From magical dragon eggs to a no-sew mask, we’ve rounded up fun projects to make your little ones roar

They soar through your little adventurer’s imagination breathing fire, challenging knights of the realm, and guarding magical eggs against would-be thieves. In short, dragons are epic. And your half-pint can’t get enough of them. Indulge their fiery dreams with one of our favorite dragon crafts. And, since 2024 is the Year of the Dragon according to the lunar calendar, even more reason to break out the supplies and get crafty just in time for the Lunar New Year.

Geometric Shapes Dragon

This is the perfect dragon craft for preschoolers. You can cut out the shapes in advance and use other fun things to make each one unique.

Dazzling Dragon Egg

a cool dragon egg craft
Quite Frankly She Said

After you decorate dazzling dragon’s eggs, pretend to be Harry Potter whisking it out from under the Hungarian Horntail’s nose, while your Gryffindor team cheers you on. Get the details from Quite Frankly She Said.

Chinese Dragon Craft

a picture of a dragon craft
No Time for Flashcards

Bet you can’t guess what gives this Chinese dragon craft its scaly design. Find out at No Time for Flashcards, where easy step-by-step instructions walk you through this serpentine creation.

No-Sew Dragon Mask

no-sew dragon craft mask for kids
Lia Griffith

Cut and paste this adorable no-sew dragon mask that’ll transform your mini spitfire into one fierce fire-breather. Get the details from Lia Griffith.

Paper Plate Flying Dragons

a picture of a paper plate dragon craft
Pink Stripey Socks

Take to the skies when you engineer flying dragons. To complete this simple project, you need paper plates, paints or markers, and the downloadable template designed by Pink Stripey Socks. Print, cut, color, play!

Dragon's Eyes

a picture of painted dragon eyes
Allison Sutcliffe

Paint gleaming dragon’s eyes with this painless craft. We love the big payout this quick, arty activity has for tiny dragon lovers. To make your own, check out the how-to video from Our Peaceful Planet.

Related: 12 Easy Lunar New Year Projects for Kids

Toilet Paper Roll Dragon

Create a fire-breathing dragon with leftover toilet paper rolls. One Little Project spells out the need-to-know info to make this manually activated, monstrously fun craft.

Letter D Craft

No Time for Flashcards

Educate your preschoolers with this Dragon D craft. Designed by Allison at No Time for Flashcards, it’s as simple as A-B-C-D to make!

Dragon Hand Puppets

a picture of a cute dragon hand puppet
Ruffles and Rainboots

Colored construction paper is the main ingredient for this delightfully easy-to-put-together dragon hand puppet, designed by Sarah at Ruffles and Rainboots. We love these playful guys!

Origami Dragon Craft

This Origami dragon craft is easier than it looks! Check out this easy tutorial to get started.

Fire-Breathing Dragon Craft

Why not pair a reading session with your afternoon crafting time? Think Dragons Love Tacos, The Paper Bag Princess, or Don’t Wake the Dragon.

Huzzah! Spring has arrived in New York City. Which means things are about to shift into high gear all around town. (Flowers, festivals, big art to-dos, baseball, etc.) Read on for the biggest and best things to do with kids in NYC this season, from traditional favorites to new in 2022. Don’t forget to stop and smell the flowers—and consult our guide on where to find those spring blooms in NYC. (Want even more ideas for a specific day? Check out our New York Events Calendar!)

Hunt (or Eat) Some Eggs

Mimi O'Connor

Don't forget to gather some plastic or chocolate eggs at one of our favorite hunts around town—or indulge in a tasty brunch. Find our picks for both here! 

Visit Coney Island

Luna Park

It's too cold for the beach but the rides are hot! Luna Park opened for the season on April 2 and Deno's Wonder Wheel Amusement Park opens on April 10. While you're there, swing by the New York Aquarium (and its new "Spineless" exhibit), and then grab some legendary pizza at Totonno's

Head Out for An Urban Hike

Michelle Cohen

Hit The Highline, discover the Tribeca Boardwalk, seek out a waterfall in Prospect Park, and more. Find your city hike here! 

Go for a Stroller Hike

Amanda G. via Yelp

Go some wheels in the mix? No problem. Check out our list of the best places in NYC (and beyond) for stroller hikes

Be One of The First to See Dinosaur Safari at The Bronx Zoo

Julie Larsen Maher

This popular attraction, featuring a ride through a forest filled with animatronic dinos is back, and opening April 11. It's here until October 30. Read more info about visiting the Bronx Zoo here.

Get details on Dinosaur Safari here.

Visit a Petting Zoo

mom and child with a goat at Point Defiance Zoo petting farms and zoo
Dean Koepfler

If you want to get up close and personal with the animals, visit a petting zoo. Find our favorites (and lots of other places to talk to the animals big and small) here. 

Check Out a Visiting Museum Exhibit

Liberty Science Center

April showers? Time to head inside for some fun and cultural enrichment. The Whitney Biennial is in town. The Met's Part II of the Costume Institute's Anthology of Fashion opens. A toddler's dream, Wobbly World is at the Liberty Science Center, as are Minecraft and Paw Patrol exhibits. Those are just a few of the subjects of shows around town. Check out all the possibilities here.

Take a Day Trip

Gary L. via Yelp

You don't even have to leave New York City proper if you don't want to. Check out all our ideas for spring day trips from NYC with kids here. 

Celebrate Earth Day

iStock

Lots of events are happening around town to celebrate Mother Earth. 

Head to the Brooklyn Children's Museum for Earth Day activities during spring break week from April 16-24.  Event details here.

Head to Union Square for the return of the Earth Day Festival in Union Square on April 21. Event details here.

Or drop by Rockefeller Center's Spring Sunday on April 24 with Rock N Roll Playhouse, The Climate Museum, microgreen planting, bookmark making and more. Event details here.

 

Take a Ride on the Dream Wheel

A Large Ferris Wheel in New Jersey
American Dream

This mega Ferris wheel opens April 13. Hop into one of the cars for a 30-minute, climate-controlled ride offering spectacular views of the Manhattan skyline. (You can also stop by Deep Fried Love for concessions like deep-friend funnel cake, Twinkies and Oreos.

Get details here. 

Check Out the TILT Festival at FIAF

FIAF

The French Institute Alliance Française's TILT is back in person and dedicated to the natural world! Fun for all ages, Join them Saturday, April 30–Sunday, May 1, 2022 for an adventurous weekend of music, movement, and visual art with artists whose work connects us to plants, animals, and most of all, each other. Fun for all ages, highlights of the fest include live music (with People of Earth, shown here), interactive performances, a flower workshop, a Little Prince performance and the creation of an aquatic wonderland art project. 

Event details here. 

Go Play for Free at Street Games

Patricia Prudente via Unsplash

The city's celebration of good old-fashioned fun returns on April 30. Get there early for maximum time with the hula hoops, pogo sticks, lemon twists, double dutch, box cars and more! 

Click here for event details.

Taste the Rainbow at Smorgasburg

Simran K. via Yelp

Smorgasburg, the taste-tastic convocation of incredible food vendors of all kinds and cultures is back in a big way with openings at WTC (April 1), Jersey City (April 2) and Prospect Park (April 3). (Williamsburg opens in June.) Get the full Smorgasburg scoop here! 

Lace Up and Hit the Rinks

a pair of retro rollerskates in grass
Rodnae Productions via Pexels

You have a lot of choice on where you want to roll this spring.

The iconic rink at Rockefeller Center is going all-season with the opening of roller skating rink Flipper’s Roller Boogie Palace on April 15. The rink is inspired by Ian “Flipper” Ross' famed Los Angeles Rink of the same name, which opened in 1979. His daughter, Liberty Ross, is reviving the magic of the era by bringing it to The Rink at Rockefeller Center.

Click here for more info.

Out at JFK, find the groovy Roll-A-Rama Runway Rink at the TWA Hotel, which opens for the season on April 15. The 44-by-56 outdoor rink features vintage tunes and is open on weekends. Rentals of four-wheeled "quad skates" are included with every 50-minute skate session, which costs $20 per adult and $16 per child under 12. You can also bring your own skates.

Click here for more info.

And of course, the lovely LeFrak at Lakeside in Prospect Park is now open for the season. 

See the Latest Show at the Marionette Theatre

Jason P. via Yelp

It's a classic fairy tale adapted for true NYC kids. Wake Up, Daisy! A Modern Take On Sleeping Beauty tells the story of Daisy, a lively little girl living in the heart of New York City in an apartment overlooking Central Park. At Daisy’s much-anticipated birthday party, she encounters three special guests, known as her “Squad-parents”, from Brooklyn, Queens, and the Bronx, who grant her the gifts of courage, knowledge, and a second chance. When an unwelcome guest shows up and casts a curse on her, Daisy’s life is forever changed. But through the support of her friends and an adventure throughout the city, Daisy’s strong self-determination and vivid imagination may be all she needs to break the curse. The production is recommended for families with children ages 3 - 8.

Tickets: $8-12
Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre
Central Park
W. 79th St. and West Drive (Enter at w 81st St. and Central Park West)
Online: eventbrite.com

Check out NYC in full bloom.

Wikimedia cc

Here's where to find NYC's most impressive spring flower displays

—Mimi O’Connor

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Life is coming full circle when the technicolor dreams of Lisa Frank are back in style––and we’re more than ok with that. After Orly launched its nail wraps earlier this year, we are more than ready to indulge in a sweet treat, a la Lisa.

Pillsbury Lisa Frank Unicorn Shape Sugar Cookie Dough is a 20-pack of ready-to-bake sugar cookie dough. The best part? You don’t even have to bake the pink unicorn and star-printed treats, although we are positive they’d bake up to magical perfection.

photo: Pillsbury

Hitting the first time in the form of a refrigerated food item, the Lisa Frank cookies are only $2.67 but will be limited edition. Keep an eye out come mid-December, when they’ll start hitting shelves nationwide.

––Karly Wood

 

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It’s National S’mores Day! And we’re happy to report, you can celebrate with the kids, even if you’re not around the campfire in the middle of the forest We’ve got what you need to track down deliciously creative versions of this ooey-gooey treat right here in the city. From s’mores donuts to a molten cake, here’s where to get your s’mores fix today.

Zuri's Donutz

Zuri's Donutz via Instagram

When it comes to donuts as an art form, the folks at Zuri’s Donutz are master artists. Bite into their indulgent Trojan Smorez to taste your favorite campfire flavors (including a torched marshmallow) when your s’mores cravings hit. Wondering about its name? Well it’s totally gluten-free.

Hours: Thurs., 5-10 a.m., Fri.-Sun., 6 a.m.-2 p.m.

7600 196th St. S.W., #850
Lynnwood, WA
425-582-8803
Online: facebook.com/zurisdonutz

https://www.instagram.com/p/CQCPfoPtez7/?hidecaption=true

KJ’s Cakery Bakery Sweet Shop

KJ’s Cakery Bakery Sweet Shop via Instagram

There’s nothing low cal about the many sweets you’ll find at this south end bake shop. And there’s no limit to the creativity either. For a twist on the typical try a S’mores Thickums, a totally loaded cookie that’s soft on the inside and crisp on the outside. Or satisfy your sweet tooth with a S’mores Sammie—graham cracker buttercream sandwiched between two chocolate marshmallow cookies, rolled in graham cracker crust. Gotta love these kinds of touch choices.

Hours: Tues.-Sat., 11:20 a.m.-7 p.m.; Closed Sun. & Mon.

204 Central Ave. N., #101
Kent, WA
253-277-2516
Online: kjscakerybakery.com

New York Cupcakes

New York Cupcakes via Instagram

You may only be able to get this specialty cupcake on Saturdays, but trust us, it’s worth the wait. Baked with only homemade ingredients, New York Cupcakes’ Campfire S’mores includes a graham cracker crust, chocolate ganache-filled chocolate cake and a rim of marshmallow buttercream filled with toasted marshmallow meringue. We'll take two!

Hours: Mon.-Thurs., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.; Fri. & Sat., 10 a.m.-7 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.-5 p.m.

15600 N.E. 8th St.
Bellevue, WA
425-283-5445
Online: newyorkcupcakes.com

Hot Cakes

Bobby B. via yelp

If you like your s’mores served hot, you’re in luck! Hot Cakes’ S’mores molten cake is an individual chocolate cake topped with a roasted marshmallow. The ice cream and chocolate sauce are served on the side so your steaming hot cake doesn’t get soggy. Families can order this in gluten- and dairy-free options too, so everyone can enjoy.

Hours: Vary by location

Ballard
5427 Ballard Ave. N.W.
Seattle, WA
206-453-3792

Capitol Hill
1650 E. Olive Way
Seattle, WA
206-258-2591

Online: getyourhotcakes.com

Lady Yum

Mad M. via yelp

For a lighter take on the s’mores experience pick up a pack of Lady Yum’s S’mores macarons. Unlike most of Lady Yum macarons, the s’mores flavor contains gluten, but don’t let that stop you from biting into this flavorful cookie that’s just the right size. Our favorite part? The marshmallow hidden inside.

Locations in Seattle, Bellevue and Kirkland

866-499-1977
Online: ladyyum.com

Shug’s Soda Fountain & Ice Cream

Ryan D. via yelp

The fact that they torch the homemade marshmallows after they put them on the top makes this ice cream sundae extra gooey. Celebrate National S’mores Day with Shug’s original S’more Sundae. It’s a hard-to-beat treat on a summer day. Our suggestion? Grab spoons to share!

Hours: Thurs.-Mon., 1-8 p.m.

Pike Place Market
1525 1st Ave.
Seattle, WA
206-602-6420
Online: shugssodafountain.com

Hello Robin

Mohammad E. via yelp

For a s’mores treat that’s as homegrown as Macklemore himself, look no further than the Mackles’more from Hello Robin. Set atop a Graham Cracker, this gooey cookie features chunks of pure Theo Chocolate goodness and melty marshmallows. Order just the cookie or turn it into a sandwich that hugs your favorite Molly Moon ice cream flavor.

Hours: Vary by location

University Village
2570 N.E. University Village St.
Seattle, WA
206-397-3634

Capitol Hill
522 19th Ave. E.
Seattle, WA
206-735-7970

Online: hellorobincookies.com

Indulge Desserts

Indulge Desserts via yelp

Put this cupcake shop on your to-visit list when you visit the island of West Seattle. The s’more cupcake is everything it should be. With a toasted marshmallow frosting piled high on top of the chocolate-y cake, it’s the perfect balance of your favorite summer campfire flavors.

Hours: Tues.-Sat., 11 a.m.-7 p.m.; Closed Sun. & Mon.

9003 35th Ave. S.W.
Seattle, WA
206-428-8581
Online: indulgedessertsllc.com

—Allison Sutcliffe

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While most people are spending most of their time at home, it is important to practice self-care, especially when our normal routines have been upended–the little things that ground us in calm, peace, gratitude, and balance. Here are 9 self-care ideas for moms:

1. Get Dressed in the Morning
Being home all the time, it’s tempting to stay in t-shirts and leggings till bedtime. While comfort is important, wearing clothes that make you feel good really does contribute to boosting your mood. It doesn’t have to be a fancy dress (unless that’s your thing–then go for it!), but make your outfit choice a blend of comfort and st‌yle.

2. Take a Walk in the Fresh Air
Exercise is of paramount importance, especially when our usual routines and outings have been drastically reduced. Living a more sedentary lifestyle helps no one, and science has proven the positive psychological effects of both physical movement and spending time outdoors. Even a short 15-minute daily walk around the neighborhood will help you feel better, both physically and mentally and ready to face the day.

3. Take a Shower Every Day
It can be easy to skip showering once in a while, especially when we aren’t really going out. But sometimes, some of our best ideas can come while standing under a cascade of water. At the very least, you will feel more relaxed afterward, and of course, clean!

4. Set Aside at Least 30 Minutes Every Day for ‘Me Time’
This can be a tough one. With more people working from home, or parents taking on additional responsibilities of children and their homeschooling, or simply trying to find more innovative ways to entertain them during summer vacation, carving out ‘Me Time’ can seem impossible. If 30 minutes seems too difficult, try 10 minutes to start. Or maybe the amount of time per day will vary, which is okay too. Maybe it means you will have to wake up earlier or go to bed a little later. Find what works for you, because, as they say, you can’t pour from an empty cup.

5. Indulge in Your Basic Beauty Routine
While more people are wearing less makeup nowadays, it’s important to not neglect your beauty routine, at least at a basic level. This could range from doing your nails to occasionally wearing a body spray you like. It could also mean styling your hair and even trying new looks while being at home. If you make an effort with your looks, even those small efforts will make you feel better about yourself.

6. Cook or Bake Your Comfort Foods
As important as it is to eat as clean and healthy as possible, it just feels good to indulge in our cravings once in a while. Cook or bake foods that not only taste good but may even be connected to happy times with loved ones. This is also a great time to try your hand at new recipes that may later become family favorites!

7. Get Lost In a Book
As a parent, reading a novel may be lower on your list of priorities, simply because you may not have the time, energy, or quiet space to do it. But if you are able, give it a try. Getting lost in another world of characters may be just the distraction you need to get out of your personal bubble without even leaving home.

8. Listen to a Podcast, Ted Talk, or Anything That Aims to Teach
As unusual as quarantine is, when was the last time you had the opportunity to learn a new skill or hear a talk on an interesting topic? Learning something new, hearing a new perspective, and keeping your brain fit and active, are all so important, especially now.

9. Meditate & Practice Deep Breathing
Finally, if you are having one of those days where you can’t seem to catch your breath, meditation and deep breathing are everything. Try to hear your inner voice, even journaling your thoughts if necessary. Remember to practice gratitude, even if it means being grateful to take your next deep breath.

Remember, we are all in this together!

RELATED:
Prioritizing Self Care as a Mom
Simple Things to Do Every Day That Actually Help You Stay Healthy
Making Mom’s Self Care a Priority

This post originally appeared on The Haute Mommy Handbook.

Jen Kathrina-Anne is a blogger, freelance writer, and graphic designer. When she’s not writing or designing, she enjoys spending time outdoors in the California Bay Area where she resides with her husband and two fearless daughters. Find her at www.hautemommyhandbook.com.

 

Sometimes you really just want a slice of cheesecake. Then you remember how long it takes to bake at home—but fighting the restaurant crowds for a slice also makes you shudder. Still, cheesecake sounds so good, preferably blended up with some ice cream. Here comes Sonic to the rescue with new Cheesecake Blasts!

The popular drive through chain is offering two new flavors in its Blast lineup, Cheesecake Blast and Strawberry Cheesecake Blast. Both swirl delicious cheesecake and graham cracker pieces with ice cream, and the strawberry cheesecake even has real pieces of fruit added in.

Sonic Cheesecake Blasts

“From the rich, velvety flavor to the craveable crunch of the graham cracker, SONIC magically perfects the unmistakable experience of indulging in decadent cheesecake, with no fork or plate necessary,” said Scott Uehlein, vice president of product innovation and development for SONIC. “With high quality ingredients from start to finish, our guests can delight in the classic, or Strawberry Cheesecake Blast, to truly capture the delectable flavors of Summertime.”

One piece of bad news: the new blasts are only available for a limited time at participating Sonic drive ins, through June 27. If that news has you racing to your car, you can also order online or through the SONIC app for contactless payment and delivery. Consider your craving satisfied in minutes, not hours.

—Sarah Shebek

Featured image courtesy of Business Wire

 

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Need something new to satisfy your sweet tooth? Nestlé Toll House has the answer.

The sweet brand is getting ready to drop a bunch of new treats and that includes Funfetti cookies!  The refrigerated pre-shaped cookies feature vanilla cake-flavored dough filled and topped with rainbow sprinkles.

photo: Courtesy of Toll House

In addition to the new Funfetti treats, Nestle is also releasing Cookies & Creme Edible Cookie Dough, Hot Fudge Sundae and Chocolate Peanut Caramel Morsels & More products. The only kicker? You’l have to wait until the beginning of June to indulge yourself.

If you can’t wait, you can get your hands on Funfetti Edible Cooke Dough to get you through for $4.99 each.

––Karly Wood

 

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Calling all Reese’s lovers! If you have a sweet tooth that can not be satiated, you’ll want to get your hands on the new HipDot x Reeses’ Collection.

This is the first ever makeup line from Reese’s and its packed with everything you need to rock the chocolate, peanut buttery look in the best way. The collab is available beginning Thurs. Apr. 15 and features two 6-shade eyeshadow palettes, chocolate and peanut butter scented lip balms, a double-ended eye brush set, and a limited edition makeup bag set.

So what kind of goodness can you indulge in when it comes to the new line? Get ready to glam up with:

  • REESE’S Milk Chocolate Palette ($16): 6 high pay-off shades in brights and neutrals in matte, shimmer and glitter finishes.
  • REESE’S White Chocolate Palette ($16): 6 high pay-off shades in brights and neutrals in matte, shimmer and glitter finishes.
  • REESE’S Scented Lip Balms ($14): 2 tinted shades in chocolate and peanut butter scents
  • REESE’S Double Ended Brush Set ($16): High quality, synthetic double ended brushes
  • REESE’S Limited Edition Bag Set ($74):  Milk Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup and White Chocolate Peanut Butter Cup Palettes, scented Lip Balms and Double Ended Brush Duo in a limited edition makeup bag.

The HipDot x Reese’s Collection is vegan, certified cruelty free, free of parabens, talc, phthalates, petroleum, mineral oil and other harmful ingredients.

You can shop the limited edition collection starting today at Hipdot.com and soon at Ulta.com. The collection will also be available online on the Hershey’s website and Hershey’s two physical stores.

––Karly Wood

All photos: Courtesy of HipDot

 

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Get ready for a new snacking sensation! SNICKERS recently announced the launch of an almond brownie bar—and you can nab one this summer.

The SNICKERS Almond Brownie is everything you want in a candy bar. This new addition to the brand’s bars follows the release of the SNICKERS Peanut Brownie and SNICKERS Peanut Brownie Ice Cream.

photo courtesy of SNICKERS

Instead of your typical chocolate bar, the new SNICKERS brownie features a rich, chewy filling mixed with chopped almonds and topped with caramel. As if that’s not enough, the Almond Brownie is coated in a layer of dark chocolate.

Michelle Deignan, Mars Wrigley Senior Brand Director, said in a press release, “After seeing unparalleled excitement for the SNICKERS Peanut Brownie and SNICKERS Peanut Brownie Ice Cream launches, we’re excited to deliver on our purpose of better moments and more smiles by unveiling a delicious variation of the bar for our fans.”

SNICKERS Almond Brownie flavor will hit store shelves this August. Along with the 1.26-ounce Single bar, you can also indulge in a 2.52-ounce Share size or the 6.93-ounce Sharing Stand Up Pouch option.

—Erica Loop

 

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