Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in boston, MA

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Wild Weekends

July 30, 2009

Baby, it's HOT outside. Good thing there are so many *cool* events going on this weekend!! (Get it, cool? Hot? J)

It's Shakespeare on the Common time, folks!! Now in its 14^th year, this year's production is The Comedy of Errors which will undoubtedly be performed expertly by the Commonwealth Shakespeare Company. Completely free, the performances will draw over 75,000 people and runs for 4 weeks at the Parkman Bandstand on Boston Common. July 31^st - August 16^st, Tuesday through Saturday at 8pm, Sundays @ 7pm. Matinees: Sun. Aug 9^th at 1pm, Wed. Aug 12^th at 12:30pm.

The Magic 106.7 Family Film Festival continues. Take in a flick fit for the fam on the Prudential Center's South Garden - this weekend's feature is Hotel For Dogs. Fun begins at 6pm and films start at sundown. Saturday, August 1^st.

A Fête for Fairies. Meet underneath the shady trees where you will sit and sip fairy tea. Listen to treasured tales of far-away lands and create a tiny fairy for at-home play. Come early and visit The Enchanted Forest in the Family Discovery Gallery. At the Wenham Museum, Sunday, August 2, 1:30pm. Pre-registration: $12 members, $14 non-members.

Family Ecology Cruise Aboard The Yankee Clipper. Join Teacher-Naturalist Lisa Hutchings and the crew of the Yankee Clipper for an exciting exploration of the lower Merrimack River ecosystem. They'll conduct hands-on science as you collect water samples, live specimens, and plankton. You'll also look for wading birds, seals, and waterfowl on every trip. Pre-registration required. The Mass Audubon Society: $20 Adult members, $27 Adult non-members, $16 Children members, $19 Children non-members. To register, call 978-462-9998. Sunday, August 2^nd, 8:45am - 10:45am, Merrimack River, Newburyport.

Two'fers - Where You Can Squeeze Two Events into One Day

July 21, 2009

We all like a little bang for our buck. This goes for our precious time as well. Once you emit the energy it takes to get a couple (or more) of kids out of the house, you want to make it worthwhile, right? Here are a few ideas for squeezing more than one activity into one outing without running all over town to do so.

1. Spend the morning exploring the Harvard Museum of Natural History in Cambridge, including a dizzying array of hundreds of animals, dinosaurs, whale skeletons, gemstones, minerals and meteorites. Later, hit the spray fountains and big boulders in front of the Harvard Science Center at the corner of Kirkland & Oxford Streets. If it's Tuesday in summer, throw in a visit to the Harvard Farmer's Market and call it a day well-spent.

2. The New England Aquarium is an under-the-sea adventure for all, especially the Great Ocean Tank. Once your wonder wears off, continue with the water theme and check out a Boston Harbor Cruise - there are many to choose from!

3. The Boston Duck Tours are a must-see for visitors and residents alike! Catch it before or after a spin around the Museum of Science, it leaves from just outside!

4. Take a spin on the waters of the Boston Public Garden in a Swan Boat. (That in itself is a two'fer!!) Then shake on over to the Frog Pond & Tadpole Playground for a little spray fountain fun and a swing on the monkey bars.

5. Is it a super hot day? The Boston Public Library in Copley Square is air-conditioned and offers hours of entertainment. Check out their calendar if you are looking for an organized event or just visit the stacks and read together. Once their energy levels hit high again, head outside and throw pennies into the fountain at Copley Square. Wrap it up by and buy a snack from nearby vendors or listen to the free entertainment during summer months.

Wild Weekends

June 25, 2009

This weekend marks the start of our family vacation. While we are frolicking on the beach, you will be taking advantage of what promises to be PERFECT weather (crosses fingers), and our wonderful local events.

Frog Pond Opening Day Celebration. Summer isn't summer without a trip to dip in the Frog Pond. Join the fun at opening day with a special visit from mascot Frog Pond Freddie, entertainment, and arts and crafts activities with Sidewalk Sam. Children of all ages can enjoy story telling by ReadBoston and music and activities provided by the Mix 98.5 Street Team. Refreshments will be provided by in-kind sponsors H.P. Hood LLC, Cabot Creamery, Nantucket Nectars, Snapple, and Jennifer's Ice Cream who will provide tasty samples and important nutrition information. Friday, June 26^th, 2-3:30pm. Boston Common, Boston.

Family Fun Day in Sommerville. Summer gets kicked off at this annual event, which includes a free BBQ, watermelon eating contest, dunk tank, and family friendly events. Saturday, June 27^th, noon - 5pm. Trum Field, Sommerville (for directions, click here).

The Great American Backyard Campout. Learn to camp in the safety of the family Children's Museum. At this event, kids will learn to set up a tent, snuggle in a sleeping bag, make their own trail mix, sing camping songs, and prepare to join America's largest camp out in your own back yard. Saturday, June 27^th, 11am - 4pm. Boston Children's Museum.

Whale Watch. This is the perfect weekend or a whale watch! Climb aboard the Voyager III for Boston's best whale watch and enjoy the view as their high-speed catamaran whisks you to the whale feeding grounds just 30 miles east of Boston. Your destination is Stellwagen Bank Marine Sanctuary, a rich feeding ground for whales, dolphins, sea birds and other marine life. This area is home to several kinds of large whales, including humpback whales, finback whales, minke whales, as well as pilot whales and the critically endangered right whales. For more info and reservations, visit the New England Aquarium's Whale Watch page.

Perfect for a Picnic

June 09, 2009

Few activities are more enjoyable than a perfect landscape, the high noon sun, and a packed lunch. A picnic is one of the quintessential summer outings that, planned properly, can rank high on the list of most memorable days. Here are a few ideas for making your picnic perfect.

1. Maudsley State Park in Newburyport. Bordering on the Merrimack River, this park features 19th century gardens and plantings, breathtaking meadows, and incredible ornamental trees. Follow the trails to the river, sit on the rocks and dangle your feet in the water. Enjoy lunch in the meadow while the river rushes by. What more could you ask for? Curzon Mill Road, Newburyport.

2. Coolidge Reservation in Manchester-by-the-Sea. The former site of the Coolidge mansion, the Ocean Lawn at the tip of Coolidge Point is an idyllic spot for picnics and games. Open only on Saturdays, the Ocean Lawn is an incredible open space above the ocean where visitors can sometimes catch a glimpse of seals or just view the beautiful Atlantic. On other days, you can visit the northern portion closest to the parking lot, which features hilly woodlands and a pond for a dip. Insiders tip: There is very limited parking. You cannot park on Rte 27 itself. There is a 1/2 mile trail through woods and across private property to get there and make sure to use bug spray this year! Also, there are no public restrooms. Summer Street (Rte 127), Manchester-by-the-Sea.

3. The Boston Common. If you're looking for a more local destination, the 50 acres that comprise the Boston Common will provide you with more than enough grass to choose from. Fun for people-watching, Frisbee or a cooling off in the Frog Pond, the Common is ideal for lunch al fresco. Forgot to pack a picnic basket? Stop into any of the little grocery stores lining Charles Street or grab a pizza at nearby Upper Crust and indulge in good food and a relaxing afternoon just a few minutes from home. Looking for an education angle for choosing this spot? The Common was declared a National Historic Landmark in 1987. Bound by Tremont, Beacon, Charles and Boylston Streets.

4. Crystal Lake. Sure this beautiful spot in Newton is known for its public beach and swimming area. But the entire circumference of the lake is not reserved just for residents. If you follow Lake Road, you'll come to an area of embankment perfect for a picnic. After a morning at the playground, pull up a piece of grass and enjoy lunch at this peaceful place. Lake Road, Newton.

5. Larz Anderson Park. I love this place, it's truly beautiful. You can spend an entire afternoon at Larz Anderson. Start with your picnic and use some of their vast grassy areas for ultimate kite-flying. Then, check out the Auto Museum and step back in time to 1888 in this carriage house modeled after a French chateau. 15 Newton Street, Brookline.

Places to Learn about Science and Natural History

June 02, 2009

Just cuz it's (almost) summer doesn't mean we need to neglect educating our children. Schools's out, but in order to avoid the dreaded summer brain drain, consider using wet days and/or super hot days to hit one of Boston's best science or Natural History spots.

1. If you're looking to sprinkle a little culture into your summer and visit the Harvard Museum of Natural History. A 7-10 minute walk through the historic Harvard Yard, the museum features exhibits on all kinds of life - plants, animals, and humankind. Your kids will be enraptured by the incredibly life-like animal structures, from giraffes, tigers, lions, elephants, rhinos and hippos, to bears, wolves, giant moose and buffalos. The Fossil Mammals exhibit houses skeletons of hoofed creatures, including a 15-foot long ground sloth! Adults will get a kick out of the Glass Flowers exhibit, so realistic, you won't believe they're made from glass! Afterwards, head over to the Harvard University Science Centerto cool off in the spray park, located just outside.

2. Boston's Museum of Science is a definite must-see for children and adults of any age. What makes this place so special is that they feature many different exhibits and there's always something appropriate for your child. Some of my family's favorite exhibits include The Discovery Center which is designed as a hands-on play & discovery area for kids up to age 8, the in the Park exhibit, an indoor park-like setting that allows for running, jumping and swinging with a touch of science built in, and the beautiful Butterfly exhibit.

3. The lesser know MIT Museum combines science and technology and aims to inspire people of all ages through its many exhibits. Kids will get a kick out of the Robots exhibit as well as Holography feature. The museum offers programs for families, mostly during the school year and with some throughout the summer too. Click here for more info.

4. What kid doesn't love live museums? The Ecotarium in Worcester teaches kids about the Secrets of the Forest, SmartArt: Exploring Science & Art, and animals in their natural habitats. They can play and investigate in the Discovery Room, walk the scenic Nature Trails, and learn about the stars in the Planetarium.

5. The Science Discovery Museum, located within the Discovery Museums in Acton, brings science to life for kids. Learn about what the earth was like in prehistoric times, examine fossils under a magnifying glass and see what creatures were alive and how they have evolved.

Hitting the Nature Spots

May 18, 2009

Teaching our kids about nature should be a priority. Luckily, there are so many cool spots in and around Boston to take your family to enjoy the day and learn a little something.

Take in an outdoor movie at Brookline's Summer in the Parks Outdoor Movie Series. Join friends, family, and neighbors for free outdoor movies this summer including classics for the whole family to enjoy. The series kicks off on Monday July 13th with "The Princess Bride" at Devotion School Field, 345 Harvard St, near Coolidge Corner. Also at Devotion, come watch "Wizard of Oz" on Monday July 20th and "Some Like it Hot" on Monday July 27th. All shows are free and open to the public and begin at dusk (approximately 8 p.m.). Bring your picnic blanket or folding chair for comfortable viewing under the stars, and a flashlight for easier exiting. Food and beverages will be available for purchase. Devotion School Field, 345 Harvard Street (near Coolidge Corner).

Take a walk around Walden Pond. One of the most picturesque settings in Ma, Walden Pond is known historically as the one-time home to Henry David Thoreau. The area has hiking trails around the pond with nooks for private family picnicking and swimming or join the masses and experience swimming in the pond by the beach. A beautiful connection to nature. 915 Walden Street, Concord, MA.

Check out Garden in the Woods, New England Wild Flower Society's 45-acre botanical museum with over 1,000 native plant species and the unique New England Rare and Endangered Plant Garden. This living museum displays an ever-changing tapestry of flowers and foliage. For hours and admission rates, click here. 180 Hemenway Road, Framingham.

5 best places to see the fish

March 31, 2009

My kids loves looking at fish. In fact, they spot them in the oddest places before I do! Here a a few fun ideas for places to see the fish in Boston.

Le's Restaurant at the Atrium Mall. Formerly Pho Pasteur, this restaurant, located in the mommy-mecca otherwise known as the Atrium Mall, not only has great food and a really interesting children's menu (think chicken with Vietnamese noodles), it also has a large fish tank. Filled to the brim with colorful and exotic looking fish, enjoy your meal in peace while your restless child spends time observing the marine life. 300 Boylston Street, Chestnut Hill.
Boston Tropical Fish & Reptiles. In a city where you need to search to find pet stores, this fish store is the place to hit not just to see the fish, but to take them home too. They have fish that are slightly more exclusive than the variety regularly found at other stores, with both fresh and salt water fish and supplies. 243 Monsignor Obrien Hwy, Cambridge.
Fish Pond at Fugakyu. If you can get past the irony of housing a fish pond inside a sushi restaurant, then you're going to love the fish at Fugakyu. Arguably the best sushi in town, Fugakyu makes that wait for a table seem tolerable with the entertaining and beautiful fish. There always seems to be some splashing going on in there, those fish are feisty! 1280 Beacon Street, Brookline.
Ducklings at the Boston Common. Ok, so maybe not technically reptiles, but these ducklings cause quite the commotion every time we bring our toddler to see them! While you're there, you may actually catch a glimpse of some fish swimming in the man-made lagoon (otherwise make up for it with a fun ride on the Swan Boats!)
The New England Aquarium. Clearly the most obvious place to see the fish in Boston, the aquarium definitely works its charm on every visit. I'll never forget the first time my toddler visited this aquarium. She stood for long minutes at a time on the decks located all around the Great Ocean Tank. Watch your child take it all in as the jellyfish, sharks, barracudas, sea turtles and others swim by. 1 Central Wharf, Boston.

Sugaring Off

March 19, 2009

Last weekend, my family revived a long dormant Spring-time tradition. Known in Quebec (where I am from) as "sugaring off", it seems that nothing tastes quite as sweet as the maple that is tapped from the trees at this time of year. Since the above freezing days and below freezing nights in Massachusetts lend itself to the flowing of the sap, local families are privy to a treat that is only reserved for those in climates such as ours. And there are plenty of places to hit up if you want to learn about sugaring off and reap the sweet reward.

Plan a visit to Old Sturbridge Village this weekend and catch the last of their Maple Days. Experience the entire sugar-making process, from tapping the trees near the Sugar Camp to "sugaring off" in a Village household. See maple sugaring as it was done in early 19th-century rural New England and learn why the final product historically was sugar, not syrup. Saturday, March 21^st & 22^nd, 9:30am - 4pm. About 1 hour from Boston.

Next weekend will be sweet at Land's Sake farm in Weston. Their Sugaring Off Festival will feature pancakes, coffee, hot cider, maple sugar treats, music, and free tours of our Sugar Shack in full operation. Saturday, March 28^th at 10am.

The sugar is flowing at Matfield Maple Farm in West Bridgewater. Come view maple syrup made keeping with old traditions using new technology. Tours include a hike through their farm approximately 1/4 mile into woods where the trees are tapped, plumbed and the collection tanks are. Hear about the history, weather relationship and heritage of sugaring. View natural FDA certified springs and visit with their furry llama friends. Saturday s & Sundays through March, $5 per person. Tours at noon and 2pm.

99 Things you must do with your child before they grow up.

February 24, 2009

Boston Children's Museum. There is nothing like the look on your child's face when they enter that bubble room. What kid isn't turned on by the site of enormous bubbles?
Frog Pond and Tadpole Playground. Located in the Boston Common, the Frog Pond is an institution for kids in Boston. Take a dip in it on a hot summer day or skate on it in the winter. A few steps away is the playground which features a play structure, a water spray fountain and bronze frog statues.
New England Aquarium. I'll never forget the first time my toddler visited this aquarium. She stood for long minutes at a time on the decks located all around the Great Ocean Tank. Watch your child take it all in as the jellyfish, sharks, barracudas, sea turtles and others swim by.
Fenway Park Tour. Baseball is synonymous with Boston and even the youngest children know this. No child will ever forget his/her first tour of the Green Monster. Tours leave hourly from the souvenir store.
Walden Pond. A small 102-foot deep pond perfect for wading and swimming, the area also has hiking trails with pond-side nooks for private family picnicking and swimming.
Artesani Playground and Pool. This watering hole features a number of zero depth fountains from the ground as well as a wading pool with all kinds of waterfall like things.
Crystal Lake. Hidden away in Newton Center, the 33 acre natural lake is the absolute perfect place to pass a hot afternoon. Parents can chat with friends (everyone is a familiar face here) or relax on the cramped, but cute beach.
Good Harbor Beach. Arguably the most beautiful on the North Shore, the place is crawling with kids.
Water Country. New England's largest water park is definitely the spot to hit this summer.
The Butterfly Garden at the Museum of Science. Nestled in a warmed conservatory (wear a t-shirt!), visitors are invited to walk among the winged creatures for a close-up look into their habitat.
Imax Theatre at Jordan's. Forget about buying furniture, head to Jordan's for an awesome experience in IMAX.
Visit the Totplex. Located in Canton, this new indoor playspace looks perfect for active kids!
Stargazing at the Gilliland Observatory. If your kids are starry-eyed, take them to the rooftop observatory at the Museum of Science on Friday nights, where they will learn about whatever objects can be observed in the current night sky.
Harvard Museum of Natural History. The museum features exhibits on all kinds of life - plants, animals, and humankind.
The Curious George Goes to Wordsworth. What kid doesn't love an entire book store named after their favorite monkey?
The Franklin Park Zoo. The 72-acre site located in Boston's Franklin Park is home to hundreds of exotic animal species from around the world.
Southwick's Wild Animal Zoo. This zoo features the largest collection of endangered species like the white rhino and African elephants.
Lookout Farm's Petting Zoo. There are many different things to do at this farm depending on the season, but from April through October, you can count on the petting zoo as a main attraction.
Old Sturbridge Village. Take a step into the past at the largest history museum in the northeast.
Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden. Turns out Dr. Seuss was born in Springfield, Ma. and the town celebrated this by erecting five bronze sculptures of the man surrounded by his most beloved characters.
Davis' Farmland & Water Spray Park. Known primarily for its animals, kids can pet, cuddle and feed at what is known as North America's largest sanctuary of endangered farm animals. Also featuring the Imagine-Acres playground and the Adventure Play & Spray, New England's largest, zero-depth water spray ground.
The Discovery Museums. Comprised of The Children's Discovery Museum and the Science Discovery Museum, this is the perfect destination for kids. Everywhere you look, there's an invitation to touch, see, feel, and engage with your child in new ways.
King Richard's Faire. An annual event each fall, the Faire is a recreation of a 16^th century English marketplace where performers entertain, vendors hawk their unique hand-made wares and the Royal Chefs prepare and sell foods authentic to Renaissance times. Exotic animals and costumed characters complete the experience.
First Sunday at The Danforth Museum. On the first Sunday of each month, families are invited to visit the museum then create art together in the Museum School. Perfect for kids 5 - 10.
Nature Storytime at the Harvard Museum of Natural History. Enjoy stories and poems designed to engage the next generation of explorers with themes related to the museum's galleries. For children 6 and under.
Salem during October. No place is spookier than Halloween in Salem. Definitely a must-see!
Apple Picking at the Belkin Family Farm. Absolutely one of our favorite annual events.
Enjoy a Fenway Frank at the famous park. Sure, you can do this later in life, but nothing compares to the look on a child's face during his/her first trip to Fenway.
Boston Duck Tours. Board a "duck" and take a great tour through Boston and its history.
Visit the Hood Milk Bottle. Situated just at the entrance to the museum just across the Fort Point Channel, the wooden structure is 78 years old and was built by Hood Dairy. Today, the bottle is home to an ice cream stand and snack bar.
Make Way for Ducklings Statue. A result of the acclaimed Boston-based children's book by Robert McCloskey in 1941, the bronze statue in the Boston common is a terrific attraction for all children.
The Harvard Book Store. Visit the Coop on Tuesdays at 11am for story time and Saturdays at 11am for story and craft hour.
The USS Constitution Museum. The mmuseum houses the largest collection of USS Constitution-related objects assembled in one location and so much more.
Macy's Annual Christmas Tree Lighting. This is definitely one annual event that could easily become a tradition
Skiing at one of New England's Family Friendly Ski Resorts.
The New England Pirate Museum. Take a tour and board a full-length pirate ship and explore an 80 foot cave, see artifacts from sunken ships and pirate's treasures.
The Salem Pirate Faire. A fall tradition for thousands of would-be pirates in New England.
A trip to Newbury Street's Sugar Heaven - YUMMY!
Salem Willow's Carousel. This famous Flying-horse Carousel offers a thrilling ride to visitors of Salem Willows Park. For free!
The spray park at the Soule Recreation Center in Brookline.
Boston by Little Feet, a walking tour of Boston's historic Freedom Trail designed for children 6 -12.
A trip to Quincy Market in Summer. On any given day (especially weekends) there are a barrage of acts, from music to comedy and juggling, to magic and balloon twisting.
A meal at Legal Sea Food. The delicious kid-friendly menu and coloring book with crayons is a stress-free and yummy venture.
Regal Cinema's annual summertime Free Family Film Festival.
A trip to New York City. Visit the Central Park Zoo, the Children's Museum, the huge Toys R Us, or just roam the streets.
The Liberty Fleet. Take a step back in history and board this 125 schooner, modeled after the wind-driven sailboats of the mid-1800s.
Ride on ride the Salem Ferry. A high-speed catamaran, the ride is 45-minutes and offers guests a beautiful view of the New England coastline. Disembark in Salem and spend a great day.
Visit the Stoneman Playground on the Esplanade for Sundays in the Park each week from early September through early October. Kids can participate in the Kids Fishing Club, model sailboat racing, pony rides, animal adventures, music and magic.
Lunch (or dinner) at the Rainforest Café in the Burlington Mall. Almost as good as the real thing, your kids will LOVE the realistic looking and moving animals. The décor will impress you, too.
The splash fountain outside the Christian Science Center is always full of kids looking to splash around on a hot day.

Wild Weekends

by Jill Notkin

January 29, 2009

Ok, so weï¿½??re headed south to Florida on Saturday for TWO WEEKS J J J but that doesnï¿½??t mean I'm not thinking about all you cold families who are looking for ways to spend your weekend. If we were here, maybe we'd partake in one of these fine events: As if you needed an excuse to head to the Boston Children's Museum . But in case you do, join them Saturday for Read more...

Boston's Best Kept Secrets

by Jill Notkin

January 28, 2009

Lately, I've been coming across all kinds of indoor events and activities that I had never heard of. I thought maybe you hadn't either, and perhaps you wanted to? Rock Spot Climbing - There's a good reason I hadn't heard of this cool new spot in town. It's brand spanking new! In fact, as far as I know, it's not even open yet, but appears to be opening soon. Rock Spot is a rock Read more...

Discovering Nature

by Jill Notkin

October 03, 2008

How curious is your little one? Extremely, I bet. This is the perfect time to begin teaching and exploring nature! And as the leaves start turning colors, there's plenty to discover, even in your own back yard. Feel like an outing? There are plenty of spots to check out if you want to discover nature, and they're just about everywhere you look! The Boston Common, the Arnold Arboretum Read more...

A Perfect Pick for a Picnic

by Jill Notkin

August 29, 2008

Gone Fishin'

by Jill Notkin

August 22, 2008

Anything to do with water is a way of life for us Bostonians, including fishing. There are so many activities revolving around fish, from whale watching, to boating and well, plain old fishing! Taking little ones fishing can be daunting, so here are a few basic tips: Focus praise on participation rather than catching. Fish for pan fish or catfish - success is more Read more...

Wild Weekends

by Jill Notkin

August 21, 2008

The final weeks of August are flying by, so you'd better get in all those outdoor activities before the snowsuits hit the stores! Here are a few ideas to make this beautiful weekend a memorable one. Peach Festival at Smolak Farms . It's pick-your-own-peaches time again and Smolak Farm is celebrating! They will be open for the festival all weekend with a local artisans fair but come Read more...

Weekend Fun

by Jill Notkin

August 08, 2008

It's Friday and while the weatherman isn't forecasting the perfect mix, we have to be prepared for anything. Here are a few great ideas to consider when planning for this weekend. Wild Nights Concert with Bill Staines . The New England Wild Flower Society announces the premiere of their WILD NIGHTS concert series with the legendary folk artist Bill Staines, at the Woodland stage at Read more...

A Family Vacation Guide to Boston: Day 2

by Jill Notkin

July 09, 2008

Now that you've gotten a feel for what Boston has to offer, on to Day two of your trip. By now you know that this city is bursting with energy, not to mention great things to do. On day two, I urge you to visit Cambridge , and its famed Harvard Square . Just a hop, skip and a jump over the Charles River (take public transportation known as the T an adventure unto itself!), Read more...

5 best day trips within an hour of Boston

by Jill Notkin

May 14, 2008

While there's PUH-LENTY to do within the city of Boston and its suburbs, there are a bunch of fun possibilities just a little ways away as well! Get ready to add these destinations to your list of places to go. Old Sturbridge Village Take a step into the past at the largest history museum in the northeast. Journey back in time in rural New England and learn about the Read more...