With Easter just around the corner, chances are you’ll soon have some extra egg cartons on your hands. Put them to good use with these simple egg carton crafts for kids of all ages that extend far beyond Easter. From flowers to colorful chicks, these crafts that use egg cartons are a must this spring.
How cute is this egg carton craft from Red Ted Art? Not only are they easy to create, but they make great decorations for the kids’ Easter dinner table too.
This adorable idea from Jumbletree is so fresh and fun, and kids will love using it to play with their bunny pals. Making the burrow is simple, and making rabbits requires a few supplies you probably already have. Get the tutorial to make the rabbits here.
Create whimsical jellyfish puppets when you use this adorable design from The Art Kit. Egg cartons, paint, yarn, and googly eyes are pretty much all you need to create these under the sea creatures!
This craft uses a different part of the egg carton—the pointy part that touches the lid. All you have to do is cut out that piece, fill it with soil, and then top it with an adorable and tiny succulent. Attach string and hang for your very own hanging planter. You can find all the details at Journey Into Creativity.
Let your little Picasso get creative by making egg carton flower prints! This craft from Meaningful Mama is simply fun and perfect for some Spring crafting. Put these works of art in a frame, or get the kids to make some cards for grandparents—you can't go wrong!
A perfect craft for big kids, these Dancing Fish from Brainy Beginnings Network involve painting and a little sewing. Once assembled, make these gorgeous fish dance or hang them up as a super cute decoration.
Turn your old egg cartons into adorable ladybugs with this tutorial from One Little Project. Gather pipe cleaners, pom poms, and googly eyes, and get crafting.
Crafty kids will love making this flower bouquet canvas from Mod Podge Rocks. With brightly colored paint, a little glue, and a layer of sparkly Mod Podge, it’ll come together in an afternoon.
These cute chicks from Typically Simple can double as an Easter project—and they’re a super fun way to make use of egg cartons. They’re also easy to make with items you probably have on hand.
Thanks to Let's Do Something Crafty, your kids can snap the perfect pretend photo. Though this egg carton craft may need a bit more grown-up involvement, the kids can help out with painting, braiding the camera strap, or arranging the different elements of the "camera."
Create an entire underwater world with just four supplies. You’ve got the egg cartons; find out what else you’ll need at Fantastic Fun and Learning. One down, three to go!
Using egg cartons as building blocks? Pure genius. Once you’ve cut up your stash, have the kids paint it all in bright hues. After that, the possibilities are endless. Take a peek at the great tutorial for this craft that uses egg cartons at The Pinterested Parent.
These little guys are more cute than creepy and use up plenty of egg cartons. Parents, you'll probably have to handle the task of arranging the pipe cleaner legs just right. Get the how-to over at Pink Stripey Socks.
It’s a project that requires help, but your kiddo will be the queen or king of spring if you decide to tackle this cool flower crown. You can handle the glue gun, they can design their flowers. Find out how to make this egg carton craft over at Hello Wonderful.
Who-who-who's up for transforming an egg carton into a feathered friend? This clever craft from Art and Soul Preschool is super easy. If you have a decently stocked craft drawer you likely have the googly eyes, feathers and paint ready to go.
This egg carton mask craft from Teaching Every Day is great fun for a masquerade dress-up bash. You only need a few supplies, and it's easy enough that younger crafters can handle most of the steps. Customize with the kids' favorite colors or add feathers for additional panache.
How cute are these penguins from Green Owl Art? They're just the right size for little hands and don't require a lot of materials or time. Couple the activity with a viewing of Happy Feet, and you've got one eggcellent afternoon.
Here's a smile, crocodile! This green grinner from My Kid Craft is a lot of toothy fun. Best part? It requires three egg cartons—ideal for using up a big supply.
These adorable little robins are made from recycled egg cartons, and as a bonus, they have a little treat inside! Not only are they filled with your favorite candy, but they're also super easy to make. Check out the step-by-step tutorial from Almost Unschoolers here.
Let your kids learn their imagination is as deep as the ocean with this fun egg carton ocean craft. Use the container as a vignette, where little ones can paint with colors of the sea, then fill it with ocean creatures and plants. Get the details from The Imagination Tree.
—with additional reporting by Taylor Clifton and Karly Wood
Picture this: You’ve just endured a long flight from the U.S. (about 11 hours from SFO) and a small plane takes you from Nadi Airport on a journey over lush, green mountains and some of the most gorgeous turquoise-blue ocean you’ve ever seen. Your family vacation to Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort is just beginning when you arrive at Savusavu Airport on Fiji’s second-largest island. The smiling staff members are there to welcome your family and transport you to the resort that will become your home away from home for the duration of your stay in Fiji.
Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort is an eco-luxury property with a focus on cultural immersion and environmental education but in our opinion, the star is their kids’ club program—Bula Club. We’ll get into the nitty gritty details below, but trust us, it’s the main reason families return year after year.
Marine education and activities are also a huge focus at the resort and that’s evidenced by the fact that they have a marine biologist on staff and a dive center on the property. You can even get scuba-certified when you arrive to take advantage of the diving program while you are there. Night snorkeling, kayaking, and days by the pool are all on the agenda.
What’s it like to stay at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort?
Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort
The minute you arrive at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort (JMCR), you are welcomed with music and a tropical beverage before you are whisked off to the bure you will call home for your stay. Here you’ll get your welcome foot massage as you take in the sounds of the waves crashing offshore in Savusavu Bay.
Bures are wood-and-straw huts and there 25 to choose from with many different layouts available for families. You’ll find larger split-level bures where parents have a king bed and there is a section for the kids to sleep as well. A 2-bedroom layout includes a separate bedroom with attached bathroom that’s perfect when traveling with older kids.
No matter what layout you choose, they come with an outdoor deck and hammock that’s perfect for relaxing while the kids are at the Bula Club. You’ll love the indoor-outdoor feel of the bures where you can enjoy the sounds of the waves as you drift off to sleep.
What’s included with your stay at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort?
Jean-Michel Cousteau is an all-inclusive resort and your rate includes meals, non-alcoholic beverages, transfers from Savusava Airport, daily Bula Club for the kids, and tons of on-site activities like yoga, snorkeling, eco-walks, marine biologist talks, and so much more. Perhaps the best perk is the laundry service that will get your washed and folded clothes back to you in 24 hours. It’s a great way to keep your luggage to a minimum.
What is the kids club like at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort?
Just wait to be blown away. The Bula Club at JMCR offers care for kids from 2 months old up to age 12. There is a dedicated Bula Club just a short walk from the front desk where you’ll find water play areas, a pool with a mini water slide, sports courts, a kitchen and outdoor dining area, a playground, a zipline, a trampoline, and a hut where children can nap. It’s pretty much a kid paradise and we can understand why the kids love going here!
Care for babies and toddlers: For the littlest visitors ages 0-5, a dedicated nanny is assigned to each child for the duration of their stay. This nanny is available to provide care for the child from 8:30 a.m. -6 p.m. daily, after which one nanny is assigned per bure until 9 p.m. The nanny will stop by the breakfast table to make arrangements for the child for the day and find out what the family’s preferences are for napping, dining, and activities.
Care for kids ages 6-12: Kids in this age group are assigned a buddy during their stay. Buddy groups can have up to five kids and they have activities at the Bula Club throughout the day including games, water play, cooking classes, gardening, and so much more. They can participate in a Junior Chef Program where they visit the property’s organic garden, harvest produce, and assist kitchen staff in preparing lunch or dinner.
Kids can also participate in the resort’s amazing School Under the Sea Program. A daily schedule of activities centers around the day’s marine theme such as coral planting and sea creatures. Activities for the day can range from snorkeling, educational activities, a rainforest and waterfall tour, a local school visit, crafts, and learning about aspects of Fijian culture. Kids who complete the program get a “graduation” ceremony and a t-shirt to take home with them.
The Nannies/Mannies & Buddies: During our time at the property, we could really see the bond that formed between the nannies/buddies and their charges. Families told us that they returned to the resort year after year and their child would request the same buddy each time. There were even a few tears shed by kids when leaving the resort and having to say goodbye to their buddies. It really is a magical program with very caring people on staff who have worked at the resort for many years.
What activities are available at Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort?
You can stay as busy or as relaxed as you’d like at JMCR. Every evening you’ll receive an agenda for the next day’s activities that could be anything from beachside yoga to night snorkeling. We recommend booking an afternoon at the spa and getting the Koko Rapture massage where you are massaged with fermented cacao paste and wrapped in banana leaves. It’s just as heavenly as it sounds!
Fijian Culture: There are many opportunities to learn about Fijian culture throughout your stay. The resort offers weekly village visits where you can meet local Fijians, purchase crafts, participate in the cava ceremony, and learn about their traditions. On-property activities during our stay include basket making, a Fijian lovo meal, and a cava ceremony amoung others.
Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort
Marine Activities: Savusavu Bay offers an underwater world that is waiting for you to explore when you visit Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort. On the day we arrived, we enjoyed lunch and then immediately changed into swimsuits to head out on the afternoon’s snorkeling excursion, just a 10-minute boat ride away. The resort’s marine biologist accompanied us in the water and used a writing board to tell us the names of fish and creatures we spotted.
Scuba diving is available on-property for an additional fee and you can even get scuba-certified if needed. Other water activities included kayaking, sailing, paddleboarding, and our favorite—night snorkeling. We even got to see some bioluminescent creatures when we turned off our underwater flashlights!
Throughout our stay, the marine biologist presented talks about the coral reefs, sharks, and fish that make up the Fijian waters. She took us on a walk to the mangroves at the end of the property to talk about their importance and showed us how the property is actively replanting the mangroves (this is a favorite activity of the children).
Getting to Fiji
Fiji Airways flies direct from LAX (10.5 hours) and SFO (11 hours) to Nadi Airport. From there you board a much smaller plane for the hour-long flight to Savusavu Airport where you are greeted by friendly JMCR staff who will transport you to the property. The only real tricky part of this journey is navigating from the international terminal to the domestic terminal at Nadi Airport but the resort has someone there to meet you and walk you over (and the airport is quite small). If you have a lengthy layover at Nadi Airport on your way home, it is worth it to pay to get into the Fiji Airways lounge as it had lots of seating and offered a nice buffet and bar selection.
One of the most impressive things about our visit to Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort was how long the staff members had been working there—some of them over two decades! We really felt like we were joining their community when we visited and we heard many stories about how the property supported their staff members through difficult times, truly valuing them as people and not just employees. It was clear that the property placed a strong focus on supporting not only the staff but also the local community, which is rare for resort properties like this.
We could see why people rave about what a magical place Jean-Michel Cousteau Resort is, and why they return year after year.
Winter in San Diego is, gasp, as much fun, if not more so than it’s warmer counterparts. From exploring tide pools at their most accessible to tasting your way through the city’s best hot chocolate, there’s so much more to San Diego than surfing (although still pretty amazing)
Sure, Dec. is filled with Santa meet and greets and dazzling light shows, but that’s just the beginning of your only-in-San Diego winter bucket list. There are plenty of things to do in San Diego to keep kiddos entertained long after the holiday rush. From exploring the best tide pools in SoCal to treating the kids to the most delicious hot chocolate in town and beach bonfires with special guests, check out our must-do list for how to have an amazing time with family, all winter long.
The Best Things to Do in San Diego in the Winter
1. Treat your little to a local field trip to the Museum of Making Music. Here you can explore instruments from the past 150 years, listen to how musical styles evolve and even try some of them out for yourself.
2. Burn off some energy by letting little groms warm-up and drop in at one of these cool skateparks.
3. Enjoy the magic of the underwater world at Birch Aquarium during Seas ‘n’ Greetings—a month-long holiday celebration featuring SEAsonal activities for the whole family from Dec. 1 to 31. Everyone will be amazed seeing how the Birch Aquarium transforms into a winter wonderland.
4. Teach your kids how to give back to the San Diego community. Check out all the ways your family can volunteer from home all winter long.
5. Lace up your skates and go ice skating by the sea. You and your SoCal kids will get a stunning view of the Pacific as you try to master your scissors.
7. Satisfy that sweet tooth craving by warming up with the best hot chocolate San Diego has to offer. PS: Don't miss Brew Coffee Spot's seasonal Gingerbread, Eggnog, and Peppermint Mocha Lattes for the grownups.
9. Take your pint-sized sailors on a whale-watching excursion to spy gray whales as they pass San Diego on their annual 10,000-mile round-trip journey from the Bering Sea to the lagoons of Baja California.
10. Did you know the ideal time to tidepool is now through Feb.? In addition to forgiving winter tides, we'll also see King Tides—meaning higher than normal high tides which also results in lower than normal low tides—you'll get a chance to explore tide pools in ways that are typically unaccessible during the rest of the year. Want to upgrade your tidepool experience? Book a tidepooling adventure with trained naturalists who will show you how to tread lightly during your visit and help you discover the wonderful world of tide pools. Before you go, check out our full guide to the best tidepooling spots in San Diego.
11. Surprise your family with a beach bonfire. Purchase a package through the beach genie and have all the accessories delivered to the beach. Through December you can even opt to have Santa come by your beach fire and sprinkle some kringle on your party.
18. Winter usually means snow (at least for most parts of the country) and while it's rare to snow in San Diego (snow flurries were last seen in San Diego on Feb. 14, 2008 around 1,700 to 1,800 feet with the last measurable snowfall in city fell on Dec. 13, 1967), you can find the white fluffy stuff just a short drive away. So whether you're into skiing, snow tubing, sledding, or just want to throw some snowballs, you can fulfill your winter fantasies with the best places to play in the snow near San Diego.
19. Speaking of wintery delights, Disney's Frozen, will be in town at the San Diego Civic Theatre, Jan. 18-29. This can't miss Broadway musical features the songs you know and love from the original Oscar-winning film, plus a dozen new numbers by the film’s songwriters.
These top toys of 2022 according to Amazon are about to give you major gift inspo
Even if your kiddo hands you—ahem, Santa—a detailed list of what they’re hoping to find under the tree this season, we’re always looking for holiday gift inspiration. Those Dear Santa lists can be fickle and change constantly, and some kids don’t even make one, assuming Santa just knows what they want. After all, he should. With all those factors, it’s good to have a master list of the best of the best gift ideas for inspo. Enter the list of the top toys of 2022, according to Amazon!
These best-selling, high-rated goodies are almost fail-proof presents! After Santa, who would know better than Amazon? It’s also the perfect reference for relatives who are completely at a loss for gift ideas for their nieces, nephews, cousins, grandkids, and more. We suggest linking your loved ones to this list with a little winky emoji and we’ll take it from there. These are some of the top toys of 2022, according to Amazon. You’re about to give Santa a run for his money!
Crayola Light Up Tracing Pad
With one graphite pencil, 12 short colored pencils, 10 tracing sheets, 10 blank sheets, and a light-up surface, this one is great for artistic kiddos!
Amazon Review: "I purchased this to draw applique patterns for quilts, and it works great. I also let my grandson use it to draw when he visits.So I bought him another one for home. Heck, I enjoy tracing pictures with it too. I think any age will enjoy this light table." —Patti
It's about to get real mystical in here! They'll create their own fortune-telling pet by casting a spell and watch as their Magic Mixie appears through the mist!
Amazon Review: "First thing my granddaughter said when she opened the box "it's so beautiful" LOL. Soooo happy I got this for her." —Lori De Los Santos
Well, hello, old friend! Our childhood fave got an upgrade with more bulbs, a brighter display, and six design templates! Recommended for ages 4+.
Amazon Review: "This is a modern version of the old classic that I played with as a child. Back then, it was one of my favorite toys. Now the new version is one of my granddaughter's favorite toys! This is much more portable than the old version since it runs on batteries and is smaller (but not too small.) The batteries are lasting much longer than I expected too. Another fun feature is the ability to have the lights do different things, like blink, etc. Another satisfied customer." —Sunshine Girl
With 5 different levels of interactive game play, 4-key and 6-key modes, a Bluetooth connection so they can connect their favorite tracks, and non-slip mat, this is sure to be a screen-free favorite!
Amazon Review: "This was a perfect gift for a very active 3 year old. It was as simple as removing it from the box, adding batteries, and then watching her dance around. A very simple yet entertaining product." —Randy
We're actually a little jealous we didn't have these when we were growing up. This set comes with 53 rods and 28 multi-link connecting spheres, plus a design guide! Depending on the amount of space and number of kiddos, you may want to buy more than one for some epic creations.
Amazon Review: "My kids love building forts so I decided to try these. Since they are 9 and 12 I decided to get 2 so they could both fit inside. They think it is so cool, they've created a little lounge inside. You can make different shapes. I got the glow in the dark one and in my opinion it isn't very bright, so I would buy the slightly less expensive one that isn't glow if you wanted to save a little money. Overall this is a great buy!" —Gabrielle
We already love all things LEGO, and this set takes building to the next level with everything they need to create kinetic creatures using LEGO Technic bricks and papercraft!
Amazon Review: "My son is an engineer and grew up with Lego... now he has a son... so you can see where that's going! I did some research on Gear Bots, and I believe they'll have some educational fun with this for more than a year or two. Remote control has also figured in our lives for many years, so that box is ticked as well. The quality of Lego is such that its indestructible and adaptable. Another great Amazon price." —Anita Fox
Let your littles learn to help others and tap into their imagination at the same time! JJ's head, elbow, knee, or foot light up when hurt, and he lets you know. Press his tummy and JJ will sing a clip of The Boo Boo Song while he gets all fixed up with tools from the included check-up bag!
Amazon Review: "Our son absolutely LOVES this JJ Boo Boo doll. It sings his favorite boo boo song and he loves that he can he’s JJ’s boo boos and make him feel better. He also loves that it comes with a stethoscope, thermometer and syringe so that he can do a full check up on JJ just like he gets done when he goes to the doctor. This doll is so soft and cuddly also which means I don’t have to worry about him carrying it around everywhere he goes. I highly recommend this doll! Your Cocomelon lover will LOVE this too!" —Brodie
No tools or glue needed; just their imagination! This is the perfect present for creative little minds that's sure to provide hours of artistic fun.
Amazon Review: "This was a great jewelry kit for my 7 yo granddaughter. I bought it for her birthday and she loved it. The pieces were large enough for her little fingers to handle and she immediately made a bracelet and a necklace for her cousin. I would say it was a big hit for this little girl." —TexasGirl
AquaDragons let kiddos bring an underwater world to life! These are real little sea creatures that look like adorable tiny dragons when hatched. Kids place the eggs in the underwater habitat, and after 48 hours, they watch them come alive. The set comes with everything they need to nurture a whole generation of AquaDragons!
Amazon Review: "I really like this product. The AquaDragons grew and got really big in the tank. The Tank lights up with 2 AAA batteries. I use rechargable batteries. No issues there." —Aurelio Bermudez
Not only does this RC car do all the regular moves, it can also roll, rotate, flip, and more! It's rugged enough to drive off-road thanks to its shock absorption, and strong-grip, anti-skid rubber tires.
Amazon Review: "We bought this just for little fun & it has been just that, our puppy even gets a kick out of chasing it. The tires do come off which is nice to clean when we move inside to play, we can clean them. Battery life is fairly good. Charges quickly." —Jess
How sweet is this little garden set? Littles learn how to build, sort, and match with these eco-friendly, BPA-free pieces. Super easy to clean, too!
Amazon Review: "This is an amazing fun activity for the little ones to enjoy. This create your own garden keeps my little one happy and engaged for a good amount of time. We have a real garden at home that she loves to take care of and when we are not there this gives her the same sense of fun and responsibility." —Jordan Agbayani
It can be a challenge to buy a gift for more than one kiddo, or even a whole family, but we're pretty sure this bluetooth karaoke system checks all the boxes!
Amazon Review: "We had this in our vacation house and the kids loved it so much I had to get one. It was here when we got home and is great especially the fact that it connects to your phone via Bluetooth!" —Amazon Customer
In case you're wondering why you haven't seen these before, it's because they're only available through Amazon! Twist up and start creating; no peeling or sharpening required.
Amazon Review: "These are wonderful. For us it was definitely worth every penny because our child went through broken crayons like crazy. Even the name brand crayons just don't seem to hold up like they use to. And I was hesitant because I figured they must not have as much crayon as regular crayons, but I looked up the size of regular crayons and the size of these twistable were the same. Very pleased with purchase and most of all our child is so happy with it." —Leah
A princess/mermaid/fairy dress-up set with a Barbie? What. A. Win.
Amazon Review: "My daughter loves it. She loves changing her from a mermaid to a princess (with her dress) to a fairy! It’s like 3 dolls in one." —Veronica
A combination marble run, logic game, and STEM toy, the Gravity Maze contains 60 challenges from beginner to expert. This is really a genius gift!
Amazon Review: "Little did I know, my nephew already wanted the Gravity Maze after playing with it at his school. I found this by searching for the best STEM gifts of 2022, and it doesn't disappoint. It's well constructed, and offers play in addition to practicing strategy and forward-thinking. Highly recommend!" —Lindsay
There's not much the Ruko can't do, to be honest. 10 pieces of music, 24 hand movements, 14 body movements, and 10 expressions available for programming, rechargeable, multiple control options...you really have to see the Ruko to believe it.
Amazon Review: "We bought this for our 10 year old son for Christmas. He has played with it often and loves it. He especially likes to record funny messages for Carle to repeat back to him. We had an issue with charging and customer service helped us get it worked out right away. Great toy and great service!" —There'n'backagain
For the little outdoor lover, the Light-Up Learning Camper has songs and phrases in addition to multi-color lights and music!
Amazon Review: "This is outstanding work by Fisher Price. There are multiple ways for a toddlers to use their imagination. My grandson is obsessed with vehicles of any kind and also the outdoors. When the camper is open there is a hammock so it is easy to pretend to go from outside camping to inside RV camping. The only thing I do not care for is the weird Little People figure that is included." —Mimi
10 obstacles and 50ft slack line, climbing net, ladder, wheel, warrior gymnastics, and monkey bars—this is the ultimate in gifts for active kids!
Amazon Review: "My daughter absolutely loves her new obstacle course! It was easy to assemble, (as long as you know how to use ratchets), and is very sturdy. I ended up needing to contact customer service and they were incredibly helpful and went above and beyond for us. Highly recommend!!!" —Emily
If they can't get enough Lightyear, this is the set for them! Designed for ages 4+, this is quick to build and teaches them how to craft a LEGO scene, setting them up for LEGO love of a lifetime!
Amazon Review: "Great set for kids. Easy to build with easy instructions. Plus it's Buzz Lightyear. Also, an easy set to collect (three pieces total)."—Nick
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Because spending time with grandparents is always a treat, these skip-gen play ideas make it extra special
Whether Grandma and Grandpa are visiting for the day or an extended weekend, there are plenty of exciting things to do with grandparents in Atlanta. No matter what the reason, planning something extra special should be at the top of your list. Treat them and the kids to fun activities that are out-of-the-box and let grandparents take a trip down memory lane. Atlanta has so much to offer when it comes to creating new memories, but these seven activities top our list of things to do with grandparents, no matter when they visit.
Georgia Aquarium Spend the day and visit the largest aquarium in the United States, the Georgia Aquarium. Everyone will love the amazing aquatic life, such as Common Bottlenose Dolphins and Whale Sharks that swim by in the tanks. Plus, when the grandparents need a break, the 4D theater is a great place to sit and relax for a bit. Immerse yourself in the underwater world from an animal point of view.
Stone Mountain Park Breathe some fresh air and visit Stone Mountain Park. There are countless things to explore in the 3,200-acre park and many of them run at "grandparent speed". The whole family can take a scenic train ride around the mountain or complete an adventure course on the treetops. Make a weekend of it and stay overnight and see one of the world's largest laser light show featuring a grand fireworks finale.
Catch a Movie What better way to end a fun-filled day than with your favorite movie under the stars? Another easy thing to do with grandparents in Atlanta, all you need to to is grab your blankets and popcorn, and get cuddled up with the grandkids for a movie night outdoors. There are also food trucks and other fun activities kids and grandparents can enjoy before the movie starts.
Head to the Plaza at Colony Square to catch the last a Movie on the Square for the season. Mark your calendar for October 1, 2022.
Take a Tour Enjoy a self-guided tour of The Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park. Located right in the center of Atlanta, including the birth home and church home where MLK's father and grandfather served as ministers is a must-see. The tour stretches several blocks and covers around 35 acres. During your visit, see the D.R.E.A.M gallery, or sit in the World Peace Rose Garden to reflect on MLK's legacy when everyone needs to slow down and rest.
Martin Luther King Jr. National Historical Park 450 Auburn Ave., N.E. Atlanta Online:nps.gov
The Atlanta Botanical Garden Covering over 30 acres, The Atlanta Botanical Garden is located in Midtown Atlanta. Each visit is always different, with the changing exhibits in the garden. We love the fact that this garden has something for everyone, from the splash pad to the Origami in the Garden exhibit. Treat Grandma and Grandpa to lunch at The Longleaf, and sit on the patio overlooking parts of the garden when everyone needs time to refuel.
Insider Tip: Want to plan something extra sweet during the weekend of Grandparents Day? Plan to spend an afternoon getting chocolate-covered. Here the family can visit a tree where the chocolate comes from and learn about the chocolate-making process. Of course, there will be a chance for chocolate tasting and creating chocolate-covered creatures.
1345 Piedmont Ave. N.E. Atlanta Online:atlantabg.org
Candytopia-Atlanta This sweet exhibit is a charming place that is an interactive experience where you can eat your way through Candyland. Everything is made of candy, and there are plenty of photo opportunities so you can savor more than the sweets at your fingertips. Think of Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory as you can score a Golden Ticket during your visit. After you have tried all of the candies, old and new, you can take a load off in the marshmallow pit. This place is so magical; you may even see a unicorn.
Buckhead Landing 3330 Piedmont Rd. N.E., Space 17 Atlanta Online:candytopia.com
Mountasia Mountasia is big family fun. Take a trip down memory lane or around the track with some fun competition with go-karts. As one of the largest family fun centers in the Atlanta area, it's one of our favorite things to do with grandparents in Atlanta. There is miniature golf and an arcade with over 70 state-of-the-art video games, including old-school classics like Starship Troopers and Dance, Dance, Dance. Maybe the grandparents can even show the kids a thing or two.
If you are like us, you are likely swimming in cardboard boxes. Fear not! There are loads of ways to get crafty with them from crafting them into Halloween costumes to turning them into amazing forts. Scroll through, find your favorite cardboard box crafts, and get that packing tape and scissors ready!
By now, your kids have perfected all of their indoor daredevil tricks. The couch has officially become a landing pad for adorable human rocket ships. And you can’t get from one room to another without tripping over an elaborate obstacle course. Yep. It’s officially time for a vacation that moves all of that energy to the great outdoors. And there’s nothing better than the sand, sea, and sunshine of Florida’s Panama City Beach. Check out PCB’s awesome outdoor adventures for kids (and kids at heart!):
Ready to start planning your next adventure? Get everything you need at VisitPanamaCityBeach.com
Ride the Waves
Cruise around the Gulf of Mexico on a guided or unguided jet ski tour. This family-friendly activity is a great way to explore the area’s gorgeous emerald green waters— refreshing salt water spray in your face, not optional! Be sure to zip over to Shell Island, a stunning barrier island off the coast. Discover the natural beauty of its sand dunes, wildlife, seashells, and of course, playful dolphins. And if you’re up for trying a new watersport, learn paddleboarding techniques from a skilled instructor.
Set Sail… From the Sky
For a high-flying thrill, take a parasailing ride with your crew—no experience necessary. Soar above the beach with Adventures at Sea for a breathtaking look at the white sandy coastline, pristine waters, marine life and “tiny” beachgoers and boats below. Up to three people can be accommodated, so you can gently glide through the sweeping panoramic views together. Be sure to let the captain know if you want to stay dry or get your feet wet!
Go Off the Beaten Path
Head into the backwaters on an airboat—the only type of boat that can transport you into a remote maze of creeks, islands and marshes. Wild Thang Airboat Tours take you speeding into the wild, where alligators, dolphins, manatees, snakes, stingrays and birds dwell. Keep a lookout for old sunken boats (and anything else that may lurk below!). For an adventure after dark, book an hour long ride for a glimpse of the “red eyes” of alligators under the crew’s spotlights. Children must be at least two years old to ride.
Explore an Underwater World
Get immersed in aquatic life and scuba dive with the Dive Locker. Twelve year olds and up can learn the basics, gear up with a divemaster and head to St. Andrews State Park for an awesome introductory excursion under the water’s surface. Swim with new pals like octopus, hog snappers and plenty of other spectacular tropical fish. Who knows, you may come across some pirate’s treasures, too. Have more time? Ten year olds and up can become certified scuba divers following a three-day course. If you’re not ready to take the plunge (literally), a dolphin tour by boat is another awe-inspiring way to see your favorite sea creatures.
Go Wild at the Waterpark
Slide, splash, swim, float and even relax! A fun-filled tropical setting isn’t just reserved for the beach. Shipwreck Island Waterpark is a family favorite, thanks to the water slides, lazy river, 500,000 gallon wave pool, tipping bucket that dumps tons of water on enthusiastic patrons, and kiddy area with shallow pools galore. Bottom line: there’s something for every age and stage at this action packed theme water park.
It’s All Fun and Games
Head to one of many amusement parks in the area. Check out Cobra Adventure Park for a ride on The Dragon Wagon, a “kids-only” roller coaster. Race go-karts on four levels or play mini golf. Families with little ones love the Kids Kingdom of pint-sized rides (located right next to the beach) at Emerald Falls Family Recreation Center.
Learn more about these adventures and all of the other ways you can explore in PCB at VisitPanamaCityBeach.com!
We’ve been reading for months now through all kinds of wonderful new books and, thanks mostly to our kids, have narrowed down our top picks for the best children’s books of 2020. From picture books to bedtime stories to graphic novels and chapter books for young readers, all those hours of reading added up to this vetted, mom-and-child-tested list. Read on for our choices.
Board Books & Books for Early Readers
My Favorite Color: I Can Only Pick One?
Candlewick Press
Fans of Aaron Becker's previous stunning board book You Are the Light will love the newest exploration of colors from the Caldecott-Honor-winning author-illustrator.
New York Times-bestselling and NAACP-Award-winning illustrator AG Ford comes together with Tameka Fryer Brown in their new collaboration, Brown Baby Lullaby. Gorgeous illustrations are paired with the sweet lullabye of parents caring for their baby. Using both Spanish and English, this book makes for the perfect bedtime story.
Help your kiddos learn the colors of the rainbow in addition to fine art with the Andy Warhol What Colors Do You See? board book. Using Warhol's signature style and love of color, this simple book brings his masterpieces to your little's fingertips in a fun and easy way. Available Jan. 21.
From activist, professor and father Ibram X. Kendi, this lovely picture book will help you and your kids learn about cultivating a more equitable world by following nine simple steps. We love this new and powerful read; it is filled with thoughtful rhymes and beautiful, bold illustrations.
Out in time for Pride Month (June) this early reader board book is the perfect way to engage kids, especially if you can't attend a Pride Parade this year. "1 Parade in the month of June/2 DJ's spin fabulous tunes." Michael Joosten's rhyming prose is perfectly accompanied by Wednesday Holme's bright illustrations.
Llama Llama is back! In the newest book, your fave character can't find his funny. Where could he be? Kids will love lifting the flap to help Llama find his bedtime bestie. Available Jan. 14.
This adorable new book series comes in a set of four: Equality, Happiness, Imagination and Truth. Each one features a famous philosopher (think Socrates and Simone de Beauvoir) and has vivid, fun illustrations any baby will love. There are also thought-provoking questions that are appropriate for the toddler set, and each book will inspire your tiniest readers to consider their place in the world.
In the sixth book of the This Little series, This Little Dreamer: An Inspirational Primer brings some of the most historic figures to light for young readers. The sweet illustrations share the tales of Mahatma Gandhi, Mother Theresa, Martin Luther King, Jr. and more with age-appropriate facts that are sure to inspire. Available Jan. 14.
The third book in the Tiny Travelers series takes readers on a journey from San Juan to Vieques. Created by a team of parents with multicultural backgrounds, the series promises a celebration of diversity with hidden treasures on every page. Great for kids of all ages, the interactive book is packed full of beautiful illustrations and rhyme-based storytelling.
From the beloved brand Highlights comes a new set of picture books for kids. One, in an A-Z format, this book will show kids all the different ways they can bring a little kindness into the world. Think helping with chores, delivering cookies to a neighbor, standing up for what’s right and more. The other does the same in counting form and featuring a diverse cast of kids and beautiful illustrations, these are both excellent books to read aloud in a classroom or at home before bedtime.
Though we’re not together we’re never truly apart, because you’re always on my mind and you’re always in my heart. This is what a mother tells her child as she leaves for work each day. This lovely board book perfectly captures the sentiment that many women feel about being a working mom. The lyrical text takes us through a mother’s day away, demonstrating that although she’s working hard, her child is always on her mind and always in her heart. Available Mar. 10.
Explore the adorable tiny houses of woodland critters in this interactive board book by Nicola Slater. In it, Alex—an orange tabby cat—visits one house after another, collecting new friends at every stop. At the end of the book, the rabbits, dogs, hedgehogs, squirrels, and bears join Alex outside to play catch with a touch-and-feel big, red ball.
Introduce your toddler to the legendary E.T., with this adorable interactive board book. Help E.T. find the right word to describe what going on in the picture by turning the wheel at the side. From what he likes to eat to what he wants to do with the phone, this sweet dose of nostalgia will be enjoyed by everyone.
Little mole is sad, so his mother takes him out of his dark, underground burrow to search for hope. They find it in flower bulbs that will become daffodils, trees that will grow green leaves in the spring, and a chrysalis where a butterfly will soon emerge. Close your eyes and imagine what's to come, Mama says, showing little mole that there's always hope when you're in a dark place. This sweet lesson shows kids how to endure their own challenges and find hope around them.
Just breathe.... This book provides a guided meditation that shows kids how to focus on their breathing and stay calm even when they have troubling thoughts in their head. Illustrations show how thoughts can feel—flitting like butterflies, stomping like monsters or popping like bubbles—while reassuring kids that even scary thoughts pass and that mindful breathing, just ten deep breaths, can put us at ease.
Jane Ormes' lift the flap board book all about the forest is a perfect addition to any baby or toddler library, and one that teaches more than just shapes or colors. A daddy deer is called a stag, a mommy bear is called a sow, a baby is called a kit. The flaps reveal the different names for baby animals, all accompanied by the woodlandy-cute illustrations that set it apart.
Hello, Elephant!; Hello, Bear! and Hello, Whale! Board Books
Candlewick Press
This large, sturdy board book format with lots of flaps will keep curious kiddos entertained while they learn all about the animals of the African savanna in Hello, Elephant; creatures of the ocean in Hello, Whale and forest friends in Hello, Bear! Author-illustrator sam Boughtons images are reminiscent of Eric Carle, in the best way possible.
Picture Books We Can’t Stop Staring At (& Reading)
Can Bears Ski?
Candlewick Press
This cheerful new book (released in November 2020) introduces readers to deafness and hearing aids in a totally kid-friendly way: Little Bear is having trouble hearing, but doesn't understand what is happening. He just keeps hearing funny phrases, like "Can bears ski?" The author, Raymond Antrobus was diagnosed with deafness at age seven and the illustrator, Polly Dunbar, became hard of hearing in her '20s. The result is a lesson in empathy that aims to destigmatize deafness and an excellent addition to any library, especially a classroom one.
Written by Smiriti Prasadam-Halls with luscious illustrations by David Litchfield, perhaps the author and the publisher both had a premonition about just how important this book would be in 2020. The message is clear, as Dolly Parton will tell you, "If you want rainbows, you gotta' put up with the rain." This beautiful book rhymes its way through a magical world that is full of thunder and clouds and kindness and clarity. This is a great bedtime book, too and though its written for ages 3-7, older kids will get some comfort from it at night as a girl and her fox companion move away from a sorrowful past, through challenges, and into a new tomorrow. Sounds about right, no?
Mexican-artist and author-illustrator Flavia Z. Drago's stunning debut picture book full of bright illustrations that bring to mind gorgeous papel picado paper-cuts as we adventure through Gustavo's world. Gustavo doesn't like to talk much and has trouble making friends, but soon he learns his other gifts are something the world (and his friends) need.
There are a lot of tough times for kids in life, and moving away or losing a friend to a move can be really hard at any age. This beautiful book by Newbery medalist Meg Medina, illustrated by Sonia Sanchez, helps children process more of those big feelings and remember that friendship is in our hearts. This is also a helpful book during these times when playdates are few and far between.
The second book from the author of Jamie Is Jamie: A Book About Being Yourself and Playing Your Way focuses on teaching kids gender-neutral pronouns. Jamie goes on a walk with Bubbie (grandma) and along the way has to correct Bubbie when she assumes genders about some of the people they meet. Includes a special section for parents and educators and makes an excellent gift for any classroom.
Claude is a celebrity alligator and the mascot for San Francisco's California Academy of Sciences. His story started almost 25 years ago in Louisiana, where he hatched out of his egg to discover he looked different from the other hatchlings. They were green and Claude was white. The other hatchings avoided him, and his color made him vulnerable to predators. So Claude went to a special zoo that cared for alligators where he lived in a pen by himself. Now he was safe—but alone. Find out what happens to Claude in this wonderful new book by Emma Bland Smith.
With a can-do attitude, Cor Cor shows that with enough determination anything is possible. Cor Cor's readers learn about places around the world, as he explores exciting destinations from his wheelchair. Whether admiring the northern lights in Iceland or meeting kangaroos in Australia, no adventure is off-limits.
As a wheelchair user that has visited all seven continents, co-author Cory Lee always wanted to read a book that he could relate to while growing up. Collaborating with his mom, co-author Sandy Gilbreath, they created this children’s picture book to show that the possibilities for all children are limitless, regardless of their abilities.
Part fairy-tale, part woodland adventure, author-illustrator Lucy Fleming will transport your kiddos to a forest family of creatures work together to make one little, tiny person's dream comes true. Celebrates the power of generosity and helping those who may have an issue they are dealing with (Ella can't go out in the day). It also makes an utterly beautiful bedtime read.
With bright watercolor illustrations, this book tells the story of how an imaginative lion named Guion shows his friends how to see magic in their everyday world. Inspired by the author's three kids, including her oldest with Down syndrome, the book shows readers how to change their perspective and find a little magic in their own lives too. The book ends with suggestions for fun activities for families to play together, building on the themes in the book.
The shoulders on the drag queen go shimmy, shimmy, shimmy...all through the town.
Fans of Drag Queen Story Hours around the country will love this book from Lil' Miss Hot Mess, one of the first Queens to host DQSH. Bright, playful illustrations by Olga de Dios add the perfect touch to this update on the classic "wheels on the bus" song that aims to teach little kids everywhere...there's nothing wrong with a little swish in your step.
Mom and author Sara Olsher wrote the book she wished she could have given her own daughter while they navigated her own divorce. Written with clear words and bright illustrations, this book shows kids that even though divorce is scary, it is something lots of families get through. Olsher's life mission is to help little people through tough times, including how to talk to kids about a parent's cancer diagnosis and the coronavirus.
Clarissa the cottage doesn't want to be adorable, she wants to be scary like her parents, a witch's hut and a creepy castle! Told in lyrical stanzas, Clarissa embarks on a journey to learning to be her very best self.
A beautiful, empowering picture book from Meena Harris about two sisters who work with their community to effect change, inspired by a true story from the childhood of the author’s aunt, Kamala Harris, and mother, lawyer and policy expert Maya Harris.
This story about a little girl who is very close with her grandma and the girl's experience as her grandma's dementia progresses. It is an excellent child's eye view of this often confusing and heartbreaking disease and a great tool for parents and caregivers to engage kids in the conversation of aging, dementia and alzheimers.
Geisel Honor Winner Kara LeReau teamed up with Caldecott Medal winning illustrator Matthew Cordell to introduce readers to "the newest star in the circus: Baby Clown!" Frieda and Boffo clown's little make-up ready clown is adorable, but he's also not very happy. Laugh out loud as Baby Clown cries his way through the circus acts, diaper changes, feedings and nap. As any parent can attest, though, the show must go on. Find out how on Apr. 14.
The true story of Mohammad Alaa Aljaleel, a man who, in the midst of the on-going Syrian civil war, managed to find and offer safe haven to dozens and dozens of abandoned pet cats. A somber but important book that offers kids’ a glance at the effects of war, this inspiring tale is accompanied by wonderful illustrations.
"When work is done, it's time for FUN!" Explore the forest, the canyon, fields and more beyond the job site where these adorable dinosaur-equipment characters find out that fun can mean work (and work can be fun!). Written and illustrated by Michael Whaite.
Meet Cornelius J. Sparklesteed. He has a secret. He’s a unicorn!! He also lives in Hoofington, where lots of nasty rumors about unicorns get passed around. They’ve gone so far as to announce that unicorns aren’t welcome. So, Cornelius designs fabulous hats to conceal his secret, and along the way, garners the admiration of friends and even the mayor! This shiny, sparkly book is a delightful read, and more importantly, shows that sometimes, different isn’t just weird, it’s AWESOME.
Little Meg has a unique skill; she can build almost anything out of cardboard. She enjoys the maker spotlight until one day she meets Simone, who shares the same abilities. This book follows their antics as they try to out-construct each other. DIY directions for some of Meg's favorite creations are included at the back of the book.
When debut author Angela Joy set out to teach her children their first Black History lesson she was not expecting her preschooler to say, "But Mama, we're not black, we're brown." It was then that she realized that she wanted her children, and all children, to understand that being Black was about culture as much as color. And so Black Is a Rainbow Color was born. Vibrant, stained-glass like artwork by Coretta-Scott King Award-winning illustrator Ekua Holmes accompanies Joy's poetic text as we join a little girl on a journey to discover all the wonderful things that Black is.
"Black is the robe of Thurgood's back. Black are the trains on railroad tracks. Black are the eyes on salted peas. Black are the shadows of ooo-old magnolia trees."
Includes a suggested playlist as well as an expanded explanation of the historical references in the text to allow parents to explain Black history to their kids. It's an exceptionally designed, written and thoughtful new book appropriate for kids of all ages and ethnicities. We can't wait to see what Joy does next. Available Jan. 14.
Ages: Suggested age, 4-8, but we think even older kids can benefit from this book due to the important historical talking points in the back of the book
This incredibly compelling book written by Thomas Harding and illustrated by Britta Teckentrup tells "The True Story of a House, Its History, and the Four Families Who Made It Home" and follows the history of a house taken from a family by the Nazis. Though it could end there, the author continues to tell the story of the new families who came to live in the walls and make it a happy home over the years. A deeply moving reminder of the sorrow of loss and the hope of new beginnings.
Fred is bound to make school less boring. The creative boy decides that his teacher is a robot, and takes his friends on a fantastical journey that only the wildly imaginative mind of a child can do.
While this book is technically a Kickstarter campaign (ends April 19), we just had to share. A beautiful collection of 30 stories about kids from all over the world, it includes fun facts and activities that help bring each culture to life. Available now for pre-order, books will be shipped in November—which makes this a perfect holiday gift.
If you read Jessica Love's Julián Is a Mermaid, a beautiful book about gender identity and acceptance, you'll love Julián at the Wedding. Just as gorgeously illustrated, this time we find Julián and his abuela heading to a wedding where Julián is in the wedding party. He makes a new friend and together they enjoy the beauty and enchantment of a magical wedding. A wonderful view of how young children see love and another homerun for acceptance and individuality that every family should own.
Author-illustrator Deborah Marcero brings us a beautifully illustrated picture book about the beauty of ordinary things and the magic of young friendships. Little bunny Llewellyn is a collector of ordinary things, "like buttercups, feathers, and heart-shaped stones" along with cherry colored sunsets and the shadows of summer with his friend, Evelyn. But when Evelyn moves away, they stay connected in a most magical way. Each page delights with "jars" of illustrations your children will love discovering. Available Jan. 21.
The first picture book from renowned astrophysicist Ray Jayawardhana is a delight. Set as a poem, Child of the Universe is a sweet meditation on the fact that from the literal stardust that makes our bodies to the atoms that connect us, we are all connected to the universe and to one another. (Available March 17)
Your child's Spanish will be muy bien thanks to this picture book that introduces common Spanish words organized by categories including animals, body parts, food, colors, numbers, household objects and more. The words are introduced with kid-friendly images that make learning both informative and enjoyable.
This remarkable biographical picture book, written by Lisa Robinson and illustrated by Rebecca Green, introduces young readers to one of the trailblazing women of the circus arts! In revolutionary France, a young girl named Marguerite dreamed of becoming a tightrope dancer, and she dazzled from the young age of nine, going on to garner the admiration of crowds. She became known as Madame Saqui. This is her remarkable story!
If the adorable illustrations from award-winning artist Miguel Ordóñez (Jimmy Fallon’s Your Baby’s First Word Will Be Dada) don’t draw you in, then the funny, lively prose and the smattering of Spanish words thrown into this twist on a classic fairy tale by author Susan Middleton Elya will. There’s even a glossary of words at the front for kids to reference.
The dreamy watercolor wash of a magical undersea world comes to life in Anna Pignataro's The Heart of a Whale, the story of a whale whose beautiful song calms all the aquatic creatures and whose lonely sigh calls out to another whale across the sea. Enchanting, magical and incredibly sweet. Available Jan. 28.
This just-published book by Janet Sumner Johnson, illustrated by Courtney Dawson, is for every kid who has ever had a parent too busy to read a bedtime story. When it happens to Shailey, she takes matters into her own hands. She fires her dad, posts a help wanted sign and the offers start rolling in…from her favorite fairytale characters. Find out who winds up reading bedtime stories to Shailey when you sit down to read this cute book with your crew.
Fred's Big Feelings: The Life and Legacy of Mister Rogers
Simon & Schuster
This picture-book biography by Laura Renauld, illustrated by Brigette Barrager, reminds us all of one of the purveying messages from Mister Rogers Neighborhood and Fred Rogers' life: it's okay to have feelings. The book takes us from his childhood finding his feelings through the piano, his grandfather McFeely's unconditional love, the feeling of gaining confidence in high school by being compassionate, through the feeling that children's television was conveying the wrong message: and Fred's feeling that he should change it. This book teaches kids not only about Fred Rogers life and legacy, but also to express and embrace their own feelings. Available Jan. 14.
Ages: 4-8 (but we grown-ups really enjoyed it, too!)
Helena Ku Rhee's wonderful new picture book tells the story of little Daniel, whose parents work as night janitors, usually while he sleeps. When the babysitter can't make it, Daniel has to go along with his parents to the big glass building they clean. Little does he know it is the land of the Paper King. Inspired by Rhee's own parents, this is the story of hardwork and imagination, and a reminder to be kind. Beautifully illustrated by Pascal Campion.
The democratic process comes to the jungle with this debut picture book by Brazilian authors Paula Desgualdo & Pedro Markun and illustrators André Rodrigues & Larissa Ribeiro. Yes, Lion is the King but when his selfish behavior causes his subjects to dissent, they decide it's time to hold an election. Each candidate campaigns with their unique attributes: Sloth, Snake, Monkey and more all bring something new to the table. A great way to teach kids about elections in a non-partisan way.
Penned by Sharon Langley, the famously photographed African-American who rode a carousel at Baltimore's Gwynn Oak Amusement Park in 1963, this beautifully illustrated book tells the story of peacefully fighting for equality.
Katarina's dreams are bigger than city life. The ten-year-old has it in her heart to become the best: a prima ballerina. Despite not having any training, Katarina sets out to win a coveted spot in an international dance camp that is sure to make her a start.
"When someone opens a door to you, go forward." Young Frances Perkins spent her life heeding the wise words her grandmother taught her as a little girl. Kathleen Krull's The Only Woman in the Photo tells the story of Frances Perkins, the first woman to ever sit on a presidential cabinet. Perkins became Franklin D. Roosevelt's trusted advisor, and it is Perkins you can thank for such things as child labor laws, unemployment insurance and social security. Illustrations by Alexandra Bye bring the life and times of this persistent, fearless trailblazer to life.
Olympia, Washington-based paper artist, Nikki McClure, released this beautiful book about the power of creativity and community at the end of February. It follows a family for a day in a small town, wondering with each turn of the page, what these hands will make. Will they make a fiddle? Fire from a stack of wood? How about a beautiful bouquet or a house for swallows? McClure’s recognizable art showcases the potential of each possible creation in the most compelling way.
A beautiful picture book based on the life and journey of who most consider the father of modern art. This lovely work follows the life of the painter Paul Cézanne, who never gave up, even when the Parisian critics rejected his work, never gave up his mission to be a great painter, and was always evolving in style and technique. And yes, he really did have a parrot!
Geraldine and the Most Spectacular Science Project
Geraldine is a spunky second-grade student who loves science but sometimes has a hard time paying attention in class. When her teacher announces the science contest, she’s determined to take the prize. With lots of hard work, a pile of everyday stuff, and tons of confidence (she doesn’t let her fellow students' whispers get her down), Geraldine creates something truly amazing. A great story for kids who like to dream. (Available Feb 28th)
Beautifully illustrated with charcoal, ink and watercolor, this sweet story about the friendship between a young girl and a bison evolves into a tender tale of loss and the passage of time. Ultimately, the girl learns that the bison will always be in her heart, so this may be a good story to help a young reader understand the loss of a loved one.
Learn the true, amazing story of young Peter Wetzel, whose family attempts to escape East Germany in 1979 in a homemade hot air balloon. The story explains, in kid-friendly terms, about the differences between East Germany and West Germany and how his family and close friends prepare to risk their lives for the promise of a better one.
Introduce your modern kid to the world of reporting and writing for an independent newspaper. Join Nellie, the new kid in Bear Creek, Maine (and the daughter of two newspaper veterans), as she strives to uncover who’s behind the recent attacks of vandalism. She’ll need a whole crew of journalists, who might, in the end, end up being new friends too.
The Spirit of Springer: The Real-Life Rescue of an Orphaned Orca
This newly released book, by author Amanda Abler and illustrator Levi Hastings, details the real-life rescue of Springer, a northern resident orca found swimming alone in Puget Sound in 2002. The book immerses kids in the thrilling details of the heroic rescue and even follows up with Springer in the present.
This alphabet book stars women artists including iconic painters like Georgia O’Keefe and Frida Kahlo but also puts the spotlight on lesser-known artists like Mirka Mora, Judith Leyster and more. Each page has a short explanation of the works that define each artist (for example, legendary photographer Dorthea Lange is X is for EXposure), and if older kids want to learn more, the back pages have extended biographies. Beautiful illustrations complete this lovely picture book that's bookshelf worthy.
Exploring the Elements: A Complete Guide to the Periodic Tables
Phaidon
We're not gonna' lie, with all of this at-home schooling parents can use all the help they can get and this smart, well-designed book will give any kid (and their parents) a little guidance when it comes to the basics of chemistry. Written by Isabel Thomas and illustrated by Sara Gillingham. It's like the textbook you wish you'd had as a student.
A ghostly, fantastical tale written and illustrated by Irish author P.J. Lynch, this picture book for older readers is full of ghosts, love and an underwater world that is both haunting and beautiful. It reads like an ancient story someone once whispered to you as you walked the shores, and yet is completely new.
The subtitle says it all in this brightly illustrated (William Luong) book by author Mifflin Lowe: Real Stories about Black Cowboys, Women Sharpshooters, Native American Rodeo Stars, Pioneering Vaqueros, and the Unsung Explorers, Builders, and Heroes Who Shaped the American West.
Engaging, full of awesome pictures and rich with historic info every kid (and their parents) should learn.
Not your average reference book, author Jules Howard presents a thorough investigation of the wonder of bones in this hardcover volume with insanely-amazing illustrations by Chervelle Fryer, who manages to be both scientifically accurate and aesthetically pleasing at the same time. Seriously, you'll wish you could frame this whole book. The added bonus? Kids will learn all about bones and skeletons, from horses to flying foxes to penguins. The book is arranged by "type" of animal: jumping, flying, running, swimming, etc. A must-buy for any kid's reference library.
A seek and find book with a beautifully simplistic and minimal approach, Jorrien Peterson's new work is a can't miss. Kids will learn about nine unique biomes (naturally occurring communities), what makes them special, be challenged to find specific flora and fauna and answer a question at the end of each "lesson."
Shannon Hale and Dean Hale's beloved character is back to try to solve the "big problem," a noisy stomping giant. The eighth book in this New York Times bestselling series, the illustrations by LeUyen Pham are just as important to telling the story as the Hale's well-crafted words. A perfect first-chapter book series.
This graphic novel written by Matthew Cody and illustrated by Yoshi Yoshitani features young Zatanna, daughter of a magician but don't be fooled. It's a very in-depth story about a young girl—mourning her mother and being bullied in school—who embarks on an utterly fantastical adventure through a house of secrets, full of riddles, enemies, unexpected friends and the afterlife.
Dav Pilkey's latest in the Dog Man series is full of laughs, as per usual. This time, Dog Man turns in his badge and resigns his post. Will he get back on the force? Read it to find out!
This fun graphic novel follows a tween Diana (aka Wonder Woman) on the island of Themyscira. As the only child on the island, she faces bouts of loneliness and ends up trying to make a friend, with unintended consequences. Featuring strong female protagonists and vivid illustrations, this is a great choice for early elementary-school kids.
Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls: 100 Immigrant Women Who Changed the World i
Rebel Girls
This wonderful collection by Elena Favilli, the third in the Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls series, covers famous immigrant women from Josephine Baker to Rhianna. In the signature style, it is beautifully illustrated by women artists from around the world and full of relatable stories and facts for rebel kids to learn about these fierce and awesome women.
Retired pirates! Secret Codes! Witches! Sea Monsters! If that isn't enough to entice you to read this heavily illustrated chapter book, the fact that Warren the 13th is full of puzzles and riddles just might. In this adventure, we find Warren managing his family's floating hotel and planning his 13th birthday party. In this final adventure for Warren, part of a three-book series, Author Tania Del Rio's and illustrator Will Staehle bring us one of the most entertaining and unique books of 2020.
Ages: 10-12
Buy it now. $12
Chapter Books We Love
Tristan Strong Destroys the World (Tristan Strong Book 2)
Penguin Random House
Part of Rick Riordan Presents, this book blows just about every other book of its kind out of the water with humor, history and some seriously amazing and heart-touching themes including children facing trauma, in a way that is perfectly relatable to young readers. Tristan, who has returned from his previous epic adventure to the land of African-American folk heroes (Alke) with PTSD, is forced to return to Alke—this time to rescue beloved grandma! Themes of resilience are interwoven artfully with loveable heroes (like Gum Baby, Tristan's other world sidekick) and larger-than-life characters. Our editor's son, who poured through every Rick Riordan and Rick Riordan Presents book written to date, said this is by far one of his favorite books of the year.
Aru Shah and the Tree of Wishes (Pandava Series, Book 3)
Penguin Random House
If the Tristan Strong is our editor's son's favorite this year, Aru Shah is a close second. Another series in the Rick Riordan presents, now 14-year-old Aru Shah returns to the Otherworld from books 1 & 2, based on characters and the landscape from the epic Hindu poem, the Mahabharata, this time to help a captive clairvoyant. The richness of voice and humor is present throughout.
When a child goes through a divorce, many things change. When ten-year-old Bea's parents tell her they are getting a divorce, they present her with a list of the things that will not change, including their love for her. Follow Bea as she navigates her big feelings as her dad remarries, and things definitely change, yet always returning to that list of things that don't, which author Rebecca Stead navigates artfully and age-appropriately.
The eagerly awaited new book from Rick Riordan (and the final in the Trials of Apollo) series does not disappoint with all of your favorite characters and monsters together for an epic conclusion, masterfully and hilariously written by one of the best incredible-adventure telling, middle grade authors to grace our shelves since Tolkien. (Yeah, we read Tolkien in middle school! #booknerds).
The Quest for the Crystal Crown (The Story Pirates Present)
Random House
Based on an original idea by a real kid! The third book in The Story Pirates Presents series, it's like two books in one. The first part is the story about an enchanted city, and the second part of the book is all about how to create your own fantasy adventure, including creative writing tips and tricks.
This beautiful book kicks off a new series by Newbery Honor author Amy Timberlake, illustrated by beloved artist and Caldecott medalist Jon Klassen (I Want My Hat Back, The Dark, and others). In Skunk and Badger (Skunk and Badger Book 1) we are introduced to a classic new odd-couple that will quickly grab your kiddos' hearts.
This is the second middle grade novel from Bay Area author Mae Respicio and it is full of Filipino folklore, history and cuisine. Any Day with You is a warm, tender story about a creative girl who hopes that by winning a filmmaking contest, she’ll convince her great-grandfather not to move back home to the Philippines.
New in January of 2020, author Tiffany Jewell aims to dismantle racism by helping readers understand the origins of racism, current racism in our society and how to stand up against racial oppression. Each chapter builds on the previous one as you learn more about yourself and racial oppression and it includes 20 powerfully effective activities to get you thinking and help you learn and grow.
Recommended age: The publisher list ages 11+ but we think every family should own a copy of this and read it together.
Ramona Quimby gets a modern update with Ryan Hart and her middle-class family. Newberry Honor and Coretta Scott King Author Award winner Renée Watson starts a new chapter book series for budding readers with Ways to Make Sunshine. The intro novel follows Ryan as she navigates family that includes her dad finding a job after a long period of unemployment, school and self-image. No matter what she faces, Ryan knows how to make sunshine out of any situation.
Sandy Stark-McGinnis' second middle school novel offers a hopeful yet heart wrenching story of a young girl dealing with her mother's early onset Alzheimer's diagnosis. Cassie and her dad are handling all the new changes quite well until Mom forgets Cassie's name, and she struggles to stay connected to friends and her art. Tough topics abound in this middle grade story that follows Cassie as she decides to break one of her dad's rules to make her mom happy.
Imagine a world where girls loved their body just as it is. Love Your Body, a new book by Jessica Sanders strives to make this a reality. With “imperfect” illustrations, this book helps show girls that their bodies are powerful instruments, rather than just an object. It covers all shapes and sizes, what happens with puberty hits, and even has tips and tricks that may help girls feel better about themselves.
Dark Hedges, Wizard Island, and Other Magical Places That Really Exist
Readers will learn all about mysterious and mystical places that really exist, like The Skeleton Coast, The Fairy Tale Route and even the Lost City of Petra. Piquing the interest of budding and seasoned travelers alike, this is an ideal book to read with kids who are curious about all the unusual things out in the big wide world.
Billed as 5 bookzzz in 1, Tedd Arnold's popular Fly Guy Presents series including Sharks, Dinosaurs, Insects, Bats and Snakes, are compiled into one book. In each chapter, Fly Guy and Buzz introduce kids to these "scary" animals with facts, photos and Fly Guy commentary.
If your kid likes the Wimpy Kid series, this new set of stories might be right up his alley. Meet Iggy. He's a mischevious kid who will go through a series of doing bad things, from kinda bad to really bad. Then he'll deal with the consequences. Told with a dry wit and including plenty of fun illustrations, this easy chapter book is perfect for kids mastering their reading skills.
Part choose-your-own-adventure, part mystery, part activity book, the newest book in the Escape This Book series by author Bill Doyle and illustrator Sarah Sax will have your kids reading, laughing, drawing and puzzling out an "escape route" from an Egyptian tomb by choosing one of three paths. Educational and interactive, this might be the best book for travel we've seen in ages.
Diary of a 5th Grade Outlaw: The Friend Thief Book 2
Epic Originals
Head back to Nottingham Elementary for another adventure! Robin is happy to be "back together" with her BFF after "winning" her back from the schoolyard bully, Nadia. But Nadia starts to win over the other kids including Robin's bestie. The second book in this Robin Hood inspired series, find the first one here. Written by Gina Loveless, illustrated by Andrea Bell.
In the vein of books like Goodnight Stories for Rebel Girls, this illustrated book aims to empower and inspire kids by telling incredible stories of courage, ingenuity and deep commitment of kids who have changed (and are changing) the world. Amy Blackwell's rich illustrations accompany author Amandi Li's account of true-life tales of 29 incredible, ordinary kids including activist Great Thunberg, shark-attack survivor and surfer Bethany Hamilton, football (soccer) star Pelé, and more.
Small & Mighty: An Activist's Guide for Finding Your Voice & Engaging with the World
Gibbs Smith
Filled with six activity-packed chapters, this interactive journal encourages young people to find and share their voice. Young activists will find checklists, stickers, worksheets, and introspective activities that will encourage them to think about their future and the world around them.
Ages: 9-14
Get it here, $16.99; Find Girl Almighty: An Interactive Journal for Being a Mighty Activist of the World & Other Utterly Respectable Pursuits here, $16.99
A Girl, A Raccoon, and the Midnight Moon
Chronicle Books
Karen Romano Young introduces readers to a group of kid (and raccoon) activists who are fighting to save their local library. If that fact alone isn't enough to get you reading (raccoon activists! library lovers!) her frequent references to Edna St. Vincent Millay, delightful footnotes, and magically-infused writing should do it. Classic illustrations by Jessixa Bagley's add even more enchantment to the pages.
From first-time author J.M.M Nuanez comes a story about a girl named Jack and her gender non-confirming little brother Birdie. A beautifully written tale about loss, sibling relationships, and how love and understanding can grow and thrive, even for the most unexpected families. Strong characters and flowing prose make this stunning debut a must-read book for 2020.
We Had to Be Brave: Escaping the Nazis on the Kindertransport
Harrowing real-life stories come to life in award-winning author Debrah Hopkinson’s non-fiction retelling of families torn apart by Nazi Germany. With interviews, photos and detailed research, Hopkinson approaches what might be, for middle-grade kids, their first non-fiction account of the rise of Adolf Hitler and the Holocaust, with incredible details and readable prose. An important contribution to YA literature.
Before Hermione and Katniss, there were brilliant queens, clever villagers and brave girls who were saving the world around them—even if you’ve never heard their stories. Now is their chance to shine in this lovely collection of folktales from China, Russia, Persia, India, France, Germany and more. These strong protagonists are ideal role models for young girls.
As an Indian American girl in a small town, Lekha hides her differences and avoids confrontation so she won't get teased. But when a new Indian girl moves in across the street, she teaches Lekha about prejudice, pride in her culture and the power of her own voice.
Lotta, Egg, Fenna, Sem, and Milou are orphans in 19th century Amsterdam. In all the years that Little Tullip Orphanage headmistress Elinora Gassbeek has been in charge, she's never seen more unusual arrivals than that of these five. Each with mysterious beginnings, all with unique character, they become known as "the unadoptables." When they unearth a villainous plan from their apparent adopted patron, they escape together into the frozen streets and canals of Amsterdam. What follows is the discovery of who they are and where they came from. With delightful prose and an excellent plot, readers will be captived until the last page of this fantastic debut by author Hana Tooke.
When her father gets sick, 12-year-old Piper is sent to live at her grandmother's house. The grand estate and its garden hold many secrets: Who are the mysterious children who live on the property? And is Piper's grandmother really a witch? Piper needs answers to help heal her father.
From Newbery Award-winning novelist Mildred D. Taylor comes the end of the Logan family saga that began with Song of the Trees and Roll of Thunder, Hear My Cry. In All the Days Past, Cassie Logan is all grown up and trying to find her place in the world. Her journey takes her to Toledo, California, law school in Boston and finally, back to Mississippi in the '60s to help with voter registration. She will be witness to the rise of the civil rights movement, which is preceded by racist American white society, and the often violent confrontations that bring about historical change.
America's Test Kitchen has just released their newest book, My First Cookbook and its one for every little up and coming chef. The photo-focused book introduces kitchen language, equipment, helpful kitchen prep and tons of step-by-step instructions that littles (and cooking-challenged adults) will adore. Enjoy simple and delicious recipes for appetizers and snacks, main meals, seasonal goodies and international recipes.
Perfect for budding bakers, The Llamacorn Cookbook's bright photos and easy recipes will inspire everyone. The 96-page book shares 45 recipes, many of which use store bought items to make cooking easy and fun––especially for parents. Kiddos can whip up Llamacorn's Meringue Cookies, Enchanged Unicorn Horns and Lah-Tee-Dah Pink Limeade and plenty more whimsical treats.
The Peanuts gang is here to spice up your kiddos lunch! Packed with over 50 recipes and 60+ comic strips, this fun cookbook puts a fun twist on kid-friendly recipes, sneaking in a fair amount of fruit and veggies in the process.
Over 60 royal recipes await in the new Disney Princess Baking cookbook. With categories that include morning treat, cakes, bars, cookies, pies and tarts, this comprehensive baker's book is great for budding chefs. While the recipes are a little more complex for a beginner, they make the perfect challenge for kiddos looking to up their skills.
San Diegans are currently homebound due to social distancing and widespread business closures. Your kids may not understand why trips to the museum, zoo, Safari Park or Birch Aquarium have to be put on hold. We’ve found plenty of ways for your family to enjoy some of your favorite places from home! See what the rhinos, elephants, giraffes, koalas and cute creatures are doing at the zoo and Safari Park (including Butterfly Jungle!) via live cameras, watch the fish swim through Birch Aquarium’s kelp forest in real time, spy some adorable, adoptable cats lounging at The Cat Cafe, take advantage of the San Diego Natural History Museum’s online learning experiences and videos, take an online yoga class hosted by a local yoga studio. Read on for how to explore the city without leaving the house.
San Diego Zoo Safari Park is bringing Butterfly Jungle to your home, via a new live video cam! Now you can view livestreaming video from Butterfly Jungle at sdzsafaripark.org/butterfly-cam and take a visual “walk” through the rain forest habitat. Here, you'll see some of the thousands of colorful, eye-catching butterflies as they flutter lightly through the warm air to find nectar-filled flowers, or catch of glimpse of up to 22 exotic bird species—including the critically endangered Bali myna and blue-crowned laughingthrush that reside inside the aviary, among the lush greenery.
The San Diego Zoo is closed through March 31, but you can still see many of the Zoo's animals via their live cams. Watch the African penguins snooze, swim and waddle. See the Hamadryas baboon troop or the Gelada monkeys hang out. Spy sweet koalas climbing through the trees. Giggle watching the orangutans and siamangs swing to and fro. It's quite fun popping in to see what all of these amazing creatures are up to!
Bonus: Visit the San Diego Zoo Kids website for additional videos, stories, activities and games that will keep kiddos entertained and learning.
Birch Aquarium is temporarily closed to the public but their live Kelp Cam is open 24/7. (But be advised it goes dark at night since it's naturally lit by sunlight during the day).
At time of publication, the Birch Aquarium's husbandry team is planning to keep the same feeding schedule, so you can watch divers via the Kelp Cam as they feed the animals and also as they clean the tank on Tues. and Thurs. at 12:30 p.m., on Sat. at 2 p.m. and Sun. at 10:30 a.m. (Subject to change).
This is a peaceful view into the underwater world of swimming fish and swaying kelp.
The San Diego Zoo Safari Park is closed through March 31st but kids can enjoy watching their favorite animals in action right from home. Click on the giraffe cam to see giraffes and rhinos roaming the African Plains habitat. Then encourage your kids to join the citizen science program Wildwatch Kenya to help save giraffes. Your fam can also delight in seeing the beautiful tigers sleeping and prowling via the tiger cam. Don't miss tuning in to the elephant cam to see these gentle giants eating, playing and looking regal. There are also condor cams and burrowing owl cams of feathered friends.
The San Diego Natural History Museum is closed but they have plenty of ways to keep young minds enlightened and entertained. Visit their new webpage: The Nat at Home for an array of activities from exploring nature in your backyard to exploring their specimens online. They're also offering Nature & Me Storytime every Thursday at 10:15 a.m. on their Facebook and Instagram pages.
Additionally, check out their online video collection which features videos on topics including A Deep Look at a Mammoth's Skull, gray whale watching and administering medicine to a sick rattlesnake.
Additionally the Museum offers the following to keep kids engaged while home:
Their science blog goes back through years of research and discovery. It will continue to be updated during the Museum's closure.
Their educational resources are available here and include plenty of activities you can do at home.
Here kitty, kitty! Peer in to The Cat Cafe's live stream footage to see all of the adorable kitties! They're cleaning their cute little faces by licking their paws, snoozing in cat condos, clawing rope posts and more. See how many cats you can spy. The best part: these frolicking felines are up for adoption! So if you see a cute cat that's purrfect for your family, give The Cat Cafe a call.
Take a fun video tour of Old Town San Diego. You'll learn about the restaurants, entertainment, shops and more in this exciting locale. Then your family can plan a future trip to Old Town after reading our guide to Old Town to make sure you make the most of your visit and don't miss a thing!
Surf's up! Hotel Del Coronado's live beach cam will help you channel the soothing vibes of the ocean. Log on to see the sun rise or set over the ocean and to watch the waves crashing on the shore. It's the good for the soul vitamin 'sea' we all need.
The San Diego Museum of Art mobile app is a great resource with various languages, audio from curators, maps and additional information about works of art from the Museum’s collection. The app offers a virtual tour of the Museum, from the lower rotunda to the galleries and the Museum’s facade. Visitors can also view works from various exhibitions on the app, including Bouguereau & America, Art for All and more. The app is also free easily downloadable on iOS and Android devices.
Mello Yoga is currently closed to abide by COVID-19 regulations. In the meantime, the wonderful studio is serving the community by uploading yoga videos for adults and kids to their YouTube channel. They'll be adding new videos for online classes daily––and doing yoga together is a perfect way to bond and get some exercise during your homeschool routine.
When you combine trains, technology and barbecue, the only place you can be is Kansas City. This kid-friendly Missouri town offers loads of attraction for visiting families. We’ve gathered up a slew of our favorites below and visit our Kansas City events calendar for the full scoop on events for kids during your stay.
The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art
Spend day wandering through world-class galleries. The Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art is the cultural jewel of Kansas City and just three blocks from the Country Club Plaza. Bonus: admission is free
National WWI Museum and Memorial
The National WWI Museum and Memorial is America’s leading institution dedicated to remembering, interpreting and understanding this war and its enduring impact on the global community. The museum offers activities for kids like a scavenger hunt that will take you all over the museum.
Arabia Steamboat Museum
The Arabia Steamboat Museum is a favorite Kansas City attraction, a history museum housing 200 tons of cargo from life on the American frontier in 1856. This steamboat was recovered in 1988 and and serves as a time capsule of American frontier life.
Negro Leagues Baseball Museum
Opened in 1991, this museum is a tribute to some of baseball’s best-unknown players. The NLBM is a self-guided tour experience. The exhibition features text panels, hundreds of photographs, artifacts and several film exhibits that is integrated with a timeline of baseball and African American history. Length of tour varies but we recommend a minimum of an hour to fully enjoy the exhibit.
The Ewing and Muriel Kauffman Memorial Garden
This two-acre garden is part of the Kauffman Legacy Park in the heart of Kansas City. Open year round, the park serves as a tranquil place for families to visit.
4800 Rockhill Rd.
Kansas City, MO Online:kauffman.org
The National Museum of Toys and Miniatures
This museum features the world’s largest collection of fine-scale miniatures and one of the nation’s largest collection of antique toys on public display. Visit on Wednesdays and Saturdays and you can take an in-depth tour of one of the exhibits.
Kaleidoscope
Provided by Hallmark Cards, Kaleidoscope nourishes the creative spirit. It is a place where all children and their families are invited to be creative, have fun and feel good about their own special ideas. Admission is free. Children use their imaginations to make art with materials from Hallmark’s manufacturing processes. Some are cut into shapes, while others are left just as Hallmark sends them. And Hallmark provides different materials so the projects are ever-changing!
Science City at Union Station
See how astronauts train for space missions or discover the chemistry behind some of your favorite beverages. Kids and adults alike will be entertained for hours at this center dedicated to showing how science is a part of our everyday lives.
Kansas City Zoo
Explore the Kansas City Zoo, with more than 1,700 animals on 202 acres. It’s the most affordable family fun for kids of all ages. Hop aboard the Zoo Sky Safari for an aerial view of the park and then ride the Zebra Tram when the kids get tired.
SEA LIFE Kansas City
SEA LIFE Kansas City Aquarium will transport you into an amazing underwater world! Come nose to nose with sharks and prepare for astonishingly close views of everything from humble starfish, seahorses and graceful rays.
The Best Upcoming Events for Kids in Kansas City
If you’re looking for events and activities, don’t miss our local Kansas City events calendar, which has everything from story times to seasonal activities like apple picking, pumpkin patches and Christmas tree farms.
