Charlestown

10 Places to Take Kids Ice Skating for Free in Boston

Submitted by Elyse Andrews on Sun, 01/20/2019 - 8:00pm

We're huge fans of the many outdoor ice rinks that open every winter around Boston, but these popular (and touristy) spots can get pretty crowded and just a bit pricey. What’s a Boston mom or dad to do? Don't worry: Boston happens to have lots of public skating options that are totally free! Here’s what you need to know to have a fun, no-cost time as a family at these 10 free skating rinks around town.

10 Enrichment Classes for Boston Babies

Submitted by Elyse Andrews on Mon, 03/26/2018 - 8:02pm

As a new mom, I really looked forward to doing classes in subjects like music and art with my son. At first I thought we’d have to wait until he was older to do any sort of formal enrichment activity, but I soon learned that there are a ton of options available for even the littlest babies. These classes are a great way to bond and are perfect for providing much-needed stimulation for babies that are past the newborn stage. So here’s a roundup of 10 classes that are designed especially for Boston babies.

Six Boston-Area Playgrounds with Shade

Submitted by Lucie T on Fri, 08/18/2017 - 12:49pm

Recently, we went on a hunt for special playgrounds that have unique elements that make them worthy of getting in the car and driving to. But in the dog days of summer, we have one more criteria that's essential for a perfect day at the park: shade. Here are six tree-lined parks and playgrounds with an hour of Boston that have natural elements to keep you cool while you're having fun.

20 Ways to Spend a Morning with Your Toddler in Boston

Submitted by Elizabeth Fisher on Mon, 07/24/2017 - 3:00pm

Once you've gotten through breakfast and downed your second (or third) cup of coffee, have you ever looked at your toddler and thought, "what the heck am I going to do with you today?" Too young for many full-time schools or camps, too old to just tag along on errands all day, toddlers are suited for fun, interactive activities that don't require a long attention span and will tucker them out for their afternoon nap. Fortunately for parents and caregivers, there are a plenty of great local activities that will entertain your tot and get you both out of the house.

8 Pools Where Kids Swim Free (or Nearly Free) in Boston

Submitted by Elyse Andrews on Mon, 06/19/2017 - 10:00am

When the temperatures soar in Boston, you can always stop by a sprinkler park or wading pool to cool off a little; but sometimes, a refreshing swim in a bonafide pool is in order. Sure, there are some swanky hotel or membership pools inside city limits where you can pay a pretty penny to swim, but when kids and diaper bags are in tow, you don't need much more than a safe stretch of cool water to feel happy. Here, we’ve rounded up eight great swimming pools in Boston where kids and parents can splash, float, or practice strokes all summ

Seeing the Tall Ships at Sail Boston with Kids

Submitted by Elizabeth Fisher on Mon, 06/12/2017 - 11:30am

The tall ships are coming! From June 17 to 22, the city's inner harbor will be filled with more than 50 historic vessels from around the world for the first time since 2000. Sail Boston will be an impressive sight that will wow kids (and teach them a thing or two about our city's rich maritime history), but you'll want to do some planning before setting a course for the waterfront next week. Here's the scoop on how to enjoy the show with little landlubbers in tow.

Weekday Picks for Boston Kids: Sculpture, Farming, and Music Exploration; May 15-19

Submitted by Kelley Heyworth on Sun, 05/14/2017 - 6:51pm

Monday, 5/15—Newton

Seven Running Clubs for Kids in Boston

Submitted by Fiona Haley on Mon, 04/17/2017 - 9:07am

On your mark, get set, GO! It’s marathon time, which means Bostonians have running on the brain. Aspiring runners don’t need to be adults to learn to run like Desi Linden or Meb Keflezighi. Seven local running clubs for children will help kids learn to run or train to be the track stars of the future. Whether or not your kid is Olympics-bound, these clubs also promote sportsmanship, friendship, fitness, and self-confidence—which are worth just as much as a medal.

Weekday Picks for Boston Kids: A New Museum, Lego Superheroes, and a Farm Fair; March 27-31

Submitted by Kelley Heyworth on Sun, 03/26/2017 - 6:00pm

New is the theme as Boston families enter the month of April: We're celebrating a museum opening, the arrival (albeit a bit sluggish) of spring, and budding musicians, among other exciting events. Somerville is in the spotlight this week, with a special visit by a superhero to Legoland's weekly Toddler Tuesday and a fair featuring super-healthy, hyperlocal food. For more reasons to get out of the house with the kids, check out our Event Calendar.

Boston Kids' Activities That Fit Working Parents' Schedules

Submitted by Therese Sison on Sat, 01/28/2017 - 9:00am

Music, art, swimming, dance, playgroups: When you're the parent of a young child, the opportunities to introduce your son or daughter to new experiences and friends can seem limitless. But if you're a working parent, the last thing you want to do is cram your already packed calendar with classes that happen at inconvenient times. Luckily, Boston is home to many stellar programs that are particularly accommodating to working parents' schedules. Here are some of our favorites.