Summer, and the hot weather that comes with it, is just around the corner, which means preparing yourself for spending hours near/in/by the water. Your best bet? Swimming pool games don’t require props and promise hours of poolside perfection for mom and dad. From Marco Polo to sharks and minnows, our favorite pool games mean one thing: you’ll be traveling light all summer long. If you don’t have your supply of swimsuits yet, be sure to check out the best suits for every mom bod and our favorite swimsuits for kids!

Wishing Well

Similar to Treasure Dive, Wishing Well sends players on a search for coins at the bottom of the pool. This version, however, involves lining participants up shoulder-to-shoulder with their backs to the pool while someone throws a handful of loose coins into the water. The players then dive into the pool to collect the coins before they land on the bottom. Let the players keep their coins as a prize or collect them all and toss them again.

Popsicle

If you’ve ever played freeze tag on dry land, this is exactly that, only in the shallow end of the pool. Start with one person as “it,” and have him or her tag the other players, who are swimming. When tagged, a player must stand frozen like a popsicle until another un-tagged player can thaw him out by swimming underwater between his legs. Just be sure to change the “it” person every so often to avoid having pouty kiddos in the pool.

Treasure Dive

Who needs fancy dive sticks or expensive torpedoes when you’ve got a public pool and a kid with goggles? Just in case you’re a little afraid of what Junior might find, take a handful of coins and toss them in the water to focus his search.

Funny Hair Competition

You know you’ve done it. If you ever had hair longer than shoulder-length, you’ve done the George Washington (emerged from underwater with your hair flipped down over your face, then rolled it back over your head for a stylin’ Colonial-era ‘do). Other classics include the dinosaur (spiked hair), Princess Lea (dueling buns), and the sweet roll (spiraled over the entire head).

Submarine Races

Racers become human submarines as they race underwater to see who can get the farthest without emerging for air. The key to a successful submariner is a strong start, followed by efficient flutter kicks. Some have been known to dive deep early so as not to lose momentum on the surface mid-pool.

Underwater Tea Party

Goggles come in handy here. In an underwater tea party, two players must sink to the bottom of the pool where they sit criss-cross-applesauce and partake in a fancy tea fit for a queen. Pouring from imaginary teapots, stirring imaginary cups of tea, offering each other lumps of sugar, and passing trays of finger foods and sweets are par for the course.

Sharks & Minnows

While there's debate as to the proper starting position of the minnows (in the water or out of the water on the far side of the pool), and variation exists on the proper call to action by the shark (“Sharks and minnows, one, two, three. Fishies, fishes, come to me!” versus “Fiiiishies! Come out and plaaay!”), there’s no debate this classic swimming pool game will be entertaining our children’s children for summers to come. Could there be anything more thrilling than narrowly escaping the touch of the treacherous shark?

Octopus

The goal is to be the last swimmer unattached to the human chain of “outed” participants. The octopus begins with one player who tags another player who then must link arms with one another (hence the growing octopus). As the octopus grows and the number of unlinked players diminishes, it gets trickier and trickier to evade the “tentacle” of players in the pool.

kids playing pool games
iStock

Atomic Whirlpool

Part pool game, part magic trick, this game involves a line of kids inside the pool but along the edge (in the shallow end). Have them walk, then jog, then race as fast as they can—still in single file—around the perimeter of the pool and then yell “switch!” When they turn to run in the opposite direction, the current will keep them from running, but certainly, increase the laughter factor. Bonus? Running in the pool will wear. them. out.

Chicken Fight 

We give the namesake of this game two thumbs down, but the pool game is a solid 10 in our book. Be sure to set the bar high when you define the rules of engagement before shouldering up. Chicken fights are played with a minimum of four participants (two “bases” and two “chickens” who each climb onto the other player’s shoulders). A chicken can push, pull, tickle, tackle, and splash the other chicken off its base to dominate as World Chicken Champion (until the next round, anyway).

Pool Pizza

This variation on colors involves one person—the “it” one—being named the chef. Other players pick their favorite pizza topping and group together. When the chef calls out their topping, those players swim to the other side of the pool. If the chef catches you, however, you go straight into the pizza “oven” (the out area, usually on the stairs or along one wall).

Mermaid Splash

Little mermaids take turns swimming with their ankles together, then go underwater and rocket out of the water with their arms in the air (a la Ariel in The Little Mermaid) to see who can jump the highest out of the water.

Slingshot

Who doesn't have a great memory of being catapulted from the water by mom or dad? Turn this classic parent-child bonding (or sibling) sesh into a friendly competition to see who can go the furthest, the highest, or do the coolest trick in the air.

Splash Dance

Choreograph your own water ballet to go with one of your favorite songs. Perfect for a solo endeavor or with friends (think synchronized swimming), this pool game is video-record-ready!

Secret Message

Think Telephone but underwater. For this swimming pool game, choose one person to relay the message (usually one or two words). Then the "guesser" goes underwater with the messenger and tries to guess what they're saying. You can make it easier by offering hints like theme, color, category, etc. Kids who don't swim in deep water can participate in this pool game because they can dip their faces in to hear the message. 

kid playing pool games in the summer
LeeAnn Cline via Unsplash

F.I.S.H.

Similar to P.I.G. in basketball, the first player in F.I.S.H. is the leader, and the other players must follow exactly what the leader does. Jump from the side, do a certain dive, perform a choreographed pool number—whatever the task, the players must follow it or be given a letter from F.I.S.H. The first player to spell F.I.S.H loses the game.

Belly Flop Competition

Similar to a cannonball competition but without the showmanship mid-flight, the belly flop competition is all about the biggest smack of flesh on water. Who needs a cool flip mid-air when everyone knows you’re going for surface-area-to-contact records?

Categories

With this game, the more swimmers you have, the merrier (but we know of confirmed rounds of Categories involving only two players, so work with what you’ve got). Begin by choosing someone to be "It." The selected player chooses a category other players are familiar with (think colors for the small set, or candy bars for the older kids). "It" stands outside of the pool with their back turned from the water and all other players line up directly underneath them with their hands on the wall, waiting for their selection to be guessed. If it is, the player tries to swim to the other side of the pool without being tagged out.

Cannonball 

Best performed from a springy, 1980s-era diving board, cannonball competitions are similar to dance-offs; each participant tries to “up” the next with their artistic interpretations mid-flight and ultimately, by the size of her splash.

Air Ninja

Adrenaline, meet categories. Starting on the side of the pool in a jump-ready position, count “1,2,3” and then your choice of any animate or inanimate object. Kiddos will leap into the air, strike their pose, and come up for air giggling. Some sure-fire objects they’ll love to imitate are tigers, turtles, and trees, but the more creative you get, the more they’ll beg for more.

Pool Tag Survivor

Chose one player to be "it." The chosen player then yells out "dolphin," "froggy," or "submarine." Dolphins swim on top of the water, froggies swim in the middle, and submarines swim at the bottom of the pool. Whoever is "it" must close their eyes and try to tag the other players. When a player reaches the other end of the pool, they yell out "Survived!" Players who get tagged decide which one is "it" next. 

Marco Polo

Forget Marco Polo who was the first European to reach China. In America, if it’s June, July, or August, Marco (Polo!) is the king of the pool. “Marco” catches other players based on their reply to his call, and there’s no adrenaline-like daring to be the fish out of the water! Just like tag, only in water and with your eyes closed, how many hours did you spend playing this easy but exciting pool game as a kid?

 

 

Got a little comedian in your household? These Valentine’s Day jokes for kids are sure to crack a smile sweeter than any chocolate. Let the kids memorize a few to share with friends, or write them on a note for V-Day lunches. Either way, you’re sure to get a laugh, a hug, and probably at least one eye roll. If your kiddo needs more joke material to work with, try out our other jokes for kids. If you’re looking for other Valentine’s Day fun for kids, check out these DIY gifts they can make for friends or loved ones, and Valentine’s Day-themed food and treats they’ll love.

Valentine's Day Jokes for Kids
iStock

1. What do you call the world's smallest Valentine’s Day card?
A valen-teeny.

2. What did the stamp say to the envelope on Valentine’s Day?
I’m stuck on you!

3. What did one volcano say to the other?
I lava you!

4. What did the cucumber say to the pickle?
You mean a great dill to me.

5. How did the phone propose to his GF?
He gave her a ring.

6. What did the one sheep say to the other?
I love ewe!

7. And how did the other sheep respond?
You’re not so baaaaaa-d yourself.

8. What did the farmer give his wife for Valentine’s Day?
Hogs and kisses.

cute kids with paper hearts smiling at Valentine's Day jokes for kids
iStock

9. And what did the tweenager give his mom? 
Ughs and kisses!

10. What did one light bulb say to the other light bulb on Valentine’s Day?
I wuv you watts and watts!

11. What do you say to an octopus on Valentine’s Day?
I want to hold your hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand, hand!

12. What do you call a ghost’s true love?
Their ghoul-friend.

13. What do you write in a slug’s Valentine’s Day card?
Be my Valen-slime!

14. Knock Knock
Who's there?
Luke
Luke who?
Luke who got a Valentine!

15. Why is Valentine’s Day a good day for a party?
Because you can really party hearty!

16. What kind of flowers should you NOT give on Valentine’s Day?
Cauliflowers!

17. What do owls say to declare their love?
Owl be yours!

18. What did one bee say to the other? 
I love bee-ing with you, honey!

Valentine's Day Jokes for Kids
Obi Onyeador via Unsplash

19. Knock Knock
Who's there?
Olive
Olive who?
Olive you!

20. Why do skunks love Valentine’s Day?
They are very scent-imental creatures.

21. What’s the best part about Valentine’s Day?
The day after when all the candy is on sale.

22. What did the painter say to her sweetheart?
I love you with all my art.

23. What did Robin Hood say to his girlfriend?
Sherwood like to be your valentine.

24. Why did the sheriff lock up her boyfriend?
He stole her heart.

25. What do you call two birds in love?
Tweethearts!

26. What shade of red is your heart?
Beat red! 

27. What did one cat say to the other cat on Valentine's Day?
Don't ever change, you're purrrfect.

28. Why would you want to marry a goalie?
Because he (or she) is a real keeper!

Valentine's Day Jokes for Kids
iStock

29. What type of shape is most popular on Valentine's Day?
Acute triangle. 

30. Have you got a date for Valentine's Day?
Yeah, it's February 14th. 

31. What did Frankenstein's monster say to his bride on Valentine's Day?
Be my Valenstein! 

32. What flowers get the most kisses on Valentine's Day?
Tulips (two-lips). 

33. Who always has a date on Valentine's Day?
A calendar. 

34. Knock knock! 
Who's there?
Atlas!
Atlas who?
Atlas, it's Valentine's Day! 

35. What kind of candy is never on time?
Choco-LATE.

36. Why was the rabbit happy?
Because somebunny loved him!

—Joshua Y., age 9

37. Why don't you ever date a tennis player?
Because love means nothing to them.

—Joshua N. 

38. What do girl snakes write at the bottom of their letters?
With love and hisses.

 

Valentine's Day Jokes for Kids
iStock

39. What did one squirrel say to the other squirrel on Valentine's Day? 
I'm nuts about you!

40. What did the raspberry say to his valentine? 
I love you berry much. 

41. What's the most romantic utensil? 
A fork because it has Valen-tines. 

42. What Valentine's message was on the honeycomb?
Bee mine.

43. What did one oar say to another? 
"Can I interest you in a little row-mance?" 

44. What are artichokes known for? 
Their hearts. 

45. On Valentine's Day, what did the calculator say to the pencil? 
"You can count on me."

46. What kind of candy is always late on Valentine's Day? 

Choco-LATE

47. What does a Jedi Master say on Valentine's Day?

Yoda one for me.

48. What did the magnet say to the paperclip?

I find you very attractive. 

49. What did the scientist say to their sweetheart?

"You must be made out of oxygen and neon because you are the ONe"

These are the newborn baby gifts that parents will love, too

Baby’s first holiday season is pure magic, and we’ve got the best newborn baby gifts to make it extra special for all the 0 to 6-month-olds on your list. You’ll find tummy-time faves, educational toys, keepsakes, and cuddly stuffies to love on. Shopping for lots of littles? Check out our gift guides for one-year-olds and 18- to 24-month-olds.

Gund My Little Food Truck Play Set

Gund My Little Food Truck Set is one of the best newborn baby gifts of 2023

We love a gift that grows with your baby! Infants will love holding the little sensory toys (like a crinkly taco and a squeaky burger) and putting them in and out of their plush case; when they’re older they can transition to imaginative games where they’re serving food from a food truck.

Gund My Little Food Truck Play Set ($21)—Buy Here!

Manhattan Toy Snuggle Pods Sweet Pea

Manhattan Toy Snuggle Pods Sweet Pea is one of the best newborn baby gifts of 2023

A first doll perfect for six-month-olds, this snuggly little baby comes in their own peapod home. Little hands will love taking their super-soft pal in and out of her pod. Since we’re sure it’ll be love at first sight, you might want to give two of these cuties (in case one goes missing *shudder*).

Manhattan Toy Snuggle Pods Sweet Pea ($24)—Buy Here!

Mushie Links Teether

Mushie Links Teether is one of the best newborn baby gifts of 2023

How beautiful is this? Babies will put just about anything in their mouths, so why not give them a teether or two that are soothing and aesthetically pleasing for parents, too. This Mushie option also comes in calming blue, beige, and sand. *adds to cart*

Mushie Links Teether ($22)—Buy Here!

Melissa & Doug Ice Cream Take-Along Toy

The Melissa And Doug Ice Cream Take Along Toy is one of the best newborn baby gifts

From the stroller to their car seat, babies will love this clip-on vibrating pull toy. As they get to know each of the four ice cream scoops and sensory tags and teethers, you’ll be able to get some stuff done. Definitely one of the best newborn baby gifts this year. 

Melissa & Doug Ice Cream Take-Along Toy ($20)—Buy Here!

Soft Tummy Time Book and Mirror

Tummy time can be such a drag, but your newborn’s sure to be entertained by this multifaceted gift. Your tot can have a tummy party with themselves thanks to the mirror, make some new animal friends on the soft pages, squish the crinkly paper and play with other textures, and attack the gummy orange teether.

Soft Tummy Time Book and Mirror ($35)—Buy Here!

Fox Warmies

Warmies Fox is one of the best newborn baby gifts of 2023

Weighted with buckwheat that you can warm up in the microwave, this super soft woodland stuffie is the soothing companion your baby doesn’t know how to ask for. Just be sure to keep an eye on their snuggles so they don’t get too close. Hot tip: Foxy makes a great heating pad, too.

Fox Warmies ($30)—Buy Here!

Haba Quartett Soft Block Set

Haba Quartett Soft Block Set is one of the best newborn baby gifts of 2023

Give the babes on your list a little STEM action with this foursome of plush cubes each boasting a different sound, color combination, and texture. The best part? They’re machine washable, so spit-up and drool are no match for this toy.

Haba Quartett Soft Block Set ($35)—Buy Here!

Over the Rainbow Music Box

Lull your baby to sleep with a bedtime rendition of "Over the Rainbow," played on this hand-painted, wooden music box. Twist the sun to hear up to three minutes of this favorite melody.

Over the Rainbow Music Box ($72)—Buy Here!

Fisher Price 3-In-1 Crawl and Play Activity Gym

The Fisher Price 3-in-1 Crawl and Play Activity Gym is one of the best newborn baby gifts of 2023

This activity gym does triple duty as your newborn grows. Tinies can bat at the rattles and teethers on their back while older babies love the mirror and singing watering can for tummy time. Once you’ve got a crawler, convert the mat into a little fort that also makes a great tunnel. Baby’s first clubhouse!

Fisher Price 3-In-1 Crawl and Play Activity Gym ($75)—Buy Here!

Plan Toys Sensory Tumbling Set

Plan Toys Sensory Tumbling Set is one of the best newborn baby gifts of 2023

Each of these adorable tumbling balls stimulates a different sense—red is touch, with its fluffy stuffing; blue is sound, thanks to three clanking balls; and with a mirror hiding inside, yellow is sight. And baby? Well, baby is endlessly entertained.

Plan Toys Sensory Tumbling Set ($25)—Buy Here!

Lulujo Security Blanket - Rainbow

Buttery soft cotton muslin lined in satin makes this the softest security blanket around, and we love that you get a set of two off the bat (always, always, always have a backup). Your baby’s not going to want to put these down!

Manhattan Toy Learning Cube ($35)—Buy Here!

Sassy The Mover & Shaker Sensory Toy Gift Set

This a baby gift hat trick for the six-month-olds on your list! Expect plenty of fine motor skills and sensory development as your bebe holds and gums the links, spins their rainbow reel (hello, high chair entertainment!), and learns to stack the colorful magnetic pals.

Sassy The Mover & Shaker Sensory Toy Gift Set ($19)—Buy Here!

Hallmark Under the Same Moon Recordable Storybook

Hallmark's Under The Same Moon Recordable Storybook is one of the best newborn baby gifts of 2023

If you live far away from the newborn on your gift list, record a special rendition of this sweet story just for them so they can always hear your voice. The beautiful illustrations are a bonus.

Hallmark Under the Same Moon Recordable Storybook ($35)—Buy Here!

7AM Enfant Cub Set

7am Enfant's Cub Set is one of the best newborn baby gifts of 2023

This is the coziest newborn baby gift by far! Transform your babe into a little bear cub with an adorable sherpa set that’s sure to keep their tiny hands and heads warm all winter long.

7AM Enfant Cub Set ($50)—Buy Here!

Manhattan Toy Wimmer-Ferguson Learning Cube

Manhattan Toy Learning Cube is one of the best newborn baby gifts

The best baby gifts can be used in lots of different ways to keep baby endlessly entertained. Take that longer-than-you-expected checkout line! This plush cube has six sides to explore, from crinkle paper and a textured teething ring to the elephant’s fun bungee trunk.

Manhattan Toy Learning Cube ($35)—Buy Here!

Malarkey Kids' Chew Tube

Once they’re past the newborn phase and teething is in full swing, this easy-to-grasp toy and teether is a parent’s dream. The textured silicone outer cube soothes tender gums while the black-and-white inner rattle cube is a sensory delight.

Malarkey Kids' Chew Tube ($13)—Buy Here!

Rookie Humans In the Jungle Swaddle Blanket

Rookie Humans In the Jungle Swaddle Blanket is one of the best newborn baby gifts of 2023

We’re smitten by the safari print on this luxuriously soft swaddle, perfect for keeping baby cozy while they sleep, acting as a light blanket in their stroller, or—dare we say—mopping up the odd puddle of spit up.

Rookie Humans In the Jungle Swaddle Blanket ($25.00)—Buy Here!

Black & White Board Book: A High Contrast

An absolute classic newborn baby gift, this board book by award-winning photographer Tana Hoban folds out entirely and is sturdy enough to stand on its own during tummy time. Littles love the high-contrast black-and-white images, which help to develop their eyesight.

Black & White Board Book ($7)—Buy Here!

Baby Einstein Take Along Tunes Toy

Baby Einstein Take Along Tunes Toy is one of the best newborn baby gifts of 2023

This is one of the least annoying musical baby toys out there, which is why it’s been a staple on baby gift lists for a decade. Infants 3 months and older delight in pressing the colorful buttons to start the music and spinning the beads on the handle, and it’s easy to throw in your bag for on-the-go entertainment.

Baby Einstein Take Along Tunes Toy ($10)—Buy Here!

Curious Baby Activity Cards

This is truly a gift for first-time parents Googling “How to entertain a two-month-old” at 3 a.m. The convenient flip guide developed by pediatricians takes parents through games and activities that contribute to five different areas of a baby’s development, from birth to one year.

Curious Baby Activity Cards ($35)—Buy Here!

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our shopping editors.
If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.
All images courtesy of retailers.

Tickle your tot’s funny bone with silly jokes Seattle kids (and parents) will totally get

Need a little levity in your life? These Seattle jokes for kids are a great way to kick your day off in the right direction. Scroll down for silly jokes, corny jokes, and quite a few rain jokes. Share them with your little ones to get the laughs rolling!

Kate Loweth


1. Can a kid jump higher than the Space Needle?

Of course! Because the Space Needle can’t jump.

2. What did the Giant Octopus under the Tacoma Narrows Bridge eat for lunch?

Fish and ships.

3. What do you call monkeys who live in Seattle?

Amazon Prime-ates.

4. What do you call three orcas in Elliott Bay?

A tripod.

5. Why is Santa thinking about moving to Seattle?

Because of all the rain, dear.

6. What do you call a week without rain in Seattle?

Summer.

7. What did the geoduck say to the clam?

Can you dig it?

8. How do you make a SeaFair pirate angry?

Take away the “p.”

9. Heard any good jokes about the Cascades?

Yes, they are hill areas.

10. Why can’t Mt. Rainier and Mt. Baker play hide and seek?

Because they like to peak.

11. What did the kids say when the ferry finally pulled into the dock?

It’s a boat time.

12. What do Seattle kids have to watch out for?

Pier pressure.

13. In what state does the Columbia River flow?

Liquid.

14. What did Coach Carroll say to Russell Wilson when he dropped some change?

Hey, I want my quarter back.

15. What is the sea otter’s favorite Adele song?

Hello, from the Otter Side

16. What did the detective say when she got to Pike Street Market?

Something's fishy here.

17. What did the gum say to the gum wall?

I’m stuck on you.

18. Why is Seattle like L.A.?

You can seastars here, too.

19. What language do the I-90 and 520 bridges speak?

Span-ish.

20. Why does Mount St. Helens play so many video games?

Because it’s not very active.

Seattle Municipal archives

21. Why did the leprechaun want to move to Washington?

Because it’s the evergreen state.

22. Where’s a leprechaun’s favorite place to jog?

Green Lake.

23. Why is Kyle Seager like a spider?

He catches flies.

24. What did Bugs Bunny say when the ferry pulled in at Fauntleroy?

What's up dock?

25. Ouch! I banged my head on 99…

…Mom said I would’ve been okay if viaduct.*

(*we miss you, 99 viaduct!)

26. How do aliens get vaccinated?

With a Space Needle. (Orion, age 10)

27. When do you need an umbrella for hiking?

When you're climbing Mt. Rain-ier. (Orion, age 10)

 

 

Wait until you see the McDonald’s french fry toddler Halloween costume!

There’s no doubt your little pumpkin will look adorable in any costume, but if you’re eager to flex your creative spirit this Halloween and pull out all the stops for that must-have photo op, you’ve come to the right place. From stunning and elaborate to creative and hilarious, we’ve narrowed our top picks for the cutest and most clever toddler Halloween costumes. We can almost hear the “oohhs” and “awwws” now!

Teal, Yellow and Pink Butterfly

If you’re looking for a unique, show-stopping costume, this butterfly flutters to the top of the pack. To make this exact costume you’ll need Martha Stewart paints, stencils, and plenty of cardboard. Head over to Tell Love and Party for all the details.

Cabbage Patch Doll

The beauty of this toddler Halloween costume is that you can order it! Now, will they keep the wig on long enough to hit the trick-or-treat circuit? That’s another question all together.

Circus Animal Cookie

This circus animal cookie costume hits all the right notes. It’s colorful, cozy, and completely original. Visit A Joyful Riot for all the details on how to re-create this sprinkled-covered costume. Although this tutorial was technically designed for a baby, you can easily adapt it for a toddler or big kid. Just buy bigger clothes and be prepared to cut out a few more circles—it’s that easy!

Related: Family Halloween Costumes That Are a Freakin’ Delight

BB-8 & Rey

Halloween costume inspo is bubbling over on Lauren Mancke’s Insta feed. The talented designer highlights a costume (or three) a day throughout October. Mom to twin girls and a son Fox, she motivates everyone to scratch that creative itch and go big this season! She also offers tons of great ideas on family costumes, like this deep sea Odessey your whole crew will love.

Pretty Peacock

It may not feel like it, but the amount of time you’ll get to dress your kids up for Halloween is finite. So why not go all out while you can? This Peacock costume is stunning and will make for the most beautiful photos. Use this image as inspiration or follow this step-by-step tutorial to create a similar look.

Carousel Horse Toddler Halloween Costume

Save those amazon boxes! This DIY costume uses the most versatile material around—cardboard. Find all the details on A Joyful Riot, including a template that will get you on your way to replicating this amazing Carousel horse for your sweet trick-or-treater.

McDonald’s French Fry Box

The cutest fast food order we’ve ever seen. Even better, the accessories you’ll need can be picked up with a quick trip through the drive-through!

 

Astronaut Jetpack Costume

Sure you can find an astronaut costume online, but if you want to shoot for the stars you can create your own. Check out Bravery Magazine for all the details on how to make this out-of-this-world costume.

Related: Deceptively Easy Baby Costumes Made with a Onesie

Treasure Chest

Ahoy, me hearties! Why not turn your biggest treasure into a pirate’s booty this Halloween? Use this costume by Wild Ink Press as inspiration to turn that cardboard box into a golden treasure chest. Even better, you can play along by dressing up as a pirate yourself. Family costume, complete!

Awesome Octopus

Sewing skills are required for this adorable octopus costume, which comes complete with soft, squishy tentacles for your little one to play with. If you’ve got the skills and some time, the final result is so worth it. Check out the project at Mermagblog.

Army Guy

Halloween only comes around once a year! So if you don’t mind going through lots of green spray paint, this costume will turn heads and make your little soldier the talk of the town. Check out the full tutorial here. 

Rainbow Wagon

Incorporating a wagon into your toddler’s costume is brilliant for so many reasons. So, when we saw this rainbow weather costume from Studio DIY, we instantly fell in love. Use the wagon as a base, toss your little cloud in, and you’re guaranteed a night of trick-or-treating that doesn’t need to end early! There are tons of options for turning it into a family weather costume, like the sun and rain you see here or even a snowflake or lightning bolt for siblings.

Baby Owl Toddler Halloween Costume

Toddler Halloween Costume
The Love Notes Blog

Whooo is the cutest child around? Yours, of course. This DIY costume takes a little time and patience, but it’s worth it to see your baby owl looking cuteand feeling comfortablein the final result. For step-by-step instructions, go to The Love Notes Blog.

Birthday Cake Costume

A birthday cake for Halloween! Yes, please. This sweeter-than-sugar costume is just what you need to flex your creative spirit and give your little one a costume they’ll never forget. A Subtle Revelry shares all the details on how to make this dreamy fit.

Tiny Toadstool

Wispy House

This teeny, tiny toadstool makes an excellent sidekick for a mini Mario Bros or a fairy princess. Wispy House has all the info on how to make this magic mushroom.

 

Anytime you can get a deal on LEGO kits is a parent’s dream come true.

While LEGO stores don’t tend to share their deals in advance, there are a few sneak peeks the brick maker is sharing, in addition to other retailers who are already marking down towns of products. Keep reading to get some early sale picks!


Harry Potter Hagrid's Hut: Buckbeak's Rescue

$42 (Save $18) BUY NOW

Luke Skywalker’s Lightsaber

Gift only with purchase of the new LEGO® Star Wars™ AT-AT™.

BUY NOW

LEGO Classic Bricks and Animals 11011 Building Set

$30 ($29 off) BUY NOW

Santa’s Front Yard

Gift with purchase of $170+

BUY NOW

Deep Space Rocket & Launch Control

$81 ($19 off) BUY NOW

Holiday Tree Gift

In-store only gift with $40+ purchase

BUY NOW

VIP Gift: Fleece Blanket

Cyber Monday gift with purchase of $200 available only 11/29

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LEGO Art Marvel Studios Iron Man Canvas Art Set

$84 (Save $36) BUY NOW

––Karly Wood

All photos: Courtesy of LEGO

 

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If your little one is obsessed with PJ Masks we have some big news for you. PJ Masks will premiere an episode next week featuring a new character your kids are bound to love. Octobella will debut on Nov. 16, making her the third new character of the season following Newton Star and Munki-Gu earlier this year. 

According to the episode’s description, “There’s a new octopus-girl in the city, who wants to be a friend of the PJ Masks. But her actions tell a different story. Octobella shape-shifts into Gekko, ruining Gekko’s hero reputation.”

—Jennifer Swartvagher

Featured photo: Disney Junior

 

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For the time being, zoos and aquariums are closed. Many have virtually opened their doors to let your kids experience virtual field trips. Now, you can bring the animals home with you.

Google Animal 3D

Using your phone, search for any animal on Google. Next to the Wikipedia description, you will see a 3D picture of the animal. You will be given the option to “View in 3D.” Click that and the animal will appear on your screen against a white background. Below the 3D animal you will see a “View in your space” option. Click on that to give Google access to your phone camera. Now, the 3D animal will be inserted in your space.

The list of available animals includes:

  • Lion
  • Tiger
  • Cheetah
  • Shark
  • Hedgehog
  • Duck
  • Emperor penguin
  • Wolf
  • Angler fish
  • Goat
  • Rottweiler
  • Snakes
  • Eagle
  • Brown bear
  • Alligator
  • Horse
  • Shetland pony
  • Macaw
  • Pug
  • Turtle
  • Cat
  • Octopus
  • Dog

Happy animal spotting!

—Jennifer Swartvagher

Featured photo: Jennifer Swartvagher

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Whether President’s Day kicks off mid-winter break for your fam or liberates your weekend beyond two days, there are plenty of ways you and your little patriots can play around Seattle. From marine exploration to drum circle dances to races the whole family can run, we’ve got all you need to know. Read on!

1. Explore the world in miniature at the largest model show in the Northwest. See hundreds of detailed scale models, attend a free modeling seminar and build your own model to take home.

2. Bring the kids to Seattle Center to experience the cultures of our Pacific Northwest neighbors during Movin’ Around the World: Winter’s week-long celebration. Expect plenty of singing, dancing and hands-on activities to keep the kids entertained.

photo: by Tori Dickson

3. Take a much-needed break from the rain over President’s Day Weekend, with the Emerald City’s plethora of indoor activities. From museums and aquariums, to bookstores, art studios and trampoline parks, we’ve put together a list of 35 rainy day activities to keep everyone in your crew happy and entertained.

4. Feel wolf fur, hold a mountain goat skull, stroke a wolf pelt and get up close to dozens of native Northwest animals on President’s Day. It’s what Wild Child Weekends are all about.

photo: Northwest Trek

5. Break a sweat with your little patriots as you run, walk or jog the Presidents Day Weekend Run. The kids dash is a blast!

6. Party with the Junie B. Jones fan in your fam and players from the Tacoma Musical Playhouse. It’s all about stories, crafts and activities today.

7. School may be out, but camp is in session. Check out these 11 boredom-busting mid-winter break camps that kick off on President’s Day.

photo: Taproot Theater

8. Dance to the beat of African drums at a free library program highlights many voices in one land.

9. Watch as divers swim with a gigantic octopus in the Window on Washington Waters exhibit during Octopus Week at the Seattle Aquarium. In addition to learning about one of the coolest creatures in Puget Sound—the giant Pacific octopus—you and the kids can participate in special hands-on activities, octopus feedings, talks and more.

photo: Seattle Aquarium

10. Bundle up your crew spend the morning at Kelsey Creek Farm meeting pigs, ponies, goats and chickens. Oh my!

11. If you’ve ever wondered how to save sea turtles with technology and dance, or how basketball is related to science, AAAS Family Science Day is the place to be. Bring the kids to the Sheraton Grand downtown to have all your pressing science questions answered and more.

photo: iStock

12. Discover a new twist on an old tale at this newly opened Seattle Children’s Theater stage production.

13. Skate through the weekend at a local roller rink with your crew. You bring the skates, they provide the fun.

photo: Josh R. via yelp

14. Let it go at the Broadway stage production of Disney’s FROZEN at the Paramount.

15. Still looking for ways to keep your kids entertained over the three-day weekend and beyond? Check out our list of 50 fresh ideas for winter fun and get out and enjoy some play time together.

—Allison Sutcliffe & Kristina Moy

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