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

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

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

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

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

4. Create a stained-glass art window.

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

6. Make a time capsule.

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

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

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

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

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

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

indoor activities for kids
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13. Create a rad rhino mask.

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

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

16. Channel Ariel and make your own mermaid tail.

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

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

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

indoor activities for kids
Pink Stripey Socks

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

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

22. Bend water with a comb.

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

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

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

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

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

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

29. Make your own harmonica with only four supplies.

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

31. Use old toilet paper rolls to make binoculars.

32. Fashion jewelry out of food.

indoor activities for kids
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33. All you need is 30 minutes to make your own dolphin.

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

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

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

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

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

indoor activities for kids
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39. Make an easy color wheel.

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

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

42. Read a book or 100.

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

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

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

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

47. Paint with popsicles.

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

49. Go beyond Monopoly with new family games.

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

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

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

60. Write your own comic book.

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

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

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

64. Shake up free time with a subscription box.

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

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

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

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

69. Paint like Van Gogh.

70. Make edible art that the kids can eat.

71. Transform empty bottles into a scuba tank.

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

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

74. Lounge in style with a homemade hammock.

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

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76. Make your own bubbles.

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

78. Cast a spell with a pretend potion.

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

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

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

82. Craft your very own shooting star.

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

indoor activities for kids
Aditya Chinchuren via Unsplash

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

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

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

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

88. Fold an origami teddy bear.

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

90. Create your own puppet theater.

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91. Make the kids LOL with 300+ hilarious jokes.

92. Practice counting with these clever hacks.

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

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

95. Learn how to make shadow puppets.

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

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

 

indoor activities for kids
Gabby Cullen

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

99. Make your own I Spy Jar.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Wait until you see the “Peter Pan” family costume!

If you start now, it’s easy to coordinate an awesome family Halloween costume that will earn you tons of compliments from fellow trick-or-treaters. From Scooby-Do-themed get-ups to Star Wars family costumes, there are plenty of great ways to dress up your brood this year. For parents who prefer to be a bit more behind-the-scenes, we’ve also got the most popular Halloween costumes for kids in 2022, baby Halloween costumes you can DIY with a onesie, and cardboard box Halloween costumes (because what else were you going to do with those Amazon boxes?)

Click here and save all these family costumes to Pinterest.

Movie Theater Snack Costume

If there’s anything we can agree on, it’s that going to the movies hits differently when snacks are involved. This fun family costume takes everyone’s favorite movie theater snacks to the next level.

Mary Poppins Family Halloween Costume

This fun family costume idea could go so many ways. You could have chimney sweeps, more penguins, the Banks children, and more!

Scooby Do Family Costume

How adorable is this family costume idea? Be sure to save your big Amazon box to make your own Mystery Machine.

Cruella Family Halloween Costume

While we wait for the sequel, how about this fabulous take on one of Disney’s most iconic villains?

Related: 7 Costume Ideas That Are Based on Book Characters 

Hocus Pocus Family Halloween Costume

With the sequel coming out at the end of Sept., we have a feeling there’ll be a lot of Sanderson Sister action this year.

Greek Gods and Goddesses Costume

We are blinded by the fabulousness of this costume idea from Tell Love and Party.

Pot of Gold Costume

Good as gold! We give the green light to the striped stockings and big green hats that make these lucky little ones ready for trick-or-treating. Create a rainbow and add gold coins to a shirt, and you’ve got an adorable leprechaun family Halloween costume idea.

’80s-Themed Costume

When it comes to Halloween when in doubt, go all ’80s.

Star Wars Family Halloween Costume

The trick to this Star Wars-themed family costume is Queen Amidala‘s makeup. The rest is easily found on Amazon, like this Princess Leia, this Luke Skywalker, and this Darth Vader costume.

Related: 17 Incredibly Clever Cardboard Box Costumes 

Harry Potter Family Costume

https://www.instagram.com/p/Ba8OFJTFdvH/?hidecaption=true

If you have a little muggle in the house, then a family Harry Potter costume theme makes for the perfect fit!

Baby Shark Family Halloween Costume

We love DIY costumes and give a wave of approval for this adorable shark family. You and your herd of fish will be sure to see grins on fellow trick-or-treaters.

Big Bad Wolf and the 3 Little Pigs Costume

Are any of you parents of multiples? This fabulous take on the classic children’s story is a genius idea for Halloween.

Where’s Waldo Family Costume

Where's Waldo family Halloween costume
Say Yes

The search is over! We spotted this ultra-coordinated family costume over at Say Yes. It's easy to pull together from items likely already in your closet.

Peter Pan and the Lost Boys Costume

Peter Pan family Halloween costume
A Beautiful Mess

We're clapping our hands for these whimsical costumes featuring Peter Pan and his Lost Boys. Grab a little pixie dust and fly over to A Beautiful Mess for a closer look at the costumes. It's easy to re-create if you just believe! You can even make your pixie dust by clicking here.

Family Weather Costume

Studio DIY

We love the idea of your kid being the rainbow in between the sunshine and rain! Find out how to make your own version over at Studio DIY

Wreck-It-Ralph Family Costume

Wreck-it-Ralph Family halloween costume
See Vanessa Craft

How cute is this Wreck-It-Ralph group costume idea? We love how a lot of these costumes might be laying around your house. Head over to See Vanessa Craft for the tutorials for each costume. 

Labyrinth Family Costume

Brit Co

Fulfill all your Goblin King dreams with this awesome family costume. Sarah, Jareth, and baby Toby complete this perfect trio of a costume. Find out how it's done over at Brit + Co

Monster Family Halloween Costume

Tell Love and Party

Few things say Halloween more than Creatures of the Night. You'll find all the how-tos and close-ups of the spooktacular makeup at Tell Love and Party featuring Frankenstein, his bride, a mini mummy, and a baby bat.

The Sandlot Family Costume

Chris Loves Julia

The family behind Chris Loves Julia took this awesome film-themed photo for the invitation to their annual costume bash. A flashback to a favorite childhood movie, the kids may not be familiar with The Sandlot, but they'll love the fun summery costumes.

 

A League of Their Own Group Costume

A League of Their Own Family Halloween Costume
Pretty Plain Janes

Complete with a ballpark candy vendor, the family behind Pretty Plain Janes hit a home run with this movie-themed group costume.  

 

 

 

 

You can stash a lot of candy back there

You’ve landed on your pumpkin carving design, bookmarked the easy Halloween treats you’ll whip up, and stocked the kids’ shelves with the appropriate Halloween books. All that’s left is deciding if you’re doing a Trunk or Treat instead of going door to door this year. If you do opt to go the Trunk or Treat route, you’re going to want to stand out with one of the best themes around. Whether you’ve got time to be crafty or you’re scrambling to decorate your car at the last minute, we’ve got the best trunk-or-treat ideas from super simple to frightfully fantastic. Feeling extra inspired? Entertain your pint-sized visitors with some cackle-inducing Halloween jokes and kid-friendly ghost stories.

Click here and save this list for years to come on Pinterest.

Willy Wonka’s Factory

Nobody knows candy like Willy Wonka, and with the new prequel about the candymaker’s life coming out this year, this Golden Ticket-themed trunk-or-treat is perfect for a sweet set up.

It’s the Great Pumpkin, Charlie Brown Trunk-or-Treat

Peanuts for peanuts! This trunk-or-treat idea uses dollar store props and well-crafted cutouts to create a low-budget Halloween scene—Linus sitting in wait for the Great Pumpkin. This clever Charlie Brown comic strip scene used plastic pumpkins, burlap to line the trunk, some fall fabric placemats and faux leaves plus a poster board Linus and a welcome sign. Head to Lynlee’s for all the details.

Disney-Themed Trunk-or-Treat Idea

Everyone loves Disney-themed trunk-or-treat ideas! This fun Peter Pan version has us looking for our pixie dust.

Happy Camper

If you like to camp, then this trunk-or-treat idea will be a breeze to set up. The bonfire is especially cute!

Dead of the Dead

Day of the Dead trunk-or-treat ideas
Deonna Wade

How colorful is this Day of the Dead trunk-or-treat theme? With a few paper garlands, blankets, pumpkins, and a sugar skull or two, you can easily pull this off. Get all the details over at Deonna Wade

Party City Trunk-or-Treat Kits

Nightmare Before Christmas trunk or treat idea from party city
Party City

If you want to go big but want to find all the supplies in one spot, check out Party City's Themed Trunk or Treat Kits. You'll find The Nightmare Before Christmas, Super Mario Bros., and classic Halloween kits, and they all include balloons, serving bowls, streamers, and more!

Related: DIY Halloween Decorations to Deck Your Haunted Halls

Practically Perfect in Every Way

trunk-or-treat ideas
An Alli Event

We love this detailed Mary Poppins trunk-or-treat idea, spotted over at An Alli Event. The faux fireplace adds the perfect chimney sweep touch, and with costumes like these and a few props, you too will be ready for any event. A spoonful of sugar optional!

Harry Potter Trunk or Treat Theme

Harry Potter is always a favorite trunk-or-treat theme, and this incredible set up will inspire you for your own this Halloween. If your kids are fans, borrow all their dress-up accessories and then collect other tidbits to make a magical setting.

Gumball Machine

An Alli Event

This DIY gumball machine trunk or treat idea is one we can chew on. We love that it coordinates with an easy apron costume and that it doesn't take much more than fabric, paper, and puff balls. Take a closer look here.

Spooky Graveyard

a graveyard is an easy trunk or treat idea
Gabby Cullen

If you love Halloween decorations, just use what you already own to create a spooky graveyard! Tombstones, giant spiders, candles, skulls, and cobwebs. Go bigger with a full skeleton or a fog machine. 

Related: 53 Halloween Jokes for Kids That Are More Silly Than Scary

Minions

trunk-or-treat ideas
An Alli Event

Here's one of those easy trunk-or-treat ideas that will pop! Fill the car with yellow helium balloons accessorized as minions, and you'll be all set with a despicable display. You could also use blue balloons for an aquatic bubbly underwater scene or multicolored ones as gumballs.

Bat Cave

trunk-or-treat ideas
Tikiddo

A cave is the perfect Halloween backdrop whether you're a monster, ghoul, or bat. The stalagmites and stalactites for this bat cavern are made from styrofoam attached to the open trunk with paper bats hung on a string or attached with toothpicks into the foam. Head to Tikkido for the details.

Cookie Monster

For the Love of Felt

A great Cookie Monster trunk-or-treat theme just requires the right color blue. This version from Love of Felt uses a wooden frame, a black fabric mouth, brown felt cookies, and poster board eyes. You can also have the open trunk as the mouth, blue fabric stretched in place, styrofoam balls for eyes, and cookies made out of cardboard.

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

All the products listed are independently & personally selected by our editors.

If you buy something from the links in this article, we may earn affiliate commission or compensation. Prices and availability reflect the time of publication.

All images courtesy of retailers.

From on-property hotels that offer loads of perks to budget-friendly accommodations where you can see the Disneyland fireworks, this list has it all

If you’re planning a trip to the Happiest Place on Earth (the SoCal edition), you’re probably wondering where you’re going to go after the fireworks end. And unless you’re a local, that probably means staying at a hotel. But how do you choose a place when the options are as bountiful as the bevy of balloons for sale on Disneyland’s Main Street? We’re here to help! Whether you want a plush hotel inside the Disney bubble or a vacation rental with its own private playground, here are our picks for the best hotels and Airbnbs near Disneyland.

On-Property Disneyland Hotels

Joshua Sudock/Disneyland Resort

Staying at a Disneyland Resort hotel is definitely more expensive than choosing nearby accommodations, but for those who like to keep the Disney vibe going after closing time, it’s a must-do. Perks of staying on-site include early access to the parks (guests are allowed in 30 minutes before scheduled opening time), delivery of purchases to your room; special entrances; and opportunities to see Disney characters up close and personal (characters may saunter through the lobby or into the breakfast rooms). These are your choices, from most to least expensive:

Related: Here’s How to Save on a Disney Trip This Year

Disney’s Grand Californian

Cost: $600 to $1,000 per night

Capturing the spirit of early California, Disney’s award-winning Grand Californian Hotel & Spa is the most luxurious of the on-site properties. The first hotel to be built inside a Disney park (it’s actually a part of California Adventure), the GC is the flagship hotel of the Disneyland Resort, with 948 guest rooms and 71 Disney Vacation Club Villas. The sprawling hotel has an upscale lodge sort of feel, with dark wood touches and elegant odes to Monterey pines and redwood forests. There are also three (!) swimming pools and five dining locations, including Storytellers Café, Hearthstone Lounge, GCH Craftsman Bar & Grill, and the award-winning Napa Rose restaurant.

Worth Mentioning: Guests of the hotel have a private entrance into California Adventure, which lets them bypass long lines at the main entrance.

Online: Disneyland.disney.go.com

Disneyland Hotel

Cost: $500 to $800 per night

Scott Brinegar/Disneyland

Filled with old-time nostalgia that would make Walt proud, this 973-room hotel (the first one to be built at the park) offers three distinct towers to choose from—the Adventure, Fantasy, and Frontier Towers—each an homage to the park’s original lands. The landmark hotel has two pools and two water slides as well as memorable dining options including Goofy’s Kitchen, Tangaroa Terrace, Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar, and the award-winning Steakhouse 55.

Worth Mentioning: If you stay in the Fantasy Tower, keep an eye out for touches of pixie dust and “hidden” Mickeys lurking inside the hotel’s mid-century modern decor. In all guest rooms, the headboards light up with fireworks and play “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes.”

Note: Families looking for a home away from home might want to check out the soon-to-debut Villas at Disneyland Hotel, which will offer studios with kitchenettes, washers and dryers, and private bedrooms. The villas are scheduled to open in Fall 2023. 

Online: Disneyland.disney.go.com

Paradise Pier Hotel

Cost: $350 to $600 per night

Disneyland Resort

Disneyland’s least expensive (but still pricy) on-site hotel, Paradise Pier, offers a more basic experience than its ritzier cousins—but if you want to stay inside the Disney bubble, it fits the bill. The 481-room high rise has a SoCal “day at the beach” theme, and littles will love the sizable pool and a twisty waterslide. For dining, guests may enjoy the whimsical PCH Grill restaurant, with quick bites and refreshments also available in the lobby’s Surfside Lounge or at the poolside Sand Bar.

Note: Travelers should know that the hotel is currently under construction, so there may be expected closures and construction noise.

Worth Mentioning: Despite being an “on-property” hotel, Paradise Pier isn’t actually next to Disneyland; it’s a half-mile walk to the park’s front gates or a 5-minute walk to Downtown Disney, (where you can hop on the monorail to get to Disneyland Park).

Online: Disneyland.disney.go.com/hotels/paradise-pier-hotel

Off-Site Hotels near Disneyland  

Hoping to save a few bucks and don’t mind leaving the Disney bubble for the evening (note: this may be a good thing)?  There are plenty of choices for fun, quality off-site lodging. Looking for a water park? Check! Hoping for a view of the fireworks? OK? Want a themed hotel? Sure! Here are your best bets:

Best Themed Hotel (that’s not part of Disneyland): Anaheim Majestic Garden

Cost: $100-400 per night

Anaheim Majestic Garden

By the looks of the iconic castle turrets and the beautiful costumed princess who roams the halls, you’d think this place was a part of Mickey’s realm. On the contrary, this budget-friendly hotel just down the street from Disneyland offers enough magic for the littles without emptying your wallet (which means you can buy more at the park the next day!). The Medieval-themed hotel is sprawled over 13 acres that include three courtyards, a rose garden, an outdoor pool, and a koi pond. The rooms are spacious, with a royal theme that includes princess headboards and, in higher-class rooms, castle bunk beds.

Kids too pooped to stay at Disney until closing?  The Disneyland fireworks can be viewed from several locations around the hotel, including the front entry and the pool area. When you’re ready to hit the park in the morning, the hotel has a free shuttle to whisk you the two minutes to the Downtown Disney shuttle stop.

Worth Mentioning: The hotel’s resident Princess Corinne is available for in-room bedtime stories or breakfast wakeup calls Fridays through Sundays. These visits include the princess and her royal page arriving with either a silver service of milk and a special sweet treat for bedtime, or juice and a sweet treat for breakfast. The visit includes a story, an autographed photo of the princess, crowns for each child, and a signed and dated “Royal Certificate of Visit” (The visit costs $75 for 1 to 2 children and $10 per additional child.).

Online: Majesticgardenhotel.com

Best Hotel with a Waterpark: Courtyard Marriot Theme Park Entrance

Cost: $400-$600 per night

marriott.com

Located a short walk from the park’s front gates, this hotel features a sprawling water park that’ll make your kids be all, “Disney-what?” (at least for a few hours). That, and its family-centric amenities—including large rooms (some with bunk beds!) shuttle to the park, and a poolside view of the nightly fireworks—make a stay well worth leaving Disney grounds.  If you can spring for the one-bedroom, bunk bed suite, you’ll have a two-bedroom apartment, with two bunk beds in one room, a spacious bedroom in another, and a kitchen-ish area with a microwave and mini fridge.

Worth mentioning: If your kids want to use the water park, be sure to make a (required) reservation! Guests are allowed three time slots per day.

Online: Marriott.com

Best Bang for Your Buck – Cambria Hotel & Suites

Cost: $300-$400 per night

Cambria Hotels

Featuring a 30,000-square-foot waterpark, this hotel opened in 2020 and offers large, clean rooms, entertainment for kids, and a free hot breakfast. It’s a bit further from the park entrance (about a mile), so we recommend taking Anaheim Resort Transit (ART), which has a stop in front of the hotel. When you’re not at the park, kids will be happy to spend the day zipping down the slides or the evenings watching a movie on the wall by the pool. As for the rooms, they are all spacious, with family suites featuring bunk beds, a kitchenette, separate living and sleeping spaces, and two separate showers (plus a bathtub).

Worth mentioning: Kids must be at least 44 inches to ride the water slides (and there is a small baby pool for little swimmers).

Online: Cambriasuitesanaheim.com

Best for Littles – Howard Johnson Hotel and Water Park

Cost: $160-$300 per night

Howard Johnson Hotels

If you’re a Disney regular, you’ve probably seen the whirly tube slides of this popular hotel from the monorail, since it sits just on the other side of the fence from the Tomorrowland station.  Not surprisingly, Castaway Cove, the hotel’s pirate-themed water park, is the big draw here. The toddler-centric water park offers an assortment of water play features, a 200-gallon drench bucket, and a large curved slide. As for the hotel, which was originally built in 1965 (and which has been updated numerous times since then), it is simple but clean, with cheery rooms that are well-appointed, colorful, and spacious.

Note: Large families will want to opt for the deluxe rooms or suites, which offer bunk beds or “Kid Suites” so that parents can have a bed to themselves.

Worth mentioning: All Castaway Cove water features are shallow enough for non-swimmers to enjoy, so the water park is a thrill for even the youngest of guests. (That said, it’s definitely geared more toward younger kids than older, adrenaline junkies.

Online: Hojoanaheim.com

Closest Walk To Disneyland – Best Western Park Place Inn

Cost: $329-$359

Best Western

If you’re looking to stay as close as you can to Disneyland while still reaping the cost benefits of staying off-site, this reliable no-frills hotel is just a stone’s throw from Mickey’s realm. Located across the street from the park entrance, all you have to do is wait for the light to turn green and walk 60 seconds to be in Disneyland territory (according to Disney Tourist Blog, it’s a 10-minute walk from the hotel to the turnstile). As for the rooms, don’t expect high-end perks—this is a “budget” hotel, after all—but the rooms are clean and newly renovated, and the breakfast is free. Enough said.

Worth mentioning: If you’ve got cranky kids and don’t want to wait to see the fireworks from inside the park, this hotel’s proximity to Main Street makes it a worthy viewing spot for nightly displays. Book a room facing the street and you’ll even be able to pop over to the window and see the sparkles without even going outside. Otherwise, standing just in front of the hotel works fine, too.

Online: Bestwestern.com

Best Hotel With a View – The Westin

Cost: $250-$350 per night

Marriott.com

An upscale hotel that opened in 2021, this large modern hotel is a great choice if you’re looking for a more elegant style without compromising on location. Located right next to Disney’s California Adventure, the 618-room hotel is a peaceful respite from the theme park hubbub, with a grown-up vibe that’s markedly absent of toddler-filled splash pads and buzzing arcades (good news for some; not for others). The hotel also offers several upscale dining options, including a Mexican restaurant, a steakhouse, and a gorgeous rooftop lounge with a sprawling view of California Adventure and the SoCal mountains in the distance (you can see the Disney fireworks from here, too!).

Worth mentioning: Even though Pixar Pier is just across the street, you still have to walk all the way around the park to get to the entrance to either California Adventure or Disneyland Park. It’s a 15 to 20-minute walk that can be hard for little legs—so bring a stroller and get ready to crush your daily steps goal.

Online: Marriott.com

Best Airbnb –  This Disneyland Dream Home – Orange, CA

Cost: $400-$700 per night (varies by season)

Airbnb

Whether or not you’re within walking distance of the park won’t matter when you step foot inside this amazing Disney-themed home that recreates the spirit of the park throughout its whimsical interior. Each of the home’s four bedrooms embodies a different part of Disneyland: There’s a vintage Mickey room (above) that will make you feel like you’ve stepped foot into a black-and-white cartoon; a “Frontierland” room that feels like a woodsy cabin, with a real, working train that chugs in and out of the room on a track by the ceiling; an “Indiana Jones” room, with genie lamps perched on shelves and old maps clinging to the wall; and an “It’s a Small World” room that has the iconic Small World facade painted on one wall and odes to the ride scattered throughout (it also has two bunk beds and a trundle so the room can fit a small world of its own!). There’s also an arcade and theater room that will keep the kids busy for hours.

Worth mentioning: Disneyland may have to wait once your kids see the backyard, which is a tiny park unto itself, with a mini golf course, a ping pong table, swings, a climbing structure, several playhouses, and a plethora of lawn games.

Online: Airbnb.com

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Peter Pan warned us all as children: “Once you’re grown-up you can never come back. Never.”

While Peter may have been referencing Never Land, the magical island where kids stay young forever, we can now recognize the underlying implications of adulthood. As soon as we outgrew our playful and carefree years, we’d become practical grown ups that couldn’t dare leave time for lighthearted fun.

The truth of the matter is, our inner child—that happy, silly, awe-struck little boy or girl—is still deep within us and ready to step out from the shadows of adult life. They’re yearning to explore the world again with wondrous eyes, rather than being bogged down with work, household chores and bills.

Our younger selves want to be like Peter, and with Disney’s upcoming live-action reimagining of the boy who wouldn’t grow up, you can remember how.

The Disney+ Original movie, Peter Pan & Wendy, follows J.M. Barrie’s beloved novel and the 1953 animated classic film. Starring Jude Law as Captain Hook, Alexander Molong as Peter Pan, Ever Anderson as Wendy Darling, Yara Shahidi as Tinkerbell, and Jim Gaffigan as Smee, the movie will take your family on a nostalgic yet thrilling new journey to Never Land.

On April 28, stream Peter Pan & Wendy on Disney+ for a fresh, expanded storyline, reimagined characters and a much-needed reminder to be a kid once more. Here are six ways the new film can help you reconnect and release the child inside you.

Captain Hook's ship in the new Peter Pan & Wendy

1. Think Happy Thoughts

While thinking of the happiest things won’t actually make you fly like Peter promised, it can boost your mood and give you a more uplifting outlook on the world. Science also agrees.

A recent study found that mindfulness and positive thinking can reduce anxiety, provide an increased sense of purpose and help people live a happier and more fulfilled life. So when you’re feeling down or overwhelmed, focus on the memories that bring you joy.

2. Believe in the Magic of Pixie Dust

Although we may not have an in-house Tinker Bell that can help us fly around to rid our problems, we just need to remind ourselves that “All it takes is faith, trust, and a little pixie dust.” Simply put, we should spend more time trusting that situations can work out in our favor.

By once again believing that anything is possible, we can tap into the limitless perception we once held as children. We’ll start to feel that what we want and are striving for is attainable and within our reach. When in doubt, tell yourself that you can do anything you set your mind to.

3. Live Carefree

Peter Pan perfectly embodies the carefree innocence of childhood. Every day in Never Land, he does what he wants, when he wants without worry—whether that’s sword fighting with Captain Hook, listening to stories or playing with the Lost Boys. As adults, we experience quite the opposite; we’re easily stricken with concern and get caught up in the stressors of life, especially as we raise children of our own.

From time to time, it’s important to remind yourself to live in the happy moments and not take life too seriously. We’re all allowed to have days filled with fun, laughter and play, just like when we were kids.

Tigerlily from Peter Pan & Wendy

4. Embrace Your Sense of Adventure

Adventure is Peter Pan’s middle name. From venturing through mermaid lagoon and the Indian encampment to crocodile creek, Peter explored every inch of Never Land. As we get older and have a family, it’s easy to find reasons as to why we can’t explore someplace new—work schedules, after-school activities, play dates, the list goes on.

Instead, step outside of your regimented schedules and carve out time for traveling and visiting new destinations. Plan a weekend road trip with your kids to a city you’ve never been to before or make plans to check out a new venue that opened up in town. In the end, you’ll feel energized and ready to find your next adventure.

5. Let Your Imagination Run Wild

For Wendy’s father, Mr. Darling, pirates, mermaids and ticking crocodiles were nothing but silly stories, but to Wendy and her brothers, these tales allowed them to feel excited and create an imaginary realm of their own.

When you rekindle your own imagination, you can start to see the world through rose-colored glasses and break free from self-inflicted limits. Spend a few hours playing make-believe with your little ones or set aside time for daydreaming. You just might open yourself up to some well-needed inspiration.


6. Be Open to Trying Something New

Think back to your childhood and how exhilarating it felt when you accomplished something new, whether it was learning to ride a bike or helping your mom prepare dinner in the kitchen. Embrace that same openness to learn as an adult by picking up a new hobby or trying an activity outside of your comfort zone.

Looking to be more adventurous? Go on a ziplining excursion. Looking to be more creative? Take a pottery class. Keep an open mind and continuously challenge yourself by trying something you normally wouldn’t do.

 

Sign up for Disney+ to stream Peter Pan & Wendy on April 28. You must be 18 years of age or older to subscribe. Additional terms apply. To learn more, visit disneyplus.com.

If you’re short on time but have a party to plan, these mobile party businesses are a fantastic way to get the celebration going at your house

Sure, hosting a kid’s birthday party can be a rewarding and entertaining endeavor but planning it can also eat up a lot of your time. We’ll make it a piece of cake for you with our scoop on mobile party businesses that deliver the fun right to your doorstep. Your little party animal is sure to love these mobile birthday parties, and the convenience factor can’t be beat. From science entertainers to a brick builder bonanzas, there are so many choices for great mobile kids birthday parties in San Diego.

Elite Teepees

Three teepee filled with party-goers sit on the floor awaiting a sleepover
Elite Teepees

Let Elite Teepees bring the outdoors in for your happy camper's next birthday slumber party. Teepees in an array of different themes from "unicorn magic" to "game day" are delivered to your home and beautifully set up on the day of the party. Then everything is cleared away the next day. Hand-crafted themed teepees are fully equipped with luxury mattresses and bedding, exquisite decorative accessories, and a large sprinkle of magic. The only things guests need to bring are their overnight bag and sense of adventure for a fun “glamp-in” with friends.

Cost: $90 per teepee for overnight rental, plus delivery
Online: eliteteepees.com

 

Soft PlayZone

If you’re having a fête with a bunch of littles, then this four-hour soft play zone rental will be a hit! You get a choice of play areas, the basic fun zone (8 feet by 8 feet), or the slightly bigger wow zone (8 feet by 12 feet). This local shop is courteous and on time, and the play zone is clean for the party. Also, they have a cover tent for a small extra fee to keep partygoers protected from the sun.

Cost: Fun Zone, $170 for four hours; Wow Zone, $240 for four hours; tent rental is $25
Online: softplayzone.com

Kid Ventures

Everyone loves Kid Ventures, so why not bring them to you? Their mobile party package (for up to 16 kids) includes two team members to set up activities, clean-up, and extra help to make your party perfect. Also, it includes an obstacle course and a craft station. Plus, you can add in a character or other options. Little birthday goers leave with a candy medal and coloring pictures, and the birthday half-pint gets a free pass to Kid Ventures.

Cost: $495 for 1.5 hours
Online: indoorplaysandiego.com

Related: The Best Places to Host Your Kid’s Birthday Bash

Snapology

Two boys build together during a Snapology mobile birthday party
Snapology

If you have a little brick builder in your house then invite over Snapology to set up a pint-sized build. They provide a one-hour party time and build activity for up to 15 party guests. Your little birthday wonder will get to choose the theme and get a free t-shirt, too.

Cost: $250 for 15 party guests
Online: sandiego.snapology.com

ArtBeat

Two rows of children stand painting at easels during a mobile art birthday party
ArtBeat

Let kids express their inner Picasso at a mobile art party tailored to your birthday sweetie. Not only will a seasoned instructor show up for a one-hour or 90-minute class but all art materials are provided, including table covers and aprons. Your little artist can pick the painting for the party on their website. Choose a classic painting party or go all out with a themed art party package such as an Enchanted Oceans Party, Magical Fairy Party, or Sweets & Treats Party. And if you have a Harry Potter fan, one of their Potion Parties might be the way to go instead.


Cost: Parties start at $135 for up to seven kiddos
Online: artbeatsandiego.com/mobile-art-parties2.html

Game Truck

Got a game-crazed clan? Then these wheels are for you. Your little video guru can let loose on the latest (and greatest) tech consoles from Xbox One, PlayStation 4, and Nintendo Switch with a choice of more than 30 age-appropriate games. It's easy on you—there's a game coach available to answer questions and to make sure the party runs smoothly.

Cost: $449 for a two hour party
Online: gametruckparty.com

FunFlicks

A giant backyard movie screen? We know who would be the cool parents on the block! The event crew will set up, run, and take down the giant inflatable movie screen and outdoor sound system. Best part? You do nothing. They can even bring popcorn. Your birthday kiddo will be the talk of the town.

Cost: Packages start at $379
Online: funflicks.com

Royal Entertainers

Looking for an Ice Queen or Galactic Knight to host your kid's birthday bash? From face painting and dance lessons to singing and a cake ceremony, your birthday princess leaves with a crown. From Knight Academy and light sword training to a magic show and graduation, your birthday buddy leaves a knight. Let the royals host your next fest.


Cost: $225 for 1.5 hours
Online: royalentertainers.com

Artful Chefs

The best part (for you!) about this cooking party is that you do nothing: Junior Chef parties cook up a good mobile birthday for your little one and all of their friends. The party lasts two-and-a-half hours during which children prepare the main course, drink and (of course!) dessert, then sit down and enjoy their creations. Your birthday kiddo picks the party theme - and there are plenty of choices to be had - from meatball madness, pizza, French crepes to an after-slumber party brunch!  

Cost: $500 for up to eight children
Online: artfulchef.com

Tumble Gym Bus

Children play on the tumble gym bus at a mobile birthday party
Tumble Gym Bus

If your little birthday wonder prefers a high-energy party that will have them bouncing off the walls, then this bus at your house makes party planning easy peasy. There are two instructors that lead the birthday crew in song, dance, games, and tumbling exercises. Plus, there's a cool yellow slide out the back of the bus. They can even do the goody bags!

Cost: Packages start at $325
Onlinegigsalad.com/tumblegymbus

Mad Science

Bubbling potions, dry ice, and eggs that fit into incredibly small spaces: Your birthday scientist will be amazed at this show. Add on more science to amp up the party: rocket blasting, shaved ice rainbow potion, and slime-making. If your guests' age range varies, this high-energy abracadabra works well. All party-goers receive a gift of slime, superball, or silly putty.

Cost: Parties start at $315 plus $5 per child
Online: madscience.org/sandiego

Related: Animal Birthday Parties That’ll Make Kids Go Wild!

 

The Children's Wood Shop Bus

Do you want to forgo screen time for hands-on fun? Then the wood shop bus is for you and your birthday crew. Budding carpenters don the safety goggles and get to hammer, saw, and drill their way to a new wooden toy. Kids love working where they get to use real tools, just like the grown-ups. There's a knowledgeable instructor on hand to teach the kids about wood shop rules and how to use the tools. Birthday parties are available from October through June and are best for children ages 7 to 11.

Cost: $300 to $400 (depending on location)
Online: woodshopbus.com

Super Star Gymnastics

Does your little birthday cutie tumble around the house like Simone Biles? Well, we've got the 4-1-1 on the best gym party. They'll bring the mat, parachute, the trampoline (it's small), two teachers, and let the cartwheels and somersaults begin. Experienced and personable owner Katie P. knows how to have a party and host it too! You get to take lots of pics.

Cost: Starts at $200 per hour
Online: superstargymnastics.com

Train Party Express

All aboard, transportation-crazed kids! Schedule a trackless train ride or race cars that little riders can buckle up and pretend to steer (up to 18 passengers). Attendants dressed as conductors or NASCAR drivers will drive your parade on grass, gravel, or concrete. Complete the package with add-on face painting, foam, or snow cone machines. This mobile party provider serves part of San Diego County.

Cost: Packages start at $250 per hour
Online: trainpartyexpress.com

Nightingale Music School

Gather your friends and make music together. From puppets and parachutes to bubbles and a giant drum, this 45-minute come-to-you party is great kid fun. Sing a song, shake the maracas, or dance along with up to 14 guests. These parties are perfect for infants, tots, and toddlers.

Cost: Packages start at $195
Online: nightengalemusicschool.com

Related: Kid-Friendly Nail Salons We Love

Girlygirl Galas

If your kid's motto is something like keep calm and spa on, why not have a spa party catered to your house? From sweet-smelling lotions and fuzzy bathrobes to pink polish and soothing cucumber eye pads, sit back and let these gals plan a spa fest. The best part? You can relax too.

Cost: Spa packages start at $360
Online: girlygirlgalas.com

San Diego Children's Discovery Museum

The museum is not currently booking mobile birthday parties but plans to restart soon—check the website for updates.

What could be better than a museum party rolling right up to your door? San Diego Children's Discovery Museum's mobile birthday parties bring all the fun of the museum to your home. Their party package includes an arts and crafts activity as well as three mobile exhibits for partygoers to explore: a custom-built ball wall, an imagination playground, and a wind tunnel. All of the exhibits engage kids in educational and entertaining hands-on activities that teach them about topics ranging from architecture to aerodynamics. Also included are two birthday party assistants and a special gift for the kid of honor.

Cost: $495 for up to 40 kids (10 percent off for museum members)
Online: sdcdm.org/mobile-birthday-party

Stepping into the Grand Hall of Disney Cruise Line’s newest ship is like stepping into a fairy tale. Okay, so maybe that’s a given. But after over six years of hard work (and a little bit of pixie dust), the Disney Wish truly embodies the company’s mission to unlock the magic. Setting sail on its maiden voyage on July 14th, 2022, families will find the theme of enchantment winding its way through the entire ship, offering more opportunities for both family fun and adult adventures than ever before. 

“A dream is a wish your heart makes.”

Hyperspace Lounge on the Disney Wish
The ‘Star Wars’ Hyperspace Lounge courtesy of Disney Cruise Line.

Cinderella’s castle is a classic symbol of magic and enchantment, and from the staterooms and the forest setting of the Walt Disney Theater to the immersive storytelling and interactive adventures, the Wish embodies that spirit everywhere. “We love to see you go WOW,” says Denise Case, Disney’s Director, Entertainment Creative. “It’s all about giving the guests the experience.” And experiences are what you’ll have. There are many firsts, from the rainforest in the Senses Spa to the Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge, the Aquamouse, and the Disney Uncharted Adventure, a multidimensional journey that takes guests on quests throughout the ship, unlocking a hidden layer of magic around every turn. 

What’s different about the Disney Wish? 

upper decks on the Disney Wish
The pool deck on the Disney Wish courtesy of Disney Cruise Line.

The Disney Wish has 1,254 staterooms, and 451 of them have connecting doors to accommodate larger groups. There are four royal suites, one of which is the Wish Tower Suite, a nearly 2,000 square-foot penthouse suite located in the forward funnel of the ship. Designed in a breathtaking Moana theme, it sleeps up to eight guests and comes with first-class amenities, a private elevator, and concierge services. 

Be sure to wander from floor to floor of the ship, looking for the tiny details Disney does best. There are subtle nods to Cinderella’s castle in the Grand Hall, wooden carvings around the portals in the Keg & Compass pub, intricate illustrations of famous Disney stories and locations in the midship lobbies, and in Cargo Bay, the Star Wars-themed space in the Oceaneer’s Club, answers to questions that fans of the franchise might not have even considered.

This shouldn’t surprise you, as Disney Cruise Line is known for its amazing kids’ spaces. “There is no doubt that kids are going to have the time of their lives aboard the Disney Wish,” said Danny Handke, senior creative director, Walt Disney Imagineering. “The nursery is a fanciful playground perfect for curious little ones. The tween and teen clubs are so stylish that adults will wish they could hang out there, too! And where else in the world can kids explore a super hero headquarters, a royal kingdom, and an Imagineering lab in a matter of steps? Put simply, it’s great to be a kid on a Disney cruise.”

The Mickey and Friends District on Deck 11 is where guests will be able to soak up the sun and have fun. There are six pools, spread out to make more space for playing and lounging. There’s an incredible Toy Story-themed space ideal for families with younger kids that includes a splash zone, wading pool, and a family waterslide. 

There’s also Disney’s first attraction at sea, the AquaMouse. This impressive 760-foot waterslide takes guests on a journey with Mickey, Minnie, and the gang. Hop on your intertube and be ready for a unique ride that includes show scenes, special effects, and of course, plenty of water. 

What about the entertainment on the Disney Wish? 

Ursula in 'The Little Mermaid' on the Disney Wish
‘The Little Mermaid’ courtesy of Disney Cruise Line.

Disney takes its entertainment seriously, and it’ll be challenging to see it all while on your cruise. In the Walt Disney Theater, there will be two brand-new shows and a re-imagined version of a favorite. 

“Disney Seas the Adventure”
On the first night of your cruise, join Captain Minnie and her pal Goofy as they set sail for an adventure. Goofy finally gets his chance to be the star in this charming production, and you’ll also see many Disney characters that, until now, haven’t had a chance to shine. 

“The Little Mermaid”
This sparkling adaptation of the beloved animated film includes a colorful set, characters portrayed in a new light, and a Broadway-caliber cast.

“Disney’s Aladdin—A Musical Spectacular”
Based on the classic animated film, this live musical version is a fast-paced, delightful production featuring new sets and advanced projections.  

Besides the Walt Disney Theater, two movie theaters constantly play new and classic Disney films throughout the day. In Luna, a gathering place for families and adults alike, you’ll be able to find everything from family trivia to an adults-only club at night.

There is plenty of active entertainment happening in the all-new Hero Zone, a sports arena that hosts various challenges (be sure to try the Incred-Games and the Diaper Dash), and game-show-style family competitions. 

What about the food on the Disney Wish?

Worlds of Marvel on the Disney Wish
Worlds of Marvel courtesy of Disney Cruise Line.

There are three brand-new family restaurants on the Disney Wish, but the concept of rotating through each one with the same team of servers hasn’t changed. “Sharing a meal together is an important part of family life, and we love finding surprising new ways to show our guests a magical time as they dine on each of our ships,” said Ozer Balli, vice president of hotel operations, Disney Cruise Line. “All meals are served, of course, with the incredible care and attention to detail that families expect from our world-class Disney Cruise Line service team, ” he says. 

Worlds of Marvel
Be ready for interactive superhero missions (and a few shenanigans) with Ant-Man and the Wasp as they welcome guests on behalf of The Avengers for the first time. You’ll learn about Pym technology and see items like luggage, dessert, and maybe even the ship itself shrink and grow with the push of a button. You’ll also get an insider’s peek at iconic characters’ weapons, like Black Panther’s suit, Thor’s Hammer, and Iron Man’s Arc Reactor. When an unwelcome villain attacks the Disney Wish, dinner guests get help from Captain America, Ms. Marvel, and Captain Marvel.  The menu is inspired by the Marvel Universe: New Asgard, Ta Lo, Wakanda, and more. 

Arendelle: A Frozen Adventure
Disney’s first theatrical-themed dining experience takes guests back to the Arendelle palace to continue the story of “Frozen.” You’ll walk down a long corridor designed to look just like the movie, with portraits and all, before you make your way into the dining hall to join the fun for Queen Anna and Christof’s engagement party! Join Oken, Olaf, Elsa, and “local musicians” for a night of revelry and fun. Choose your dinner from a variety of Nordic-inspired cuisine, and for the adults, the “Frozen Fractal” cocktail adds an extra sparkly touch to the evening. 

1923
From the original sketches to the art deco decor, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped back in time into the golden era of Hollywood when you dine here. The cuisine is California-inspired: burrata appetizers, Napa romaine salad, rack of lamb, pasta, and much more. 

Marceline Market
This buffet-style restaurant has plenty of options for parents and kids alike. Set on an upper deck, it’s right by all the outdoor fun and serves breakfast and lunch.

Mickey and Friends Festival of Foods
The outside dining is just as good as what you’ll find indoors, and the new additions, Mickey’s Smokestack BBQ and Donald’s Cantina are a must-try. Plus, you’ll find Disney’s world-famous chicken tenders here!

Joyful Sweets
The sweetest stop on the Disney Wish has to be Joyful Sweets. Inspired by Pixar’s Inside Out, there are not only almost 40 flavors of gelato and ice cream (and toppings) but macarons and candy and cupcakes that represent the five emotions.

Where is the adult fun? 

Quiet Cove on the Disney Wish
The adults-only Quiet Cove courtesy of Gabby Cullen.

On the Disney Wish, adult spaces are spread out, and it’s easy to find a place to spend time without the kids. 

Quiet Cove
The upstairs adults-only pool area has an infinity pool, bar, and cafe, plus plenty of spots for lounging in the sun. 

The Bayou
This gathering place is inspired by The Princess and the Frog and offers not only a full bar, but you can also find beignets here! Located near the Grand Hall, you can hear live music that ranges from Disney tunes to classic country.

Star Wars Hyperspace Lounge
One of the most buzzed about spots on the Disney Wish, this bar is designed to make patrons feel as if they’re been whisked through the Star Wars galaxy. Yes, that infamous $5,000 drink is available, but you’ll get just as many thrills from other offerings like The Chancellor., 

The Rose
You’ll find this chic lounge near Palo Steakhouse and Enchante restaurants, the exclusive adults-only dining spots on the ship. 

Nightingale’s and Keg & Compass
Nightingale’s is a piano bar inspired by the story of Cinderella, and Keg & Compass celebrates stories of the sea; you’ll find three craft beers created just for the Disney Wish.

What else do I need to know? 

Captain Minnie Mouse and a friend
Captain Minnie and a friend courtesy of Disney Cruise Line.

The Disney Wish heads out on its maiden voyage on July 14th, 2022, from Port Canaveral, FL for three-and four day cruises to Nassau and Castaway Cay. Make a reservation for your adventure at disneycruise.disney.go.com/why-cruise-disney/wish

 

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This cruise was paid for by Disney Cruise Line, but all opinions belong to the writer. 

The day after Labor Day, as I swaddled Uncle Sam in bubble wrap and folded the red-white and blue buntings from the porch posts, stuffing them into the blue bin along with the patriotic wreath from the front door, I began to dread Christmas. I am in the blank period, one of the rare months of the year when my mantles are bare with no holiday decorations popping with color against white and cream walls.

Only January and September really, is when my house feels void of celebration, more so perhaps now, as my sons’ boxes and bins fill his room where once there was a train table. He is ready to go back to college after the longest Spring Break ever. Last year he came home in March and never left. For a time, that was literal. Our family of four never stepped beyond the white fence that separates the rose bushes from the sidewalk and there, in the front yard, we played corn hole nightly, waving at neighbors who crossed to the other side of the street in their masks, less the potential COVID-filled spittle from our cheerful hellos drift on the spring breeze through their K-95s. Weeks drifted into months and I couldn’t believe we were still holed up in the house when I took out the box of patriotic holiday decorations in May of 2020, then put it back in September, still waving at masked neighbors from 30 feet away. I bought a Halloween-themed facemask. Then I got a Christmas one of pinecones dotted with glitter.

Ours has long been a Christmas house. I have a dozen bins of decorations that I’ve treasured for decades. We’ve hosted an annual Christmas Eve party for as many as 80 people over the years. More recently it has been more like 30-40, as friends have moved to new cities or on to new traditions within their clans. But last year it was just us four. I decorated as usual, trying to bring some semblance of magic to the 28 walls that enclosed us for 9 months, a gestation period that gave birth to nothing but fear in my mind, and, perhaps an ulcer housed somewhere near my womb. And there we all sat on the couch, eating cookies, listening to Christmas music and watching Rudolph. It was lovely in a way. It was just about us, and the love for my most treasured people in the world. It was easier, less stressful, at least if you didn’t think about overflowing ICUs or the coming election. But it was also lonely. Hosting has long inspired me: a reason to cook, to shop, to wrap, to sprinkle my pixie dust on every surface. An excuse not to dust those garland-covered shelves and nooks of books. But as I boxed up those 12 bins of Santas and stockings and lighted branches of plastic pine and holly, I felt so unseen. Suddenly the three other people who were always underfoot weren’t. My efforts to create magic must indeed be magical to them because they are rarely around when what goes up comes down.

Last week, as I put away my blatant patriotism, wondering all the while if I even feel patriotic in this era of acerbic division, I am dreading finding my glittery pinecone facemask atop the boxes of gold and red ornaments. I dread wearing it to the grocery store along with my festive “Merry and Bright” sweater, knowing we may not have our party this year either. My sister and her family have moved to Montana. My husband’s siblings have refused to get vaccinated. Perhaps we’ll never have the party again now that our friends and family have learned that they can make alternate plans.

My son moves out next week. He’s taking with him the surfboards and guitars, the lamp and the desk chair along with the collages of photos of his friends that color his room like a ceaseless celebration. The boxes and bins of his life will be stored in another place as I say goodbye not just to him, but to his things.

Surely his homecomings for Thanksgiving and Christmas will inspire me to decorate. Surely the boxes of pumpkins and leaves and pinecone strands entwined with ribbon still have a place in my nest without birds? Please tell me I am not too old and tired to keep making magic. Please tell me that one of the losses from this pandemic is not the loss of my holiday spirit. Tell me that the love expressed through all our traditions and the memories of a childhood of celebrations are so expansive they can’t fit into any box.

Suzanne Weerts is a producer, writer and storyteller who (pre-pandemic) shared tales from her life on stages across Southern California. Lately she's been  indulging in way too much wine and chocolate while trying to change the world in conversations with friends on Zoom.

Fun activities that double as party favors are two-in-ones that make for party planning perfection. They give the kids something to do at the big bash, plus, it’s also a take-home treat. Now, that’s a parenting hack we can get behind. From darling paper dolls to super slime, scroll down to see our favorites.

Homemade Lightsabers

Muddy Boots

Every Jedi-in-training needs a lightsaber. We love that these pool noodle lightsabers are lightweight and affordable. Keep the fun going with a challenge: can they use the Force (and their lightsabers) to keep a balloon from touching the ground? Fly over to Muddy Boots to find out how to make lightsabers.

DIY Bracelets

Buy Some Love

These DIY unicorn bracelets from Buy Some Love will make your kiddo's birthday party extra magical. Each kit is stocked with enough beads for ten bracelets plus silver unicorn charms and beading string. Plus, Buy Some Love lets you request beads in your unicorn superfan's favorite colors, or go with classic rainbow-colored beads.

Available at Etsy seller Buy Some Love, $25

Slime

I Heart Naptime

It's slime time! We love that I Heart Naptime's Fluffy Slime recipe takes just three ingredients, so it'll be easy for your party animals to make it in a few different colors. Pick up a pack of containers like these and pack them full of your party guests a personal batch of slime.

Individual Canvases

Jim Pennucci via flickr

For budding artists, nothing could be better than a painting party. Order up a bulk pack of canvases, cover your table with newspaper and paints, and wait for inspiration to strike. Then, each mini Michelangelo guest can bring home their own masterpiece.

Design-a-Truck

EndeavorToys

Beep Beep! We love this four pack of wooden trucks and wheels that lets little drivers build their own vehicles. After they're done assembling, extend the fun by setting out paints so kids can give their trucks custom paint jobs before they hit the road.

Available at Etsy seller EndeavorToys, $20 for four.

Paper Dolls

Merrilee/Mer Mag

Mer Mag's sweet, retro craft will have the guests at a dance-themed birthday party cheering bravo. With the help of a printable template, you can prep chains of paper dolls, and each kiddo can then decorate her own troupe of tiny dancers. Leap over to Mer Mag to download the paper doll template and find out how to set up this activity.

Name Letters to Paint

Susan Crabtree via Puerta Bella Design

And A is for awesome! We love the idea of giving each guest a letter to decorate. Since your VIPs will probably want to do their own name, you’ll have to be sure the RSVP list is set a few days before the big bash. See how Puerta Bella Design principal Susan Crabtree set up her kiddo’s party by clicking here.

Yarn Dolls

Jackie Currie via Happy Hooligans

This simple craft is so sweet. Let your party people design their very own stick dolls in any theme: mermaids, pirates, animals, and more! Craftmaster Jackie Currie suggests using a low-heat glue gun (so the kiddos can handle it) and explains the rest of the how-to over at Happy Hooligans.

A Bottle of Pixie Dust

Melissa Heckscher

Set up a pixie dust making station and let your little guests mix up their own bottles to take home after the magical affair. Click here to find out what you’ll need.

Sweet Salt Dough

Agnes Hsu via Hello Wonderful

With a little advance prep, you can easily make a batch of salt dough in all sorts of shapes: dinosaur fossils, leaf prints, stars and more. Bring out the batch during the party and let kids paint to their heart's content. We are especially head over heels for the bright and cheerful salt dough leaves from Hello Wonderful.

Take-Home LEGO Creation

Pioneer Library System via flickr

We all know kids can easily spend an afternoon building with LEGO. This time, let them take home their creation after the party is over. You can choose to buy a small set for each guest or—if your kids are cool with it—select bricks from your own overflowing stash.

Crowns to Go

Celebrated Party

Fairies-in-training will love making these DIY Flower Crowns, and you'll love that everything you need for this party activity comes in one kit. If your birthday kid's crown style leans more towards kings and queens than flower halos, then order a pack of cardboard crowns. Set them out with stick-on jewels and markers, and you'll soon have a house full of tiny royals.

available at Etsy seller Celebrated Parties, $15 for three.

Tiny Treasures

Catch My Party

Whether you’re entertaining pirates, mermaids or even Indiana Jones-style adventurers, your party guests will totally dig designing their own treasure chest. Your local craft supply store—like these from Michael’s—should have plenty on hand. Add paint, jewels, stickers, and that’s it!

Mini Microphones

Jen Kitzmiller via Pretty Mini

For a quick and easy solution that doesn’t require any prep, consider these adorable DIY microphones from Pretty Mini. There are 14 different colors to choose from and the mics arrive with everything your superstars need to shine. Click here to order a set or two.

Personalized Pots

Susy Moris via flickr

A personalized flower pot is a gift that keeps on giving. Giving your guests some seeds or a small flower to plant is a nice touch, but it’s the paint that’ll keep them occupied during party time.

Make Mug Art

Kersey Campbell via Handmade Charlotte

The classic holiday gift just got a party makeover. This is an easy and fun project for kids of all ages (supervision of super-littles is recommended) and takes just 30 minutes in the oven to set the ink. Hop over to Handmade Charlotte to see the entire tutorial.

Aprons to Decorate

Amazon

Perfect for a Sugar Rush-worthy bake-off or just a chance to show off cupcake decorating skills, outfit your party guests with their own aprons. Pick up a bundle of aprons in bright colors or simple white, and pass out fabric markers or puffy paints so that your guests can add a little flair. It's a perfectly delicious activity for your chefs.

Available at amazon.com, $2.88.

— Oz Spies

Featured image: Lidya Nada via Unsplash

 

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I often wonder why costumes are so special to children. One of my children would get stuck on a particular costume for months—wearing the same thing every day. As a preschooler, he seemed to really believe that he would fly a rescue helicopter if he just had the right gear on. He would leave his “rescue helicopter pilot suit” by his bed at night, a suit which included the jumpsuit, rain boots, and a bike helmet to which he attached the plastic lid of a fruit container and some pipe cleaners to look like a mask and microphone. One night he showed up at my bed, fully dressed in his rescue helicopter pilot suit, telling me the airport had called—there was an emergency and he had to go fly the helicopter. It was 3 a.m.; he was 4 years old.

Then he moved onto the Santa costume—beard and all. He wore that for more than a month. He wore Santa pajamas to Christmas Eve service and threw a sport coat and bowtie on only to appease me—and to perhaps get even higher on Santa’s good list. After all, he had asked Santa for some pixie dust for Christmas that year so that he could fly like Santa’s reindeer.

Though he never flew a helicopter or like Santa’s reindeer, there was a common thread with these costumes—it seemed he really believed that the costume would ignite a bit of magic inside of him and he could then do the impossible. Or at least imagine the impossible in such real terms that it would change his very being. Regardless, there was a belief that magic is possible if you can only kindle that yearning within one’s self.

As adults, many of us also seem to be trying on costumes—costumes of the right job, the clothes which portray success, the good school for our kids, the impressive home in the right neighborhood, a place in the sought after social circles. These adult costumes are expensive, time-consuming, and surface-level for too many of us. We seek them out not to kindle something wonderful and inspiring inside us, but rather to fit others’ expectations of us. They are not about flying a rescue mission to save someone else, but rather to save ourselves from criticism or rejection.

We adults no longer believe in magic at all, let alone any magic within us—we understand the science behind what seems impossible; we know if it is too good to be true, it is a scam; and we are too busy to notice the enduring power of our actions, words, and relationships. We can become so frantic and drained trying to keep our heads above water that we are not still enough to hear the yearning within us. So many of us are overwhelmed with bad news and stress that we can’t see any magic in this world or believe we have any sort of power to change the world around us for the better. For so many of us grown-ups, we don’t see the disconnect between our inner yearnings and gifts and the artificial costumes of our lives.

What would our world look like if we adults sought costumes which kindle something wonderful in us? What if we adults recognized that kind words, selfless acts, and deep relationships are so powerful the effects cannot be explained by science alone? What if we took a bit of this time in quarantine to be still and listen for our yearnings, to see that we don’t need the expensive or “right” costumes to be happy, to understand the disconnect between our yearnings and our costumes? What if we started to admit that even though we are grown up there is yet a little flicker of magic within us and worked to build a costume that nurtures that magic into a roaring flame? What hope could we inspire, what joy could we bring, what change could we embody?

Heather lives in Louisville, Kentucky with her husband, three sons, one dog, one bearded dragon, and one fish. She is a lawyer, but currently home with her children. When she is not mom-ing, she likes to spend time with her family and friends, watch documentaries, and go for a jog!