ML Interest Tag: structure

The 8 Best Playgrounds to Visit in Portland

by Allison Sutcliffe

Clear your schedule and pack all the things, because your kids may never want to leave these amazingly fun playgrounds built with kids in mind

Portland parents know our sunny days are limited, and we don’t want to miss out on any of those rays. So pack a picnic basket, because these destination playgrounds were made for play. Not only will your kids love climbing, swinging and sliding till they’ve had their fill, these parks have other perks that keep kids playing all day long. We’re talking some of the best splash pads in Portland, skate parks, hiking trails, and more.

The Best Playgrounds in Portland for Kids of All Ages & Abilities

1. Westmoreland Park Nature Playground

Nature nerds of all ages will fall in love with this destination playground in the city that makes the concrete jungle fade into the background. It’s a spot where kids can climb boulders and logs in a safe and structured way. But it’s also got slides and an oversized sand play area that rivals even the best backyard mud kitchen. Plan for kids to come home dirty, or pack an extra pair of clothes along for this trip. There are also some trails the kids can explore and a nearby pond, so you might spots a few ducks, with ducklings trailing sweetly behind, in the summertime.

S.E. McLoughlin Blvd. & Bybee Blvd.
Portland
Online: portland.gov

2. Harper’s Playground at Arbor Lodge Park

After realizing that their daughter, Harper, couldn’t access most playgrounds from her wheelchair, the Goldberg family created the non-profit Harper’s Playground in 2010. Since then, the organization that’s committed to building amazing playgrounds where kids of all abilities can play has introduced Portland families to five inclusive playgrounds. Harper’s Playground at Arbor Lodge Park was the first. This destination playground features the three components that are the core of the organization’s mission: it’s physically, socially and emotionally inviting. That’s why you’ll find elements of nature interspersed between the playground elements that include swings, slides, teeter-totters and more. Don’t forget the sensory features like the water and sand stations and the beloved oversize xylophone that make this a favorite for everyone, but especially toddlers.

N. Deleware Ave. & N. Bryant St.
Portland
Online: harpersplayground.org

Related Stories: Play For All! Portland’s Best Inclusive Playgrounds

3. Dickinson Park

Tucked deep inside the Crestwood neighborhood of Southwest Portland you’ll find Dickinson Park. This park hosts a modern playground made by Landscape Structures, lots of wide open spaces for kids to freely run and play and a hill for tucking and rolling. While it doesn’t have bathrooms (come prepared), it does offer a futuristic modern play environment. If you have tiny climbers in your household this is a perfect park destination. They have suspended rings, a 10-foot net wall to scale, rope ladders and bars to hang from. Definitely a destination playground that’ll keep the kids busy all afternoon.

S.W. 55th Ave. & Alfred Ct.
Portland
Online: portlandoregon.gov

4. Pier Park

If you want to enjoy the outdoors in the middle of the city, head over to Pier Park. It’s enormous! They have everything from a skate park to a Frisbee golf course, picnic areas, a splash pad, a playground and an attached dog park. Pier Park doesn’t attract huge crowds and is tucked away in far North Portland. Plus, the accessible bathrooms and easy street parking make this an easy place to plan your next preschool meet-up or playdate. There’s a ramp going into the play area so all kids can play (read: stroller-friendly), sensory play elements, rope climbing structures, swings, spinning toys and a slide for kids to enjoy.

N. Lombard St. & Bruce Ave.
Portland
Online: portlandoregon.gov

Related Stories: The Best Picnic Spots in Portland

 

5. Washington Park Playground

Tucked away just south of the Rose Gardens you’ll find one of Portland’s largest playgrounds. The Washington Park Playground hosts all of your kids’ favorites. There are swings for tots and bigger kids, a sandbox and slides galore. The park has lots of space, too, so if you have high energy kids who love to run this is a great spot. You might want to be prepared to stay on your feet during this visit to make sure you can keep kids properly supervised. On those super steamy days there are some shady areas for kids to take a break from the sun. This spot is great for kids ages 2-5 and comes equipped with public restrooms. Don’t forget to hit your favorite Portland spots like the Oregon Zoo and Hoyt Arboretum to truly make a day of it when you visit.

1546-1666 S.W. Sherwood Blvd.
Portland
Online: portlandoregon.gov

Related Stories: 10 Jaw-Dropping Waterfall Hikes for Families

6. Murase Plaza Playground at Memorial Park

Located about 30 minutes outside of Portland near Willsonville’s library, you’ll find Portland’s oldest and largest park, Memorial Park. In the Spring of 2015 the park went through some big renovations and now has several new play structures and a 24-foot-long embankment slide. On the property you’ll also discover a splash shelter, historic barn and an interactive water feature. Kids might also enjoy the play volcano, climbing wall or eagle’s nest made from netting. If you go during the summer months, make sure to bring towels, bathing suit and maybe even a change of clothes because the cascading water feature can be extremely enticing, especially on a hot summer day. Since the renovation a large percentage of the new structure is now inclusive so kids of all abilities can play.

8100 S.W. Memorial Dr.
Wilsonville, OR
Online: wilsonvilleparksandrec.com

7. The Chelsea Anderson Playstation

The Chelsea Anderson Playstation at Marshall Park is part of a 14-acre community park that serves the downtown and central Vancouver area. Within this expansive park you’ll find ball fields, open lawn areas, a picnic shelter available for reservations during the summer months, a playground and public restrooms. The amazing playstation is where you’ll find all your kid favorites including slides, a log roll, a big arch climber, a balance beam, a spiral staircase, a fire truck structure, a nature area and so much more. The small tot and bigger kid play areas are at opposite ends of the park, so if you have both be prepared to be moving around a lot. This park is most certainly worth a trip across the river.

1015 E. McLoughlin Blvd.
Vancouver, WA
Online: cityofvancouver.us

8. Pirate Park

If you are looking for a land of adventure, we found the perfect spot. Go pack up the kids and head to Pirate Park. Formerly known as Bethany Meadows Parks this destination park is nestled in the Bethany neighborhood of Beaverton. You may have already guessed that this park has a special pirate theme. On top of a steep hill there’s an island lookout where your adventures can slide down and find themselves in a larger ship play structure. There are multiple slides, walkway bridges, swing sets, a sand-pit, and turf that resembles the ocean. Imaginations will go wild! While there’s not a public restroom there is a portable potty available. Keep in mind that this park has a reputation for being hard to find which is perfectly fitting with the pirate theme. Treat the whole experience like a grand adventure. You can’t park right outside the park so make sure you come prepared with everything you’ll need. You can access it by walking down the trail that meets NW Kaiser Road just past NW Wismer Street. Click the link below to take you a map of the area!

N.W. Energia Street, between N.W. Brandberry Dr. & N.W. Graf St.
Beaverton, OR
Online: thprd.org

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14 Creative Gingerbread House Hacks You Need to Try

by Gabby Cullen

Gingerbread houses. Kids love them, but unless you’re a master confectioner, sometimes this “delightful” holiday tradition can lead to frustration. This is why we’ve found game-changing gingerbread house ideas to make your task an easy one. From buying a gingerbread house kit to making a LEGO gingerbread house, these tips and tricks will help you make a gingerbread house. Keep reading to learn more. 

1. Design It First

Phillip Goldsberry via Unsplash

Any architect will tell you it’s a good idea to first lay out the design of your house. Kids can decide what candy they want to use, and where, which will help prevent running short on supplies mid-project. Psst! This is a great way to indulge in your Pinterest habit!

2. Use Graham Crackers or Cookies in Place of Gingerbread

using graham crackers instead of gingerbread is a good gingerbread house idea
Nathan Dumlao via Unsplash

We know, you're a traditionalist. But trust us, using graham crackers is a lot less expensive, and it's a great way to practice your skills before you move on to the "real deal." 

3. Make Something Else

Sommy Rhee

You don't have to stick with the house theme: get creative and consider something like a train or a plane, a grocery store or firehouse or even furniture! Gingerbread couch, anyone? 

4. Use Up Other Supplies

Randalyn Hill via Unsplash

If you are still trying to get rid of the Halloween stash, this is as good as time as any. Twizzlers, Tootsie Rolls, Banana Laffy Taffy, Twix (wait, you have Twix left?) and other trick-or-treat classics all work well. Clean out your cupboards and use up pretzels, marshmallows, cinnamon sticks, cereal and any other food item you think could fit the bill. 

Insider Tip: Pull out the peanut M&Ms and the Mike & Ikes in order to make a string of lights or two. Hungry Happenings will show you how to make it happen.

5. Buy a Kit

This might not seem like a big "hack" to you, but if you've ever been crazy enough to try to make gingerbread walls from scratch, you know you wish someone would have just told you to get the kit first. You don't have to stick to the kit-provided decor (see above re: Halloween candy), but having some basics and step-by-step instructions never hurt anyone. For something a little different this year, check out this amazing Oreo cookie house kit. 

Related: 17 Amazing Gingerbread Houses You Have to See to Believe

6. Use Hot Glue Instead of Icing

Amazon

You will need that royal icing to make snowy rooftops and general designs, but relying on it to hold everything together can create a little mayhem. Try using a hot glue gun to make the key elements stick. We like this low-temp glue gun that is great for kids. As an added bonus, it dries way faster than the royal icing.

Still need convincing? Head over to My Little Poppies for details.

7. Use Something for the Structure

iStock

Here's a secret you might not realize: some of those elaborate gingerbread palaces have cardboard or styrofoam supports inside! Use empty cereal or tissue boxes and the hot glue trick above to ensure your base is the strongest it can be.

8. Use Fruit Roll-Ups for Stained Glass Windows

a good gingerbread house idea is to use fruit roll-ups for windows
Walmart

This is a great trick for giving a stained-glass window effect, and it's easy, too! Just cut the roll-ups to slightly larger than the window and use icing-glue or hot glue to hold them in place (before assembling). This will also hide that interior "structure" box we mentioned above. 

We love these tie-dye style Fruit Roll-Ups for that easy stained glass look! 

9. Be a Minimalist

Ksenia Yakovleva via Unsplash

Yes, you can cover your creations in all manner of goodies and gumdrops. But sometimes simple white piping and a few pieces of well-placed candy give the perfect "snow-covered cottage" look. 

10. Go Small

tiny gingerbread houses
Erica Marsland Huynh via Unsplash

No one said a gingerbread house has to be huge to be amazing. A smaller house requires fewer supplies and is easier to hold together, which also means less frustration. You can make multiple small houses out of cookie bases, and line them up on a sideboard in the middle of a table for a festive centerpiece. 

11. Use Ice Cream Cones As Trees

using ice cream cones for trees is a great gingerbread house idea
Mae Mu via Unsplash

File this under “why didn’t we think of that?” Turn a classic sugar cone point side up, coat it in green frosting, and even dust it with powdered sugar “snow” for a woodsy outdoor scene.

12. Have your kids make a LEGO gingerbread house

bricks
Kelly Sikkema via Unsplash

If you don't want the sticky mess that a gingerbread house sometimes makes, why not make one out of LEGO? Using bricks you already have at home, use this how-to video from YouTube to make a gingerbread house that won't go bad. 

Related: DIY Gingerbread Playdough

13. Personalize your house with a photo.

Kate Loweth

Print out a mini-snap of your kids and make it so they are peeking out the window of your gingerbread house. Adds a fun personalized element and is super easy to execute. 

14. Be Patient

little girl using gingerbread house ideas
Allison Sutcliffe

You can build your house in a day, but you won't be able to do it in 20 minutes. Make sure you allow for the time the glued pieces need to try: to each other and/or to the base structure. With royal icing, you need at least 30 minutes to be sure the glue has really set. Going too fast results in sliding sides and cracked walls, especially when you start adding the weight of the candy decorations too soon. But hopefully, with the hacks above, you'll find a workaround for any of your common gingerbread house-making problems. 

 

 

 

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6 Epic Backyard Hacks to Use This Summer

By Jennifer Landis

 

The warm weather is finally here, and you know what that means: It’s time to pull out all your backyard hacks because the kids can go outside to play! Think of all the raisins and Cheerios that won’t be all over your carpeting—the spills, the scuffs, and the accidents which won’t be on your couch.

Packing up and going to the park is fun for the kids, but not always practical for you. Depending on the ages and interest levels of your children, going to the park can require an unlikely consensus, as well as a lot of gear you will likely only need if you don’t pack it.

It would be ideal if you could just send them outside in your backyard and let them have at it while you work on preparing dinner, cleaning up after the last meal, or getting some work done.

It doesn’t take a lot of space to make your backyard fun—just some planning and implementation. You can’t do it all, but you can do quite a bit with some simple changes. Work with what you have and try to make your backyard the best place for your kids to play this summer.

Organize a Treasure Hunt

Use some of the toys you have been stepping on inside your house as hidden treasures in a backyard scavenger hunt. Make this event big or small, depending on how many children you have or how many neighbor kids you have hanging around your house.

Hide the toys in places that are easy or challenging to find, depending on how busy or frustrated you want your children to be. Everyone can be a winner. Award them with a healthy snack or treat them to cookies and milk. Discuss the hunt and come up with new backyard games you can play.

Create an Obstacle Course

For older children who have some athletic ability, set up an obstacle course and have them compete to see who can complete it the fastest. Have them jump through hula hoops, duck under rope barriers and crawl through empty boxes. Use what you have around the house or in the garage. Just make sure the items are clean and nontoxic.

Prepare for arguments about who won the event, who cheated, and what was and was not fair about the obstacle course. It’s all part of the fun.

Set Up a Playset

Who needs the park when you can build your mini-park in your backyard? Playsets provide many activities in one connected structure. You can have a swing set, slides, climbing walls, forts, rope swings, or any number of attachments.

Pick out which activities suit your children’s desires and abilities, but make sure to account for the future. They grow up fast and will outgrow a playset designed only for toddlers. You don’t want to have to buy another playset in only a few years.

Get bucket swings for babies and toddlers, but use regular swings for school-aged children. Attach a tunnel the kids can run through and hide in. It’s up to you, but realize you can always add on and remove pieces as your children grow older.

Add a Sandbox

A sandbox is so much fun for kids, whether it is a standalone structure or a part of a playset. You can construct them from simple wooden boards or purchase specially designed sandboxes that look like colorful animals, cars, or spaceships.

Most home improvement stores sell sand designated for play, which is inexpensive and clean. Add a set of beach buckets and shovels, toy trucks, and any household containers, and your children will stay busy for hours.

Give Them a Chalkboard

If you have some wall space, even if it’s on a fence, give your kids a chalkboard to write on. Chalk is cheap, and kids love coloring with it. Pus, giving them a chalkboard means less chalk on your house or garage.

Tack up a chalkboard or buy chalkboard tiles sold in home improvement stores. Provide a bucket or other container for the chalk, so you don’t end up mowing over chalk chunks every week. Your kids can use chalk to make hopscotch boards, tic-tac-toe games, or for artistic endeavors. When they’re finished playing, you can easily wipe or sweep the chalk off, or you can wait for the rain to clear the boards and force your children to start over.

Build a Tree Fort

If you have trees, you can make your kids a tree fort. It can be simple — a few boards designating an area, or an elaborate dwelling built high above. It all depends on your budget, your intentions, and your abilities.

Take your children’s age into consideration before constructing a tree fort. Also, if you are concerned about their safety, start with a fort near a tree, not in a tree. They will enjoy this just as much, and you won’t have to worry about falls.

Attach a Tire Swing

Instead of a fort, you can use your tree’s limbs to attach a tire swing. Your kids won’t ever tire of a tire swing, although you may get sick of constantly pushing them. You can repurpose tires from areas where they litter a neighborhood or use your old car tires after you’ve purchased new ones for your vehicle.

Use sturdy nylon rope to attach the tire to your tree. Make sure the arc of the swing does not allow your children to smash into the house, other trees, and structures, or your neighbors’ property.

Whatever kind of backyard you have, make it the most fun backyard for your kids to play in. Use some of these ideas or come up with new ones of your own. Ask your children to help brainstorm. They won’t disappoint you with how creative they can be, even if their ideas may be unrealistic. You may not be able to dig an underground tunnel to their friend’s house, but you will find ways to make their backyard the best place to play this summer. Slather them in sunscreen and turn them outside for summertime fun they’ll never forget!

Jennifer Landis is a mom, wife, freelance writer, and blogger. She enjoys long naps on the couch, sneaking spoonfuls of peanut butter when her kid's not looking, and binge watching Doctor Who while her kid's asleep.  She really does like her kid, though, she promises. Find her on Twitter @JenniferELandis.

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Splish, Splash! Your Bay Area Splash Pad & Fountain Guide

by Christine Lai

The temps are climbing so it is time to get out of the heat and under a cool splash pad. We’ve got spray parks and fountains all over the Bay Area with the water on just waiting for your visit. Suit up the kids and slather on the SPF!

San Francisco

Two girls plays at a splash pad in summer
iStock

Mission Playground - San Francisco

Mission Playground was renovated and reopened in September of 2012. Through the renovation, one of the playgrounds most unique additions was the water garden that features ornamental fountains spraying mist and showering water for young children’s play and delight. The playground is also home to the City’s only outdoor pool.

Note: the water feature is operated on warm weather weekends between 11 a.m. and 5 p.m. 

19th & Linda

24th & York Mini Park - San Francisco

Splash on over to this gorgeous mini park in the Mission, which features creative murals and a wickedly wild snake structure that winds around a neat splash pad. As your kids play amongst the spouting water, you'll get to sit back and admire the colorful jungle painted on the wall behind them.

24th & York St.

East Bay

A boy plays in a splash pad
iStock

Central Park - San Ramon

We totally love this San Ramon playground for its umbrella-shaped water sprayer and also the faux creek bed where kids can wade around. The climbing structure is large with a big one for big kids and another for the tots. Parents will find lots of spots to sit and watch the fun or better yet, find a spot around the sprayer and dip your toes in!

12501 Alcosta Blvd.

Rancho San Ramon Community Park - San Ramon

In addition to an awesome splash pad that turns on at 11 a.m., this large playground has a zipline which kids absolutely love—pack a lunch and make a day out of it!

1998 Rancho Park Loop Rd.  

Emerald Glen Park - Dublin

After you hit up the Dublin’s Farmer’s Market, take your family for some water play at Emerald Glen Park. Rainbow arches bloom over the splash pad, shooting out sheets of water and there’s even a fun green tunnel that sprays out water like a showerhead. Then climb amongst unique rock structures that also double as slides. 

Note: The water feature is turned on from 11 a.m.-7 p.m. daily, June 15 through Labor Day. 

4201 Central Pkwy.

Cannery Park - Hayward
Operating from Memorial Day through Labor Day, the water feature at this park can be operated by pushing the red button. Ready, set, splash!

125 B Street

Blue Goose Park  - Brentwood

Does your child love the farm? Then take a drive to Brentwood for this farm-themed park complete with a barn play structure, a water tower that pours water onto the splash pad, and giant sunflower sprayers for larger than life barnyard fun.

1765 Adams Ln.

Check out nearby Rainbow Ends Park that also has water play features! 

Brentwood City Park - Brentwood

Enjoy a well-maintained old-school-meets-modern park at Brentwood City Park. Complete with water guns and a splash pad, a cute little clubhouse for toddlers, and a play structure for kids of all ages to enjoy, this cabin-themed park is adorable and has ample shade over the picnic tables.

790 2nd St.

Always Dream Play Park - Fremont
This all-abilities playground provides diverse play experiences for children of all abilities. Everyone will love the sand play area, drums and water play features.

Castro Valley Park Splash Pad - Castro Valley

Four parks and a splash pad? This playground is like the Disneyland of playground water play. Your little buccaneers can use the spray cannons to get their friends soaking wet, all while romping around the softly padded ground. Hours are 11 a.m.-6 p.m. Wednesdays, Saturdays, Sundays and holidays Memorial Day through Labor Day. 

18988 Lake Chabot Rd.,

El Cerrito Splash Park - El Cerrito

Beat the heat over at the El Cerrito Swim Center, where they have one of the most awesome splash pads ever. The large park is filled with all sorts of water gadgets, from colored buckets that tip surprise showers to the kids below, misting tunnels and all sorts of water jets. Don’t miss out on the cute cartoons that decorate some of the watering holes. 

Admission: $4/splash park only; 10 visit punch card $28/resident, $35/nonresident

7007 Moeser Lane

Meadow Homes Spray Park - Concord

Take a trip into the ocean with this fun open water themed splash park. Kids can spray each other with the cannons, run through the water under the shipwreck, avoid the shark, and climb the beach rocks. The water's on from noon to 6 p.m. , seven days a week in the summer from Memorial Day to September 24. When school is in session it is open 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday and 12 p.m. to 6 p.m. on weekends and holidays

1351 Detroit Ave.

Hap Magee Ranch Park - Danville

This quaint park was a former ranch with a barn facade at the entrance paying homage to its history. A small splash pad is motion activated with the water turned on between April 1 and September 30. On weekdays, the water is on from 12:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. and 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. on weekends.

1025 La Gonda Way

 

Peninsula

San Mateo Co. Parks

Maddux Park - Redwood City
Frogs here spit water with an on-demand push button that is on June 1- September 30 to help everyone stay cool while having fun.

Maddux and Kensington Rd

Stafford Park - Redwood City
Kids will love the small but cute spray pad adjacent to the playground. The water here is on between 10:30am-12:00pm and 2:00-6:00pm daily, June 1 through September 30.

King St. & Hopkins Ave

Stulsaft Park - Redwood City
This park, affectionately known as "Crayon Park" tops our list for fun spray grounds for the summer. Water sprays from massive crayons while kids run around on the soft ground. The water feature is on starting June 1 from 10:30 a.m.-noon and 2-6 p.m. through the end of September.

3737 Farm Hill Blvd.

Fountains at Stanford University

Two girls splash in a fountain at Stanford University
Christine Lai

Did you know that Stanford chlorinates its fountains and allow people to wade in them? It's a time-honored tradition for both students and toddlers to fountain hop at the Stanford campus and we can see why. There are a number of fountains to choose from with red hoop fountain and the sunken pool being our favorites. Insider tip: enter 380 Panama Mall into your GPS to find sunken pool. Some have shade, some do not and all have freezing cold water for splashing about. 

Mitchell Park - Palo Alto

Editor's note: The water feature is currently off with plans to re-evaluate on June 15. Check the website for updates.

Two frog statues make this splash pad look like a real pond. As kids race about on a slip-free surface, water shoots gently up to about the same height as your little ones. The water comes out with minimal pressure so that your kiddo won’t be surprised as they frolic and play. The awesome Magical Bridge playground is here, too, so be prepared to spend the day!

600 E Meadow Dr.

A boy sits at a splash pad in Ryder Park San mateo
City of San Mateo

Ryder Park - San Mateo

Editor's note: The water feature is closed due to the drought.

Head over to Ryder Park for a bucket load of good, clean fun. Geysers shoot water for the kids to dance around in and the sprinklers go off every 5 minutes so no matter where you are in the sprayground you're guaranteed to get soaked. Afterwards, play on the monkey bars or jungle gym, and stroll along the meandering paths to enjoy stellar views of the Bay.

1801 J Hart Clinton Dr.

South Bay

Seven Seas - Sunnyvale
This amazing pirate-themed park in Sunnyvale is one of our favorites! With both climbing and water fun, its the perfect combo to get through a warm summer day. Make sure to bring suits and snacks, because once you arrive, your little ones will never want to leave. Highlights include a mind-blowing toddler play structure, a water play/splash area (on from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.), a rope and metal climbing gym and a pirate ship that is accessible to kids of all abilities. Parking is a little tricky on the weekends as the attached lot fits only about six minivans, but street parking can usually be found not too far away.

1010 Morse Ave.

Ortega Park - Sunnyvale
Towering flowers that spray water will make kids feel like they've entered a giant garden. This is a popular spot where kids can wade through puddles,  and run through bubbling geysers. Need a break from the water play? Stop at the playground nearby to tackle the wall climbing structure or take a ride on the swings fitted for kids big and small.

636 Harrow Way

Lakewood Park - Sunnyvale 
Blast off into a world of fun at Lakewood Park! Families with kids of all ages will find something fun to occupy their summer afternoon from skating, basketball, slides, teeters and a rocking water play area. Little astronauts will enjoy getting sprayed by the spaceship and running around the padded ground decorated to look like outer space. Parking can get jam packed at this popular playground, so be prepared for a quick 2-3 block stroll. (Open daily, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.)​

834 Lakechime Dr.

Plaza de Cesar Chavez - San Jose

This park in the middle of downtown San Jose has a fun water feature that little ones love. Watch them be shocked as the water shoots up right from the ground!

194 South Market St.

Kids play at Hellyer splash pad
Christine Lai

Hellyer Park - San Jose
This San Jose park got a major facelift two summers ago and we are all over it. Kids love the new splash pad and waterfall arch (open anytime it is >70F) and parents love that this area of the park is shaded (which is often hard to find). After they dry off, the kids will love climbing the two 30-foot towers and the massive log climbing structure and spinning on the merry-go-round. $6 parking fee applies. 

985 Hellyer Ave.

Jack Fischer Park - Campbell

Editor's Note: The Campbell water features will not be turned on for 2022 due to the drought.

If your little ones have a lot of energy to burn, this is the place to go to. This park recently reopened after playground renovations and it is the place to be when the weather gets hot. The water feature has tunnels that are fun for kids of all ages to run through. And with large grassy lawns to run and roll around on, sand areas and play structures, your kids will go home dirty, and most importantly—tired. Bigger kids will enjoy riding their scooters or bikes down the park’s “mountain.”

1499 Abbott Ave. at Pollard Rd.

Marin/North Bay

Freitas Park, San Rafael

A toddler plays next to a splash pad
City of San Rafael

This San Rafael spot has a splash pad in addition to a climbing structure and restrooms. Find a spot in the shade to hang out while the kids cool off in the water. There's also a large grassy area nearby for picnics or to kick the soccer ball around. 

Online: cityofsanrafael.org

—Christine Lai & Kate Loweth

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How to Write a Limerick with Kids

by Amber Guetebier

Need an activity that doubles as a learning moment? Writing a limerick is actually simple when you learn the basics of its structure and it’s an excellent way to practice rhyming words with kids. While the origin of the limerick is unknown, many people believe it refers back to an Irish soldier’s song, “Will You Come Up to Limerick?”. Read on to get the simple tutorial on writing your own limerick with the kids!

1. Rhyme Time

A limerick has five lines.
The first, second and fifth lines all rhyme with each other.
The third and fourth lines rhyme with each other.

  1. To
  2. Who
  3. Lock
  4. Stock
  5. Glue

2. Feel the Beat

The first, second and fifth lines (which all rhyme with each other) have the same rhythmic pattern:

Ba dum ba da dum da da dum (8 syllables)

The third and fourth lines (which rhyme with one another) have this pattern:

Ba dum ba da dum (five syllables)

3. Try it out

  1. There once was a kid who was sad
    (Ba dum ba da dum da da dum)
  2. He made up a lie to his dad
    (Ba dum ba da dum da da dum)
  3. His pop knew the trick
    (ba dum ba da dum)
  4. And called it out quick
    (ba dum ba da dum)
  5. And now the kid’s ice cream’s gone bad
    (Ba dum ba da dum da da dum)

A famous example:

Hickory, dickory, dock
The mouse ran up the clock
The clock struck run,
And down he run,
Hickory, dickory, dock!

4. Get creative!

Want to make it easier on little ones? Try a “fill-in-the-blank” method. Just take away a few of the rhyming words and have them guess the answers.

There once was a _____ from the farm
Who had sixteen hairs on his ______
Dog gave them a pull
Cat laughed like a _____
They never meant him any ____.

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Swing On By These Uniquely Cool Chicago Playgrounds

by Maria Chambers

Urban myth: All playgrounds are created equal. Not true! Chicago and the ‘burbs have some that really go over the top to show you and your crew a good time. We’re talking unbelievable themes and play structures, plus cool add-ons like rope bridges, tire mazes and even faux Viking boats. Scroll through to discover local playgrounds that will stop you in your tracks.

For Brains & Courage: Oz Park Playground

Why will you go to this Wizard of Oz-themed playground? Because of the wonderful things it does! Walk the yellow brick road and explore the wooden tornado, then cozy up to statues of characters from the movie (you'll find them scattered throughout the park). Play, smell the flowers in the nearby Emerald Garden, and picnic on the lawn. What better way to ingratiate yourself with Dorothy and Toto?

2021 N. Burling St., Lincoln Park; Online: chicagoparkdistrict.com

For Climbing Fiends: Harvester Park Playground

Climbing a tree is a rite of childhood and you can do it here in a fun new way. Not only does this playground offer many play options, but a large climbable tree beckons as you arrive. Scurry on up and be sure to save time to play in the sand and control water flow in the nearby streams.

15 W. 400 Harvester Dr., Burr Ridge; Online: brparks.org

For Big Imaginations: Indian Boundary Playground

All aboard! The one-of-a-kind wooden climbing structures here riff on both Native American and train themes, and add up to a day of adventure. Pretend to be a conductor as you navigate maze-like tire and wood structures, reveling in new discoveries around every turn. Kids can also cool down in the water spray feature that has dancing bears and spray misters. 

2500 W. Lunt Ave., West Ridge; Online: chicagoparkdistrict.com

For Spiderman Fans: Festival Park Playground

Crawl into a web of intrigue. As you make your way up the suspended ropes, you'll aim for the middle where you can jump on a mini trampoline and make the entire structure bounce and sway. There are other playtime gems here as well – the multiple musical instruments and piano embedded into the ground (just hop around on the squares to play notes) will be sure to delight. And just steps away is a splash fountain with multiple water sprayers cooling all ages off in hot weather.

132 S. Grove Ave., Elgin; Online: cityofelgin.org

For Baseball Fans: Sheil Playground

Batter up! If you have a soft spot for peanuts and Cracker Jacks, head here for a playground with a special baseball touch: There's a huge baseball scoreboard chalkboard on the brick wall to the north. Bring chalk and make a game out of who can do the most climbing and sliding.

3505 N. Southport Ave., Lakeview; Online: chicagoparkdistrict.com

For Little Farmhands: Adventure Playground

Adventure Playground at Blackberry Farm in Aurora has it all—a rustic barn-inspired design, fun interactive features, huge slides and tons of maze-like passageways. It’s unlike any other playground we’ve seen. Hours (yes, hours) will fly by.

100 S. Barnes Rd., Aurora; Online: foxvalleyparkdistrict.org

For Viking Adventures: Veterans Memorial Playground

Pretend that you're setting sail on the choppy seas at this stomping ground. Its claim to fame is a large-size Viking boat structure that you can play on. Look below to see sharks and other sea creatures printed onto the soft play surface. There are also sandy “beaches” with additional play structures. This playground has many more options, including a large zipline that mom and dad can try.

55 E. Richmond St., Westmont; Online: westmontparks.org

For the Little Indiana Jones: Union Park Playground

Thomas G via Yelp

This newly renovated playground has challenging, modern equipment for all ages. From the large dome structure with rope climbing options to the swimming rope bridge over a ravine to the hanging rocking swings, this is climbing like you’ve never seen. Beware of the water sprayer—it looks innocent, but will soak you in just one run-through!

1501 W. Randolph St., West Loop; Online: chicagoparkdisrict.com

For Out-Of-This-World Fun: Edwin C. “Bill” Berry Playground

Playground Pointers

At this playground, you can pretend to be an astronaut and climb great to heights. The curved metal structure and tall climbing wall (with 3 options for different levels) will make kids, and adults, feel as though they are climbing as high as skyscrapers, with great views of Lake Michigan. Hidden water features, access to bathrooms and a beach, make this a playtime imagination destination.

31st Street & Lakeshore Dr., South Loop; Online: facebook.com

For the Climb: Maggie Daley

Take all other parks, give them a dose of steroids, and you have Maggie Daley Park. It's that cool. While there are certainly areas within the play structure you can climb, the Wave Hill is a 16,530 square foot play area with a rolling topography where kids can climb what feels like a mountain to them, roll down, and do it all over again.

 337 E. Randolph St., The Loop: Online: chicagoparkdistrict.com

— Maria Chambers & Mistie Lucht

Featured photo: Pexels

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It’s Beatlemania with This New Magna-Tile Collection

by Karly Wood

Calling all Beatle fans! Whether you’re an OG fan or starting out as a baby Beatle lover, this special collection from Magna-Tile is a must for your collection.

The Beatles Collection Magna-Tiles Structure Set comes with everything you need to create a Yellow Submarine, Abbey Road, Magical Mystery Tour Bus, a record player, Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds Kaleidoscope, The Beatles Album Collage, two different bass drums and display the Beatles Song Titles!

The set is an official Magna-Tile product and is compatible with all other sets. Each piece is made with SuperColor® Technology on both sides that equals bright colors and a scratch-resistant coating.

The Beatles Collection Magna-Tiles Structure Set comes with 28 small squares, 10 small rectangles, six quarter rounds, six small triangles, one hexagon and two chassis. You can pre-order the set for $134.99 on CreateOn or Amazon.

––Karly Wood

 

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Harry Potter New York Flagship Store Will Finally Open This Summer

by Erica Loop

The Wizarding World is coming to the Big Apple! The Harry Potter New York flagship store is opening Jun. 3—and this is a must-visit destination for Wizards and muggles alike.

The 21,000 square foot store will feature 15 different themed areas, all based on one magical aspect of the Wizarding World. With three floors of magical merch and interactive experiences, this new retail adventure houses an impressively awesome collection of Harry Potter and Fantastic Beasts-themed products.

To enter the store you’ll need to pass under an oversized 220-pound model of Fawkes the Phoenix. Along with this super-structure, you’ll find plenty of Instagram-worthy pic opportunities.

If your fam is into all things tech, download the Harry Potter Fan Club app to find interactive store adventures throughout the flagship retailer.

The new store also features two multiplayer virtual reality experiences, giving your kiddos the chance to interact with the Wizarding World in an imaginative way. The “Chaos at Hogwarts” and “Wizards Take Flight” VR adventures include magical creatures, broom-filled battles and so much more.

Along with the interactive experiences, you can also shop, shop and shop some more at this Potter-themed store. Not only can you pick up plenty of Potter products, you can also gift the Wizarding World fan with the ultimate present from the Personalization Area.

Sarah Roots, EVP Warner Bros. Worldwide Tours and Retail, said in a press release, “The level of artistic detail and quality of the design inspired by the movies means Harry Potter New York will bring a completely new shopping experience to the city. With over 1,000 Wizarding World props on display (including some authentic items which featured in the movies), the incredible theming, along with experiences such as photo opportunities and the fantastic range of products, there will be something special for every fan.”

The Harry Potter New York flagship store opens Jun. 3 next to the historic Flatiron building at 935 Broadway.

—Erica Loop

Photos courtesy of Harry Potter New York

 

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Haiku for You: Simple Poetry for Kids

by Amber Guetebier

The haiku is an uncomplicated form of poetry that kids will take to with natural skill. This traditional Japanese verse is just three lines. All you need is to remember that and the 5-7-5 rule. Read on for the how-to.

photo: cegoh via pixabay

Here’s the basic structure of the haiku:

1st line: 5 syllables
2nd line: 7 syllables
3rd line: 5 syllables

The biggest challenge is teaching them the difference between words and syllables and helping them count it out if they need it. Kids can count on their fingers as they try and figure out the perfect way to say it with words. Here’s an example:

1st verse:
It is ice cream time (5)

2nd verse:
Serve it in a cup or cone (7)

3rd verse:
Ice cream time is here (5) 

More examples:

Ride your tricycle
It is red and has a bell
Take it to the street

Mom is tired now
But soon she will rise again
No rest for mommy

—Amber Guetebier

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