The birthday invite didn’t come. They didn’t get the part in the school play. Their best friend moved away. Sound familiar? As parents, we have the (unpleasant) task of watching our kids learn the same life lessons we did in our childhoods. It can be hard to resist the urge to make sure they never have to experience the frustration or sadness that comes with not getting what they want, but disappointment is a healthy emotion for kids and can contribute to their social and intellectual development, as noted in Psychology Today. The caveat? It only works if kids understand that being disappointed at times will help them achieve their goals in life. And that’s where we come in.
Even if they do understand (or at least try to), that doesn’t mean it feels good or comes easy. That’s why we’ve enlisted a few experts to offer tips for parents when it comes to helping kids learn how to deal with disappointment.
1. Empathize with Their Feelings
Licensed professional clinical counselor Melissa Marote says that, first and foremost, it’s essential to validate your kids’ feelings; really empathize with what they’re going through. Listen to their feelings and respond with things like, “This must be frustrating.” You should avoid compounding the negativity, however. As you discuss the things your kids are missing out on, Marote explains, try to put a positive spin on it. For example, encourage your kids to save up their excitement for all the things they will eventually get to do in the future.
2. Give Them Reassurance
Child development expert and creator of The Moodsters Denise Daniels, RN, MS, tells us that it’s important to remind kids that this is only temporary—the playdate will happen when it isn’t raining, and they’ll have the opportunity to try out for the team next season. It might be hard for young kids to picture life beyond the current day or week, but still, Daniels suggests having kids make a list of things they want to do in the future because there will always be another opportunity to try.
3. Teach Self-Calming Skills
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Emotions can run high when kids are anxious and sad. Teaching kids how to calm down and manage their feelings is an essential tool for how to deal with anxiety. Marote suggests giving kids a breathing technique to oxygenate the brain and help kids think more clearly. Show your kids how to take a deep breath in and then blow out, like they’re blowing out birthday candles or making bubbles. For younger kids, blowing real bubbles is another excellent method, Marote says.
One more tip for the little kids: talking to a stuffed animal. Kids are so close and connected to their stuffed animals, which makes them a great comfort for kids who are dealing with hard feelings. Tell your kids, “Talk to your teddy bear about how sad you are,” Marote says.
4. Give Them a Choice
So, a trip to the indoor playground or a group trip with friends to a nearby amusement park is out. Naturally, your kids will be disappointed, but you can give them some power (especially when they’re smaller and they feel like they have none) by offering them a choice. “Our plans have changed, and your outing with friends has to be postponed. What if you pick the movie for family movie night and we’ll look for another day that works for the group?”
5. Redirect Focus
For kids that become very hyper-focused on negative feelings, it can be helpful to use distraction techniques when learning how to deal with disappointment, Marote says. Suggest an impromptu game of “I, Spy” or get creative by asking kids to draw a picture about how they’re feeling. Other ideas include reading a funny book or watching a silly video, asking them trivia questions, and telling them jokes. This is especially important when it’s close to bedtime and you’re trying to keep things positive before sleep.
6. Don’t Fix It
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This is a hard one. Whether you want to make your kids feel better or you figure you can just take care of it (fix the toy, help find the sock, bring the forgotten homework to school), it’s more effective to act as a guide when kids are learning how to deal with disappointment, according to PBS. Ask questions that will help them troubleshoot what happened and how they feel about the problem. “How did you feel when that happened? What do you wish had happened instead? How can we turn this into something good?
7. Stick with Your Normal Routine
In times of stress, encourage kids to keep regular times of going to bed, eating meals, and doing homework, Daniels says. Having a basic plan for the day is essential because kids thrive on predictability. When something doesn’t work out, at least they’ll know what should happen down the line.
8. Find Time to Have Special Moments
If your kids are bummed because they can’t attend their friend’s birthday or their favorite ice cream flavor isn’t available or they missed the final shot on goal, take the opportunity to plan something else fun. This doesn’t mean you have to take them to the amusement park or invest tons of money; just spend quality time together and you’ll see their moods lift.
9. Don’t Underestimate the Power of Hugs
Close contact, like hugs, can go a long way to providing kids with comfort when they’re learning how to deal with disappointment. That way, they’ll know you might not fix the problem, but you’ll always be there to offer comfort. Marote also suggests encouraging younger kids to hug their stuffies when they’re feeling sad or anxious. If you’re dealing with disappointed tweens or teens, look for signs that they’re ready for a hug or having you in their personal space. If it doesn’t happen, remember that being nearby and ready to listen is just as important.
Although we here at Tinybeans spend most of our days celebrating the women that create this amazing community of moms, March is officially Women’s History Month! And what better place to kick it all off than by highlighting some of our favorite women-owned brands? Supporting these businesses puts funds directly into the hands of female entrepreneurs and allows them to continue pioneering the ever-growing landscape of women-owned brands. We know it won’t come as a surprise, but women face a level of challenges in business that their male counterparts traditionally don’t.
Being intentional about where we spend our money means researching the brands we’re buying from; we’ve done that part for you, though. These women-owned brands are offering some of our absolute must-have products and services that we love year round. Beauty, fashion, lifestyle, kitchen—there’s no shortage of incredible goodies
SPANX
Sara Blakely, Founder After Sara solved a wardrobe crisis of her own by cutting the feet off a pair of pantyhose, SPANX was born. It's now the standard for shapewear and has evolved into a full line of women's fashion that we adore.
Cherie Hoeger, Founder & CEO It started with a call Cherie had with an aunt in Venezuela, where pads and tampons hadn't been available in stores for years. She immediately thought about what living without easy access to those products would be like for herself and her daughters. Months later, Cherie designed what she considered to be the ideal menstrual cup, and this idea turned into a line of period care, absorbent underwear, and more. Saalt is committed to donating 2% of their revenue to donate period care to regions with the most need, and help fund initiatives in menstrual health, education, and sustainability.
Ameeta Jaim, Co-Founder & CEO Ameeta created a program to help struggling readers gain reading and comprehension skills by integrating educational screen time. With Readability, your child can read out loud, independently and receive real-time feedback and assessment from the interactive voice-based AI tutor, while you track their progress. This personalized approach provides immediate feedback and tailored assessments, making the learning process engaging and enjoyable. The AI tutor's guidance helps your child become a confident reader, developing strong comprehension skills that will benefit them throughout their academic and personal lives.
Carolyn Ansley, CEO If you’re anything like a ton of parents out there, struggling to find nutrition for little ones who have a sensitivity to cow’s milk can be a long journey. KABRITA USA completely understands that struggle and created their goat milk formula based on what is best for baby, using the highest quality, European, GMO-free ingredients. It’s a gentle, non-GMO alternative to cow’s milk and soy, and KABRITA offers infant formula, toddler formula, junior nutrition, and snacks that are ideal for sensitive kiddos.
Swoon now has a full line of zero sugar, monk fruit sweetened lemonades and iced teas and is on track to eliminate one billion (yes, billion!) grams of sugar from the supply chain. Swoon was born out of necessity. Diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at the age of six, Jennifer Ross knew she wanted to create a healthier beverage option that still felt fun and celebratory. Her friend Cristina Ros Blankfein, the Cuban American mom of three, was also seeking better options for her family. Together, they created the zero sugar beverage brand with the mission of tackling the sugar-filled beverage market.
Founded by Greek-American and olive oil sommelier, Katina Mountanos, Kosterina is a wellness brand centered around the extraordinary benefits of high-antioxidant superfoods and the clean, Mediterranean lifestyle. Katina, a former beauty and ecommerce industry executive turned is on a mission to make ultra-healthy products more widely accessible to consumers, and created a cross-category brand carrying extra virgin olive oils, balsamic vinegars, dark chocolate, and olive oil based skincare.
Three Wishes, founded by Margaret Wishingrad, is a healthy-while-delicious cereal. After welcoming her first son, Ellis, Margaret realized the white space in the market for a nutritional cereal she wanted to feed her son. She created these delicious cereals that we can't get enough of!
Proofwas founded in May 2020 by Lori, Jodi, and Kari Caden. Proof offers a line of really (really) leak-proof period underwear that empowers women to live life worry-free. These are the only triple-patented underwear for protecting against leaks and periods on the market – the brand’s patented Leak-Loc technology holds up to 5 tampons or 10 tsp of liquid, fights odors, and wicks away moisture all day! They even have a line specifically for teens.
Born and raised in central Seoul, Annie Chun grew up eating foods from the ocean - including seaweed that her culinary-gifted mother would roast and serve. The idea of reinterpreting a favorite food from her childhood became the catalyst for gimme. Gimme was the first brand to offer USDA Certified/Non-GMO Verified Organic seaweed snacks, and Annie had to influence South Korean farmers to change their practices to do this! She not only ensures that these snacks are sustainably grown, but also that they incorporate the highest quality ingredients possible.
Amber Murray, Founder Fidget Stickers Textured Sensory Stickers are a fun a discreet way to help people ground themselves when they're feeling anxiety or overstimulation!
Sarah Ribner, Founder PiperWai features natural deodorants, body wash, and oils, all created to "create a more sustainable future through products we use every day."
Jennifer McMillan, Co-Founder Jenny and her husband Dave launched home decor brand JennyGems in 2015, and in 2020, they began manufacturing their own products!
Megan Benson, Owner Ethically sourced from a New Zealand sheep farm, felted by fair-trade certified female artisans in Nepal, and hand assembled and packaged in Egg Harbor, NJ.
Claire Watson and Nicole Hairfield, Co-Founders Claire and Nicole are best friends, moms, and neighbors who launched lifestyle brand Moonlight Makers in 2015!
Alaina Moulton, Founder Mom of 1 and military wife, Alaina Moulton, launched Baby’s Brew in 2019 as the world’s first portable, battery-powered bottle warmer!
Tara Williams, Founder Tara came up with the idea for Dreamland Baby weighted swaddles and sleep sacks when her 4th baby, Luke, kept waking up multiple times a night. As seen on Shark Tank!
Amanda Hunt, Founder As a mom of 3 and former Senior Technical Designer and Product Development Specialist for All Brands Intimates & Swimwear at Urban Outfitters, Free People, and Anthropologie, Amanda knew she could improve the traditional nursing bra and actually make one that was cute, trendy, and wearable!
Leanne Sherred, M.S., CCC-SLP, Co-Founder As a Speech Language Pathologist, Leanne has years of experience treating patients with communication disorders and challenges, but she quickly noticed that too many families were struggling to get access to the care they needed. So she created a new care model focused on research-based techniques that were aimed at meeting children and families where they were with 1 on 1 virtual sessions from home.
Kelly Morrissey & Lisa Loyd, Co-Founders Kelly and Lisa came up with the idea for chic, comfortable loungewear that can be worn braless when they decided they were tired of being uncomfortable in loungewear around unexpected guests or family members. The JJwinks "light hug" support allows you to wear their pieces without a bra while still feeling comfortable!
Arpi Khachatryan, Founder Born in Armenia and emigrated to Barcelona at the age of 10, Arpi developed a passion for designs when she moved to the U.S. and had her first child. Her pieces are created to help support mothers through their journey!
Helen Reavey, Founder Originally from Ireland, Helen's education-first approach to scalp (and ultimately hair care), has led to her regularly debunking hair myths across the industry, while simultaneously growing her celebrity fan list and cult-following. Celeb fans include: Marissa Tomei, Sienna Miller, Sarah Snook, Mark Ronson, Bella Hadid, Kourtney Kardashian, Melissa Wood, Halsey, Molly Sims and more.
Stephanie Lee, Founder Daughter of immigrants, Stephanie created selfmade, a ritual-based psychodermatology brand. It connects clean, sustainable products with the human pursuit of self-exploration. Their collection of face and body essentials is linked to online resources and a proprietary wellbeing app.
Jennifer Fisher, Founder Jennifer Fisher is best known as “the Queen of Hoops” for her eponymous NYC-based brass and custom fine jewelry line and A-list celebrity cult following that includes Jennifer Lopez, Zendaya, Michelle Obama, Rihanna, Tracee Ellis Ross, Emily Ratjkowski, Hailey Bieber, Selena Gomez, Bella Hadid, and many others.
Eunice Byun, Founder Material has become one of the most beloved kitchenware brands introducing collections that span useful food prep tools and cookware to gorgeous hand-finished tabletop ceramics.
Phoebe Yu & Kat Dey, Co-Founders ettitude is a purpose-driven lifestyle brand pioneering the world’s first, proprietary CleanBamboo® fabric. Made from 100% organically-grown, non-toxic bamboo lyocell, ettitude’s commitment to sustainability, innovation and comfort has resulted in some of the world’s softest, most breathable bedding, bath, and loungewear anywhere.
Aishwarya Iyer, Founder A cult favorite AAPI-owned pantry essential bran known for making some of the freshest, highest quality olive oil, vinegar, and honey on the market.
Hannah Mendoza, Co-Founder Clevr Blends is the Meghan Markle-backed and Oprah-approved SuperLatte brand making decadent and delicious oat milk latte drinks infused with adaptogens, probiotics, and superfoods.
Jing Gao, Founder Fly by Jing has become one of the fastest-growing direct-to-consumer startups and modern Asian food brands in the country, redefining the narrative around Chinese food in the Western world.
Heather Jiang & Jen You, Co-Founders Allégorie’s eco-friendly collections upcycle discarded fruits and plants (yes, really!), collected from grocery stores and juice factories, and transform them into stylish lifewear while ensuring health and fairness for all workers involved. Allégorie’s signature Gala Collection is crafted from apple peels recycled from apple juice factories and each Gala Card Holder upcycles about 25 apples.
Cassey Ho, CEO & Lead Designer POPFLEX offers products that are designed to not only look cute, but also serve a purpose. Best known for their viral sensations like their Vegan Suede Yoga Mat (designed to get grippier as you get sweatier), the Hourglass Legging and the cozy Cloud Hoodie. This fun brand is a small, BIPOC-owned business made up of mostly women.
Sloane Grossberg, Founder Sloane's background as a designer has allowed her to fabricate luxurious details without creating a bag so precious that it needs to be babied or so trendy that it will soon be out of vogue. shortyLOVE was born out of Sloane's desire to create her own version of a smartly designed, fashionable AND functional bag that's perfect for moms on the go!
Lindsey Laurain, Founder ezpz was created when Lindsey got fed up with the mess her 3 boys created as young eaters. Today, ezpz is a leading developmentally-focused feeding company providing mealtime solutions for first foods all the way to independent eaters!
Tera Henderson, Founder Inspired by her sons, Ford and Wyatt, born almost a full trimester early, Tera created a brand to honor moms and their little ones. She focuses on mom + me matching whenever possible, and all of their hand-designed styles are cut, sewn, and washed for softness in L.A., California. You'll find faves like Raising Legends, Raising Boys, Raising Girls, Bubby, Sissy, and more!
Ines Rosa, Founder With a strong presence in European perfumery, cosmetic, and drugstore chains, JCOS has introduced its line of intentional Japanese beauty products to the US market, designed to bring balance and beauty to the lives of women of every age, race, and ethnicity. JCOS offers collections of holistic self-care products.
Amanda Victoria, Co-Founder Siponey is the first B Corp certified cocktail company that dedicates 2% or more of their annual revenue to environmentalist organizations. They're committed to saving honeybees and creating a delicious canned cocktail, too!
Coco Quill, Founder Whiskey & Woof is a luxury scent brand that's Leaping Bunny Certified, vegan, and hand-poured. They offer candles, room sprays, diffusers, and more.
Jacynda Smith, Founder TYME is the hair tool brand that revolutionized heat tools with their original all-in-one styling iron that just requires the flick of your wrist.
Lynne O'Brien, Founder Line in the Sand is a line of active/waterwear and accessories that take a stand for empowering women and the planet. Their various UV swim leggings, tops, and dresses are made from recycled materials. 100% of the profits go to cancer and ocean organizations.
Linda Balti, Co-Founder Amour Vert is the ethically made, women-led, sustainable fashion brand that combines Parisian sophistication with Northern California ease while also giving back through partnership with American Forests.
Meena Harris, Founder & CEOPhenomenal Media is a values-driven, 360-degree media company that centers women and historically excluded communities. They're committed to lifting up the stories, experiences, and talents of underrepresented groups, helping to build community, shift dialogue, and shape culture.
Kelley Higney, Founder The chemical-free solution to bug bites and stings, BUG BITE THING is a suction tool that extracts the saliva/venom the insect leaves behind. Goodbye, itch.
Kelly Oriad & Callie Christensen, Co-Founders Plushes and lovies that come with kid-friendly board books and affirmation cards to help kiddos develop social and emotional skills early.
Jenni Morse, Founder Simpli Press combines the timeless qualities of a French press with modern-day innovation to achieve the smoothest complex brew with effortless cleanup. Get a rich cup of customizable home-brewed coffee with all the flavor coffee has to offer AND without the grit, in just three minutes.
Elizabeth "Pebby" Haislip, Founder "Our brand is built on a real human understanding of what it's like to struggle with accepting your body after a baby, postpartum depression, motherhood, anxiety, dating woes, and more." Pebby Forevee tees and accessories are designed to be flattering, fun, and confidence-boosting.
Violette Serrat, Founder & CEO Violette couldn't decide between becoming a painter or a fashion designer, and with the French-inspired makeup and skincare line she created, Violette_FR was born.
Pia Rappaport-Goldman, Founder PILLOWPIA offers home accessories that are eclectic, minimalistic, and chic while staying totally accessible. It's easy to match these pieces to almost any of your existing decor.
Lauren Brooks, Founder Bakery Bling started out offering glittery sprinkle baking decorations that are totally edible. Now they offer everything from glitter sprinkles to premade cookie decorating kits and houses.
Meredith Madsen, Founder Sunshine & Glitter creates fun, sparkly, and effective suncare that's eco-friendly, good for you, and reef-safe. They offer sunscreen, hair care, lip balm, and lotion.
Bonnie Blackburn, Owner "Hi! I'm Bonnie and the owner and creator of Hey June. I started this business five years ago out of desperation—to feed babies and pay the mortgage during years of a difficult marriage and then single momhood." Hey June offers beautiful, affordable, wearable jewelry pieces that are everyday staples.
Candice Collison, Co-Founder & CEO Candice found herself suffering from PPD and anxiety after giving birth to her daughters, and trying to dress her postpartum body made it that much worse. She developed Fair Trade Certified Of an Origin for motherhood in all its stages.
Tierra Forte, Founder & CEO, Barrie Brouse, Co-Founder, & Anya Emerson, COO Mightly is the brainchild of Tierra and her 8yo daughter Eloise. They create durable, adorable, eco-friendly kids clothes that can be mixed and matched.
Eliana Lopez, Founder All MUKUPATI products are made in a family-run factory, in Venezuela, that is committed to zero waste. For every purchase, MUKUPATI donates a percentage of sales to Fundacion Esperanza de Vida, an organization that helps children in extreme poverty in Venezuela. They offer soft, safe, and comfy kids essentials.
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International Women’s Day is coming up, so it’s the perfect time to highlight and support exceptional women-owned businesses in San Diego. These amazing females have built successful careers based on their passions, and our community reaps the rewards of their daily determination, creativity and desire to make the world a better place. Read on to be inspired by their stories and to support their businesses.
Talk about flower power! Natalie Gill established Native Poppy in 2015 to create joy by making art with her friends. She started her flower-arranging business in her backyard alongside Meghan Blancato who became a partner in the business in 2018. Their business grew into a brick-and-mortar flower shop with two locations: South Park and Solana Beach. In their own words, they “believe in taking care of the environment and drinking champagne, in stopping to cuddle and befriending every animal we see. We believe in singing while flowering and in always challenging ourselves and our peers to be better, all the while affirming each other for where we are today.” What a great place to bloom and find the best blossoms.
Game of pickle, anyone? It’s no secret that Pickleball is America’s sport du jour right now. In the past two years, you’ve either talked to someone who is raving about how much they love the game, or you’ve caught the bug yourself. Aubri Steele, mother of five, not only saw how the sport united her family and their community but also an opportunity in the marketplace. The game was hot, but the apparel needed an upgrade. Civile launched in early 2021 offers luxury high-performance athletic apparel for the modern ‘Pickler’ that is versatile and stylish.
3. Gluten Free Baking Company
Roanna Canete has a diverse background as a consultant turned self-taught gluten-free baker to Netflix star to bakery owner. She holds a master’s degree in organizational leadership and an MBA in entrepreneurship. Today, she owns and operates a dedicated gluten-free bakery in San Diego, California. In 2015, Roanna opened a Licensed Cottage Food Operation out of her home kitchen in Coronado, California. Word spread quickly and soon enough Roanna’s gluten-free baked goods were being sold to cafes, coffee shops and restaurants throughout San Diego. With wholesale business booming, Roanna moved the kitchen from her house to a production kitchen and in February 2020, she opened her first retail shop in North Park.
Owned by not one but two brilliant women, this San Diego-based marketing firm is dedicated to amplifying the social impact of non-profits doing good in the community by elevating their image and marketing. Angel Mason Broadus and Kristine Mason Broadus lead a diverse team that is strategically creating a ripple effect of good, positive change.
Azúcar is the fulfillment of a life-long dream for Vivian Hernandez-Jackson. She combines her classical French training with her Cuban roots to develop a unique product line of desserts and pastries that combines traditional favorites with new flavors and designs is her passion and it shows.
What do you get when you mix passion, purpose and purple? Kathryn the Grape! Kathryn Cloward, aka “Kathryn the Grape” to children, is a native San Diegan who made her childhood nickname into an integrated media series to help children have social and emotional personal development tools for understanding and expressing their feelings, making kind and compassionate choices and being brave in new life experiences. To date, Kathryn’s earned over 60 awards for her inspirational and creative work. She is a Contributing Editor of motivational content for Guitar Girl Magazine and relishes her role as a speaker and mentor for women in business—drawing from over two decades as an entrepreneurial trailblazer. She’s also the founder of Kandon Unlimited, Inc., a heart-centered mindful media company intent on creating and publishing positive and empowering media.
Lovely Leaps dance studio teaches love of movement and inclusion one leap at a time. Lovely Leaps owner Lisa McCabe, an African American engineer turned dance instructor, focuses on making dance fun and developing key motor skills for kids ages 10 months-10 years by growing their confidence and comfort in their own bodies. More than just a dance studio, Lovely Leaps is a movement of its own. Studio founders Lisa and Ricky McCabe started Lovely Leaps when their daughter was just five months old. Lisa's goal as a dance instructor is to offer a whole-child approach to help kids blossom. She believes dance should focus on fun instead of perfection and she stresses inclusion.
Katie Farina of Katie's Healing Kitchen offers award-winning vegan cooking classes in San Diego. When her mother was diagnosed with cancer, Katie took a special interest in evoking the healing power in healthy foods and nutrition. She graduated from the Natural Epicurean Academy of Culinary Arts, a Professional Chef Training Institute in 2013 and she has been a proponent of "harnessing the power of food to heal disease." She teaches cooking classes and in her own words, her "lifelong goal is to inspire others to make the connection between the food they eat and its effect on their body, the environment and the world." Be sure to check out Katie's amazing cookbook, and sign up for her cooking classes.
Sünje O’Clancy, MA, E-RYT, RCYT founded Yoga Rascals in 2007. She has been dedicated to enhancing children’s lives through yoga by creating a nurturing, fun environment while supporting development and learning so that they may realize their fullest potential. She shares, “I founded Yoga Rascals because of my love for children and my passion for yoga. Sharing the joy of movement, the calming effects of relaxation, and the many other benefits of yoga with children can have a big impact on how they develop their sense of self in a positive way." She adds, “I am very grateful to own my own business. It has allowed me to find balance between being a mom and raising my children while doing what I love professionally.”
Grace Martin founded Edens Garden as part of her dream to share high-quality, affordable essential oils and make them easily accessible to everyone. Edens Garden’s story is rooted in natural and conscientious living. As a woman and family-owned company, Edens Garden is inspired by their loved ones to put safety, quality and sustainability at the forefront of their goals. With customers always at the core of what they do, Edens Garden has expanded product offerings to include synergy blends and hand-crafted body and home care products.
Julie Rais Ellis is the mother of two and the founder of Rais Case, which started as a bags and accessories collection and has since expanded and grown into a movement. She's passionate about designing the highest quality products that cultivate community and culture around locally handmade goods. Ellis offers, "Our relationship with our community is where magic happens. Our mission is simple but focused. It is to make quality goods that create community & support well-being." Made with the highest quality materials available, all bags are designed, manufactured, and shipped from San Diego, CA.
Maya was looking for the perfect vegan cookie: crispy-on-the-outside and gooey-on-the-inside. Unable to find it, she created a cookie recipe herself. Soon, she was a local celebrity with moms and kids––which inspired her to open Maya’s Cookies. Voted San Diego's Best Vegan Baked Goods in 2017 and 2018, Maya's decadent cookie flavors range from chocolate chip and caramel pecan to funfetti and gluten-free s’ mores. You’ll love them all! Maya's Cookies is now America's #1 Black-owned vegan cookie company.
A trio of sisters, Martiza, Sativa, and Kaya founded Dirt Don't Hurt in 2017. These conscientious moms have six kids between them and during their pregnancies, they started to become more aware of what ingredients were in their personal care and cleaning products. Their line Dirt Don't Hurt was born when they decided to create the safe and natural beauty products they were looking for. Their plant-based products are 100% vegan and cruelty-free and include skincare and oral care. Try their popular All-Natural Activated Charcoal Tooth Powder.
Starr Edwards, founder of the delicious Bitchin' Sauce, a vegan, gluten-free, non-GMO almond dip available in a variety of flavors, started her company in 2004 at the young age of 16! She started selling her "creamy concoction" at local farmer's markets and it was a huge hit. Bitchin' Sauce became so wildly popular that she needed to open a commercial kitchen. Costco discovered her brand and now it is distributed nationally and sold in supermarkets, at Costco and Target. Bitchin' Sauce is headquartered in Carlsbad and is family-owned and operated.
Whether you’re new to nursing or an experienced pro, this breastfeeding essentials checklist will help
If you’re nursing, these are the breastfeeding essentials that will make your journey easier and more comfortable for you and your baby. Some may surprise you, and others will become your new can’t-live-without-it favorites. From nursing bras and breastfeeding pillows to nipple creams and pumping parts, it’s all here.
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Nursing Basics
Prenatal vitamins. Yes, you’re post-natal, but many health-care professionals recommend continuing to take prenatals while you breastfeed so you and baby can get more essential nutrients. Talk to your doctor about what vitamins you need.
Burp cloths. You probably received cute, colorful cloths at your baby shower, but a plain cloth diaper is also an excellent, and highly absorbant, way to protect your clothing and wipe baby’s face after a spit-up situation.
Nipple shields. A lifesaver for many women in the beginning. This thin, clear silicone nipple shield can help baby latch if they're having trouble or you have flat or inverted nipples.
Nursing bras. These bras make it easier to feed your child and are more comfortable for you, especially in the first few months. If you're pumping, you'll want combo nursing & pumping bras that let you pump hands-free. Check out our guide to nursing bras for everything you need to know.
Nursing pillows. Holding a nursing baby in your arms gets real old, real fast. You don't need to invest in a nursing pillow, but it will help your baby latch at the right angle for feeding and can be more comfortable for your back. Read about the top nursing pillows.
Breast milk collection cups. You won't lose a drop of liquid gold with a cup designed to catch milk from the breast your baby isn't nursing on. They're also handy for hand expression and some are shaped to allow your baby to drink right from the silicone cup.
Nursing apps. Track which side you last nursed on, when baby nursed and other important nursing data in these amazing apps. Many apps will also track diaper changes, nap schedules and health history so you have all of your baby data in one spot. Check out awesome organizational apps for new moms.
Lactation consultants. If breastfeeding is painful or you’re concerned about whether baby is getting enough milk, talk to a lactation consultant. Ask local moms for recommendations, or explore online resources.
Nipple creams. Heal sore, dry, cracked nipples with breast milk, coconut oil, lanolin or a store-bought nipple cream. If you buy a cream, look for one that doesn’t need to be washed off before baby nurses.
Nursing Pads. Disposable or reusable breast pads can comfort sore nipples and protect against leaks that stain your clothes.
Breast pain relievers. From massagers that soften the breast to work out clogged ducts to pillows and gel packsyou heat up to quicken milk flow, there are products to soothe the most common breast discomfort.
Pumping Products
Motorized breast pumps. Many insurance companies cover the cost of a breast pump, which is great. But there are sometimes restrictions, and you might want or need a different kind of pump. New moms can also rent pumps from hospitals after birth.
Manual pumps. Many breastfeeders love the convenience of a hand pump. It’s quiet and doesn’t require batteries or an outlet, so it’s great for late nights, air travel and road trips. You can use a hand pump to increase supply, catch leaking milk while baby is nursing on the other breast, and relieve pressure before nursing if you’re engorged.
Pumping accessories. A hands-free pumping bra is a must with a traditional breast pump. There’s a slit in each cup of these clever bras that allow you to slip the flanges into the bra and connect the bottles and hoses outside it. And speaking of flanges, the correct size flanges can make a difference in pumping output. If you’re concerned about milk production, confirm you’re using the right size flange for your breast and nipple size.
Storage & cleaning. Breastmilk storage bags and cups come in silicone and plastic versions. For heating milk, invest in a breastmilk warmer that safely heats the milk evenly. To clean storage cups and pump parts, use a bottle and dish soap with gentle ingredients that's free of fragrances. Babies are sensitive to new smells.
Milk coolers. If you're pumping at work, on outings or while traveling, you need a sturdy insulated bag for toting your pumped milk. Look for one with reusable ice packs and/or insulated panels.
Water bottle. Breastfeeding makes you super thirsty, so a water bottle is an absolute must. Choose a bottle that's easy to clean and not too heavy to carry, since you’ll also be lugging baby’s bottles and gear.
Lip balm. Your lips are likely to dry out from nursing, and the right lip balm keeps your lips soft for all those baby kisses.
Nursing cover (optional). It’s legal to breastfeed in all 50 states, but you may feel more comfortable with a nursing cover. Use a swaddling blanket or scarf if you don’t want to buy a separate product, but a cover can offer you more privacy and convenience. Look for a multi-use cover that works to cover car seats for added shade.
Lactation Snacks
Lactation drink powders. These drinks combine combine vitamins, minerals, protein, fiber and lactation-supporting herbs into a powder you can add to your favorite smoothie or other snacks.
Lactation tea & coffee. A hot beverage is a soothing way to get your lactation support and extra hydration.
Lactation treats. New moms deserve all the snacks. From cookies and brownies to bars and gummies, there are lots of tasty ways to boost your milk while satisfying that sweet tooth.
Pro Tip: Talk to your health care provider or lactation consultant before taking any snacks or supplements to boost your milk supply or overall nutritional intake.
Discover (or rediscover) San Diego’s best museums with your family during San Diego Museum Month 2023
San Diego is giving you even more reason to fall in love with the month of February by kicking off its annual Museum Month. Take a family adventure to explore our city’s finest world-famous museums all month long for half the price. This year, more than 60 museums throughout San Diego county are participating. So, pick a few new museums, hit up some old favorites, and immerse your family in local art walks, nature hikes, science, and other unforgettable learning experiences to inspire curiosity and creativity. Get started below with our picks for the best kid-friendly museums from Oceanside to Imperial Beach to the heart of local favorite, Balboa Park.
Good to Know: You can pick up your Museum Month pass starting January 26 from any local library or you can download your pass. Each Museum Month Pass is free and can be used for up to four, half-priced admissions at participating museums. Guests can use the pass to visit as many museums as they would like between February 1-28.
If you’re looking for a spot to kick off museum month, then definitely head to The Fleet Center. You and your crew can catch the monthly astronomer-led planetarium show on February 1st, and the hands-on science exhibits will amaze any age (push buttons are self-sanitizing after every push!). Check out their rotating exhibits as there’s always something new to discover, and kids five and under will love playing in Kid City. Don’t forget to snag tickets for the quick 45-minute nature show on their upgraded IMAX big screen.
Inspire your future marine biologists at San Diego’s Birch Aquarium—the ideal place for curious minds to get inspired by the beautiful and interactive sea-worthy exhibits happening daily. Walk through the hall of jellyfish, past the mesmerizing floor-ceiling kelp tank, and out to the touch pools with the most epic views of the La Jolla coast. Outside you’ll find plenty to keep kids busy learning from water and wind-powered play. Make sure to show up hungry because you’ll want to stop at the Splash Café outside for lots of delicious food that both you and the kids will enjoy.
San Diego County contains more biodiversity, from the mountains and deserts to deep ocean waters and salt marshes, than any other region in the contiguous United States. The Living Coast Discover Center allows you to explore and engage with animal exhibits that feature hawks, owls, sharks, rays, turtles and more. Time your visit with their animal presentations or even go during a bald eagle’s lunchtime for an unforgettable experience.
Roar and then explore at San Diego’s Natural History Museum, locally known as The Nat, and a dino-mite way to spend an afternoon with your kiddos. Young history buffs will love getting an up-close look at what’s been found in our own backyard and beyond with the larger-than-life dinosaurs and other animals on display. Head up to the museum’s top floor to check out the newest exhibit, Caught on Camera, which features remarkable images of southern California wildlife “caught” on film with the help of camera traps. You’ll see flying squirrels mid-leap, bobcats in backyards, and maybe discover local species you’ve never heard of before (what’s a ringtail, anyway?). If you have time, try to catch one of their films about nature on the giant screen.
Learn about San Diego’s exciting maritime history with a self-guided tour of this historic fleet. You’ll go below deck on the world’s oldest sailing ship, Star of India, tour the celebrity HMS Surprise featured in the film Master and Commander, and even find out what it’s like to sail in a submarine.
1492 N Harbor Dr.
San Diego (Embarcadero) Online:sdmaritime.org
Inspire your kids to connect with plants and nature at the largest children’s garden on the west coast, The San Diego Botanic Garden. There are 37 acres and 4 miles of trails filled with lush plants, waterfalls, and ponds with turtles and fish. Each section of this garden features plants and trees from all over the world, so you can take a mini-vacation without leaving the city. There are two children’s gardens where you’ll find dinosaurs, explore the Incredible Edibles section, play in the Mountain Stream and climb the largest treehouse ever—Toni’s Tree House.
230 Quail Gardens Dr.
Encinitas Online:sdbgarden.org
7. San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum
Head to this north county museum to experience a world of wonders with hands-on activities like building, magnification, dress-up, animal and plant care, water play, and so much more. A perfect spot for younger kids, The San Diego Children’s Discovery Museum has a special toddler area for little ones to play safely. This is a one-level indoor/outdoor museum, so you’ll find a good mix of activities, knowing the kids can’t wander off too far away. Don’t miss the Garden Workshop with Jimbos happening during museum month on February 10.
“Think, play, and create” is definitely what this place is all about; the New Children’s Museum has rotating exhibits that will inspire kids to see the world through creativity and art. Paint the old truck outside, make your own clay figurine, jump and swing on the large crocheted Whammock! and crawl through secret passageways and rooms. We love their latest installment, Breathing Room, a quiet space meant for pause in an otherwise highly active environment. The installation features intricate knitted sculptures made of repurposed T-shirts that move and hang from the ceiling. It’s the perfect reminder to look up, slow down, and focus on our breath. Also, The Bean Sprouts Café will excite your kids to eat the creatively displayed food.
Journey through aviation and learn about all the early explorers of flight and space. You’ll find rare specimens of aircraft, barnstormers from the golden age of flight, military jets, space capsules, and even one of the first hot air balloons from 1783.
And, beginning February 4th, you can check out their newest exhibit: Above and Beyond—celebrating the power of innovation to make dreams take flight, featuring immersive simulations, interactive design challenges, iconic historical touchstones, visionary concepts and inspiring stories from game-changing innovators, past and present. Pro Tip: Don’t forget to stop for a bite to eat in the restaurant with views underneath the San Diego flight line; you’ll enjoy watching the airplanes fly right above you.
North County kiddos will experience a world of wonders with hands-on activities like building, magnification, dress-up, animal and plant care, water play, and so much more. There’s even a toddler area for little ones to play safely. This is a one-level indoor/outdoor museum, so you’ll find a good mix of activities knowing the kids can’t wander off too far away.
Visit America’s longest-serving aircraft carrier and find out what it was like to live onboard. Take a self-guided tour down below of the galley (kitchen), bunks, and command centers, and then head upstairs to the flight deck. You’ll find all kinds of aircraft and you can even go inside some of them. Find the gift shop, coffee shop, and restaurant towards the stern (back) of the boat.
910 N Harbor Dr.
San Diego (Embarcadero) Online:midway.org
Spots go quickly at these Seattle mid-winter break camps
Mid-winter break is just around the corner. And if a fun-in-the-sun vacation isn’t in your family’s plans for mid-winter break, we’re here to help. Keep the cabin fever at bay by signing the kids up for an engaging winter break camp in Seattle or on the Eastside. We’ve got camps for all kinds of kids on our list. And guess what? They all have spots open. From sports and engineering to art and cooking, you’ll find an entertaining camp on our list of Seattle camp faves. You work. They play. What more could you ask for if you’re staying close to home?
Who wouldn’t want to play dodgeball, soccer, and capture the flag over mid-winter break? We guarantee the kids will have more fun at Arena Sports than they will if they're stuck at home. Many Arena Sports locations will be running mid-winter break camps, and they fill up fast, so be sure to plan ahead, parents. We love that campers can come for full- or half-days and for a single session or stay the whole week. Flexibility is key these days, isn't it? Camps run from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. for full day and in the afternoon from 1 p.m.-4 p.m. for half day. Dates vary based on local school districts' mid-winter break schedules.
Good to Know: If you're signing up your campers (ages 6 and up) for camp at the Mill Creek or Issaquah locations, they can also stay entertained with laser tag, mini golf, and other attractions that are part of the entertainment complex.
Locations in Magnuson, SODO, Issaquah, Remond & Mill Creek
Can you dig it? The Tilth Alliance will have kids Gardening for Pizza over mid-winter break. Hosted at the Rainier Beach Urban Farm and Wetlands, this hands-on camp is a full culinary experience—from garden to table. Kids ages 5 and up will spend the week learning what it takes to make pizza—wait for it—from scratch. Starting in the garden and working all the way through kneading the dough and putting on the toppings, kids will develop the skills and knowledge to make and bake their own at home. The fact it ends with a celebratory pizza party on the last day is a total win.
Kick cabin fever to the curb when you sign up the kids (ages 6-9) for this combo outdoor-indoor parkour camp with Kong Academy. They'll get a chance to learn new skills and practice what they already know as they make their way over, around, and sometimes under obstacles at this week-long, half-day camp. It all starts with an engaging warm-up and games before the guided lesson begins. Then it's off to try what you've learned and play a bit too before heading home. And while the parkour skills are what your kids will rave about, they'll also be gaining social skills, and that's hard to beat.
Dates: Feb. 20-24, 2023 Time: 9 a.m.-noon
Phinney Neighborhood Association 6532 Phinney Ave. N. Seattle Online:kongacademy.org
Turns out, kids don't need to run away to join the circus over mid-winter break. They can attend camp at SANCA instead. And since no previous classes are necessary to attend camp, it's a great place to start, if you have a kiddo who is interested in learning circus arts. There are two camps to choose from this session. Younger wannabe performers (ages 6-8) can check out Circus Odyssey where they will develop body awareness through tumbling, balancing, ring passing, and partner acrobatics. Older kiddos (ages 9-12) will become Ringmasters, linking individual skills into sequences and practicing choreography.
If you live in West Seattle, you know what a gift this playspace is for local families. And the folks at Outer Space Seattle will be offering drop-off camp for kids over mid-winter break too. They'll have a chance to play on the enormous structure, do some arts and crafts, and play with friends too. The best part? It's day-by-day so you can sign up for one day or all five, depending on your February break plans. Add in a discount for sibs and you've got your plans made.
Your kids love to play with toys, but at this camp, they'll learn how to build them all by themselves. Budding builders and engineers will enjoy safely wielding woodworking tools (think: hammers, saws, sanders, and more) as they create. Sign up for a morning or afternoon session. Kids will need to bring a snack and wear closed-toes shoes each day. The best part? The project they take home at the end.
Extra! Extra! Read all about it at this year's Stone Soup Theater mid-winter break camp. Newsies is the musical and kids ages 8 and up are invited to join the cast performing the 1982 Disney musical. Not only will kids have the chance to strut their stuff on stage, but they'll also learn about the real-life newsboy strike in NYC in 1899. This show stopper is as empowering as it is fun for kids who love the stage.
Good to Know: After-camp care is available until 5:30 p.m. for an additional $115.
Dates: Feb. 20-24, 2023 Times: 9 .a.m-3 p.m.
Wallingford Presbyterian Church 1414 N. 42nd St. Seattle Online:stonesouptheatre.org
Great things are happening at this Greenwood sewing studio over mid-winter break, where families will have two camps to choose from. If a longer camp is what you're after, try the Animal Onesie Pajama camp (Feb. 22-24). Unicorn horns, kitty ears, and fuzzy tummies are all in the mix. Or stick to a quick two-day P.J. Party camp (Feb. 20-21) where kids will learn sewing basics, make PJ pants and a gum drop floor pillow. Whatever your kiddo's whimsy, they'll get a chance to explore it and make it here. No previous experience is required to sign up. Remember to bring a snack and a mask and dress for outdoor play—it's all part of the day. Psst... if you want to make a full week of it, sign them up for both camps. It's almost too easy.
Good to Know: Both camps are for beginners, ages 7 and up.
LEGO fans love camps at Play-Well TEKnologies. This winter, they'll be offering a Winter Wonderland Engineering camp in Shoreline for kids ages 6-11. More than a chance to just play with LEGOs, kids will engineer snowmobiles, sleds, and other wintry gear. Plus, we hear they might even get to experience the Polar Express. You won't need your mitten for this STEM-themed camp, but your mini figs sure will.
Dates: Feb. 21-24, 2023 Times: 9 a.m.-noon
Spartan Recreation Center 202 N.E. 185th St. Shoreline, WA Online:play-well.org
Bring your budding artists for a week of outdoor art at Neo Art School. Register for just a day or sign your little maker up for the whole week at this Ballard-area day camp. While they're staying cozy under the heated tents, kids will upcycle items and use paint and other mediums to create their masterpieces, and the promise of new projects each camp keeps kids engaged. When they need a break, it's off to the meridian playground to burn off some energy. If you need extended care (from 8 a.m.-6 p.m.), they've got that too.
If you're on the Eastside, and your kids love art, sign them up for one of two mid-winter break camps this year. If you're in the Lake Washington School District, you'll want to take advantage of this quick two-day camp that lines up with the district's break. And if you're in the Bellevue School District, sign your kids up for the four-day camp happening the following week. No matter which camp you choose, little artists will work alongside owner Noga Unger creating art and learning about famous world artists. Bring a lunch, and get ready to create something new (and learn a little bit too).
Good to Know: There's also a one-day camp offered on President's Day (Feb. 20) if you want to pad your week in either direction.
It’s tough enough for a grown-up to process tragedy; young children often have an even harder time when it comes to understanding and dealing with traumatic experiences. And that’s where Sesame Street is stepping in. The beloved children’s show has a video series that’s aimed at helping kids cope with trauma.
The free online resources include videos, books, activities and games that are available in both English and Spanish. The Sesame Street materials don’t just help kids to deal with major worldwide or newsworthy trauma, they also help them cope with experiences that are personally traumatic.
Feelings aren’t exactly easy for a young child to understand. And when stress and anxiety take over, they aren’t always equipped to handle what’s going on inside. This series provides ways to calm down, handle frustration and learn how to feel safe when things get scary.
The videos are made for little ones to watch with their parent or caregiver. Not only can kids get an education in handling heavy feelings, but (by watching the materials with a caring adult) they can also build relationships. This adds to the nurturing effect of the videos and can help kids feel safe and secure.
Now that you’ve been to the Museum of Science and Industry and The Field so many times you could lead a tour, it’s time to earn a little extra credit. When you’re craving something new and culture’s on the menu, check out a super-secret museum that’s just a mini road trip away. We dug up goodies that are within an hour’s drive of Chicago. Scroll through to see them all, from a secret nature center to an auto museum with superhero appeal.
Does your kid go crazy for cars? An hour northwest of Chicago, this wheel-tastic museum is a draw for car nuts of all ages. Famous movie cars from Fast & Furious 7, Batman Begins, Dark Knight and Dark Knight Rises, National Lampoon's Vacation and more. There are also plenty of coin kiddie rides for the youngest children in your group.
Open daily, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.; 27582 Volo Village Rd., Volo; Online: volocars.com
Illinois Railway Museum
America’s largest railway museum is right here in Illinois and goes way beyond your everyday Metra train. Ride on a one-of-a-kind mainline train, hop aboard an old-fashioned trolley coach or take a loop in a vintage streetcar. Feel like you've seen some of these sights before? That’s because the museum has been the set for numerous transportation scenes in commercials and movies, including A League of Their Own. Perhaps the biggest attraction is the annual Day Out With Thomas. On select days in July, kids chug along on a 20-minute ride on Thomas the Tank Engine and enjoy music, magicians, clowns and a meeting with Sir Topham Hatt. Consider taking a special trip for Halloween or Christmas when the museum features holiday-themed train rides.
Established in 1931, the Hal Tyrrell Trailside Museum of Natural History is a small museum located in a historic mid-1870′s Victorian mansion. Kids will have the chance to meet live native animals, including owls, frogs, turtles and even a fox. Hands-on activities complement learning, and even toddlers will enjoy the easy animal-themed puzzles. Natural-surfaced hiking trails through the surrounding Forest Preserve are perfect for little hikers and wind through beautiful oak woodlands and along the Des Plaines River.
730 Thatcher Ave., River Forest; Online: fpdcc.com
Knock Knolls Nature Center
Tucked in a quiet residential neighborhood, this slice of nature gives visitors the chance to discover what life was like at the convergence of the East and West Branches of the DuPage River in the 1800s. You'll also get to know the local wildlife that call this corner of DuPage County home. Grab a treasure hunt sheet from the front desk and explore! The highlight is a 900-gallon freshwater fish tank filled with catfish, bass and other swimmers. You'll also track replica fossils in the floor, marvel at a living wall of plants and learn how a rainwater collection cistern works. The building sits in a 224-acre park laced with winding, forested trails and sits adjacent to a nature playground.
The Tinker cottage, gardens and three-story Swiss-inspired barn was built by businessman Robert Tinker in 1865. Flash forward to today, when you can witness its beauty and get a dose of local history. The charming cottage and over-the-top gardens have become one of Rockford’s most popular attractions. The Victorian-era decor and unique architecture will satisfy the curiosity of the parents. As for the kids, they'll have a blast romping through the iris, rose and prairie gardens as the weather warms.
Learn about Illinois in the 18th century when our state was home to French voyageurs and native Potawatomi. Operated by the Forest Preserve of Will County on an island in the Des Plaines River, this recently renovated museum features many interactive exhibits and a Native American longhouse. At a recent museum event, children participated in traditional French and Woodland Indian games and storytelling. If you visit the island in the summer, your family will want to take part in one of many nature activities like fishing, kayaking, hiking and more.
501 E. Romeo Rd. (135th Street), east of Route 53, Romeoville; Online: reconnectwithnature.org
DuPage Country Historical Museum
Housed in a building gifted by John Quincy Adams in 1891, the former Adams Memorial Library is now a museum that contains countless artifacts and materials that document DuPage County. The HO Gauge Model Train is operated by the DuPage Society of Model Engineers the 3rd and 5th Saturday every month.
Since 1852, the Graue Mill has been grinding cornmeal, its waterwheel turning at the edge of the picturesque Salt Creek. Today, the Graue Mill Museum is dedicated to bridging past and present through living-history programs that illustrate daily life of the past, including milling, spinning and weaving demonstrations. While the museum is closed in the winter, the grounds of the mill are picture-perfect year-round. Kids will love throwing pebbles into the Salt Creek and watching sticks make their way down the beautiful falls that make the mill's gristmill go round.
This quaint historical museum, which shuts down for the winter, is a bona fide local gem. You'll find it near the Illinois Prairie Path, North America’s first rails-to-trails conversion. It’s housed in a 1929 building, which was once the station for the electric Chicago Aurora and Elgin Railroad. Antique toys, historical photos and artifacts from the demolished Ovaltine factory will take you back in time and spark hot chocolate cravings.
We love doing arts and crafts, and sometimes we like a little inspiration. The Ukrainian National Museum highlights the traditional arts of Ukraine, with rows of beautiful ‘pysanky’ (decorated Easter eggs), richly embroidered costumes and other weavings and carved objects. Artifacts from the Ukraine and information about the current Ukrainian community in Chicago will help put together a mini-history lesson.
Surround your kids in a glittering array of jewels and precious stones at this gem of a museum. The museum houses the collection of Italian immigrant and businessman Joseph Lizzadro, a marvel of treasures big and small created from semi-precious and precious gems. Learn the science behind those gems and see amazing specimens of rocks, minerals and fossils from around the world. The gift shop has lots to start off your junior geologist’s own collection.
Wouldn’t it be nice to pop into an art museum for free, check out a few masterpieces, and then enjoy a snack? You can at this spot that packs the thrills and amenities of the big art museums, but on a smaller scale. We love the SMART for its temporary exhibitions and collections, which include modern art and design, and Asian and European art.
The Money Museum at the Federal Reserve Bank of Chicago
There's no better way to teach kids about saving money than taking them on a free visit to The Money Museum. Although the historical displays might be more suited to teens, taking a photo in front of a suitcase stuffed with one million dollars worth of hundred-dollar bills is worth the bragging rights for any age. Don’t forget to grab a souvenir bag of shredded currency for show-and-tell. Note: This museum is temporarily closed, but keep tabs on their website for opening information and online resources for families.
Mario Andretti’s Indy 500 racecar! Rocky Marciano’s first heavyweight championship belt! Swimmer Matt Biondi’s Olympic Gold Medals! Inspire your little athletes with a trip to the Tommy and Jo Lasorda exhibit galleries housed inside the larger Hall of Fame building. Even non-Italian-Americans will appreciate this up-close look at sports gear and memorabilia from sports celebs like Joe DiMaggio, Yogi Berra, Joe Montana, Dan Marino and Mary Lou Retton.
1431 W. Taylor St., Little Italy; Online: niashf.org
Every year, we dedicate a day to acknowledging, appreciating, and preserving our planet. Earth Day is a beautiful way to teach children the importance of keeping our world healthy and clean. This year, Portland has a whole host of events planned for getting out into the communities we love and cherish to do our part in keeping our environment happy. Bringing the kids along to these events is the perfect way to help them understand the importance of protecting our ecosystem, as well as having a little outdoor fun! Need help finding out where to go? No problem – scroll down to see our list of 2022 Earth Day events for kids!
Let’s face it – we live in a city, and in a city there is trash. We might not always have the time to stop and pick up some of that garbage we see on our daily commutes, but this April, we can make time. Bring the kiddos out to northwest Portland to spend a Saturday morning cleaning up the neighborhood! The Hostel Cafe is acting as the hub for this Earth Day tradition, and they’ll have you covered. SOLVE Oregon will provide the bags, the litter grabbers, the gloves, and the refreshments – all you need to do is show up in your best pair of walking shoes, but you can bring all of your own materials if you’d like!
Where: Northwest Portland International Hostel – 479 NW 18th Ave., Portland, OR When: Apr. 23, 2022 from 9- 11 a.m. Online: Event Details
Trail Work in Forest Park
Portland is home the largest urban forest in the country. It offers local families gorgeous trials to bike and hike throughout the year. What better way to celebrate Earth Day then by keeping Forest Park trails clean and healthy. Join Portland families in our city's beloved Forest Park for the annual trail work party with the Forest Park Conservancy. Attendees will work throughout the morning until noon working on the trails. Sign-up is required in advance.
Cleaning up the streets and giving to outdoor programs are great ways to get involved for Earth Day this year, but what if you need a little something extra to challenge your green-ness? Corvallis Environmental Center [CEC] has just the thing for you! Take up the challenge of diminishing your transportation-carbon footprint for all of April by getting creative for when you’re on the go! Gather the kids and brainstorm all the fun ways to get to the park, the store, or their friends’ houses! By bus? By bike? By foot? The options are nearly limitless, especially here in Portland. See how much of a difference you can make this month, and as a bonus, you’ll avoid the crazy gas prices at your neighborhood fuel spot.
As Portlanders, we spend a lot of time enjoying the beauty that is Forest Park. But how often do we take the time to tend to it? This April, the Forest Park Conservancy is giving you and your family an opportunity to do just that. Teaching the kids about the harm caused by invasive species is a great way to introduce them to the makeup of their surrounding environment. And then they get to help rid the park of all that ivy! Suit the whole family up in long pants and close-toed shoes, and spend your Saturday at the Birch Trailhead – Forest Park Conservancy will provide all necessary trainings, tools, and gloves.
This full-day event is sure to get the kids pumped about celebrating our awesome planet. Get to know your neighbors and show up on Earth Day at Washington Highschool to enjoy an afternoon of panel discussions, arts & crafts, and live music! Make sure to bring props, homemade signs, and your best Earth accessories so you can take part in the parade that happens at 5 PM! After that, you can make your way to Clinton Street Records for a little pre-screening bash before settling in at the Clinton Theater to watch Rad Earth [$10/person] with your family. There is no better way to get out into your community, have quality family time, and appreciate the beautiful place we call home.
Where: Revolution Hall Field [AKA Washington Highschool] – 1300 SE Stark St., Portland, OR When: Apr. 22, 1- 9 p.m. Online:Event Details
Looks like holding our breath that Chicago Public Schools would return to in-person learning did the trick, a plan is in place to get kids back in seats. But, we still have scheduled no-school days coming up whether it be for Martin Luther King Jr. Day, in-service days or parent-teacher conferences. We gathered creative ideas to keep kids entertained, moving and learning when they have days off. We’ll keep adding to the list as new options pop up, so bookmark this story and check back in.
Camps & Classes
Stay Active at Home with Chicago Park District
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The Chicago Park District is offering 50 different free at-home classes the week of Jan. 10. to keep kids moving and you can access their on-demand content any time. You'll find options for fitness, storytelling, arts & culture, activity sheets and even videos that teach sign language.
Sign Kids Up for In-Person Cooking Camp
When you find yourself with random days off from school, The Kids' Table has you covered with full-day camps that offer the perfect mix of cooking, eating and play. Kids spend half their day in the kitchen chopping, grating and rolling their way to delicious dishes with the guidance of chef instructors. The rest of the day is reserved for a craft, a movie or some good old 'ole fashion play. Currently, camps are scheduled for Jan. 13, 14, 17 & 28, Feb. 21 & Apr. 8.
Keep an eye on BASH xyz'sInstagramand website for last-minute camp announcements that keep kids moving and exercising those creative juices.
Make a Day of it Camp at Wishcraft
Wishcraft in Lakeview offers kids ages 5-12 a place to get creative with day-long camps. Class is 9 a.m.-3 p.m. with early drop-off options. They have a camp available on Jan. 28. Beware, they fill up fast!
Art Class with Mr. Dave Music
Mr. Dave Music is offering Art + Sound: Paint to the Music class for ages 3-6 on Wednesdays, 4 p.m.-4:35 p.m. This open-ended art experience with Noodle Art Studio utilizes paint in innovative ways to allow kids to interpret art in a way that feels authentic to them. For kids up to 5, he offers in-person classes all week long.
Ballet & Music + Movement with Bubbles Academy
Bubbles Academy is offering two free virtual classes for Chicago kids. Virtual Bubble Ballet on Tuesdays in January, 9 a.m.-9:20 a.m., introduces kids ages 2-5 to the basics of ballet through thematic storytelling. They'll get both their bodies and imaginations moving.
Virtual Music + Movement unites music lovers and those who like to move! Kids ages 5 & under can join in for a class for jammin', singing, dancing and instrumental fun on Fridays in January at 11 a.m.
Get Outside & Move
Take a Walk in Awe at Morton Arboretum
Five massive outdoor sculptures created exclusively for Morton Arboretum by artist Daniel Popper rise above the natural landscapes in the Human + Nature exhibition. The 15- to 26-foot-tall sculptures are installed across the 1,700-acre site and lead guests to areas they may not otherwise explore. Using thought-provoking human forms paired with elements of nature, each piece will bring attention to the deep connections between humans and nature.
Bundle Up & Figure 8
Sock skating on a wooden floor is a blast, but there's nothing like feeling the cool breeze on your face as you glide across a real ice rink. Lace up for this essential winter activity. Chicago has rinks that are free, some that are new and many offer loads of other activities in the same location. See for yourself by reading Ice, Ice Baby: Chill Places to Ice Skate in Chicago.
Take Ski or Snowboard Lessons
Maria Chambers
Get the kids outside for much-needed winter fun at Four Lakes Alpine Snowports in Lisle. From ski and snowboard private or semi-private lessons for beginners to a challenging terrain park for the most adventurous, Four Lakes is the close-by cure for your winter boredom.
Go on a Scavenger Hunt
Show your kids the coolness of their hometown with this scavenger hunt idea. It’ll take you to the tippy-top of the Navy Pier Ferris Wheel and strolling the Chicago River to see the moveable bridges (or, view them from the warmth of your car). Best part? You can do all this in a totally safe, socially distanced way that’ll keep Covid-19 far, far away. You can download this scavenger hunt for kids here.
See Eagles at Starved Rock
How about a quick nature field trip? Starting in mid-January, thousands of eagles migrate to Starved Rock State Parkand stay through March. They’re easy to spot as they soar through the sky or perch on the treetops. Bring binoculars!
Take part in Winterland at Gallagher Way's newest attraction, ice bumper cars. Bump, slide and spin on The Rink, Jan. 3-Jan. 30.
Bundle Up for a Wintry Hike
We’ll admit, a Chicago winter can be tough. But, a dose of fresh air, unforgettable scenery and a chance to spy on animals in their natural habitat is a guaranteed day of wintry family fun. There are beautiful trails all around the city that'll have you lacing up your boots, strapping an infant to your back and exploring.
Chicago Children's Museum created online resources to stay connected and support Chicago families. For creative ideas to keep the kids entertained and learning, visit their Recipes for Play at Home and Parenting Playbook pages. These online resources give at-home activities, video guides and well-curated content.
Tap Kohl Children's Museum of Play Ideas
Visit Kohl Children's Museum's Teaching Resources page which was created to support parents, caregivers and teachers in bringing interactive lessons to the home.
Give the Kids a Good Laugh
Storytown Improv
Plan a virtual playdate for the kids with the help of Storytown Improv. While Storytown has halted their family-favorite in-person performances, they are using the same tools that have made their Saturday performances a success to host virtual laugh sessions.
Get Help with Creativity for Indoor Activities
From crafting your own robots to writing stories, hereare more than 100 activities and inside games for kids that’ll keep everyone busy.
Fun Indoor Spots
Museum of Illusions
MOI has over 80 mind-bending illusions and is designed in a way that encourages kids to have fun while learning the mechanics behind each and every illusion. They have a variety of art-focused brain teasers around the museum that offer kids a bit of a challenge, as well.
Skydeck Chicago
Located 103 stories atop world-famous Willis Tower, Skydeck Chicago is the perfect destination for a family field trip. They recently underwent an extensive redevelopment of the lower level, delivering a brand-new interactive museum that celebrates the unique personality, history, neighborhoods and sites of Chicago.
In advance of visiting, set up a mini lesson plan and reference Skydeck’s extensive Teacher’s Guide. You'll find topics related to the history, design and construction of Willis Tower, environmental efforts at the building, and even lesson plans and worksheets for subjects including physics, social studies and middle school science. While visiting, participate in a Scavenger Hunt to keep the kids engaged and print Skydeck coloring sheets.
Indulge in Good Food & Drink
Get a Sugar Fix at Jo Jo's Shake Bar
Jo Jo's Shake Bar
Jo Jo's Shake Bar's heated Winter Wonderland tent boasts a massive Christmas tree, oversized presents, private igloos and a red Ford pick-up truck, making it a perfect backdrop to snap a photo while you throw down one of the biggest, most-decorated milkshakes you've ever seen. While the Wonderland is only around until Jan. 17, their shake creations are available year-round.
Hunt for Chicago’s Best Cup of Hot Cocoa
When Jack Frost comes nipping at your nose, it’s time to go sipping. Make a day off on a wintry Chicago day a little easier to swallow with a steaming cup of hot chocolate. If your kids love cocoa—or need a good introduction to it—check out local restaurants or cafes that make their own from scratch.
Intro Your Kids to a Chicago Hot Dog
Love ’em or leave ’em, hot dogs are big in Chicago, and if your kids haven’t begged for one yet, they will soon. We love the on-the-go ease (no silverware!) and colorful condiments (kids get a pass where the sacrilege of using ketchup is concerned). Use days off as an excuse to grab one at a legendary local hot dog spot and turn eating into an adventure.
Employ Extra Hands
Need Help with a Sitter?
Urban Sitter
Use our list of babysitting services to find childcare help if you need a bit of help balancing school closures and work commitments, or just an extra set of hands.
Set Up Meal Deliveries
Check one thing off your to-do list by signing up for one of our favorite food delivery services.
