ML Interest Tag: kids-care

8 NYC Candy & Chocolate Shops We’re Sweet On

by Yuliya Geikhman

These candy stores in NYC have what you crave for Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day will be here before you know it, and if you’ve got kids you know they’re expecting at least a little something sweet from you to celebrate (hey, it can’t be organic veggies all the time, right?). Luckily, we know just the place for you to find goodies for your sweethearts, both big and small. In fact, we know several places to get any kind of candy or chocolate you might desire—we’re talking fine chocolates, bulk candy, vintage candy, Swedish candy, and more. So the next time you’re in need of a sugar fix, head to one of these candy stores in NYC.

Looking for other Valentine’s Day treats around the city? Find something sweet at one of our favorite donut spots, ice cream shops, or cake bakeries.

Where to Satisfy Your Sweet Tooth in Brooklyn

1. Fferins of Brooklyn

 

Located on Park Slope’s Seventh Avenue, Fferins of Brooklyn packs a wide variety of goodies into a relatively small storefront. Its eclectic and far-reaching offerings include nostalgia candy (Pop Rocks, candy necklaces, Astropops, and more), British imports (Aero Bar, Cadbury Flake, Wispa Gold), and artisanal treats for sophisticated palettes. Plus: Harry Potter candy, uncommon beverages (Bob Ross Energy Drink anyone?), and bulk candy for pick and mix also line the shelves.

438 7th Ave.
Park Slope
Online: fferinsofbrooklyn.com

2. Williams Candy

This Coney Island institution has been serving up candy apples in the Big Apple for over 75 years. It’s hard to pass up a candy apple with rainbow sprinkles to eat along the boardwalk. But if apples aren’t your thing, you can also count on Williams for lollipops, fudge, and ice cream to get you through.

1318 Surf Ave.
Coney Island
Online: candytreats.com

Best Candy Shops in Manhattan

3. Economy Candy

Arguably the definitive NYC candy shop, the Lower East Side’s Economy Candy is an institution established in 1937. This “Nosher’s Paradise of the Lower East Side” stocks over 2,000 kinds of candy and other goodies that you’ll find packed floor-to-ceiling. Whether you’re looking for the newest treat on the candy scene, nostalgic candy brands from decades past or an incredible selection of vintage trading cards from shows and movies like Alf, E.T., and Mork & Mindy, you can find it here.

Insider Tip: If you’re overwhelmed by the jam-packed layout, try Economy Candy’s online store, where you can search candies by hue to get perfectly color-coordinated hauls.

108 Rivington St.
Lower East Side
Online: www.economycandy.com

4. Sour Patch Kids NYC

While it’s not a longstanding, beloved New York institution, if your child loves Sour Patch Kids, Sour Patch Kids NYC could be a fun outing. Yes, it’s a huge store dedicated to those tart tykes, with every flavor and type for sale, as well as over-the-top creations (ice cream, waffles, etc.) at the “Sweets Bar.” Lots of SP merch is for sale as well, and you can hop in the Sour Patch NYC cab for a photo op before you leave.

665 Broadway
Greenwich Village
Online: sourpatchkids.com

5. Dylan’s Candy Bar

You’ll find Dylan’s Candy Bar locations all over the country now, but the company, brainchild of Dylan Lauren, debuted in NYC in 2001. The NYC store is located in Hudson Yards and features the brand’s stylish and wildly colorful, candy-centric aesthetic. All the candy bases are covered here: bulk, chocolate, lollipops, gummies, sours, nostalgia, and more, but Dylan’s is also a good spot to hit for candy gifts with a little extra, such as chic treat-filled “tackle boxes”, special Valentine’s collections and pops, and over-the-top candy towers, candy “cakes,” and even a chocolate “bash cake” filled with confections. They can also whip up a DIY Candy Buffet for your next party.

20 Hudson Yards, 4th Floor
34th St., between 10th & 11th Avenues
Hudson Yards
Online: dylanscandybar.com

Swedish Candy Is What This Manhattan Candy Store Is all About

6. Bon Bon: A Swedish Candy Co.

While Swedish candy store Sockerbit is no more, Bon Bon (“A Swedish Candy Co.”) is open to satisfy all of your Swede candy needs and more. Gummy creations such as Swedish Fish are of course on the menu, with a selection of fish from popular maker Kolsvart offered. Plus: Swedish lollipops, gum, beverages, and even Swedish delicacies. Bon Bon’s mixes are fun and festive, with curated collections of sweet, sour, jelly/marshmallow, and even gluten-free and vegan. Good news if you’re the type to crave Swedish sweets after bedtime (or at least the kids’ bedtimes)—Bon Bon is open til midnight.

Good to Know: They also have a shop in Brooklyn.

130 Allen St.
Lower East Side
Online: bonbonnyc.com

Best Chocolate Shop in Queens

7. Aigner Chocolates

Another NYC institution, Forest Hills’ Aigner Chocolates is widely recognized as producing some of the finest chocolate in the city. Founded in 1930, the shop creates its Austrian chocolate using time-tested recipes and vintage machines. Valentine’s Day is a big deal here, of course, and Aigner’s offers a wide range of chocolate treats and pops in shapes and flavors of all kinds. The bedazzled chocolate video game controller is sure to win your gamer’s heart, and you can’t go wrong with a sprinkle stripe pop.

103-02 Metropolitan Ave.
Forest Hills
Online: www.aignerchocolates.com

Find the Candy You Need at This Staten Island Favorite

8. Philip’s Candy

The exterior may not be much to look at, but Philip’s Candy is a local favorite in Northern Staten Island. The Staten Island extension to the now-closed “Coney Island’s Oldest Candy Shop,”—it was founded in 1930—Philip’s has a quiet mom-and-pop atmosphere, an old timey charm, and lovingly crafted chocolates and candies. Signature treats include fresh fruit hand-dipped in melted chocolate, chocolate-covered marzipan and graham crackers, and flavored popcorn. Just remember they’re closed Mondays.

8 Barrett Ave.
Staten Island
Online: www.philipscandy.com

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32 Toys That Encourage Diversity & Inclusion

by Kate Loweth

Inclusivity can be taught from a very young age and these companies are doing their part to make the toy landscape a diverse one. From a doll that looks like your child to one that teaches about their medical condition, diverse toys can make us feel valued as humans and show us that there’s a whole world beyond our front door.

Barbie Inspiring Women Series

Barbie Inspiring Women Series is diverse toy line

Showcasing women who've made the world a better place through determination and fighting for justice and equal opportunity, Barbie's Inspiring Women Series includes change makers like Eleanor Roosevelt, Dr. Maya Angelou, and Hellen Keller. Now the collection has a new doll: civil rights activities and women's suffragette, Ida B. Wells.

Wells co-founded the National Association of Colored Women’s Clubs and the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) which fight for freedom, justice, and equal opportunity to this day. Not only does the doll pay homage to this history-making woman, but Barbie has also partnered with Girls Write Now, a non-profit organization that removes gender, race, age, and poverty barriers to mentor future writers and leaders. 

You can shop the entire collection here.

Teni and Tayo Creations

Teni and Tayo Creations are excited to share a piece of Africa with young children. Omobola Imoisili founded the brand after relocating to L.A. from Nigeria and wanting to give her small daughters something representative of their heritage while they attend school. Brand mascots Feyi Fay, a superhero fairy, and Captain Nosa, a Nigerian scientist, and superhero, encourage kids to do well in school and promote a love of learning in all the brand’s offerings. From STEM toys to books and apparel, there are diverse toys available for everyone. 

Shop the collection here

ISH Dolls

ISH Dolls creates diverse toys and clothing that celebrate culture and the Hindu faith. Their colorful plush dolls are designed to bring joy to children of all backgrounds and to introduce them to the avatars found in Hindu culture. This mom-owned business launched at the height of the pandemic in May 2020 with its first plush, Baby Krishna, and followed up with his companions Rahda, Durga and Baby Lakshmi.

IG: @ISHDOLLS 

Shop the collection here

Everyone Is Awesome LEGO Set

Everything—and everyone—is awesome! Inspired by the rainbow flag of the LGBTQIA+ community, LEGO's “Everyone is Awesome” 346-piece set features 11 unique monochrome figures with individual colors and hairstyles. Once completed, it’s the perfect size for a desk or window display, to bring a colorful pop to life every day.

Buy it here

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

Qai Qai Doll from Serena Williams

Qai Qai is no ordinary doll; since appearing on social media alongside Serena Williams, Alexis Ohanian, and their daughter Olympia, Qai Qai has amassed thousands of followers of her own. According to Serena Williams, "When we first opened @RealQaiQai's account on Instagram two years ago, it was just supposed to be an inside joke, but we've come to realize that Qai Qai could be the beginning of a new kind of toy story, and one that we're excited to help bring to life so our daughter and millions of other children can see and play with more toys that look like them." 

Get your Qai Qai here

Creatable World Deluxe Character Kit Customizable Doll

We love these dolls from Creatable World as they let kids change the doll's looks with wigs and clothing. Celebrate all of our differences!

Shop the collection here

Red & Olive

Your heart will melt at the cute offerings from Red & Olive. Not only are the knit ethical dolls adorable, but they also help support the artisans who handmake each one. Each fair trade doll is handmade by Peruvian artists, empowering them to provide for themselves and their families. The companion dolls come with either matching beanies or bows.

Shop the collection here

Little Biscuits Dress-Me Notepad

inclusive notepad diverse

Part sketch pad, part paper dolls, kids can "dress up" the little people to look just like them or anything else they can imagine! 

Shop the collection here

Modi Toys

Celebrate the culture and traditions of India with Modi Toys. This family-owned small business offers plush diverse toys and gift baskets that feature Baby Ganesh, Baby Krishna, and Baby Hanuman along with books that explain their history. You can even personalize the plush toys with a baby's name—the perfect gift for a new arrival.

Shop the collection here

The Little Feminist Book Club

Diversify your child's bookshelf with the help of The Little Feminist Books Club. When you select the 7-9 age group, you will get two paperbacks or one hardcover book each month, along with a hands-on activity that goes along with the book, a discussion card, and a parent letter explaining why the book was chosen. 

Subscriptions start at $23/month. Get yours here. 

Healthy Roots Doll Zoe

The Healthy Roots Doll Zoe is a life-like 18” doll with hair uniquely designed with curl power that allows it to be washed and styled, giving kids the chance to learn more about how to care for their curls by practicing on hers. The inspiration for Zoe came from Yelitsa Jean-Charles, a young woman—who like many others—never had a doll that looked like her growing up.

Kids can use real products and try out countless styles from puffs to box braids! Zoe learned to love her hair after she did the big chop with her mom. Together they learned how to love every single one of her curls. Now she’s here to help other girls learn to love their curls.

Zoe is available here

Worldgirls

Check out these dolls for girls on a mission to change the world. Inspired by their upbringing in Brooklyn, New York, twin sisters Laken and Carlissa King sought to create dolls that spark creativity and celebrate togetherness.

Worldgirls are 18-inch dolls representing girls from around the world who are chosen to attend the top-secret school, Worldgirls Hall. Each Worldgirl is assigned 1 of 5 traits: WARRIOR, HEALER, EXPLORER, REBEL, and SCHOLAR. The company created the traits so children could connect with the dolls' unique passions rather than their looks.  

Shop the collection here

The Fresh Dolls

When Dr. Lisa Williams, CEO & Founder of the only Black-owned major doll company, saw the psychological implications of the importance of your toy box no matter your race or ethnicity, she created the Positively Perfect Dolls for younger children. In recent years her company has created The Fresh Dolls featuring black and multicultural fashion dolls and accessories. The Fresh Dolls were intentionally created with fuller hips and thighs, and a more realistic waistline, with trendy fashion pieces. New this year is their Wakanda Forever superhero line!

Shop the collection here.

MyFamilyBuilders

If you’ve ever had the frustration of finding dolls that look like your family (or friends!), you’ll LOVE this. Multiracial families, same-sex families, single-parent families, and adoptive families can now construct dolls that capture the beautiful reality of their households. MyFamilyBuilders is a unique, educational wooden diverse toy that is stackable and magnetic to create the perfect doll.

Shop the collection here

Nostalgia on the Go: Play Maysie

Play Maysie is diverse toy line

Created by single adoptive mom Kayla Lupean, Play Maysie is a portable, customizable world in a case for the pint-sized bunch. Noted as “everything a dollhouse should be,” this diverse toy is a gender-neutral classic childhood favorite that is made for adventures. Play Maysie’s design was inspired by the nostalgia of vintage tin lunchboxes. It folds out on both sides to showcase interchangeable, magnetic rooms with fixed wooden furniture—built for frustration-free play, less mess and no more lost pieces! With an eye on teaching sustainability, each Play Maysie is made of eco-friendly, renewable materials for indoor and outdoor play either at home or on the go.  

At the core of the company's mission, for every three Play Maysie cases purchased, they will donate another one to a child who is entering the foster care system. Their hope is, with an integral sense of ownership, foster youth can open their Play Maysie case at any time to create an experience where they feel safe, secure, and in control during a time where nearly everything in their world is unfamiliar.

Shop the collection here

Mouse Loves Pig's Melanin Magic Ribbon Wands

While you might be used to seeing ribbon wands in rainbow or pastel colors, the Melanin Magic Ribbon Wands are a celebration of melanin. Kids need to see all skin tones all together all on the same toy. Each ribbon deserves a place and the rainbow would look incomplete if it were missing one. These simple toys make a wonderful gross motor skills tool for dancing, twirling, jumping, and shaking. They also make a great conversation starter for kids. Purchasing one of these diverse toys support Brown Babes Rep Too, an organization dedicated to ensuring a diverse environment in small business advertising. 

You can find them here

Dolls with Autism, Dwarfism and Hearing Loss from Lottie Dolls

Lottie Dolls introduced a doll inspired by an autistic boy who loves astronomy. The diverse toy comes with an astronaut-in-training jumpsuit, companion dog, noise-reducing headphones, and sunglasses to reduce visual sensory overload. 

Lottie Dolls offers dolls that highlight diversity, including the Mia doll, a wildlife photographer with a cochlear implant, and the Sinead doll, the world's first doll with dwarfism.

Shop the collection here. 

Custom Dolls from Kay Customz

Crystal Kaye is the artist behind Kay Customz. Not only are Crystal’s custom dolls cute, but they’re also inclusive. She goes beyond creating dolls in a few different skin tones, and makes dolls with freckles (and not just the traditional two or three that are meant to look cute but don’t really represent what a normal person looks like freckles), vitiligo and albinism.

Shop the collection here

Build-a-Bear & Vermont Teddy Bear Company Amputee Bears

For kids with limb differences, Build-a-Bear and the Vermont Teddy Bear Company are there to create a bear with the same limb difference. Both offer customization that allows this treasured bear to match its owner. 

Differently-Abled Dolls from Barbie's Fashionistas Line

Barbie now has a diverse toy line of dolls

The Barbie Fashionistas line, which already includes Barbie dolls with various body types and hairstyles, also offers two differently-abled dolls. The first doll is in a wheelchair and the second is fitted with a prosthetic leg. “As a brand, we can elevate the conversation around physical disabilities by including them into our fashion doll line to further showcase a multi-dimensional view of beauty and fashion,” Mattel said.

Shop the collection here. 

Orijin Bees

To encourage their daughter's interest in African culture, two parents created this doll company with different shades of skin complexions and hair textures available. They even have a buy-one-gift-one program! 

Shop the collection here

Plastic Army Women from BMC Toys

Inspired by the letter from a six-year-old girl, the iconic green army men sold by BMC Toys now have an addition—women soldiers. They are available in four different military poses

Shop the collection here. 

Audio and Braille Instructions from LEGO

LEGO believes brick building should be inclusive for everyone, which is why LEGO Audio and Braille instructions were introduced in 2019.

The idea was inspired by Matthew Shifrin who was born blind and loved to play with LEGO bricks. As a child, he had a friend, Lilya who would painstakingly write down all of the LEGO building steps so that he could upload the written directions into a system that translated them in a Braille reader. For the first time in his life, he was able to build LEGO sets entirely on his own. 

When Lilya passed away, Shifrin decided he wanted to share his experience with others like him. A friend from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology introduced him to the Creative Play Lab at LEGO Group and his wonderful idea was developed into the LEGO Audio and Braille instruction. LEGO also has LEGO Braille bricks!

American Girl Truly Me Dolls

With dozens and dozens of looks to choose from in the Truly Me collection, your child can bring home an American Girl doll who brings out exactly who they are. From singing to soccer to so much more, every child can find outfits and accessories to match their interests.

Kids can even have their dolls fitted with a prosthetic leg by the company A Step Ahead Prosthetics.

Lakeshore Learning's People with Differing Abilities

We all want our kids to be open-minded, but in order to understand other people's differences, it's important that kids see those differences first-hand—and talk about them. Lakeshore Learning's People with Differing Abilities include people with realistic details and adaptive equipment—from a girl in a wheelchair to a boy with leg braces. For younger kiddos, Lakeshore also has a "Soft and Safe" version of these diverse toys that feature children with various disabilities.  

Shop the collection here.

Wonder Crew Boy Dolls

Wonder Crew is a diverse toy line

If you've got a superhero-loving kid who wants a doll—but not that kind of doll—Wonder Crew dolls are the perfect addition. The collection of boy dolls was designed to have the "adventure of an action figure with the emotional connection of the favorite stuffed animal." They're soft and perfect for cuddles, but they're also superheroes. What's even cooler? Each doll comes with two masks and capes: One for the doll and one for the kid who plays with it. Genius. 

Shop the collection here

Jerry the Bear Teaches Kids about Diabetes

By taking care of Jerry's diabetes, children gain hands-on practice with counting carbs, monitoring Jerry's blood sugar and dosing Jerry with insulin. Kids care for Jerry using the virtual diabetes tools and the digital pantry in the product's app.

Follow along with Jerry's journey to train for the All-Stars Games! All 21 interactive storybooks are paired with care tasks to reinforce important diabetes lessons. The curriculum is co-designed with doctors, educators and families to create educational content that kids love.

Learn more here.

Lammily Dolls with Realistic Proportions

Lammily Dolls are a diverse toy line
Lammily Dolls

Do you know what's not empowering? Dolls with body proportions that are impossible to have in real life. That's why the makers of Lammily Dolls decided to make a collection of dolls using proportions akin to the average 19-year-old American woman. That means everything from the hands, arms, and neck to the waist, legs, and feet are realistic. The makers hope that playing with "normal" dolls will help young girls see their own bodies more positively (because sadly, studies show girls start worrying about their looks by age five). 

Shop the collection here.

Maru and Friends

Diversity is the name of the game when it comes to this line of dolls. Maru and Friends dolls are making a statement, and it’s one that’s long overdue. These dolls are more than just pretty playthings. Maru and Friends tell the tale of life as an immigrant. And your child can learn Maru’s story, as well as what it’s like for her friends to grow up in America.

Shop the collection here 

Handmade Keepsake Dolls from HarperIman

This line of dolls and accessories was created by Cynthia Watkins and Kathryn Burnett, a mother-daughter duo, in 2017. Different skin tones, sizes, and hair types are available and each doll is handmade with painstaking detail given to outfits with the ability to match a specific outfit if desired. 

Get yours Shop the collection here. 

I Never Forget a Face Memory Game

A memory game that is a diverse toy for kids

This award-winning game matches faces to countries. Twenty-four pairs of illustrated cards depict the happy faces of children from all over the world and make for a fun and educational memory game. At times challenging, the game helps sharpen recognition and memory skills. The back of the game box shows which country each child is from. 

Buy it here

SunWorks Multicultural Construction Paper

SunWorks

Great for multicultural arts and crafts activities. This set includes 10 sheets of each of these five colors: Manila, Salmon, Light Brown, Brown and Dark Brown.

Buy it here

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Dove Just Dropped Bath Slime & Our Kids Can’t Get Enough

by Erin Lem

Bath time may be their favorite evening activity and thanks to Dove Kids Care, there’s even more reason to look forward to this nightly tradition. Dove Kids Care just launched a brand-new collection of products for kids that include bubble bath, body wash and even slime wash. Read on for all the details and to discover why we’re positively ecstatic about this new collection.

Dove Kids Care’s newest line includes products that are designed specifically for kids. This means everything from the packaging to the ingredients to the products themselves are made for kids in colors, textures and fragrances they’ll adore. All products are paraben-free, phthalate-free, cruelty-free and sulfate-free and designed for kids ages one year and up.

Your family will love that each bottle showcases illustrations of kids with positive statements like: “I am fantastic, smart and helpful” or “I am thoughtful, caring and fun.” These illustrations and positive affirmations align with Dove’s mission to make all kids feel represented and encouraged to embrace what makes them unique.

According to Dove’s US research, kids as young as three-years old can start to build self-esteem when they see themselves positively represented in the world around them. With these products designed with kids in mind, Dove is hoping to set kids up to have a positive relationship with their bodies.

The collection includes:

Dove Kids Care Bubble Bath, available in Coconut Cookie and Cotton Candy
This bubble bath is anything but ordinary. It features a kid-friendly fragrance and creates a colorful bath for tons of sudsy fun. Available for $5.99 at Target.

 

 

Dove Kids Care Foaming Body Wash, available in Coconut Cookie, Cotton Candy and Berry Smoothie
We love foaming body wash, especially when its nourishing and won’t dry out skin. This one checks all the boxes. It’s a hypoallergenic formula and is gentle enough for all skin types. Available for $5.99 at Target.

 

Dove Kids Care Slime Wash available in Berry Smoothie
As if bath time wasn’t fun enough already, Dove Kids Care just introduced this slime wash, which ups the bath time fun significantly. The wash starts out as slime and then turns into cleanser once they start lathering it up. Available for $5.99 at Target.

—Erin Lem

photos: Dove Kids Care

 

 

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Etsy Released Their 2020 Kids Trend Guide

by Jennifer Swartvagher

Etsy announced their 2020 Kids Trend Guide, based on Etsy search data from the last three months. With more time spent at home than ever before, this year’s trends look a little different than expected. Featuring ‘90s-inspired crafts, upgraded playrooms, show-stopping nursery decor upgrades and more, this year’s trends are all about fostering a lively and friendly environment for kids. 

Etsy’s 2020 Kids Trends: 

 

‘90s nostalgia

Etsy’s 2020 Kids Trends

The ‘90s are back, with nostalgic activities and styles– on the rise. Tie-dye is undeniably the shopper favorite with a 318% increase in searches for kids tie-dye items. Other rising stars include daisy items, up 66%, jump ropes, up 228%* and kids overalls up 15%.

Playroom upgrades

Etsy’s 2020 Kids Trends

As we find ourselves spending more time at home this year, parents are investing in the spaces their kids use most to help keep the boredom at bay. There has been a remarkable 680% increase in searches for climbing gyms,  and 85% increase in searches for playmats, along with items that promote relaxation, with searches for bean bag chairs up 145%. And, when looking for decor inspiration, kids are loving fun wall decor, with a 71% increase in searches for dinosaur wall art or decor, and a 37% increase in searches for school of fish items.

Quiet time

Etsy’s 2020 Kids Trends

The wellness trend is making its way into kids’ care, as parents look to carve out space and time that promote relaxation and self-care. On Etsy, there’s been a 198% increase in searches for quiet activity books, a 164% increase in searches for yoga items for kids, a 158% increase in searches for kids puzzles, and a  107% increase in searches for kids journals.

Kid-friendly crafts

Etsy’s 2020 Kids Trends

An appealing alternative to screen time, on Etsy, we’ve seen kid-friendly crafts spike in popularity, with searches for DIY kits for kids up 336%, a 648% increase in searches for kids sewing kits, a 692% increase in searches for friendship bracelet kits, and a whopping 2,575% increase in searches for kids paint by number kits.

Photo-worthy nurseries

Etsy’s 2020 Kids Trends

As virtual introductions to newborns become the new normal, there’s a fresh focus on creating a camera-ready space, incorporating maximalist touches, and can’t-miss-me details for show-stopping stylish spaces. Searches for nursery buntings or garlands jumped 81%, nursery mobiles searches jumped 49%, and nursery wall stickers and decals searches jumped  6% on Etsy.

Little Helpers

Etsy’s 2020 Kids Trends

Whether it’s drying the dishes, baking a cake, or cleaning the house, kids are becoming more involved with daily household tasks. We’ve already seen a 247% increase in searches for Montessori towers, a 118% increase in searches for kids step stool, and a 43% increase in searches on Etsy for chore charts.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

All photos courtesy of Etsy

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The Family Survival Guide for Chicago Airports

by Maria Chambers

The holiday season is upon us and that can sometimes equal family travel, and killing time at the airport with kids isn’t always a smooth-sailing joyride. But it can be tolerable—and even fun (ish)—if you know where to go. Here are the best places to eat, play and “go potty” while you’re hanging out at O’Hare and Midway.

photo: O’Hare Airport via Maria Chambers

O’Hare International Airport

Love it or hate it, traveling through O’Hare is necessary for most Chicagoans. Make the most of your time there by visiting the hidden-gem family attractions.

PLAY
In Terminal 2, you’ll find a restored F3F-4 fighter plane flown by World War II hero, Lt. Commander Edward “Butch” O’Hare. It’s a great photo opp and older kids will get a kick out of learning about the pilot’s life.

If your flight schedule doesn’t allow time to head over to Terminal 2, check out the small play area in Terminal 5 near Gate M12. There you will find “Play It Safe,” an educational exhibit sponsored by the Chicago Fire Department. It teaches kids about the importance of safety and the proper way to respond in emergencies.

A little-known fact about O’Hare is that one of the largest mounted dinosaurs in the world, a Brachiosaurus, can be found on the upper level of Terminal 1 in Concourse B. The four-story-high, 72-foot-long skeleton model is on loan from The Field Museum.

Lastly, put some razzle-dazzle into your wait with a walk through a light sculpture. “The Sky’s The Limit” is a 744-foot-long kinetic neon whirl of light and sound, and it can be found in the underground walkway between Concourses B and C in Terminal 1.

EAT
There’s no shortage of restaurants at O’Hare, but some are more kid-friendly then others. They’ve certainly upped their game the last several years, with familiar names like Publican Tavern, Frontera and Summer House Santa Monica. If your sweet tooth is kicking in, Garrett’s Popcorn and Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory both have shops in Terminals 1 and 3 and TCBY calls the Rotunda in Terminal 3 home. For kid-favorite juice spots, Jamba Juice is located in Terminal 1 by Gate B7 and Smoothie King is in Terminal 1 by Gate B6. For healthy choices, head to Argo Tea Café in Terminals 2 and 3. In addition to selling coffee and tea, Argo offers vegan food options, parfaits, panini and salads. If you’re flying internationally, Goddess and the Grocer has fresh pre-packaged meals, including vegan options, that are quite good.

For more of a true Chicago restaurant experience, go to Tortas Frontera, a Rick Bayless joint in Terminals 1, 3 and 5. Share a griddle-baked torta with your little one, and don’t miss the fresh guacamole. If you have a morning flight, do yourself a favor and order a breakfast bowl (a.k.a cazuelas). You won’t believe it’s airport food. Another good bet is Wicker Park Sushi Bar in Terminal 2. Order the kids the California rolls and banana rolls (a great dessert) while you indulge in fresh nigiri as the last blast before you have airplane-food coma.

POTTY
Those of us who have tried to cram into an airport bathroom stall with a toddler know how uncomfy it can get. Problem solved at O’Hare’s family-friendly bathrooms, which offer more space and amenities than the average johns. There are 22 family bathrooms at O’Hare. Eight are in Terminal 1, four in Terminal 2, eight in Terminal 3 and two in Terminal 5. The bathrooms are all equipped with plastic seat covers and they are roomy enough to accommodate strollers and have space to set down luggage and diaper bags. If you’re in a bind, the Travelers’ Aid office located in Terminal 2 sometimes has extra diapers and wipes on hand.

NURSING MOTHERS
To find quiet and privacy when nursing, look for Mother’s Rooms in Terminal 1 at Gate B10, Terminal 2 at the crossover between Gates E5 and F9, in Terminal 3 in the Rotunda near the Yoga Room and Urban Garden, in Terminal 5 near Gate M14, and in the newly opened multi-modal facility on Lower Level (2).

photo: The Sky’s the Limit via Maria Chambers

BEST VIEWS IN THE HOUSE
Now pay close attention here because this is really all the kids care about . . . watching the planes do their thing. For restaurants with great views of planes landing and taking off, check out Berghoff Cafe at Gate C26 in Terminal 1, the Food Court at Gate C26 in Terminal 1 and Chili’s Too in Terminal 3 near Gate G10. To see planes grounded, hit up Tuscany Restaurant at Gate B18 in Terminal 1, Goose Island in Terminal 1 at Gate C10 and Terminal 3 at Gate K4, Argo Tea at Gate E5 in Terminal 2, Wicker Park Seafood & Sushi in Terminal 2 Main Hall, Chicago Cubs Bar & Grill in Terminal 3’s Rotunda and Macaroni Grill at Gate K2 in Terminal 3.

In Terminal 1, between concourses B ad C, you’ll find an extraordinary light show called The Sky’s the Limit that will keep even the most hard-to-entertain kids and parents mesmerized for at least several minutes.

STAY
If you have an early-morning flight you’re afraid of missing or a long haul to get there, consider staying at Hilton Chicago O’Hare. On top of being directly connected to the domestic terminals thru underground walkways, so you don’t have to deal with iffy Chicago weather, you also get spacious studio suites with a large sitting area, king bed and sofa bed, 42-inch HDTV, mini-bar, WiFi and on-demand movies and video games. Worried about trying to catch some ZZZs so close to the runway? Sound-resistant windows and blackout drapes will help with all that, so you can arrive bright-eyed and bushy-tailed at your final destination.

The newly built Rose Hotel Chicago O’Hare is the closest off-airport hotel to the airport and they just announced a Park and Go guestroom package. Starting at $129/night, guests can get overnight accommodations with complimentary parking for up to seven nights and free shuttle to and from the airport.

Midway International Airport

O’Hare’s quieter sister is less crowded. As a result, there isn’t as much to see and do there. Still, families will find enough good food and fun to bide the time before takeoff.

PLAY
In Concourse A, check out the exhibit about the WWII Battle of Midway. You’ll see 15 different videos about the war and how planes and pilots were battle-tested off the shores of Lake Michigan. A number of aircraft were lost to the Great Lake including the small SBD Dauntless dive-bomber hanging overhead; it plummeted in 1944 and was recovered and restored 50 years later.

Additionally, Kids Works near Gate B1 is a fun store for the whole family, and provides some entertainment with a wide selection of toys and games. You may not escape without having to buy your kids a little something, but at least this store will at least keep you busy for a bit.

EAT
The best options for food can be found along Concourse B. Nuts on Clark is a good choice for healthy snacks like dried fruit (perfect for when plane munchies strike). If you’re passing through Concourse A, head to Manny’s. This outpost of the South Loop deli has a kids’ menu including favorites such as grilled cheese and spaghetti, and a delicious corned beef sandwich for grownups.

Midway partnered with Premiere restaurant group and launched the Healthy Fare for Kids program. You’ll find antibiotic-free meats, whole grain breads, smaller portion sizes, lower salt, no deep-fried anything, local ingredients and non-sugared beverages in all Healthy Fare for Kids meals. The Healthy Fare for Kids logo can be spotted on the tops of grab-and-go containers in most restaurant coolers, primarily in Concourses A and B and near baggage claim.

POTTY
The bathrooms are equipped with changing stations and are roomy enough to accommodate large families and their luggage and family restrooms are available in all the Concourses

NURSING MOTHERS
For a tranquil, private space to breastfeed baby, head to Concourse C, next to the Yoga Room. You’ll find comfortable seating with a sink, wash area and a wall-mounted TV.

TIPS, NO MATTER THE AIRPORT

  • Be sure to double-check the bags your kids pack. Items even remotely resembling a banned item can hold you up in security. So, no toy guns, for instance.
  • According to TSA, formula, breast milk, juice, baby food and liquid medications greater than 3.4 ounces are exempt to the 3-1-1 liquids rule. Baby bottles and sippy cups are allowed, just be sure to remove them from your carry-on bag to be screened.
  • When looking for snacks to pack, consider dried fruits, nuts, granola bars, crackers, pretzels and cookies as opposed to creamy items, such as jams, peanut butter and yogurt, as those items are subject to the 3.4 ounce or less rule.
  • All strollers and car seats will be subject to the screening process, so be prepared to unbuckle the kids to send those items through the x-ray.
  • Kids under the age of 12 do not need to remove their shoes.
  • For the ultimate family travel hack, invest your time and money in TSA Pre✓. The amount of time saved in security lines is well worth the minimal hassle of setting yourself up. 

Happy travels! And don’t forget, for updates on Chicago’s airports, go to flychicago.com.

— Maria Chambers & Angie Berthelsen

Featured photo: Porapak Apichodilok via Pexels

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Why the Grand Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real Should Be on Your Family Vaycay List

by Maria Chambers

The circle is the universal symbol of wholeness and perfection and all-inclusive The Grand Reserve at Paradisus by Melia Hotels in Punta Cana—with its circular design, classy but approachable vibe and an overall aura that magically expels stress—crushes that perfection goal. Winter, spring, summer or fall, there’s no bad time to make the easy trek to the Dominican Republic, so let us show you why you’ll want to be one of the first to family-bond in these uber-cool Caribbean digs.

photo: The Grand Reserve from above via Maria Chambers

The Need-to-Know Room Specs
The Grand Reserve wants you to have a think-free vacation, so the experience is all-inclusive. And, keep in mind, Melia Hotels is hyper-focused on shattering the perception that runs rampant about all-inclusive vacations by offering guests an unparalleled luxurious experience.

photo: The Grand Reserve kitchen via Maria Chambers

The resort has 288 expansive, brand new suites ranging from 800 to over 3,000 square feet. Suites feature either one or two bedrooms with living and dining spaces, making them ideal for entertaining or having adult-only time after kids slip off to dreamland. Families will also enjoy the soaking tubs and walk-in showers, private balconies with hydro-massage whirlpool tubs and outdoor relaxation spaces. A family-favorite is the swim-up suites with one or two bedrooms and direct access to an exclusive pool with lush garden areas and a solarium.

photo: Greyerbaby via Pixabay

On-Site Activities
Let’s be honest. All the kids care about is where to find the giant sandbox called beach and a cannonball-worthy pool. Guests of The Grand Reserve have access to the Beach Club along the vibrant Bavaro Beach via hotel shuttle or short walk, a large pool in the hotel’s center and Blast! AquaFun Park, a kid’s adventure park with games and slides.

While parents can hop in the pool for a bit of Woga (water yoga, of course), kids can work their sillies out at Rhythm & Moves. This fun-fueled class helps kids explore how their bodies move to music and develops self-awareness, balance, coordination, and concentration skills as they interpret music and groove to the sweet beats.

Schedule a break from family time in favor of an afternoon spent at one of the three spas or simply relax poolside with a book while the kids play the day away at the Kids Club. Trained Kids Club staff lead the kids in group and crafting activities, 5 p.m. daily rock climbing and bungee jumping, help them tend to a small garden, take them swimming and feed them lunch from a kid-friendly (but healthy) buffet. Their facilities and planned activities are likely to rival any you’ve experienced before in cleanliness, organization and scope.

Where to Dine
The dining options are almost endless—ranging from flip flops and beach coverup casual to sophisticated—and the food is prepared with all ages in mind. With 14 restaurants on site and 24-hour room service, there’s no chance you’ll find yourself feeling hungry. Onsite you’ll find a gourmet market, an impossibly cool steakhouse, ceviche and sushi bars, teppanyaki and robatayaki tables, as well as two new concepts for Melia: a classic American sports bar and a modern take on your classic cigar bar with a premium selection of cigars, liqueurs and artisanal cocktails.

Stay at One, Play at 3
A stay at The Grand Reserve means guests get an all-access pass to the facilities, services and restaurants at the neighboring The Reserve and Paradisus Palma Real resorts. Both are accessible via golf cart shuttle or a 10-minute walk along paths. Combined, the additional two resorts add to your experience 15 restaurants including Passions by Martin Berasategui, who holds ten Michelin stars, YHI Spa and YHI Spa Oriental Garden, 5 pools and complimentary Life Enriching Experiences (think wine tastings and sushi-making classes).

photo: Ocean Adventure’s Pirate Adventure via Maria Chambers

Where to Play Outside of the Resort
While there’s enough to keep you entertained on property, a change of scenery and island exploration is never a bad idea. And, why not let pirates show you the lay of the land? Ocean Adventures’ 3-hour Caribbean Pirates adventure will have you snorkeling with sharks and interacting with stingrays at Shark Island, exploring coral reef and following treasure maps. Just don’t get too comfortable—you never know when rival pirates will attack. Included in the price is unlimited beverages, hotel pickup and drop-off, fruits and light snacks. As a bonus, kids come along for free.

photo: Heli tour via Maria Chambers

An ocean-side snooze, toes dug deep in the sand is a not-so-shabby way to tick off another dreamy day, nor is taking to the skies to survey the ocean blues and lush landscapes. Gain a full appreciation for the beauty of the Dominican with a birds-eye view on a helicopter tour with Punta Cana Helicopters. Options range from 10 to 40-minute sightseeing tours to adventure eco tours that include ziplining, refreshing dips in natural pools and a 2-hour boogie ride.

Best Time to Explore the DR
Because Punta Cana is in the Caribbean, the weather is beautiful all year round. If you’re looking to chill in this hotspot during a quieter, less crowded time, consider traveling March-May when the highs average in the low 80s. Hurricane season is June-November, but your chance of getting gorgeous weather is better than average. The warmest months on the island are June-September. If you’re considering visiting during peak season, December-February, it’s advised to plan several months out.

Travel tips

  • Electric outlets are the same as in the US and Canada, so no need to worry about bringing adapters for all those electronics you won’t need because you’ll be outside soaking up the sunshine!
  • The language spoken on the island is Spanish, but most resort employees are fluent in English, so communicating won’t be a problem. But, hey! It’d be a good time to test out those two years of Spanish your parents made you take in high school, si?
  • Shuttles are available from the Punta Cana Airport, which is about 25 miles south of the resort. Be sure to schedule this through the resort prior to your arrival.
  • Set expectations—some kids dream of shell collecting when you tell them a beach vacation is on the horizon. You won’t likely find shells of any significance on Punta Cana’s beaches.
  • The selection of sunscreens is limited, so if you have a favorite or have kids with sensitive skin, consider bringing your own from home.
  • The residents of Dominican are welcoming to tourists and warm in spirit, especially the Melia staff, so don’t be afraid to sidle up to a local for good chats.

The Grand Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real
Playa de Bávaro
Punta Cana, Dominican Republic
Online: melia.com

—Maria Chambers

Photos and renderings provided by The Grand Reserve at Paradisus Palma Real unless otherwise noted

This trip was paid for by Melia Hotels International and all opinions expressed here belong to the writer.

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Hip Restaurants With Play Areas

by Beth Shea

If you’d love to go out for dinner but you’re worried your kids will be climbing the walls waiting for the food to arrive, fear not! We’ve found 10 restaurants with exciting and engaging play areas that will keep them entertained while you enjoy a night out on the town at some of the city’s hippest hot spots. Read on for indoor and outdoor restaurant settings where you and the fam can dine out and enjoy everything from bowling or playing arcade games to foosball and giant Jenga.

Punch Bowl Social

Punch Bowl Social

A recent arrival to the San Diego scene, Punch Bowl Social is a whopping 23,500-square-foot restaurant, bar and entertainment destination that families will love. It boasts two bocce courts, private karaoke rooms, eight bowling lanes, shuffle board, Bonzini, an arcade, a custom built 360-degree bar with televisions galore for sports enthusiasts and numerous lounging and gathering spots. Even board game lovers will be pleased to find an array of classic games to play. In addition to the endless fun to be had, the food and drink menus are also a hit. The kids menu features tyke-friendly fare ranging from a cheeseburger or enchiladas to a lemon waffle or banana almond butter sandwich. Adults can sink their teeth into delectable salads, burgers, fried chicken and additional comfort foods with elevated flair––and it's great that they also offer tantalizing vegetarian and gluten-free items. Punch Bowl Social's made-from-scratch food is described as "American diner with a fresh, modern take on Mexican cuisine."

Insider's Tip: Cool down with a boozy milkshake (kids can get a non-boozy version!) The Malted Maple Royale milkshake looks like the perfect treat to beat this summer heat.

Good to know: After 10 p.m., Punch Bowl Social is open only to the 21 and older crowd.

1485 E. St.
San Diego, CA
619-452-3352
Online: punchbowlsocial.com/location/san-diego

Park 101

Aydee Z. via Yelp

It takes a village! This kid-friendly and dog-friendly 8,000 square-foot multi-level, plaza-style complex fuses dining, lounging and sipping in a playful, relaxed community inspired ambiance. Kids can roam around or plop down on the astroturf, play the giant Connect Four game or bean bag toss. There's open-air seating, cozy fire pits and many ways to eat. You can grab a cup a coffee and a donut or a eat a bigger meal like pulled pork, chicken or salmon. Even more, there's a kids menu with choices like bbq pork sliders and kids get free cotton candy once they finish their meal!

Good to know: Park 101 also hosts many family-friendly events including trivia nights, movie nights in the park and Mom's Who Mimosa to name a few. 

3040 Carlsbad Blvd.
Carlsbad, CA
760-434-2217
Online: park101carlsbad.com

Farmer & The Seahorse

Farmer & The Seahorse

One of our favorite brunch spots, Farmer & the Seahorse has an expansive play area complete with several corn hole games, balls and frisbees that kids can throw on the lawn, a grassy area to run and play tag or to use hula hoops or a parachute or stack the large outdoor Jenga game. The restaurant also has a rotation of indoor board games such as  Scrabble to enjoy. Be sure to check out their new lunch and brunch menus. Go indulge in their fresh Korean Picnic Salad while the kiddos play. 

Insider's Tip: There's live music every Sunday for adults. You'll love the serene, open air setting on the relaxing patio.

10996 Torreyana Rd.
La Jolla, CA
858-260-5401
Online: farmertheseahorse.com

Mendocino Farms

Diana A. via Yelp

Order up a healthy sandwich or salad at the counter of this charming eatery and let the kids enjoy the indoor and outdoor play spaces. They'll find a foosball table and corn hole on the front patio and giant chalkboard walls for drawing and playing tic-tac-toe in a nice sized nook for kids inside. You'll love the vegan Banh Mi sandwich, they'll love the grilled cheese.

12873 El Camino Real
Del Mar, CA
858-436-0000
Online: mendocinofarms.com

Bo-beau Kitchen + Bar

Sushant Z. via Yelp

School may be on holiday, but littles will beeline to the school bus that's adjacent to the patio to play while big folks chow down on French crafted menu items like porcini flatbread and grilled salmon. Dine inside or out. You'll find the basics for half-pints like chicken nuggets and quesadillas. 

Insider's Tip: Call ahead to book a table near the repurposed school bus so you can take a breather while the kids play back to school.

8384 La Mesa Blvd.
La Mesa, Ca
619-337-3445
Online: bobeaukitchengarden.com

Corvette Diner

Beth Shea

Head to Corvette Diner for some good, old-fashioned 1950s nostalgia. This Liberty Station restaurant practically screams family-friendly. It’s an old-school style diner with tasty eats and ice cream shakes. The best part is the huge arcade where you can buy a swipe card and have a blast. The employees offer some great entertainment too. Dressed in their best 1950s attire, the wait staff has been known to perform Grease classics and The Chicken Dance right in front of your table. If you’re there at the right time, kids will enjoy watching a magician perform tricks and a balloon artist make some fancy creations. Plan for a wait on the weekends; but remember you can pass the time in the arcade.

2965 Historic Decatur Rd.
San Diego, CA 92106
Online: cohnrestaurants.com/corvettediner

Landon's Gourmet Kitchen

Parent date night with the tots in tow? Yes! Landon’s is a fresh farm-to-table eatery that has kids care right in the restaurant! While you feast on delicious California cuisine, kids can go have a blast in the restaurant’s chic, supervised Playroom and opt to order a meal off the kids menu. Moreover, they can order a meal, read books, play with car racetracks and much more. Also, for older kids, there are video games, iPads and movies. Enjoy gourmet food and grown-up convo with your little tyke being cared for in the on-site playroom.

Read our full review of Landon's Gourmet Kitchen here.

San Marcos Neighborhood
1020 W. San Marcos Blvd., Suite 138
San Marcos, CA
760-798-0600
Online: landonsgourmetkitchen.com

Waypoint Public

Waypoint Public

Are your little ones wiggle worms? They can read, play games and kick back and relax or stay busy in the kids only special space at Waypoint Public. All while you dig in to the Hipster Hash and indulge in the "Orangealicious" brunch cocktail. Once they join you at the table, little eaters can chomp down the Cocoa Krispy French toast.

 

3794 30th St.
San Diego, CA
619-255-8778
Online: waypointpublic.com

The Crack Shack

C L. via Yelp

The Crack Shack boasts food the whole family will love as well as a warm and inviting interior and a fun patio with outdoor seating that includes a sandbox for the kiddos. There's also a classy bar area for those who'd like a drink. Casual and local, this cool eatery in Encinitas is definitely worth a family trip.

407 Encinitas Blvd.
Encinitas, CA
760-230-2968
Online: crackshack.com

––Nikki Walsh, Leah R. Singer & Beth Shea

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31 Things Your Kids Should Be Doing Instead of Homework

By Jessica Smock

There are many aspects of my more than decade-long career as a teacher that I’m proud of. My reputation for giving lots and lots of homework is not one of them.

For most of my teaching career, I taught fifth or sixth grade. Sometimes I gave more than two hours of homework. Kids complained a lot, though parents rarely did, at least not to my face. I think parents mostly felt the same way I did: that homework was the best way to practice new skills, that it teaches responsibility and helps to develop a strong work ethic, and that it’s an opportunity to reflect on new learning.

But most of all, my students’ parents and I were more than a little afraid that our kids would fall behind – behind their classmates in the next classroom, behind the kids in a neighboring school, behind the kids in other countries. Homework was considered one of many ways to prevent that from happening.

I wasn’t entirely wrong about all of that, and I still believe a lot of those things. But only for middle and high school students (and not hours of assignments). Not for elementary students, and certainly not for kindergarteners or preschoolers.

When I entered a doctoral program in education policy, I learned about the research that suggests that homework is not good for young kids. Not only does it fail to improve the academic performance of elementary students, but it might actually be damaging to kids’ attitudes toward school, and to their physical health. In a review of available research studies, Harris Cooper, a leading researcher who has spent decades studying the effect of homework, concluded that “there is no evidence that any amount of homework improves the academic performance of elementary students.”

When I became a parent during graduate school, I experienced for myself just how tired and overwhelmed kids can be after a full day at daycare, preschool, or elementary school, often followed by more after school activities. After hours spent sitting and engaging in mostly adult-directed activities, children’s minds and bodies need other kinds of experiences when they get home, not more academics.

It’s not just that homework itself has no academic benefits for little kids, and may even be harmful, it’s also that homework is replacing other fun, developmentally appropriate, and valuable activities – activities that help them grow into healthy, happy adults.

So, what are some of the things kids could be doing in those hours between the end of the school day and bed time?

1 | Jump rope.

An important part of how young kids’ minds develop is through free, self-directed play. According to David Elkind, Ph.D., author of The Power of Play: How Spontaneous, Imaginative Activities Lead to Happier, Healthier Children, free play is critical now more than ever, as recesses are shortened or eliminated, and kids’ calendars are busier than ever.

“Through play,” Elkind writes, “children create new learning experiences, and those self-created experiences enable them to acquire social, emotional, and intellectual skills they could not acquire any other way.”

2 | Talk with parents.

I’ve heard from countless friends about their daily battles with their elementary-aged kids struggling to do homework, and the way it’s negatively affected their relationships.

Instead, of parents nagging their overtired kids to do homework they’re too young to do independently, families should spent much time talking together about their day. In fact, conversation is the best way for all of us – especially young children – to learn about our world and cultivate empathy.

3 | Sleep.

The National Sleep Foundation estimates that between 25 and 30% of children aren’t getting enough sleep. Lack of sleep can cause all sorts of problems in kids, including poor attention, behavior problems, academic difficulties, irritability, and weight gain. But even small amounts of additional sleep can have big impacts. One study found that only 20 additional minutes of sleep can improve kids’ grades.

4 | Independent reading.

Most of us know that developing good habits (and hopefully a love of reading) is critical to doing well at school. However, homework can actually interfere with the time that kids can spend on reading.

5 | Listen to a book.

Studies show that kids who are read aloud to do better in school and have better vocabularies.

6 | Work on a puzzle.

Being able to play on their own without adults (called “solitary play”) builds confidence in kids and makes them more relaxed.

7 | Go up a slide backwards.

“Risky” play — activities like climbing a tree — is good for kids. Children need to explore their own limits, to be able to assess risks, and to learn how to negotiate their environments.

Researchers theorize that risky play, found across all cultures and in other mammals, has a evolutionary role in preparing offspring for life without their caretakers.

8 | Dig in the dirt.

Another type of play, sensory play, is also critical for kids’ development. When kids knead clay or finger paint, they are stimulating their senses. “Sensory experiences,” explains one early childhood educator, “provide open-ended opportunities where the process is more important than the product; how children use materials is much more important than what they make with them.”

9 | Playing with a friend in a sandbox.

Parallel play, or the type of play in which kids play next to each other, begins in toddlers. But even for older kids, parallel play can help develop critical social skills.

10 | Help with dinner.

Kids who learn about new foods, and how to prepare them, may be more likely to choose more nutritious foods later on.

11 | Walk the dog.

Kids who help take care of family pets may be less anxious, less likely to develop allergies and asthma, and are more active.

12 | Volunteer at an animal shelter.

Even kids who don’t have pets at home can benefit from being around animals. The emotional and psychological benefits of being around animals can also be found when kids care for injured animals and take on care-taking responsibilities for other people’s pets.

13 | Plant a garden.

Kids who work in gardens may have higher achievement scores in science than those who don’t. That’s because they’re actively engaging in scientific concepts and practicing math skills as they learn about plants.

14 | Practice an instrument.

Kids who participate in musical activities – those who practice an instrument regularly and participate actively in music groups – may have brains who are better wired for literacy skills, according to one study.

15 | Hang out at Grandma’s.

Encouraging multi-generational relationships can yield many lessons for kids. They can learn how other adult role models in their lives who love them handle conflict, create and negotiate rules and routines, and embrace family traditions.

16 | Participate in a community service project.

Through volunteering, kids can become more grateful, empathetic, and feel more connected to the wider community.

17 | Draw a picture.

For kids who have trouble expressing themselves verbally, drawing can be a way for them to relax and communicate in a different way.

18 | Do a science experiment.

Kids are naturally curious and want to know how things work. Scientific exploration outside the classroom may be particularly effective at teaching kids about scientific thinking.

19 | Play dress up.

The significance of imaginative “pretend” or “fantasy” play for kids’ creativity and future problem-solving skills is difficult to overstate. When kids pretend they’re superheroes or talk to stuffed animals, they’re learning about social roles, setting the stage for later learning, and processing ideas from the world around them. In fact, some research suggests that kids who don’t engage in fantasy play may actually struggle in the classroom later.

20 | Wrestle with a sibling.

“Rough and tumble” play is not the same as aggression. It’s vigorous, free-form, whole-body, energetic, happy play.  Kids learn decision-making skills, relieve stress, improve their ability to read social cues, and enhance their cardio-vascular health.

21 | Clean their room.

When kids are spending their afternoons working on homework, there’s often not time for them to help out with housework and other chores. A University of Minnesota researcher, Marty Rossman, found that one of the best predictors of a kid’s future success is whether they contributed to household chores as a young child.

According to Rossman, “Through participating in household tasks, parents are teaching children responsibility, how to contribute to family life, a sense of empathy and how to take care of themselves.”

22 | Write a story.

By writing down stories, kids can express their feelings, stretch their imaginations, and practice their fine motor skills.

23 | Zone out.

Just as important as play is “down time.” The authors of “Overloaded and Underprepared: Strategies for Stronger Schools and Happy, Successful Kids“ argue that every kids needs PDF: playtime, downtime, and family time.

Downtime is when kids are allowed to literally do not much of anything, like sit around and listen to music or stare at the ceiling. These moments allow children to reflect, rest, and reset their minds and bodies.

24 | Meditate.

Kids also benefit from meditation. Studies have found that mindfulness and meditation can improve behavior, focus, and reduce impulsiveness.

25 | Create a collage.

“Constructive play” – building a fort, making a snowman – is goal-oriented and involves kids building something using tools and materials. Constructive play also has an important role in developing children’s communication, mathematical, and socio-emotional skills.

26 | Listen to classical music.

One study found that playing classical music to children can improve their listening and concentration skills, as well as self-discipline.

27 | Learn to knit.

Knitting, sewing, and crocheting are hobbies that can help enhance fine motor skills, improve coordination, and develop longer attention spans.

28 | Take pictures.

“Photography can help develop a child’s voice, vision and identity as it pertains to their family, friends and community,” according to one photographer who teaches photography to children in Canada.

29 | Ride a bike.

Kids who are physically active – as well as adults! – have stronger hearts, lungs, and bones. They are less likely to develop cancer or be overweight and more likely to feel good about themselves.

30 | Listen to a long bedtime story.

Babies, children, and adult sleep better when they have a regular (not rushed) bedtime routine. Kids who don’t have bedtime routines are more likely to have behavior problems, be hyperactive, and suffer from emotional difficulties.

31 | Play “Simon Says.”

During cooperative games, kids collaborate to reach a common goal. There may be a leader, and kids start to learn about social contracts and social rules.

When homework is assigned to young children, it doesn’t improve academic learning. In any case, the learning done in school is only one form of learning. Homework takes away from the time available to engage in endless other forms of learning, such as social, physical, and emotional, as well as rest.

Our kids deserve a chance to spend all their other hours outside of school doing their most important job of all: being a kid.

This post originally appeared on Parent.co.

Featured Photo Courtesy: Pexels

Jessica Smock is a writer, editor, former educator, and a mom to a six year old son and a toddler daughter. She has a doctorate in development and educational policy from Boston University. She can be found at School of Smock, where she blogs about parenting and education.

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