Saying thank you to a mail carrier is an easy and thoughtful way to share the holiday spirit with others
Through snow and rain, heat, and gloom of night, your local mail carriers deliver your letters and packages directly to your door (or at least your nearest mailbox). And, during the season of goodwill and cheer, they deserve major props. From mail carrier thank you cards to gifts for mail carriers, here are six ways to thank your mail carrier. The best part? All of these are easy for kids and fun, too (think baking cookies!).
Write a letter!
USPS
Even if you don't know your mail person by name, you can still address them in a general way, such as "Our Favorite Mailman" or "Our Faithful Carrier." A simple note that says how much you appreciate the hard work they do (extra cute if your kids can write it out) will go a long way in making your postal worker feel special. Put it in an envelope and use stickers instead of stamps. (After all, they love mail, right?) You can also nab this free, downloadable template if you need a little help!
As always, a thank you card is a lovely gesture. Let the kids draw a little picture or get creative or use a printable like this one to make a little note to attach to the flag of your mailbox. If you can afford it, add a $10 or $15 gift card for somewhere like Amazon or a nearby coffee shop in the envelope. Be sure and do something OBVIOUS to make it clear it's not a regular piece of mail.
Include a Gift Card
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If you can afford it, add a $10 or $15 gift card to somewhere like Target or a nearby coffee shop with the letter or the card. Be sure and do something obvious to make it clear it's not a regular piece of mail. Mail carriers are not legally allowed to accept single gifts valued at over $20 so keep that in mind.
A thoughtful gift (again, under $20) is another simple way to let them know you're thinking of them. Consider things like warm gloves, an insulated mug, cozy socks, or a new water bottle.
Bake Something Special
iStock
Leave cookies in the box or on the doorstep with a clearly marked sign. Be sure to seal them in something, even a ziplock or paper bag decorated with stickers works, and attach a note that says thanks! It's a good idea to list the ingredients in case of allergies or food sensitivities.
Say It Out Loud
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Shout it out! If you're home when the mail comes, be sure to say, "Thank you!" Get the kids in the habit of saying it, too. You can always throw open a window and shout it out. A little gesture of kindness and gratitude like this can go a long way on a long day.
From donating goods to volunteering your time, these are the best places around DC to make a difference as a family
Play Santa this season by checking off the wish lists of these local non-profits (plus one neighborhood group). You’ll help bring holiday cheer to those in need while also modeling empathy, kindness and generosity to your kids. There are so many ways to empower the local community this December, from donating goods, volunteering services or even making a monetary contribution. Whether you choose to spend time with struggling students in Ward 5, support sick kids with holiday gifts, or empower homeless teens with gift cards, donating to these local organizations will help make the holiday season a little brighter for those in need (and might just boost your family’s joy!).
Dr. Bear's Closet at Children's National Hospital Bring holiday cheer to hospital-bound children this Dec. by donating gift cards and new toys, books and games. Shop the hospital registry here to choose a gift that will be shipped directly to Dr. Bear's Closet. The hospital is collecting holiday donations now through Dec. 23 (but donations are accepted year round, so don't worry if you miss the holiday window).
District of Columbia Public Schools DCPS (District of Columbia Public Schools) is currently seeking items to support in-classroom instruction, like computers, art supplies and white boards. You can direct your donation towards your local school, or contact DCPS to find the schools most in need. You can also make a monetary donation here.
DC Diaper Bank Helping babies is the number one mission of the DC Diaper Bank. Diapers, newborn necessities, nursing supplies, hygiene products and more are all collected to empower and change lives of babies living at or below the poverty line. DC Diaper Bank collects more than just diapers, you can also donate new carseats, strollers, diaper bags and other nursery needs. Stock the Bank's pantry by donating formula, wipes, diaper cream and more.
Beacon House Serving over 400 children in Ward 5, Beacon House aims to close the educational gap and help Edgewood students achieve their greatest potential. Like a "beacon" of light guiding students to graduate from high school and pursue secondary-education, this non-profit embodies the spirit of a "lighthouse" for neighborhood kids. Donate your time and talents to help Edgewood youth; this organization is always seeking volunteers to help with their many educational programs. You can also make a monetary contribution here. For material good donations, contact the organization to get a list of their current needs.
Partners for Kids in Care Partners for Kids in Care supports children and youth in foster care and at-risk families in DC’s welfare system. Donate new or gently used clothes, games, toiletries and linens to the Children's Donation Center where teens, youth and families can shop free for their personal needs.
Mobile Hope Mobile Hope has been empowering at-risk youth in Loudoun County since 2011. This organization supports teens and young adults (up to 24) with shelter, clothing, food, transportation and more. You can support Mobile Hope's annual toy drive by shopping their Amazon wish list here. Mobile Hope also accepts food, clothing, shoes, diapers and more year round.
Martha’s Table This group has worked for 35 years to support children, families and the community at large in the DC area. Volunteer your time and become one of the 16,000 volunteer who help with food, clothing and special events every year. This organization is currently accepting beans, canned vegetables, whole grain crackers, pasta and more (for a full list, go here). Martha's Table also accepts new and gently-used clothes for adults and children.
So Others Might Eat For over 50 years, So Others Might Eat (S.O.M.E.) has been serving the DC"s homeless community and those experiencing extreme poverty since 1970. This interfaith organization offers transitional housing, access to medical care, career training, and an open door policy to those that need a hot shower, a meal or food pantry items. S.O.M.E. is currently collecting food, clothing, hygiene items and household goods. You can view their Amazon wishlist here.
A Wider Circle A Wider Circle provides basic need items to families transitioning out of homelessness or leaving domestic abuse situations. Their goal is to help families get a fresh start with dignity and hope. A Wider Circle accepts gently used baby essentials, like strollers, highchairs, changing tables, Pack ‘n Plays, car seats, infant and toddler clothing and cribs as well as any household items you might need to start a new home (think pots and pans, desks and children's toys).
Shelter House This nonprofit serves two shelters for families and one for victims of domestic violence in Fairfax County, VA. Needs are greatest for toiletries, gift cards, diapers and wipes, baby bottles and more.
Carpenter’s Shelter Serving more than 600 homeless and formerly homeless children and adults each year, this shelter serves people in need in the city of Alexandria. They’re looking for in-kind donations of food, toiletries and miscellaneous items such as air mattresses, dish and bath towels, and SmarTrip cards.
Bethesda Cares This community outreach program for the homeless provides food, clothing and psychiatric services, and helps put a roof over the heads of people in the streets. Bethesda Cares accepts food, clothing or toiletries. During the winter, coats for adults are especially needed.
GreenDrop As the name implies, you can drop used goods at a number of freestanding donations boxes across the DMV, but this service will also come to you! Schedule a pick up and let GreenDrop haul away your bags (and bags!) of used clothes, toys, appliances, small furniture and more. GreenDrop sells your goods and you choose where they donate the profits (pick from organizations like the American Red Cross, Military Order of the Purple Heae or the National Federation of the Blind).
Various Drop-Off Locations around MD and VA or schedule a pick-up Online:gogreendrop.com
The Buy Nothing Project Post items on your local Buy Nothing group that no longer bring you joy and brighten up the day of one of your neighbors (they simply scoop up your goods from your doorstep). These groups aren't just limited to used goods; you can also share your time and talents. Whether you're a notary public or an online tutor, you can offer your services free-of-charge to help those that could not otherwise afford them. Want to be on the receiving end of your neighbors' generosity? You can also request things from your personal wish list with one simple rule: money never changes hands.
Bikes for the World Let's think about the tricycles and bikes that may be crowding your hallway or tiny garage. A great organization that can help you to get rid of some of those bikes is Bikes for the World. Bikes for the World is a nonprofit humanitarian organization and volunteer network that collects thousands of used bicycles, as well as bike parts and tools, and delivers them to community programs around the world. Recently, they worked with BikeMatch DC to deliver bikes to essential workers during COVID. They also distribute bikes to area youth through an earn-a-bike program. So get to pedaling over to the Bikes for the World Warehouse. You can donate at anytime to any participating bike shop or find out when the local warehouse (address below) is hosting a bike drive.
From spectacular Santa experiences to low-key Santas in a mall, we’ve got all the details on the best places to take photos with Santa in LA all month long
Your holidays are in full swing: You’ve picked out the perfect Christmas tree nearby, gone to see the best holiday lights in Los Angeles, and you’ve started shopping for presents at the best toy stores in LA. What’s left to do but take some photos with Santa? Ok, yes, you can still catch a showing of The Nutcracker or start some holiday cooking, but before you hit the theater or the kitchen, check out these memory-making spots to take photos with Santa in LA. While a snowy holiday isn’t likely here, having a cool picture with the big guy himself will certainly get you in the Christmas spirit.
For an all-out festive affair, head up to SkyPark at Santa's Village where the whole village comes into its own and lights up for a jolly good time. From breakfast with Santa to tea with Mrs. Claus, you can get as little or as much Santa in your life as you want. For photo-ops, make a reservation online to save your spot and prevent disappointments. Of course, that's not all—there's ice skating and a dazzling light show that takes place at the park as well.
Visiting Santa at the ocean-adjacent Santa Monica Place’s Center Plaza is a great excuse to not just get that priceless photo-op but also the chance to finish some last-minute holiday shopping and hit up one of our favorite museums for kids in LA—Cayton Children's Museum. Photos with the big guy require reservations but are free—although photo packages are available for purchase.
For this extra-special Santa visit, kids will embark on a journey to the North Pole, where they'll help Santa plan his big trip, check out Santa's carriage, head to Mrs. Claus' bakery (sweet treat included) and then finally, over to Santa's Bungalow for a private, one-on-one photo session in his living room.
Dates: Nov. 25-Dec. 24 (Fri.-Sun. until Dec. 18, and then daily Dec. 19-24); Times vary
If you're searching for a live Christmas tree, why not get a two-for-one by heading to Underwood Family Farms where Santa makes a special appearance over four weekends this year. Not only that, admission includes tractor rides, animal shows and holiday photo ops. Plus, they've added reindeer to the mix and make their special appearances on Dec. 10, 11, 17 and 18.
Of course The Grove has a gorgeous tree covered with thousands of twinkling lights and a nightly "snowfall" at 7 p.m. and 8 p.m., but you can also book a meet-and-great with Santa (and get those professional photos to boot). Don't miss some of the fun shopping pop-ups happening here as well—The Netflix Store is a must for superfans of Stranger Things, Bridgerton, Emily Goes to Paris, Enola Holmes 2, and more.
Breakfast with Santa Benefitting St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital
Head to the Food Court in Santa Monica place for a special, family-fun event filled with kid-friendly activities including crafts, face-painting, special musical performances, and snacks along with an appearance by Santa Claus. A reservation will be required for this event.
Good to Know: In lieu of ticket sales they are asking for a $5 donation to St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital per child (over the age of 1) for attendance.
Did you know that Santa is a avid scuba diver? When the holiday season rolls around, he can be seen swimming with the sea life (and feeding them treats) inside exhibits at the Aquarium of the Pacific. That's right: Jolly Old Saint Nick puts on his flippers and gets aquatic for Christmas, and you can pose for pictures with him while he's underwater. Check with the aquarium about the times he's expected to appear.
This breakfast buffet is full of jolly good times thanks to Santa and his elves creating a festive atmosphere that's hard to beat. In addition getting your photo with the big guy, you'll feast on a breakfast buffet that will leave you as puffed as the big guy, plus a reindeer antler making station for a fun takeaway. Check out why our editor's love spending a weekend here during their Holiday Happenings!
Make a fun day out getting your yearly Santa photo in LA at an outdoor party where carolers and singing madrigals roam the grounds and people tell winter holiday stories from a variety of traditions including Christmas, Hanukkah, and Kwanza. In the midst of the holiday festivities at Will Geer’s Theatricum Botanicum's second annual Holiday Family Faire, Santa and Mrs. Claus will appear for family photo ops. Enjoy Yuletide entertainment and shop for holiday gift and crafts at the artisan marketplace while you wait your turn to pose.
Date: Dec. 10; 11-5 p.m.
1419 N. Topanga Canyon Blvd. Topanga Online:theatricum.com
Have your pictures with Santa and eat with him, too. He'll visit from the North Pole to enjoy a magical breakfast in the ballroom of the Terranea Resort offering a kids buffet, various hot food, bakery and waffle stations. If that's not enough, there's also festive crafts to keep your hands busy while you wait for your photo.
Date: Dec. 17; seatings at 9 a.m., 9:30 a.m., and 10 a.m.
100 Terranea Way Rancho Palos Verdes Online: terranea.com
Hiking with Santa: Family Christmas Hike
If the thought of waiting in another long mall line with wiggly wee ones to get a picture with St. Nick isn't a jolly one, try an experience that is a bit more off the beaten path. Join Santa and his helpers on a 2.5-mile family Christmas hike around Ascott Hills Park, which is just east of DTLA. Here you can get some photos of your brood with the big guy against a Los Angeles city backdrop while getting some fresh air and exercise to boot. With free parking, free admission and views for days, this could be that unique holiday event you and the fam have been craving. There are limited spots available so make sure to reserve your spots sooner than later.
Autism Speaks invites all children within all spectrums of special needs and their families to gather before the mall opens for a sensory-friendly event to experience the time-honored tradition of a visit and photos with Santa. Reservations recommended.
Date: Dec. 4; Times vary but most start at 9 or 9:30 a.m.
The back-to-school season can be one of the most hectic times of any family’s year. Sliding off of summer and into a new routine doesn’t come easy, and the list of what you need to do and buy can even seem overwhelming. Set yourself up for success by working ahead. Here are three easy things you can start now that will take a little of the back-to-school stress off your back.
Buy Supplies Gradually
Back-to-school time can put a dent in your household budget in a hurry. While you may not know your child’s exact classroom supply list or shoe size (they grow so fast) months in advance, there are certain things you know that you buy every year. Get a bin and label it “Back to School 2022-23” and buy a few things here and there.
Think about things big and small, such as:
No. 2 Pencils; sandwich bags; a backpack; socks; a lunchbox; crayons, markers or colored pencils; teacher gifts; hand sanitizer; tissues.
Book Appointments Early
Most kids get a physical once a year near their birthday but before school starts there are a handful of appointments you will want to have lined up in advance for the month or two before the first day, including vaccines, dental exams and eye exams.
One big reason to schedule your child’s eye exam: Myopia, whose primary symptom is blurry distance vision, is on the rise—in both frequency and severity.1 Earlier detection means earlier treatment.MiSight® 1 day soft contact lenses are the first and only soft contact lenses designed for myopia control and FDA approved* to slow the progression of myopia in children, aged 8 to 12 at the initiation of treatment.2† Practicing during the summer will give your little one time to prepare for putting in their contacts during the school year, but in a clinical study, MiSight® 1 day was easy for children to remove from the start: 97% found lens removal easy at one week, improving to 100% by one month!³
Practice Your Route
Whether you’re going to drive every day, take the bus or they will be walking, familiarize your kids, and yourself, with the route to school. This can be especially critical if changing schools, such as the leap from preschool to elementary or elementary to middle school.
If you’re going to walk: Use it as an excuse to do a family stroll. It doesn’t matter what day or time you walk, at first it’s just about getting used to the things you’ll see. Talk about landmarks and observe things that will make the children see it as a pleasurable experience. As you get even closer to back-to-school time, start the walk closer to the actual commute time to adjust to the soon-to-be routine.
If you’re driving: Start driving the route now and again for fun. Pick out songs that will be morning and afternoon commute songs. Hand the kids a stopwatch and have them time the route. Talk about the things you see outside, and how they change over the seasons.
If they’re taking the bus: If it’s possible, try to drive the bus route. Make it a regular activity, and again, ask the kids what they see out the window. Say things like, “When you’re on the school bus, what will you see at this corner?” This can help reduce anxiety when they actually get on the bus. Pretend to be the driver and enforce bus rules.
If you don’t have access to a car, pretend-play the bus scenario. Even if your children have taken the bus before, acting out the school bus trip can be an anxiety-reducing activity to throw in the mix a few times over the spring and summer before the next school year. Take turns being the driver, put on backpacks and play-act climbing on the bus. Make a game of it!
Of course, going back to school will be different for each child, but whenever possible it will benefit everyone to think ahead in terms of what you need physically, and mentally, to be prepared for a brand new year.
Indications and Important Safety Information.
Rx only
Results may vary.
ATTENTION: Reference the Patient Information Booklet for a complete listing of Indications and Important Safety Information. *Indication: MiSight® 1 day (omafilcon A) soft (hydrophilic) contact lenses for daily wear are indicated for the correction of myopic ametropia and for slowing the progression of myopia in children with non-diseased eyes, who at the initiation of treatment are 8-12 years of age and have refraction of -0.75 to -4.00 diopters(spherical equivalent) with 0.75 diopters of astigmatism. The lens is to be discarded after each removal. Warnings: Problems with contact lenses could result in serious injury to the eye. Do not expose contact lenses to water while wearing them. Under certain circumstances MiSight® lenses optical design can cause reduced image contrast/ghosting/halo/glare in some patients that may cause difficulties with certain visually demanding tasks. Precautions: Daily wear single use only. Patient should always dispose when lenses are removed. No overnight wear. Patients should exercise extra care if performing potentially hazardous activities. Adverse events: Including but not limited to infection/inflammation/ulceration/abrasion of the cornea, other parts of the eye or eyelids. Some of these adverse reactions can cause permanent or temporary loss of vision. If you notice any of the stated in your child, immediately have your child remove the lenses and contact your eye care professional.
†Compared to a single vision 1 day lens over a 3 year period.
1 4 Holden BA, et al. Global Prevalence of Myopia and High Myopia and Temporal Trends from 2000 through 2050. Ophthalmology. 2016;123(5):1036-42.
2 Chamberlain P, et al. A 3-year randomized clinical trial of MiSight® lenses for myopia control. Optom Vis Sci. 2019; 96(8):556-567.
³ Children new to contact lens wear aged 8-12 Sulley A et al, Wearer experience and subjective responses with dual focus compared to spherical, single vision soft contact lenses in children during a 3-year clinical trial. AAO 2019 Poster Presentation
No matter how careful you are, parenting means it’s impossible to avoid the occasional worrisome scenario. While most parents tote a basic first aid kit, doctors recommend carrying these 12 items to treat wounds and stop bleeding if you find yourself too far from a medical professional, as well as preventative items such as sunscreen and hand sanitizer.
Hand Sanitizer
Zoey Naturals
Unless you're hiding under a rock, you can't go a day without hearing another Coronavirus aka Covid-19 update. You've also probably heard the best way to prevent the spread of any illness is frequen, thorough handwashing (for at least 20 seconds) and healthy dose of hand sanitizer. If you're concerned about the chemicals in some sanitizer, we recommend Zoey Naturals, which is baby-safe and paraben, sulfate and phthalate free, while still killing 99% of germs. Hello Bello also makes a hand-sanitizing spray (not recommend for babies but great for kids). We also like Clean & Well's disinfecting wipes for surfaces.
(Editor's note:, at the time of this writing all products were in stock).
It may seem like the only time to keep sunscreen within hands reach is during the summer, but it actually comes in handy in the case of an emergency, too. If you find yourself injured on a trail or even stranded on the side of the road from car issues, slathering on the protective cream will prevent an undue sunburn and one less thing to worry about.
While it may seem scary to have a survival knife in your back pocket, it definitely can come in handy. Cut gauze or bandages, fashion a walking stick in a pinch, or cut away brush. A knife is no laughing matter, but it can save your life in an emergency. Be sure to keep it far away from small hands and fingers. This one's for grown-ups only.
You never know when you'll incur a scratch, bite or cut while out hiking or camping, and that's why keeping a stash of gauze is a great idea. Use it to clean wounds, staunch bleeding or to cover from the elements. Gauze is a clean and breathable material you can't afford not to have when heading out for an adventure.
Apply pressure to wounds and keep them clean and bandaged with elastic wrap bandages. They are a small in size, but can take care of a multitude of injuries, from sprained ankles to keeping gauze in place. Take it one step further and purchase self-adhering bandages like these from Amazon and you can rest easy until you can find a doctor for treatment.
Serious injuries never happen when we expect them, but preparation can save lives. Keeping a tourniquet on hand can do just that––not only save a loved ones life from a serious bleeding injury but also give you piece of mind. You don't need to worry about tearing a strip of fabric or tying it tight enough––purchase a simple medical tourniquet and let it do all the work for you!
Getting separated from your tour group or being hindered by the elements can mean an unexpected longer time in the wilderness. Protect your family against hunger-related issues by packing simple protein food pouches that can be eaten on the run. They are quick to prepare and contain wholesome ingredients to keep you fueled and ready to press on towards home.
Finding drinkable water in the natural elements can be difficult, and that's why keeping a bottle of water purification tablets is a must. The iodine tablets purify contaminated water in 30 minutes, killing off bacteria. Staying hydrated while in the great outdoors and injured is key––this product is a no-brainer! Check out these leak-proof water bottles for you next excursion.
In case you end up staying out longer than expected, always keep a flashlight with fresh batteries on hand. Whether you're handling an injured family member or are just exhausted from a long day out with the kids and its getting dark, you can never go wrong with a flashlight in your day back or car trunk. (Also handy for playing flashlight games f you're bored).
Keep loved ones who are injured and in shock warm when you keep foil blankets on hand. They are tiny––only the size of a credit card when folded up—and can be easily carried in purses, diaper bags or backpacks without any added weight. They are great for disaster kits and perfect for keeping in your car if you encounter a car accident or other scenario when someone needs a blanket to stay warm.
Lower fevers, relieve bug bites and treat swollen limbs with an instant cold pack. Carry in your backpack and snap to start the chemical reaction that makes these ice packs cold. No need to freeze in advance, and no melting bags of ice!
When it comes to art, kids want it to be bold, colorful and larger-than-life. From the moment you step through the sunflower-adorned doorway into Boston’s Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience, that’s what you’ll find. It’s a sensory-igniting lesson in art appreciation that was made for 21st century families. Wondering if you should visit? Here’s what you need to know.
1. Kids Can Learn about Van Gogh
By the time you exit the experience, you’ll have seen nearly 300 digital projections of Van Gogh’s sketches, drawings and paintings, but it all starts with learning about Van Gogh’s life, influences and recognizable technique. We recommend downloading the app to get the most out of the exhibit rooms that focus on the artist. Wall placards aside, the QR codes take visitors to historical tidbits, personal notes and other intriguing facts and puts them in the palm of your hand. Plus, handing your device off to your little art lover (a.k.a. the official code scanner) gives kids a way to interact during this (mostly) static part of the experience.
2. Kids Become Part of the Art
Kids will love the 3-D effects they’ll find along the way, too, like Van Gogh’s head and The Vases. When they make it to The Bedroom at Arles, they can sit in the painting and pose for parents. And if you’re wondering what the light cameras on the ground are for, they guide visitors to the perfect spot to take Insta-worthy shots.
3. It's a Full-Sensory Experience
The most talked about part of the experience is the 360-room. A sensory-igniting area, it's the place where floor-to-ceiling animated art projections allow families to “step into a living painting.” Beyond the visual effects that make sunflowers float to the ceiling, crabs crawl across walls and wagons mosey along haystack-lined roads, kids will love the sound effects, music and playful floor projections that draw in Van Gogh fans of all ages.
While parents and big kids will appreciate sitting down on nearby benches and chairs to listen to the narration, tots will love the freedom of the space. They can chase the floor projections, darting from one spot to the next, as scenes change. Tiny dancers will love strutting their stuff when the music starts and the spirit moves them. But kids may also enjoy finding a seat and marveling at the spectacle that surrounds them.
4. Turning Inspiration into Art is Easy
If being surrounded by Van Gogh’s visually stunning creations has you itching to create something yourself, there’s an area to sit down and do just that beyond the immersive room. Here kids and parents can color one of Van Gogh’s famous works of art, adding their own touches. Finally! Time to sit and color with your kiddo. Crayons and hand sanitizer are the tools at your disposal. When you’re finished, project your work into a digital frame at the “Paint with Vincent” station. Kids can line up the picture, press the red button and watch their work magically appear on the screen in front of them. What a thrill! Take your artwork home or hang it on the wall for others to enjoy.
5. Families Can Take a Virtual Walk with the Artist
The final piece of the experience is the VR presentation of “A Day in the Life of the Artist.” Once you put on the headset, you’ll be transported to the French countryside where a simple stroll turns into a learning experience. It’s a chance to hear intriguing stories behind some of Van Gogh’s most iconic paintings. The VR experience lasts 10 minutes, and is included in the VIP package. Families can also add it on day-of for $5 each. We’re guessing big kids will jump at the chance to try this out—because, VR. And if you’ve got younger kiddos with you, consider a tag team approach with your parenting partner—you definitely won’t be able to keep an eye on roaming kids with the headset on. The sets are recommended for kids ages 6 and up.
Parent Planning Tools:
1. Plan a little over an hour, give or take, for the experience. This will give you enough time to watch the presentation in the immersion room, sit and color for a while and then dive into the VR experience, without feeling too hurried.
2. If you want to avoid the crowds (and save some money too!), get tickets for a mid-week time slot.
3. The experience is super stroller-friendly so bring one along for antsy toddlers or non-walkers. Babies in carriers are easy too. Who knows—your little bundle may even sleep through the exhibit!
4. Remember to check out the COVID policies and cleaning protocols so you know what to expect when visiting with kids. Staying socially distant, wearing masks and hand sanitizer stations are all part of the protocol here.
When it comes to art, kids want it to be bold, colorful and larger-than-life. From the moment you step through the doors of the bright blue building that houses Seattle’s newest art exhibit, Van Gogh: The Immersive Experience, that’s what you’ll find. The oversized sunflowers that greet you at the door set the scene for this immersive art experience that was made for 21st century families. Wondering if you should visit? Here’s what you need to know.
Learn about Van Gogh
By the time you exit the experience, you’ll have seen nearly 300 digital projections of Van Gogh’s sketches, drawings and paintings, but it all starts with learning about Van Gogh’s life, influences and recognizable technique. We recommend downloading the app to get the most out of the first few exhibit rooms. Wall placards aside, the QR codes take visitors to historical tidbits, personal notes and other intriguing facts and puts them in the palm of your hand. Plus, handing your device off to your little art lover (a.k.a. the official code scanner) gives kids a way to interact during this (mostly) static part of the experience.
Kids will love the 3-D effects they’ll find along the way, too, like Van Gogh’s head and The Vases. When they make it to The Bedroom at Arles, they can sit in the painting and pose for parents. And if you’re wondering what the light cameras on the ground are for, they guide visitors to the perfect spot to take Insta-worthy shots.
Ignite All Your Senses
After walking through the first few rooms, it’s time for the big show. The 360-degree, floor-to-ceiling immersive room is where families can “step into a living painting.” Beyond the visual effects that make sunflowers float to the ceiling, crabs crawl across walls and wagons mosey along haystack-lined roads, kids will love the sound effects, music and playful floor projections that draw in Van Gogh fans of all ages.
While parents and big kids will appreciate lounging in the beach chairs listening to the narration, tots will love the freedom of the space. They can chase the floor projections darting from one spot to the next as scenes change. Tiny dancers will love strutting their stuff when the music starts and the spirit moves them. But kids may also enjoy finding a seat and marveling at the spectacle that surrounds them. We love the comfy rugs on the floor, too because they make sweet spots for tots to watch the show.
Turn Inspiration into Art
If being surrounded by Van Gogh’s visually stunning creations has you itching to create something yourself, there’s an area to sit down and do just that beyond the immersive room. Here kids and parents can color one of Van Gogh’s famous works of art, adding their own touches. Finally! Time to sit and color with your kiddo. Crayons and hand sanitizer are the tools at your disposal. When you’re finished, project your work into a digital frame at the “Paint with Vincent” station. Kids can line up the picture, press the red button and watch their work magically appear on the screen in front of them. What a thrill! Take your artwork home or hang it on the wall for others to enjoy.
Take a Virtual Walk with Van Gogh
The final piece of the experience is the VR presentation of “A Day in the Life of the Artist.” Once you put on the headset, you’ll be transported to the French countryside where a simple stroll turns into a learning experience. It’s a chance to hear intriguing stories behind some of Van Gogh’s most iconic paintings. The VR experience lasts 10 minutes, and is included in the VIP package. Families can also add it on day-of for $5 each. We’re guessing big kids will jump at the chance to try this out—because, VR. And if you’ve got younger kiddos with you, consider a tag team approach with your parenting partner—you definitely won’t be able to keep an eye on roaming kids with the headset on. The sets are recommended for kids ages 6 and up.
Parent Planning Tools:
1. Plan a little over an hour, give or take, for the experience. This will give you enough time to watch the presentation in the immersion room, sit and color for a while and then dive into the VR experience, without feeling too hurried.
2. If you want to avoid the crowds (and save some money too!), get tickets for a mid-week time slot.
3. The experience is super stroller-friendly so bring one along for antsy toddlers or non-walkers. Babies in carriers are easy too. Who knows—your little bundle may even sleep through the exhibit!
4. There are lots of public parking lots in the area, including at the exhibit building. Plan to pay anywhere from $3-$10 to park and plan on a short walk, depending on where you’re able to snag a spot.
5. Remember to check out the COVID policies and cleaning protocols so you know what to expect when visiting with kids. Staying socially distant, wearing masks and hand sanitizer stations are all part of the protocol here.
It goes without saying that teachers are some of the hardest working professionals out there. Not only are they wrangling and educating our kids five days a week, but they often pay for the supplies out of their own pocket. With a new school year upon us, we asked teachers what kind of items they can always use in the classroom and here’s their wishlist.
Disinfecting Wipes
We love these Lemi Shine wipes because they are bleach free, made with biodegradable ingredients and kills over 99.9% of bacteria and viruses.
Whether its having enough paper to print out worksheets or its used as a craft, teachers love having a stock of paper on hand. You can give the gift of paper easily on your next Target run by picking up a box for less than $20.
Hand Sanitizer
We've all come to value the importance of hand sanitizer the last year and a half––especially teachers. Help them stock up easily by grabbing a few extra bottles on your next Target or Walmart run, or order a huge bottle from Macy's to keep little hands clean.
Glue Sticks
For some reason, glue sticks are always in short supply, especially for kindergarteners! During back to school shopping, large packs are usually on big specials where you can snag 12 for less than $5. Your teachers will thank you!
Crayons
When you can find a pack of crayons for $4.99, why not shower your classroom with several boxes? Whether its for your kindergartener or fourth grader, crayons are always in high demand!
Paper Towels & Tissues
Spills, sneezes, messes, oh my! When it comes to paper supplies, school districts often shop quantity over quality––and can still run out. Teachers are always open to softer tissues and thicker paper towels if you can donate.
Single Color Packs of Construction Paper
Teachers will ALWAYS use packs of construction paper, but sometimes the most popular colors (like around holidays) aren't always in supply from the school stash. You can help by picking up a single color pack of larger sizes like 12x18 and gifting to teachers a month before the holiday approaches.
Treasure Box Items
We may not understand the draw of a sticky hand, but a full treasure box in the classroom is a huge help to teachers and students. Help your kiddos teacher with a donation of incentive items like fidgets, squishy toys and finger boards, all for less than $20.
Dry Erase Markers & Erasers
Little learners love to use small whiteboards in class, but erasers can either be terrible quality or in short supply. Grab a huge pack of pens and erasers on your next Amazon order to keep the dry erase fun going!
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation.
The airport is hands down one of the least convenient places to breastfeed. But with summer travel in full swing, new moms everywhere find themselves in challenging feeding situations. Fortunately, Mamava and Hello Bello are partnering to make moms’ lives easier!
The category creator of freestanding lactation spaces, Mamava has joined forces with Hello Bello, the premium baby products company co-founded by Kristen Bell and Dax Shepard. The duo has placed 11 Mamava ADA pods in post-security concourses at the busiest airports in the U.S. The pods are playfully designed with Hello Bello branding and stocked with the company’s hand sanitizer.
New moms will have a little extra piece of mind as they exit security and the collaboration also hopes to serve as a thought piece for travelers everywhere, prompting them to consider the logistics of breastfeeding in public. You can use the Mamava app to find one of these new pods, as well as one of the 1,800 plus existing Mamava pods at 63 airports. The app also allows you to check the vacancy status of a pod, adjust the airflow and even leave a digital note of support for the next person.
Stay tuned for more to come between the two brands! Hello Bello is currently offering 20% off diaper and wipe bundles for first time customers. Just use the code MAMAVA at checkout.
The Smithsonian is now on the list of attractions, organizations, and events that are set to reopen to the public again! After a year filled with closures galore, you can get ready to start planning a stellar summer vaycay—and it can include seven of the Smithsonian’s museums along with the National Zoo.
Over the course of May, all of the Smithsonian’s facilities will welcome back visitors on a staggered schedule. Keep reading to see when your local museum will open.
photo courtesy of the Smithsonian
May 5
The Sreven F. Udvar-Hazy Center
May 14
The National Museum of African American History and Culture
National Portrait Gallery
Smithsonian American Art Museum and its Renwick Gallery
May 21
National Museum of American History
National Museum of the American Indian Washington, D.C. location
National Zoo
Like other national attractions that have reopened to the public, the Smithsonian facilities will adhere to safety measures based on the CDC’s guidelines. These include requiring visitors ages two and older to wear face coverings, implementing social distancing and one-way directional paths, providing hand sanitizer, conducting enhanced cleanings and monitoring the number of visitors in each location. Guests are asked to stay home if they are sick or don’t feel well.
There are currently no on-site public tours and some galleries or exhibits are closed or have capacity limits. The restaurants and food trucks at the National Zoo will open this May, but the museum cafes will remain closed.
You must reserve a free timed-entry pass for all Smithsonian facilities. To reserve passes, contact the Smithsonian at 1-800-514-3849 ext. 1 or visit the organization’s website here. Passes are available starting the week before each facility’s opening.
