parentingpluspurpose

Train up a child in the way he should go, Even when he is old he will not depart from it. ~Proverbs 22:6

Family Days Out In Washington…Fun and maybe some NEW ideas! March 24, 2012

Filed under: Parenting Tips — Parenting Plus Purpose @ 3:32 am
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Family days out in Washington

Federal Way
Wild Waves waterpark is a thempark and waterpark it has nine water slides, over 20,000 square foot wave pool, speed slides, river ride, and a massive interactive water tree house. Very popular is the Zooma Falls.with a five story drop!
Grand Mound
Tadpole Pond takes the famous Great Wolf indoor waterpark fun — outdoors.
Blaine
Birch Bay Waterslides is located in beautiful Blaine, Washington. With its wide variety of activities and highly trained staff, Birch Bay Waterslides is a waterpark designed and operated for the family.
Chelan
Come to Slidewaters and enjoy our exciting water playground. Acres of beautifully landscaped grounds and sparkling, heated water compliment our fantastic waterslides.
Seattle
- offers fun, exciting ways to discover more about the amazing Puget Sound that surrounds you! One of the many fun places to visit if you’re looking for things to do in Seattle with kids!
Sequim
We would love to have you come and visit the animals at OLYMPIC GAME FARM, here in Sequim, Washington. A family run business, OLYMPIC GAME FARM is home to many animal species, both endangered and non-endangered.
Seattle
For more than 100 years, Woodland Park Zoo has been a cherished community resource and a unique urban oasis. Generations of Puget Sound families have come to the zoo to marvel at the animals and be inspired by the peaceful and beautiful surroundings.
Mead
Lions and Tigers & Bears, Oh My…. but wait, there is more… Leopards and Jaguars and Servals and Pumas, and reptiles and…. Oh heck, just come and visit ..Just Zoo It! You can even hand feed a Lion or Tiger. You can Shop. You can Eat.
Seattle
Zoomazium is the newest addition to Woodland Park Zoo, world-renowned for our naturalistic animal exhibits and education programs.
Tacoma
Spend the weekend at the Zoo enjoying free hands-on activities, games and crafts and visit with local environmentally-focused organizations.
Friday Harbor
San Juan Island is well known for splendid vistas, saltwater shore, quiet woodlands and orca whales. But it was also here in 1859 that the United States and Great Britain nearly went to war over a dead pig.
Eastsound
The Funhouse is a non-profit community center that fosters fun and learning with dozens of hands-on kid-friendly science exhibits, complete audio and video production studios and more. One of the many fun places to go if you’re looking for things to do …
Spokane
Come Experience the Difference at Wonderland Family FUN Center! You can play the newest arcade games, battle friends in thrilling laser tag, or play goofy indoor miniature golf.
Seattle
Lil’ Kickers Logo Lil’ Kickers is a nationally renowned, non-competitive child development soccer program for boys and girls ages 18 months to nine years.
Vancouver
Let the little ones explore our nearly 1500 sq. feet of play areas while you unwind and relax in our cozy atmosphere.
Friday Harbor
Come and visit The Whale Museum.In the Gallery of Whales you’ll learn about the natural history of marine mammals, with a special focus on the orcas of J, K and L pods living in the waters of the San Juan Islands.
Eastsound
We serve Orcas Island residents and visitors to the island by offering new exhibits, presentations and speakers, tours, research assistance, the annual Historical Day Fair, open house celebrations, and regular visitation hours.
Everett
Where FUN begins and LEARNING never ends with hands-on exhibits for kids ages 12 months to 12 years and their family, school group or other organizations. One of the many fun family places to go if you’re looking for things to do with kids in Washington…
Seattle
Experience flight as you never have before. Step into the Personal Courage Wing and experience stories of courage as told through a collection of 28 fighter aircraftin a setting that will simply amaze you.
Seattle
If you’re planning on stopping in for a few hours or making a whole day of your visit, you’re sure to have a great time and find plenty to do at Pacific Science Center. One of the many fun family places to go if you’re looking for things to do with kids…
Seattle
SAM is one museum with three sites: the Seattle Art Museum Downtown, the Seattle Asian Art Museum in Volunteer Park and the Olympic Sculpture Park on the waterfront in Belltown.
Seattle
Open daily, the Burke Museum welcomes all visitors who are curious about the natural wonders of Washington state, the Pacific Northwest, and the Pacific Rim. Discovery awaits you.
NE Bellevue
Welcome to the Rosalie Whyel Museum of Doll Art. Established in September, 1992 in Bellevue, Washington (near Seattle), the Museum houses more than 3000 dolls on display as well as for sale.
Aberdeen
Throughout its history the Aberdeen Armory Building has been a source of civic pride and activity. Indeed, at the time of its construction, the Armory was hailed as a truly imposing structure.
Hoquiam
Of the twenty-six rooms we occupy, we use seventeen for exhibits. We display thousands of artifacts, documents, and photos upstairs and down.
Long Beach
The World Kite Museum & Hall of Fame is the only American Museum dedicated exclusively to the history of kites, kitemakers and famous kite fliers.
Westport
Our historic museum building was built in 1939 to serve as the Coast Guard’s Lifeboat Station, Grays Harbor.
Raymond
Explore the world of the 19th century traveler at the Northwest Carriage Museum. The museum is home to 23 beautifully restored horse drawn vehicles.
Seattle
The Northwest African American Museum presents the stories, history and culture of African Americans in the Pacific Northwest. Engaging exhibitions, hands-on projects, and docent led tours are just some of the ways to experience this unique Museum.
Tacoma
In The Washington State History Museum people of all ages can explore and be entertained from Washington’s past speak about their lives. Through interactive exhibits and theatrical storytelling. One of the many fun family places to visit if you’re lo…
Chehalis
Veterans Memorial Museum is dedicated to the men and women who have honorably served our nation in the Armed Forces, during peacetime and war, so we might enjoy the freedoms we have today.
Pullman
The Museum of Art at Washington State University offers a wide variety of changing exhibitions of regional, national and international art and artists, as well as educational programs featuring lectures, a brown-bag lecture series, and docent tours …
Ritzville
Located alongside the Burlington Northern tracks, the Depot is a clear reminder of the importance of the railroad in the economy and social life of old Ritzville.
Pasco
The Three Rivers Children’s Museum and Heritage Arts Center serves as an educational resource, complementing and extending the learning of home, school, and community in the arts, sciences and humanities.
Bellevue
Come explore, play and learn together at KidsQuest Children’s Museum! Enjoy hours of delight and discovery at this innovative hands-on museum for children and families designed to engage kids from infancy to age ten.
Olympia
Where fun and learning go hand in hand! Featuring more than 60 fun, interactive exhibits for kids ages birth to 10 and their parents or caregivers. One of the many fun family places to go if you’re looking for things to do with kids in Washington.
Tumwater
With a collection of working aircraft, educational exhibits, historic information, and even two interactive mobile displays for children, the entire family is sure to discover something interesting at the Olympic Flight Museum. Come and see us today!…
Everett
The Flying Heritage Collection is a premier aviation attraction, with something of interest for visitors of all ages. Whether an individual, family or large group, FHC’s exclusive offerings let you experience powerful history that changed the world.
Tacoma
The Children’s Museum of Tacoma was established in 1985 by parents, teachers, and community leaders dedicated to creating unique resources for families in Tacoma and the South Puget Sound Region.
Mukilteo
When you combine creative and skilled gymnastics teachers with imaginative and enthusiastic children, you get GYMagine! Increase fitness, develop strength & balance, promote coordination & flexibility all WHILE HAVING LOTS OF FUN!
Seattle
You can see it in their eyes the first time they run into your arms after class. The new found look of glorious, sparkling confidence. Confidence that will build a foundation to succeed in whatever they may try today, and for the rest of their lives….
Kirkland
Our specially-designed inflatable equipment, clean facility, and commitment to excellent service make us a great choice.
Lynden
Skateway is roller and inline skating rink. We have Open skating times, birthday parties, private rentals, Learn to skate & tiny tot skate classes, Beginner speed classes, private figure skating lessons, and we sell skates & skating equipment.
Port Orchard
SK8TOWN, a brand new skating rink in South Kitsap, opened its doors on Sept. 28, with a ribbon cutting ceremony with city officials and the Port Orchard Chamber of Commerce. The facility has over 23,000 square feet including the roller rink, arcade, …
Burlington
The Skagit Skating Club classes are open to all boys and girls regardless of experience. Different ages and abilities will be grouped together. Parents may skate at no charge if they wish to help their children.
Marysville
The Marysville Skate Inn is your place for family entertainment.
Puyallup
Tiffany’s Skate Inn – Roller Skating / Family Fun & Event Center is a clean, fun, family oriented facility.
Vancouver
Kids Club Fun & Fitness offers one-stop shopping for fitness and fun for the whole family. The club offers: Drop-in play in our Jungle Playland & Ballocity Arena, Open swims in our 90 degree pool with slides & toys and much more!
Seattle
As part of the tour, visitors will tour the largest building in the world by volume (472,000,000 cubic feet). On the Boeing flight line, visitors will see airplanes in various stages of flight test and manufacture for airline customers around the world..
Bremerton
The USS Turner Joy (DD-951), famed Navy destroyer from the Vietnam War, is now maintained and administered by the Bremerton Historic Ships Association.
Toppenish
The Toppenish railroad depot was built by the Northern Pacific Railway in 1911. For 50 years it served as the transportation center of the community. In 1993 the depot and adjacent freight house were purchased from the Burlington Northern Railroad….
Seattle
Argosy Cruises, a family-owned and locally-operated Seattle company, is a Washington State premier cruise company, offering guests public and private cruises, Royal Argosy brunch, lunch and dinner cruises and the Tillicum Village Salmon Bake experience…
Seattle
Tour Seattle by land and water on a 90-minute adventure tour on a World War II amphibious landing craft! Great fun for the entire family! It’s a party on wheels that floats! Open year-round!
Eatonsville
Northwest Trek Wildlife Park is a treasure for wildlife enthusiasts. The signature tram tour through the 435-acre free-roaming area offers the opportunity to spot different species of animals as they wander through forests, wetlands and meadows.
Westport
The majestic California Gray Whale can be seen off the Washington coast every year in March, April and May.
Wenatchee
One of Americas grandest and Spectacular drives!” National Geographic Traveler. This 400 mile self-guided driving tour circles through the heart of Washington from the waters of Puget Sound across the Cascade Mountains and into the high desert climate.
Tenino
Outdoor wolf sanctuary and education center which offers guided walking tours. Visitors can see and learn about wolves (and maybe hear them howl). Variety of educational programs available for groups of any age.
Olympia
Priest Point Park has a deep and rich history. Missionaries of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate came to this area in 1848 to minister nearby Indian tribes.
Olympia
The Visitor Center includes The Nature Shop, an information desk, a view of the freshwater marsh, and interpretive exhibits. It is open Wednesday through Sunday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m, but closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
Grayland
This is the kind of place for which kites are made. Grayland Beach runs along the Cranberry Coast and draws folks to its great beachcombing, clamming and horseback rides along the water.
Seattle
Entertainment Pavilion contains: 25 foot Climbing Wall, Laser Tag, Bumper Cars, Prize games, Video games, Mini-Golf, 4 Kiddy Rides and Fun Foods. New this year is a 25 ‘ Inflatable Super Slide.
Spokane
Located in the heart of Downtown Spokane on the site of Expo 74 (the World’s Fair), this urban 100 acre park offers… * Natural beauty of lush green meadows and a cascading river. * Scenic skyride over the Spokane Falls. * Thrilling experiences…
Seattle
Built in 1962, the Space Needle served as the symbol of that year’s World’s Fair. It has since become the symbol of Seattle, and one of the most recognizable structures in the world.
Seattle
Two Levels of arcade fun wait for you at this entertainment complex!
Seattle
While we are most famous for our sideshow-like museum, we also offer a wide array of Northwest native art, imported arts and crafts from around the world, as well as Seattle and Washington state souvenirs and memorabilia.
Manson
The farm has a variety of attractions to please young and old alike. Our hours are Monday through Saturday 10 am to 6pm and Sundays 10am to 4 pm. Kids and adults can enjoy gold panning, petting zoo with lots of fun critters such as Chaos the pig!
Blaine
Our three main attractions are the 18 hole Miniature Golf Course, the Go-Kart Track, and the Miniature Train ride through the Forest of Imagination. One of the many fun places to go if you’re looking for things to do with kids in Washington..
Leavenworth
There’s fun for the whole family in a festive atmosphere! You’ll love playing on the 18 hole Bavarian theme miniature golf course, and everyone enjoys a game of basketball or badminton on the Sport Court!
Arlington
Bryant Blueberry Farm and Nursery is a family-owned, child-friendly farm in the Pacific Northwest near Seattle, using sound environmental and sustainable agricultural methods providing a safe and fun experience for kids.
Grayland
Kenanna R.V. Park is a recreational vehicle park located on the Washington coast. We have 90 large, all pull through, full hook-up sites, secluded tent sites and the beach is just a short walk away.
Methow
A total campground on the Methow river of north central Washington state, offering partial & full RV hookups, tent sites, on site rental units, horse rides for kids, swimming, fishing, rafting & tubing in the river.
Republic
Customers keep coming back and bringing their friends and families with them. All of our 33 full hook-up sites, some pull-thru sites, are paved with large grassy areas between for space and comfort.
Copalis Beach
Cottages…Tent Sites…RV Sites.Tidelands Resort is an Official Sasquatch Preserve. We are located on the Pacific coast at the base of numerous sightings for the renowned “Bigfoot”.
 

The 10 Best Apps for Kids March 14, 2012

Filed under: Parenting Tips — Parenting Plus Purpose @ 1:53 am
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The 10 Best Apps for Kids

child reading book on ipad

1.  TeachMe: Toddler

School your toddler on six different subjects: letters, letter phonics, numbers, shapes, colors, and counting. You can choose specific questions, customize lessons, and review your child’s progress on each subject. Kids earn stickers, which can be used to create colorful scenes, when they get correct answers, or they can earn coins for a reward system you create. When your child outgrows these lessons, there are TeachMe: Kindergarten and TeachMe: 1st Grade apps available. (99 cents; iPhone, iPad)

2. Toddler Teasers SortingToddler Teasers was created when two parents realized that their 2-year-old was better at operating an iPhone than most grown-ups are. There are different educational apps to choose from on the Toddler Teasers site, but our favorite is Sorting. Little ones learn numbers, shapes, and letters by sorting them into containers and treasure chests. There are four interactive scenes with voiceovers and colorful animations to make the educational process fun. Once sorting skills have been mastered, move on to a quizzing app. Make sure to check out the website for special promo codes and deals.($1.99; iPhone, iPad; toddlerteasers.com)

3.  Tozzle

Puzzle apps are a big hit with moms, and this app seems to be the most popular. It includes more than 40 puzzles that can help your toddler improve shape recognition and motor activity. If she needs help finding the right piece to a puzzle, a helping arrow appears to lend a hand. Once a puzzle is solved, children can play around with funny sound effects by tapping the screen. When the kiddies go to sleep, test out your own puzzle-solving skills — the app’s creators boast that it can keep everyone from 2 to 99 entertained! ($1.99; iPhone, iPad)

 

4.  Monkey Preschool LunchboxIt’s no surprise this is the number-one preschool app available in the iTunes store. This collection of six different games teaches kids ages 2 to 5 about colors, letters, numbers, shapes, differences, and more. Parents and children love the animated monkey that helps with lessons along the way. Each player earns stickers after winning a game, but, best of all, the app is easy to navigate so kids can play on their own — perfect for when you’re cooking dinner and need to keep them busy! (99 cents; iPhone, iPad, Android; monkeypreschool.com)

 5.  Memory Train

Improve your child’s recollection skills by hopping on a train to the circus with Spacey the elephant. As the train whizzes by different backgrounds, he will need to pay close attention to featured objects and then recall colors, shapes, numbers, and more. Four can play at a time, so the family can compete to earn stars, badges, and peanuts (elephants love them!). Plus, with 10 levels, you’re sure to find one suitable for every age group. (99 cents; iPhone, iPad)

 

6.  Playtime TheaterYour little one can showcase his storytelling skills by creating his own play and puppet show! The customizable, interactive, and recordable show includes characters, props, and sound effects, and it’s set in a medieval castle. Kids ages 5 and up can even use their own voices to act out scenes. Future shows will include trips to outer space, a pirate ship, and a dinosaur world. ($2.99; iPad only; playtimetheater.com)

 

7. Doodle ProTired of rummaging through your bag for scraps of paper when your kid feels like drawing? This free app means the end to that nuisance — and your child will never be bored again at the doctor’s office or on a long car ride. Doodle Pro lets her create unique drawings with shapes and colors. For more advanced artists, there’s a pencil tool for sketching. You can even save the artwork and email it to family and friends or use the app to jot down notes and to-do lists. (Free; iPad only)

 8.  Bookworm

Suitable for older children learning to read, this educational word search game can improve comprehension and boost vocabulary. It features Lex the Bookworm, who encourages kids to form words by linking letters left to right and up and down. The bigger the word, the more points you earn. If you run into trouble, simply shake the iPhone to re-scramble the words and start over. Play the classic version or challenge your child with a timed match. ($2.99; iPhone, iPad)

9.  Zoodles Kid ModeA series of fun and educational videos and games for kids ages 2 to 10, Zoodles allows you to browse by subject (cognitive and creative development, math, reading, etc.) and choose the programs most suitable for your child. It also puts your device into a “kid safe” mode so you don’t need to worry about her wandering onto any other sites or opening up other apps. (Free; iPhone, iPad, Android; zoodles.com)

10.  Easy Kid TimerAre you constantly running late because you can’t get everyone out of the house on time? Does your child always dawdle? If so, you’re not alone, and this app, which teaches the concept of time, is popular with moms. You can easily customize it with your own pictures and task descriptions (getting ready for school, for instance, or cleaning the room). It can reinforce the importance of patience, too. When your child asks for a treat, set the timer so that he has to wait a little for it. He’ll learn that good things come to those that wait — without whining. ($1; Android only; appbrain.com)

 

 
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