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

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.

5 Best Things About Growing Up in Boston

July 14, 2009

As much as I loved growing up in Montreal, Canada, I couldn't be happier that my kids have the opportunity to grow up in a city such as Boston.  It has the best of everything, and I have grown to love it here.  But the top 5 things about growing up here have to be:

1. The proximity to the beaches. Nothing feels more like a vacation day than a trip to the beach and we don't even have to go very far to have one! To find out what my favorite local beach is, visit here. Not sure what to bring on your beachy vacation day? Read me!

2. The proximity to ski resorts! Equally as important as the sea are the ski hills. A sport that every child should learn, we are so lucky to have many decent ski resorts close by. Check them out.

3. We have really quality museums. The Children's Museum, the Science Museum, the Harvard Museum of Natural History, even a Pirate Museum. There's never a shortage of learning in our city. And if that's not enough, we have a very cool aquarium, and an awesome observatory,

4. We have spray parks coming out the wazoo!! And they're so cool! The Artesani splash park features a number of zero depth fountains from the ground as well as a wading pool with all kinds of waterfall like things. The Soule Recreation Center park in Brookline has tons of spray for little kids and bigger ones while the splash fountain outside the Christian Science Center is always full of kids looking to splash around on a hot day. It does not get any better than this.

5. Finally, Boston is home to so many fun day trips, like Old Sturbridge Village, Davis' Farmland, The Discovery Museums, and Southwick's Wild Animal Zoo. With so many options, no child shall be bored!!

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.

Wild Weekends

May 28, 2009

This weekend, combine education with fun at the 16^th annual EarthFest.  From family-friendly musical acts to face painting and food sampling, this event, sponsored by Radio 92.9, is the perfect destination for a pretty spring day.  Beginning at 10am, little ones can visit The Kids Planet, an interactive area featuring musical acts and entertainment as well as environmental activities and educational displays.  Throughout the day, families can wander through the Whole Foods Mercado.  Inside, kids can play with grocery-themed toys like squishy fruits and vegetables and wooden blocks shaped like grocery staples. They will also learn about healthy eating with coloring sheets and an interactive display about the food pyramid.  The Whole Foods bakery will even be baking up fresh chocolate chip cookies throughout the day for everyone to enjoy.  Sound good?  Saturday, May 30^th from 10am for Kids Planet, and 12 - 5pm for all other activities.  At the Hatch Shell.

On the last Saturday of the month, the ICA opens its doors to families for free for their wonderful Playdates.  This month, kids can design the building of their dreams, and see a city come to life as the ICA and the Boston Society of Architects create a model city on the stage of the ICA's theater.  Have fun and learn about architecture and design from the ground up.  Activity takes a minimum of 2 hours and is recommended for children aged 6 or older with adults.  Reserve your space here.  Saturday, May 30^th, 10am - 4pm.     

Audition for CoCo Key's next TV commercial.  Bring your drama queens and kings to an open audition for the indoor water park, but be sure to practice the jingle because the judges are going to want to hear it!  The first 100 people to audition will receive a free day pass to the park, others will get a buy-on-get-one deal.  Auditions are Sunday, May 31^st, from 2-7pm at Coco Key Water Resort at the Sheraton, 50 Ferncroft Rd., Danvers.   

Free Summer Stuff

May 26, 2009

Let's face it - the way things are these days, the best things in life have to be free.  And our majestic city is not above offering some of the finer things, you guessed it, for free.

• 1. Free Friday Flicks at the Hatch Shell. A summertime tradition for New England families, Free Friday Flicks features classic & popular, family-oriented movies every Friday night throughout the summer at the MDC Hatch Shell on the Esplanade for FREE! Put on by WBZ, movies are shown rain or shine at sundown (approximately 8:30pm). There is often some local entertainment before the movie, appropriate for all ages. Arrive early to grab your spot on the lawn. For added fun, visit the WBZ Tent for free giveaways, food samples and fun interactive games. To find out what's playing, call the WBZ Free Friday Flicks Hotline 617-787-7200. Tip: use public transport as parking is limited and fills up FAST! Starts Friday, June 19^th.
• 2. Museums on Us. This amazing program offers free admission at 74 museums, zoos and science centers nationwide the first full weekend of every month. The offer applies to all Bank of America card holders (of any card). Since Boston definitely has days in summer that are too hot for outdoor play, this freebie may just come in handy! Participating museums in Ma. are: Museum of Fine Arts, Harvard Museum of Natural History, Decordova Museum and Sculpture Park, Danforth Museum of Art and the newly added Ecotarium.
• 3. Free Fridays. Brand-new and provided by the Highland Street Foundation, Free Fridays allows select cultural institutions to open their doors to the public free of charge on certain Fridays during the summer. Entry to the Museum of Science will be free on July 3. A week later, people can visit the John F. Kennedy Presidential Library. Plimouth Plantation is free on Aug. 7.
• 4. Hatch Shell Concert Series. Summer isn't summer without free concerts at our beloved hatch shell. Come early and set up your blanket or chairs and catch an open-air concert. Use public transportation as parking is limited. For a complete schedule, visit here.
• 5. Fairs, Festivals and Fun Things. Boston summer is chock full of fun festivals and fairs and you can find out what's going on right here on Savvy Source! Stay tuned as the fairgrounds get prepped for the best Boston has to offer. Some exciting events coming up are Radio 92.9 EarthFest (May 30^th), the See New England Festival (June 6^th), 27th Annual Jimmy Fund Scooper Bowl (June 9^th), and the 30th Cambridge River Festival (June 13^th).

Wild Weekends: Memorial Day Edition

May 21, 2009

A long weekend - woohoo!  But while some might celebrate an extra day home with the kiddos, others might be wondering what to do to keep them entertained.  Never fear, here are some Savvy ideas for spending your Memorial Day weekend.

Street Performer Festival at Faneuil Hall.  Did you know that Faneuil Hall is one of the most visited food halls in the world?  While there's a treat for everyone inside, the real piece de resistance at Quincy Market is the free outdoor entertainment.  On any given day (especially weekends) there are a barrage of acts, from music to comedy and juggling, to magic and balloon twisting.  This weekend visit for the Street Performer Festival and enjoy free entertainment for 3 days straight - from magic, to juggling to acrobats, to clowns and mimes and musicians, you and your kids will have a great time.  Saturday, May 23^rd to Monday, May 25^th, 11am - 10pm.  For directions, click here. 

Newburyport Spring Fest.  Ring in spring at Newburyport's annual festival!  A two-day event, the festival features music, art, fine crafts, food from Newburyport's best restaurants and a Kid's Korner with entertainment for children and families.  Sunday, May 24^th & Monday, May 25^th, 10am - 5pm.  For a calendar of events, click here.

Celebrate Arthur's 8^th Birthday!  The Boston Children's Museum presents a celebration in honor of the famous aardvark's birthday.  Sing Happy Birthday, wear Arthur ear crowns, and join the party.  Saturday, May 23^rd to Monday, May 25^th, 2:30 & 3:30pm.

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.        

School Vacation Week

April 20, 2009

It's school vacation AGAIN!  And while it seems to Mom that the week is interminable, there are ways to actually make it fun.  With so many venues offering special activities for kids, it's unlikely they (or you) will be bored.

Animal Survivors Spring Break - Spend four fun-filled days the Franklin Park Zoo during spring break!  This year's theme is Animal Survivors and they'll explore the relationships between predator and prey, as well as the unique adaptations animals have that help them survive in an "eat or be eaten" world.  Topics include habitats, adaptations, predator-prey and extreme survival and are taught through interactive presentations, keeper encounters, behind-the-scenes tours, games, crafts and more!  For kids 6 - 10 years old.  April 21^st - 24^th, Franklin Park Zoo.
Prices: $150 Members, $175 Non-Members
Time: Drop-off: 8:30 - 9:00 a.m.; Pick-up: 3:00 p.m.

Conservation Week - While school is out for April school vacation week, have fun while visiting Stone Zoo! Each day will offer a variety of engaging and educational activities for kids of all ages, as well as many helpful hints for preserving our planet.  April 20^th - 24^th, 11am - 3pm, Stone Zoo.  Free with zoo admission.

The Children's Museum in Easton - Stop by the museum all week to participate in a variety of nature inspired craft projects featuring natural and recycled materials.  They will also be visited by some very special guests this week.  April 18^th-26^th.  For a full schedule, click here.  9 Sullivan Ave., North Easton.

Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum - The Gardner celebrates School Vacation Week with a week of fun for all ages! Museum staff will be on hand throughout the galleries to answer questions and spark lively discussions on specific works of art.  On Wednesday, April 22nd, enjoy Fun for Families Day: FREE museum admission and a full day of storytelling, gallery activities, art-making, and more.  April 21^st - 24^th, 11am - 4:45pm. 

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

February 24, 2009

1. 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? 
2. 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.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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. 
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. Good Harbor Beach.  Arguably the most beautiful on the North Shore, the place is crawling with kids.
9. Water Country. New England's largest water park is definitely the spot to hit this summer.  
10. 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. 
11. Imax Theatre at Jordan's.  Forget about buying furniture, head to Jordan's for an awesome experience in IMAX. 
12. Visit the Totplex.  Located in Canton, this new indoor playspace looks perfect for active kids!
13. 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.  
14. Harvard Museum of Natural History.  The museum features exhibits on all kinds of life - plants, animals, and humankind.
15. The Curious George Goes to Wordsworth.  What kid doesn't love an entire book store named after their favorite monkey?
16. 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.
17. Southwick's Wild Animal Zoo.  This zoo features the largest collection of endangered species like the white rhino and African elephants.
18. 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.
19. Old Sturbridge Village.  Take a step into the past at the largest history museum in the northeast.
20. 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.  
21. 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.   
22. 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.     
23. 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.
24. 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.
25. 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.
26. Salem during October.  No place is spookier than Halloween in Salem.  Definitely a must-see!
27.  Apple Picking at the Belkin Family Farm.  Absolutely one of our favorite annual events.
28.  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.
29. Boston Duck Tours.  Board a "duck" and take a great tour through Boston and its history.
30. 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.
31. 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. 
32. The Harvard Book Store.  Visit the Coop on Tuesdays at 11am for story time and Saturdays at 11am for story and craft hour.
33. The USS Constitution Museum.  The mmuseum houses the largest collection of USS Constitution-related objects assembled in one location and so much more.
34. Macy's Annual Christmas Tree Lighting.  This is definitely one annual event that could easily become a tradition
35. Skiing at one of New England's Family Friendly Ski Resorts.
36. 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.
37. The Salem Pirate Faire.  A fall tradition for thousands of would-be pirates in New England.
38. A trip to Newbury Street's Sugar Heaven - YUMMY!
39. Salem Willow's Carousel.  This famous Flying-horse Carousel offers a thrilling ride to visitors of Salem Willows Park.  For free!
40. The spray park at the Soule Recreation Center in Brookline. 
41. Boston by Little Feet, a walking tour of Boston's historic Freedom Trail designed for children 6 -12.
42. 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. 
43. A meal at Legal Sea Food.  The delicious kid-friendly menu and coloring book with crayons is a stress-free and yummy venture.
44. Regal Cinema's annual summertime Free Family Film Festival. 
45. 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.
46. The Liberty Fleet.  Take a step back in history and board this 125 schooner, modeled after the wind-driven sailboats of the mid-1800s. 
47. 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.
48. 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.
49. 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.
50. The splash fountain outside the Christian Science Center is always full of kids looking to splash around on a hot day.

Presidents' Day

by Jill Notkin

February 16, 2009

It's Presidents' Day today and while for some, this just means a day off from school and work, for others, it is actually a day to think about our former leaders. Initially intended to celebrate George Washington's birthday (February 22 nd ), it has since been expanded to include a celebration of the birth of Lincoln as well (February 12 th ). It is also used to honor the country's  Read more...

Economic Stimulus WHAT?

by Jill Notkin

February 05, 2009

It's no secret that times are tough and families need every bit of money they bring in. Some are tightening their belts and not spending on family outings like they used to. If you fit into this group, read on for some fun things to do in Boston - for FREE! The Harvard Book Store . A walk around Harvard Square is an experience in itself but a stop in at the Harvard Coop Bookstore is  Read more...

Wild Weekends

by Jill Notkin

January 29, 2009

Ok, so we�??re headed south to Florida on Saturday for TWO WEEKS J J J but that doesn�??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...

Indoor Play on a Midwinter's Day

by Jill Notkin

January 20, 2009

If you're like me, the days spent indoors with kids are LOOOONG. So we are forever seeking out fun, indoor spots to spend the morning or afternoon. With a 15-month-old and an almost 3-year-old, it has to be somewhat easy, not too far from home, and worth the effort. Here are some of our favorite spots, along with a few we're looking forward to trying. We tend to spend a lot of time at  Read more...

MLK Day

by Jill Notkin

January 16, 2009

Martin Luther King Jr. was a man with a dream, and we'll celebrate him on Monday in many different ways.   If you have the day off, why not check out one of the family-friendly events around town meant to commemorate this special day? The Boston Children's Museum will honor Dr. King with a performance by the Children's Inspirational Freedom Choir.   They will also offer a host of  Read more...

Wild Weekends

by Jill Notkin

January 15, 2009

Baby, it's cold outside! What's on your (long) weekend schedule? It's Critter Day at the Children ' s Museum ! Meet creatures that are rare and that you've probably never heard of before! This live animal programming is on-going every 3 rd Saturday through March 21 st , and promises to teach kids about creatures from all over. This week's them is Jungle Encounters. Free with  Read more...

Mirror, Mirror, on the Wall... 5 Places Where You Can See Your Reflection

by Jill Notkin

January 13, 2009

Giving your children a theme with which they can plan their day is fun and constructive.   Not only does it force them to use their brains, it gives you a destination!   Have them come up with 5 places in Boston where they can see their reflection, then put those places on the "to-go" list.   Trust me, it's not easy!   Here's what I came up with: 1.      In the glass of the giant  Read more...

Wild Weekends

by Jill Notkin

January 08, 2009

I'm cold. And it's likely that I'll stay this way for a few more months. So I may as well make the best of it and find fun, indoor stuff to do until the sun once again shines on us and warms our selves. Check out the Coolidge Corner Theatre in Brookline for hip music by Bed Rudnick and Friends. With a combination of musical styles from country to bluegrass, everybody will love these  Read more...

The Gift of Giving

by Jill Notkin

December 16, 2008

Ok. So it's 9 days before Christmas and you're so over beating the rush at the mall. How about giving a gift that keeps on giving all year round? Here are a few ideas for gifts that you can't touch or feel, but will provide a lot of fun: The Children's Museum offer memberships for children 10 and under. For one year, your child will have free admission to the museum, as well as free  Read more...

Wild Weekends

by Jill Notkin

December 11, 2008

So far we have no plans for the upcoming weekend. Not that we don't have plenty to do with the holidays coming up and all the fun stuff going on around town. Faneuil Hall is hosting the 4 th Annual Candy Land Tournament sponsored by Hasbro, this weekend. Head to the famous shopping spot and play Candy Land, win prizes, sample local treats, and listen to a local choir. Kids can play  Read more...

A Thanksgiving Weekend Lineup

by Jill Notkin

November 27, 2008

I know it sounds cheesy, but I happen to be one of those people who wakes up every most mornings and gives thanks for what I have in my life. I have a truly fantastic husband, two healthy and hilarious kids, and a situation that canâ??t be beat. My life is truly panning out to be a dream, and Iâ??m thankful and grateful. Happy Thanksgiving! Visit the zoo FREE the day  Read more...

A Thanksgiving Weekend Lineup

by Jill Notkin

November 27, 2008

I know it sounds cheesy, but I happen to be one of those people who wakes up every most mornings and gives thanks for what I have in my life. I have a truly fantastic husband, two healthy and hilarious kids, and a situation that canâ??t be beat. My life is truly panning out to be a dream, and Iâ??m thankful and grateful. Happy Thanksgiving! Visit the zoo FREE the day  Read more...

The Children's Museum of NH

by Jill Notkin

November 24, 2008

Now that the weather is getting colder, I think we're all wondering how we're going to pass the looong days of Winter. Sledding, skiing and snow ball fights are all wonderful ideas, but some days you just can't brave the cold. When the city seems a little bit drab, jump in the car and head north to the Children's Museum of NH . Located in Dover about 65 miles from Boston, it seems  Read more...

Wild Weekends

by Jill Notkin

November 13, 2008

Last weekend we visited the Boston Common, chose produce at the best store in town, Russo's, and hit the Upper Crust for lunch. This weekend we'll attend a birthday party and potentially hit the Children's Museum, since it's been a while since we've been there. Here are a few ideas for your family to do: Tune up your singing voice for a weekly Sing-Along at Stellabella Toys in Inman  Read more...

NYC, what is it about you?

by Jill Notkin

October 29, 2008

I would be seriously remiss to keep this information to myself. If your preschooler is as CRAZY about Thomas as mine, then you'll want to know that Thomas and Friends are going to be live at the Beacon Hill Theatre on April 17 - 19, 2009! Ok, so this theatre isn't actually in Boston per se, but every child should be exposed to New York City before the age of 6, don'cha think? This is a trip  Read more...

Imagination Inspiration

by Jill Notkin

October 14, 2008

October is all about imagination. Coming up with the perfect Halloween costume, learning about the history of the traditions surrounding the fun day requires imagination too! Sharpen their skills by bringing them to places where imagination is a requirement, and fun is too. The Museum of Science is the perfect place to ignite their minds, and the opening of the Mythic Creatures  Read more...

Wild Weekends

by Jill Notkin

October 10, 2008

Looking for some fun stuff to do this long weekend? I believe there are still tickets left for the Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus at the TD Banknorth Garden. Shows run through Monday, October 13 th so if you're looking for a fun activity, the circus is where it's at. Save 20% with the coupon code "MCC" when you buy tickets at http://www.ringling.com/ . How cool is  Read more...

Wild Weekends

by Jill Notkin

October 02, 2008

How awesome is October? Between the apple orchards being in full pickin' mode, Halloween events ramping up, and the famous Topsfield Fair hitting town (or, hitting Topsfield ), there's just so much to do. Here are a few ideas to make this weekend a great one for your family. Free Family Night at the Children's Museum of New Hampshire starts this Friday, October 3rd! From 5:30 to 8pm,  Read more...

You Say It's Your Birthday

by Jill Notkin

September 05, 2008

With two kids born 18 months apart, every 6 months we find ourselves planning another birthday party. It's easy to run out of ideas quickly and resort to inviting 15 adorable, but hyper, preschoolers to your house. Before you bite the birthday party bullet, see if any of these ideas appeal to your birthday boy or girl. The Boston Children's Museum is one of our favorite spots on any  Read more...

Wild Weekends

by Jill Notkin

August 28, 2008

It's the final August weekend!! While it's hard to believe, September does come with its own set of fun traditions such as apple picking, back-to-school events and hay rides. But before we get ahead of ourselves, let's treat our families to one last hurrah. Here's what's happening this long Labor Day weekend in and around Boston : It's the season finale for Free Friday Flicks at  Read more...

The Littlest Mermaid

by Jill Notkin

August 13, 2008

It's every little girl's fantasy to swim under the sea with their fishtail while their long hair flows from their human head. Mermaids might be fictional creatures, but with the help of this guide, you can help bring your little mermaid's fantasy to life. The Little Mermaid at the Thomas Crane Public Library . Even if it's her umpteenth time seeing this classic Disney movie,  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...

Oh, Those Summer Nights.

by Jill Notkin

July 16, 2008

Summer Nights at the Museum. Have you been waiting for the perfect time to visit the Harvard Museum of Natural History? Well, skip the bedtime routine because on Thursdays, July 17 and 31st, the museum will open its doors with half- price admission for a summer night of after-hours gallery exploration, along with a special nature documentary screening and discussion with a  Read more...

A Family Vacation Guide to Boston: Day 3

by Jill Notkin

July 10, 2008

It's your final day in Boston and you want to go out with a bang. You've found your way around the city via guided tours, visited the Harvard Museum of Natural Science , a few spray parks and walked around Harvard Square . Today you might want to choose one or two more museums that are a little lesser known than the famous Children's Museum or Museum of Science . Both are excellent  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...

Free Museum Admission!

by Jill Notkin

June 04, 2008

I remember hearing about this promotion for Bank of America customers a while ago and now seems like a great time to take advantage of it! The Museums On Us program offers free admission at 70 museums nationwide on the first weekend of every month. This offer applies to all Bank of America card holders (of any card). Since Boston definitely has days in summer that are too hot for  Read more...

How to make the Museum of Science a place your child loves.

by Jill Notkin

June 02, 2008

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. My family recently visited the museum and The Discovery Center in particular. Designed for children from birth up to age eight, this area offers a bunch of fun, hands-on  Read more...

Things you must do with your child before they grow up - Boston

by Jill Notkin

May 29, 2008

Boston is known for its rich culture, and kids culture is no exception. Here are a few examples of do-not-miss destinations with your kids before they (sniff) get too big for this stuff: Boston Children's Museum. There is nothing like the look on your child's face when they enter that bubble room or the excitement of singing with Arthur. The water room holds a certain  Read more...

Top 5 Things to do on a Rainy Day - Boston

by Jill Notkin

May 27, 2008

It's a typical scenario. You wake up in the morning on your day off from work looking forward to spending time with the kids. You stretch, grab your coffee, and look out the window. Expecting to see the sun peeking around the corner, preparing to warm the day for mindless outdoor fun, you find a grey and dismal sky. RAIN! But don't worry! While you didn't count on rain, what  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...