Boston

15 Super Easy April Fools' Day Pranks to Play on Your Kids

Submitted by Kelley Heyworth on Mon, 03/25/2019 - 10:09am

There are few things more satisfying than pulling a fast one on your own kid, but elaborate prep work is sure to sap the fun out of any good April Fools' Day joke. In the past, we've shared ideas for old-school gags and fun tricks to play on children, but more recently, we've found that the very best pranks are also the simplest.

Here, we run down 15 easy ways to show kids that we still have the upper hand—at least when it comes to April Fools' Day!

35 Things to Do with Kids During April Vacation Week in Boston

Submitted by Kip Wilson Rechea on Sun, 03/24/2019 - 10:00am

April vacation is full of exciting possibilities for kids in Boston—no plane tickets required. Not only do you get to go outside to enjoy the start of spring weather and celebrate Patriots Day, Earth Day, and Easter, but there are also tons of fun activities planned between April 13th and 23rd just for kids. From cool science fairs to animal encounters to princess parties, there's something to keep every kiddo happy. Check out our full list of vacation fun below and have a fantastic week!

Easter Egg Hunts for Kids in and Around Boston

Submitted by Kelley Heyworth on Fri, 03/22/2019 - 10:00am

It’s time for kids in Boston to break out the baskets, because it's egg hunting season! We’ve rounded up some options for Easter egg hunts that take place in diverse locations, including parks, farms, local businesses, and even a carousel. Many of the egg hunts are for little ones only, but there are plenty of other festive activities like games, crafts, and refreshments. For more Easter fun, plan a special bunny brunch.

Weekend Fun: Maple Fest, Crafts, and Comics; March 23-24

Submitted by Clementina Verge on Wed, 03/20/2019 - 6:00pm

It's officially spring! The temperatures are warming up, and the waterfront, gardens, and hiking trails are starting to call our name. If you're excited to embrace the milder weather, check out a beloved maple festival in Blue Hills. Keep hands busy with a seasonal mushroom or birdhouse craft, or set imaginations soaring at this comic book heroes exhibit. Celebrate with some of our favorite spring activities around Boston, start mapping out family-friendly bike trails in the neighborhood, or make plans for the family's first outdoor dining splurge of the season.

7 Single Parent Hacks for Entertaining Kids (and Staying Sane) Every Day of the Week

Submitted by Susan Leslie on Mon, 03/18/2019 - 1:00pm

March 21st is National Single Parent Day. Yes, that's a thing. It even has a hashtag #NationalSingleParentDay. Yipeee, let's celebrate you! The holiday was created in 1984 to "honor the sacrifices and diligent work of single parents across our country" with the hopes that it would become just as popular as Mother's Day or Father's Day. Okay, that's pretty cool. Except, you know, when you're single... there's no one to actually go out and get you roses or candy or take you to dinner or even draw you a bath...on National Single Parent Day, on Mother's Day, on Father's Day, or any other day... because, you're SINGLE. But you deserve to be celebrated—if not with roses then at least with a few helpful hacks to get through the week.

Boston-Area Spring Festivals and Fairs for Kids and Families

Submitted by Kelley Heyworth on Sun, 03/17/2019 - 10:09am

As March winds down and the city blossoms into springtime, there are few better ways to celebrate than by getting outside at one of Boston’s fun, family-friendly festivals. With so many to choose from, it seems like the whole city is cheering the warmer, sunnier days with music, art, flowers, and food. And the best part? Many of these special events are free. Mark your calendars now and enjoy the anticipation of balmier, more festive days ahead!

Insider’s Guide to Haines, Alaska: 21 Top Things to Do with Kids

Submitted by Anna Fader on Sat, 03/16/2019 - 2:09pm

Alaska is a dream destination on many family travel bucket lists. The way most people experience the state is to hop on one of the many cruises that travel up the Inside Passage. Cruising is particularly suited for Alaska travel because the scenery from the ship is beautiful and the destinations are hard to reach otherwise. But, as with many things in travel, the easiest road often passes by the best destinations.

Haines, Alaska, is one of those gems that is often missed by family cruisers. If you have the option to take a cruise that stops in Haines, or can take an excursion to Haines (an option from Skagway), I highly recommend it. Or, if you want to plan your own Alaska trip, you could easily spend a week in Haines without running out of amazing things to do with the kids, from bear watching and fishing to exploring some really unique museums.

Easter Bunny Breakfasts and Brunches for Kids and Families in Boston

Submitted by Kelley Heyworth on Fri, 03/15/2019 - 6:00pm

Getting a picture taken with the Easter Bunny is a major rite of passage for many kids. Make the tradition even more special this year when you take your child to a breakfast or brunch where the famous rabbit will be milling about—for photo ops or just some shy gawking. Whether you’re looking for a fun activity to celebrate Easter or just want to find a kid-friendly spot to eat a spring-themed breakfast or brunch, we’ve got you covered. Be sure to make reservations (many of these events fill up quickly); and take lots of pictures.

St. Patrick's Day Weekend Fun for Boston Kids: Parades, Rainbow Crafts, and Flowers

Submitted by Lucie T on Wed, 03/13/2019 - 7:43pm

Who's feeling lucky this weekend? The always-spirited St. Patrick's Day parade is winding its way through Southie this Sunday, Artbeat is crafting lucky rainbows, and even the zoo is celebrating all things green. Families can go on a Celtic sojourn, enjoy Irish entertainment, and even try some Irish dancing themselves (for free!)

Need some Spring in your step? The gorgeous blooms on display at the Boston Flower and Garden Show will get everyone looking forward to warmer days. Another holiday event worth noting is this Purim community event with a play, magician, aerialist, pizza, and more (also for free!).

30 Spring Things We Can't Wait to Do With Boston Kids

Submitted by Tara D on Sun, 03/10/2019 - 8:00pm

We're always delighted to welcome spring to Boston. It's the season when everything comes alive and each day brings a small and wonderful surprise. The city's green spaces are vibrant centers of color and activity, and it's the perfect time to get outdoors with the kids to reconnect with nature or celebrate at a fair or festival. Here are our picks for Boston's best activities for families in springtime. And for even more ideas for making the most of the season, check out our Boston spring fun guide.