Philadelphia

Fall Consignment Sales for Philly Families

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Fri, 08/17/2018 - 10:00am

Preparing a kid's closet for the cool breezes of autumn can hit a Philly family right in the wallet. But, it doesn't have to. Purchasing children's clothes by shopping local consignment sales is one way to save some cash. Throughout Philadelphia and the Delaware Valley, consignment sales offer families a place to buy gently used clothing, toys, baby items, and other childhood staples for a fraction of the retail price. Additionally, when your kids grow out of their clothes or toys, consignment sales provide an opportunity to sell these items for extra money.

Consignment sale organizers can submit their events to our calendar by clicking here. For a list of spring consignment sales, check here.

Music Classes for Philly Area Kids & Families

Submitted by Maureen Rayburn on Thu, 08/16/2018 - 10:00am

Kids march to the beat of their own drums, so why not help them keep their rhythm with some music classes? Some studies have shown that early music education helps children develop academic, physical, and social skills, and it also gives them an introduction to arts and culture. We have put together a list of music classes for kids in the Philadelphia area, but be sure to visit their websites for updated schedules. Visit our Classes Directory to keep up on the latest additions.

Weekend Fun for Philly Kids: Pirates, Aviation, Sports Day August 18-19

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Wed, 08/15/2018 - 10:17am

Despite the fact that back to school shopping and summer homework may loom over many families throughout the Delaware Valley, there are still a few weekends in August to enjoy. So, instead of preparing for the start of the school year, procrastinate a big longer with some exciting activities found in this weekend's event calendar.

Start off by learning about pirates at Fort Mifflin or 18th century living at Pottsgrove Manor. Those interested in aviation can watch a remote controlled airplane demo at Festival of Flight or discover the contributions that helicopters have made on society at the World Helicopter Day Celebration. Experience rich culture at, not one, but two festivals which are part of PECO Multicultural Series at Penn's Landing. On Saturday, guests can celebrate India's Independence Day while Sunday offers the chance to discover the food, music, and dance of the 14 islands that make up the Caribbean. Conclude the weekend with some friendly athletic competition at Franklin Square's Family Sports Day, just in time for the start of football season.

For now, don't worry about pencils, notebooks, book bags, and uniform pants. Message your friends and plan to hit some of the great events happening this weekend.

15 Studios Where Kids Can Take Dance Classes in the Philly Area

Submitted by Becki Melchione on Tue, 08/14/2018 - 12:00am

Dance studios and classes come in a variety of styles for all ages. Some focus on fun and fitness while others trend toward competition and professional training. Many offer classes starting with Mommy & Me for the youngest dancers, and expand their variety as children get older and more skilled. Whether the aspiring dancer is into ballet, jazz, tap, modern, or hip hop, this list has something for everyone from Center City to the 'burbs.

Get the Most Out of the Delaware River Waterfront Before Summer Ends

Submitted by Erin Ryan on Sun, 08/12/2018 - 9:51am

Soon enough summer will be in our rearview and fall will be upon us. So soak up all the warm weather while you can and enjoy the many family-friendly activities the Delaware Riverfront has to offer!

Vancouver With Kids: 30 Great Things To Do as a Family

Submitted by Thien August on Sat, 08/11/2018 - 1:20pm

One of Canada’s most ethnically diverse and densely populated cities, Vancouver, British Columbia is the crown jewel of the country's West Coast.

Less than an hour by car from the border with the United States, Vancouver is the gateway to the Pacific Rim and draws visitors from all over the world. It’s not just the city’s location that makes people flock there, but also the stunning backdrop of mountains, temperate weather, and world-class parks and amenities.

With the ocean and mountains within a short drive, Vancouver is a veritable outdoor playground. This cosmopolitan city is waiting for your next adventure. With a favorable exchange rate in Canadian dollars, free public parks, and an easy-to-navigate public transportation system, Vancouver offers great value and seemingly endless and unforgettable experiences.

Nature Preschools and Kindergartens in Philadelphia

Submitted by Cait Sumner on Fri, 08/10/2018 - 10:00am

Over the last few years, nature preschools and outdoor education have received some serious attention. The concept allows kids to learn all or most of their lessons in the great outdoors-- no matter the weather. Lessons often incorporate the outdoors and feature plenty of adventurous activities such as hiking, canoeing, climbing, and ropes courses. What's awesome about this trend is that kids get to spend tons of time outside instead of sitting in a classroom. In addition, it also teaches kids practical outdoor survival skills. Some of these forest schools even go all the way through 12th grade. While it's still a relatively new phenomenon (and maybe not for the faint of heart), the Philadelphia area has multiple options.

Weekend Fun for Philly Kids: Bug Fest, Block Parties, Trains August 11-12

Submitted by Kristen Sullivan on Wed, 08/08/2018 - 10:15am

There is plenty of summer fun on tap throughout the Delaware Valley during this August weekend. And, with only a few weeks until Philly kids hit the books for a new school year, Philly families should make the most of the extraordinary activities that can be found in our jam-packed events calendar.

Start off the weekend with a visit to the Academy of Natural Sciences' annual Bug Fest to learn fun facts about creepy crawlers. Be sure to explore the Museum's Xtreme Bugs exhibit while you are there. If you prefer to be outside with insects, grab your camera and head to Green Lane Park to snap pictures of both bugs and flowers.

On Saturday, families can enjoy West Chester's Market Street Block Party which features kids' activities as well as the Benchmark Twilight Cycling Classic. On Sunday, young and old can rock out to great bands along the Delaware River at Radio 104.5 Summer Block Party. Round out the weekend with some train fun. See Thomas the Tank Engine & Friends at Morris Arboretum or take a Summer Picnic Train Ride on the West Chester Railroad.

Keep reading for more ideas of ways to spend the weekend. Make it a great one!

How to Get the Most Out of a Caregiver Interview

Submitted by Sally Chaffin Brooks on Mon, 08/06/2018 - 4:02pm

Whether you’ve found them through personal recommendations, a nanny agency, a local parenting website, or even a chance encounter at the playground, you’ve narrowed your potential-Mary-Poppins list down to a few great choices. Now it’s time to conduct the in-person interviews. But can you really figure out, in one meeting, which caregiver will be the best fit for your kids—and for you? With preparation and some self-reflection, you can use a caregiver interview to help decide whether this is someone you feel not just comfortable with, but excited about. Read on for the top eight interview questions to ask in a caregiver interview.

For Kids with Autism, Here Are 10+ Philly Places to Explore and Enjoy

Submitted by Erin Ryan on Sun, 08/05/2018 - 10:15am

Finding new and unique ways to engage your autistic child can be a challenge, but several venues throughout Greater Philly promote activities specially designed for children on the spectrum. We've combed the area and found ten locations and upcoming events that offer enriching programs to support the special needs of autistic children, from toddlers to teenagers.