Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in Washington, DC

National Children's Museum Shares Imaginative Ideas for Fun on a Budget

by Leticia

July 06, 2009

With summer here and kids out of school, it can get expensive to entertain them.  The price of admission, cost of fueling up, and snacks-whether purchased there or brought-can certainly add up!  Today's Savvy Guest is the National Children's Museum who shares tips for creating "magical moments" every day through creative, inexpensive activities that can be done at home.  The Museum encourages parents and caregivers to use their imaginations to conduct activities that support creative thinking and build lasting memories in children.

National Children's Museum Offers Tips for Making Homemade "Magic"- Museum provides families with imaginative ideas for creating fun on a budget

“It’s easy to be overwhelmed by the 24-hour-a-day, seven-days-a-week demands that go with being a parent, and you might think that you don’t have the time or money to think of new and creative activities to do with your kids,” said Linda Coulombe, Manager of Science Programs at the National Children’s Museum. “But almost every single day is filled with moments that can be extra special for you and your children – if you are looking for them.”

These “magical moments” are important for both caregivers and children. Allowing a young person to play pretend and use his imagination is an essential aspect of being a child. Caregivers should join their child in these adventures to see where together, their imaginations might take them. “Be the princess in the tower that your son saves from the dragon or be his crime busting police partner,” said Coulombe. “It is not only a good bonding activity, it will also bring out the child in you.”

The National Children’s Museum has offered the following free or low cost suggestions to help families create their own magic at home:

• Make a “magic wand” (use a wooden stick, construction paper, and glitter), then look up a few easy magic tricks and give a magic show. Make special “magic carpets” to sit on out of old rug remnants.
• Host themed dinners like “A Night in Old Mexico” or “Chinese New Year” complete with a few decorations and themed music. Add a sombrero or chop sticks.
• Make a miniature golf course in your basement. Use any kind of balls, yardsticks with sponges glued onto the ends, Frisbees, oatmeal boxes, shoe boxes, or cans.
• Have a “magical treasure box” that your children can open on rainy days. Put in small toys, ideas for fun activities, or funny jokes.
• Post riddles for children to solve on Post-It notes around the house. The first one to solve them all gets a prize, such as choosing a favorite movie to watch together.
• Start a window herb garden and then use the herbs to cook a meal together. 
• Have a “Wacky Dress-Up Day” where everyone in the family picks the most wacky clothes to wear to do chores around the house.
• Do some star gazing and adopt a favorite constellation.
• Start a never-ending bedtime story that you and your child can add to each night.
• Wear special fun hats while reading stories together. Look for funny old caps and bonnets at garage sales or thrift shops, or make your own, then start a special fun hat box.
• Build a secret clubhouse in your family room or basement out of old appliance boxes. Use old pieces of fabric for curtains, and create fun signs out of cardboard like “Wizards Only!”

Saturday Fun: PBS Super Why Play Day at Area Toys R Us Stores

by Leticia

June 12, 2009

Are you a fan of the PBS show SuperWhy like we are?  If so, Super Why is launching a great new line of educational toys and is hosting events at Toys R Us stores around the country tomorrow!  Tomorrow you can head to your local Toys“R”Us for an in-store super duper Super Why! play day that is sure to be tons of fun for your Super Reader!

Kids ages 3 and up are invited to play a Super Why Bingo Game, complete a Super Why coloring activity and listen to a Super Why story. You’ll also be treated to a hands-on Super Why toy demonstration and receive special Super Why premiums, coupons, a free mask, coloring fun sheet, and more (while supplies last)!

We usually shun character-based products in our home but have welcomed the Super Why products because of their educational value.  Our two Super Why fans received some of the new Super Why products a couple of weeks ago and they have been a huge hit ever since they arrived.  They love donning their special capes and transforming into Super Why and Princess Presto to act out scenes from their favorite episodes while holding the included Why Writer and Magic Spelling Wand.  They also like taking their Super Duper Computer into their play house and pretending they are going to the Book Club. I love watching what they have learned through the episodes through their imaginative play and like that their touch screen Super Duper Computer is filled with games that help them practice different literacy skills such as learning the alphabet, problem solving, spelling, word families, word comprehension, rhyming, and reading. 

For more details about the Super Why events in your area, click here for a listing of special events just for Super Readers in the DC Metro area and around the country.

Super Readers...to the rescue!

Super Why Play Date

• JUNE 13, 2009
• 12:00pm to 2:00pm
• Nationwide Toys"R"Us In-Store Event

Click here for more details!

Borders Kids Summer Reading Challenge

by Leticia

June 05, 2009

With summer upon us, I’m looking for a way to keep my kids busy without being overscheduled.  I also want to make sure that we do little things each day that help progress my 5 year old daughter's reading skills.  One thing that we definitely plan on doing is participating in our local library’s summer reading program and the Borders Kids Reading Challenge.

The Borders Kids Reading Challenge is for any child 12 and under.  To participate, click here to get the Reading Challenge Worksheet and sign it when your child reads 8 books.  Take the Reading Challenge Worksheet back to your local Borders store anytime before August 31 to take advantage of the 50% or more discount on your choice of items including 3 book sets by E.L. Konigsburg or the Bunnicula collection, Melissa & Doug Wooden Jigsaw Puzzles in a Box, and kits for the art enthusiast.  

For $4.99 I’d happily get our 5 year old the Drawing and Painting Horses Kit or the Melissa and Doug Puzzles for our 3 year old to maintain their enthusiasm for reading! 

Click here for more details about the Borders Kids Reading Challenge and download the Reading Challenge Worksheet by clicking here.

Tuesday List: Ways to Enjoy Unscheduled Time

by Leticia

June 02, 2009

May was probably our busiest month of the year and with the end of school coming fast and furious, June is turning out to be about the same.  I know that Beth and I are constantly writing about the many wonderful activities and things to do in the DC Metro Area but today’s Tuesday List is all about taking a step back from the crazy scheduled lives that we lead by celebrating the idea of doing nothing and enjoying unscheduled time in your yard. 

After a hectic day either at school or on the weekend, there’s nothing that our two children like to do more than play outside.  Here are some of their favorite things to do that require little preparation and minimal stuff: 

• Play with the hose
• Make bracelets or crowns out of the weed flowers that grow in the grass
• Make chalk outlines of each other
• Dig in the dirt
• Lie in the grass and stare at the clouds
• Pick flowers
• Play hide and seek
• Collect rocks, pinecones, etc.
• Look for bugs
• Gathering sticks
• Climb trees

These things are proof that kids don't need a scheduled activity all the time.  They often find creative things to do in our yard with the things that are already there and these things are testament to the fact that it  really is ok to just be.

What are some of your kids’ favorite things to do during their downtime either inside or out?   Leave a comment and let us know!

Jazz ?N Family Fun Days at the Phillips Collection

by Leticia

June 01, 2009

If you are looking to add the arts into the coming weekend, head to the Phillips Collection for Jazz ‘N Families Fun Days.  In partnership with the Duke Ellington Jazz Festival, live jazz performances will fill the museum on June 6-7 to celebrate jazz and the visual arts.  In the galleries art inspires musical interpretation as musicians interpret art through improvised sound and families visit the instrument petting zoo to interact with instruments.  Children will also have the opportunity to listen to a storyteller and create their own art while being in the intimate setting of the Phillips Collection and surrounded by masterpieces by Renoir, Pablo Picasso, Georgia O’Keefe, Marc Rothko, and many others. 

Jazz ‘N Families Fun Day is part of the annual Dupont-Kalorama Museum Walk Weekend. As part of the weekend’s festivities, you can visit other museums located in Dupont Circle and the Kalorama neighborhood that will have family programming and free admission.

Jazz ‘N Families Fun Day- Presented by the Phillips Collection

Saturday, June 6, 10 am - 5 pm 


• Click here for the full Saturday schedule and don’t miss Alona Lee’s incredible performance at the Phillips Collection at 10:00 am!

Sunday, June 7, 11 am - 6 pm

• Click here for the Sunday Duke Ellington Jazz Festival schedule.

Weekend Update

by Beth Hoffman

May 28, 2009

Ah, Spring has sprung and the mosquitoes have not.  I think that makes this the perfect weekend to get outside.  Check out the following local events:

Friday Night Live! Summer Concert Series - Every Friday until August 28th from 6:30 to 10:00 at the Herndon Town Green (777 Lynn Street).  This Friday features Black Sheep and next week is Burnt Sienna.  Food and drinks are for sale during the shows.

How Plants Work, A Guide to Being Green - This ongoing exhibit at the U.S. Botanic Garden.  It is hands-on and targeted for kids, but I think the moms and dads will enjoy it as well.

Walking Town DC - This Saturday and Sunday, Cultural Tourism DC is sponsoring 120 free walking tours around the city.  Check out their website for full details and the schedule.

Night at Mount Vernon - May 29-31 from 6:00 PM to 9:00 PM.  Watch the sunset from the lantern lit grounds and interact with historical re-enactors.  Tickets are required, see the website for more information.

Artomatic 2009 - The 10th anniversary of this event opens May 29th and last until July 5 (closed Mondays and Tuesdays) at 55 M St. SE.  This month-long art festival is free to the public.  Read more...

Tuesday List: Raising Citizens of the World

by Leticia

May 26, 2009

The DC Metro Area is a pretty diverse place.  Living here makes it easy to teach children about becoming a citizen of the world by exposing them to cultures and beliefs that differ from their own while giving them an introductory geography lesson.

Here are some ways to get started:

Visit an embassy-  You don’t have to be a dignitary to gain entrance to an embassy.  Many of the embassies offer free programming for families that is listed in The Washington Post Weekend section.  Check the For Families section for something that you think your family would like and go!  Once we went to a Marimekko exhibit at the Embassy of Finland and enjoyed learning as much about the country as we did seeing my favorite graphic florals!

Plan a global playdate- I can’t take credit for this great idea which comes courtesy my Delhi Bound friend and former Being Savvy Cleveland City Editor, Naomi.  Naomi wanted to celebrate diversity by having a global playdate.  All moms chose a country to research with their children, planned a craft, and provided a snack that went with their country.  Children were given homemade passports to get a stamp at each station.  Click here or Naomi's how to guide on creating your own global playdate.  

Choose a dinner table destination- Stuck in a dining rut and wanting to try something else for dinner?  If you are feeling super adventurous, spin the globe and put your finger on a country to choose where you are going for dinner and Google to see if there is a restaurant close by that happens to serve food from that country.  You could also put the names of your favorite ethnic restaurants on little slips of paper and have your children pull one out of a hat.  Or feel free to consult my Dinner Table Destinations: Mexico post for ways you can enjoy food from South of the Border in your own kitchen.

Attend a festival- We missed the annual Greek festival at one of the large churches on 16^th Street again this year but know that there are plenty of others.  Sometimes cruising the city, following your nose, or word of mouth is the best way to find lively cultural celebrations.

Listen to music- We love the Putumayo Kids line for fun musical tours that take us all over the world but don’t require packing a suitcase, a visa, or a lengthy flight.  The newest CD, European Playground, features music from Finland, Sweden, Belgium, England, Denmark, Hungary, France, Greece, Portugal, German, Scotland, Netherlands, Spain, Switzerland, Italy, and Ireland.  We also like the Global Wonders CD and DVDseries.

Merrifield Garden Center

by Beth Hoffman

May 23, 2009

Ah, Spring, when a young suburbanite's fancy turns to thoughts of mulch.  Do you constantly smell like mulch these days, even three showers past your last stint in the garden, or is that just me?  Last weekend, to get a break from the weeding and the mulching, we went to the garden center to buy some new plants for all those bare spots that were formerly covered by weeds.  We had a two-year-old gift certificate to Merrifield Garden Center, so we decided to head over there and put it to use.  We went to the new place near Fair Oaks, not the original in Merrifield.  And wow, this place blows my regular nursery out of the water.

We had both kids with us, of course, and they had a blast.  The toddler was in the backpack, saying hello to all of our fellow patrions, and straining for handfuls of any plant I got him too close to.  The preschooler ran all over the place admiring the plants, debating the best azalea colors, helping me pick tomatoes based entirely on their pictures and/or funny names, and getting an impromptu education on the difference between annuals and perennials, evergreen and deciduous, indoor and outdoor plants, and why in the heck we needed all that mulch anyway. 

I never thought a trip to the nursery with the kids would be anything but a hassle, but it was actually a lot of fun to go through all the plants with the kids, and Merrifield was a great place to do it.  It's huge, well organized, well stocked, and has plenty of wagons to dump the kids in when they get tired of tearing up and down the rows of rhododendrons.  So brush up on your plant identification skills, or just keep a sharp eye out for the tags, and take the kids to the garden center for a free field trip and ecology or biology lesson.
 Read more...

Ice Cream and Entertainment

by Beth Hoffman

May 20, 2009

Now that the weather is occasionally warmer, a lot of preschooler energy in my house has been directed to two things: when the neighborhood pool will open, and when we can go out for ice cream.  Really, my daughter prefers the ice cream man to heading out to an ice cream parlor, but the ice cream man who cruises our neighborhood has a truck that plays "La Cucaracha," and I have a hard time buying food from any place that so blatantly advertises cockroaches.  So during the summer, we sometimes venture out to one of the many local ice cream shops.  Now, when I was a kid growing up in Northern Virginia, you had Baskin Robbins and you liked it.  There were none of this Ben and Jerry's, Cold Stone, Milwaukee Frozen Custard, etc., options.  We've tried them all, and we always end up at the same place. 

We go to the Baskin Robbins at North Point in Reston.  Not because if the ice cream, which is fine, always makes the kids happy, whatever, but because of the entertainment.  When the weather is warm, the plaza in front of the store is the frequent haunt of a man with a friendly dog and a bird (I think it is a cockatoo) who wears a cape and a helmet and rides around the shopping center on an RC car.  My daughter is mad for both the dog and the bird and always holds long conversations with both whenever she sees them.  We get to have all sorts of interesting conversations with her, starting with why she should avoid strange animals, of course, but then touching on animal training and positive reinforcement and the sometimes very subtle differences between pets and wild animals.

So the next time you are in the market for a family ice cream outing, stop by Reston and check out the floor show.  And if you see me, be sure to say hello.  I'll be the one with strawberry ice cream in my hair.  (Neither child has mastered the concept of a napkin.)  Read more...

Free Saturday Activities at National Harbor's American Market

by Leticia

May 08, 2009

The National Children's Museum will once again present free outdoor family friendly programs at National Harbor’s American Market, a farmer’s market featuring regional vendors showcasing produce, pastries, crafts, artwork, fashion, and more.

Every Saturday, the Museum offers a variety of fun, hands-on activities for kids and families at American Market, hosted at the site of the Museum’s future location at National Harbor.  The activities correspond with programs taking place at the new National Children’s Museum Launch Zone at National Harbor, a space where kids can prototype exhibit components and programs and share their ideas about what should be included in the new Museum.

American Market activities will be held at 150 American Way, National Harbor, MD 20745 every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. with the last one being on September 5, 2009.

The upcoming event schedule is as follows:

May 9 – Join a journey into the future at the Launch Zone! Become a part of the story and help a slightly mad scientist travel in time to learn about the future of our planet. After the show, create your very own fashion masterpiece using recycled water bottles and funky vinyl stickers, then enjoy more fun recycling activities outdoors at American Market.

May 16 – Design your own personal seal at American Market to finalize your “scroll” created at the Launch Zone’s Let’s Make Rules and Kids’ Congress program.

May 23 – Do you know how to be sun-wise when going to the beach? Learn cool ways to enjoy the sun and protect yourself before experiencing the sun’s rays at the Launch Zone, then find some shade under the trees on American Way and continue to be sun-wise.

May 30 – Enjoy the original children’s theater performance “The Truth About Bunny and Puppet Studio” at the Launch Zone, then explore more puppets at American Market.

June 6 – Learn about making better food choices and increasing your physical activity with fun activities for the “Ways to Enhance Children’s Activity and Nutrition” program also known as We Can! ™ at American Market.

June 13 – Make your own easy birdfeeder so you can help feed birds and learn about what different birds eat during Feed the Birds at American Market.

June 20 – People in our community do many unique things. Recognize your special hero by designing and decorating a badge for him or her during Hero Badges.

June 27 – Make a firefly glow-in-the-dark night landscape to celebrate the launch of our website, “Ready, Set, Glow!” during Fireflies in the Night Sky.

To visit the NCM Launch Zone, head to 112 Waterfront St., National Harbor, MD 20745

Tuesday List: Ways to Celebrate Trains

by Leticia

May 05, 2009

Did you know that this Saturday, May 9 is National Train Day?  On Saturday, Amtrak will be celebrating America’s love for rail travel and 140 years of train travel throughout the country at the 2nd Annual National Train Day event at Union Station from 10 am to 3 pm.  All activities are free and include an appearance by American Idol Judge, Randy Jackson, who will be there to help celebrate.  Other festivities include Radio Disney, magicians, face painters, and train exhibits.  Trains, such as The Georgia 300, President Obama’s historic inaugural private train car, and The Dover Harbor will be on display for all to see. If you are train lovers like we are, this free event will make your day! 

If you aren’t able to make it but love all things trains, there are many other ways you can celebrate a love of trains throughout the year:

• Take a day trip to the B&O Railroad Museum and ride the first mile of track that was laid in the United States.
• Pick up a copy of Rocknoceros’ new CD, PINK! and rock out to The Train Song while pretending to be Diamond Stone.
• Visit the National Museum of American History to visit an electric streetcar, railroad track signal, and steam locomotives like the John Bull or Southern Railway 1401.  You can also hop aboard an El. 
• Learn about the trains online.  Get to know the lingo with this glossary of terms and view business cars, coaches, lounges, sleepers, and sleeper/lounge cars here.
• Why not ride the rails.  In honor of National Train Day, Amtrak riders will earn double Amtrak Guest Rewards® points on each of the first four Amtrak train trips and triple points for the fifth trip and beyond, from March 16 through May 8, 2009.  Plus, earn quadruple points for any trip taken on National Train Day, Saturday, May 9, 2009. 

For additional suggestions of things you can do with your children, please visit my Being Savvy post about Trains and Other Modes of Transportation on Rails for train-related activities in the immediate DC Metro Area and beyond, along with my reading list of books about trains.

Weekend Picks: Fun, Free Family Fun!

by Leticia

April 23, 2009

Nothing to do this weekend?  Other than getting outside and enjoying the beautiful spring weather we are supposed to have after the last few rainy days, here are my weekend picks for some great free family fun.

Maryland Day

Saturday 10-4 pm
University of Maryland, College Park

This popular free family friendly event is UMD’s open house that is filled with learning, exploration, and fun.  Choose activities among the various themes:  Science & Tech Way, Arts Alley, Sports & Rec Row, Biz & Society Hill, Terp Town Center, Ag Day Avenue, and Global Village.  UMD will have over 400 hands on activities, workshops, events, and performances so there will be something to please everyone in your family.  Click here for a list of events especially designed for kids. 

Celebrate Earth Day with the Montgomery County Division of Solid Waste Services

Saturday 11-3 pm
850 Hungerford Drive, Rockville, MD  20850

Catch a bus every 15 minutes to tour the county’s recycling center, get a free Leafgro and compost bin, make Earth Friendly crafts, bring your jeans and other denim clothing to repurpose into home insulation, bring your personal documents for on site shredding, and learn more about environmentall friendly homes, recycling and waste reduction, and purchasing recycled products.

Grand Opening of National Children’s Museum Launch Zone

Saturday, April 25, and Sunday, April 26, 2009, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m
NCM Launch Zone, 112 Waterfront Street, National Harbor, MD 20745

Open to the public seven days a week, the Launch Zone is a place where children can prototype exhibit components and programs, share their ideas about what should be included in the new Museum, and participate in fun and educational programs related to the Museum’s core content areas.  On Saturday festivities will feature recycled art activities, face painting, chalk art, food, and an original, interactive performance by the Museum, The Adventures of Wally the Water Bottle. Performances will take place at 11:30 a.m., 1 p.m., 2 p.m., and 3 p.m.  On Sunday, April 26, the celebration continues with recycled and chalk art activities, face painting, balloon creations, treats, and a special performance – Sea Revels – by cultural performance organization, the Washington Revels. Performances will take place at the Main Stage at National Harbor at 2:30 p.m. and 4 p.m.

Weekend Getaway: Charlottesville, Virginia

by Leticia

April 13, 2009

If you are craving to get away from the Beltway, politics, and enjoy some different scenery, head a couple hours south to Charlottesville.  Charlottesville is known as the home of the University of Virginia, Thomas Jefferson’s Monticello, James Monroe’s Ash Lawn Highland, and Michie Tavern.   While it best known as a college town that is filled with history, Charlottesville is also a family friendly place with plenty of fabulous food and room to run that makes a wonderful weekend getaway or even a day trip. 

Here’s a quick guide of some things to do when in the Charlottesville area:

Room to Run:

• Right around UVAs Rotunda is a wide expanse of grass perfect for a game of Frisbee, bubble blowing, kite flying, or just plain roaming.  Off to the sides of the grass are some fabulous old trees with low branches that are just right for climbing. 
• At the end of the Downtown Mall by the Visitor’s Center is a large amphitheater with a large stage.  Our kids loved running up and down the aisles, between the chairs, and up the ramp to the stage.
• There are also numerous parks in Charlottesville.  For the locations and details about the city parks, click here. 

Things to See:

• If you want to integrate a little history lesson into your visit to Charlottesville, head to Monticello.  Home to Thomas Jefferson, Monticello boasts many amenities that make it family friendly.  Skilled guides tell you everything you need to know about President Jefferson’s home in 30 minutes, which is the perfect length for those 6 and under.   Make sure to allocate plenty of time for roaming the grounds and gardens.  Monticello also boasts a brand new visitor’s center complete with a café, hands-on Griffin Discovery Room for children, and family restrooms.  For a list of family friendly activities at Monticello, come back tomorrow when I cover it as a Tuesday List topic.
• The Virginia Discovery Museum is the perfect place for the 10 and under set.  With plenty of hands on exhibits to delight kids, wallet friendly admission ($4 per person), and in and out privileges, this is a must do.  For rates and hours, click here.  Also know that the first Sunday of the month is pay-as-you-wish day! 
• Right in front of the Discovery Museum is a great chalk wall for channeling your inner artist and a 1920 push carousel.  The scaled down carousel is more like a merry go round because parents have to push their kids but it is a fun free ride that our kids didn’t want to leave!

Cheap Must Eats:

• On the Downtown Mall, stop at Christian’s Pizza whose tasty flavor combinations on the most crisp crust remind me of true New York pizza. 
• On the back side of the Downtown Mall is The Flat (closed Sundays and Mondays) which serves huge sweet and savory crepes.  My pick is the ham, brie, and apples but you can choose one of their flavor combinations or create your own. 
• Located in the shopping area known as the Corner (across the street from the Rotunda) Arch’s frozen yogurt serves up delicious flavor combinations.   
• For snacks and other restaurants, stop anywhere on 29 which you took into Charlottesville to find Whole Foods, Kroger’s Grocery, Giant, and lots of restaurants.

Saturday Easter Events at Your Giant Food Store

by Leticia

April 10, 2009

Easter is almost here and if you have a few last minute items to pick up this weekend, do your shopping at any Giant Food store this Saturday, April 11 and take your kids.  Yes, take your children.  I really just wrote that!  Normally I enjoy solo grocery shopping trips on the weekend but Giant has some fun stuff planned for the kids this Saturday from 11-4 pm.

With Easter egg hunts down the aisles, Easter basket raffles, tastings of Easter sweets throughout the day, and Easter egg cookie decorating, grocery shopping has never sounded more fun! 

For specific times for the aforementioned events, consult your local Giant Food store.  

Weekend Update

by Beth Hoffman

April 09, 2009

Here are a few kid-friendly events coming up this weekend.

Easter Egg-stravaganza at Woodrow Wilson House - Saturday, April 11 from 1-3 PM.  It seems President Wilson used to enjoy standing at the South Portico of the White House and watching the Easter egg-roll on the White House lawn.  To honor that tradition, the Wilson House is holding their first annual egg-roll in the garden.  Admission is pricey, $25 for adults and $10 for children over 2, but if you missed the ticket for the White House egg-roll (like most of us did), it might be a good substitute.  The Wilson House is located at 2340 S Street, NW.

National Cherry Blossom Festival Fireworks Show - Saturday, April 11 from 8:30-9:00 PM.  The last hurrah of this year's Cherry Blossom Festival starts with a three hour festival (stating at 5:00 PM), includes musical performances, kid craft activities, and food from local restaurants.  Rain or Shine at the Southwest Waterfront, 7th Street and Maine Ave, SW.

Washington Nationals Home Opener - Monday, April 13 at 3:05 PM, Tuesday, April 14 and Wednesday, April 15 at 7:05 PM.  Take them out to the ballpark before the heat and humidity of summer arrive.  The Nats are playing the Phillies in a three-game home stand to open the season.  For the little ones, check out the Kids Page of the Nationals website for kid-friendly information about the mascot, baseball, and chances for kids to get out and run the bases after select Sunday games.  Nationals Park is located at 1500 S. Capital Street, SE.  Green Line to Navy Yard or park at RFK and take the shuttle.  Read more...

National Children's Museum Presents Kids? Potomac River Clean-Up Day

by Leticia

April 03, 2009

April 22 is Earth Day but there’s no reason why you have to wait until then to celebrate taking care of our Earth and teach your children to care for the environment.  

Why not start on April 4 when the National Children’s Museum (NCM) present san exciting day of environmentally friendly children’s programming during Kids’ River Clean-Up Day at the Accokeek Colonial Farm.  The day will feature an interactive puppet show and river clean-up.  Families can follow The Adventures of Wally the Water Bottle, an original performance by the NCM, as Wally is accidentally washed into a river. Following the puppet show, families can participate in a real river clean-up at a special kids’ site on the Potomac riverbank, and attend a closing awards ceremony. Kids’ River Clean-Up Day is from 10 a.m. to Noon and best for children ages four and up.

To register for Kids’ River Clean-Up Day, contact Tricia Hardin at the Accokeek Foundation at 301-283-2113 ext. 12.

For additional information, visit the National Children's Museum or Accokeek Colonial Farm websites.  

Weekend Update

by Beth Hoffman

April 02, 2009

Here are some of the kid-friendly goings-on about town this weekend.

National Cherry Blossom Festival Parade:  Saturday starting at 10 AM.  It happens every year, it is a madhouse every year, and you will spend the day begging your children not to touch the cherry trees (it is bad for them, remind the tourists, would you?), but it is also the most beautiful time of year to be downtown and a heck of a lot of fun for the kids.  Alex Trebek is the Grand Marshall this year, there are musical guests that I have never heard of but who will surely delight the tween set, the DC Roller Derby Skaters, performances from two Broadway shows, and, of course, Elmo.  Take Metro, pack snacks, the kids will love it.

Rainforest Alive! at Discovery Theater:  Special family performance at noon Saturday.  Got a critter lover?  This live animal show features a boa constrictor, caiman crocodile, iguana, and other rainforest animals.  The Saturday show is followed by a reception with "Earth-friendly treats."

Our Ocean Planet at National Aquarium in Baltimore:  Saturday and Sunday 11 AM to 3:30 PM.  The Baltimore Aquarium introduces a new dolphin show this weekend with special events including games, face painting, and a "build a dolphin" activity.

Polar Weekend at the Maryland Science Center:  Saturday and Sunday 10 AM to 6 PM.  Tired of the warmer weather?  Missing the winter chill?  Check out the cold weather tents, displays of cold weather animals and a polar science fair at the Maryland Science Center.  Anyone else think they should have saved this for August?  Read more...

The Great Space Junk Hunt of 2009

by Beth Hoffman

April 01, 2009

Did you hear about the fireball that some people saw in the skies over our are on Sunday night?  On Monday, officials were saying that it was caused by a Russian rocket booster re-entering the atmosphere.  Tuesday brought the news that the rocket really fell to earth near Taiwan and that what we had was a meteor.  Either way, I think it is the perfect opportunity to take the kids out for a space junk hunt.  All reports agree that you aren't going to find any space junk around here, no matter what the cause of those lights in the sky, but it is still a chance to explain all sorts of things to the kids while getting out to enjoy the Spring weather.  For the younger kids, try little rocks that fall from space and bounce off the atmosphere.  (For that matter, maybe you should start with explaining the atmosphere.)  Older kids can learn fun new words like geosynchronous orbit.  And kids of all ages can enjoy tromping through the woods imagining that a decaying pinecone of shiny scrap of soda can are really treasures from outer space.  Read more...

Free Family Activities at the Cherry Blossom Festival

by Leticia

March 27, 2009

It is that time of year when we become blossom watchers, anxiously awaiting the peak of the cherry blossoms.  The beautiful pink blossoms are always a sight to behold whether you are admiring the blooms in your neighborhood or around the Jefferson Memorial. 

As in past years, the National Children’s Museum (NCM) will be presenting free family activities at the National Cherry Blossom Festival Family Day with the National Building Museum on March 28. Families are invited to celebrate the fourth annual opening of Washington, DC’s cherry blossom season during this celebration that will feature hands-on activities, martial arts demonstrations, and captivating indoor and outdoor performances exploring Japanese art and design.  Activities will be from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

For additional information, visit the National Children's Museum or the National Cherry Blossom official website. 

2009 White House Easter Egg Roll

by Beth Hoffman

March 26, 2009

So, are you spending all day today refreshing the 2009 White House Easter Egg Roll ticketing website, or is that just me?  No luck, so far for me.  They are releasing tickets in blocks throughout the day, but the times are not published so you just have to guess and get lucky.  I suppose this is more convenient for most of us than thronging the Ellipse for tickets, but at least then you can see how many people are ahead of you and what your chances aire.  Anyway, since I am dedicating so much time to running over to my laptop to hit F5, I thought I would share some fun facts about the White House Easter Egg Roll, for anyone else out there who is spending far too much time on this today.

From the White House's Easter Egg Roll website:

• The White House Easter Egg Roll will be held on Monday, April 13, 2009 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the South Lawn of the White House.
• The theme for this year's egg hunt is "Let's Go Play."  Do you think that means President Obama will be on hand to play "Wizard of Oz" with my three year old for nine straight hours?
• The first White House Easter Egg Roll was in 1878.
• This is the first time that tickets have been distributed online.

(Refresh.  Refresh.  Refresh.)

 Good luck if you are trying for tickets!

Tuesday List: Best Places to Picnic

by Leticia

March 24, 2009

With the weather turning warmer, our thoughts turn from being inside to spending as much time as humanly possible outside.  One thing we love to do is to picnic.  On the weekends we take our cooler stuffed with food with us on outings for an al fresco lunch.  Picnics are great not only because we are spending more time outside but the crumbs that drive me crazy at the kitchen table help the local ecosystem.

Here are our favorite places to picnic:

National Zoo (DC)- We’ve picnicked all over the Zoo.  Outside the Bird House, in the giant meadow between the Ape House and Reptile Discovery Center, on Lion and Tiger Hill, while watching the seals, and off the path leading behind the Ape House.  In our opinion, there aren’t any truly bad places to picnic at the zoo and often times our picnic location is determined by when hunger strikes!   

Smithsonian Castle (DC)- Behind the Smithsonian Castle is a picnic oasis.  Bubbling fountains, beautifully manicured grounds, shady trees, and benches make this a perfect spot to grab a bite between museums.  And it’s not too far from the carousel in case a post-lunch carousel ride is in order.

Wheaton Regional Park(Wheaton, MD)- With plenty of room to run, tons of climbing structures, the miniature train, and carousel, Wheaton Regional Park becomes not just a picnic spot but a day trip.  With plenty of parking, you can keep your lunch in the car until the kids are worn out and need a bite to eat before it is off to play again.

Gravelly Point Park (end of National Airport runway)- What can be better than eating lunch while watching boats on the river, an endless stream of bicycles, and planes take off or land overhead during your picnic?  Gravelly Point Park has free parking and endless entertainment.  There’s also lots of grass so on a windy day, it makes a great place to fly a kite.

Butler’s Orchard (Germantown, MD)- When summer comes and we head out berry picking, we supplement our berry eating with an actual lunch.  While shade can sometimes be hard to find, we like eating our lunch between the boysenberry bushes or down by the farm stand under the shady trees you pass as you drive in.

Great Falls (the Maryland side)- Something about being surrounded by water always makes it seem much cooler at Great Falls, even in the hot steamy summer months.  We like to go for walks and pack lunch in a backpack so we can eat whenever we get hungry.  A rock usually does just fine as a seat or if you’d like, there are picnic tables by the Visitor Center.  If you don’t pack a lunch or grab something on your way, you can always get a bite to eat at the snack bar between the months of March and November.

Quiet Waters Park (Anne Arundel County, MD)- For a day trip away from the city, head to Quiet Waters Park, just south of Annapolis.  There you can easily spend the day between playing on the playground, visiting the gardens, or renting a canoe or kayak for a couple of hours.  With all that activity, you have to eat and luckily, there are plenty of places to do so.

Federal Hill Park (Baltimore)- Whenever we are in Baltimore, we love to head to Cross Street Market to select our eats among a variety of different food stalls (sushi and the fried chicken are my faves!) before heading to Federal Hill Park.  The park overlooks the Harbor on one side and off in the distance you can see a huge white mountain of salt not too far away from the large Domino Sugar sign and plant.  The fenced in area with the playground is dog-free and has a climbing structure, plenty of grass, and swings that are hugely popular.  And sometimes it is just fun to lie in the grass and watch the huge flag blow in the breeze overhead.

Elephants on Parade as the Circus Arrives in DC!

by Leticia

March 13, 2009

Every year when Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® heads into DC, everyone eagerly anticipates information about the Elephant Walk. The famed walk happens as the elephants exit the train at Union Station and walk around Capitol Hill, making for an outstanding parade as they meander over to the Verizon Center.

This year the pachyderm parade will celebrate St. Patrick’s Day as the animals walk to the beat of a bagpiper.  The walk will be held on Tuesday, March 17, 2009 at 10:00 a.m. but due to unpredictable train schedules, the starting time and route are subject to change.  The best way to get up to the latest information is to call the Animal Walk Hotline (866-683-3640 or 866-683-3650) for continuous updates.

The walk celebrates the arrival of Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Over The Top show which is coming to DC for five weeks of wacky and whimsical circus spectaculars.  Over the Top’s biggest stars will also march on Capitol Hill in their St. Patty’s Day best.  Showing their true green spirit, the Pachyderms will parade behind the Capitol to the sound of bagpipes.

Want to watch the pachyderm parade?  The route for the animal walk is as follows:

• East on Virginia Ave SE (By Garfield Park)
• North on 4th Street, SE to East Capitol Street
• Continue north on 4th Street, NE to Stanton Park
• Continue west on Massachusetts Ave, NE to Columbus Circle, NW in front
• of Union Station. 
• Columbus Circle, NW to E Street, NW. 
• 3rd Street, NW to G Street, NW to the Verizon Center

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® OVER THE TOP show will be at these DC area venues on the following dates:

• March 19 – 22, Verizon Center in Washington, D.C.
• March 25 – April 5, 1st Mariner Arena in Baltimore, Md.
• April 8 – 19, Patriot Center in Fairfax, VA

If you are excited about going to the circus and haven't gotten your tickets yet, I'll hook you up with 4 tickets for $44! Click here to read my previous post about the circus that contains information about how the discount and treat your family to a special circus outing without breaking the bank.

Coming Attractions

by Beth Hoffman

March 12, 2009

Here are a few options if you are looking for things to do with the kids this weekend.

NSO Community Music & Arts Festival at THEARC.  This event takes place from 10AM to 2 PM and all ages are welcome.  There's a concert at 10AM targeted to 3-6 years olds, who are invited to bring their teddy bears.  At 11, there's a musical instrument "petting zoo," an appearance by Maestro Mouse, face painting, balloon artists, and more, and finally a full orchestra family concert at 1 PM.  Admission is free, but you do need tickets, so hit the website for more info.

Pi Day at the Maryland Science Center.  Planning to be near the Inner Harbor?  Check out Pi Day at the Maryland Science Center from noon to four.  Entrance is free with paid admission and they are offering pie, a Pi memorization contest and a hula hoop contest.  (Let's see.... 3.14159.... I'm out.  Who can beat me?)  It's Einstein's birthday too, so you can take a shot at explaining relativity to your preschooler.  I wish you luck on that one.

Elephant Walk through D.C.  The circus is coming!  The circus is coming!  And at 10AM Tuesday (weather permitting), the elephants are coming to take a stroll through the streets of D.C. from Garfield Place to the Verizon Center.  They're even bringing a bagpiper in honor of St. Patrick's Day.  I'm definitely heading downtown for this one, I think the sight of elephants walking down city streets will blow my three-year-old's mind.  Read more...

Tuesday List: Best Fountains to Make a Wish

by Leticia

March 10, 2009

With spring upon us, we are about ready to seek out blooming spring bulbs and some bubbling fountains.  We are extremely fortunate to have many gorgeous fountains to choose from as almost free entertainment.  It just depends how many fistfuls of pennies we bring to pitch into the water below.

Here are some of our favorites:

• The Bartholdi Fountain at the U.S. Botanical Gardens 
• Freedom Plaza in front of the Willard Hotel on Pennsylvania Avenue by the White House
• The National Arboretum
• Lower level of Columbia Mall by Lord & Taylor
• Between Union Station and the Capitol Building
• Outside the National Cathedral
• National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden
• The Garden Pool in the Smithsonian Castle Gardens
• Brookside Gardens in Wheaton, MD
• Meadowlark Gardens in Northern Virginia

What are your favorite fountains in the DC Metro Area?  Please leave a comment to add to the list!

Coming Attractions

by Beth Hoffman

March 05, 2009

Looking for things to do with the kids this weekend?  Here are a few of the events and activities happening around town.\

Smuckers Stars on Ice at the Verizon Center (District)
Ok, so I'm cutting this one a bit close since the show is Friday night (3/6 at 6:30 PM), but I mention it for two reasons.  First, it features Michael Weiss, who I went to high school with.  Well, who attended my high school at the same time I did, not that I ever clapped eyes on him.  Second, when I first read the press release I thought it said the show featured Michael Phelps, and I had such fun trying to envision how that would work that I just had to share.  Also, ice skating is strangely captivating for many of the preschoolers I know, maybe yours feels the same way.

Majestic Eagles at Mason Neck State Park (Lorton, VA)
If you want to head to the park this weekend (the weather is supposed to be fabulous), they are running an educational program about bald eagles and will loan you binoculars and a spotting scope so you can try to sneak a peak of one in the wild.  Good excuse to get outside and enjoy our early Spring.

Shushan Street Festival, a Purim Party (District)
The District of Columbia Jewish Community Center is holding a Purim Party this Sunday from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM.  Wear costumes, catch a puppet parade and puppet show, and join the dance party.  $15 per family, tickets available at the door.

Zomo at the Zoo (district)
Have you heard about "Zomo the Rabbit: A Hip-Hop Creation Myth" at Imagination Stage?  Well the zoo is hosting a bunch of activities based on the show at the Kid's Farm this weekend.  Admission is free, and be sure to take advantage of a less-crowded winter time trip to visit the animals while you are there.

A Being Savvy Look Back at Math Activities for Your Child

by Leticia

March 03, 2009

Math is all around us although it doesn't always seem like it to your child.  If you want to incorporate some more math into your everyday activities, here are a list of fun things you can do that are a far cry from the statistics, algebra, and geometry that they will meet in their later years. 

Besides my list of savvy pre-math activities, the following fabulous posts written by fellow Being Savvy City Editors will make math fun:

• Being Savvy Halifax’s Raechelle Masuda has a list of ideas to get your preschooler counting.
• Vancouver’s Gwen Floyd writes about math with manipulatives like pattern blogs and Legos for some hands on fun.
• Laura Stallard Petza of Being Savvy Baltimore wrote about math at the 32^nd Street Farmer’s Market.  Take a little trip up 95 with her guide to let your child test out their knowledge of money like counting, making change, and spending or use her ideas at your local farmers' market or neighborhood grocery store.
• Music and math?  Indeed!  Being Savvy Austin’s Nicole Basham explores the links between music and math with through her interview with Petra Soltis, Early Childhood Coordinator at the Austin Lyric Opera’s Armstrong School of Music. 
• There are lots of posts about money including Nicole Teed’s review of the Lunch Money album on Being Savvy Charleston, a guide to introducing your child to money by Amy Mumper in Cincinnati, a review of the Preschool Money Manager by Naomi from Being Savvy Cleveland, and a post called Money Makes the World Go Around by Jenny Meade from Being Savvy Kansas City.
• For tips on teaching to tell time, check out Being Savvy Dallas.  Or wow your kids with your knowledge of clock facts compiled by Milwaukee’s Amy Jo Jones.  Then take a trip to a couple hours north where Cecily Kellogg tells you the best Philly landmarks with clocks.
• And math is everywhere!  Shauna Reynolds of Being Savvy Nashville finds it at the park, West LA’s Susan Choi finds it when shoe shopping, and Jennifer Signore (Pittsburg) finds it around the neighborhood and on the mini golf course. It's also part of bowling according to San Antonio editors Emily and Colleen Pence, and a big part of any baseball game whether you are rooting for the Nats, Os, Tampa, or Tuscon!
• Math is also embedded in many favorite stories.  Terese Farmen from our San Diego site shares her favorites here while our Toronto City Editor, Katie, lists some of best counting songs and rhymes in her post.

With all of these great ideas from the Being Savvy City Editors, your child will be ready for algebra in kindergarten!   

99 Things To Do in DC

by Leticia

February 24, 2009

In no particular order, here’s a list of 99 things to do in the DC Metro Area with a child before they grow up:

1. Head out the night before and brave the elements to obtain coveted tickets to the White House Easter Egg Roll
2. Witness the beauty of the cherry blossoms at the Jefferson Memorial at their peak 
3. Go kayaking at Mason Neck State Park in Virginia since it is a great place to spot a bald eagle 
4. Step back in time and go on a canal boat ride in Great Falls or Georgetown 
5. After dinner and a bath, take your PJ-clad child on a tour of the Monuments at night
6. Appreciate the grandeur of the interior space of the National Building Museum then head to the Building Zone to satisfy your child’s inner Bob the Builder 
7. Play at Turtle Park and don’t miss Turtle Park Day  
8. Attend a performance at Glen Echo Puppet Theater 
9. Catch a show at Glen Echo Adventure Theater, DC’s longest running children’s theater 
10. Take a spin on the Glen Echo Carousel and witness the amazing Wurlitzer band organ 
11. Witness air acrobatics at Bealeton Airport Flying Circus 
12. Choose a local farm, bring your own containers, and an appetite to spend a couple hours berry picking
13. Introduce your child to the wonders of live performances at Wolf Trap Theater in the Woods 
14. Attend afternoon high tea at Strathmore Mansion 
15. Witness the power of water at Great Falls
16. Take a seat at the end of the runway at National Airport’s Gravelly Point and watch airplanes zoom overhead 
17. Explore all areas of the National Zoo, including the naked mole rats
18. Feed the koi at the National Arboretum
19. Ponder what George Washington used to think about while sitting on his back porch on Mount Vernon high above the Potomac River 
20. Ride the train and feed the trash pig (a trash can that talks when you throw garbage in it) at Cabin John Park 
21. Throw rocks in Rock Creek
22. Hike part of the Billy Goat Trail 
23. Spend time in the woods just exploring
24. Go camping at a local campground for the weekend
25. Bike the Monuments and the sights of The Mall
26. Go to Sky Meadows State Park for Astronomy Day or a Saturday Star Party
27. Let a butterfly land on you at the Wings of Fancy exhibit at Brookside Gardens 
28. Attend the Maryland Sheep and Wool Festival to witness sheep shearing, partake in the fabulous lamb sold at the concession stands, and be dazzled by all the beautiful hand knit items for sale by vendors 
29. Experience the plethora of fried goods, carnival rides, and animals at a County fair
30. Have a hands on learning day at Port Discovery 
31. Go train crazy at the B&O Railroad Museum 
32. Go plane crazy at the College Park Aviation Museum 
33. Have a cultural experience at an Embassy
34. Ride a restored DC trolley car at the National Capital Trolley Museum 
35. Hunt for shark teeth at Calvert Cliffs State Park 
36. Hum The Star Spangled Banner while paying tribute to the inspiration for our National Anthem during a visit to Fort McHenry 
37. Step back in time to 1771 at Claude Moore Historical Farm 
38. Attend Claude Moore Historical Farm’s Market Fair offered three weekends a year 
39. Engage in hands on science at Discovery Creek Children’s Museum 
40. Enjoy more hands on science fun at the Maryland Science Center 
41. Stare in awe at the most amazing stained glass rosettes at the National Cathedral 
42. Stare in awe at sheets of uncut money at the Bureau of Engraving and Printing 
43. Stare in awe as you take in the scenery from the top of the Washington Monument 
44. Explore every corner of the 2 acre Clemyjontri Park 
45. Procure tickets to an afternoon performance of Cirque du Soleil and witness acrobatics like you’ve never seen before 
46. Cruise the Potomac
47. Attend Art-o-Matic, the free art festival featuring paintings, sculpture, photography, music, theater, poetry, dance and workshops 
48. Visit Cunningham Falls
49. Attend the lighting of the National Christmas Tree
50. Visit the bonfire on the Ellipse during the holidays
51. Catch Vienna based kid rock band, Rocknoceros, in concert for music the whole family will enjoy
52. Join up with Stroller Strides for a great workout and fun scenery and songs for your kiddo
53. Attend the Smithsonian Folklife Festival
54. Marvel at Jim Henson’s creations, First Ladies gowns, and the ruby slippers at the Museum of American History
55. Give your child unrestricted access to the hose one hot humid summer afternoon
56. Go swimming at an indoor pool in the middle of winter
57. Cool off at an ice skating rink during the summer
58. Be a pirate for a day 
59. Visit Meadowlark Gardens 
60. Begin to culture a love of art with a visit to the National Portrait Gallery or National Gallery 
61. Catch a summer movie outside under the stars at the Strathmore Film Fest or Screen on the Green
62. Practice using chop sticks at dim sum 
63. Go fishing 
64. Root for the home team at an O’s or Nat’s game
65. Pretend to be a rocket scientist at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center 
66. Go apple picking
67. Take advantage of Free for All Fridays classes at the Roundhouse Theater 
68. See the sights in the snow
69. Visit rescued owls and experience the cave slide at Meadowside Nature Center
70. Enjoy the spectacle of a Chinese New Year’s parade
71. Root for the Ravens or the Redskins either live or on TV
72. Have a SmartTrip card and know how to swipe it to ride the Metro
73. Know which Metro station is closest to home
74. Marvel at the sculptures in the National Gallery Sculpture Garden
75. Seen the inspiration for the Star Spangled Banner at the Museum of American History
76. Witnessed the grandeur of the space shuttle at Udvar Hazy
77. Indulge in a hot dog at Ben’s Chili Bowl
78. Visit all the monuments on the National Mall
79. Write a letter and mail it from the National Postal Museum
80. Visit Roosevelt Island 
81. Walk among the dinosaurs or visit the butterflies at the National Museum of Natural History
82. Visit the butterflies at the National Museum of Natural History
83. Have an ice cream themed birthday party and create your own flavor of ice cream at Moorenko’s
84. Go spelunking at Luray Caverns 
85. Rock out with your kids while sipping coffee at Jammin’ Java 
86. Go on a tour of the White House with tickets from your local Member of Congress
87. Visit an aquarium- either in Baltimore or the one right here in DC!
88. Cool off at Deep Creek Lake
89. Test furniture at IKEA until you get a craving for meatballs and lingonberry sauce
90. Visit a lighthouse
91. Practice espionage at the International Spy Museum
92. Go fly a kite at the Smithsonian Kite Festival on the Washington Monument grounds 
93. Gaze at the stars at the Rock Creek Planetarium 
94. Enjoy a free summer concert at Carter Barron Amphitheater 
95. Watch the tennis pros practice for free before competing in the Legg Mason Tennis Classic
96. Become one with nature at the Audobon Nature Fair 
97. Ogle at sailboats at the United States Sailboat and Powerboat Shows in Annapolis
98. Walk in the Susan G. Komen National Race for the Cure 
99. Watch 4th of July fireworks on the National Mall
100. Spend a whole day doing what your child wants to do!

Tuesday List: 100 Things to Do Before Kindergarten

by Leticia

January 27, 2009

As a mom of a child who will be a kindergartner this fall, the thought of kindergarten readiness can be daunting. As a former first grade teacher, I often think of the skills that my students entered my classroom with having learned or not learned in kindergarten. It is true that kindergarten is becoming increasingly academic but the chances are if you read to your child, talk to them about the  Read more...

Meadowside Nature Center for Birthdays and Indoor Play

by Leticia

January 23, 2009

Sometimes planning a practical birthday party means having it outside your home. But where can you go that isn't booked almost a year in advance and won't cost the month's mortgage? I'm a huge fan of county facilities. Here in Montgomery County our swimming pools, ice rinks, parks, and recreation and nature centers are top notch and inexpensive compared to other party places because our tax  Read more...

Tuesday List: Best Bodies of Water to See Your Reflection

by Leticia

January 13, 2009

When you think of seeing your reflection, you generally think of a mirror. Water can have mirror-like properties too so this Tuesday Iâ??m thinking about warmer weather and the best bodies of water in the DC Metro Area where you can go to see your reflection or just walk along and reflect. The Reflecting Pool- The long stretch of water that is the Reflecting Pool is perfect for using as a  Read more...

Giant Food Launches Wellness Promotion: Free prescriptions for 36 antibiotics

by Leticia

January 05, 2009

I donâ??t know about your family but for ours, it seems like at least one person is sick in our house from now until about March. Despite constant handwashing, we still make lot of trips to the doctorâ??s office (aka The Germ Factory) and seem to be constantly filling prescriptions. Our next door neighbors with twin girls constantly lament the cost of copays and prescriptions during the winter  Read more...

Kicking off the New Year

by Beth Hoffman

December 31, 2008

So, schools have been closed for a long, long time now and I'm sure many of us are looking for ways to get the kids out the house for a day. The good news is that many things are open on New Year's Day. Here are my recommendations for getting the new year kicked off to an educational start. The Smithsonian - all Smithsonian museums are open tomorrow, and most open at 10  Read more...

Butterfly Pavilion at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History

by Beth Hoffman

December 28, 2008

If you are looking to add a touch of Spring to these cold Winter months, you need look no further than the Butterfly Pavilion at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History (10th and Constitution, NW, Smithsonian Station in the Blue and Orange Lines). Start with a stroll through the Partners in Evolution Exhibition which explored the connections between butterflies and  Read more...

Tuesday List: Best Decorated Neighborhoods

by Leticia

December 23, 2008

Tis the season for lightsâ?¦Lots and lots of lights, lit reindeer, and inflatable Santas, snowglobes, and supersized characters adorning lawns and neighborhoods everywhere. I love the charming tasteful displays in our neighborhood with their white icicle lights lining the rooftops throughout our fair city but sometimes you need over the top Christmas kitsch. Here are my top three suggestions  Read more...

New Year's Resolution: Learn New Parenting Techniques Free at the YMCA

by Leticia

December 22, 2008

If your New Year's resolution includes adding to your repertoire of parenting skills, check out the YMCA Youth & Family Services Parenting Programs being offered all over the DC Metro Area. All single session workshops are free and open to members and non-members of the YMCA. Many workshops offer translation in Spanish. Here is a list of the Winter 2009 offerings: What to Do When Kids  Read more...

Five for Tuesday - Local Holiday Traditions

by Leticia

December 02, 2008

One of the fun things about having kids is the chance to start new traditions for your family. So far, most of our have been home-based because the kids are little and it is just easier, so we make gingerbread men on Thanksgiving morning and Christmas-themed sugar cookies on Christmas Eve. But I expect to be hauling the kids all over town before much longer, the same way my parents hauled  Read more...

Tuesday List: Local Light Up Traditions

by Leticia

December 02, 2008

December has arrived and nothing says holidays like lights. Lots and lots of lights. If your neighbors are just starting to deck their halls, roofs, and yards with decorations and your family is in need of a light fix, here are some great places where you can go to see beautiful light displays beginning now. Festival of Lights at the Washington Temple of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter  Read more...

Smithsonian National Museum of American History

by Beth Hoffman

December 01, 2008

Remember last week when I suggested a post-Thanksgiving trip to the National Museum of American History ? I hope nobody took me up on that. We went the day after Thanksgiving and that place was insane. There were large sections of the museum where it was literally impossible to walk and make any forward progress, and you could just forget about getting anywhere with your stroller. A very  Read more...

Kids Hate Shopping - Better Ideas for Black Friday

by Beth Hoffman

November 27, 2008

Still in town? Need to get out of the house or burn off that dinner? Check out some local events (that don't involve hitting the malls with the rest of your neighbors) for the long weekend. Reston Town Center - Get started early tomorrow with a 8:30 AM race for kids. Registration starts at 7:30 and kids race free. The parade starts at 11:00 and Santa arrives at 12:30. If you really  Read more...

Free Montgomery County Open House Friday for Coach Doug- We Wanna Be Sports Class

by Leticia

November 18, 2008

If you live in Montgomery County and have perused the county recreation department offerings and have wondered about signing your child up for Coach Doug- We Wanna Be sports class , here is your chance to try it for free. Friday is an open house where anyone can come to check out the class for free. Coach Doug provides instruction in sports and agility training through supervised,  Read more...

Savvy Guest: National Children's Museum Offers Tips to Beat Winter Boredom

by Leticia

November 12, 2008

Today's Savvy guest post is by the National Children's Museum . When it opens in 2012, The National Children's Museum (NCM) will be a world-class cultural and educational center dedicated to engaging children and empowering them to make a difference. The mission of NCM is to inspire children to care about and improve the world. Today the National Children's Museum experts provide families with  Read more...

Guide to Storytimes

by Leticia

November 11, 2008

Who doesn't love a good story? Public libraries and bookstores host free story times for children that can breathe life into old favorites or make you discover a fabulous new book. Browse the list below and pencil the dates of local story times in your calendar so you are never without a great story. Public library systems: Alexandria Arlington County Fairfax County Falls Church  Read more...

Babygarten in Loudoun County

by Beth Hoffman

November 11, 2008

If you are in or near Loudoun County and have a child 18 months old or younger and you aren't going to Babygarten, you are missing out. The program is run by Loudoun County libraries, here's the description from their website : "Babygarten is a fun, exciting and informational program for infants and their parents or caregivers. Infants and their caregivers share nursery rhymes, songs and  Read more...

The Local Lingo: ABCs of the DC Metro Area

by Leticia

November 04, 2008

Learning to sing the ABCs is something that children learn at a young age. Being able to identify the letters in the alphabet, both uppercase and lowercase, comes a little later. Then along come the alphabet books, or in our case an ABC guide to the DC Metro Area: A - Adams Morgan for ethnic dinner table destinations B - Beltway's infamous traffic. Never be without a stack of CDs to sing your  Read more...

Kennedy Center's Multicultural Children's Book Festival

by Leticia

November 01, 2008

Since our November Being Savvy theme is all about books so it is fitting that the Kennedy Center's Thirteenth Annual Multicultural Children's Book Festival kicks off our month of literacy related posts. Children, parents, and educators are invited to the Kennedy Center today from Noon-6 pm to celebrate Family Literacy Day at the Multicultural Children's Book Festival. Books come to life in this  Read more...

Five for Tuesday - Places that Inspire the Imagination

by Beth Hoffman

October 14, 2008

Ok, I'm feeling a little bad for sending everybody to the mall yesterday, so here are some good choices if you want to help the kids stretch their brains a little more and give their imaginations a work out. Udvar-Hazy Center . From early planes to a space shuttle, plus a Concord, a Stealth Bomber, helicopters, gliders, ultra lights, rockets and satellites there's lots of material here  Read more...

Free books for Herndon kids

by Beth Hoffman

October 09, 2008

Do you live in Herndon? Do you have kids under five? Well then, Dolly Parton wants to send you free books! No, really. It's called Imagination Library , and if you live in Herndon or one of the 731 other participating communities in the U.S. and Canada they, in cooperation with a local sponsor, will send your child a new free book every month until they turn five. Their  Read more...

Tuesday List: 5 Favorite September Posts

by Leticia

September 30, 2008

Today it's goodbye September so in honor of the end of the month, I thought Id share my favorite posts of the month. A month of school has passed and are you already tired of packing lunch? If so, Andrea Astrachan from Giant Foods helps parents think outside the lunchbox with great new lunch ideas . If your kids have a favorite babysitter, enlist their help so you can resurrect dates for you  Read more...

Fire Prevention Week

by Beth Hoffman

September 30, 2008

When I hear Fire Prevention Week , I don't immediately start packing up the kids to join in the fun, but it seems that I should. To commemorate Fire Prevention Week (October 5 - October 11), all Fairfax County fire and rescue stations are holding open houses on Saturday, October 11 from 10-4. The press release promises displays and activities on fire safety, including preventing fires and fire  Read more...

Free museum admission from Bank of America Museums on Us

by Leticia

September 29, 2008

As a family of 4, admission to events and museums can add up quickly, especially since our youngest turned 2 this summer and requires paid admission. Luckily we live near DC where museums, with their amazing exhibits, area always free. But sometimes you want to venture beyond The Mall. The Bank of America Museums on Us allows for free museum admission the first weekend of each month throughout  Read more...

Don't Feed the Greedy Ducks

by Beth Hoffman

September 29, 2008

Hi, I'm Beth, the new girl, and I'm going to be joining Leticia here at Being Savvy DC starting, well, now. I'll be focusing on things to do with your kids in and around Northern Virginia, and will probably even venture into the city or roam a bit father afield from time to time. I'm a not quite native of Northern Virginia, but have spent nearly 30 years in Fairfax and  Read more...

Get your craft/rock/green on at Crafty Bastards

by Leticia

September 27, 2008

On Sunday, the 5th Annual Crafty Bastards Arts & Crafts Fair will be held in Adams Morgan. Hosted by The Marie Reed Learning Center, Crafty Bastards highlights up-and-coming artists and those newer to the indie craft scene. We stopped by the first Crafty Bastards in Silver Spring at the end of June and were treated to a host of fabulous unique goods. Hand sewn dim sum pieces like cha siu bow  Read more...

Foster a Love of Literacy at The National Book Festival

by Leticia

September 25, 2008

Deciding what to do this Saturday is going to be difficult. Besides Smithsonian Museum Day, another great event going on this Saturday is the National Book Festival . The festival will be held from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 27, rain or shine, on the National Mall in Washington, D.C., between 3rd and 7th streets. The National Book Festival is a wonderful way to cultivate a love of  Read more...

Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day

by Leticia

September 24, 2008

If you are a Friend of the National Zoo or a member of the Smithsonian Institution , you might have noticed a page in this month's magazine about Smithsonian Magazine Museum Day this Saturday, September 27. Museum Day is a way to enjoy free museum admission for you and a guest (or child!) to hundreds of museums and cultural venues all over the country. To enjoy free admission, tear out the page  Read more...

Where to go to meet friends

by Leticia

September 09, 2008

When my daughter was an infant many years ago, one of my favorite places to meet a friend was at the Nordstrom Caf. The tasty and reasonably priced food was a huge draw as was the fact that we could linger and talk with no one would batting an eye. Also the proximity to the Ladies' Lounge that had nice bathrooms for diaper changes and nursing was a nice benefit to meeting there. But as my  Read more...

Jim Henson's Fantastic World

by Leticia

August 28, 2008

Are you looking for a fun inexpensive kid-friendly museum outing in DC that will be as much fun for you as the kids? If so, pack a lunch and take a trip to the National Mall to see Jim Henson's Fantastic World . Last weekend we hopped aboard the Metro (which is an adventure of its own for my two children!) and disembarked at the Smithsonian stop to walk less than a block to the Smithsonian  Read more...

Room to Run: Brookside Gardens

by Leticia

August 25, 2008

We just went to Brookside Gardens and as much as I love going there, each time we go, I'm reminded how wonderful it is. Located in Wheaton, Maryland, Brookside Gardens is 50 acres of free tranquility and beauty that can wear your child out! One of my favorite features is the Japanese Tea House . Accessible by a stone path or a wooden footbridge, the Japanese Tea House is a place to enjoy some  Read more...

Tuesday List Day: Best Places to See the Fish

by Leticia

August 19, 2008

There is no shortage of places in the DC Metro Area to see fish. Especially live fish for free. If you aren't into traveling to see the fish, you don't need to look farA local pet store, a grocery store, and online are also great places to go. Check out my list of best places to see the fish: The United Stated National Arboretum is home to more than plants. Visit the ginormous brightly  Read more...

Washington DC Government Truck Touch

by Leticia

August 15, 2008

Does your child go mad for things that like diggers, fire trucks, bulldozers, helicopters, and boats? Do they run to the window at the first sound of a siren? Are they wowed by construction equipment If so, the first ever Washington DC Government Truck Touch is the place for you this Saturday! DC Mayor Adrian M. Fenty invites the public to come out and climb aboard the nearly 30 the  Read more...

Free Metro accessible summer concerts

by Leticia

July 25, 2008

Nothing says summer like enjoying music outside while you get your groove on with your kids with a cold drink in hand. Summer isn't quite over yet but it will be before you know it. With free Metro accessible concerts almost every day of the week, you can be sure to catch some live music before the summer ends. Enjoy free music on Wednesdays at Stathmore's Gudelsky Concert Pavilion Gazebo  Read more...

Getting Far Away with a Good Book

by Leticia

July 17, 2008

Having spent a couple years in Boston during graduate school, one of my favorite books that always brings me back to Beantown is Robert McCloskey's Make Way for Ducklings . My toddler and preschooler can never get enough of Mr. and Mrs. Mallard and I'm always willing to read it because there's something magical about the story, with its charcoal illustrations and the tale of the pair of ducks  Read more...

Jim Henson's Muppets on the Silver Screen & Smithsonian International Gallery

by Leticia

July 13, 2008

The very first movie Little Miss Techie ever saw in a theater wasn't a big name animated DreamWorks or Pixar blockbuster in a theater with digital surround sound and stadium seating. It was The Muppet Movie. Seeing such American cultural icons on the silver screen at the AFI Silver Theater and Cultural Center in Silver Spring two years ago was as much as a treat for her as it was for me and my  Read more...

Outdoor Movies

by Leticia

July 11, 2008

To me, summer is all about spending as much time as humanly possible outdoors. With it staying light outside longer, our children spend more time playing outside in the evenings and later bedtimes. Without the rigid routine of the school year, it is easier to stay up just a little later and catch a family movie outside at many of the great venues that offer free family flicks throughout the  Read more...

Meadowlark Botanical Gardens: Northern Virginia's Hidden Jewel

by Leticia

June 30, 2008

Guest writer Linda Kerr lives in Fairfax County with her two kids. She and her clan venture out to find fun and excitement close to home that doesn't break the bank. Linda is currently writing a book on having kids less than two years apart (aka Baby Bunching). She can also be found writing at Monkey Business and for DC Metro Moms . With school out for summer, it's tricky to find fun things  Read more...

Getting to Know My City: 5 Great Ways to Introduce your preschooler to local history

by Leticia

June 24, 2008

Living in our Nation's Capital, we are a stone's throw from as much history as we can choose to absorb and landmarks at every turn. But waiting in line exposed to the elements as you wait to get into the Washington Monument isn't exactly the most child-friendly thing to do. How can you expose your toddler or preschooler to local history in an age appropriate way? Here are some ideas: Step back  Read more...

Smithsonian Folklife Festival Children's Activities- Texas

by Leticia

June 23, 2008

Today is the third day in a row that I've devoted Being Savvy DC to the ways the Smithsonian Folklife Festiva l can be enjoyed by the whole family. I covered Bhutan , wrote about NASA, and am highlighting Texas today. My goal through this series is to provide you with a kid-friendly guide to enjoying each part of the Folklife Festival when it opens this Wednesday. After learning about space  Read more...

Smithsonian Folklife Festival Children's Activities- NASA

by Leticia

June 20, 2008

Today is the second of three days that I'm devoting Being Savvy DC to the ways the Smithsonian Folklife Festival can be enjoyed by the whole family. I covered Bhutan yesterday , am writing about NASA today, and will be highlighting Texas on Monday. My goal is to provide you with a kid-friendly guide to enjoying each part of the Folklife Festival when it opens this Wednesday. Little Miss  Read more...

Smithsonian Folklife Festival Children's Activities- The Kingdom of Bhutan

by Leticia

June 19, 2008

It's coming The 2008 Smithsonian Folklife Festival . Now don't let the inclusion of folklife in the title scare you away. There is nothing folksy about the festival in any way, shape, or form. At least not in the years I've attended. And the Folklife Festival serves as a wonderful way to teach your child about different cultures both in the United States and around the world. This year the 42  Read more...

Grandparent tradition- picnics and carousels

by Leticia

June 16, 2008

Whenever my parents come to visit from California, there are always three items on the agenda: milkshakes, the National Zoo, and taking a spin on a carousel before picnicking at our favorite parks. Over the years, Little Miss Techie and Captain Computer have taken many rides on the DC area carousels. The carousel at Glen Echo Park is probably my favorite in the DC Metro Area. Housed in a  Read more...

Examining Portraits at the National Portrait Gallery

by Leticia

June 12, 2008

Housed in the historic Patent Office Building, the Smithsonian's National Portrait Gallery is a wonderful place to take your child. The National Portrait Gallery contains 20,000 paintings, sculptures, prints, drawings and photographs, portrays men and women who have made significant contributions to the history, development and culture of the people of the United States. When you enter the  Read more...

The Budding Art Critic: How to Make the National Gallery a Place Your Child Loves

by Leticia

June 02, 2008

In college I was a psychology major who loved taking art history classes. I ended up taking so many art history classes that I had enough credits for a double major. For me, learning about artists and their paintings was just for fun. Every day when my children take out the art box, I watch them and am reminded about the masters I learned about and whose techniques are very similar to those my  Read more...

50 Things To Do in the DC Metro Area With a Child Before They Grow Up

by Leticia

May 29, 2008

In no particular order, here's a list of 50 things to do in the DC Metro Area with a child before they grow up: Head out the night before and brave the elements for your tickets to the White House Easter Egg Roll just to say you've done it Witness the beauty of the cherry blossoms at the Jefferson Memorial at their peak Go kayaking at Mason Neck State Park in Virginia since it is a great place  Read more...

Room to Run- Clemyjontri Park

by Leticia

May 28, 2008

Summer is here and with it is the general desire to be outside. But where do you go to run the wiggles out of your preschooler and toddler in the absence of recess? If you haven't been to Clemyjontri Park just off of the Old Georgetown Pike in McLean, this 2 acre park is sure to wear the most active child out. There's something for everyone at this incredible playground, especially since it was  Read more...

Top 5 Things to Do in the DC Area on a Rainy Day

by Leticia

May 27, 2008

Top 5 Things to Do in the DC Area on a Rainy Day Sometimes rainy days make me want to curl up on the couch underneath a blanket with my two children cuddled close with a stack of books for a reading marathon. Other times we feel like we've been stuck in the house for days and need to escape. National Building Museum's Building Zone - - My children love anything construction related so we hop  Read more...

Cultivating a Green Thumb

by Leticia

May 26, 2008

We're at the time in the year where the seasons are wavering between spring and summer. A series of rains have made the grass lush and green while the temperatures are warming and hinting that summer is on the way. I'm not a fan of the mosquitos and the Californian in me absolutely despises our humid summers so I'm trying to take advantage of being outside before summer truly arrives. We've been  Read more...

Trains and Other Modes of Transportation on Rails

by Leticia

May 22, 2008

My toddler is obsessed with trains. He knows the best places to spot trains and Metros while riding in the car and has a keen ear that always alerts him to approaching trains. For train lovers, there are many opportunities to get up close and personal with trains in the DC Metro Area and beyond. The B&O Railroad Museum in Baltimore is a train lover's paradise. Cases upon cases of model trains  Read more...

If I Had a Hammer...

by Leticia

May 20, 2008

Perhaps it is due to the fact that we recently completed a major addition on our home, but my children are construction obsessed. My son knows the name of every piece of construction equipment on a site and has an eagle eye for cranes. My daughter's vocabulary includes words like silt fence. Both love a good project, especially one that involves a hammer, dirt, some screws, and a trip to the  Read more...

History Lesson About Theodore Roosevelt with a Teddy Bear Picnic on Roosevelt Island

by Leticia

May 16, 2008

My two children have favorite stuffed bears that rarely leave their sides. But what do you know about Theodore Roosevelt and how our Nation's 26th President inspired the creation of the teddy bear According to T he Theodore Roosevelt Association , President Roosevelt loved nature and being out in the woods. He was on a bear hunt that had been organized just for him and was unable to find a  Read more...

Discovering the Joy of Birds at the National Zoo

by Leticia

May 15, 2008

We love the pandas as much as the next family and are always thrilled to see Tai Shan, Mei Xiang, and Tian Tian putting on a good show but there is so much more to the National Zoo than just the pandas. Believe it or not, my children love the Zoo's birds. Across from the bronze panda statue that your children always want to climb on and is in many of your family photos, is a bridge that leads  Read more...

Come Fly With Me and Learn About Airplanes!

by Leticia

May 13, 2008

What is it about airplanes that children find fascinating? Even before we had children, my husband and I loved to park ourselves at the end of the runway by National Airport and watch planes take off and land. Officially called Gravelly Point, this hot spot is easily accessible when driving to and from National Airport or from the Mount Vernon Trail path. It is a great place to stop as you  Read more...