Your guide to activities and fun things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in seattle, WA

Spend an afternoon in Fremont

by Angie McDonald

August 11, 2009

Weekend Plans for When You're Not in Water or Melting.

by Bethany Dunn

July 30, 2009

All I have to say about this week is:

AGH.

MEH.

GRR.

It is just TOO hot. So hot, in fact, that my preschooler suffered from heat exhaustion this past Monday. It was pretty scary for a few moments, but now we know more about how to keep us all cool. Which basically revolves around drinking LOTS of water and limiting sun exposure.

While the weekend should bring us slightly lower temps - but still in the high 80s and low 90s - you'll still need something to do to fill in the times between dips in your kiddie pool. So pack plenty water and have fun!

What's summer without fresh blueberries? Come celebrate the local harvest as Bryant Blueberry Farm and Nursery hosts their Blueberry Festival on Saturday. They'll have pony rides, BBQ goodies, and, of course, plenty of blueberries to pick and enjoy.

It's Pioneer Days in Lake City! The fun will include a street fair, family activities and a parade! Rumor has it - there may also be a visit from the Seafair Pirates. Start August off right with a visit to this festival on Saturday.

You have a couple of opportunities to see Recess Monkey this weekend as they play two show around town. They'll be at Alphabet Soup Books in Wallingford on at 11am and at 3rd Place Books at 3pm on Saturday. The three members of the band used to be classroom teachers - so they know how to handle a crowd of kids with music and fun.

And remember, whatever you do, HYDRATE.  Read more...

It's Going to be Hot, Hot, HOT.

by Bethany Dunn

July 23, 2009

With weekend temperatures heading towards the mid-90s, you may want to do nothing more than lounging in your backyard in the kiddie pool.

Resist that urge! Here's some fun ideas to enjoy the weekend ahead.

Those in the south end may enjoy Renton River Days. Sponsored by Ikea, this festival has plenty of activities just for kids - from a Lego Playzone to face painting. And, of course there will be inflatables! 

The Tour de Terrace in Mountlake Terrace takes place Friday, Saturday and Sunday. There is a parade, musical entertainment and plenty to entertain the kids - big and small.

Got an artist in the house? Then ArtRageous in Auburn is your place to be this Saturday. This event boasts over 30 hands-on art activities, plus musical performances and artists in action.

Food more your thing? Enjoy seafood? Then your family will be in HEAVEN at the 35th Annual Ballard SeafoodFest this Saturday and Sunday. And it's not just about the food, kids have their own set of activities to enjoy as well!  Read more...

How to Stay Cool When Seattle Warms Up.

by Bethany Dunn

June 05, 2009

The 90 degree weather earlier this week may have been good, IN THEORY, in practice it gave me hot and sweaty and occasionally crabby kids. The National Weather Service is warning us that the seasonal outlook for our region will likely bring us less than normal precipitation and higher than normal temperatures.

Not many of us have air conditioning in the Seattle area (if you are one of them, HELLO! May I bring my two kids over to play? I make delicious cookies!), so when the weather heats up for days on end, we need to get creative to stay cool.

So, what to do when things heat up?

Play find the AC. Our area's local children's museums are all great places to stay cool. It might also be a great time to go to your local theater to see the movie the kids have been begging to see (I think my family is the last in the world to see Up!), hit up the mall and it's play area or enjoy a meal out.  Or go to the library and instead of just checking out books; stay awhile and read through a stack together. Just a few hours of cooling down may make all the difference.

Stay home, but play it cool. Work together to make homemade popsicles or fudgesicles. Fill a store-bought spray bottles with water and ice and spritz each other on your deck. Make your own ice cream.

Head out to the spray parks. A ton of our local parks have spray pads and wading pools, where your preschooler can enjoy cooling themselves down (and tiring themselves out), while you sit in the shade, sipping an iced tea. In Seattle, just search here by park feature (be aware, several of Seattle's wading pools are closed this summer, until they can be retrofitted with a federally mandated draining system). On theeastside, Bellevue just opened their new spray pad at Crossroads Park. Metro Parks Tacoma has five sites ready to cool you down. And in Snohomish County, you may run into me and my family at the Willis Tucker spray pad. FUN.

But most of all, know that the heat wave will soon be over - as we never get many days of heat in a row in Seattle! And if you are outside playing (in the sun or shade) for any period of time, keep your kids slathered in sunscreen and keep them well hydrated.  Read more...

Spring Break!

by Bethany Dunn

March 26, 2009

Next week is Spring Break for the Seattle School District and many of the other local school districts (including the one my kindergartner attends). My son and I will be hitting the road to visit family in Idaho (and, yes, I have Angie's recent post on traveling with kids bookmarked so I can use all her tips!).

Since this is our family's first experience of Spring Break as parents of school-aged children combined with the fact that my daughter's preschool doesn't take a week off, our expectations (especially for the kids) are especially low. But yours don't have to be! If you are not headed out of town to warmer weather (I'm jealous), there are still plenty of activities around town to keep your crew entertained.

Visit the Pacific Science Center to enjoy their annual Spring Fling from April 1-5. Included in the price of admission are visits from special animal guests, nature activities and even pony rides!

Want to keep learning? Then head to the Bellevue Arts Museum for FREE on Friday as part of their First Free Friday promotion.

Spring Break in Seattle means its Whirligig time! Just what is Whirligig? Well, it's a "wacky world of child size action"! The Center House is transformed with bouncy houses, slides and much more. There are also roaming clowns, face painting, and free entertainment. It runs for two weeks from March 27 through April 12. Want to miss the crowds? Plan on attending on a Monday, Tuesday or Wednesday.

Have a great Spring Break and stay safe!  Read more...

Experiencing Spring in Seattle.

by Bethany Dunn

March 17, 2009

The snow this weekend was pretty darn incredible. My family and I live in the "Puget Sound convergence zone" so our weather is sort of its own micro-climate - often experiencing what I consider strange weather events. And this Sunday was no different - somehow, snowflakes combined as they were falling from the sky to create these sort of massive "super" snowflakes. There were some snowflakes that were - NO JOKE - the size of small salad plates.

But we soldier on into spring. By my calender, the first day of spring is only 4 days away (March 21). Here's some great ways to enjoy spring in Seattle! (But don't forget your umbrella!)

Spring in Seattle is a great time to get geared up for summer by learning to swim - our very own Angie helps us decide if our preschooler would benefit from private swim lessons.

While Washington, DC has their famous Cherry Blossom Festival, we have our own for you to enjoy: the Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival which is held in April. Other than the festival, great spots to enjoy the cherry blossoms include in the Quad on the University of Washington Campus or along the walkway on Lake Washington Boulevard. Breathtaking.

Get ready for baseball reason (and the return of Junior!!) by scheduling a Safeco Field Tour.

Plan a trip up to Skagit Valley to the annual Tulip Festival. The acres and acres AND ACRES of the tulips are a sight to see; but there are lots of family activities to enjoy, too.

Pack a picnic and enjoy your local park. It may have been MONTHS since you've made this trip - but the days should dry out soon, so make your first trip back special by packing your lunch and inviting some friends to join you.  Read more...

Top Five Seattle Spots (According to My Preschooler).

by Bethany Dunn

March 02, 2009

My preschooler is almost four - well, four going on fifteen. She likes what she likes; and isn't afraid to share her preferences with you.

LOUDLY.

She's the type of kid who will plop down to another young child during library story time and say, "Hi! I'm Sis. I'm four! This is my mom, Buffany." (She has trouble saying my name. Super cute now; possible speech issues later.)

Here's her five favorite stops around town - and if you ever meet her, I'm sure she'll tell you all about them.

Her favorite sunny (or just not rainy) park is Richmond Beach Saltwater Park in Shoreline. The view is spectacular from several locations, it's got a great kids play area, and you can spend the WHOLE day down at the beach. We love to fly kites there, too.

Heading north to Everett's Imagine Children's Museum has saved us on quite a few rainy days. The traffic into Everett is usually good, parking in plenty, and the exhibits are fun. REALLY fun.

There is something special about Green Lake Park - but my daughter can't quite verbalize why. "I like the water" or "BIG PARK" is all she'll say since she's too busy playing and running around.

I can't even THINK about The Woodland Park Zoo near my daughter. She some how senses it, and then that is all she will talk about until we go.

A girl's gotta eat right? And The Old Spaghetti Factory is tops on her list. Luckily for her, it's tops on ours too - for the family friendly atmosphere and mizithra cheese. OMG the cheese.

What are YOUR favorite Seattle spots?  Read more...

Welcome to March!

by Bethany Dunn

February 26, 2009

I can't believe it snowed again, can you? My kids don't even blink and eye seeing snow on the ground, it's just like it happens all the time now.

No worries, though, the snow should be gone by the weekend and none is expected next week. Whew.

Now what to do....

Town Hall Seattle brings you their Saturday Family Concert Series - this weekend featuring Thomas Arthur, Lyrical Juggler. Just what is "lyrical juggling??" Thomas Arthur integrates juggling, music and storytelling into one fantastic show sure to entrance adults and children alike. Shows are at 11am and 1pm; tickets are required, but children under 12 are free.

Salsa comes to the Covington Public Library when The Supersones present The Roots of Cuban Music on Saturday from 3-4pm. Come prepared to learn about its history and, of course, DANCE.

Looking for just music, hold the juggling? Then head to the Mount Baker Neighborhood Community Club - Eric Ode will be performing on Saturday at 10:30am. He's a singer/songwriter who is perfect for your preschooler.

For four days, Pacific Science Center will be hosting Polar Science Weekend, through March 1. You'll be able to step in a REAL research hut and participate in polar bear crafts. Plenty to entertain the youngest and oldest in your household.

And Monday is Dr. Suess' Birthday! Celebrate at home with some green eggs and ham and then head out to one of the many libraries that are offering their own celebrations. Check with your local library system for options.  Read more...

Not Too Far: Bellingham.

by Bethany Dunn

February 23, 2009

Some days, even though Seattle has so much to offer your family, you're just itching to get out of town and experience SOMETHING ELSE, SOMEWHERE ELSE. But where to go?

Before 2005, I only knew of Bellingham as home to the one of Washington's state colleges, Western Washington University, AND a great Starbucks stop on the way to Vancouver BC. (PS. My favorite is right off the freeway at theHaggens store, just as you are arriving into town.) In the summer of 2005, just weeks after the birth of my second child (now a preschooler), my parents moved back to the Pacific Northwest after eight years living in the deep south. After a few months in Everett, they settled in lovelyBellingham. Since that time, my family and I have discovered all that Bellingham has to offer parents of young children (HINT: SO MUCH). And, while Bellingham can seem very far from Seattle, it's just 90 minutes away.

Here's some of my favorite things about Bellingham for families.

Fairhaven is a wonderful old section of Bellingham located on the south side of the city. It's home to the Fairhaven Toy Garden, which is the most adorable educational and earthy toy store you'll ever find. A great spot to pick out a special toy, or just spend a half hour or so out of the rain enjoying all their toy displays.Fairhaven is also a great place to find lunch or dinner, with many locally owned establishments to choose from. 

Another great spot for kids is the Whatcom Children's Museum, which is currently in transition. It closed at the end of 2008, but its children's elements can currently be found at the ARCO Exhibits Building (at 206 Prospect Street). In 2009, the Museum will evolve into an all-ages interactive gallery. Can wait to see what the heck that means!!

We haven't been here yet, but the Birch Bay Waterslides will definitely be on our agenda for summer 2009. Birch Bay itself is also a great place to beach combing. Speaking of water, Bellingham is also home to many spray parks, our favorite located at Cornwall Park (also home to play equipment and family-friendly nature walks).

So, next time you need to get out of town, drive north. You'll be delighted; I promise.  Read more...

One, Two, Three...Count With Me!

by Bethany Dunn

February 03, 2009

Counting to ten seems to be on the "Top Ten" (pun intended) list of "Skills for your child to develop" list. With my first child, I can distinctly remember being in the car with him and making a game of counting. It was so adorable to hear him repeat the numbers back to me; all in his own little accent. My three-and-a-half year old, while mastering MOST numbers, still gets a bit confused  Read more...

The Superbowl Is Not Entirely Preschooler Friendly.

by Bethany Dunn

January 29, 2009

With the BIG SUPER BOWL WEEKEND ahead, you may be looking for other options than constant coverage of the pre-game, game, and, of course, post-game. I know I am. The Wing Luke Asian Museum is celebrating the Year of the Ox with 50% off regular museum admission prices. They also have a special exhibit on Native Hawaiians in the Pacific Northwest to enjoy. (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.)  Read more...

Best places to play indoors in winter (or anytime for that matter).

by Bethany Dunn

January 20, 2009

While the snow may be gone (for now, anyway), it's still cold (and rainy) outside. With the official start of spring still three months away, we're all still looking for places to play and socialize indoors to stay out of the elements. But where to go and what to do? My MOST FAVORITE indoor option is to choose from the plentiful options of indoor playground sites around Puget Sound. Here,  Read more...

The weekend is almost here! Hurrah!

by Bethany Dunn

January 15, 2009

Last weekend, we had grand plans to make a visit to see the the final days of the Mr. Potato Head exhibit at the Seattle Children's Museum, but, alas, my son had a stomach bug. BOOOO. So! We're REALLY looking forward to THIS weekend - and so much to choose from. Bainbridge Island's Kids Discover Museum is hosting their " Arts Studio ", with a theme to reflect their current Arthur's World  Read more...

History Lesson: Snoqualmie Falls.

by Bethany Dunn

January 12, 2009

If you have ridden one of the trains from the Northwest Railway Museum, then you have probably experienced the beauty of the Snoqualmie Falls. It is a 268 foot waterfall located on the Snoqualmie River between the cities of Snoqualmie and Fall City. Visited by approximately one and a half million people each year, it is one of our state's most popular attractions. Near the falls, most  Read more...

Things you must do with your children in Seattle before they grow up: Volume 8.

by Bethany Dunn

January 09, 2009

Going through our archives; it appears it's been quite awhile since we've added to our "things you must do with your preschooler in Seattle before they grow up". Uh, September to be exact ! We have had such a fun and active (and SNOWY) fall and winter, our daily posts have been consumed with current events. Time to play a little catch up - here's 36-40! 36. Ride the carousel at the  Read more...

It's raining, BUT...

by Bethany Dunn

January 08, 2009

...it's supposed to stop on Friday. I truly hope that wherever you are; you are warm and safe. Looking for things to do for your preschooler during our relentless rain storm? Here's an old Seattle Savvy post on how to have fun when the rain won't stop . Looking for things to do this weekend? We've got your plans right here. It's the very last weekend to experience the Adventures of Mr.  Read more...

History Lesson: Fort Vancouver.

by Bethany Dunn

January 05, 2009

If you grew up in the great Pacific Northwest, you'll know our local history consists of three words: Lewis and Clark. But you know there's MORE to our history, right? We're going to head a bit further south from Seattle (practically, Oregon!) and look at the history of the Fort Vancouver National Historic Site just outside of Vancouver, Washington. Growing up  Read more...

Bellevue's Magic Season.

by Bethany Dunn

December 08, 2008

This year marks the 12th year that the Bellevue Downtown Association has sponsored Bellevue's Magic Season. Held traditionally beginning the day after Thanksgiving into the new year, the Magic Season will run until January 11, 2009, giving you plenty of time to head to the Eastside to experience all the magic the festival has to offer. What I'm looking forward to the most? Each evening at  Read more...

A preschooler's guide to Seattle Center's Winterfest.

by Bethany Dunn

December 03, 2008

We're just a few days into Seattle Center's annual Winterfest, so there is still so much to see and do. I've pulled together all the best activities and must-see sites of the festival - perfect for tons of family fun, whether is be for an hour or the whole day! Most activities are free or low cost, so be sure to put this on your December must-do list. Everyday at Winterfest  Read more...

Park Review: Olympic Sculpture Park.

by Bethany Dunn

November 25, 2008

The nine-acre Olympic Sculpture Park is located off Pier 70 in downtown Seattle and opened in January 2007. The creation of the park, which is certainly unique within the United State, was the brainchild of Mimi Gardner Gates (the Seattle Art Museum Director) and MarthaWyckoff (trustee of the Trust for Public Lands). While the park opened with hoopla and celebrations, I was reluctant to  Read more...

Seattle safety first: the car seat tag.

by Bethany Dunn

November 24, 2008

We always want to prepare for the worst and expect the best, right? Well, this post may be one of those subjects that you don't want to think about, but you will feel relieved how simple it is to make the preparations to set your mind at ease. With the season of holiday travel beginning this week, combined with snowy pass crossing or rainy slick roads, it's a good time to look at  Read more...

Five! Fun! Seattle! Activities!

by Bethany Dunn

November 18, 2008

Now, I don't have to tell you just how fun Seattle is for preschoolers, do I? (Oh, wait, I do! That's why I'm here.) This Tuesday were looking at five activities that make Seattle fun for our families. So many fabulous things to do - you better get started NOW. The greater Seattle area is home to many fantastic and fun children's museums. From The Children's Museum in Seattle, Imagine  Read more...

Introduction to the Official State of Washington Flower.

by Bethany Dunn

November 14, 2008

After we married I moved into my husband's home in Des Moines (Washington, natch). Our property (just 7,200 square feet) held twenty-seven rhododendron plants. Let me repeat that: TWENTY-SEVEN RHODODENDRON PLANTS. I did a little bit of research on rhododendrons and quickly discovered the they are the official flower of the State of Washington, and apparently, our property held an official  Read more...

Seattle mall play areas: the inside story.

by Bethany Dunn

November 12, 2008

The weather has taken an official turn for the worse, with rain expected for the rest of the week. So, we all need a safe, dry place for our preschoolers to run off their energy. Our local malls have a great alternative to playground equipment, and they are all ready for your crew to enjoy. Here's Seattle mall hightlights! Alderwood Mall. My local mall (a little too close if you ask my  Read more...

Seattle by the letters.

by Bethany Dunn

November 04, 2008

In November, The Savvy Source's theme is "Because a Great Book..." and today in the local city blogs we're all looking at our city "by the letters". Here's what you need to know, see and do in the Seattle are "by the letters". A = Enjoy the sights and sounds of Alki Beach in West Seattle. B = Just a ferry ride away is the beautiful Bainbridge Island . C = Seattle Center , home to many fun  Read more...

What to do this weekend that has NOTHING to do with Halloween.

by Bethany Dunn

October 23, 2008

SHHHH! Today we are NOT TALKING ABOUT HALLOWEEN. This weekend guide consists of no Halloween related events and activities. Okay, I LIED, there is ONE Halloween related activity. But it should be super fun so I made an exception. This weekend in home to this month's edition of the ever popular Baby Loves Disco . You can pre-order tickets or purchase at the door, but whatever you do: put your  Read more...

Telling time, Seattle style.

by Bethany Dunn

October 22, 2008

In a digital world, where our children see digital times listed on everything from the DVD player to the car stereo, learning to tell time has lost it's cultural importance. During my early years, it was a rite of passage to be able to read the time on the clock in my family's kitchen. Once my son learned his numbers (in preschool), it was only a few short months until he figured out what  Read more...

Pumpkins!

by Bethany Dunn

October 17, 2008

I love pumpkins. I LOVE PUMPKINS. I love pumpkins so much that I had them be a major part of my floral centerpieces when I got married (trust me, it was SPECTACULAR). And, as Halloween is approaching (quickly!), it is pumpkin season in the Puget Sound. And while we've already taken a closer look at the great farms to visit this harvest season , here we'll look specifically at the pumpkin  Read more...

This weekend guide practically wrote itself.

by Bethany Dunn

October 16, 2008

I was under the delusional belief that as the summer moved into fall and the weather cooled and the rain returned; my Thursday "weekend round-up" posts would become increasingly difficult to write. This has not turned out to be the case. AT ALL. Each week I discover more and more interesting events, festivals and workshops. And the roster of events for the upcoming weekend just further  Read more...

History Lesson: Deception Pass.

by Bethany Dunn

October 13, 2008

While not a Seattle landmark, per se, Deception Pass is located north in Island County, and should be on your short list for a day-visit. Technically, Deception Pass is a strait (narrow, navigable channel of water that connects two larger navigable bodies of water) that connects Skagit Bay, which is part of Puget Sound, with the Strait of Juan de Fuca. While breathtaking in  Read more...

Seattle's farm fest harvest guide.

by Bethany Dunn

October 10, 2008

Fall in Seattle (for those of you not totally depressed by the passing of summer) is a beautiful season, full of glorious fall colors, tastes and smells. And experiencing the farms of the Puget Sound Region is a perfect way to also see the animals and foods alike go along with it. These farms are one of the reasons life is great for Seattle families. You can live in the city with all its  Read more...

Perfect activities for a sunny Seattle fall weekend.

by Bethany Dunn

October 09, 2008

Now I realize this weekend you'll be busy with fun Halloween crafts , but there are tons of fun family activities taking place all over the greater Puget Sound this weekend. It is the season of the farm harvest, and I'll do a review of all the location farms on Friday, but what else is scheduled for this upcoming beautiful, sunny fall weekend? The Kelsey  Read more...

Welcome to October!

by Bethany Dunn

October 02, 2008

Researching and writing these weekly weekend activity picks has become one of my favorite things about writing for Seattle Savvy. I am amazed about the many fun family events that are available each weekend in and around Seattle. More times than not, my research informs what my family will be doing that particular weekend. This makes me all the more bummed that I will be out of town this  Read more...

The first REAL autumn weekend in Seattle.

by Bethany Dunn

September 25, 2008

The official start of fall, the autumn equinox, took place a few days ago on September 20. Now that the rain has arrived, there is no denying that the season has changed and we now must say goodbye to summer. But, we don't have to say goodbye to fun family weekend activities (THANK GOODNESS). And the really good news is that the weather should be looking up just in time for the weekend.  Read more...

It takes two: top five activities for your preschooler and a friend.

by Bethany Dunn

September 23, 2008

Some activities are better in numbers, especially for the preschoolers in our lives. I know my children like to share their favorite places, adventures, and experiences with their friends; and I'm sure yours do, too. Here's the top five activities for your preschooler and their buddy in Seattle. (Yes, my kids and I will say, "yes" to your invite.) 1. Visit a museum together.  Read more...

Things you must do with your children in Seattle before they grow up: Volume 7.

by Bethany Dunn

September 19, 2008

With all the excitement of the start of a new school year, it has been about three weeks since I've shared five more items from my list of 100 things to do with your children in Seattle before they grow up. I know how much you've missed it and have looked forward to checking more of these items off your list. You fire up your laptop each morning over coffee; hoping and praying that TODAY  Read more...

Warning! Another fantastic weekend ahead!

by Bethany Dunn

September 11, 2008

I'm happy to report that my family has settled into our new kindergarten and preschool routine. Both a plus and a minus of kindergarten is that my son comes home EXHAUSTED; not only is he not napping anymore, but the class schedule is much more grueling (if that can be said about the lesson plan for a five year old) than preschool was. So our night routine is basically: come home, make and  Read more...

The five best spots to meet new friends, old friends, and everyone in between.

by Bethany Dunn

September 09, 2008

Finding the perfect spot to hang out with your friends and their preschoolers can be tough. There needs to be something to entertain the kiddos AND the adults. Here's the best of the best: Seattle Center. This classic Seattle attraction has many preschooler-friendly venues - perfect for a long or short outing. You can enjoy the Fun Forest amusement area, go to the top of  Read more...

How to avoid the first week of preschool burnout.

by Bethany Dunn

September 05, 2008

Friday is finally here and that means two things; 1) the weekend is just around the corner, and 2) you made it through the first week of skill relatively unscathed (hopefully). This first weekend of the school year is a great time for resting and reconnecting, and here's some ideas to make sure that happens. Take cues from your preschooler - are they ready for a full weekend  Read more...

Just when you thought it was safe to start your weekend.

by Bethany Dunn

September 04, 2008

I thought FOR SURE that the first weekend after the start of the school year would have preschool-age appropriate events few and far between. Boy, was I wrong. Very, very wrong. This weekend is teaming with fun, family events for our community to enjoy. So get out there - the weather should be gorgeous. The Puyallup Fair is the largest single attraction held annually in the state  Read more...

History Lesson: Labor Day (plus Seattle Labor Day BONUS!).

by Bethany Dunn

September 01, 2008

The first Monday of September brings us the traditional end-of-the summer holiday, Labor Day. And while a long weekend, family barbecues and last minute school shopping (even for preschoolers!) is usually what we think about when looking forward to this holiday, do you know the history of Labor Day? The day originated in 1882 out of the New York City labor movement; the Central Labor Union  Read more...

History Lesson: Northwest Trek.

by Bethany Dunn

August 29, 2008

If you have yet to make a trek (PUN INTENDED) to Northwest Trek, then you (and your preschooler) have truly missed out on an unique Pacific Northwest experience. The 723-acre park is home to over 200 North American animals, who are free to roam the parks many lakes, meadows and woods. What might you see on your visit? You'll be able to view bighorn sheep, deer, elk, caribou, mountain  Read more...

Things you must do with your children in Seattle before they grow up: Volume 6.

by Bethany Dunn

August 28, 2008

Remember the Mt. Saint Helens eruption? Enjoy Washington grown apples? Then this volume of "Things to do with your preschooler before they grow up" is for you. Get ready for numbers 26-30. 26. Witness living history at Mt. Saint Helens . I witnessed the 1980 eruption siting on the roof of my uncle's house in Portland. The visitor's center at Mt. Saint Helens still sends shivers up my  Read more...

The five best ways to cool off in Seattle.

by Bethany Dunn

August 26, 2008

It's been pretty cool (and weird , apparently) here in Seattle the past few days, but the weather should be improving for the long holiday weekend. We may still have some hot and steamy days ahead of us before summer ends. And it's best to be prepared. Here's the five best ways to cool down in Seattle for you and your preschooler. Head to a spray park. Seattle is home to many  Read more...

Family time at Ocean Shores.

by Bethany Dunn

August 25, 2008

Need one quick trip this summer before school starts? Ocean Shores is just under three hours south-west of Seattle and has a variety of preschooler-friendly family activities that are perfect for a weekend or weekday getaway. There are many options for housing - from condos and hotels to homes and everything in-between. And plenty of fun to be had; not all of it involves sand! Pack your  Read more...

Seattle weekend plans? CHECK.

by Bethany Dunn

August 21, 2008

We're heading out for one last hurrah this weekend - over to Idaho to visit family - before school starts and my son enters kindergarten (!!!). It will just be the kids and me in the car for about six hours (ONE WAY), so if you're hanging around Seattle this weekend, you're definitely getting the better end of the deal. Anyone want to meet for lunch in Othello at the Burger King around  Read more...

Bringing the Olympic spirit home to your preschooler.

by Bethany Dunn

August 20, 2008

I believe my own personal fascination with the Olympic Games (particularly the Summer Games) began in 1984; as I watched my hero, Mary LouRetton , win the first ever gold medal in women's gymnastics for the United States. I'm not sure if it was the flag themed leotard, her numerous perfect tens, or Bela Karolyi yelling from the sidelines; but, MAN, I was hooked. (Gosh, do you remember  Read more...

History Lesson: Washington State Capitol.

by Bethany Dunn

August 18, 2008

It's never too early to start talking to your preschooler about government, and a great place to start is local government. Children respond to visual cues; a visit to the State Capital Building could jump start your little legislator. Olympia was named the capital of the Washington Territory in 1854, before the State of Washington was carved out and admitted to the union as the  Read more...

Things you must do with your children in Seattle before they grow up: Volume 5.

by Bethany Dunn

August 15, 2008

We greet you this warm Friday with volume 5 of our series "Things to do with your child before they grow up". For this edition, I can honestly tell you I have completed only ONE of these activities - can you guess which one? 21. Go camping on the Olympic Peninsula . Did you know Olympic National Forest holds an actual rainforest ? True story. 22. Bike across Lake Washington on the I-90  Read more...

What you'll be up to this weekend while I'm out camping.

by Bethany Dunn

August 14, 2008

The moment has arrived - I'll be heading out for my first EVER overnight camping trip (TWO nights) this weekend. So, I won't be around this weekend to take advantage of all the great events happening this weekend in Seattle. The good news? YOU'LL be here. And there's plenty to keep you and your family busy. Come celebrate the City of Shoreline's birthday at Celebrate Shoreline  Read more...

Hiking with your preschooler.

by Bethany Dunn

August 08, 2008

Each year my siblings, their kids, and our parents spend a week of fun (and hopefully sun!) on a lake in north Puget Sound. That's where we've been this week - at the "lost cabin" (as my son calls it), swimming, playing sports, and generally having a great time enjoying family. As the kids are getting older (my son is the elder statesman at 5), we're able to do more and more fun  Read more...

What will you be doing this weekend? Here's your guide!

by Bethany Dunn

August 07, 2008

The summer weekends keep rolling ahead - one of the great things about living in the great Pacific Northwest is that summer (while late to start) really keeps going deep into August and September. And, lucky for us, that means many more weekends filled with fun summer activities. Here's your weekend guide. Picky eaters? Head to the Taste of Edmonds , where there is sure to be something to  Read more...

Seattle's Top 5 Beaches: you know you want to know.

by Bethany Dunn

August 05, 2008

The word BEACH may not be the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Seattle (the word you probably think of first is RAIN). It's a shame, really, because we are home to many fabulous beaches, each with a different mix of attractions, all ready for you and your preschooler to enjoy. While the list is actually quite long, I'vewhittled down to the top 5 beaches. Richmond Beach ,  Read more...

History Lesson: The Northwest Railway Museum.

by Bethany Dunn

August 04, 2008

Most preschoolers like trains. But there are always the ones, and I'm sure you either know one or have one in your household, who has a slight obsession with them. Then the Northwest Railway Museum in Snoqualmie may be just the thing to send them over the edge. The museum itself was founded in 1959 as the Puget Sound Railway Historical Association and operated under that name until 1999, when  Read more...

Things you must do with your children in Seattle before they grow up: Vol. 4.

by Bethany Dunn

July 31, 2008

What adventure is next on our journey to complete the 100 things you must do with your children before they grow up? From the ocean to elephant ears, it's all included in numbers 16-20. 16. Wiggle your toes (and the rest of your body!) in the Pacific Ocean. I don't care where you do it whether it's at Ocean Shores or Orcas Island , this is MUST. 17. Welcome the troops home at  Read more...

Before you check out "The Show", you may want to start in the minors.

by Bethany Dunn

July 29, 2008

While the Mariners may be " The Show " around Seattle, alot of good, inexpensive family adventure is to be had experiencing all the fun that the minor leagues have to offer. Whether it's the Mariners' Triple A affiliate the Tacoma Rainers or the Single A affiliate the Everett Aquasoxs, a day at the ballpark is just a short drive away. One of the great things about watching minor  Read more...

History Lesson: Point Defiance Park.

by Bethany Dunn

July 23, 2008

You've heard me go on and on and on about how cool Point Defiance Park in Tacoma is. It's one of the nation's largest urban parks (top 80) and has a rich history. President Andrew Johnson reserved the land at what is now Point Defiance Park for use as a military installation - although that function never materialized. Instead, it sat undeveloped until President Grover Cleveland deeded the  Read more...

Things you must do with your children in Seattle before they grow up, Vol. 3.

by Bethany Dunn

July 14, 2008

Our journey to develop a list of the 100 things you must do with your children in Seattle before they grow up continues here with 11-15. In volumes 1 and 2 , we covered everything from the Fremont Troll to the Daffodil Parade. What fun will greet you in this edition? Take a look: 11. See a Mariner's game first hand. They might not be in the run for the pennant this year, but Safeco Field has  Read more...

Three Days In and Around Seattle: Day 2, the Kitsap Peninsula.

by Bethany Dunn

July 09, 2008

The great month of escapes continues at The Savvy Source; yesterday was day one , covering the urban Seattle highlights. We started the day at the Seattle Aquarium , played at the Seattle Center , and shopped at the historic Pike Place Market . Whew. Day two of our "Three Days In and Around Seattle" series will take us west out to the Kitsap Peninsula. Your preschooler and friends are in for  Read more...

Three Days In and Around Seattle: Day 1, Urban Seattle.

by Bethany Dunn

July 08, 2008

We're all about great escapes this July at The Savvy Source, and this week we'll be covering the closest of our great escapes - three days in and around Seattle. Lucky for us, the Puget Sound has so much to offer families with preschoolers. Odds are you'll be entertaining visitors some time (or multiple times!) this summer. I'll be offering three days of guides to satisfy the most  Read more...

"History Lesson: Gas Works Park."

by Bethany Dunn

July 04, 2008

Since many Seattlites will be converging upon the city's iconic Gas Works Park, I thought it might be a great time to look back and piece together just how this post-modern creation came to be. Because, honestly? I had NO idea until I did my research, but it is as cool as a story as I thought it would be. Beginning in 1900, the Seattle Light Company began to purchase lots on the north  Read more...

Five ways to make the most of your three day 4th of July weekend.

by Bethany Dunn

July 03, 2008

In Seattle, it's practically tradition that it rains on the 4th of July. So, it's sort of unprecedented that it will be somewhat sunny for the holiday for two, count it TWO, years in a row. Since you won't be stuck in the house with the kids all weekend, here's the best of Seattle area activities to get you moving. Enjoy Seattle at the WaMu Family Fourth . You'll find family activities  Read more...

Events preview for this weekend: it's going to be hot, hot, HOT.

by Bethany Dunn

June 26, 2008

Even though the first of July is next Tuesday (!!), only in just this past week has it really felt like summer in Seattle. The beautiful summer weather should come to a crescendo this Saturday, with temperatures expected to be in the mid-to-high eighties. So if you're not headed out camping (like my husband and son are) or out to the beach; it would be a great time to slather on some  Read more...

Things you must do with your children in Seattle before they grow up, Vol. 2.

by Bethany Dunn

June 12, 2008

I started this list a few weeks ago - a list of the 100 must-do activities for you and your children to do before they grow up and are "too cool" to hang out with mom and dad. (Am I the only one that fears this?) We covered the Fremont Troll, a visit to Pike Place Market, sledding at Snoqualmie , eating a Top Pot donut right off the conveyor belt, and riding the Tacoma Link light rail.  Read more...

Too big, too little.

by Bethany Dunn

June 11, 2008

I have a question for all you Savvy parents out there. Even with as close in age as my children are (24 months apart), we find that there are some activities that are more suited to my 5-year-old than my 3-year-old and vice-versa. As much as we like to do things together "as a family" (as the two of them always say), I would like to be able to take my older child, Bubba, to some  Read more...

Seattlizing your Father's Day.

by Bethany Dunn

June 10, 2008

Father's Day is THIS Sunday, have you heard? There's really no way of NOT knowing, with all the internet offers, emails and commercials. I've really got to step up my game this year, since my kids and husband provided with breakfast in bed (AFTER I slept in past 8:00 am!) hand-made cards and a great present for Mother's Day. I've got something special picked out, but in case you don't,  Read more...

Rainy day reminder.

by Bethany Dunn

June 04, 2008

Can you BELIEVE the rain on Tuesday? It is JUNE, people. I actually had to root around my kids' closets to find appropriate shoes to wear. And raincoats! I had to find those, too! The rain will be hanging around for the next few days, if the professionals can be trusted. As a reminder, here's the post I wrote last month about some terrific rainy days ideas for you and your kids.  Read more...

Budding art critic: how to make the Seattle Art Museum come alive for your children.

by Bethany Dunn

June 02, 2008

You don't need to wait until your kids are school aged and reading to introduce them to art museums. There are great ways to enjoy the Seattle Art Museum (SAM) with children. The first step is to go to their website and click on "Kids & Families" under the "Programs" tab. There you will find a calender that lists all the children and family activities that are taking place at SAM.  Read more...

The littlest Picasso: introducing fine art to your young children

by Bethany Dunn

May 15, 2008

When your children's art projects consist of finger paints and macaroni noodles, you may think they are too young to appreciate "real" art. But, actually, 2-4 years of age is a perfect time to do so. Even if you don't know anything about art (me!), you can help expand you and your children's knowledge at the same time. Visit your local library and check out children's art books . Some  Read more...

History lesson: The Tacoma Narrows Bridge.

by Bethany Dunn

May 14, 2008

Almost universally, kids love bridges (or maybe its just mine!). I have been meaning to take them down to Tacoma and do the drive over to Gig Harbor and back to show them the "old" and the "new" Narrows Bridges . It's almost been one year since the new Tacoma Narrows Bridge opened to connect Tacoma to Gig Harbor and the Olympic Peninsula. To get the most out of the experience, here's some  Read more...

Day tripping near Seattle.

by Bethany Dunn

May 13, 2008

Sometimes you've just got to get out of dodge. You ask the kids where the want to go this weekend, and you hear g rumbles when you mention the usual suspects like the Imagine Children's Museum or Woodland Park Zoo. The kids are restless and the weather is great, so it's a perfect time to pack up the car and venture outside of the metropolitan area. Here are some great recommendations for  Read more...