Danielle Smith

Latest posts by Danielle

Harry Potter Casts Spell on Philly: New Exhibition Premieres at the Franklin Institute

Submitted by Danielle Smith on Mon, 02/21/2022 - 10:33am

The Hogwart's Houses gallery sets the foundation for the exhibition experience. Photo courtesy of Harry Potter: The Exhibition

Prepare to be spellbound…Harry Potter: The Exhibition is finally open at the Franklin Institute, and it’s every bit as magical as fans of the franchise would expect. A collection of immersive experiences capture the Wizarding World kids have come to love from the stories and blockbuster films. Original props and costumes are displayed alongside themed interactive installations, giving Potterheads a behind-the-scenes look at their favorite characters, scenes, and settings.

Team Gryffindor, Slytherin, Hufflepuff, and Ravenclaw can all personalize their journey at registration kiosks before entering the exhibit. From there, some 18,000 square feet of Potter-themed galleries wow guests, including simulated wand duels, potion mixing, and of course, a game of Quidditch. The exhibition hops a broomstick and flies out of town in September, and we recommend booking tickets immediately as weekends are selling out fast.

11 Kid-Friendly Philly Cheesesteak Spots

Submitted by Danielle Smith on Sun, 02/20/2022 - 9:47am

Try a whiz-wit at Tony Luke's, a reliable Philly cheesesteak spot with multiple locations. Photo courtesy of J. Varney for GPTMC

Philadelphia has cemented its status as a world-class foodie destination, but we’ll always be known for the Philly cheesesteak, and that’s just fine by us. It’s impossible to raise kids here without introducing them to the iconic sandwich at some point, and for visitors to the city, a cheesesteak run is usually at the top of the bucket list. So we’ve made our own list—of the best places to get a Philly cheesesteak with kids.

If there’s one thing you don’t want to get Philadelphians started on (besides the Eagles), it’s where to get the best cheesesteak in Philly, and how to order when it’s time to chow down. There’s the Cheez Whiz crowd, the chicken cheesesteak crowd, and myriad debates over the importance of fried onions and various condiments. However you choose to order (Whiz wit? witout?), here’s a rundown of cheesesteak places in Philly where families can enjoy the City of Brotherly Love’s quintessential meal.

Black-Owned Restaurants, Shops, and Landmarks to Discover in Philly

Submitted by Danielle Smith on Fri, 02/04/2022 - 10:18am

Harriet's Bookshop is full of titles that represent Black kids and kids of color. Photo courtesy of the shop

Black-owned businesses in Philadelphia are thriving, and we’re highlighting some of the kid-friendly places where families can show support during Black History Month, or any month. These Black-owned shops and landmarks reflect the diversity of Philly’s Black community, teach our shared history, and enhance the culture of a city to which African Americans have made immense contributions.

Our list includes museums and historical sites that offer opportunities for important discussions around civil rights, alongside Black-owned restaurants and businesses where families will find some of the best eats, treats, and shopping in the city. For more family-friendly activities and events to celebrate Black History Month, browse our event calendar and the Best Things To Do in Philly in February with Kids. Check out 30+ Children's Books to Celebrate Black History Month for great reads that represent and affirm kids of color. If you'd like more stories like this sent straight to your inbox, sign up for our newsletters.

Big Fun, Little Party: 25 Kids' Birthday Party Ideas for Small Groups

Submitted by Danielle Smith on Thu, 01/27/2022 - 6:24am

Your kiddo only needs a few close friends to have an epic birthday celebration. Photo by Vlada Karpovich, Pexels

For parents in search of kids’ birthday party ideas, the thought of a room packed to the brim with children laughing, screaming, and playing can feel overwhelming. Adding to those general anxieties is the stress of trying to minimize germ exposure right now. With all of that in mind, when it comes to the guest list for kids’ birthdays, sometimes less is more.

Fewer kids can allow for more room in the budget to splurge, more freedom to travel further distances, and more supervision over rowdy revelers. We’ve got inspiration for toddler birthday party ideas through teen birthday party ideas that are perfect for just a couple of friends or one bestie.

Now all you need is one of these 10 great birthday cake ideas for a kids' birthday party and a few of these birthday freebies for kids, and you've got birthday fun covered this year!

100 Best Kids' TV Shows of All Time

Submitted by Danielle Smith on Tue, 01/25/2022 - 12:15pm

The Muppet Show never goes out of style. Photo courtesy of Disney Enterprise, Inc.

Sometimes it’s nice to just settle in for a good binge, but it can be hard to find a show the whole family can agree on! We’ve got you covered with a list of the 100 best kids' TV shows ever, from old kids' TV shows in black and white, to our all-time favorite PBS Kids TV shows, right up through the best kids' TV shows you can stream today.

These programs are funny, heartwarming, and wholesome, with educational and life lessons that entertain and help children make sense of the world. Okay, maybe there aren’t a ton of lessons to take from Mr. Bean, but that’s what the other 99 are for. So gather the fam, grab some snacks, and get comfy on the couch, bed, or floor … you’ll be there a while.

Need even more recs for family entertainment? Check out our list of the Best Kids' Movies for Family Movie Night. And whether tonight is a TV night or movie night, these Irresistible Dessert Board Recipes make for super snacks for everyone.

22 Free Kids' Music Playlists for Breakfast through Bedtime

Submitted by Danielle Smith on Thu, 01/20/2022 - 10:28am

Need a kids' music playlist that will get you dancing, eating, and even learning state capitals? We found a playlist for every occasion.

If you’ve played every Kidz Bop album under the sun, or sometimes find yourself singing Baby Shark alone in the shower, it’s time for some new kids' music. Here's a list of the best playlists of kids' music, with hits from every genre to fit every activity and mood—whether you’re looking for relaxing music for kids that leads to sleep music for kids or fun music for kids that will get a family dance party started. Read on to discover kids' music that will encourage children to be themselves, calm themselves, even learn the state capitals.

For more family-friendly audio entertainment, check out our list of the best kid-friendly podcasts; for more ways to get a family dance party started, don't miss our picks of the best easy TikTok dances for kids.

Adaptive Sports for Kids in Philly with Special Needs

Submitted by Danielle Smith on Mon, 01/03/2022 - 12:56pm

Hammerheads sled hockey players in action. Photo courtesy of Hammerheads Sled Hockey

Youth sports are a fun and formative part of countless kids’ lives, and that should be true for children at every ability level. Several adaptive sports programs for kids near Philadelphia provide opportunities for young people with disabilities, making sure that those with special needs have the same access as everyone else.

The benefits of adaptive sports programs can be especially empowering, offering a community of other children with similar interests, and facing similar challenges. Many programs meet year-round, admitting athletes regardless of the season. Read on for a list of area programs that eliminate limitations, and truly level the playing field.

Smith Playhouse Makeover Brings Fun New Additions for Kids

Submitted by Danielle Smith on Tue, 12/28/2021 - 11:59am

Following a two-year closure, the doors to Smith Playhouse are finally open and welcoming kids back for three floors of never-ending fun. The century-old iconic play destination has received extensive upgrades thanks to a multimillion-dollar investment, and Mommy Poppins recently had the chance to preview all of the cool new features, along with improvements to existing favorites that Philly families have come to know and love.