Family pics, family party, family movie night. These Valentine’s Day outfit ideas for the whole family are ready for the 14th!
Can you feel it? Love is in the air. Candy is on the shelves. Valentine’s Day crafts are trending on Pinterest. It’s Cupid’s time to shine! And what’s the Season of Love without dressing the part? Fall and early winter can feel a little dark, a little grey. The time between January and Spring Break is all about bringing some color back into our lives (and into our wardrobes!). Of course, we believe you can wear whatever you want, any time of the year. The rules are totally outdated, but there’s definitely a trend happening after we ring in the New Year—more color, more print, and bolder statements are popping up everywhere. So there’s no better time to embrace all of those trends than Valentine’s Day (and beyond.). And there’s no better time to start looking into Valentine’s Day outfit ideas for the whole family!
As long as we’re leaning into more color, more print, and bolder statements, we’re naturally going to lean on Boden! We’ve said it before and we’ll say it again: Boden knows how to do color. It’s a signature British style move to take classic silhouettes and wear them in deeply saturated hues. Those classic styles make everything Boden creates so easy to wear. Their absolutely adorable kiddo’s line, Mini Boden (can you even handle how cute that is?), takes precious prints and daily essentials and adds a twist! On the other hand, their pieces for mom and dad are just as much fun and great for mixing and matching. So when it comes to Valentine’s Day outfit ideas for the whole family, Boden is the first place we turned.
There’s no better time to shop Boden, too, thanks to the major sales happening now! Take an Extra 30% off Sale With Free Shipping & Returns Over $49 With Code: EX30 (1/27 – 1/31) Up to 15% Off + Free Shipping and Returns When You Spend $49 with Code F2L9 (Now – 2/28) Children’s Wear Spend & Save: Spend $50 Get 15% Off Selected Styles With Code: Q3R3 (Now 1/31)
Mom
Valentine's Day at the Office
We'll never get enough red and pink combinations, and you can easily take these on-trend wide-leg trousers into the spring with you! Not to mention the extremely versatile belt and striped top that can be dressed up or down.
If you were up late baking Valentine's Day cookies, this adorable and casual ensemble is super easy to throw on and still look oh-so-put-together. Those slouchy jeans are going to end up being your favorite for sure (go ahead and size down if you prefer a more fitted silhouette!).
Who says Valentine's Day has to just be about romantic love? Galentine's Day gives us an excuse to celebrate our girlfriends, mom crew, and chosen sisters, so getting dressed in something cute like this darling red dress (that can go from desk to dinner in a snap) and heading to brunch is a great way to embrace all the love in our lives! Add a pop of print with the leopard flats and you're set.
So you miscounted the number of Valentines your kiddo needs for their whole class and now you're running straight to the store after school drop-off. Yep, we've been there. Luckily, our fave comfy aesthetic doesn't mean compromising your style! This oh-so-soft sweatshirt and updated joggers are as cute as they are comfy. We're crushing on leopard, so add the sneakers, T-bar necklace, and a versatile crossbody and top it off with the classic denim jacket (try rolling the sleeves to let the pink sweatshirt cuffs peek out!).
Parents everywhere understand that snagging a date night isn't always possible. May we suggest taking advantage of lunch hour (or hour and a half) with a great meal, catching up on your day, and appreciating each other? This is such a sharp look, especially since individually, each piece can be worn in a bunch of different ways. A tee will be great with the cords, and the button down can be added to jeans!
Maybe it's a full potluck, maybe it's a cookie exchange. Maybe someone brought pink frosted donuts to the break room. No matter how the office celebrates Valentine's Day, this layered look is on-trend and features mixed prints (so British!) and our favorite men's corduroys!
Boden's soft fabrication makes picking clothes out for our littles so easy! We have major heart eyes for the corduroy leggings, and layers are never a bad idea when it comes to kiddos.
All that classroom party fun feels even more special with a special outfit. This twirlable skirt is perfect for Valentine's Day, and the sweater and tights will keep her warm (even if she refuses to wear a jacket).
Popcorn, a bag of conversation hearts, and the comfiest velour set makes for an epic V-Day movie night! We couldn't resist those rain boots and matching hair slides, so she can also rock this outfit at daycare or the playground, too.
Surprise! These jeans may look like denim, but they're actually jersey! That means he can play all day with the pals in total comfort. The perfect Mini Boden Tee and the contrast sneakers is the play outfit any kid needs.
It's easy to get your minis to dress up a little with those incredible soft jersey jeans and button down shirt with retro cardigan! Bonus: this outfit will be awesome for Easter or picture day, too!
If it's playdate duds you're after, this combo from Boden will be your go-to for him! Versatile (and thankfully durable) joggers, solid cotton henley, and a sock set to keep him going every day of the week!
Talk about photo op-ready! This sweet little dress and tights combo makes their first Valentine's pics extra-postable (on the Tinybeans App, of course!).
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.
Spots go quickly at these Seattle mid-winter break camps
Mid-winter break is just around the corner. And if a fun-in-the-sun vacation isn’t in your family’s plans for mid-winter break, we’re here to help. Keep the cabin fever at bay by signing the kids up for an engaging winter break camp in Seattle or on the Eastside. We’ve got camps for all kinds of kids on our list. And guess what? They all have spots open. From sports and engineering to art and cooking, you’ll find an entertaining camp on our list of Seattle camp faves. You work. They play. What more could you ask for if you’re staying close to home?
Who wouldn’t want to play dodgeball, soccer, and capture the flag over mid-winter break? We guarantee the kids will have more fun at Arena Sports than they will if they're stuck at home. Many Arena Sports locations will be running mid-winter break camps, and they fill up fast, so be sure to plan ahead, parents. We love that campers can come for full- or half-days and for a single session or stay the whole week. Flexibility is key these days, isn't it? Camps run from 9 a.m.-4 p.m. for full day and in the afternoon from 1 p.m.-4 p.m. for half day. Dates vary based on local school districts' mid-winter break schedules.
Good to Know: If you're signing up your campers (ages 6 and up) for camp at the Mill Creek or Issaquah locations, they can also stay entertained with laser tag, mini golf, and other attractions that are part of the entertainment complex.
Locations in Magnuson, SODO, Issaquah, Remond & Mill Creek
Can you dig it? The Tilth Alliance will have kids Gardening for Pizza over mid-winter break. Hosted at the Rainier Beach Urban Farm and Wetlands, this hands-on camp is a full culinary experience—from garden to table. Kids ages 5 and up will spend the week learning what it takes to make pizza—wait for it—from scratch. Starting in the garden and working all the way through kneading the dough and putting on the toppings, kids will develop the skills and knowledge to make and bake their own at home. The fact it ends with a celebratory pizza party on the last day is a total win.
Kick cabin fever to the curb when you sign up the kids (ages 6-9) for this combo outdoor-indoor parkour camp with Kong Academy. They'll get a chance to learn new skills and practice what they already know as they make their way over, around, and sometimes under obstacles at this week-long, half-day camp. It all starts with an engaging warm-up and games before the guided lesson begins. Then it's off to try what you've learned and play a bit too before heading home. And while the parkour skills are what your kids will rave about, they'll also be gaining social skills, and that's hard to beat.
Dates: Feb. 20-24, 2023 Time: 9 a.m.-noon
Phinney Neighborhood Association 6532 Phinney Ave. N. Seattle Online:kongacademy.org
Turns out, kids don't need to run away to join the circus over mid-winter break. They can attend camp at SANCA instead. And since no previous classes are necessary to attend camp, it's a great place to start, if you have a kiddo who is interested in learning circus arts. There are two camps to choose from this session. Younger wannabe performers (ages 6-8) can check out Circus Odyssey where they will develop body awareness through tumbling, balancing, ring passing, and partner acrobatics. Older kiddos (ages 9-12) will become Ringmasters, linking individual skills into sequences and practicing choreography.
If you live in West Seattle, you know what a gift this playspace is for local families. And the folks at Outer Space Seattle will be offering drop-off camp for kids over mid-winter break too. They'll have a chance to play on the enormous structure, do some arts and crafts, and play with friends too. The best part? It's day-by-day so you can sign up for one day or all five, depending on your February break plans. Add in a discount for sibs and you've got your plans made.
Your kids love to play with toys, but at this camp, they'll learn how to build them all by themselves. Budding builders and engineers will enjoy safely wielding woodworking tools (think: hammers, saws, sanders, and more) as they create. Sign up for a morning or afternoon session. Kids will need to bring a snack and wear closed-toes shoes each day. The best part? The project they take home at the end.
Extra! Extra! Read all about it at this year's Stone Soup Theater mid-winter break camp. Newsies is the musical and kids ages 8 and up are invited to join the cast performing the 1982 Disney musical. Not only will kids have the chance to strut their stuff on stage, but they'll also learn about the real-life newsboy strike in NYC in 1899. This show stopper is as empowering as it is fun for kids who love the stage.
Good to Know: After-camp care is available until 5:30 p.m. for an additional $115.
Dates: Feb. 20-24, 2023 Times: 9 .a.m-3 p.m.
Wallingford Presbyterian Church 1414 N. 42nd St. Seattle Online:stonesouptheatre.org
Great things are happening at this Greenwood sewing studio over mid-winter break, where families will have two camps to choose from. If a longer camp is what you're after, try the Animal Onesie Pajama camp (Feb. 22-24). Unicorn horns, kitty ears, and fuzzy tummies are all in the mix. Or stick to a quick two-day P.J. Party camp (Feb. 20-21) where kids will learn sewing basics, make PJ pants and a gum drop floor pillow. Whatever your kiddo's whimsy, they'll get a chance to explore it and make it here. No previous experience is required to sign up. Remember to bring a snack and a mask and dress for outdoor play—it's all part of the day. Psst... if you want to make a full week of it, sign them up for both camps. It's almost too easy.
Good to Know: Both camps are for beginners, ages 7 and up.
LEGO fans love camps at Play-Well TEKnologies. This winter, they'll be offering a Winter Wonderland Engineering camp in Shoreline for kids ages 6-11. More than a chance to just play with LEGOs, kids will engineer snowmobiles, sleds, and other wintry gear. Plus, we hear they might even get to experience the Polar Express. You won't need your mitten for this STEM-themed camp, but your mini figs sure will.
Dates: Feb. 21-24, 2023 Times: 9 a.m.-noon
Spartan Recreation Center 202 N.E. 185th St. Shoreline, WA Online:play-well.org
Bring your budding artists for a week of outdoor art at Neo Art School. Register for just a day or sign your little maker up for the whole week at this Ballard-area day camp. While they're staying cozy under the heated tents, kids will upcycle items and use paint and other mediums to create their masterpieces, and the promise of new projects each camp keeps kids engaged. When they need a break, it's off to the meridian playground to burn off some energy. If you need extended care (from 8 a.m.-6 p.m.), they've got that too.
If you're on the Eastside, and your kids love art, sign them up for one of two mid-winter break camps this year. If you're in the Lake Washington School District, you'll want to take advantage of this quick two-day camp that lines up with the district's break. And if you're in the Bellevue School District, sign your kids up for the four-day camp happening the following week. No matter which camp you choose, little artists will work alongside owner Noga Unger creating art and learning about famous world artists. Bring a lunch, and get ready to create something new (and learn a little bit too).
Good to Know: There's also a one-day camp offered on President's Day (Feb. 20) if you want to pad your week in either direction.
Editor’s Note: As of press time, all the information in this story was accurate. But, as we know, things with COVID-19 can change rapidly. Please be sure to check directly with the camps concerning cancellation and refund policies or any changes to programming prior to registering.
With the current temps it seems unnatural to even think about summer camp signup. But, not unlike holiday decorations popping up months in advance, the camp chatter starts earlier and earlier each year. Some camps began registrations already and while you’re not too late to the game, it’s definitely time to start doing your research. From a focus on films to learning new sports, read on to find a few picks for camps to sign up for now.
Morton Arboretum
Morton Arboretum, credit Maria Chambers
Kids get totally immersed in nature and outdoor adventures with more than 100 camps planned among 1,700 acres of trees. The Arboretum's woodlands, ponds and prairie become one big classroom where campers learn about the natural world through science experiments, STEM, art and creative play.
Avid4 Adventure is new to Chicago, but they've been hosting camps in Colorado and California for years that focus on building confidence, decision-making skills and cultivating a sense of adventure in the outdoors.
Their two-week Adventure Camp takes kids in grades 2-7 to local settings for thrilling outdoor experiences like mountain biking, hiking, canoeing and kayaking, or SUP. When younger kids first attend camp, the focus is on getting comfortable with new activities. As they get older, the attention is shifted to teamwork and deepening technical competence.
SUP Camp allows kids to get out on the water where they can experience the fun of paddling while developing balance. Trained instructors teach campers basic strokes, rescue techniques and water safety.
Explorer Camp gets kids in grades K-1 outside hiking, paddling, learning solid biking skills and engaging in creative pursuits like yoga, art and music.
Dates: Adventure & Explorer Camps; (4) 2-week sessions, Jun. 6-Aug. 5; SUP Camp, (5) 1-week sessions Ages: Grades K-7 Christ Church of Lake Forest, 100 N. Waukegan Rd., Lake Forest Online:avid4.com
Hi-Five Sports Camp
Hi-Five Sports Camp Chicago
Top priority for this camp that's a dream come true for active kids is FUN! It's a total bonus the programming keeps your child active, healthy, smiling—and perhaps ready for early bedtimes from happy exhaustion. Hi-Five Sports Camp Chicago is about so much more than winning or losing, it's about teamwork, playing hard and fair, making new friends and learning the power of camaraderie. The staff is filled with professional coaches, high school and college athletes, as well as experienced P.E. teachers who are ready to guide kids through a positive, self-esteem building experience.
Dates: West Loop camps running Jun. 20-Aug. 12 Ages: Grades Pre-K-9 City-based camps hosted at either Chicago Hope Field/Quest Multisport or Whitney Young Magnet HS. Locations also in Naperville, Northbrook, St. Charles, & Mt. Prospect Online:hifivesportsclubschicago.com
In the meantime: Schedule a Hi-Five "Housecall". You gather 3-10 kids for 1-2 hours at a location of your choosing, and Hi-Five handles the planning and supplies the equipment. Also, check their website for day-off camps throughout the school year.
FAME Center
FAME Center Fine Arts Summer Camp offers two-week sessions of full-day, in-person camp. Each session explores a different theme culminating in a special celebration on the final Friday. Campers participate in 4, one-hour music, visual art or theater classes facilitated by FAME Center teaching staff. On Fridays, kids are treated to a Fine Arts Masterclass with local Chicago artists. Alongside fine arts classes, campers fill the rest of their days with fun, creative group activities, playing games and spending time outdoors.
Dates: (3) 2-week sessions, Jun. 20-Aug. 5 Ages: 6-12 Willow Creek Community Church, 1347 S. State St., Dearborn Park Online:famecenter.org
Chicago Botanic Garden
Chicago Botanic Garden
No way kids will suffer from summer break boredom at Chicago Botanic's camp. They'll be one with nature exploring a range of themes including science, nature, art, ecology and cooking. Each day offers a different adventure.
In the meantime: The Chicago Botanic garden grounds are open for Chicagoans to enjoy. Please register for a timeslot prior to visiting. Check their website for day-off camps throughout the year.
Camp Galileo
Camp Galileo
This camp is really the perfect combination of learning and fun with weekly themes like Dinosaur Dig, Amusement Park Adventure, Castle Quest and Counselor in Training. Camp Galileo presents art, science and outdoor activities on a daily basis. They can provide before and aftercare if you need to extend the day.
Dates: Jun. 20- Aug. 12 (dates vary by location) Ages: Grades Pre-K-10 (grades vary by location) Camps offered in West Loop, Lincoln Park, Wicker Park, Lincoln Square, Evanston, LaGrange, Winnetka, Deerfield & Arlington Heights Online: galileo-camps.com
The Kids' Table
The Kids' Table
The Kids' Table offers hands-on cooking fun all summer! Guided by chef instructors, kids get to chop, grate and roll their way to different delicious dishes each day. Registration is all week-by-week, so kids can join for as many weeks as they'd like. Best of all, these camps will inspire your kiddo to play a more active role in the kitchen (even cleanup!).
Dates: Camps running Jun. 6-Sept. 2 Ages: Full-day, ages 5-10; Half-day, ages 11-14 2337 W. North Ave., Wicker Park Online: kids-table.com
Where “playing like a girl” is a form of praise, this specialized camp is focused on empowering girls in a positive and spirited environment. This camp is well-known amongst parents as being a confidence booster for daughters and is a great way to introduce new sports in fun and exciting ways. They offer basketball, softball, soccer, tennis, volleyball and lacrosse, just to name a few.
Game on Sports Camp is also launching a sports camp for boys this summer in Glencoe. They believe adding programming for boys allows them to make an impact on all kids to ensure they show respect for each other on and off the field and empower all to speak up and stand up for themselves.
Located at Naper Settlement, a 12-acre living history museum in Naperville, Camp Naper offers kids the opportunity to explore, create and imagine. Each week offers a different theme and adventure to embark on.
Steve & Kate Camp is perfect for the camper that needs a flexible schedule, pick a day, a week or a month. S&K really lets kids just be kids. Your camper can sing, bake, sew, make a movie, dance or even code their own computer game in one of the several studios scattered throughout. Want to get outside? Jump in on a constant game of hockey, basketball or soccer likely happening all day long. Need some fuel? They provide daily lunch options from a variety of local restaurants and caterers. Sounds amazing — can parents sign up?
Dates: Weeklong camps, Jun. 20-Aug. 19 Ages: 4-12 Locations in Lincoln Park, Lakeview & West Loop Online:steveandkatescamp.com
Bubbles Academy
Bubbles Academy
Bubbles Academy's has a year-round preschool program that offers a summer semester for kids ages 2.5-5. The best thing about this arts-integrated preschool format is its flexibility—you can choose to send your child 2, 3 or 5 days a week. Bubbles Academy’s educational philosophy of arts-integration combines content and skills taken from arts practices including dance, music, theatre and visual arts, with developmentally appropriate, early childhood learning standards and socio-emotional skills.
They will also host an in-person STEAM-focused summer camp for kids going into grades 1-2. Campers will run, play, create and get messy while they explore the interdisciplinary magic in science, tech, engineering, art and math.
Dates: Jun. 7-Aug. 27 (for camps & pre-school) Ages: 2.5-5 for preschool; Grades 1-2 for summer camp 2184 N. Elston, Bucktown Online:bubblesacademy.com
Much like the kind of summer camps you see in the movies, Banner has it all. There’s a 3 to 1 camper to counselor ratio, which gives your little ones access to extra special attention while participating in all the activities they could ever ask for. Banner offers swimming, yoga, a climbing wall, arts, fishing, archery, dune buggies. . . you name it, they have it. While Banner Day Camp is in Lake Forest, they do offer supervised round trip bus service for city dwellers.
Kids will have an unforgettable experience climbing, rappelling, slacklining, ziplining, conducting search and rescue and exercising their creativity with arts and crafts. Each day of the week-long program offers a new fun theme. Summer camp registration is 20% off through Mar. 31.
During Conservation Camp, Lincoln Park Zoo educators will lead campers through a variety of activities that explore the fun and fascinating world of animals. Each day, campers will participate in movement activities, games, and crafts. They will get to see animals at the zoo and meet zoo scientists doing important conservation work.
Dates: Week-long camps, Jun. 21-Aug. 27 (currently a waitlist) Ages: Grades pre-K-4 2001 N. Clark St., Lincoln Park Online: lpzoo.org
In the meantime: Visit the zoo anytime in person!
Facets
Facets
Don’t let the venue fool you, this camp is much more than sitting around watching movies all day. Campers will get an intro into the art of film with a mix of offerings like editing, animation, intro to filmmaking and camper-favorite Film 101, which combines film criticism with basic filmmaking skills. They have both in-person and virtual camps and have expanded their offerings to include a broader range of ages.
Dates: Camps running Jun. 27-Aug. 12 Ages: 8-17 1517 W. Fullerton Ave., Lincoln Park Online:facets.org
In the meantime: Kids can stream age-appropriate film shorts via Facets Kids.
Shedd Aquarium
Shedd Aquarium
Shedd Aquarium is happy to welcome kids to Camp Shedd: Summer Splash, where campers enjoy five straight days of aquatic exploration. Kids will dive into various habitats and ecosystems, come eye-to-eye with incredible animals and participate in hands-on science activities that uncover some truly remarkable animal behaviors and adaptations.
Dates: Weeklong camps Jun. 20-Aug. 5 Ages: Grades K-5 1200 S. Lake Shore Dr., Museum Campus Online:sheddaquarium.org
Shedd's Summer Road trip camp explores the wonders of the Great Lakes. Using the Aquarium as home base, campers will set out on a new adventure every day full of outdoor activities, environmental investigations and unexpected discoveries that will spark compassion, curiosity and conservation for the aquatic world. The week will end with an overnight stay at the aquarium.
Dates: Weeklong camps Jul. 11-16 & Aug. 8-13 Ages: Grades 6-8 1200 S. Lake Shore Dr., Museum Campus Online:sheddaquarium.org
In the meantime: Keep up-to-date on the daily lives of the aquarium’s animals on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter, create learning experiences for early learners through their Sea Curious YouTubeseries, check out live viewsfrom the Underwater Beauty special exhibit and dive deep with 360-video viewsto Keep Sharks Swimming.
Lookingglass Theatre Company
Lookingglass Theatre Company
Lookingglass Theatre Company creates performance magic in a 4-week immersive experience in theatre, movement, music and art. Young artists will receive training from professionals in the core values of Lookingglass Theatre: collaboration, transformation and invention. Campers will create and perform an original piece of theatre.
Dates: Jun. 27-Jul. 22 Ages: Entering grades 3-8 Reva and David Logan Center for the Arts, 915 E. 60th St., Woodlawn Online:lookingglasstheatre.org
In the meantime: Take a circus-infused trip down the rabbit hole with Lookingglass Alice, Apr. 30-Jul. 31. This signature production has toured the country, enchanting audiences of all ages, painted each time with a fresh coat of magic.
Chicago Fire
Chicago Fire
The Chicago Fire Soccer Club hosts summer camps at various Chicagoland locations, making their camps convenient no matter where you live. These camps offer mini soccer fans the opportunity to learn from professional and experienced staff, regardless of their soccer ability.
Raven Theatre's Take Flight Summer Camp features training sessions in theatre arts. This camp is great for beginners looking to learn the basics of performance or more advanced actors looking to hone their skills. Raven's team of teaching artists will help kids feel the confidence to contribute to the artistic process and the courage to try something new.
Dates: Jul. 5-15 & Jul. 18-29 Ages: 6-14 6157 N. Clark St., Edgewater Online:raventheatre.com
Instituto Cervantes of Chicago
Daily lesson plans are created for campers to achieve linguistic, cultural and educational goals. Children will have the unique opportunity to learn Spanish in a playful and enriching environment through total immersion of language while highlighting each student’s creativity and capacity to learn with projects, songs and activities.
Dates: Week-long camps offered Jun. 27-Sep. 2 Ages: 4-15 31 W. Ohio, Near North Side Online:chicago.cervantes.es
Old Town School of Folk Music
The Old Town School of Folk Music’s mission is to create a summer experience where campers develop new skills, build friendships and have the freedom to explore their creativity. They’ll spend their days thinking independently, collaborating with peers and discovering their place in the arts. In-person Summer Mini-Camps have themes like percussion, characters & storytelling, dance, guitar, make believe, sketch comedy, singing and more.
Dates: Week-long camps available Jun.-Aug. Ages: 5-12 4545 N. Lincoln Ave., Lincoln Square Online: oldtownschool.org
In the meantime: Sign up for ongoing classes, ages 0-4 love the Wiggleworms programming. Many of their classes are now offered online, so you don't need to miss a beat with your kid's musical education.
PLANNING IN PROGRESS
Pedalheads Bike Camp
Pedalheads
Want your kids to know the joy of bombing around on a bike all summer? Pedalheads Bike Camps can get your kids up and riding in one week! The camps are held at various locations throughout Chicago and teach your kids all the basics of balance and road rules to make sure they're riding with confidence.
Dates: Week-long camps scheduled Jul. & Aug., dates for camps & sign-ups are TBD Ages: 2 & up 12 locations throughout Chicagoland Online:pedalheads.com/bike/illinois
As a kid, Mary Matthews only played soccer for a few years. But when her daughter’s soccer team needed a coach, Matthews stepped up. “I just absolutely fell in love with it.” she says. That was a decade ago. She’s since started Omaha Street Soccer, a nonprofit that brings soccer to kids in North Omaha.
Matthews’ story is unique, not because she took an extra leap in founding OSS, but because she is a woman. Youth sport—and all other levels of sport—is disproportionally coached by men, despite the growing number of female participants. “Participation has gone up, but women coaches have gone down,” says Dr. Nicol LaVoi, director of The Tucker Center for Research on Girls & Women in Sport.
If more girls than ever are playing sports, does it matter who’s coaching?
It really does, says LaVoi. And it transcends sports. “Seeing women as coaches helps counter outdated gender stereotypes about women in leadership,” she says.
Betsy Jacketti, recreational director of Mandeville Soccer Club in Louisiana, agrees. “It’s very valuable for the girl youth player to have female role models,” she says. Women who coach model leadership roles for girls and provide valuable insight from a female perspective. The list of benefits goes on.
So how do we increase the number of women in coaching roles? LaVoi, Jacketti and Matthews shared some ideas on where to start.
Actively Recruit Moms
A general call for coaches doesn’t cut it. “Most of the calls are not inclusive enough,” says LaVoi. “Coaching is such a male-dominated space that a lot of women don’t think that means them.” Specifically, ask moms to coach—and point out that coaching is a great way to be a role model for young women. It’s also a way to volunteer within the community. “Men’s philanthropy tends to be around giving money while women’s tends to be around giving time and talent,” says LaVoi.
And best of all, if you can parent, you can coach. The skills carry over. “Planning, management, communication, organization, teaching, scheduling and interpersonal and relational expertise are all aspects of parenting that easily transfer to coaching.”
Make It Easier
In most families today, women who work full-time also manage the childcare duties at home. “Coaching seems like a third shift,” says LaVoi.
LaVoi recommends that rec directors encourage co-coaching. Having two coaches can provide more flexibility and allows for a more accessible commitment. Letting coaches pick a practice day and time that works for them and their childcare needs is another way to make coaching easier for moms.
It also helps to rally the proverbial village. “Having a supportive cast, no matter who that is in your life” makes it easier, says Matthews. Older siblings could watch younger children during practices. Call in a favor from grandparents or friends. It’s a worthy cause.
Offer Women-Only Education
Just like women-only gyms, coaching clinics for women help them feel more safe and supported. “I think by nature women want to do things well and don’t want to mess up and are apprehensive to step into that role,” says Jacketti. It can be daunting to ask a question in a room full of male coaches as the only woman.
Jacketti makes sure her women coaches know they will have the resources they need. “We want to make it an environment where the coaches feel comfortable and have education and support to be able to get on the field and not feel lost,” she says. Mentorship programs where new coaches are paired up with seasoned ones are also effective.
Women Can Coach. Period.
The Tucker Center has loads of data on women in coaching. Their Game ON: Women Can Coach Toolkit is a great resource for anyone who wants to make changes on the field.
We’re knee-deep into summer and this is the point where the creative juices on keeping the kids moving and learning start to run dry—especially in this wacky Covid-19 scenario. If you haven’t signed them up for camp yet, no worries! There are still quite a few gems—both in-person and virtual camps—that still have space. Whether your little adventurer is into science experiments or exploring nature, you’ll find a spot. Endless summer, here you come!
Codeverse is the first fully interactive classroom for 1st-8th graders that is riddled with state-of-the-art technology. Your kids will learn to code, build apps, program cutting-edge gadgets and create video games, using a kid-friendly coding language, KidScript. They created a week-long virtual coding class for ages 6-13 that runs 2 hours/day that includes virtual field trips. At press time, there were openings remaining Aug. 3-Aug. 31.
Wonder + Scout is an art camp, nature camp, kindness camp and adventure camp—all rolled up into one—with a focus on creativity and confidence-building. This camp, meant for ages 5-12, offers small in-person class sizes and involves multiple mediums (wood + metal, movement + music, needle + thread, paper + pencil, canvas + clay, spoon + spatula) which deepens experiential learning. Classes available through Sep. 4.
If you prefer a virtual option, Spoolhouse Online has classes through Sep. 4, as well. Each week campers are intro'd to a different textile to practice technique, develop social-emotional skills and explore ways to be a change-maker. Camp includes daily interactive instruction via zoom, noon-1 p.m., digital resources and all materials.
Digital Media Adventures camps that historically take place at University of Chicago were cancelled for 2020. However, your kids can still take advantage of the programming virtually. If you have a kid that would love to be the next Walt Disney, makes music videos or prefers tinkering on the computer above all else. . . this program is for them. Digital Media Academy's STEAM Learning Lab is for kids ages 7-18 and features 10 online tech courses, broken out by age, and allows them to learn online anytime, anywhere.
Immerse the kids in nature and unlock their imaginations with interactive outdoor adventures among 1,700 acres of trees or in your own backyard. Morton Arboretum has both virtual and in-person camps through the first week of August that combine science experiments, creative play and art for ages pre-K through 8th grade.
Now 13 years into their business, The Kids' Table is at pro status with their camps so they were quite comfortable creating online versions along with in-person options. They offer hands-on cooking fun for kids ages 4 & up through Sep. 4. Registration is all week-by-week, so kids can join for as many weeks as they'd like. Best of all, these camps will inspire your kiddo to play a more active role in the kitchen (even cleanup!).
This hidden-gem playspace and cultural center entertains little ones with music programming, pretend play areas and educational events. They typically spread their outreach into the summer months, with camps that focus on the vibrancy and culture of Ethiopia, Nigeria, Kenya and Ghana. Kids can expect fun lessons in geography, history, conversational language, authentic meal cooking, games and more.
With Covid-19 in town, their normal camps are being replaced by virtual Yoruba camps that encourage kids 8-13 to learn conversational Yoruba quickly by combinbine online self-aced learning with instructor-led sessions in the comforts of home.
Steve & Kate's Camp
Steve & Kate's Camp
Things will look a little different this summer at Steve & Kate's camp—typically you can do one-day drop-in classes—but for this summer kids sign up for week-long sessions. They are still, as much as possible, allowing kids to focus on the things that interest them most. Groups will be smaller (10-15) that operate like mini-camps and campers will not interact with other groups.
Kids can dabble in multiple mediums, as Kidstreet Camps at Lillstreet offer a variety of programs for kids ages 3-16, both online and in-person through Sep. 4.
Top priority for this camp that's a dream come true for active kids is FUN! It's a total bonus that the programming keeps your child active, healthy, smiling—and perhaps ready for early bedtimes from happy exhaustion—during week-long camps Jul. 13-Aug. 21. Hi-Five Sports Camp Chicago is about so much more than winning or losing, it's about teamwork, playing hard and fair, making new friends and learning the power of camaraderie. The staff is filled with professional coaches, high school and college athletes, as well as experienced P.E. teachers who are ready to guide your kids through a positive, self-esteem-building experience.
Located at Naper Settlement, a 12-acre living history museum in Naperville, Camp Naper offers kids in grades 1-6 the opportunity to explore, create and imagine. Each week offers a different theme and adventure to embark on. Week-long camps scheduled through the end of July.
No way kids will suffer from summer break boredom at Chicago Botanic's camp. They'll be one with nature exploring a range of themes including art, cuisine and conservation. Week-long camps run from Jul. 27-Aug. 21.
Imagined by Amy and Dr. Ed, this tag team of super-friendly educators were truly thinking outside the box when they opened The Laboratory. Their goal is to bring books and imaginary worlds to life through science. Your campers will be immersed in magical worlds that follow a storyline that's moved forward by math and science, with virtual and in-person options available through Sep. 4.
This camp is really the perfect combination of learning and fun! This year, take advantage of their creativity with Galileo Anywhere virtual camps running through Aug. 7.
Bubbles Academy is solving summer mornings with their virtual summer camp, through Aug. 28, for ages 3-7. Register by the week for guided virtual classes, art activities and offline outdoor exploration for EVERY weekday morning.
Daily lesson plans are created for campers to achieve linguistic, cultural and educational goals. Children will have the unique opportunity to learn Spanish in a playful and enriching environment through total immersion of language while highlighting each student’s creativity and capacity to learn with projects, songs and activities. Camps offered virtually through the end of August.
Old Town School of Folk Music typically offers music, art, theater and dance camps where campers develop new skills, build friendships and explore their creativity while thinking independently, working cooperatively, and discovering their own place in the arts. While these camps are cancelled for 2020, they still have a variety of online courses kids newborn-12 yrs. will dig.
The Chicago Fire Soccer Club is hosting in-person camps at The PrivateBank Fire Pitch and in the 'burbs. These camps offer mini soccer fans the opportunity to learn from professional and experienced staff, regardless of their soccer ability in July and August.
It happens every year. Seattle kids are thrilled to be out of school for mid-winter break, but two hours into it they’re singing the “I’m bored” blues. Not this year, kids. Seattle is home to some of the best mid-winter break camps around. From art classes to science workshops to circus acts, there is a mid-winter break camp for every kind of Seattle kid. Scroll down and call now to book a spot—these camps fill up fast!
Arts Aloft
Arts Aloft
The weather might call for rain outside, but things will be sunny inside at Arts Aloft as your young artist explores "Art From Different Cultures." This year, the class will virtually go to India to learn how to draw the Taj Mahal, paint elephants on canvas and make clay. Then, campers will visit the Aztecs to make masks, explore the Art of Japan where they will paint on silk, learn calligraphy and paint Japanese landscapes. Finally, they'll venture into the Amazon jungles to learn how to draw and paint animals. Sign up to attend all four days or just a day or two. It's going to be a blast!
Arts Aloft 3302 E. Spring St. Seattle, WA 98122 206-920-2015 Online:artsaloftforkids.com
Arena Sports
Arena Sports
Who wouldn’t want to play dodgeball, soccer and capture the flag over mid-winter break? We guarantee the kids will have more fun at Arena Sports than they will being dragged to the office with mom or dad over break. Arena Sports has five locations for mid-winter break camp, including Magnuson, Redmond, Issaquah, SODO and Mill Creek.
Dates: Feb. 19-22, 2019 (Feb. 14, 15 & 18 at Redmond). Times: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. for full day; 1 p.m.-4 p.m. for half day. Early drop off and late pick-up available. Ages: 3-12 Cost: $59/day for full day camps; $39/day for half day camps
For kids who love to explore, experiment and discover new things, a week-long camp with the Pacific Science Center at the Mercer Slough Environmental Education Center is the perfect choice.
Legends of Polliwog Pond (Grades K-1 for $410) Campers will be encouraged to help their team members follow a map and find the treasures of the wetlands. As a group, kids will solve puzzles and explore their surroundings during this outdoor expedition.
Winter Survival (Grades 2-3 for $410) Kids will learn safety skills as well as how to use a compass, read a map, paddle the Mercer Slough waterways and build a shelter.
Trash or Treasures (Grades 4-5 for $460) Kid will bypass the rules of "reduce, reuse and recycle" and will go straight toward creating new things out of old junk, including making paper and creating crafts out of old t-shirts and more.
Dates: Feb. 18-22, 2019 Times: 8:45 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Afternoon extended care is available. Ages: Grades K-8 Cost: Varies. PSC members will receive an extra discount.
Mercer Slough Environmental Education Center 1625 118th Ave. S.E. Bellevue, WA 98005 425-450-0507 Online: pacificsciencecenter.org/camps
Play-Well TEKnologies - Seattle
Play-Well TEKnologies
There’s something about LEGOs that makes kids feel like belting out "Everything is Awesome” when sitting down to build and create. So what better way for your LEGO lovers to spend their free time over break than doing the thing they love most, creating with LEGOs at Play-Well Teknologies.
Super Hero Engineering with LEGO (Ages 5-8) Save the world with LEGO Super Heroes at this camp where Play-Well instructors will guide kids as they design, build and save a city while learning how ingenuity and imagination can solve just about any conflict.
Queen Anne Community Center 1901 1st Ave. W. Seattle, WA 98119 206.386.4240 Online: apm.activecommunities.com
Pacific Science Center
Pacific Science Center
If you've got a budding scientist who is considering a career in the industry, a week-long camp at PSC is guaranteed to curb mid-winter break boredom. Here's is what the science crew has in store this year:
Wild Ocean Adventures (Grades K-1 for $410) It's never too early to learn about marine animals and their environment while also creating an underwater viewer. Kids can also check out real shark teeth, learn the difference between saltwater and fresh water creatures and much more.
Science Myths Busted (Grades 2-3 for $410) Here's a great way for kids to learn about urban legends. During this mid-winter break camp, kids will test out some popular urban legends—can you really slip on a banana peel, if Pop Rocks are mixed with soda will they make your stomach explode? Find out the answers to these burning questions and more.
Duct Tape Challenge (Grades 4-5 for $460) Learn about the history of duct tape, test its strength, design a messenger bag using the sticky stuff and craft 3D works of art.
App Inventors with Computing Kids (Grades 6-8 for $590) Learn how to build games and solve real world problems using App Inventor while also learning fundamental computer science concepts.
Dates: Feb. 18-22, 2019 Times: 8:45 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Afternoon extended day care is available. Ages: Grades K-8 Cost: Varies. PSC members receive an extra discount.
This year's mid-winter break camps at St. Thomas offers two completely different types of experiences for kids in grades K-2 and 3-5.
Out of This World (Grades K-2 for $455) Junior astronomers will take a virtual spaceship adventure and learn about Saturn's rings, how to build a telescope and about the stars.
Grossology (Grades 3-5 for $455) Kids will have plenty of time to get slimy, squishy, icky and sticky exploring the messiness of science. It's a rare opportunity for kids to learn about digestion, dirt and decay while also learning about real biology and chemistry.
Dates: Feb. 18-22, 2019 Times: 8:45 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Ages: Grades K-5 Cost: Varies (includes lunch and snacks). Afternoon extended day care is available. PSC members receive an extra discount.
The Woodland Park Zoo is offering a unique mid-winter break camp this year for animal lovers. In addition to exploring Woodland Park Zoo in-depth, campers will explore the Zoo's world through fun activities, crafts and animal observations.
Myths and Legends Learn more than you ever thought possible about unicorns, dragons, Anansi tales, Aesop's Fables and more!
Dates: Feb. 19-22, 2019 Times: 9 a.m.-noon half-day sessions for ages 4-6; 9 a.m.-4 p.m. full day sessions for ages 5-9. Ages: 4-6 & 5-9 Cost: $230. Extended day program available from 4 p.m.-5:30 p.m. for $15/day.
Woodland Park Zoo 601 North 59th St. Seattle, WA 98103 206-548-2500 Online: zoo.org
Studio East
Studio East
For kids who like to sing, act and dance, mid-winter break camp at Studio East is going to be a blast this year. From musical theater to comedic acting, campers in grades K-6 will get to enjoy a mix of theater classes along with plenty of singing, dancing and art making. Both daily workshops and weekly camps are offered this year.
Studio Day Workshops (Grades K-6) Three daily workshops are available. Sign up for one or all three. Workshops choices:
Greatest Showman Workshop (Feb. 14) Students will spend the day acting, dancing, singing, and exploring circus arts with Studio East's highly skilled professional teaching staff in a fun and safe environment.
Harry Potter Workshop (Feb. 15) Act as witches, wizards, and fantastic beasts for a day of magical, theatrical fun!
Comedy & Combat Workshop (Feb. 18) Spend a day learning the art of comedy and combat from several different skilled instructors.
Heroes and Villains Play Creations (Feb. 18-22) Campers will be divided into groups by age and will participate as both playwrights and actors, performing an original script inspired by favorite heroes and villains.
Dates: Feb. 14, 15 & 18-22, 2019 Times: 9 a.m.-3:30 p.m. Extended care options are available. Ages: Grades K-6 Cost: $90/day for workshops; $395/week for Heroes & Villains camp; $105 for extended care
Studio East Training For The Performing Arts 11730 118th Ave. N.E., Suite 100 Kirkland, WA 98034 425-820-1800 Online: studio-east.org
Museo Art Academy
Museo Art Academy
Museo is offering both pottery and art camps for budding Michelangelos and Picassos over mid-winter break. The best part? Both are designed for kids ranging in age from 5-14, so siblings can attend together.
Pottery Camp This camp is more of a one-day workshop where kids will learn a variety of pottery-making techniques and will have time to experiment with them all, including slab and coil forms, surface design, glazing, firing and even the potter's wheel.
Art Camp Campers will have four days to create a variety of visual art forms and stretch their creative juices in the art of drawing, painting, printmaking and sculpture.
Art Camp Dates: Feb. 18-21, 2019 Art Camp Times: 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Art Camp Cost: $459
Good to Know: Both camps include a one-hour supervised lunch hour (lunch is not provided).
Museo Art Academy 300 N.E. Gilman Blvd., Suite 100 Issaquah, WA 98027 425-391-0244 Online: museoart.com
School of Acrobatics and New Circus Arts
School of Acrobatics and New Circus Arts (SANCA)
Kids don't need to run away to join the circus for mid-winter break. They can attend camp at SANCA instead! And since no previous classes are necessary to attend camp, it's a great place to start, if you have a kiddo who is interested in learning the art of the circus.
Circus Odyssey (Ages 6-9) Campers will develop body awareness through tumbling, balancing, ring passing and partner acrobatics.
Circus Apprentice (Ages 6-9) In this camp, kids will learn a variety of circus disciplines including acrobatics, aerial, object manipulation, clowning and tightwire.
Big Top Circus (Ages 10-17) After a week of developing skills, campers will put on a show for their families and friends.
Ringmasters (Ages 10-17) Campers will learn how to link individual skills into sequences and practice choreography.
Aerial Fundamentals (Ages 10-17) In this camp, students will practice on aerial rope, fabric, trapeze and sling with an emphasis on excellent technique.
Camps with Inclusion (Ages 6-17) This special camp will emphasize inclusion, social skills and circus skills.
Dates: Feb. 18-22, 2019 Cost: $475. $495 for Aerial Fundamentals and $300 for camps with inclusion. Ages: 6-17
Budding soccer players will want to take advantage of this ISC striking camp that will focus on different techniques for striking the ball. The camp will include workshops on driven passes, full volleys and half volleys as well as chipping, passing, first touch and learning how to bend the ball like Beckham.
Inspired by recent posts on Buzzfeed and Curbed about Atlanta’s unique vocabulary, we wanted to post our own addendum. Whether you are a non-native or new parent, here’s a lesson on the local lexicon.
Spaghetti Junction Everywhere Else: A Western film made in the 1980’s. In ATL: A tangle of on and off ramps where your kids always decide to test the limits of distracted driving.
Fellini’s Everywhere Else: Something belonging to Italian film director Federico Fellini. In ATL: The best pizza in town.
Ya’ll Everywhere Else: A contraction of the words “you” and “all.” In ATL: All you little people. It’s too hot to name individual names here.
All Ya’ll Everywhere Else: When the speaker wishes to include everyone being addressed. In ATL: Everyone. But now Mama means business.
Supper Everywhere Else: An evening meal. In ATL: What we feed our kids at 5 p.m. Because if we start the bedtime routine early, they might not notice we are putting them to sleep while the sun is still up.
Fixin’ Everywhere Else: The action of repairing something. In ATL: Getting ready to do something. As soon as we muster the energy in this heat.
The Garden Everywhere Else: A planned space set aside for the enjoyment of plants and nature. In ATL: A place where we take our children to see giant sculptures crafted out of vegetables and vegetation.
Top Hat Everywhere Else: A tall, flat-crowned, broad-brimmed hat. In ATL: A soccer club for girls you need to sign up for at conception.
N.Y.O. Everywhere Else: National Youth Orchestra In ATL: A way to tie up every afternoon from now ’til kingdom come.
Aquarium Everywhere Else: A container where water-dwelling plants or animals are kept. In ATL: Thank you Home Depot.
Downtown Everywhere Else: A city’s center or central business district. In ATL: The Aquarium.
Varsity Everywhere Else: A first-string team in school sports. In ATL: Where you feed your kids lunch when downtown.
Lunch Everywhere Else: A meal eaten at midday. In ATL: Chick-fil-A (when not downtown).
Smocking Everywhere Else: An embroidery technique used to gather fabric so that it can stretch. In ATL: How we wardrobe our wee ones. Easier to keep track of ’em if they all match, right?
Pink Pig Everywhere Else: A rose-hued porcine animal. In ATL: A shopping hazard that plagues you at Christmas.
Children’s Everywhere Else: Something belonging to someone who is not yet an adult. In ATL: Where you take your babes to get all better.
Northside Everywhere Else: The northern side of town. In ATL: Where babies are born.
Delta Everywhere Else: A mass of sediment usually of triangular shape at the mouth of a river. In the A: A means of traveling to places outside of Atlanta.
I.T.P. Everywhere Else: In The Pooper. See also “daddy’s office.” In the A: Inside The Perimeter. Where we stay unless headed to the beach or using aforementioned Delta.
What did we miss? Give us your thoughts on the local lexicon in the comments section below!
