top LA newcomer, this bakery-bar-diner opened three months before COVID broke out, forcing it to reinvent itself in order to survive—and we are so glad they did. While their menu hasn't been released for dineL.A. yet, we are praying that their ADB Biscuit Sandwich will make the cut. And if not, get yourselves over there and order it from their pick-up window—the LA TImes calls it, "a biscuit sandwich that crushes all others." Enough said.
Carousel Restaurant Hollywood This restaurant has been serving authentic middle-eastern food since 1983 and is (thankfully) showing no signs of slowing down, pandemic or not. We love ordering small dishes and plates to share, increasing the chance your kids may try (and like!) something new.
LN2 Pizza Shoppe Need we say more than yummy wood-fired pizza? We didn't think so either.
7212 Melrose Ave. Los Angeles 323-917-5178 Online: ln2restaurant.com
Gracias Madre This West Hollywood staple changed the Mexican food game forever with their plant-based meals that are guaranteed to convert even the most ardent meat-lovers. There's a reason why this spot has a cult following—and we're sure you'll become a stan if you aren't already.
Hugo Restaurant If the pandemic pounds are feeling a little much, then order from Hugo's—a restuarant that emphasizes "health-focused Californian fare." With 7 different bowls available for lunch, there is sure to be something for everyone in the family.
Granville Parents probably already know about this go-to spot for families but during dineL.A. you can get a three-course lunch for $30. In the past, various locations have participated in dineL.A. but this year, you can only get the special menu at their West Hollywood location.
Adrift Burger Bar Burger lovers rejoice! Michelin-starred Chef David Myers' signature burger along with his truffle chips made the lunch-menu cut for this year's dineL.A. Grab a couple of these and head to the beach for a seaside picnic that will feel downright vacation-worthy.
Maple Block Meat Company Dig into juicy ribs and sample fresh-squeezed lemonade at this authentic Culver City BBQ spot. Looking for a bigger BBQ experience? Ask about their family meals and their family dinners to-go boxes too!
This colorful experiment found on CandyExperiments teaches your little scientist all about density using candy as the main ingredient. What’s not to love about this weighty rainbow!
Brain Boost Factor: The volume of sugar in each colored layer is the key to figuring out why the colors rise or sink.
S'more Solar Oven
Tierra Encantada
This awesome project from Tierra Encantada can be recreated any time of the year, as long as the sun is shining. You will need:
-Cardboard box
- Aluminum foil
- Plastic wrap
- Black construction paper
- Tape
- Scissors
- Something to prop your oven’s lid open (ruler, stick, marker, etc.)
- S’more goodies - graham crackers, chocolate, marshmallows (you can also reheat cooked food!)
Cover the inside of the box with aluminum foil (use tape to seal tightly). Place black construction paper inside the box to absorb light. Stack your s’more ingredients. Cover opening of box with plastic wrap to conceal heat. Adjust lid to find the best angle to reflect sunlight. Use a stick to keep the lid in place.
Get cooking! Don’t forget to check on your food every few minutes. Depending on the temperature outside and reflection of the sun, it should take about 30 minutes to cook.
When it's pumpkin time again, do some sciencey fun while you carve your family's jack o'lantern by letting the kiddos explore the ooey gooey goop inside. This sensory activity is ideal for little scientists who are into making hands-on discoveries. Have them close their eyes and describe what the inside of the pumpkin feels like. When they're done, scoop out the seeds and let them dry. Your creative kid can add a few drips of red, orange or yellow food coloring into a bag, toss in the seeds and coat them. When they're dry, the seeds are perfect for making mini mosaics or other types if seasonal art. Not only is this sensory exploration an artsy adventure, but it's also a lesson in the plant life cycle. Discuss why pumpkins need seeds. Save a few seeds and plant them in indoor pots, creating a second fall science activity!
Insider tip: in the mood for Pumpkin recipes? We have pumpkin recipes for every taste bud. Just hop on over to our story for pumpkin recipes here.
This STEM idea from Lemon Lime Adventures takes autumn engineering to the next level. Your little learner can explore the art of building, getting hands-on with concepts such as form vs. function, balance and weight distribution.
Break out your favorite family movie and grab the butter to go with homemade popcorn. Find out how to pop your own in this experiment outlined on Tinkerlab.
Brain Boost Factor: This is a simple heating up water experiment. The trick is that the water is inside the corn kernel. Who knew?
Take the traditional rock candy string experiment to the next level by making these tasty geodes. It’s all about crystallization achieved through total saturation with this experiment. Find out how to make these realistic looking candy creations at How to Cook That. Rock on!
Brain Boost Factor: They'll learn all about how crystals form and this one gives curious cuties the chance to see them life-size without using a microscope.
When a trip to colonial Williamsburg isn’t on the menu, you and your little chef can make your own homestead-style whip cream or butter by simply shaking and shaking and shaking heavy cream. Make and Takes has everything you need to turn back the clock in your own kitchen.
Brain Boost Factor: Churning butter and whipping cream is all about agitating the fat molecules (those pesky buggers) and getting them to eventually clump together. The longer you shake ‘em up, the stickier they get.
Microwave Marshmallows
Put marshmallows in the microwave and your little scientists will be amazed at the crazy antics that follow. They puff up. They shrink back down. And they still taste good. The Exploratorium spells out the necessary steps for this simple (tasty) experiment.
Brain Boost Factor: The thrilling combo of sugar, water and air do amazing things when heated up and cooled off quickly.
Bake Fresh Bread
Allison Sutcliffe
Break out your favorite bread recipe (and that bread machine that’s collecting dust in the cupboard) to cook up a loaf alongside this experiment, explained on Teach Beside Me. It’s an “inner working” visual that will certainly make an impact on your little cooker.
Brain Boost Factor: As yeast munches on the sugars in the bread, the gasses released perk it up, up, up!
Shake Up Ice Cream
iStock
\You don’t need all 31 flavors to start in on this experiment with your kidlet. Get the step-by-step on shaking out single serve scoops in re-sealable plastic bags on Instructables. Be sure to have fresh fruit or other treats ready to mix in when the experiment is over. Yum!
Brain Boost Factor: The salt does most of the work in this frosty experiment. It lowers the freezing point of the outside ice enough so that the milk mixture inside becomes cold and creamy. Delish!
This egg-cellent experiment described on Science- Sparks will have everyone cringing when little hands put the big squeeze on a fragile egg. Try as you might, that baby won’t break. Until you crack it into a pan to make breakfast for dinner afterward.
Brain Boost Factor: The egg’s shape is clearly stronger than it looks.
Let your little chemists study the periodic table and make a tasty treat, all at once. Prep a batch of (extra big) sugar cookies, let the kids choose an element at the beginning of the periodic table, then set out frosting and M&Ms to re-create the atomic layout. Easy! Get the details over at Life at Cold Feathers Farm.
Brain Boost Factor: Giving your kids a visual (and tasty) version of nature’s building blocks is an easy intro to the physical sciences.
Test Grape Juice
Allison Sutcliffe
If you didn’t know grape juice was an indicator before, you will after walking your sidekick through this experiment found on education.com. Simply mix up some juice, add in a few extras and watch what happens. It’s a juicy revelation!
Brain Boost Factor: Recognizing acids and bases is the name of this color-changing game.
Insert a little plant science into the mix by re-growing food from scraps. Think onions, potatoes, and lettuces for this one (psst… green onions are a super easy, fast option). Get the low down on all that recycled goodness at Mrs. Happy Homemaker. Since plants need water and sunlight to grow, exposing scrap roots to that winning combo helps them recharge.
Plain old fresh-squeezed lemonade is so last year. Boost the fun quotient and learn a simple science concept simultaneously when you recreate this edible Fizzy Lemonade drink from Learn With Play at Home. It’s super easy to mix and little sippers report it’s pretty tickly too. A great alternative to the baking soda-vinegar volcano, it shows kids what happens when an acid and base are mixed together.
'Tis the season for gumdrops and this classic structural engineering challenge uses just two ingredients: toothpicks and candy. We’re particularly fond of this one from The Homeschool Scientist because it helps you explain what the concepts (engineering, load distribution, physics, shape comparison) are to your kiddos while they are building it. doing it. Visit The Homeschool Scientist to get going. And click here for five more gumdrop-themed challenges.
Bake Hygroscopic Cookies
This simple science experiment is best when you check in on it the next morning. Bake up a batch of cookies, then place them in an airtight container with a piece of fresh bread. Watch as the cookies stay straight-from-the-oven soft thanks to the moisture of the bread (The sugar in the cookies is hygroscopic, which means it absorbs water molecules out of the bread). The best part? Getting to eat the cookies!
Explore the science of your child's fave Valentine's Day candy and use up those leftovers STAT. Toss them into warm water and wait (and watch, of course) to see what happens. Repeat the science experiment with cool water, veggie oil, milk or any other liquid and record what caused the candy to dissolve the fastest, which took the longest.
Teach kids the importance of smell with this activity that asks them to use only their noses to identify objects. Can they sniff out the fish oil over the garlic cloves? The lemon juice over the orange oil? Homeschooling blogger Ana has the instructions at Babble Dabble Do.
Tummy’s rumbling–it’s time to eat! Did you know that you “eat” with your nose and eyes as well as your mouth? It’s true. Put your family’s snifffers and peepers to the test with this juice-guessing game.
How to: 1. Stack a piece of tape on the bottom of each glass and number them one to four, making sure your partner can’t see the numbers. Pour one type of juice into each glass.
2. Send your partner out of the room. Drip a different food coloring into each juice and stir so your partner can’t recognize the juice by its color alone. Record the number, juice type, and color in each glass on a piece of paper.
3. Call your partner back. Tell her to hold her nose, sip from each glass, and guess the juice If she’s like most people, she’ll be kind of confused–her eyes and tongue give her two conflicting flavor messages.
4. Ask her to unplug her nose, close her eyes, and sniff the juice before drinking it. Her guesses should be on target now. All hail the mighty schnoz!
From Candy Experiments 2 by Loralee Leavitt/Andrews McMeel Publishing, LLC.
Did the candy melt or disappear? Your sweetums might think it’s magic, but it’s really all about how oil redirects light, causing half the candy to disappear! Click here for the instructions on how to recreate this mind-warping experiment.
After figuring out this simple experiment your sidekick will want to play Houdini with all her friends. All it takes is an apple, vanilla extract, and a cotton ball to pull one over on her tastebuds. Abracadabra!
Be careful: The water only has the power to make the sugar crystals “invisible” when it’s piping hot. After the water cools down and evaporates, the sugar turns back into a solid. And with a little help of your sugar-soaked string, the crystals will find a home to grow upon and become rock candy. Learn how to make your smart sweets with these instructions from the Exploratorium.
You’ve probably seen the label that says “fortified with iron” on your cereal box, but how much iron is actually in your cereal? Is there enough to cause a magnetic reaction? This super easy experiment doesn’t require too many fancy ingredients (cereal + magnet) which means you and the kiddos can try it right away. The results may surprise you! Get the how-to at Rookie Parenting and get started!
Looking for a fun hands-on activity that keeps giving? Consider making a bird feeder or two. Not only are they easy for kids to make, but it’s a low-cost project that will keep them busy. Even better, adding a bird feeder to your backyard is a great way for kids to connect with nature and develop a new hobby to fill long summer days. Break out the binoculars, future bird watchers, and consider whether a classic pine cone feeder or a recycled version made with paper and plastic is the right fit for you. We’ve got bird feeder plans for them all.
These DIY toilet paper tube bird feeders will add a bright, happy touch to any backyard. Rescue a few toilet paper tubes from the recycling bin, add crepe paper for a festive touch, and you'll be ready to make your own in no time. Fly over to Creative Jewish Mom for step-by-step instructions.
Snugglebug University dreamed up this sunflower-inspired bird feeder for a kids' art group—and we think it's a perfect DIY project for long summer days. The centerpiece for this clever design is a paper plate holder. Just add birdseed, nut butter and a few other materials, and you'll be ready to make your own eye-catching bird feeder in no time. Find out how at Snugglebug University.
The crafty chickadee over at MADE Everyday took the lead making this delicious craft. All you’ll need is a few pinecones, peanut butter, birdseed, string and about five minutes. Check out the how-to here, and use the leftover peanut butter to make your hungry birds a tasty treat.
If you want to make a bird feeder with your kids but don't have the energy to put together another craft project, you can order a ready-made kit with all the supplies you'll need to make two bird feeders. Dirt and Dazzle offers ready-to-ship DIY bird feeder boxes ($15) with wooden ornaments, birdseed, craft sticks and peanut butter. Bonus: these boxes make a great gift for nature-loving kids and future Audubon Society members.
The art teacher behind Art Bar Blog came up with this easy upcycle idea for transforming an empty milk carton into a vibrant birdhouse. Utilizing the carton’s house-like shape, she added a small hole and then had her students decorate using their favorite paint colors. You’ll find a list of materials and instructions here.
Keep budding woodworkers busy with this DIY wood birdhouse kit. Available from Etsy shop DJA Woodworks ($20), these sturdy wooden kits come ready to assemble. Your kid can paint the rainbow birdhouse of her dreams, then put it outside for her feathered friends. Add a few sunflower seeds, and hungry birds will move right in.
This recycled craft by Handmade by Kelly adds a pop of color to any backyard. The bird won’t be able to resist stopping for a snack at this vibrant feeder. Choose your favorite hues of duct tape and head over to Momtastic to learn how to make your own.
Be sure to save the sticks from your favorite frozen treats this summer, because this popsicle stick bird feeder is super simple to make, and lots of fun to decorate. Head over to Create-Celebrate-Explore for instructions.
The vibrant colors of this recycled bird feeder really pop against the tree’s green leaves. Made using an empty soda bottle, and assorted hues of tissue paper, you’ll find a full list of materials and the step-by-step instructions over at Artzy Creations.
Your budding builder will love tackling this fun outdoor craft. When it comes to making your own version of this LEGO feeder, the experts over at Project FeederWatch advise adding drain holes, cleaning regularly and storing in a sheltered location. Visit their site for help identifying and feeding the birds in your neck of the woods.
These peck-worthy ornaments were created by the crafty duo behind Eighteen25. Choose your favorite cookie cutter shapes, and head over to the blog for a list of ingredients and the tutorial.
These decorative birdhouses from Sew Country Chick are cute as a button. A little paint and an assortment of buttons are all you’ll need to add a little flair to any ordinary wooden birdhouse. Fly over to Mod Podge Rocks for the how-to.
Planning to make a pitcher of fresh-squeezed orange juice or refreshing lemonade? Then be sure to save the rinds for this colorful craft from Handmade by Kelly. These sweet bird feeders are easy to make using the rinds of your favorite citrus. Find the instructions over at Mother Nature Network.
This eco-friendly bird feeder is perfect for serving the flock of feathered friends visiting your backyard this season. Head over to The Creative Cubby to learn to make this easy, recycled craft.