How to Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2021 With NJ Kids

Submitted by Laurie Rein on

The Arts Council of Princeton is giving away a limited-edition coloring book to celebrate the history of notable Black Princetonians to commemorate MLK Day. Photo courtesy of the Arts Council

Martin Luther King Jr., the chief spokesperson for the civil rights movement, is memorialized annually on the third Monday in January. This floating holiday has evolved into more than just a day off from school; it's now deemed a National Day of Service. MLK Day encourages volunteers across the country to donate their time to make a difference in their communities while honoring the civil rights icon. This day reminds us of hope, compassion, and the ongoing potential for social change.

While most volunteer opportunities are virtual or drop-off this year, there are still plenty of ways to support Martin Luther King Jr.'s mission throughout New Jersey. Unless otherwise noted, all events take place on Monday, January 18, 2021. 

Celebrate Martin Luther King Jr. Day With Kids at These NYC Events

Submitted by Andy Fenwick on

BAM hosts a free virtual tribute to Martin Luther King Jr. Photo courtesy of BAM

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is peaceful for New York City kids, but it sure isn't boring, with music, storytelling, and volunteer activities all focused on sharing Dr. King's life and legacy with kids. Enjoy a Community Day event in Brooklyn, a family poetry workshop, BAM's FREE online Martin Luther King Jr. Day celebration, and more.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which falls on Monday, January 18, 2021, is also a National Day of Service, and citizens are encouraged to help out in their communities. To that end, we've included a list of family-friendly volunteering opportunities that provide wonderful ways to honor Dr. King's work. You can find even more things to do on Martin Luther King Jr. Day in our Event Calendar.

Descanso Gardens: An Insider’s Guide to LA’s Best Garden for Kids

Submitted by Matt Matasci on

Photo courtesy of Descanso Gardens

La Cañada Flintridge​'s Descanso Gardens stands out as one of the best botanical gardens in LA, and in a city renowned for natural beauty, that's really saying something. Sure the paved and unpaved trails for little wanderers to explore and 150 acres that bloom continuously in winter, spring, summer, and fall contribute to making it great. But what makes it extra magical are the millions of hidden treasures for kids of all ages to discover, as well as the seasonal events and unique programming throughout the year.

Discover what makes Descanso Gardens such a special place for kids—and get some insider tips to making the most of every visit.

Indoor Activity: Recycle Cards Into Bookmarks

Submitted by Ally Noel on

Receiving those annual holiday cards from friends and family is so much fun, but at the end of the season, many of us are at a loss with what to do with this year's collection. If you don't want to toss 'em, try this easy craft with kids: upcycle old holiday cards into bookmarks.

This post-holiday craft is a great way to kick off the new year with no-cost indoor fun with the kids. It's also one of our 30 top indoor boredom busters for this month.

The Santa Barbara Zoo Is Bringing the Outback to SoCal with Emus and Kangaroos and Kookaburras, Oh My!

Submitted by Meghan Rose on

Whooooooo you looking at? Yes, you, tawny frogmouth. Photo by PsJeremy/CC BY 2.0

What's new at the Santa Barbara Zoo? Families across the city have missed everything about our local zoos with closures this winter (especially Zoo Lights at the LA Zoo). That’s why the news that in the summer of 2021 something new and special is coming to the Santa Barbara Zoo is so very welcome. They’re roaring back, bigger and better than ever before, giving LA kids and families yet another reason to visit the zoo … a trip to the Outback of Australia, with no passport required, just a simple zip up the 101.

Indoor Play Spaces in Connecticut Open Now

Submitted by Clementina Verge on

Mask up and jump in! Photo courtesy of Chelsea Piers CT

When chilly weather keeps kids inside in Connecticut, they don't necessarily need to stay home. Many indoor play spaces have reopened under state guidelines and will keep little ones climbing, bouncing, jumping, and giggling on cold or wet days. For 2021, facilities have implemented enhanced cleaning procedures, social distancing protocols, and advance registration requirements, ensuring not only a fun day trip but increased safety. 

Look to our Connecticut Winter Fun Guide for more cabin fever cures, from snow tubing outings to dozens of outdoor winter activities to keep kids busy at home.

Virus Restrictions Eased: Here's What You Can Do in Philly Indoors Right Now

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on

The nation's founding comes alive at the Museum of The American Revolution. Photo courtesy of the museum

Mitigation efforts to fight COVID-19 were put into place throughout Pennsylvania in mid-December, closing indoor locations including museums. Most of those restrictions now have been lifted and our favorite spots are beginning to reopen.

Mommy Poppins Philadelphia has rounded up some locations that are open or plan to open soon. Because restrictions and policies change quickly, be sure to check directly with each venue before visiting. Guests still must wear masks and maintain social distancing at all locations. Many offer timed tickets that must be purchased in advance. So find your masks, grab some hand sanitizer, and explore our list.

10 Toddler-Friendly Hikes and Nature Walks in and around Los Angeles

Submitted by Jennifer Cook Nice on

Wide trails and gentle grades are perfect for kids at Kenneth Hahn Park. Photo by Jeremy Miles/Flickr

Is there any other city in the world where you can hike in nature and visit world class museums (not to mention the beach) all on the same day? This is why the premium paid for living in LA is steeper than these hikes! Los Angeles has some majestic mountains, but not all our trails are exhausting treks—there are loads of hikes in every nook and cranny of the city that are perfect for little legs (or beginner hikers of any age).

Get ready to discover your favorite new place to take even the smallest hiker in the family. If you’ve also got older kids or babies in strollers, we’ve outlined which hikes are just as fun for big kids and which are stroller (and dog) friendly. These LA hiking spots are kid-tested and whole family-approved, and are the ones that everyone will want to visit again and again.

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