Meghan Rose
Before becoming a parent, Meghan Rose worked at pioneering internet companies like AOL, eToys.com, and eBay. After having twins, she shifted her focus to literacy, co-authoring Home is Where the Books Are (Choice Literacy, 2013) and launching LitforKids.com. Now based in Los Angeles, Meghan is all about finding fun things to do with kids. Please send her ALL your ideas and suggestions for national parenting and travel articles, or drop a note just say hi: meghan@mommypoppins.com
Latest posts by Meghan
Remember the days of busted swings and boring slides? Well, kids growing up in LA will never have those memories; the best playgrounds in Los Angeles (which are open again, hallelujah) are bastions of play and creativity for kids of all ages and abilities. These LA playgrounds feature rocket ships and pirate ships, fire trucks and trains, sea creatures and more. There are climbing structures, sand pits, thrilling ziplines, and playgrounds that honor the original inhabitants of the land. While the neighborhood playground is great for every day, sometimes cooped up kids need something new. And these playgrounds have the ultimate accolade: they're worth crossing the 405!
For more playground inspiration, check our guide to LA's top parks and playgrounds, or our list of the best beach playgrounds in Los Angeles and OC.
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.
To say 2020 was a tough year for parents is an understatement. Now that it’s (thankfully!) nearing a close, we wanted to look back at some of the people, places, and things that helped make it possible to keep some semblance of sanity. Parents suddenly became teachers, chief playmates, and head chefs, and it was not easy. But happily, events got creative, parents got plucky, and kids mastered ways to play and socialize online. So, as we ring in 2021, we just wanted to say a huge THANK YOU to everything that helped us survive a year like no other.
In the United States, New Year’s Eve means ball drops, fireworks, and champagne (or sparkling Martinelli’s) toasts. But in different parts of the world, New Year’s celebrations look a little different and might include eating grapes, smashing plates, or even getting tapped with an onion. All fun and easy celebrations you can do with your kids!
Welcome the New Year with these unique, family-friendly traditions from across the globe. And if you’re looking for more fun ways to celebrate New Year’s Eve at home with kids we’ve got you covered!
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