It’s been pretty cool to see how many small businesses have popped up that focus on the physical fitness and mental health of our youngest Chicagoans. Many are owned by fellow Chicago parents or neighbors with a passion for instilling a lifelong commitment to staying active in kids. We did a deep dive to find places that fit every kind of kid, with a broad range of athletic abilities, interests and ages. From indoor rock climbing to swim lessons and acrobatics to soccer, dig through our suggestions to find an exercise facility that caters to kids near you. And, after they nail the workout, treat them to a refuel from one of our favorite juice or smoothie bars.

Redline Athletics Old Irving

Redline Athletics

Ed and Laura Hosty are fellow parents and lifelong athletes who saw a need for a youth training program in Chicago that focused on speed, agility and strength training with an emphasis on injury prevention. Their new 12,000-square-foot facility trains athletes to become more athletic, more comfortable moving their bodies and more resilient so they can achieve success on every field of play. Redline Athletics welcomes kids ages 8-18 across the spectrum of athleticism — all are welcome. They offer a free trial session to check out the space and determine if it's a fit.

3800 N. Milwaukee Ave., Old Irving; Online: redlineathleticsoffers.com

On Your Mark

On Your Mark

Owner and Nike Master Trainer Emily Hutchins started the Youth Development Program at On Your Mark based on the principles of making young athletes better—not only their athletic performance but by teaching them to be well-rounded humans. In order to support sustainable long-term development, kids work on physical and mental strength, mobility, stability, agility and speed. The one-hour sessions, held on Fridays at 4:30 p.m., are taught by certified personal trainer and IL Physical Education Association Teacher of the Year Pat Floyd. Pat is a pro at keeping things energetic and the kids engaged. 

1011 W. Monroe, West Loop; Online: oymtraining.com

First Ascent Climbing & Fitness

First Ascent Climbing & Fitness

Kids are natural-born climbers, unhindered by that little thing adults call "fear". First Ascent fosters curiosity with 8-week classes that build confidence and encourage peer connection in a positive environment. Sign your kids up for a one-hour block of Kids Rock Blocks on Saturdays and Sundays and let expert youth instructors guide them to new heights. You can hang around to cheer them on or take the opportunity to run errands. They also offer day-off and summer camps and host birthday parties.

3516 N. Spaulding, Avondale & 4718 N. Broadway, Uptown; Online: faclimbing.com

SK8 Chicago

Certified Personal Trainer and lifelong skateboarder Ben Karbin created SK8 Chicago to provide lessons to the next generation of boarders. Over the last 20 years mentoring young skaters, he's honed his ability to make aspiring skaters feel comfortable and confident to learn new tricks and techniques. SK8 offers skate lessons, clinics and camps for all levels and also builds custom ramps. They have equipment available to rent if you don't have your own and can offer advice if you'd like to make a purchase. 

SK8 Chicago works with you to select a convenient location for lessons; Online: sk8chicago.com

Brooklyn Boulders

rock climbing in chicago for kids, bouldering in chicago, rock climbing in chicago, indoor rock climbing
Brooklyn Boulders

This place will make your wall-climbing kids straight-up giddy. They offer several indoor rock climbing terrains to conquer and knowledgeable instructors are there every step of the way up, up, up. Two-hour Kids Academy (ages 5-12) and Teen Academy (ages 11 & up) programs are available after school and on weekends and full-day Adventure Days are a great way to spend school holidays and summer break. Climbers have a chance to sharpen their climbing skills, while also having a platform for peer socialization. 

100 S. Morgan St., West Loop & 2121 N. Clybourn, Lincoln Park; Online: brooklynboulders.com

The Little Gym of Chicago

The Little Gym believes motor skill development that's made fun leads to a lifetime of success. They work with kids ages 4 mos.-12 yrs. to build self-esteem while helping them reach their highest level of mental, physical and emotional growth. Classes included Parent/Child, Pre-K Gymnastics, Grade School Gymnastics, drop-in play and special events. They also offer regular Parent Survival Nights where the kids play for 2 1/2 hours while adults enjoy much-needed me-time. 

3216 N. Lincoln, Lakeview; Online: thelittlegym.com

Ultimate Ninjas

Ultimate Ninjas

Inspired by the TV show American Ninja Warrior, Ultimate Ninjas allows kids to get their energy out on obstacle and agility courses. Built with all ages and skill levels in mind, you'll find swinging ropes, monkey bars, climbing walls and more. Kids can schedule 55-minute classes that have them working on strength, endurance and confidence or book an open play session. Ultimate Ninjas also hosts day-off and summer camps and they're a popular spot for birthday parties. 

Note: Due to a fire in Feb. that destroyed two small businesses, the Albany Park location had to temporarily close. Please support their other locations while they rebuild. 

Three locations in Naperville, Libertyville and Albany Park; Online: ultimateninjas.com

Brush Park Gymnasium

When owner Adrienne Farrel had her first baby in 2013, she felt there was a lack of workout facilities that effectively catered to families wanting to maintain a regular fitness routine. Having a Master's in Exercise Physiology in her pocket and a new goal to provide options for Chicago families, she created a space where every family member can have access to high-quality health and wellness. And, she did it beautifully. The stunning facility has all the equipment needed for an effective adult workout, a kid's playspace with a climbing wall, hanging pod chairs, and a magnetic wall and outdoor space for parents to sit, chat and enjoy coffee while the kids play. 

4646 N. Rockwell St., Ravenswood; Online: brushparkgym.com

Windy City Ninjas

boy climbing wall at windy city ninjas things to do with kids in chicago
Maria Chambers

The obstacles at Windy City Ninjas challenge wanna-be American Ninja Warriors looking to tap their fierce inner Ninja. They have a mission of helping kids set goals and overcome, persevere and achieve what they never thought possible. They have structured, progressive 45-minute classes where kids can build on their development each week or kids can sign-up for a 90-minute open play session. Windy City Ninjas also hosts day-off and summer camps, as well as birthday parties. 

2550 W. Bradley Pl., North Center & 684 W. Lake St., Elmhurst; Online: windycityninjas.com

Fit City Kids

Fit City Kids combines family, fun and physical education by providing structured classes and an open area for drop-in play that's active and encourages good health and fitness habits. Class offerings include tumbling, fitness, basketball, sports sampler and soccer. They also offer personal training sessions and family boot camps. 

2540 W. Lawrence Ave., Ravenswood; Online: fitcitykids.com

iFly

iFly

After training with an instructor, your little birds will enter a vertical wind tunnel and experience the freedom of flight. This might not seem like exercise, but kids need to engage their core, glute and spinal muscles to make it all happen. There's also a decent amount of mind-body coordination that comes into play. 

3 Chicago locations in Naperville, Rosemont and Lincoln Park; Online: iflyworld.com

TOCA Naperville

From a kid getting their first introduction to soccer to the high school athlete wanting to fine-tune their skillset, TOCA Football's technology-enabled training program develops well-rounded players through repetition and game-like simulations.

The offerings at TOCA Naperville don't stop at soccer. Playing sports helps kids develop gross and fine motor skills, teaches them to work collaboratively and follow directions and builds transferable socialization skills. When taught correctly, a child's overall development will be positively impacted. With those ideas in mind, Kids in Sports is a specialized program for ages 1-8 that instructs kids in baseball, basketball, flag football, floor hockey, lacrosse, soccer and volleyball. 

1740 Quincy Ave. Naperville; Online: playersindoor.com

Hi-Five Sports

Hi-Five

Hi-Five Sports is about so much more than winning or losing, it's about teamwork, playing hard and fair, making new friends and learning the power of camaraderie. The staff is filled with experienced professionals who are ready to guide kids through a positive, self-esteem-building experience. Hi-Five's Housecalls invites you to gather a group of 3-10 kids for personalized 1- to 2-hour programming at a location you select. You can schedule once a week, multiple times a week or a one-off playdate—like a birthday party. Best of all, they bring all the equipment needed for a full sports experience. They also host day-off and summer camps. 

At a location of your choosing; Online: hifivesportsclubs.com

The Actor's Gymnasium

The Actor's Gymnasium is letting you in on a secret—the circus is more than elephants and clowns. It's physical and mental fitness and learning to trust yourself. Their classes focused on juggling, stilts and ariel arts help instill confidence and a sense of pride that comes along with skill mastery. 

927 Noyes St., Evanston; Online: actorsgymnasium.org

Swim Lessons

Goldfish Swim School

In a city where “cooler by the lake” is part of the daily forecast, getting the littlest citizens swimming is a must. Get your guppies going with classes catered to them—even babies barely sitting on their own can join in on the fun. These swim schools focus on everything from playful instruction to competitive training, all properly tailored to a child’s development. 

POW! Gym

Sign kids up for boxing and fitness classes to increase strength, stamina and build leadership skills. They'll learn the fundamentals of a variety of martial arts, plus traditional boxing training. For kids ages 4-7, the Pee Wees program is focused on developing gross motor skills and teaching kids how to follow instructions with classes like Superhero Training, Ninja Warrior, Tumbling, Agility and more. POW! also hosts day-off and summer camps and birthday parties. 

310 S. Racine, West Loop; Online: powgymchicago.com

Bubbles Academy

Bubbles Academy is a great way for ages 0-6 to get their bodies moving with classes that incorporate yoga, music and movement classes for infants, crawlers and walkers and entry-level ballet. The Lincoln Park location includes an outdoor nature playground using materials that inspire play and connection with the natural world. 

If you'd prefer to take in-home classes, their website has over 30 pre-recorded virtual classes

2331 N. Elston, Lincoln. Park; Online: bubblesacademy.com

My Gym

From crawling to the first handstand, My Gym caters to kids ages 4 mos.-8 yrs. with classes like Waddlers, Gymnastics, Terrific Tots, Ninja Training and more. For more than 35 years, they've been creating supportive environments for kids to develop self-esteem and confidence. 

6 locations in Lincoln, River Forest, Skokie, Wheaton, Buffalo Grove and Aurora; Online: mygym.com

Roller Skating

two girls roller skating
iStock

Chicago has a rich roller skating history rooted in the James Brown “JB” style, known for elaborate footwork. It’s also the birthplace of roller derby. While rinks are few and far between, you can still get your glide on at select retro-fun spots that have stood the test of time. Introduce your kids to this slick part of Chicago’s history and impress them with your 8-wheeled dance moves at these old-school-cool roller skating rinks.

— Maria Chambers

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Ah, summer break—a child’s favorite time of year. School is out, alarm clocks are turned off and playtime is the assignment all day, every day. For parents, on the other hand, this can be a stressful time. What am I going to do with them when I’m at work? What else can they do at home other than watch TV and play? Are they going to forget everything they learned during the school year?

Fortunately for local families, there are two destinations that check off all the boxes to keep kiddos entertained and engaged while also helping them grow and learn new skills. Say hello to Day Camp @ the JCC in Manhattan and Camp Settoga in Pomona, New York. Both camps, run by the team at the Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan, offer one-of-a-kind activities that’ll teach your youngsters lifelong lessons, introduce them to new friends and keep them on the go (and off their screens!). And we’re happy to report Camp Settoga’s got some exciting new features this year (see below).

 

In addition to being exposed to vibrant experiences, camps also have positive effects on children’s socio-emotional development. According to a poll conducted by the American Camp Association, 74% of campers said that going to camp helped them complete activities they were afraid to do at first. 70% of parents also reported their child gaining self-confidence after camp.

To help you decide which camp is best for your family, we laid out the ins and outs of Day Camp @ the JCC and Camp Settoga, so you can feel confident your kids are having the best experience possible.

 

Day Camp @ the JCC

For children ages three to six, Day Camp @ the JCC in Manhattan offers a city-based experience for little ones who enjoy hands-on activities. During the June through August camp sessions, children can feel like Picasso for the day through art projects that include clay making, painting, wire sculpting and more. If they want to give Gordon Ramsay a run for his money, youngsters can serve up some flavorful dishes during culinary lessons.

For more active tots, Day Camp @ the JCC, located at the JCC's state-of-the-art facility, is fully equipped with two indoor pools, a rooftop playground and a gymnasium to keep them busy. Older campers, from five to six years old, have the opportunity to choose activities that best suit their interests or they’ve been longing to try. Electives include chess, crazy constructions, dance, songwriting, sports and storytelling. Your kid will leave camp as a jack of all trades!

Help your kiddos find their passion at Day Camp @ the JCC!

Camp Settoga

Nestled in the foothills of Harriman State Park, in Pomona, NY, Camp Settoga is the perfect destination for active adventurers and sports enthusiasts ages four to 12. With over 20 acres of lush greenery, your children can get back to nature and explore the outdoors throughout the entire summer.

Brand new for summer 2022, Camp Settoga features a mini-golf course (yes, you read that right!), tennis and basketball courts and an amphitheater. Plus: your explorers can take on the camp’s zip line and challenge course, swim laps in the Olympic-size pool or test out their green thumb in the garden.

Camp Settoga offers daily roundtrip transportation from the Upper West and East Sides, Midtown, Chelsea and Harlem in air-conditioned buses, with bus counselors overseeing every step of the journey.

Trade electronics for greenery at Camp Settoga!

 

Register your children today at Day Camp @ the JCC or Camp Settoga for an unforgettable summer!

The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health hasn’t cancelled Halloween, but they are recommending that door-to-door trick or treating “not happen” and prohibiting most festivities—both inside and out—because of the pandemic. Fear not, though! LA’s top impresarios have come up with a solution: spooktacular drive-thru Halloween experiences. So get dressed in full costume, hop in the car, buckle up and get ready for a scary-good time!

Hauntoween

Courtesy of Hauntoween LA

What do you do when your daughter turns 5 on Halloween, but trick or treating and other in-person fun is off limits? If you're Jasen Smith, the COO of Experiential Supply, you create a massive drive-thru Halloween celebration that's fun for all ages. For three weeks, Experiential Supply will host the first ever Hauntoween, a 20-25-minute experience that includes pumpkin picking, "door-to-door" trick or treating (with plenty of candy, of course), costumed actors, musical performances and a jack-o-lantern tunnel—all to be enjoyed from the safety of your car. 

Cost: $70 per vehicle

Dates: Fri., Oct. 9- Sun., Oct. 31

6100 Topanga Canyon Blvd.
Woodland Hills
Online: hauntoweenla.com

Nights of the Jack Drive-Thru

Courtesy of Nights of the Jack

Discover a Halloween wonderland filled with larger-than-life pumpkin creations and gourd-geous depictions of your favorite movie stars, sports heroes and animated characters. You'll cruise by thousands of hand-carved Jack O’ Lanterns and have a chance to immerse yourself in what's sure to be one of the year's most Instagrammable Halloween experiences. 

Dates: Thurs.-Sun., Oct. 1-Oct. 25; daily, Oct. 26-Nov. 1

Cost: $69 per vehicle

King Gillette Ranch
26800 Mulholland Hwy.
Calabasas
Online: nightsofthejack.com

 

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A Gentle Halloween Drive-Thru

Little ones can get dressed up and head to the Gentle Barn for a behind-the-scenes tour of the animal sanctuary, that includes plenty of Halloween-themed decor, plus a chance to "trick or treat," drive-thru-style. 

Dates: Sundays, Sept. 27-Nov. 1

Cost: $28 per person (two person  minimum per car)

15825 Sierra Highway
Santa Clarita
Online: gentlebarn.org

Haunted Highway

Cocoparisienne via Pixabay

Hosted by the city of Santa Clarita, this free family-friendly experience (taking place just two days in October) allows you to celebrate all the tricks and treats of Halloween from the comfort and safety of your own vehicle. You will start with a drive through Scarecrow Alley before arriving at Haunted Highway. As you make your way down the spooky stretch, the story will come to life through set pieces, props, live actors, lighting, sound and visual effects. And for an extra treat? Each vehicle will receive a single goodie bag with candy, crafts, and more at the end of the drive-thru.

Cost: Free (tickets must be reserved in advance)

Dates: Thurs., Oct. 29 & Fri., Oct. 30 (Friday's event is currently sold-out)

George A. Caravalho Santa Clarita Sports Complex Gymnasium
20870 Centre Pointe Parkway
Santa Clarita
Online: eventbrite.com

Urban Legends of Southern California

NeONBRAND via Unsplash

WARNING: This drive-thru is truly terrifying and not recommended for kids under 13. But if you have older children (or just love a good scare yourself), Urban Legends is a must. The 45-minute drive-thru haunt experience is taking over the parking lot of the OC Fair & Event Center in Costa Mesa. Be sure to roll up your windows and lock your doors... mwahahahaha!

Cost: starting at $60 per car

Dates: Wed.-Sun.; Oct. 1-Nov. 1.

88 Fair Dr.
Costa Mesa
Online: urbanlegendshaunt.com

–Shannan Rouss

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I did not vote in the primary election. Please put your pitchforks down, figurative or not. 

I tried. I really, really tried. 

Between herding two little kids, ages 8 and 4, running our household, and all the other endless little tasks that make being a stay-at-home mom the most unrecognized superhero of all time, I failed my civic duty. 

“It was poor planning,” I texted my husband, then to help express my feelings, I added a sad face emoji. But really the feeling behind the little yellow face with the upside-down smile was a feeling of being an abject failure. 

Of all the tasks on my to-do list on Super Tuesday, voting was probably third, behind feeding and connecting with my family. I carried my sample ballot with me in my giant mom purse. It was nestled between the 40 bandages for boo-boos, the emergency granola bars to calm hangry meltdowns, and the book I have been reading for the last year. I am on page 10. 

I crammed for the primary election like it was finals week in college. I quickly read the candidates’ statements and the ballot initiatives. Then I looked up endorsement articles like they were Spark Notes telling me how to think. Lastly, when still undecided—I’m just going to put it all out there—I looked at the political party as a tie-breaker. 

I did this between school drop-offs, pick-ups, endless errands, appointments, and extracurricular activities. I really wanted to check that box on Super Tuesday. 

And I wanted to involve my kids. 

My first-born son has been coming to vote with me since he could toddle alongside the little corral in the basketball gymnasium. At our first election experience as a family of three, our little guy was knee-high, shaking the leg of the table while my husband tried to fill out the right dot, then he was waist-high peering over the table while I voted with one hand and held his baby sister in the other. 

For the longest time, the “I voted” stickers was the piéce de résistance for my kids, worn like badges of honor while they played in the park after enduring the silence and stillness of the polling place. Now 8 years old, my son passes his sticker to sister’s eager hands. He is more interested in learning about the candidates, the issues, and which way I voted.

So on Super Tuesday, I waited until after I picked them both up from school to go vote.  

Our voting center is within walking distance from our house in the suburbs of Los Angeles. It is located in a basketball gymnasium where my son first learned to make a jump shot. Usually, we walk right in and get swallowed up by the 10 poll workers looking for anything to do. 

This Super Tuesday, the line of people snaked around the entire perimeter of the gym and out the door. 

“Wow,” my 8-year-old exhaled. “This is like Disneyland.” 

Except at the end of the line, there is no promise of a thrilling ride. Just a sticker.

The lines symbolized something bigger, right? Voters were galvanized to make their voices heard. Go, democracy!

This is all great unless you have young kids, who ate the emergency granola bars in the first 10 minutes in line. My 4-year-old sang and danced all the songs from “Frozen 2” then we all played “I Spy” until I am sure we ran out of things to spy. 

“I don’t know how much longer we can wait here,” I texted my husband, who was stuck at work. “Maybe someone will roll out a TV with cartoons.” 

No such luck. 

Ahead of me were moms in similar duress. Little kids, whose little bodies were not built to stand in long lines, were falling apart. Threats were hurled. Then slowly, moms started dropping like flies. 

One little boy stood on a bench and jumped down on top of his little brother like a professional wrestler. Their mom connected eyes with me as if to say, “That’s it!” And they left. 

And after 45 minutes of pretending to be the mysterious voice from the enchanted forest in “Frozen 2,” my daughter said she was hungry and she didn’t care about voting anymore.

We were only halfway to the front of the line, so I called it, too. The voting center was open until 8 pm. We will walk home, have dinner and come back. Surely, the line would be shorter, right?

No such luck. 

The line was out the door and down the sidewalk by the time we came back. People were standing with the slumped shoulders posture of defeat. As we walked up, my daughter slapped her brother in the back, yelled, “You’re it!” and ran off full speed until she slipped and fell. 

She howled in a way that told me even 40 bandages wouldn’t do. That’s when I knew voting was not going to happen.

“Why is voting so hard?” my 8-year-old asked. 

It’s a good question. News stories from the “LA Times” continue to come in about long lines, and glitches in the new voting system. I was not the only one. 

Watching the poll results come in without my vote was surreal. It made me wonder if the other mothers who were forced to leave because of the long wait were able to cast their ballots.

I could have voted earlier. I should not have forced the issue of making it an experience with my kids, but in the end, it was not my fault. A voting system that doesn’t make it easy for mothers with young children to vote is a broken system. 

The presidential election is eight months away. That’s plenty of time to fix it.

So the next time a mom says she did not vote, spare your judgment. Just give her a hug. Her kid might have body-slammed his little brother in line while she tried her hardest to perform her civic duty.  

Lynda is a creative person, a wife, a mom and half a CrossFit athlete. Just half, because rope climbs suck. Despite the shiny veneer, the cracks in her identity make her marginally okay. 

Park play time should be characterized by playful physical activity and not by safety-related stress. In theory, wide open spaces are wonderful, but not so much when your eyes are working overtime. This is why we love fenced in playgrounds or at least semi-enclosed playgrounds that take the worry factor down a few notches. Here are 11 of our favorites.

photo: Anne C. via Yelp

1. NTC Park
While this one is not surrounded by a fence, it makes the list because of a generous stretch of grass acts which acts as a barrier between the play area and parking lot. Because of the addition of the Public Market, parking is quite scarce in the lot behind Kid Ventures, but (usually) abundant at the park. The two age-specific play structures often solve the worry of the smaller set being intimidated by the more seasoned park players. This park scores an A+ for catering to all ages and a central location that’s a magnet for mamas from all over San Diego.

2370 Cushing Rd.
San Diego, Ca
Online: parkpogo.com/park/liberty_station_ntc_park

photo: Jeannette Swanson

2. Silver Terrace Park
This park is a little gem, and when we say little we mean don’t blink or you might miss it! On Friars Rd. close enough to hear the trolley rumble past, this park is entirely fenced in. The play structure is well kept and there’s plenty of grass for the kiddos run amuck. There’s a paved sidewalk for easy stroller access, and if you’ve got a sleeping babe you need not wake them while your older kids play thanks to the cozyness of the park.

Insider Tip: There are no restrooms and the parking lot is a tad small, so try to limit sippy time and plan on leaving a little early so you can look for parking in case the attached lot is full.

5550 Friars Rd.
San Diego, Ca
Online: sandiego.gov/park-and-recreation

photo: Melissa Heckscher

3. Kensington Mini Park
This park is for the family who appreciates smaller spaces (and a Starbucks just across the street!) The equipment is simple, but in a positive way that won’t overload your tots brain. This one is ideal for those in the neighborhood or for those who need a break from other too crowded playgrounds.

4121 Adams Ave.
San Diego, Ca
Online: parkpogo.com/kensington_mini_park

photo: Matt E. via Yelp

4. Nobel Park
Since this park often gets an overflow from the rec center next door, your littles are almost always guaranteed impromptu play dates. Most would consider this park to be divided into three areas that can stand on their own. There’s a spot for sand toys and digging, slides and playground equipment for younger kids as well as a separate set for the older crowd. A row of covered picnic tables sits between the playground, so bring a to-go breakfast or lunch to nosh on outdoors.

8810 Judicial Dr.
San Diego, Ca
858-552-1626
Online: sandiego.gov/park-and recreation/nobel

5. Jackson Park
This neighborhood park can be added to your itinerary on a day you’re planning to visit Grossmont Center or the Costco in La Mesa. Test drive a couple of cars and yield to the in-ground stop sign before proceeding. After your tots imagination has driven them at least three times around the faux Nascar circuit, make sure they climb out and stretch their legs as they zip down the slides. With all the shade supplied by the abundance of nearby trees, this is a must visit for our many months of warm weather.

5870 Jackson Dr.
La Mesa, Ca
Online: lamesaparks.org/parks/jackson-park/

6. 4S Heritage Park
This neighborhood park might look small in relation to the grassy area that wraps around it, but it’s surrounded by almost a complete circle of fencing. The large area of grass is actually a plus, since they have the option to frolic barefoot on the sweet green blades after being corralled in the entertaining play area. Although, it might be tough to get them to forfeit the wobbly bridge, twisting slide and peek-a-boo hole that beckons them to ask for just five more minutes.

16600 4S Ranch Pkwy.
San Diego, Ca
Online: sdparks.org 

photo: Jeannette Swanson

7. Western Hills Park
Just like NTC Park, this hidden park is not fenced in, but it makes the list because of its elevated location from the street and tucked away nature in general. Located in a quiet neighborhood in Bay Park, this one should make its way onto your calendars each Friday of the month if you’re in the area. Bay Park Connection hosts a weekly play date at this location and they generously bring a batch of coffee and donuts to fuel us and our mini play dates. Starting at 9:30 a.m. and going until the sugar rush has worn off, there’s plenty of companionship to be had here. Even if you can’t make the Friday play date, the safe location, expansive grassy area with a fence of trees and the trail that makes for a perfect mini hike, is enough to warrant a play trip here.

4800 Kane St.
San Diego, Ca
Online: yelp.com/biz/western-hills-park-san-diego

photo: Richard G. via Yelp

8. West Hills Park
This smaller Santee playground receives light foot traffic during the week and a fence that’s only one panel short of being entirely enclosed. This one might be the East County equivalent of NTC Park, since it also has a separate structure for the older jungle gym lovers. There’s even a bright blue whale on springs that your beach lover can bounce around in and pretend they’re actually minutes from the water.

8790 Mast Blvd.
Santee, Ca
Online: ci.santee.ca.us

9. Kroc Center Playground
This playground not only stands out because of its vibrant purple color scheme, but its design was inspired by many local tot artists. The playground sits between an athletic field and the gymnasium and sits in the shade in the late afternoons. While the park is only accessible to members, it’s a wonderful resource for its members and to area families. The park can either be the focal point of your day or it can be a quick jaunt after a scheduled activity at the center.

6845 University Ave.
San Diego, Ca
619-287-5762
Online: sd.kroccenter.org

photo: Jeannette Swanson

10. Mills Park
While this playground is only open to those with access to MCAS Miramar, its smaller size is very welcoming to new moms or moms with multiple kiddos. This fenced in playground has a nice slice of shade that’s provided by a canopy and it makes for a nice sitting spot with baby while you watch your older ones play. On the way in or the way out, consider getting a cup of coffee at Dunkin’ Donuts. After all it’s one of the rare five in the San Diego area!

MCAS Miramar
Bauer Rd.
San Diego, Ca
Online: mccsmiramar.com/mills-park/

11. MCRD Bay View Marina Park
This fully fenced-in, ADA approved playground by the marina is a dream come true for kids and parents alike. There’s a Marine-themed vehicle and a variety of obstacle-themed structures to give them a tactical experience. There’s also a soft turf here that will appeal to the little movers who prefer not to have sand in their shoes. To round out the day, walk around the marina before heading home. But like the park above, this one is only open to those with base access, so consider making a date out of this with one of your military gal friends.

MCRD San Diego Boathouse & Marina
2221 Guadalcanal Ave.
San Diego, Ca
Online: mccsmcrd.com/boathouse-marina/

What are your favorite fenced in parks? Let us know in the comments!

—Jeannette Swanson

 

 

Don’t think cold and snow yet: You can still swing, slide and climb your way through fall. Especially now that there’s a brand new park and playground to explore. The Chicago Park District has just opened Park 574 in the near West Community area, just five minutes from Garfield Park Conservatory. The destination park has a rolling landscape and lots (we mean lots) of bells and whistles.

The Lay of the Land
Park 574 sits on the previously vacant 2.27-acre site adjacent to the Chicago Housing Authority’s (CHA) Rockwell Gardens development. The new park was part of a land exchange with the CHA in 2008. It’s a stomping ground for neighborhood kids and has lures you don’t find at the average park (a zip line, a 22-foot-long slide), making it worth the trip if you are coming from other parts of town.

Features like stepping-tone stools are great for the preschool crowd. There are also plenty of challenging pieces of play equipment, including multiple climbing features, pommel horses and rings. The topography itself stands out — kids can pad safely across rubberized soft surfacing that goes on an incline. Trot to the top for sweeping views of the playscape below before whizzing down the mega-slide. The slide is wide enough for grownups to tackle and, we admit, it’s tempting.

Around the Playground
Once you’ve gotten your monkey business taken care of, explore the park’s one-mile walking trail that has multiple fitness equipment stations along the way. There’s also a natural stone spray feature and a large open lawn area that can be used for concerts, picnics and other park activities.

If you’re looking for year ’round activities, drop by nearby Skinner Park for after-school programs, a gymnasium, open basketball and badminton nights, and an indoor swimming pool where you can take lessons.

Will you drop by this new park? What other local parks do you love? Let us know in the Comments!

Park 574
Open daily, 6 a.m.-11 p.m.
2540 W. Jackson Blvd.
Garfield Park
312-746-5560
Online: chicagoparkdistrict.com

— Kelly Aiglon

While school is starting back for bigger kids, Atlanta’s smaller set is looking to class things up as well. From  Mommy-and-me music to partner-with-your-peanut-pilates, read on for a primer in the best baby classes to enjoy with your wee one.

Sarah’s School of Fish
With a Baby & Me program that focuses on safety skills for both parent and kiddo, Sarah’s School of Fish starts ‘em young at 3 months old. For $100 a month, you and the babe get weekly instruction on water safety and early swimming skills. When you’re ready to move to the next level, Sarah’s offers both individual and group lessons, as well.

Details: Sarah’s School of Fish, 1318 Concord Rd., Smyrna, 770-434-6914

Gymboree Play & Learn
You know you’ve been dying to put that baby in the velour track suit your great aunt Edna sent you. Go ahead. With Gymboree, babies younger than 6 months can enroll in the sensory class, and kids aged 6-10 months get to tumble around on slides, ramps, and climbers. The good news: Gymboree offers classes for every stage and age up to 5 years old, so the older sibs won’t feel left out.

Details: Gymboree Play & Learn, 4920 Roswell Rd., Sandy Springs, 404-256-2223, Infant classes: $77/ month and a $50 new member initiation fee (Check online for coupons)

Jump Start Gymnasium
Brace yourself: babies aged 3 months to crawlers can attend FREE Moving Monkeys classes, focused on music and movement with your babe. Be ready to pay the $30 annual fee however, but don’t worry- after your wee one starts to crawl (early, because he’s a genius), Jump Start offers classes all the way up to the fifth grade.

Details: Jump Start Gymnasium, 5920 Roswell Rd. Suite C-208, 404-252-JUMP

Kindermusik
An oldie but goodie, Kindermusik’s curriculum focuses on developing much more than your baby’s taste in music. The Village and Cuddle and Bounce Classes are designed for the smallest set (newborn to age 18 months and 1 year, respectively), and incorporate dance, instrument play, and together time.

Details: Kindermusik, Multiple locations, First class is free and prices vary afterwards by location

The Learning Groove
Created by duo who brought us the first four Pete the Cat picture books, The Learning Groove is a holistic approach to music education and child development. And it’s fun. Get your groove on at one of several locations playing host to a Learning Groove Parent & Child class. Typically completed over 10 weeks, TLG classes include CDs of the music you jam to in class for home-based reinforcement. Prices vary by location and instructor.

Details: The Learning Groove, Multiple locations

My Gym
Guess what? My Gym offers more than killer kiddo birthday bashes. It also offers classes for babies aged 7 months and older, and its parent and child classes (ages 7 months to 13 months) focus on building strength and improving motor skills.

Details: My Gym, 267 West Wieuca Rd. NE Suite 101, 404-252-1201, $99 per month includes one class and unlimited free play, Sibling discounts available

Oh Baby! Fitness
If the thought of clapping to the beat or waving multicolored flags while marching through foam balls leaves you cold, you might want to consider one of the mom and baby classes offered through Oh Baby! Fitness. Classes resemble adult classes, but trained instructors incorporate movement and play for babies, too. The Mom & Baby Pilates workout is legit, and we hear that the Stroller Workout will leave your muscles aching and screaming for more.

Details: Oh Baby! Fitness, Multiple locations, Prices vary by class

What is your favorite baby class in Atlanta?

—Shelley Massey

Photos courtesy of Sarah’s School of Fish, Oh! Baby Fitness, My Gym Buckhead, JumpStart, Kindermusik and The Learning Groove via Facebook, Lori F. via Yelp

 

 

Join The Marin Parent’s of Multiples at the largest Family Garage Sale in Marin! MPOMC’s annual Garage Sale features a variety of high-quality used items including maternity apparel, baby and children’s clothes (from infant to approximately age six), infant and toddler gear, toys, furniture and much more! Saturday June 11th, 8am 12pm, half price sale 1pm – 2pm.  Marin Catholic Gymnasium, 675 Sir Francis Drake Blvd., Kentfield.  For more info, visit http://www.mpomc.org/garage_sale.

Please note that the SNOMOMS sale will be held at a new location.  We are happy to say that we have secured space in the Gymnasium of Edmonds Community College.  The floor space is more than double the size of our former location and we expect shopping to be much more enjoyable.  There is plenty of free parking on the schools’ campus for all.

SNOMOMS Fall Clothing & Equipment Sale
Saturday November 7th, 2009
Open to the public from 8:30AM-12PM
Location: Edmonds Community College ~ Gymnasium
200000 68th Ave W
Lynnwood, WA 98036
Payment: Cash & checks* only. (*local, non-business with ID upon request)