Car Games Keep the Whole Family Happy
Spring Break kicks off the official “road trip season.” And for trips farther than the zoo, you’ll need a few good car games up your sleeve to keep the kids too occupied to ask over and over, “How much longer?” Some of our favorites:
20 Questions
“Guessers” ask yes or no questions until they correctly guess what the “thinker” has in mind. They get 20 chances. Try to choose items that your kids will relate to – places they’ve been, people they know, books they love... And skip the old chestnut “Is it bigger than a breadbox?”
Example:
“I’m thinking of an animal.” » Read more
Ahh...Summer
Looking for something to do this weekend that bridges the gap between learning and having fun? Portland Art Museum's Sunday for Families, where the museum offers tours and family-oriented activities, has an extra special event slated for this Sunday. In the Museum's own words, "...a pachyderm-sized party in honor of the Museum's newly acquired sculpture of Ganesha-the elephant-headed, candy-loving, dancing Hindu god of yoga, wisdom, and new beginnings. » Read more
Kids Cooking Classes
If Top Chef has inspired you to start whipping up some culinary masterpieces in your own kitchen lately, maybe it's time to pass some of that culinary passion down to your kidlets. Here are some great places to take some classes that might just do the trick:
The Decorette Shop (http://www.decoretteshop.com)
Kids Cook at the Market (http://www.portlandfarmersmarket.org/sec_EventsPrograms/section/KidsCook...)
The Merry Kitchen (www.themerrykitchen.com)
Also be sure to check out the Kids Cook at the Market program at the Portland Farmers Market.
Around the Web
Is a plane ride with the kiddos in your future? A road trip, perhaps? If you're one of the oh, two or three people out there with an iPhone, you may be interested in this list of best travel iPhone apps for kids from Travel Savvy Mom:http://www.travelsavvymom.com/blog/family-travel/top-iphone-apps-for-kids. She says her six-year-old was fully entertained for six hours, plus she had no heavy carry-on to deal with. Of course, for those of us sans the 'it" gadget of the moment, coloring books and endless games of 20 questions will have to suffice.
Plue
This next bit of news is exciting for two reasons. First, we are simply happy because in these tough economic times, new store openings have become few and far between. Secondly (and more importantly) this particular new store, Plue, is just downright great.
Kid-Friendly Flower Gardens
Thanks to Better Homes & Gardens April 2009 issue for coming up with these flower ideas that are perfect for kids.
For kids who want fast results…
Fast Sprouters: Zinnias, Marigolds, Cosmos and Nasturtiums
Type: Annuals Height: From about 6 inches to 3 feet
Light: Full sun, except nasturtium which will take part shade
