ML Interest Tag: outdoor-exploration

16 Holiday Movies to Watch with Your Toddler This Year

by DeAnna Janes

Unwrap the magic of the season with a sleigh full of heartwarming toddler-friendly titles, all streaming on your favorite platforms

Baby, it’s cold outside! Thank goodness there’s a load of indoor fun just waiting to be streamed. Whether you and your tiny tots are snowed in or are spending the weekend stringing popcorn, you’re going to want the perfect movie—so we’ve curated a list of the best Christmas movies for toddlers. From retro classics to modern favorites featuring new characters and inventive songbooks, these films and specials are a cozy way to celebrate the spirit of the season. Read on for our picks and don’t worry: We won’t tell if you borrow a popcorn string from the tree for a snack.

Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer

Stop-motion is making a comeback! From Marcel the Shell with Shoes On to Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio, the flipbook style of storytelling is finding new fandom. No reason we can’t introduce littles to one of the first to perfect the form, right? Even better: This holiday origin story about how Rudolph found his place at the front of Santa’s sleigh team celebrates acceptance and self-discovery. 

Available on Amazon

Winnie the Pooh: A Very Merry Pooh Year

A Very Merry Pooh Year is a great Christmas movie for toddlers
Walt Disney Studios

In this magical Christmas movie for toddlers, everyone's favorite honey-gold teddy recalls a past holiday season before setting resolutions for the New Year around the Pooh Corner. Your own honey bunch will want to bounce with Tigger, be brave with Piglet, and throw an arm around Eeyore. Just like you did when you were little.

Available on Disney+

Strawberry Shortcake’s Perfect Holiday

Netflix

A tasty delight about Strawberry Shortcake and her attempt to make the holiday perfect, this Netflix animated film is as good as it looks. As Miss SS and her Berry Buddies get ready for their winter festival, themes of friendship and personal growth outweigh the pursuit of perfection—fantastic lessons that are never too early to learn. 

Available on Netflix

Snoopy Presents: For Auld Lang Syne

Snoopy Presents: For Auld Lang Syne is a good Christmas movie for toddlers
Apple TV

For every special occasion, there’s a Peanuts special. So after you’ve wrapped up Christmas, be sure to usher in the New Year with the gang, too. This 2021 holiday special was animated in the WildBrain studio’s new style, with Charles Schulz’s timeless characters brought to life through rich, vibrant color and their touching narratives hitting all the right notes.    

Available on Apple TV+

All I Want for Christmas Is You

NBC Universal

Parents will love that this adorable computer-animated film is based on the unofficial Queen of Christmas’s chart-topping jingle (yes, Mariah Carey); baby boppers will revel in the film’s story about a little girl who wants to prove to her parents she’s ready for a puppy.

Available on Amazon

A Garfield Christmas 

CBS

If there’s anyone we love more than Garfield, it’s Grandma! In this 1987 short film, Garfield shares our sentiment, as he, Odie, and their human, John, pack up the old sedan and head for Grandma’s house. It’s a holiday that taps into the pasta-loving cat’s charm, delivering a down-home good time for everyone.

Available on Peacock

Related: The Best Holiday Movies on Netflix, Disney+, Amazon & Apple TV+ This Year

How the Grinch Stole Christmas

How the Grinch Stole Christmas is a Christmas movie for toddlers
Warner Bros.

A little bit salty, a little bit sweet, this forever classic Christmas movie for toddlers has a happy ending that captures the spirit of the season. Clocking in at just less than a half hour, it’s the perfect length for your giggle box’s attention span, especially those who, like Cindy Lou Who, are not much more than two.

Available on Peacock.

The Snowman

The Snowman is a good Christmas movie for toddlers

Many of the best holiday movies for toddlers and preschoolers are based on books. Our favorite? The Snowman, adapted from Raymond Briggs’s wordless tale. With a gentle, ethereal vibe that won’t scare mini snowballs, it’s just the wondrous gem to watch after building a frosty buddy in the backyard. 

Available on Pluto TV

 

The Polar Express

The Polar Express is a Christmas movie for toddlers
Castle Rock Entertainment

Locomotive-loving kids will toot their horns for this visual feast about a boy who boards a magical train headed straight for Santa’s domain. They’ll love it even more if bigger kids make them paper train tickets and hot cocoa. Quick note: There are a few intense scenes, like the dramatic chase, so keep the remote ready to skip ahead if need be.

Available on Max

A Charlie Brown Christmas

A Charlie Brown Christmas is a good Christmas movie for toddlers

Yes, it’s the classic special that comforted you every year during your childhood, and it’s just as lovely as you remember. Introduce your silly peanuts to Charlie, Snoopy, Linus, and the rest of the group as they search for the true meaning of Christmas. And keep tissues close for the heartfelt pageant at the end.

Available on Apple TV+

The Snowy Day

The Snowy Day is a good Christmas movie for toddlers
Amazon Studios

An adaptation of Ezra Jack Keats’s acclaimed picture book, this animated adventure captures the spirit of outdoor exploration and wintertime wonder as it tags along with protagonist Peter on his way to Nana’s. At just under an hour, you can squeeze it in after dinner and still get your toddler tucked in on time.

Available on Amazon

The Muppet Christmas Carol

Muppet Christmas Carol is a good Christmas movie for toddlers
Walt Disney Pictures

Featuring kiddos’ favorite felted friends, this hilarious musical reworks Charles Dickens’s 19th-century novella into a zany romp that will keep the chuckles chuckling. With Kermit as Bob Cratchit and Michael Cain as Scrooge, there’s no shortage of fun surprises. Some of the ghosts might be too much for toddlers, so keep the remote handy.

Available on Disney+

Frosty the Snowman

Get ready to sing along with the beloved holiday tune featured in this 2D-animated classic. About the lovable and friendly Frosty, the story sees the snow buddy and his friends keep his magic hat out of the clutches of a greedy magician. Something to be aware of: There’s a scene in which Frosty melts, which can make the little ones sad.  

Available on Amazon

Prep & Landing

Prep and Landing is a fun Christmas movie for toddlers
ABC

Sure to elicit giggles, this clever holiday story features elves working together to prepare for Christmas. At only 22 minutes, you can watch this and then go on to the second short feature with elves Wayne and Lanny, Prep & Landing: Naughty vs. Nice. It’s a newer Christmas movie for toddlers that's just right for the preschool set.

Available on Apple TV+

Mickey's Twice Upon a Christmas

Walt Disney Studios

House of Mouse fans will cheer for this robust collection of holiday shorts featuring Mickey, Goofy, Minnie, and the rest of the gang. It’s actually the sequel assortment to Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas, and with so much kindness and good cheer from the menagerie, you’ll want to stock up on both.

Available on Disney+

The Nutcracker

Warner Bros.

Show us a toddler who can sit through an entire ballet. We’ll wait … Exactly! That’s why you should just bring the show to them. In this 1993 take on the tale of Clara, the Mouse King, and those mesmerizing Sugar Plum Fairies, your budding bunhead can spin right along with New York City Ballet’s principals.  

Available on Hulu

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7 Questions to Ask When Touring Preschools

by Marianella Orlando
Partner Content

Preschool is a big moment for toddlers and parents alike. It’s either the first time little ones are venturing from the nurturing confines of home, or you’re gearing up for the big transition from daycare.

As parents, this makes choosing a preschool paramount. From the school environment and education philosophy to the curriculum, teachers, and staff, there’s a lot to consider when touring facilities.

To help guide you as you’re scoping out the hallways, we’ve turned to the experts at Bright Horizons, a leading global provider of early education and preschool centers for over 30 years, for the top questions to ask when making the decision for your family.

Get ready to screenshot this list and take some notes!

1. How does your curriculum differ from other preschools?

Preschool can be a great launching pad for kindergarten, helping your little learner grow as a whole (cognitively, socially, and emotionally). As every school fosters a different educational philosophy, it’s important to investigate the curriculum to ensure it’s balanced to your educational standards. For example, a well-rounded program incorporates early math skills, literacy, language development, creative expression, music, and playtime.

2. What qualifications are required for all teachers and staff?

A school’s teaching staff is key in your child’s educational success. Ask if teachers (and substitutes) are required to receive training hours in the curriculum taught. Is there a minimum level of education required for teachers? Is there a trained nurse on staff? At Bright Horizons, teachers are encouraged to not only further their own education, but to also stay current on effective education techniques.

3. What’s your student-to-teacher ratio, and classroom size?

Smaller class sizes and a low student-to-teacher ratio (a.k.a. the number of students per teacher) can make all the difference in your child’s development. The lower the number, the more individualized attention your preschooler will receive on a daily basis.

4. What are your parental involvement and communication policies?

The saying that it takes a village extends well into the realm of education. Teachers and staff who encourage parental involvement, provide regular updates, host parent-teacher conferences, and allow opportunities for participation in school activities can set one preschool apart from the next. Toss in parental resources, like webinars, podcasts, and articles, as Bright Horizons recommends, and you’ve landed yourself a winner.

5. What is your approach to outdoor playtime?

There’s no denying that little ones love playtime, and fortunately, their desire for outdoor exploration actually aids in their development. As you tour preschools, assess how they incorporate outdoor play into their daily routine, and check out their outdoor spaces to see if it allows for exploration and connection to the great outdoors in a fun and safe environment.

6. Is potty training a requirement in order to enroll?

If your tot is in the process of potty training or will be during the preschool years, it’s crucial to understand the school’s policies. Some schools require children to be fully potty trained before enrollment, while others may offer support and flexibility during this milestone. Are they set up to be your partner in potty training?

7. What health, safety, and security protocols do you have set in place?

When considering schools, your child’s overall well-being is of the utmost importance. Inquire about health, hygiene, safety, and security protocols, as well as procedures for allergies, illnesses, and emergencies. Is there someone on staff trained to use an EpiPen, if needed? Is it equipped with updated equipment and resources? Are there regular security drills and training sessions for staff? Is there controlled access to the premises, and proper fencing?

Ultimately, take the time to visit in person and ask all of these questions (and then some!). And for a headstart on preschool centers that check off all the boxes, turn to brighthorizons.com. The best time to learn more about their early preschool programs is now, as they are currently open for fall enrollment!

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12 Museums in California That’ll Spark Curiosity, Creativity & Learning

by Marianella Orlando
Partner Content

Gone are the days when going to the museum with your kids meant hearing them complain about being bored for, what felt like, hours’ on end. Now, an afternoon trip or play date equates to watching (and joining!) your little learners as they happily explore fun exhibits and unique hands-on activities.

The San Francisco Bay Area fortunately has no shortage of science centers and children’s museums that can inspire your kids, no matter their age or interest.

“The San Francisco Bay Area has one of the highest concentrations of museums and science centers in the world,” says Carol Tang, Executive Director of the Children’s Creativity Museum. “As a parent, I’ve appreciated exploring different museums because the entire family can find something new to do, discover new interests and learn new things about the world around us.”

In addition to reaping the benefits of visiting a museum–like increased creativity, literacy, critical thinking, and curiosity–kiddos can even receive higher achievement scores in reading, math, and science, according to the Institute of Museum and Library Services.

Keep reading to discover 12 museums that cater to a wide range of interests, from STEM learning and reading to nature and more!

1. Children’s Creativity Museum

With a mission to foster creativity and collaboration, the Children’s Creativity Museum in San Francisco provides two floors of hands-on, multimedia arts and technology experiences. Children ages two to 12 can enjoy the museums’s programs and exhibits, which are specifically designed to spark their imagination and creative confidence, from a music creation station and an animation studio to a storybook park and innovation lab. Don’t leave without taking a spin on the 100-year-old LeRoy King Carousel and discover its fascinating history.

San Francisco, creativity.org

2. The Lawrence Hall of Science

Calling all budding scientists and researchers, The Lawrence Hall of Science (LHS) is just for them! As UC Berkeley’s public science center, LHS features an interactive planetarium, a biology discovery lab, a computer lab, various hands-on exhibits and an inside look at Berkeley’s cutting-edge research. Be sure to check out LHS’ new outdoor exhibit, “Forces that Shape the Bay,” where kids can enjoy the beauty of the Bay while also discovering the climatic, geologic, marine and human forces that shaped it.

Berkeley, lawrencehallofscience.org

3. The Tech Interactive

Winner of the 2015 National Medal for Museum and Library service, The Tech Interactive is a wonderful science and technology center for families in the San Jose and surrounding areas. Offering educational hands-on activities, experimental labs, design challenges and immersive STEAM education resources, the museum empowers children of all ages to innovate with creativity, curiosity and compassion.

San Jose, thetech.org

4. Chabot Space and Science Center

An official visitor center for NASA’s Ames Research Center, the Chabot Space and Science Center brings some of space on Earth with its full dome planetarium, space artifacts and the largest research-level observatory complex. For sights out of this world, take a peek through one of three large-scale telescopes, which is regularly available to the public for live viewing.

Oakland, chabotspace.org

5. Exploratorium

Exploration is the name of the game at this museum that takes hands-on learning to a whole new level. With six indoor and outdoor galleries (that feature over 600 interactive exhibits your kids can tinker with, might we add!), your family can easily spend an entire day getting lost in the realm of science, art and human perception. Toddlers will love making mega bubbles, looking at their reflection in a giant mirror and exploring a colorless world in a special monochromatic room, while teens can create lifesize, rainbow-colored images and stroll across a fog installation bridge. Exploratorium truly has something for everyone—parents, included!

San Francisco, exploratorium.edu

6. California Academy of Sciences

Your little ones can get back to nature at the California Academy of Sciences whose mission is to regenerate the Earth’s damaged ecosystems and climate through collaboration, learning and science. Museum goers can get lost in the wonders of the aquarium, planetarium and man-made rainforest. Snap a picture with the natural history museum’s jaw-dropping 87-foot-long blue whale skeleton and towering T. rex.

San Francisco, calacademy.org

7. Bay Area Discovery Museum

Mud pies are on the menu at the Bay Area Discovery Museum, where children can cook up their best concoction with baking sheets, pots, pans, and an old school stove. Located at the foot of the Golden Gate Bridge, spanning across 7.5 acres, the museum also features woodshopping, an art studio, three large outdoor treehouses, a life-sized fishing boat, and even a mini beach for additional outside fun.

Sausalito, bayareadiscoverymuseum.org

8. Children’s Discovery Museum

Playtime, creativity, curiosity and lifelong learning is the name of the game at Children’s Discovery Museum of San Jose. Students of every age can enjoy indoor and outdoor interactive exhibits, including a two-story air maze, bubble-creation station, pretend farmer’s market and replica fossil digging, to name a few. For an engaging activity the entire family can participate in, test your discovery skills with the museum’s Discover Duck Scavenger Hunt. Families can win a special prize upon finding 20 wooden duck cut-outs hidden throughout the museum–bonus points for locating five extra ducks!

San Jose, cdm.org

9. CuriOdyssey

CuriOdyssey is a trifecta of every child’s favorite activities, combining a science museum, a zoo and a playground conveniently under one roof. At the zoo, budding zoologists will love seeing the nearly 100 animals that are native to the state, from otters and bobcats to owls, eagles and bearded dragons. Inside the science museum, curious learners can explore all of their senses through its innovative exhibits. Let your tots burn off some energy at the 4,000-square-foot outdoor playground where they can spin, swing and slide for hours’ worth of fun.

San Mateo, curiodyssey.org

10. Children’s Fairyland

Your children’s favorite nursery rhymes and books come to life at this museum, with close to 60 whimsical storybook-themed sets designed for outdoor exploration, like the Jack and Jilll hill, Alice in Wonderland tunnel and The Jolly Roger pirate ship. Touting 10 acres of gardens, kiddos up to eight years old can stroll the grounds and get up close and personal with friendly animals on site.

Oakland, fairyland.org

11. Palo Alto Jr. Museum and Zoo

Kids get the best of both worlds at the Palo Alto Junior Museum & Zoo where they can come nose-to-nose with animals outside at the zoo one moment, then engage with scientific activities inside the museum the next. Children can fuel their curiosity by building circuits, playing instruments, creating dioramas and experimenting with the exciting phenomena of gravity, inertia, electricty and energy. The museum also touts an extensive natural history collection for even more playful exploration.

Palo Alto, paloaltozoo.org

12. Computer History Museum

Completely wow your tiny techie with a look at old computers and equipment that humans did indeed use at one point in time at this unique museum. With mind-blowing exhibits that highlight the history of emojis and the revolution of technology and software, both you and your children will be amazed and inspired. Your future graphic designer can learn Photoshop from the pros, while your tech-savvy teen can try their hand at coding. Plus: experience the sights and sounds of classic computing for the nostalgia you didn’t know you needed.

Mountain View, computerhistory.org

 

While walk-ups are welcomed at each museum, purchasing tickets in advance is strongly encouraged! Be sure to check out their website for more information.

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6 Ways Florida Can Heat Up Your Winter

by Jodi Cohen
Partner Content

 

It’s that time of year where Summer nostalgia begins to set in…a longing for those reliably warm days, an itch for outdoor exploration and adventure, along with fond memories of mesmerizing sunsets overlooking the ocean.

The good news is, Florida offers all of these experiences (and more) year round. No matter the type of escape you and your family are craving, you can find it in Florida.

From beaches, ecological activities and national parks to museums, theme parks, nightlife, culture and more, we’ve gathered six destinations for you to explore across Florida, from top to bottom.

In any location you choose, Marriott Bonvoy makes planning and booking your getaway a breeze, so you can check that off your list.

For a Mix of Sun & Adventure, Explore Jacksonville:

Jacksonville is the gem of North Florida. You’re sure to find a peaceful place along its 22 miles of sun-kissed beaches. Kids can fill their beach days building sand castles and playing in the water while you catch up on some uninterrupted sun-time, or join right in!  The city also delivers endless opportunities for family fun - you can spend hours exploring the Jacksonville Zoo, home to over 2000 rare and exotic animals. The Zoo also boasts gardens, a wild-life carousel and a play park. If your family is up for some active adventure, rent bikes and cruise through town to find eclectic shopping and to-die-for dining.

For All-Day Outdoor Options, Explore the Florida Panhandle:

There’s something for everyone across the Panhandle. If your family loves golf, you’ll find more incredible golf courses than you can ever hope to play. If you love watersports, you’ll be in paradise. If you just need beach time, you won’t find a place more gorgeous than the picturesque white sand beaches and emerald waters of the Florida Panhandle. It’s your vacation–you truly can do it all.

For Days Filled with Action-Packed Fun, Explore Orlando:

Orlando is a place where you can fill your heart with wonder, no matter your age. Families with kids young and old can pack in so much adventure - from visiting one of the many theme parks, to Gatorland, to the Aquarium, to the green oasis of Kelly Park - you won’t find yourself without options, or unforgettable memories.

For White Sands and Window Shopping, Explore Tampa Bay:

Discover the perfect mix of upscale, urban entertainment and laid-back beach days in Tampa Bay. Your family has the opportunity to plan a variety of itineraries from strolling the nation’s best beach at Clearwater Beach, to the 2.6 miles of riverwalk in Tampa. For arts & culture, explore one of many museums including Glazer Children’s Museum, the Chihuly Collection, or the Marine Aquarium. Last but not least, your family will love sampling the delicious fare throughout St. Petersburg and Sarasota.

For Sunny Days that Turn Into Memorable Nights, Explore South Florida:

From Miami to Fort Lauderdale to Palm Beach, start your day by soaking up the sun, end it under the stars. South Florida boasts incredible food, art and natural beauty, creating endless opportunities for adventure for you and your loved ones. Itinerary inspiration includes exploring the Everglades, the largest wetlands in the world. Take your adventurous ones on an Alligator airboat ride they won’t forget. Also on the list, the Flamingo Gardens of Fort Lauderdale. Explore on your own, or hop on the guided tram tour through the tropical rainforest and natural jungle.

For a Tropical-Meets-Artsy Retreat, Explore the Florida Keys:

Keep heading south because the Florida Keys offer something for every sun-starved heart and beach lover. Islamorada is a tiny arts mecca. Key West has always been a destination for celebrations of all kinds. In between, you’ll find opportunities for outdoor recreation, epic fishing, swimming with dolphins and miles upon miles of tropical beaches.

No matter the region, you can’t go wrong. Let Marriot Bonvoy kick-off your vacation exploration with their full offering of hotels for every kind of traveler. Click here to start planning your family’s sunny winter getaway.

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Register Now! 15 Summer Day Camps That Fill Up Fast

by Mary Martha Aubry

It may still be chilly outside, but summer is just around the corner. Here are all the best summer camps near Washington, DC with a huge variety of adventures. If your kids love outdoor exploration, check out bicycling, horseback riding, kayaking, and rock climbing-themed camps. To enrich creative minds, try arts, crafts, and theater camps. We haven’t ditched COVID yet, but the following camps are working hard to make sure your little ones (and teens) have fun while staying safe. Scroll down to find the best match for your camper.

In the City

Mr. Tony's Adventure Camp

iStock

Let's face it: as much as D.C. has to offer, finding affordable summer camps that are also educational and fun is a big challenge. At Mr. Tony's Adventure Camp, kids get out into the city to experience all that the city has to offer. Boasting an 8-to-1 ratio of staff to campers which keeps kids engaged and safe while exploring the city. Mr. Tony's is a great place to let your camper have some hands-on fun: spend the day in natural areas like Kingman Island, RFK Fields, or Langdon Park or visit one of the Smithsonians, taking a simple short city bus path to museums.

When: June 27 - Aug. 12
Cost: $250-$300/week
Where: Varies
Online: dcadventurecamp.com

Rock Creek Park Horse Center Camp

Kelly Forrister via Unsplash

Have your campers always dreamed of owning their own horse? This summer is the perfect opportunity for them to spend a week learning all the different aspects of horse ownership. Campers will bond with their horses as they take on the role of rider, but also groomer, a feeder, a waterer, and even a stall mucker.

When: June 13 - Aug. 12
Cost: $570 half day; $850 full day
Where: 5100 Glover Road, NW, Washington, DC
Online: rockcreekhorsecenter.com

DC Way's Summer Soccer Camp

DC Way

Spend summer on the fields with this soccer camp geared towards kids 5-13. Daily mini sessions (3 hrs.) are dedicated to learning a new skill designed to turn your little player into a pro. Want to send your kid off for the day? Fill their afternoon with scrimmages, fun competitions and free play at this outdoor-only camp. Campers must bring their own water bottles and must wear a mask at all times. 

When: June 27-July 1, July 5-8, July 11-15, July 18-22, Aug. 1-5, Aug. 8-12, Aug. 15-19, Aug. 22-26
Cost: $220/3 hr. mini sessions for 5 days; $375/full day for 5 days; $510/extended full day for 5 days
Where: Tyler Elementary School (ages 5-13), 1001 G St. SE, Capitol Hill; The RFK Fields (ages 7 & up) 401 Oklahoma Ave NE, RFK Campus
Online: dcway.com

Pedalheads Bike Camp

Pedalheads

One of the more unique summer camps that you will find – this week-long day camp specializes in helping kids as young as 3 get-off-training wheels and ride on their own – often times in as short as one week. Helping even the most tentative of kids, they focus on safety, fun, and skills and more than anything want to build confidence and a love of biking for the campers in their program. For those with kids who can ride already, Pedalheads also offers road preparation levels. 

Editor's Note: At the time of publishing, summer camp dates had not yet been released. 

When: July-Aug.
Cost: Starting at $239/week 
Where: Capitol Hill, Western DC, Bethesda 
Online: pedalheads.com

DPR Summer Camps

iStock

Held at recreation centers in each of DC's wards, these camps run by DC"s Department of Parks and Recreation Kids are geared towards kids 3-16. There are various camp offerings, like Sports Camps and Aqua Camps that fill each day sports, games and arts and crafts with lessons highlighting personal growth and environmental stewardship. DPR also offers a Camp-at-Home activity packet for kids 3-13 for free. 

When: June 27-July 8, July 11-22, July 25-Aug. 5, Aug. 8-19
Cost: $135/week for most sessions; $185/aqua camps
Where: DPR Recreation Centers; varies by ward 
Online: dpr.dc.gov

Home Run Baseball Camp

Pixabay via Pexels

Girls and boys ages 4-12 will knock it out of the park at this baseball-themed camp. This day camp is designed to get your little slugger improving their batting average FAST! Coaches here believe in repetition to build technical skills, so expect your camper to get 150 ground balls a day and over a 100 swings in batting practice! 

When: Sessions run June 6- Sept. 1
Cost: $475/session (50% off sibling discount)
Where: Capitol Hill & AU Park 
Online: homerunbaseballcamp.com

All Sports & Games Summer Camps

Hooped Nation

This outdoor-only camp offers boys and girls in grades 1-8 an opportunity to build on their b-ball skills with the experts from HoopED. In addition to dribbling and dunking their way through these 2 hr. clinic, they will get time to play other games on the courts (and the playground). Let your kid run off some energy while making new friends during spring break!

When: June 13 - Aug. 26
Cost: $210-295
Where: Various locations
Online: hoopeducation.com

Virginia

 

 

Virginia Outside Camps

iStock

Does your camper love to be outdoors exploring nature and wild places? Look no further than Virginia Outside. Each camp explores a different aspect of the great outdoors: fishing camp teaches campers to fish from baiting a hook to eating their catch. Campers cap off the week on a charter boat in the Chesapeake. Kids that want to learn outdoor survival skills can try a week-long session that teaches campers to build a shelter, build a fire, and put their skills to the test on an overnight adventure.

When: June 27 - Aug. 15
Cost: $495 - $595
Where: Varies
Online: virginiaoutside.com

 

Summer Camp with The Magic After-School Bus

Austin Pacheco via Unsplash

Back by popular demand, the Learning Adventure Bus will once again be transporting little learners on adventures throughout Loudoun County in the form of weekly summer camps. Meeting every morning at the Foxridge Park “bus hub,” elementary-aged learners will be whisked away to ice cream tastings (to experience the tasty scientific benefits of different states of matter firsthand), historic gardens (to collect inspiration and supplies for planting personalized miniature gardens), hiking trails (to practice practical and fun outdoor survival skills), and many more exciting destinations. Planned around weekly themes, camps will keep little ones grounded in K-5 Virginia Standards of Learning while ensuring they are happily engaged through authentic, hands-on projects and exciting meetings with local experts and community helpers. Save your seat soon, because Harold the magic school-bus-turned-makerspace only has spots for 12 little explorers each week. Happy adventuring!

When: July-Aug.
Cost: $595/week (Book before April 1 and receive $100 off)
Where: Fox Ridge Park, 525 Catoctin Circle SW, Leesburg, VA
Online: magicafterschoolbus.com

Traveling Players Ensemble Camp

Traveling Players Ensemble

For 18 years, Traveling Players Ensemble, a professional theatre company based in Great Falls, VA, has been sharing their craft with rising fourth graders to twelfth graders over summer break. The company has performed at the Kennedy Center's Millennium Stage, Colonial Williamsburg, the International Children's Festival at Wolf Trap, as well as numerous parks and summer camps throughout Fairfax County. Their mission is to enhance problem-solving skills, self-reliance, self-expression, and a heightened appreciation of both challenges and beauty by bringing great theatre into the great outdoors. At the end of each session, campers produce a professionally staged and designed performance. Sessions run two-six weeks. New this year: Camp sessions are now a sleepover experience! 


When: June  – August
Cost: $435/week Day Camp
Where: Day Camp: Tysons Corner Center (Tysons-1 Mall); Residential: 13951 Freedom Center Dr, Leesburg, VA 20176
Online: travelingplayers.org

Sportrock Climbing Summer Camp

Partrick via Flickr

Does your camper love to climb? Give them a day or a week of climbing adventure with Sport Rock. Their Indoor Base Camp (IBC) introduces kids to rock climbing at indoor facilities. From climb time to large-scale obstacle courses, the week is jam-packed with activities. If your climber is already belay-certified with Sport Rock and looking to put their skills to the test, consider Outdoor Adventure Camp. Campers will spend three days inside and weather permitting, two days climbing out side. Outdoor Climbing days will be spent at Great Falls, VA or Carderock, MD.

When: June 13 - Aug. 19
Cost: $90/day - $475/week
Where: 5308 Eisenhower Ave. Alexandria; 45935 Maries Rd. Sterling, VA 
Online: sportrock.com

Art House Seven Summer Camps

iStock

At Art House Seven, campers can engage their artistic side in a variety of themed, week-long classes. Come trot across the globe learning about the fine arts and crafts of new countries featuring art activities of all sorts! Or unearth a variety of art materials in an archeology-focused exploration making arts and crafts inspired by dinosaurs, whales, elephants and other truly gigantic animals. Perhaps you have a fiber artist in your midst? Children will have a week of creative exploration of weaving, wet felting, tie-dying, and more!

When: June 21 - July 22
Cost: Starting at $300
Where: 5537 Langston Blvd, Arlington, VA 
Online: arthouseseven.com

Maryland

 

KID Museum Summer Camps

iStock

The KID Museum in Bethesda is opening again to offer kids hands-on maker fun all summer long! Campers will be a KID and invent, explore, and make their way through the summer! Designed and led by professional maker educators, these camps develop real-world skills through fun, hands-on projects. Wizardry, Arcade Games, and Transformers are just a sampling of the weekly themes campers may explore at the KID Museum summer camps.

When: June 20 - Aug. 26
Cost: $490
Where: Davis Library 6400 Democracy Blvd. Bethesda; 3 Bethesda Metro Center Suite 140, Bethesda
Online: kid-museum.org

Calleva Summer Camp

Anny Patterson via Pexels

A definite DC favorite, Calleva Summer Camp runs from June to Aug. for ages 5 to 16 in both Maryland and Virginia. Transportation is provided at no additional cost, and buses pick up Walt Whitman High School, Glen Echo Parking Lot, Chevy Chase Elementary School and Eastern Middle School in MD and at Arlington Planetarium, Guy Mason Rec Center and the Madeira School in VA. Camp days are filled with rock climbing, fishing, boating, mountain biking, horseback riding and more. 

When: June - August
Cost: Starting at $600/week 
Where: Various locations 
Online: calleva.org

Sidewell Friends Summer Camps

Sidewell Friends

Children 3-18 can enroll in camps that cover the arts, fashion, robotics, business tennis  and more. Let your kids play all day, or opt for half-day sessions to fill their mornings with fun. 

Editor's Note: At the time of publishing, Sidwell Friend's camp line up was not yet released. This story will be updated when we receive additional information. 

Cost: Varies
Where: DC Campus, 3825 Wisconsin Ave NW; Bethesda Campus, 5100 Edgemoor Ln., Bethesda, MD 20814
When: June - August
Online: sidwellsummer.org

—Mary Martha Aubry and Meghan Yudes Meyers

featured photo: Pavel Danilyuk from Pexels

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Dirt + Water = Fun! 9 Muddy Play Ideas for Toddlers

by Oz Spies

Making mud pies, digging in the dirt and searching for roly-polies: opportunities for messy playtime in the dirt are endless. Playing in the dirt and mud isn’t just fun outdoor exploration for toddlers. Digging in the dirt gives developing immune systems a boost and nurtures creativity, all while making muddy, messy memories. From making mud bricks to edible “dirt,” you can give your little ones loads of joy with these muddy play ideas for toddlers. And yes, you should plan on your child needing a bath afterwards.

Mud Mama WV

Mud Kitchen
Making mud pies is a classic kid favorite for a reason: It’s good, dirty fun. Mud kitchens bring indoor play kitchens outside for messier creative play. Kids can start mixing up feasts in a mud kitchen when they’re toddlers and continue to host mud-pie tea parties and make dandelion soup for stuffed animal friends for years to come. Like a play kitchen, a mud kitchen can be fancy, or it can be very basic with nothing more than a few bowls and cups. You can order Mud Mama's step-by-step building plan, pictured above after being fully built, for $10 from Etsy or order one that's pre-built. You can also check thrift stores for plastic kitchen sets that can handle being outside in the elements. If you’d like a more temporary mud kitchen set-up, rinse out plastic yogurt containers or butter tubs, throw in a few sturdy spoons, and add a little water and a lot of dirt and voila! Your chef’s mud pie bakery is ready for business!

Mud Bricks
Making mud bricks is easy! Just pack dirt inside egg crates or ice cube trays and leave them in the sun. Experiment with the ratio of water to dirt: a damp but not dripping mix compacts well and creates nice solid bricks for building towers or fairy houses. In a few hours, you’ll have mud bricks that your little one can use to stack and build.

Entertain Your Toddler

Edible “Dirt”
If your toddler puts everything in his/her mouth, there’s a safe way for muddy sensory play. Whip up a batch of this taste-safe mud substitute from Entertain Your Toddler; the website has the direction to make your own. This edible dirt has a secret ingredient you may already have in your house! Mix up the fake mud, put it in a bowl with plastic measuring cups and spoons or plastic toys, and get ready for messy fun.

Clean-Up
Plastic cars, dirt and soapy water. Combine all three for instant fun. First, let your little one get their plastic cars dirty on a muddy race track or dirt-clod-filled construction site. Then, fill a plastic tub with soapy water and you can both scrub those cars clean. If dinosaurs or farm animals are more your kid's speed, swap this in for this mud and bath party.

Hello Wonderful

Garden Grow
Let little ones dig in the dirt and nurture plants with their own custom planter. You can set aside a bare patch of dirt for your little one to dig in and explore, or turn old dump trucks into garden beds a la Hello Wonderful. Fast-growing seeds like cosmos or leafy greens are a fun choice for little ones exploring in the garden, because they sprout so quickly that kids can see the impact of water and sunshine. Add a watering can and a set of sturdy plastic shovels to fuel muddy garden play, whether your little one has a fancy flower bed or just a patch of dandelions to water.

Twin Mom Refreshed

Mud Painting
Feeling ooey gooey mud between your fingers is a fascinating sensory experience for little ones. Babies can try to finger-paint with mud (or chocolate pudding if you want an edible option). Or, collect mud in a bowl and add a few pint-sized sticks and let older toddlers create masterpieces on white paper the way Twin Mom Refreshed suggests. Mud painting is an easy-to-put-together activity that combines nature exploration with fine motor skill development. Holding a tool, like a paintbrush or a stick used as a paintbrush, builds the muscles and coordination little ones will need in a few years when they learn to write.

Mud Sculptures
Think of mud as nature's playdough. Kids can mold it into all kinds of shapes, and even add twigs or leaves to create different textures. Sprinkle in a little biodegradable glitter to make the mixing and molding even more interesting.

Amazon

Bug Hunt
Digging in the dirt for roly-polies is a backyard adventure that’s just right for toddlers. With a bug home like this one, which includes a magnifying glass in the top, your new bug friends will stay safe from toddlers’ grabby hands, and budding young scientists can get a better look at the creatures living in their own backyards. You can also encourage your little ones to make bug habitats of their own by molding mud houses or piling up sticks.

Available on amazon.com, $7.95.

June Admiraal via Unsplash

Mud Puddle
This kind of muddy play is one of the easiest since nature does all the prep work for you. If you can't wait, get the hose to make your own puddles so you and your child can splash around like Peppa Pig. Stomp in the mud, stir it with a stick, float a piece of bark inside it—there’s no end to the fun that toddlers can have with mud puddles. In warm weather, lose the boots and tiptoe through puddles with bare feet. Feeling squishy mud between their toes fascinates many toddlers. Then check out the classic book Mud Puddle for a fun read and follow up your adventures with a bubble bath to get squeaky clean.

 

—Oz Spies

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Spring Break Road Trips from Atlanta to Plan Now

by Tinybeans Team

Editor’s Note: As of press time, the businesses and activities contained in this story were open and allowing visitors with COVID-19 protocols in place. Please be sure to research before visiting to ensure shutdowns have not occurred. 

While exotic vacations still may not be on the itinerary for your spring break, sunny skies and warmer weather mean it’s time to plan a road trip. Whether it’s the world’s longest pedestrian bridge in Chattanooga, a barrier island with room to roam in Jekyll Island, or white water rafting and zip lining in Asheville, we can help you find the right spot for an awesome spring break. Keep reading for ideas on your next road trip, below.

Chattanooga, Tn

Play
Change into bathing suits and let the kiddos splash in the animal-themed fountains at Coolidge Park. You can drive to the park, located on the city’s North Shore, or walk across the world’s longest pedestrian bridge. Bring a blanket to picnic while you watch boaters float by on the river.

Located adjacent to Coolidge Park, Renaissance Park is a unique place to bring the dogs, have a picnic, and enjoy scenic views of Chattanooga's downtown. Renaissance Park also includes what is known to locals as "cardboard hill," where people are encouraged to bring their own piece of cardboard to ride and slide all the way down.

The Passage at Ross's Landing marks the spot where the Trail of Tears originally began. Today, the area serves as a place to honor and remember those of the Cherokee Nation with beautiful Native American Art alongside stairs which lead out to the Tennessee River.

While in Chattanooga, take a hike from one of the trailheads that are easy to access from town. For majestic mountain views, give Sunset Rock a try. Situated atop Lookout Mountain, this trail starts off on a bluff looking out over the Tennessee River Valley. You can follow the trail down the mountain or even rock climb on the mountainside bluffs.

Tour
Ruby Falls is the nation's tallest and deepest underground waterfall open to the public. Names for the wife of the explorer who found them on accident, the falls opened to the public in 1929 and today welcomes over half a million visitors each year from around the world. You descend 260 feet by elevator into historic Lookout Mountain, explore the underground cavern, see the falls and discover this unique destination.

The Choo Choo Hotel is a beacon of history located in the heart of Downtown Chattanooga. In 1909 the Terminal Station opened as the first railway station in the South, designed in the famous Beaux Arts style. The Choo Choo Hotel was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1974 and remains one of the city’s first historic preservation projects. And, if decide not to stay at the Choo Choo Hotel, you can still swing by for a meal or drinks.

Rock City is located atop Lookout Mountain, just 6 miles from downtown Chattanooga, and is a marvel of nature featuring massive ancient rock formations, gardens with over 400 native plant species, and breathtaking "See 7 States" panoramic views. Take a journey along the Enchanted Trail, experience the magic of Fairyland Caverns and check out Mother Goose Village.

Eat
The 3rd Deck Burger Bar sits 40 feet above the Tennessee River on the 3rd deck of a riverboat, and offers outside patio seating, flat screen tv's, arcade games, darts, foosball, and ping pong—in addition to a build your own burger menu.

Find creamy gelato at Milk & Honey, but don't visit Chattanooga without a stop to the MoonPie General Store, where you can pick one up (or one dozen) and enjoy the hometown's pride—a perfect combo of marshmallow, graham, and chocolate.

Feel like barbeque? Head to Sugar's Ribs for a local's take on a great rack and pulled pork.

Stay
Chattanooga Downtown Hotels offer the most convenient location for access to Chattanooga’s top attractions, restaurants and boutique shops. Ride the free electric shuttle around the compact and easy to navigate downtown Chattanooga area. The Gatsby themed Read House is conveniently located in the heart of downtown and is in walking distance from the city’s greatest attractions.

Cabins in Chattanooga are perfect for family vacations or couples preferring a bit of privacy in rustic or modern cabins. Chattanooga Vacation Rentals currently manages over 25 cabins and homes available for rent around the Chattanooga area. The historic Pot Point Cabin on the Tennessee River sleeps up to 10 and the Trail’s End log cabin on Signal Mountain sleeps up to 12.

Jekyll Island, Ga

S. Massey

Play
For the beach lovers, Jekyll Island offers wide, flat beaches that are particularly appealing to kiddos for their endless supply of castle-ready sand that doesn't seem to invade swimsuits and swim diapers as much as the fluffy white dunes found at the Gulf. And while many of the beaches on Jekyll Island are sure to please, don't pass up a chance to take the littles to Driftwood Beach.

Eat
While the island's developed space is limited, there are still plenty of dining options for families. Playground-side pizza at Red Bug Motors Pizza is served up hot and al fresco, Zachary's River House overlooks the Jekyll River, and Tortuga Jacks dishes solid Mexican food and live music nightly. Additional options can be found at the newly developed Beach Village (The Jekyll Market—complete with a deli, bbq and ice cream options—Fuse Frozen Yogurt, and the Jekyll Island Seafood Company, to name a few) and in the historic district.

Stay
Stay at the Jekyll Island Club Resort the recently revitalized historic resort, for an experience that is as family-friendly as it is charming. Or, stay beachside at the new Westin Jekyll Island, perfectly situated between the beach and the market (with really stellar ice cream).

Find out more: tinybeans.go-vip.net

Asheville, NC

Play
Asheville’s 8 million acres of backyard offers the perfect blend of urban adventure and outdoor exploration for an unforgettable family vacation. For adventurous outdoor activities, The Adventure Center of Asheville is 5 minutes from downtown, where you can enjoy expansive views of the Asheville skyline from Asheville Zipline Canopy Adventures or hop on one of the top-end mountain bikes and learn the meaning of “flow” on an on-site trail system created and groomed for the KOLO Bike Park. Or head up into the trees at KidZip, America’s first zipline adventure designed for kids under 10.

Every Friday night in the rounded outdoor amphitheater of downtown's Pritchard Park people join together to play thundering sounds on drums, dance to the powerful rhythms, or just sit back and enjoy the show of individuality and diverse community. The Drum Circle is a free event, and anybody is welcome to join in the music by bringing their own drum.

At the Asheville Pinball Museum, pay a flat fee to play as much as you like from the collection of about 35 pinball machines. Some are even original games from the 1940s.

Tour
At Asheville Adventure Co., you can take a guided scenic float on the French Broad or a heart racing paddle down the scenic and thrilling Green River. For a glimpse at the opulence of the gilded age, spend an entire day at the Biltmore Estate to take advantage of the gardens, as well as take the house tour. There’s a farm, children’s maze, trails, horseback riding, a playground, and lots more family-friendly activities.

Eat
Stop for a snack just so you can eat in a real London double-decker bus at Double D’s Coffee and Dessert. Enjoy a cold one while kids romp in the beer garden, explore Millers Estate Garden, and jam to live music at Sierra Nevada Brewery.

Stay
The Omni Grove Park Inn has luxury accommodations, a subterranean spa, and a laid-back, welcoming atmosphere. There is a Hampton Inn & Suites only a half-mile from Biltmore Village and Biltmore Estate. Downtown Asheville is 10 minutes away.

— Shelley Massey

Feature photo: iStock

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Peachy-Keen: 3 Perfect Days in Atlanta with Kids

by Tinybeans Team
Partner Content

If you’ve got three days to play, Atlanta’s packed to the brim with options for filling them with fun. Whether you’re going for its world-class museums, parks, events, great weather, easy-to-access nature or unique attractions, Atlanta is a family destination worth adding to your bucket list. Keep reading for how we recommend taking a bite out of the Big Peach.

Day 1: Downtown to Ponce

Photo: Lee Coursey via Flickr

Morning: Kick off your stay in the ATL downtown, where you can't throw a stone without hitting a museum or attraction worthy of an entire day of your trip. With the Children's Museum of Atlanta, the Georgia Aquarium, the World of Coca-Cola, the College Football Hall of Fame, and the SkyView Ferris Wheel (all oriented around Centennial Olympic Park, which is home to a spray fountain set to music, as well as a playground and lots of green space), you'll want to tie on your tennis shoes and pound some pavement.

Afternoon: While you can pick up lunch in the Aquarium's cafe, or at Googie Burger in Centennial Olympic Park, we recommend heading east out of downtown to Ponce City Market—Atlanta's newest urban re-development that packs a 1-2 punch with gourmet food stalls, as well as access to the Eastside BeltLine. Keep heading east on Ponce until you reach Fernbank Museum of Natural History, where you can chill out in the giant theatre, explore the dinosaurs, or run through Wildwoods, Fernbank's newest outdoor exploration-scape.

Insider Tip: Plan to visit the Aquarium first, because there's nothing quite like starting your day with the manta rays and belugas (plus, it gets a lot of visitors throughout the year, and afternoons are always hopping).

Don't Forget: Centennial Olympic Park and the entire downtown area around it was designed with pedestrians in mind. All of the attractions downtown have plenty of stroller parking inside, and you can cut through the park—instead of walk along the busier roads at its perimeter—making it a piece of cake to navigate from destination to destination.

Holiday Happenings: Centennial Olympic Park is home to one of Atlanta's favorite outdoor ice skating rinks during the holidays, and with thousands of twinkling lights decorating light poles and tree branches, it's one of the best places in the city to get in the holiday spirit.

Stay: We recommend a stay at one of the many Marriott hotels in Atlanta proper. We love their upscale feel at a family budget friendly price and lots of little perks to make families feel at home.

Day 2: Midtown to Buckhead

Photo: S. Massey

Morning: Start your second day in Atlanta at Piedmont Park, where you'll find fresh produce, local goods, and weekly entertainment. Be sure to hit the Noguchi Playscape near 10th and Piedmont—a playground designed by one of the 20th Century's most prominent sculptors—and the Legacy Fountain splash pad, features more than 70 jets, reaching up to 30 feet in the air with LED-lighting (count on days often as late as December to be warm enough to take off your shoes and enjoy the water). Then, head to the adjacent Atlanta Botanical Garden for lunch (kid-friendly cafes are scattered throughout) and a visit to the newly renovated Children's Garden.

Afternoon: Take a short walk (or drive) through one of Atlanta's most historic neighborhoods—Ansley Park—to reach the Center for Puppetry Arts and the Worlds of Puppetry Museum. After catching a performance, head upstairs to make your own puppets (supplies are provided and are part of your ticket fee). Afterward, head north on Peachtree Street to Buckhead, where you'll find the Atlanta History Center and Smith Family Farm to explore, before capping off your day with a trip to LEGOLAND Discovery Center in Phipps Mall.

Insider Tip: If you're in the mood for some true Atlanta flavor, take a detour to The Varsity, an iconic drive-in near 10th and Spring St., where you'd better be ready to answer "What'll ya have?"

Don't Forget: Both the Legacy Fountain and the Children's Garden have splash pad features (the Children's Garden's shuts down during winter months), so be sure to pack a change of clothes for the kiddos!

Holiday Happenings: Atlanta Botanical's Garden Lights, Holiday Nights display is unrivaled in the southeast. If you're in town between November and January, don't miss an opportunity to walk through the magic they create (and grab a s'mores kit, an adult beverage, or hot chocolate, while you're at it). Or, for an even more quirky Atlanta experience, head to Lenox Plaza for a ride on The Pink Pig—open during the holiday season, only.

Tired yet? Head back to the Marriott for some chillaxing (and comfy beds!).

Day 3: Perimeter

Photo: Atlanta Braves via Facebook

Morning: What Atlanta's northern perimeter between I-75 and I-85 may lack in museums, it makes up for in sporting venues and outdoor adventures. Start your day at the 110-acre Brook Run Park, which has a large playground, 2-mile trail, skate park, dog park, community garden, and a self-guided zip line course, called Treetop Quest. After coming down from the trees, head to the river for a hike to the Chattahoochee River—only minutes from the bustle of the city but as serene as any you'd find in the countryside.

Afternoon: With plenty of fresh air under your belt, head to The Battery Atlanta at Truist Park, the new home of the Atlanta Braves. Whether it's baseball season or not, The Battery offers an excellent selection of family friendly dining options, a splash pad, and pedestrian-friendly storefronts to explore. If you're visiting during a home game, be sure and grab tickets, because the inside of the Stadium is perfect for traveling fams and locals alike.There's a kids zone complete with zip line, a climbing wall, carnival games and 11 (yes, that's right, 11) family restrooms!

Insider Tip: Regardless the time of year, the Chattahoochee River's waters are cold. Pack a towel, just in case you have any adventurers who might find the icy waters too hard to resist.

Don't Forget: Or actually, it's okay if you do forget ... your baseball glove. Inside the stadium, you'll find a one-of-a-kind Mizuno Glove Experience that allows fans of all ages to check out a baseball glove free of charge to catch foul balls and home runs during the game.

Holiday Happenings: The Battery gets in the spirit each holiday season, and you can count on lights, an outdoor ice-skating rink, and concerts.

Depart: Check out of your Marriott hotel and say goodbye to this big city full of family fun and southern charm.

With Marriott Bonvoy™, members can enjoy special rates, free in-room Wifi, mobile check-in and the ability to earn and redeem points at Marriott’s thousands of hotels. Not a Marriott Bonvoy member? Join for free when you book! Save on your trip to Atlanta here!

—Shelley Massey

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The Best Story Times in Portland

by Katrina Emery

When you’ve exhausted your bookshelves and your voice is hoarse from that one silly voice you do, it’s time to call in some backup. Find a story time for every day of the week around town–full of even sillier voices, new characters, nature, learning, and friends. You’ll discover new bookshops, outdoor trails, your local library, and maybe even a new favorite toy store at these various story times. Best of all, you can take a break and let someone else take over for a change. Read on for more!

photo: by katrina emery

Maggie Mae’s

Maggie Mae’s Kids Bookshop started out as a mobile bookshop offering new and gently used kids’ books at an affordable price. Their permanent location in downtown Gresham opened to much fanfare in 2018 where they offer a fabulous collection of even MORE new and gently used books of all kinds. Stop by for story times on Wednesdays and Saturdays at 10:30 a.m..

43 NW 3rd St.
Gresham, Or
503-512-7493
Online: maggiemaesbooks.com

Tryon Creek Story and Stroll

Though the Tryon Creek Nature Center is undergoing construction this year, their popular Story and Stroll program is still going! The program weaves together stories of nature, with movement and outdoor exploration. Gather to read about a topic like owls or newts, then head out to the woods to see what you can find! The stories are geared toward ages 2-6. Find the story times at 11 a.m. on Thursdays and Fridays–they’re popular, so get there at least 30 minutes early.

11321 SW Terwilliger Blvd.
Portland, Or
503-636-4398
Online: tryonfriends.org

photo: Green Bean Books

Green Bean Books

Green Bean Books is a little nook of perfect book space on Alberta Street–their selections are top notch, and they always have something fun going on like author signings. Story times are always free and are sprinkled throughout the week: find them on Tuesday at 11 a.m., Thursday at 3:30 p.m. and Sunday at 11 a.m., or try their musical story time on Monday at 11 a.m. The littlest crew has their own special baby story time on Fridays at 10:30 a.m. Special events like visits from illustrators happen very regularly, so check online–or be surprised!

1600 NE Alberta St.
Portland, Or
503-954-2354
Online: greenbeanbookspdx.com

Multnomah County Library

The library system across Portland has more than a dozen locations, and they all host fantastic story times. These are the best places for bi or trilingual babies, Cantonese, Mandarin, Vietnamese and Spanish stories. You’ll also find story times for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, families, and story times for kids interested in STEAM, sensory play, or even pajamas. The events are all throughout the week and vary by location, so head to the the website for an overview of them all.

Online: multcolib.org/events/storytimes

photo: Made You Look

Made You Look

They’ve got toys. They’ve got a tunnel. They’ve got a coin operated flying airplane. And they even have story time! Made You Look has a well-curated selection of toys for all ages, from the littlest to the biggest kids. The handful of books they carry are carefully chosen and focus on friendship, community, diversity, and leadership–just like their story time. Meeting every other Thursday, each inspiring story comes with a craft to do with new friends. Follow their instagram or check their website to keep in touch with their latest events!

2418 E. Burnside St.
Portland, Or
503-719-7906
Online: madeyoulookpdx.com

Spanish Story Time with Portland Early Learning Project

A great Spanish-focused story time, the Portland Early Learning Project rotates locations around the city for their interactive events. They get the kiddos moving with music, dance moves, stories, and more in an encouraging Spanish environment—it’s a great introduction to a new language, or a perfect way to keep practicing! Check online for the latest time location–they offer them one to two times a month.

503-284-0610
Online: portlandearlylearning.com

photo: futurestreet via flickr

Powell’s Books

It’s the mothership of Portland’s bookstores, and it’s got one of the best selection of kid’s books around. It makes sense, then, that story time at the massive Powell’s City of Books is also fantastic! Head downtown at 11 a.m. on Saturday mornings and find a spot in the Rose Room’s children books for a new story every week.

1005 W. Burnside St.
Portland, Or
503-228-4651
Online: powells.com

Story Time with Olive and Dingo

Olive and Dingo know how to have fun. These two clowns (really, they’re clowns) put on hit shows for kids all throughout the year, most regularly at their story times. They’ve got a story showtime every Tuesday through Friday each week at various locations around the city– most are at 10:30 a.m., with a later show on Wednesdays at 4 p.m. Kids will enjoy the jokes, music, clowning around, stories, and even balloons! Each event is drop-in with a suggested donation of $5 to keep the fun going. Check up on their regular shows and special events on their website.

Online: oliveanddingo.com

—Katrina Emery

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