Being a San Francisco parent means you have a big heart and killer calves: you’ve hiked to the top of Nob Hill with a toddler in tow and we’re betting you’ve been on MUNI one too many times while pregnant. If you’re looking for boy baby names or girl baby names, from the Bay Bridge to Ocean Beach, we’ve revisited our favorite city’s streets and neighborhoods for some adorable baby name inspiration. Read on for the list!

Alma

Alma de Bretteville Spreckels was an old-school SF socialite and philanthropist who—along with her husband Adolph—gifted the city many an iconic institute including the Legion of Honor. Most famously, though, she’s the model for the statue in the middle of Union Square (Dewey Monument).

Andreas

There’s no reward without a little risk, and SF residents know that the San Andreas fault runs right through our city. It keeps us on our toes, like your little guy might! 

Angelou (or Maya)

The famous poet, activist and author who was awarded over 50 honorary degrees in her lifetime, was also the first African-American streetcar operator in San Francisco.

Ashbury

You have to be okay with a certain “aesthetic” to name your kid after this iconic street but you’ll likely get a free-thinker on your hands. Plus we think Ash is just the cutest nickname.

Bart

What could be more SF than naming your kid after the Bay Area Rapid Transit train?

Bay

The city by the bay couldn’t get more recognizable in this local name that also makes a perfect middle name, too.  

Broderick

You know it as the street, but did you also know it’s the last name of an abolitionist senator who died as a result of a wound inflicted during the last known duel within the boundaries of SF? Well, you do now. 

Cesar (or Chavez)

Both names pay homage to Cesar Estrada Chavez, a fierce fighter for civil and labor rights who co-founded (along with Dolores Huerta) National Farm Workers in 1962. You also know it as the name of what was once known as Army Street.  

Charlotte

For Charlotte L. Brown, who was one of the first people in the US to legally challenge racial segregation. In the 1860s Charlotte was removed (by force) from a horse-drawn street car for being a person of color. She filed a lawsuit. It took several years, but in 1865 she won.

Clayton

One of San Francisco’s lovelier streets, it’s also one of the shorter streets, starting at Fulton and winding its way up Ashbury Heights toward Twin Peaks where it affords some pretty stunning views.  

Clement

Home to a diverse array of foods and one of the best neighborhood farmer’s market in the City, we love the idea of naming a kiddo this and calling him Clem for short. Name for Roswell Clement who is often credited for the idea of creating Golden Gate Park.

Cliff

For something with a little versatility, this “regular” name comes from the iconic Cliff House (did you know they have the best breakfast biscuits in the West?). The Cliff House burned down in 1907 but was rebuilt, and rebuilt again to become the more modern structure that stands today.

Cole

Cole Valley has a rep for being one of the most kid-friendly hoods in the city, so why not name your kiddo for it, too?

Dolores

It’s not just a beautiful street name or your favorite park. It’s the namesake of the first mission in SF (which is also home to one of the only cemeteries within the city proper). Even more fun, it’s also the name of Dolores Huerta, who fought for migrant worker rights and co-founded National Farm Workers in 1962.

Duboce

This street and park are part of every N-Judah rider’s commute. Named after a colonel in command during the Spanish-American War (Victor Duboce). As long as you pronounce it right, you’ve got a sweet-sounding name that has a Parisian tinge to it.

Francisco or Francis

This is probably the most overlooked but most obvious name for any kid hailing from our city’s boundaries.

Gavin

Most people recognize him as Governor of California, but once upon a time, Gavin Newsom was our fair city’s mayor.

Geary

Why choose Gary when you can go with the totally San Francisco variation, Geary? One of the longest, cross-town streets in the city, Geary Blvd. takes you from Market Street all the way out to the ocean (and so does the 38!).

Harvey

Harvey Bernard Milk was the city’s first openly gay official, elected to the Board of Supervisors in 1951. Today we remember Harvey Milk for his courage and tenacity in standing out by standing up—a true San Francisco attitude. 

Hayes

It’s a valley, it’s a street and at one time was the last name of a prominent SF family. We think it would be an adorable first name, too.

Jack (London, Kerouac, Hirschman)

This classic name has plenty of SF-appeal: Jack London spent quite a bit of time in San Francisco throughout his years living at Beauty Ranch in Glen Ellen; Jack Kerouac became an adopted literary son of the city through the Beat Generation and Jack Hirschman was named SF Poet Laureate in 2006.

Juana

Want to name her something fierce? How about naming her after Juana Briones y Tapia de Miranda, the first female property owner in the state of California. She was born in Santa Cruz, of Spanish and African descent, and raised in the Presidio where she became known for being a healer and midwife.

Kamala

Before she was Vice President of the United States, Kamala Harris was San Francisco’s District Attorney from 2004 to 2011. She was born in Oakland and received her law education both at Howard University in D.C. and right in SF at the Hastings College of Law. 

Karl/Carl

If you’ve lived in SF anytime in the last decade, you likely follow Karl the Fog on Twitter. If not, newsflash: after all these years, our beloved fog has its own name. The “C” variant is also an SF street name.

Lawrence 

The founder of City Lights, the iconic North Beach bookstore and world-renowned publishing company, Lawrence Ferlinghetti turned 100 in 2019. To celebrate, the city of SF declared his birthday, March 24, officially “Lawrence Ferlinghetti Day.” Name your kid after this guy and we can promise spontaneous poetry will become a household thing. 

Leola

Leola King, aka the Queen of Fillmore, opened her first nightclub in the 1950s, back when Black-owned and women-owned businesses were scarce. She became a highly successful businesswoman and owned several properties and nightclubs, including the Birdcage. Her clubs hosted greats like Louis Armstrong and Ella Fitzgerald, helping establish the Fillmore District as the Harlem of the West.

Lillie

This perfectly sweet name has a pretty fierce backstory: Lillie Hitchcock Coit was a champion of SF firefighters and the benefactress who gave us the iconic Coit tower. Known also as Firebelle Lil, she was considered an eccentric woman who smoked cigars, wore pants (back when ladies weren’t supposed to) and gambled in male-only houses around North Beach.

Lombard

You love this crazy, curvy street every time your tourist relatives insist on snapping photos in front of it. It also makes a snazzy first or second name for a boy or a girl.

Lotta

The nickname of Charlotte Crabtree, Lotta was raised in the foothills of Grass Valley, CA during the gold rush where she honed her theatrical skills. Though she did perform frequently in San Francisco, her real legacy is Lotta’s Fountain—at Market and Kearny, the site of annual gatherings every April 18 to commemorate the Great Earthquake of 1906. Lotta frequently donated the money she earned as a stage performer for charities or to beautify the city she loved so well. 

Lowell

Lowell High School is the oldest public high school west of the Mississippi. It was founded in 1856 as the Union Grammar School but became Lowell in 1894. Though it was separated by genders for a time in its early history, Lowell High School was open to both boys and girls 1866.

Marina or Marin 

If you like the neighborhood you’ll love the name, but don’t forget it also means “of the sea” so it’s fitting for an SF kiddo no matter their zipcode. Alternatively, you could go with Marin, for our neighbors to the north.

Noe

Named for José de Jesús Noé, he served twice as alcade (essentially, a mayor) of Yerba Buena. One of his last acts while serving—along with Lt. Bartlett of the US Navy—was to officially rename Yerba Buena as San Francisco. At one time he owned land that covered much of what we now know as Noe Valley, Eureka Valley, Fairmont Heights, Glen Park and Sunnyside.

Posey

While he’s not a native SF-er, Giants catcher #28, Buster Posey, is as iconic an SF name as they come.

Vicki 

Vicki Manalo Draves was born in San Francisco, Vicki was the first woman ever to win two gold medals during one single Olympics. In 1948, not only did she receive two gold medals in diving, she also became the first Asian American ever to win a gold medal.

William or Willie (Brown, Leidesdorff, Mays)

Willie Brown was the 41st mayor of San Francisco and the city’s first-ever African American mayor. William Leidesdorff was an African-American who sailed to SF from the Virgin Islands in 1841 and became a respected, prominent businessman and politician. Willie Mays, one of the greatest baseball players of all time, spent his primary years playing (14 years) playing for the SF Giants (you’ll find his statue in front of AT&T—we mean Oracle—park). 

Make sure to capture all the adventures with your little San Franciscan—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.

The best local toy stores in the Bay Area to shop for one-of-a-kind toys, books, decor, clothing, and more

Who doesn’t love to shop local, especially during the holidays? What sets these small local businesses apart from big box chains is that everything that goes into the shop is thoughtfully selected, and more times than not, includes hard-to-find or toys and gifts you may have never seen before. This holiday season, check out some of the best toy stores in San Francisco and give a gift that is not only more meaningful, but also helps support your local community in the process.

 

The Best San Francisco Toy Stores

1. Mapamundi Kids

Mapamundi Kids is a boutique bursting with coolness and creativity. The colorful, light-filled shop is stocked with books, toys, clothes, and accessories from around the world for lucky kids and their design-minded parents. And as the owners state on their website, "We are designers, makers, shopkeepers, neighbors, citizens of the world and most importantly parents." And in true SF fashion, the toys are organic, sustainable, and fair-trade when they can be. 

1306 Castro St.
San Francisco
Online: mapamundikids.com

2. Tantrum

Tantrum offers a unique carnival-themed shopping experience from books and clothes to toys with a vintage slant. You'll spend hours browsing their brilliantly curated selection of local artists as well as hard-to-find European brands. You might find yourself walking out with a little something for yourself and your little one. 

248 Clement St.
San Francisco

Mill Valley Lumber Yard
129 Miller Ave Suite 101-B 
Mill Valley
Online: shoptantrum.com

3. Jeffrey's Toys

What began as a Five & Dime store in 1938, has blossomed into the oldest toy store in San Francisco. Jeffrey’s Toys has been a family-run business for over 60 years. Conveniently located off of Maiden Lane pop in here to find that that LEGO set you’ve been looking for all over town. Pro Tip: For any Stan Lee fans out there, bring your comic-book-obsessed child to relish the "comic corner."

45 Kearny St.
San Francisco
Online: jeffreys.toys

The Best Toy Stores in the East Bay

4. Mr. Mopps

Opened in 1962, this longtime institution is known and beloved all over the Bay Area. The owners boast that they are a unique toy store that does not carry TV or movie-licensed products, but instead tries to remain more old school. Mr. Mopps is a truly magical place—filled to the brim with toys, stickers, books, every stuffed animal of the under the sun, and even party supplies. Pro Tip: Voracious readers can pick up more books just four doors down at Mr. Mopps' annex bookstore.

1405 Martin Luther King Dr.
Berkeley
Online: moppstoys.com

5. Montclair Toyhouse

Nestled in the cute little neighborhood of Montclair is the oldest family-owned toy store in the East Bay. Since 1969, they’ve been showcasing their exotic plush toys plus free gift wrapping to win over the young and younger at heart patrons. MonclairToyhouse prides itself on its extensive selection of classic and current toys, and the staff is always warm and welcoming. Bonus: they offer free gift wrapping and free assembly.

6115 La Salle Ave.
Oakland
Online: montclairtoyhouse.com

6. Toy Safari

Located in Alameda, Toy Safari is a paradise for the whole family. Besides offering the very latest and greatest, Toy Safari also buys and sells toys and collectibles. The back of the store is a stroll down memory lane with displays of Transformers, LEGO bricks, and other 90s favorites. You might be tempted to finally complete your collection of action figures. Family-run for over 25 years, this is a must-shop kind of place. 

Good to Know: They also buy and trade new, used, and vintage toys—a great way to recycle toys in great shape.

1410 Park St.
Alameda
Online: toysafaritoys.com

The Best Toy Stores in the Peninsula & South Bay

7. Cheeky Monkeys

This toy store has been bringing joy to the little ones, winning awards and supporting the community of Menlo Park since 1999. From bath toys to school supplies, travel toys, collectibles and little critters, there isn’t much more a kiddo could wish for here. If Menlo Park feels too far, check out their website, which also has an impressive selection.

640 Santa Cruz Ave.
Menlo Park

173 Main St
Los Altos

8. Wooden Horse

When owner Sloan was a little kid, she used to run through the aisles of the original Wooden Horse in Old Town Los Gatos, wishing she could buy the whole store. Her wish came true when she and her husband decided to do just that and now they run their shop with love and care for every kid that crosses their threshold. They even host free workshops for parents, teachers, and students to learn about the value of play. Check out their extensive collection online for the holiday season.

796 Blossom Hill Rd.
Los Gatos
Online: woodenhorsetoys.com

The Best Toy Stores in Marin & North Bay

9. Five Little Monkeys

Bring all of your monkeys to this sweet little toy store in the Corte Madera outdoor shopping mall. They have everything from LEGOs to Bruder to Fat Brain to the ever-popular Melissa and Doug. Pro tip: Still need to let the wiggles out? There is a play area in the shopping courtyard.

131 Corte Madera Town Center
Corte Madera
Online: 5littlemonkeys.com

10. A Child's Delight

Since 1994, this toy store has been bringing smiles to children’s faces with its wonderful collection of toys, games, books, puzzles, or anything else their hearts desire. Known for their personable customer service and for having lots of toys out for the kiddies to try before you buy, if you run out of time, or your kids lose interest too soon, fret not, they have an extensive website to shop from. Free gift wrapping is available on all orders. 

105 Corte Madera Town Center
Corte Madera
Online: achildsdelight.com

 

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Taking care of sick kids is never easy. But these tips for fighting colds and treating symptoms should help.

With RSV making its way around plus it officially being flu and cold season, it’s a given you’ll be dealing with runny noses and fevers more than once this winter. Since it’s all (parents’) hands on deck when it comes to surviving long sick days with kids, we’ve created a guide to help you make it back to the land of the healthy.

From babies to big kids, sinus infections to body aches and fatigue, we’ve got ideas for what to do when your kid is sick: the best entertainment, how to maintain hydration, and even insider intel on superfoods that’ll help them say goodbye to the sickies. P.S. It turns out that bowl of chicken noodle soup is doing even more than you think! (Note: In the case of severe illness or symptoms, please seek professional medical help.)

How to Treat Symptoms

When It's a Baby

Aditya Romansa via Unsplash

There's more guesswork involved with treating a sick baby because they can't verbalize their symptoms, but we have plenty of comfort cures in our guide: 10 ways to soothe a sick baby to help your little bundle feel better in no time. 

When It's a Sinus Issue

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Sinus drainage during a cold or a bout of flu is a culprit of pain and frustration. That's why knowing how to relieve your kids of this nasty symptom is a must! Read our thorough information on how to treat sinus drainage.

Home Remedies That Help

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Use nature's potent power to help your kids heal and recover faster and make them more comfortable during illness. These home remedies pack a punch and will knock out icky ailments including a cough or a sore throat. You may even find you have many of these impactful ingredients on hand in your kitchen cupboard right now!

Home Entertainment for Sick Days

wondering what to do when sick? This little girl is having a sick day and she's reading books
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Books. Even when they're feeling awful, some kids still want to be entertained when they're not sleeping off an illness. Bookworms may appreciate the downtime to catch up on the best kids' books of the past year. Bonus: this will allow for snuggle time too!

Board Games. If your young patient is ready to sit up and have a little friendly competition, bust out a board game! These classic games will banish the sick day blues.

Activities. When your little sunshine is feeling dim, try one of these low-energy activities that will keep them occupied while conserving energy. Bringing a smile to their face could be as easy as having a tea party or setting up an indoor fort

Printables. Your kiddo may be feeling much better but it's still a 'sick' day because most schools say students need to be fever-free for 24 hours before returning to the classroom. Fill that lull between sickness and full steam ahead with these fun winter-themed activity sheets.

Podcasts. If the television is too bright or you want to turn off the tube, settle your kiddo down with a pair of headphones and a handful of podcasts. It will help pass the time, and they may even learn something, too!

little boy watching a tablet while having a sick day
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All Things Netflix & Other Must-See Movies

Shows that are perfect for binge-watching. Not sure where to start? These classic '90s TV shows will keep them entertained while lying on the family sofa.

But what's new? For the latest and greatest kid-friendly offerings on Netflix, here's an awesome list of all the kids' shows and movies coming to Netflix this month.

Opt for a must-see movie instead. Catch up on movies you've always wanted to watch with your kids but may not have had the time. These must-see family films will keep the whole household entertained. There are over 100 films on the list, so you're sure to find more than a few to enjoy!

Food & Hydration for Sick Days

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Make chicken soup. It's not just an adage after all! Chicken soup does help fight colds, according to science. Here's a homemade chicken noodle soup recipe that's easy to make.

Use the slow cooker. Taking care of a sick child leaves little time for cooking for the whole family. We've compiled a list of our favorite slow cooker recipes so family meals can simmer into completion while you tend to your little one.

Whip up comfort food. Perhaps your patient's appetite is still healthy even though they're under the weather. If that's the case, these comfort food recipes will help keep them fueled up and cozy.

If they've got an upset tummy. If your kids are suffering from nausea and/or vomiting, keeping liquids down will be a challenge. Help them stay hydrated by making homemade popsicles—bonus points for making a batch with hydrating and nutrient-rich coconut water.

Superfoods to the rescue! From carrot-orange juice to chocolate chia seed pudding, we've got plenty of recipes that use superfoods, which can help your kids battle any bugs.

What to Do for Yourself When Your Kid Is Sick

Dominik Martin via Unsplash

Practice self-care. If your kiddo's cold or flu has yet to bring you down, drink this cold-busting wellness tea that's loaded with germ-fighting fruits and spices. 

Use hand sanitizer. While washing hands is always the best option for preventing illness, a squirt here or there will help keep germs at bay if you can't get to a sink right away.  

Click to order. Are you out of cough syrup and popsicles? Instead of dragging your sick littles to the store, shop for the essentials and have them delivered to your front door. Here's our list of grocery stores that make home calls.

 

Editor’s Note: Tinybeans does not make any medical claims about curing serious illnesses in children. In the case of severe illness or symptoms, please seek professional medical help. 

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These indoor games for kids include things to do to play with friends and family, perfect for both solo and group play

Is the weather keeping you inside? No problem. The good news is that we’ve got a ton of indoor activities for kids that go beyond your normal play routine. From crafting your own robots to writing stories, here are more than 100 activities and inside games for kids that’ll keep everyone busy.

indoor activities for kids
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1. Introduce your kids to yoga with this beginner series.

2. From balloon sports to indoor hopscotch, we’re obsessed with these indoor activities that will get your kids moving.

3. Make music on your phone! Here are the best music-making apps for kids.

4. Create a stained-glass art window.

5. Learn about snowflakes in a whole new way with snowflake experiments. Bonus: you don’t need actual snow to pull them off.

6. Make a time capsule.

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7. Download a new kids’ album and host a dance party.

8. Forget the paintbrush. Use a comb instead to create your next masterpiece!

9. Upcycle your own newspaper into a crazy awesome dome.

10. You don’t need a ton of supplies to keep your kids entertained. Check out our ideas for fun kid games with three supplies or less.

11. Get your kids excited about learning words with these awesome dictionary games.

12. Sharpen those memory skills by playing a brain-boosting learning game.

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13. Create a rad rhino mask.

14. Sometimes you need indoor fun that lasts more than an hour. For fabulous long-term play projects click here.

15. Is your kid still learning how to tell time? We have five games that’ll help them get there.

16. Channel Ariel and make your own mermaid tail.

17. If they’re more into Ursula, try out one of these fun octopus crafts.

18. For a quiet afternoon, print out one of these awesome winter-themed activity sheets.

19. Intro. your kids to Scrabble with our version of the game that features two-letter words.

indoor activities for kids
Pink Stripey Socks

20. Show your kids how epic dragons really are with easy dragon crafts that’ll keep ‘em entertained all day long.

21. Send a hug to a family member or loved one far away with a DIY hug card.

22. Bend water with a comb.

23. Only have 10 minutes to spare? We've got 15 play ideas that'll do the trick.

24. Transform all your old and broken crayons into a stunning work of art.

25. Teach your kids how germs really work with a science experiment high on the fun (and gross) factor.

26. If you’re feeling less than energetic, try a low-key activity. We have 13 ideas to get you started.

indoor activities for kids
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27. Let your kids be their favorite Sesame Street character for the day.

28. Whip up a batch of glow-in-the-dark ice cubes.

29. Make your own harmonica with only four supplies.

30. Try your hand at creating a confetti balloon ball.

31. Use old toilet paper rolls to make binoculars.

32. Fashion jewelry out of food.

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33. All you need is 30 minutes to make your own dolphin.

34. Teach your kids a little more about yourself. Here are 10 questions they can ask you today.

35. Put pen to paper (or finger to keyboard) with three simple ideas to turn your kids into an author for the day.

36. Make poop (yep, you read that right).

37. Carving out quality family time doesn’t have to be challenging. Simply look at our guide for easy ideas.

38. Download a cool crop of apps geared toward kids who love to invent.

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39. Make an easy color wheel.

40. Learn about the importance of spit with this great experiment.

41. Never lose your place in your book again thanks to this DIY bowtie bookmark project.

42. Read a book or 100.

43. Let snowmen inspire snacktime. Take a peek at our favorite snowmen-inspired treats.

44. Use up those leftover gingerbread house gumdrops with a science experiment or two.

45. Did you know that Ziploc finger painting requires only two supplies? Get the scoop here.

indoor activities for kids
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46. You can never have too many books about construction. Book it to the library to check out one of our favorite books they’ll really dig.

47. Paint with popsicles.

48. Make Star Wars crafts with your force of nature.

49. Go beyond Monopoly with new family games.

50. Transform your toilet paper rolls. Here’s how!

51. Don’t throw out those popped balloons. We have the perfect craft to use those rubber pieces up.

creating a comic is a good indoor activity for kids
Melissa Hecksher

60. Write your own comic book.

61. Prep for spring and all the birds by making an egg carton bird feeder.

62. For easy sensory play, explore the temperature and texture of ice.

63. Skip that ship in a bottle. Try out a cork boat instead.

64. Shake up free time with a subscription box.

65. If saying the word “poop” is a surefire giggle-maker, you’ll want to check out these yucky (and so fun) games for the whole family.

66. Did you know you can make a lunchbox out of a plastic water jug? Get the tutorial here.

67. Play a game that helps with hand-eye coordination. Bonus: there’s a barnyard twist.

Annie Spratt on Unsplash

68. Before there were smartphones, there were maps. Pass the paper reading map skills down a generation by showing your kids how to read a map, old-school style.

69. Paint like Van Gogh.

70. Make edible art that the kids can eat.

71. Transform empty bottles into a scuba tank.

72. Take some time to teach your kids about a historic icon: Frederick Douglass.

73. It may be gloomy outside but you can still spot a rainbow thanks to these four clever ways of making your own.

74. Lounge in style with a homemade hammock.

75. Use air (hey, it’s cheap!) for your next science experiment.

indoor activities for kids
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76. Make your own bubbles.

77. Make a terrarium for your kid's favorite prehistoric pal.

78. Cast a spell with a pretend potion.

79. Play a game of sniff-and-seek.

80. Learn a new magic trick (or seven!).

81. Paint rocks to hide outside on a sunny day.

82. Craft your very own shooting star.

83. Score a new set of wheels. Here are 10 cool trains you can make at home.

indoor activities for kids
Aditya Chinchuren via Unsplash

84. Break out the deck of cards to learn these easy card games and tricks.

85. Even if you can’t run around outside you can still play football. Paper football that is.

86. It’s Girl Scout cookie season (YES!). To celebrate, learn two Girl Scout songs today.

87. Write your own fairy tale. Use our fill-in-the-blank story to get started.

88. Fold an origami teddy bear.

89. Check out our ideas for pretend play you can set up (and enjoy!) in one afternoon.

90. Create your own puppet theater.

indoor activities for kids
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91. Make the kids LOL with 300+ hilarious jokes.

92. Practice counting with these clever hacks.

93. Check out nine sand play ideas. No beach required!

94. Create your own family laws just for today. Use these five ideas to get you started.

95. Learn how to make shadow puppets.

96. Make a no-batteries-required robot. We've got three awesome projects.

97. It’s time for a geography lesson. Get started with our Name That State printable.

 

indoor activities for kids
Gabby Cullen

98. Embrace the mess with these confetti poppers fun for any time of year.

99. Make your own I Spy Jar.

100. Changing the world is easier than you may think. Check out our handy guide for kids here.

101. Make your own tic-tac-toe board.

102. Keep kids busy with a new activity book or two.

103. Take craft time to the next, out-of-this-world level with a fun alien craft.

104. Make a bird feeder out of an empty soup can.

105. Finally, for the mom and dad who have crafted, created, entertained, and danced, you deserve a pat on the back ... and maybe even a glass of wine. Make things interesting with our wine bingo printable you can download. Cheers!

It’s sweater weather! How many things can you check off this fall bucket list?

The weather might be cooling off, but that doesn’t mean your family adventures have to slow down. In fact, this is THE season for fun family activities, like pumpkin patches, corn mazes, Halloween costumes, and much more. Add any of these ideas to your fall bucket list to make sure it’s a truly epic season.

1. Take a weekend road trip. Turns out summer hasn’t completely cornered the market on family road trips. Fall is a great time to plan one too. From changing leaves to pumpkin patch odysseys, there’s plenty to see all season long!

2. Jump in a leaf pile. It doesn’t get any easier than the tried-and-true “rake, gather and repeat” to help the kids hop into autumn.

3. Attend a fall festival. It seems like almost everything has its own festival during the harvest season. See our picks for the best fall festivals in the country here.

4. Build a bonfire and make s’mores. While you can do this anytime, there’s something about those chilly nights that make this special. Amp up your s’mores game with these unique takes on the classic treat.

5. Take a wagon ride. That fall festival you’re attending? See if you can add a wagon ride in for old-fashioned fun.

6. Find or stash a Geocache. Let your phone guide you… to hidden treasures in your neighborhood. Seek one out, or stash one of your own for others to find. Get the whole story before you head out.

7. Do a fall-themed science experiment. From exploding pumpkins to learning about why leaves change color, we’ve got easy experiments you can set up in the afternoon.

8. Pick apples at a nearby orchard. U-pick, we pick, your kiddos will love picking bright crispy apples on a sunny day. See our favorite U-pick orchards here.

9. Check out the fall foliage. Court fall’s most colorful stars by taking a stroll around the ‘hood or hiking a tree-lined trail. See our favorite spots by clicking here.

10. Host an apple cider tea party. Tea parties are always fun. But, an apple cider tea party? How many times have you checked that off your fall bucket list?

Related: 13 Fall Science Experiments Perfect for Kids

a fun fall bucket list idea is to take a train ride
Allison Sutcliffe

 

11. Hop aboard a fall train ride. From cider sipping to leaf watching, to visiting Charlie Brown’s Great Pumpkin patch, historic trains are taking families to fall’s hottest spots.

12. Visit a haunted house. We’ve got the best ones for kids right here.

13. Whip up a few wicked (pretend) potions. ‘Tis the season for magic, spells, and easy afternoon fun. We rounded up our favorite potions kids can make here.

14. Go bird watching. Grab the binocs and a local birding guide from the library before heading out on this quiet adventure. Don’t forget to record your findings in a field note journal you can use year after year.

15. Jump in puddles. Embrace the changing weather and splash around a bit.

16. Visit your local botanic garden. Tiptoe through the fall colors at a botanic garden, where you’ll find more than just picture-perfect spots.

17. Build a fort outside. The weather is still nice enough for long outdoor afternoons. Take advantage and help your kids get set up with their own pad.

18. Make something with apples. Take all those apples you brought home from the orchard and put them to good use in one of these apple recipes.

19. Watch a Halloween movie. These are our favorite picks for the whole family.

20. Spend time on a swing. A fall bucket list favorite! Preferably under a tree whose leaves are changing color.

Related: The Best Places to See Fall Colors with Kids This Year

going to a baseball game is a fun fall bucket list idea
Melissa Browand

 

21. Take in one more ball game. Bundle up for one more game with peanuts, Cracker Jacks…and a specialty stadium hot dog, if you know what’s good for you. Through September families can catch a final baseball or soccer match before they focus their attention on football at one of our favorite family-friendly parks.

22. Have a fall-themed crafternoon. Fall is the perfect time to perfect your Pinterest game. Plus, we’ve got the best fall projects for kids right here.

23. Bob for apples. Because it’s fun. And you still have apples left from the orchard.

24. Play Halloween games. When else besides fall can you play Witch Pitch and Pop the Pumpkin?

25. Go on a leaf scavenger hunt. Put your little sleuth on the case of the missing leaves (identify the ones to find ahead of time: maple, oak, pecan, evergreen, etc.).

26. Go for ice cream. Or fro-yo. Or shave ice. Before it gets too cold to enjoy these chilly treats on a sunny day. You won’t regret it.

27. Play ball. Throw, kick, or bounce your way over to the local outdoor sports court or grassy park for quality (family) game time.

28. Pick pumpkins at a patch. Nothing says fall quite like the annual pumpkin patch outing. Let your sidekick climb the hay bales or jump in the corn bin while you sip hot apple cider nearby. We gathered the best patches from coast to coast.

29. Read books in the backyard. The fall weather invites you to grab a blanket and read outside. See our favorite books of 2023 (so far) right here.

30. Make hot chocolate and sit outside until the sun sets. 

Related: Ready to Update Your Home This Fall? Start Here

family taking a bike ride in the fall
iStock

 

31. Bundle up for a bike ride. Get more mileage from your outdoor time on your trusty two-wheeler. Whether you’re trailer-ing your crew or they’re balance-biking alongside you, there’s no denying the joy that comes from a family bike ride.

32. Make pumpkin-spiced something. You should have plenty of ingredients for this one because you’ve already been to the patch, right?  Find your new favorite recipe here.

33. Take a hike. Cooler weather means it’ll be easier to hit the trail with kids. Have you done any of these bucket list hikes?

34. Tailgate at your favorite game. Whether it’s your alma mater or the local high school, setting up with snacks and hanging out with friends before kick-off time is classic fall fun

35. Watch the birds fly south for the winter. Look up to see those V-shaped groups of feathered friends heading for warmer pastures.

36. Shop your local farmer’s market. Glossy red apples, stew-worthy root veggies, and a cornucopia of squashes are waiting for you at your local farmer’s market in autumn. Get some before the markets go on hiatus for the winter.

37. Stop and breathe. Take the kids outside and take a few deep breaths. As a bonus, ask them if they can smell anything that screams fall!

38. Go on one last picnic. Before the winter weather sets in, pack the basket full of everyone’s favorite picnic foods. Then find a grassy spot to enjoy the spread.

39. Watch a sunset. This might be the easiest thing to check off your fall bucket list. Bring your tiny tot out to enjoy the colorful show before she hits the hay.

40. Make a pillow fort and read Halloween books. Our favorites can be found here.

Related: 28 Movies You’ll Want to See in Theaters This Fall & Winter

a corn maze is something you do in the fall
iStock

 

41. Get lost in a corn maze. Fall is a great time to take advantage of old-school farm faves, like winding your way through a corn maze. Find our favorites here.

42. Plant winter veggies. Things like kale, spinach, lettuce, and asparagus will grow through the chilly months!

43. Plan out which Halloween treats you want to attempt to make.

44. Make fall luminaries. They’ll be glowingly good for Halloween night. We love this easy tutorial from Where Imagination Grows.

45. Decorate your front door for Halloween. Make your home a wickedly welcoming one. We’ve got easy ideas here.

46. Plant bulbs. Get your little green thumb into the mud before the first freeze to plant bulbs so you can enjoy them this spring. Let your garden grow!

47.  Find an Oktoberfest. Raise a glass to this festive family outing. Bundle up the kidlets for face painting, dancing, parades, and a few frothy mugs for mom and dad. Cheers!

48. Decorate your front yard for Halloween. We’ve got the best ideas to inspire you!

49. Find constellations in the night sky. Fall’s shorter days and longer nights mean kids don’t have to stay up too late to find dazzling patterns overhead. Here’s our step-by-step guide to stargazing with kids. 

50. Go to an amusement park that’s better in the fall. From LEGOLAND’s Brick or Treat to the Halloween Spooktacular at Sea World Parks, fun fall events and the crisp weather are perfect reasons to spend a day being thrilled.

Make sure to capture all the giggles—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.

Your kids will totally dig the popcorn bar

Ready to spice up your usual movie night? This time, roll out the red carpet, pop some popcorn, and throw a movie night party for your budding film buffs and their friends. From invites to games to giveaways, we’ve rounded the best movie night ideas that’ll have you pulling off a five-star evening with ease. Read on for all the details.

Movie Night Invites

movie night ideas include invitations
Food, Flowers, and Festivities

One of our favorite movie night ideas is to start with an invitation! We especially love the idea of an “all-access badge” that kids can wear to the party. To get all the details on this epic party, complete with a red carpet and popcorn arch, click here.

Award-Winning Decor

movie night ideas include cute decor
Kiki Sibert via Cupcake Wishes

Become a party planner extraordinaire on the fly with a set of printables. Etsy shop Cupcake Wishes has an awesome movie night pack that includes a popcorn bar garland, table signs for food, a personalized invite and more. Your home will be transformed into a theater in no time. 

Movie Night Ticket Garland

ticket chain is one of our favorite movie night ideas
CAKIES

How cute is this movie night idea? Run a ticket chain from wall to wall for an adorable decoration. It's so easy to put together that you might end up making it long enough to loop the house twice. Mom blogger Rubyellen of CAKIES suggests using washi tape (or glue) to stick them together. Don’t be afraid to mix and match colors!

Movie Night Fort

indoor fort for movie night ideas
iStock

Turn your movie night into a mini slumber party by building a fort, filling it with comfy cushions, and busting out the Christmas lights for the perfect lighting. Need some fort inspiration? Here are 13 different-sized and styled ones that work for any home.

Related: All the New Movies You Should See This Fall

Sweet Snack Caddy

movie night ideas aren't complete without snacks
Penny Pincher Jenny

A movie night usually involves lots of bite-sized snacks, which is why we think this idea from Penny Pincher Jenny is pure genius. Each compartment has a big enough space for snacks and drinks, and the handle makes it easy to clean up when the fun is over. Head to your local dollar store to stock up for the big night.

Special Movie Night Popcorn

Happily Hughes

When it comes to movie night ideas, what’s better than popcorn? Popcorn with all the trimmings! The candy bar trend has moved into popcorn, and we like the version created by Jessica of Happily Hughes—stylish and easy to recreate. 

Movie Night Snacks

don't forget snacks when thinking about movie night ideas
The Girl Who Ate Everything

Avoid a tomato sauce mess with these convenient pizza roll-ups. This also works as a great activity for kids if they love to make their own meals. In a short five minutes, you can have your own pocket of ooey-gooey cheese! Head over to foodaholic Christy’s blog The Girl Who Ate Everything for the full recipe.

Pick Your Movie Night Selection

iStock

This might be the most important party planning step: picking a movie. To help get you started, check out our list of movies that kids should see before turning 10. With more than 100 to choose from, you’re sure to find a winner on this list.

Related: Creative Snacks That Turn Movie Night into a Big Deal for Your Kids

Movie Night Memory Game

Bombshell Bling

You’ve seen every Disney movie twice, and you've marked the calendar to watch another (again)—so why not have a little fun with your Mouseketeer’s love for the films with a Disney Couples Memory Game? Family blogger Sarah of Bombshell Bling has printable memory cards that you can use. 

Print Out Movie Pictures for Young Kids

Hands on As We Grow

Challenge kids to a seek-and-find game as they watch the movie. Use pictures of the characters for young tots, spelled-out character names for your budding readers or a mixture of both! Wiz kids will feel like winners as they recognize the characters on and off the screen. Get more great tips for this game from Hands on As We Grow.

Read the Book First

iStock

Got siblings with varying bedtimes? When your tiniest bookworm doesn’t want to miss out on the movie, start with a quick story time. Many children’s films have an abridged flipbook too. We can already hear the excitement of having story time, a movie, and bedtime all in one!

Send Home Movie Night Party Favors

Sweet Designs

Keep your goodie bags simple (but super cute) with this fun idea from Sweet Designs. With some creative cutting and drawing, paper bags become old-school movie tickets. Fill them up with candy or brownies to send them off in style. 

Reel-Inspired Movie Night Goody Boxes

PiggyBankParties

Your film fanatic might not know what these reel-y cool boxes are, but after filling them with awesome treats and favors, they’ll love it anyway! Psst...these boxes do take a little origami work. Get your printable DIY copy at PiggyBankParties via Etsy for $5.

 

 

 

There’s still time to have an outdoor movie night

Summer vacation may be slipping away, but you can make every last moment count before sending the crew back to school. There are all sorts of summer bucket list ideas like sidewalk projects and science experiments that will keep your kids busy. We’ve got you covered with simple ways to spend some family time together and send the season out in style: we’re talking both indoor and outdoor activities that are sure to check a few boxes on your summer bucket list.

1. Go to a water park, or turn your backyard into one.

2. Bob for donuts at breakfast.

3. Make s’mores. You can go gourmet with one of these unconventional twists. 

4. Go backyard camping. We’ve got 10 great ideas to help you get started.

5. Go stargazing. Check out our top tips here.

6. Have an outdoor movie night.

7. Spend a day playing these old-school outdoor games.

8. Catch some one-on-one time with each kiddo, and make it special with these simple and sweet games for two.

9. Let them have that lemonade stand, or better yet, think out of the box with these alternatives to the classic.

having a 'yes day' is a fun summer bucket list idea
iStock

 

10. Have a yes day.

11. Stay up late and play flashlight tag.

12. Turn your porch into a comedy club and entertain each other with these hilarious jokes for kids.

13. Pick a day and pretend it’s 1982. Here’s your guidebook.

14. Find a firework show (check your local baseball team’s schedule) and bring your 3D glasses.

15. TP your kids’ rooms.

16. Break a Guinness Book of World Records. Peruse the titles up for grabs on the official site here.

17. Locate a national park near you and make a day or overnight trip to it.

18. Spend a morning with a kiddie pool in a brand-new way.

little girl riding a bike in the park, a summer bucket list idea
iStock

 

19. Decorate the family bikes and go for a ride through the neighborhood. 

20. Go to a drive-in movie, pack a picnic summer, and take a deck of playing cards.

21. Park it at the pool, and stay there until they close. Fill the hours with these awesome prop-less pool games.

22. Play twilight games after the lightning bugs come out.

23. Prank the kids. It’ll keep them on their toes!

24. Get cooking! Check out these 12 clever cooking games for kids, and the bonus is that they’ll get you psyched up for making those back-to-school lunches.

25. Mix some pretend potions for chasing away first-day jitters. Think of every superpower they might need, and whip up a potion for each one.

26. Spend a day at a kids’ museum. Here‘s a list of one in every state.

27. Plan a fun back-to-school tradition for the kids to make the new year special. 

Keep this list of the best photo booths in New York and Brooklyn where you can strike a pose with the kids, the old-fashioned way

There’s just something about an old-fashioned photo booth. Despite it feeling a little archaic in the age of the cell phone, it’s hard to pass on the opportunity to step behind the velvet curtain to snap a few fun-filled photos. Nowadays, believe it or not, there are still some traditional photo booths in New York—and a select few still use film. (What?!) For an alternative to the formal family portrait, cram into one of these little photo booth “studios” and let the magic happen! Want more nostalgic fun around New York? Head to NYC’s family-friendly arcades! Or for some old-school New York fun, try these “vanishing New York” spots! 

Where to Find Classic Photo Booths in NYC

1. The Ace Hotel

The Ace Hotel is an NYC gem any time of the day. Grab a meal, a quick coffee (they serve Stumptown afterall), or enjoy its free lobby WIFI to get some work done, all while your kids enjoy the legendary photo booth. Located in the Flatiron District, this spot is also fun to go grab drinks and dinner without the kids as well!

850 Broadway
Flatiron District
Online: acehotel.com

2. DeKalb Market Hall at City Point

There are many reasons to visit the downtown Brooklyn mall of City Point (the Alamo Drafthouse movie theater, Trader Joe’s, McNally Jackson bookstore, etc.). Yet another is DeKalb Market Hall, a food hall featuring vendors selling bites and beverages of all kinds. There is also a photo booth here, found right at the foot of the escalators. It’s $5 for a strip, and you can share to your social accounts right from the booth if you want.

445 Albee Square W.
Fulton Mall
Downtown Brooklyn
Online: citypointbrooklyn.com

3. Kiehl’s

The folks at Kiehl’s want you to capture how radiant their products make your skin look right in store. Head to the brand’s Meatpacking District location to capture your picture-perfect complexions.

400 W. 14th St.
Meatpacking District
Online: kiehls.com

4. UNIQLO Fifth Ave.

Shopping and taking pictures sounds like a match made in heaven, especially when you have the kids with you. (It’s a good way to keep them from getting bored.) We guess that’s what UNIQLO had in mind when it installed a photo booth inside its massive 89,000-square-foot flagship store on Fifth Ave. Take note!: It’s free for a strip of four pictures. (You will no doubt “pay” for the snaps with the purchase of some of the brand’s duds.) Also good to know: there’s a Starbucks inside the store and cell phone charging stations, so you could stay a while…

666 5th Ave.
Midtown
Online: uniqlo.com

photo booth fun in NYC

5. 7B Horseshoe Bar

This spot goes by three names: “The Horseshoe Bar”, “Vazac’s”, and “7B”. On the outside it looks like a classic Lower East Side dive bar, because, well, it is. But it’s got more than that going for it on the inside. With a bar that’s actually shaped like a horseshoe, major LES cred and grittiness, this place has also made cameos in major films like the The Godfather II, Crocodile Dundee, and The Verdict. Its latest star turn? In the incredible, dimension-bending Netflix series, Russian Doll.

108 Avenue B (at E 7th St.)
Lower East Side
Online: facebook.com/7bHorseshoeBarAkaVazacs

6. The Smith

Getting your kids ready to enjoy brunch at The Smith is as easy as “1, 2, cheese!” the restaurant’s Midtown, East Village, Lincoln Square, and NoMad locations all have photo booths for you to enjoy, with some located in the basement by the restrooms, and some, like in NoMad, actually in the restroom.

Various Locations
Online: thesmithrestaurant.com

7. Joe & The Juice

Is your face photo-ready thanks to kale and beet smoothies? If so, stop by Joe & The Juice to grab some healthy grub and snap a few photos in its photo booth (near the back of the shop). This is one of the more spacious juice/café spots in NYC, so feel free to bring the kids and stay a while.

67 Spring St. (btwn Crosby & Lafayette St.)
Soho
Online: joejuice.com

8. M&M World New York Store

The M&M store is the ideal spot for kids to explore the magical world of chocolate and document it all with a photo booth keepsake. The three floors of M&M themed candy and gifts is sure to keep both adults and children occupied, but after you’ve got your chocolate fix be sure to head to the photo booth on the 2nd floor and take home some snaps to remember the outing!

1600 Broadway
Times Square
Online: mmsworld.com

9.  Bubby’s Tribeca

Breakfast, lunch, dinner and pies! Oh my! More than two decades ago Bubby’s started off by baking pies, and now it’s a full-fledged restaurant with a couple of locations around the city. (Note: they serve some of the best pancakes in the city.) But head to the one on Hudson Street for a little bit of top model action to take some pics. 

120 Hudson St.
Tribeca

Online: bubbys.com

Our favorite kids alarm clocks will help kick morning battles to the curb

Whether it’s a school day or the weekend, having a solid morning routine for the kids is crucial. Help them start the day off right with their very own kids alarm clock! We found awesome time-telling devices including the viral Hatch Rest Gen 2 and a LEGO alarm clock. Pick your favorite and then check out these make-ahead breakfasts to keep the morning chaos to a minimum. 


Amazon

Clocky

$30+ BUY NOW

This alarm clock, affectionately known as Clocky, rolls away so that your child has to go and find him to turn it off. Talk about a wake-up call.


alarm clocks for kids tot clock alarm
Amazon

My Tot Clock

$60 BUY NOW

Recommended by Baby Gear Lab, this toddler clock has all the bells and whistles of a sleep-training alarm clock. There are five colors: Blue for BedTime, Yellow for WakeTime, Cyan for NapTime, Green for FunTime, and Red for Thinking Time/Timeout. The faceplate can be swapped out for another fun design (sold separately), it plays white noise, music and bedtime stories and has a weekend wake time, parental controls, and more!


Amazon

Kids Digital Alarm Clock

$11 BUY NOW

With seven different colors, eight different ring tones, and an LED display, this is a great alarm clock for kids learning how to sleep alone. The colors can be used to help kids know when it's okay to get out of bed, and the ring tones can be used for sleep support when kids are trying to fall asleep at night.


Hatch

Hatch Rest 2nd Gen

$70 BUY NOW

The name says it all. This all-in-one device from Hatch is your sound machine, your night light, and your sleep training alarm clock, so it'll take you from a newborn to a toddler who needs to learn when it's okay to get up. There's a toddler lock and it works with the Hatch Baby app via Bluetooth, so you can adjust the sound level, length of the sound, the brightness of light and more, all from the living room while baby sleeps. It even grows with your little one, so it's perfect for all stages!


Tommee Tippee

Tommee Tippee Gro Clock

$41 BUY NOW

Expect swaddles, sleepsacks, light and sound sleep aids with this Gro Clock, which shows your kids awake and sleep times with displays of sun (to indicate awake time) and moon and stars (to indicate when it's time to sleep). The clock features an adjustable screen brightness and the option to set two different wake-up times: one for the weekday/weekend and the other for nighttime/naptime.


Zulily

Tock the Learning Clock

$25 BUY NOW

Preschoolers can now tell time…to the beat! With two learning modes, Tock the Learning Clock from Learning Resources chimes in with dance party tunes for every right answer and also prompts kids to match the hands to a digital display of the time. Extra perks include a nightlight and “okay to wake” light if you need to make sure dance parties don’t kick off too early.


Big Red Rooster

Puppy Training Clock

$28 BUY NOW

We're not sure what we like more about this alarm clock. The fact that it's an adorable puppy dog, that it has a hidden compartment so your kid can't mess with the settings, or that it's got both wake-up and a nap timer, which is perfect for weekends or days home from preschool. Set the time for when you want the green ball to light up, and watch your kid go from a too-early riser to a right-on-time tot.


alarm clock for kids mella alarm clock
Macy's

MELLA All-in-One Clock

$50 BUY NOW

Using fun colors and facial expressions, this all-in-one clock from Little Hippo does it all: sleep trainer, nightlight, alarm clock and sound machine. Available in arctic blue, blush pink, bright purple and new color tropical teal.


alarm clocks for kids telly the time telling clock
The Learning Journey

Telly the Teaching Time Alarm Clock

$38 BUY NOW

A fun face and the option of switching between digital and analog are just a few of the reasons why your kids will enjoy having Telly the Time Telling clock on their bedside table. There's also a quiz mode that asks little ones to move the hands to the time requested, and a digital display lights up at night to keep kiddos company.


alarm clocks for kids okay to wake alarm clock
Play Monster

OK to Wake! Alarm Clock

$26 BUY NOW

This best-seller helps teach young kids about when it's okay to get out of bed. The 4.5" bedside clock glows green when it's okay to get up, a snooze option, a nap timer and fun animations. It's a snap for parents to program and the new version comes with a USB cord for homes equipped with USB wall plugs.


Alarm Clocks for Kids Betus Non-Ticking Alarm Clock
Amazon

Betus Non-Ticking Robot Clock

$18 BUY NOW

These friendly robots not only give kids a lesson in telling time—old school style—but the bright colors and geometric design are an easy way to add a stylish feature to your little one’s abode. They are also ideal for light sleepers because the clock operates without the usual tick-tock sound.


Pottery Barn Kids

Light Up Unicorn Digital Clock

$49 BUY NOW

A little magic never hurts when it comes to the morning wake-up call. Made from soft silicone and plastic, the large digital display and easy-set buttons are perfect for kids who are just beginning to tell time. It features the time, day, month, and the face lights up in four different glowing colors.


LEGO

Lego Alarm Clock

$19 BUY NOW

This Legends of Chima Laval LEGO Alarm Clock is perfect for kids who love the collection. There's an alarm and snooze function and also a back light!

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