The East Bay offers many family-friendly, free events throughout the summer months. There are many activities for families this weekend, including tours of UC Berkeley's botanical gardens. Many of these activities include access to an aquarium so they're great for young children.
Children's Fairyland on Lake Merritt is one of the most loved East Bay family events. There are many attractions at this family-friendly attraction, including live animals. You can also enjoy special performances and arts and crafts as well as unlimited rides for children. In addition, children can take part in trick-or-treating at the treat stations.
Six Flags Discovery Kingdom, located in Vallejo, is another East Bay attraction that is loved by younger children. The attraction features merry-go-rounds, a stream train, and small rides for young children. You can also have character visits for children younger than 5.
Oakland Zoo also hosts many family-friendly events. These include free rides on the Spooky Bob train. In addition, there are free, hands-on science activities and treats. Children can trick-or-treat wearing costumes.
Another East Bay family tradition is the annual Pedalfest. This event celebrates bicycling. There are many events and activities that can be done for free, such as daredevil stunts or art bike shows. You can also enjoy live music on a pedal powered stage.
For more East Bay family events, take your kids to Museum of Children's Art. The museum displays artwork by children, and organizes hands-on arts & crafts activities for children. Workshops for families are also possible. If you're looking to do something different, you can visit UC Berkeley Botanical Garden. It has a greenhouse with carnivorous species. A science party is also possible.
The Oakland Nutcracker, a popular East Bay family tradition, is also held every year at Oakland Theatre. Oakland Nutcracker provides children with the opportunity to play in smaller theaters and larger theatres. You will also have the opportunity to meet and take part with costume-themed activities.
Another family-friendly event is the Early Explorers Cove, which is designed for kids ages 0-5. The Oakland Museum of California hosts this family-friendly attraction. It features live animals as well as a miniature garden. You can also participate in a craft or dressup activity.
Many other family-friendly events are available in the Bay Area, such as San Francisco Railway Museum (which is open to all ages) and the USS Hornet (a World War II aircraft carrier). Contact the East Bay Tourism Authority to find out more family-friendly events. The authority solicits suggestions and keeps a running calendar of activities for families. If you're looking for more East Bay events, you can also visit the Red Triangle, Berkeley Parents Network, and FunCheapSF. These websites offer information and ideas for family-friendly events, as well articles for babies or toddlers.
If you're looking for more family-friendly East Bay events, you can also visit the Berkeley Art Museum, which offers holiday science parties. The Museum of Children's Art has maker events as well as trips and tours to other UC Berkeley locations.
FAQ
How long can I be outside with my kids for?
Weather conditions will affect the amount of time that you spend outdoors. It is important to avoid exposing your children too much heat or humidity.
Children should not be left unattended in direct sunlight, especially during hot weather. They should limit the amount of time they spend outdoors to only 30 minutes.
In rainy weather, children should not be allowed to play outside longer than 15 mins. If you must leave them unattended for longer, remember to bring extra water and snacks.
Should I let my child run around barefoot?
Yes! Running barefoot strengthens muscles and bones, promotes hygiene, and improves posture. It also prevents blisters, cuts, scrapes, and bruises.
Shoes may be an option if your child has sensitive feet. Also, if your child's feet are dirty or sweaty, you may want to wash them first.
You should always supervise your children while they are playing outdoors. When doing so, ensure you provide adequate supervision by watching your child from a distance.
And when your child plays in the grass, ensure she doesn't eat plants or drink water. Keep your child out of areas with high grass to prevent her from doing this.
Is it safe to let my child climb trees?
Trees are very sturdy structures. But climbing trees presents risks if your child isn't able to assess his or her physical capabilities.
To climb a tree higher, you must use both your hands and your legs. To keep balance, your child will need to be able both to use his/her arms and legs.
Also, your child should be able and able to move easily between branches. This requires strength, agility, and coordination.
Do not force your child to climb a tree if she isn’t ready.
It's possible to climb trees together, by sitting on lower limbs or using ladders. You can also take a seat on a tree branch and read each other books.
How can I find out if my child has the ability to ride a bicycle safely?
Children just learning how to walk will need to learn balance skills before pedaling a bicycle. Begin by getting your child to stand on one foot. Then, gradually increase the distance between her feet. After she is proficient at this task, she can stand on one foot and then switch to both feet.
Children already walking should be able to hop on a tricycle or scooter. Your pediatrician will tell you if your child requires special equipment to make sure he or she is safe.
Your child is at least four years old when you can start to ride a bike. Your child will need to learn how to balance on the two-wheels. Next, show your child how to steer by using hand signals. Show your child how safe it is to apply the brake.
Safety must be the first priority, no matter what age your child is. You can teach your children to be safe by teaching them to cross the street with both eyes and to use helmets when riding bikes.
What are the top 5 outdoor activities that kids love?
There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, no matter where you live. Here are five of our favorite activities we think every kid should have the chance to experience at least once.
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Visit the Zoo. Zoos make for great family time. Going to a Zoo allows you to be close to the animals. It's also an excellent opportunity to teach your children about conservation. There are special programs offered by some zoos that help educate visitors on the problems facing endangered species. For more information, you can visit the website or call ahead to learn about classes and events being offered at your local Zoological Society.
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Visit a Nature Center - Nature centers are wonderful places to learn about the natural world. There are usually exhibits, interactive displays, and lots of hands-on activities. You will be amazed at the variety of cool toys that you can give your children! A visit to a nature center can be a great excuse for a hike in nearby forests or parks.
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Take a Bike Ride - When was the last time you took your kids on a bike ride? You'll find that they will enjoy riding bikes just as much as you did growing old. Bike riding is not just good exercise, it's also an excellent way to get to know your local area and uncover hidden treasures.
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Play a Sport Game - These games are not just for children who grew up with them. Even today, sports games continue to entertain people of all ages. Finding the right game for your group is key. All of these options are great for families who want to spend time together.
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View a Movie under the Stars. If you have a big yard, this is one of the most enjoyable ways to enjoy the outdoors. All you need to do is grab a blanket or lawnchair, a picnic basket with food and drinks, and maybe even a grill. Get your blankets out and go outside. You will be amazed at the comfort it gives you to relax under the stars.
Why is family gardening important
Family gardeners are passionate about growing food to feed their families.
Children can learn responsibility and develop patience, cooperation, time management, problem-solving skills, and tolerance. In addition to helping parents grow their self-esteem, gardening also teaches them how they can care for the environment.
Gardens also help adults feel more connected to nature, which may lead to lower stress levels and improved health. Our brains release happy hormones when we spend more time outdoors. This makes us happier and healthier.
The benefits of family gardening go far beyond physical and mental health. Gardens can be a great way to give back to society.
Statistics
- The U.S. outdoor recreation economy supports about 5.2 million jobs, generates nearly $788 billion in consumer spending, and accounts for 2.1 percent of GDP. (wilderness.org)
- You can likely find a 5K to get the family signed up for during any part of the year. (family.lovetoknow.com)
- Later in life, they are also more likely to result in delinquency and oppositional behavior, worse parent-child relationships, mental health issues, and domestic violence victims or abusers10. (parentingforbrain.com)
- Remember, he's about 90% hormones right now. (medium.com)
- A 2020 National Recreation and Park Association survey found that about 82 percent of people in the U.S. consider parks and recreation “essential.” (wilderness.org)
External Links
How To
Is it safe for me to go camping with my kids?
This is a crucial question, as you might not be aware of how dangerous camping has become. There are many dangers, including poisonous snakes, bears, wild animals, tornadoes, lightning storms, flash floods, hurricanes, avalanches, wildfires, blizzards, and even terrorism.
Parents aren't always aware of these dangers. Because they think camping is safe and fun, most parents don't realize this. The reality is that campers now face greater risks than ever in recent years.
In fact, between 1980 and 2001, nearly half of all injuries and deaths in young campers were caused by accidents. This means that more than 1,000 children died camping between 1980 and 2001.
Additionally, North America now has more venomous animals than it did in 1900. Additionally, there are more poisonous plants, reptiles, fish, and insects.
There are also more ways to get hurt or killed when camping. According to statistics by the National Park Service (NSS), there are about 200 vehicle-related fatalities each year close to national parks.
Experts estimate that the average family spends $1300 per day on outdoor activities such hiking, boating or fishing. This includes equipment and food, as well gas, lodging, transportation, and other costs.
But remember that when you take your kids camping, you'll probably be spending far more money than you would if you had stayed home. A weekend trip that costs $1,300 could easily cost twice as much.
It might be hard to believe that you should take your children camping before thinking about it. It is better to go camping with your children than stay inside?
It is definitely better to avoid extreme weather conditions. But here are three reasons why you should let your kids experience nature outdoors:
It will inspire their imagination. Do you know what else happens outdoors? The sky opens and the stars shine. Wind blows through trees. This helps kids to see the big picture and understand the nature of the world. It encourages your children to dream of flying, exploring space and becoming an astronaut.
It will improve their overall health. Camping gives you many chances to exercise outside. This can lead to healthier lifestyles later on in life. Sports participation is associated with lower rates of obesity, diabetes and heart disease in children. They also consume less junk food, and drink fewer sugary drinks.
It will teach them responsibility. Camp helps your kids learn to share responsibilities, cook meals, clean up after their peers, and respect each other. These lessons are invaluable no matter what stage of childhood your kids are at. They're also good skills to have when they become teenagers and adults.