FF - Feb/Mar 2018

MEMORIES START HERE

DISNEY A F T ER DA R K !

SWEET VALENTINE CRAFTS!

THE BEST NEW BOARD GA ME S!

SO MUCH TO LOVE! ES ADVENTUR FOR SNOWY DAYS!

FEBRUARY/MARCH 2018 FAMILYFUNMAG.COM

EASY HANDMADE PASTA!

A POP-UP PLAYHOUSE TOO!

©2018 Pepperidge Farm, Incorporated.

The snow will fall throughout the night— A foot already fell!

The fire warms their little hearts, A Snow Day will as well!

Inspired by the Matson Family of Burlington, VT #GoldfishTales * GoldfishSmiles.com

contents F E B / M A R 20 18

create 11 | QUEEN OF THE CASTLE Transform cardboard boxes into an amazing playhouse.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY DON DIAZ. STYLING BY KRISTINA RODGERS. GROOMING BY CASEY GOUVEIA. ON REMI: TOP BY CREWCUTS. ON CHRIS: TOP BY GAP; JEANS BY LEVI’S; SOCKS BY ANONYMOUS ISM.

14 | HAPPY (CHINESE) NEW YEAR! Celebrate with a confettibreathing dragon!

18 | SHARE A LITTLE LOVE Sweet cards and crafts for Valentine’s Day

dig in 23 | FRIES Three ways to spin this classic food 24 | THE STIR Eat the rainbow on St. Patrick’s Day, teach kids how to bread chicken, plus adorable Super Bowl cake pops!

26 | PASTA, PRESTO! The kids will love helping with these easy homemade noodles.

29 | SOUP SWAP Host a party for your friends that keeps on giving!

32 | THIS KID CAN BAKE! One 11-yearold shares her favorite whoopie pie recipe.

nest 34 | A BARKWORTHY BASH Cute ideas for your puppy’s birthday

36 | SNOW MUCH FUN Get bundled up for outdoor games that are only for chilly days!

40 | BUSY WORK Keep the crew entertained with an activity book.

42 | LET THE GAMES BEGIN! The best new family board games

44 | FAMILY-ROOM IN EVERY ISSUE

2 | big fun 4 | share 62 | workbook 64 | last bite

REFRESH Simple tricks to get out of a winter slump

explore 49 | THE HEIGHT

ON OUR COVER REMI, AGE 4

OF FUN Go on a skydiving adventure— indoors!

TOP BY CREWCUTS

Photography by DON DIAZ

Prop and Wardrobe Styling by KRISTINA RODGERS

Grooming by CASEY GOUVEIA

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50 | #WANDERLUST Five worldly trips a little closer to home

56 | DISNEY AFTER DARK Our park-bypark guide to nightlife with Mickey

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FEB/MAR 2018

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big fun YOU’LL NEVER FORGET

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“Because we imagine, we are free.”

Posted on February 25, 2017, by @missmelis1112

The Backstory

“We had nothing to do on one brisk winter evening, so my husband, the kids, and I decided to ‘get lost’ and have a spontaneous adventure.

We often go out and explore new areas. This time we went to the local lake and stumbled upon a huge, skull-like rock. My husband and kids love to build forts at home, so we all worked together to create the wooden structure around the rock. My husband and I rounded up the larger logs and driftwood to build the frame, while the kids found smaller sticks and placed them where they thought best.

I loved seeing all three of my kids work together and feed off each other’s imaginations. After it was built, we played pirates until it was time for dinner. This photo reflects both their creativity and ingenuity as they bring to life this amazing fantasy world.”

Photographer Melissa Haugen, Roseville, CA

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share WHAT’S UP IN OUR WORLD AND YOURS

finish this thought

My daughter was in love with Hans from Frozen, of all people!

And she was only 3.

WHO WAS YOUR KID’S FIRST CRUSH?

Jessica Helinski Columbus, OH

My son was head over heels in love with the same girl since preschool and gave her a cupcake ring on Valentine’s Day. We moved school districts last year, and they still write letters to each other! They are too cute!

Kerri Anderson Plum City, WI

My 6-year-old son completely loved his babysitter!

He was heartbroken when she got married.

Jennifer Cox Mountain Home, ID

When my son was in preschool, he was in love with a girl name Rachel and talked about marrying her. One day I asked if he was going to marry her, and he said, “No, I don’t have a tux! ” Mary Fessler Centerville, OH

When my son was in kindergarten, he wanted to take a classmate on a Valentine’s date. He said, “I need you to buy me some flowers and a nice suit.”

HAVE MORE FAMILYFUN ONLINE! We want to hear from you!

Show us your projects and ideas with #HowWeFun

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FEB/MAR 2018

@familyfunmag

@FamilyFun

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WESTEND61/GETTY IMAGES.

Allison Cockrill Austin, AR

Volunteering in your community is a great way to spend a Saturday.

share The Great Kindness Challenge: Family Edition Let’s create a kinder world. Take a week, a month, or a year.

Have fun and complete as many acts of kindness as you can.

Smile at 25 people.

Take a treat to your local firefighters.

THOMAS BARWICK/GETTY IMAGES.

JOIN US IN THE FAMILY KINDNESS CHALLENGE When it seems like there’s nothing but stressful news in the world, there’s only one thing to do: Spread as much joy as you can! A new program called The Great Kindness Challenge: Family Edition encourages—and empowers— families to not only deepen their connections with each other, but their communities too.

The program grew out of an in-school initiative created in 2012 by the Carlsbad, CA-based nonprofit Kids for Peace, led by veteran teacher and cofounder Jill McManigal. She and a group of students brainstormed a checklist of 50 ways to be kind at school during a single week.

“It was a way for kids to do something positive to create a culture of inclusion, joy, and respect,” McManigal says. The program was a hit at the three founding schools, and the word quickly spread, inspiring hundreds of new schools to join the challenge every year. In 2017, 10 million students in more than 15,000 schools worldwide participated.

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The next goal, with the help of partner Hasbro and its Be Fearless Be Kind initiative, is to bring the program into your home. To get started, simply make a pledge to complete 50 acts of kindness—use the program’s list on the right or make your own!

Everything kicks off the week of January 22, but there’s no time limit to finish. Take a month or a year. The hope is that this will remind you that one family can make a difference, and you can give back to your community.

“We want parents to know that empathy and kindness are critical skills we all need to cultivate, especially with our kids,” says Karen Davis, senior vice president of global philanthropy and social impact at Hasbro Inc. in Providence, RI. Are you ready? Save this page, put it on the fridge, and start checking off your family’s good deeds. Share your experiences by tagging #GKCFamilyFun on social media. The FamilyFun editors will be joining in too. We can’t wait to see all the good you accomplish!

Donate needed school supplies.

Thank a bus driver.

Do a household chore without being asked.

Leave a fl ower on someone’s doorstep.

Donate something to an animal shelter.

Be kind to yourself and eat a healthy snack.

Take a board game to play at a senior center.

Call your grandparents or an esteemed elder.

Read a book to a younger child.

Walk or bike instead of driving.

Make a thank-you card for your librarians.

Say “thank you” to a police officer.

Entertain someone with a happy dance.

Bake cookies and share with your neighbors.

Create a family gratitude jar.

Say “good morning” to fi ve people.

Cheer for every player on both teams.

Pick up and recycle trash in your neighborhood.

Deliver a special gift to a child in the hospital.

Make a new friend or welcome a new neighbor.

Take a family walk outside.

Draw a heart in the sand or dirt.

Send a card or gift to a military family.

Write a thank-you note to your mail carrier.

Walk or pet an animal— but ask first!

Make a wish for a child in another country.

Go a full day without complaining.

Volunteer in your community.

Hold the door open for someone.

Say “hi” to someone who looks sad.

Learn to say “thank you” in a new language.

Write a happy message with sidewalk chalk.

Embrace your family with a big hug.

Paint a kindness rock and randomly place it.

Teach something to a younger sibling or friend.

Share food with someone who is hungry.

Write or draw a loving note for someone.

Sincerely compliment fi ve people.

Make and display a “kindness matters” sign.

Post a positive message on social media.

Raise funds and donate to your favorite cause.

Let someone go ahead of you in line.

Watch the sunrise or sunset together.

Help plant a garden.

Breathe, stretch, and think a happy thought.

Refl ect on acts of kindness you witnessed today.

Cut out ten hearts and leave them on ten cars.

Create your own kind deed.

FEB/MAR 2018

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funfinder FUN FINDS FROM OUR ADVERTISERS

ticket-worthy

WINTER FLICKS It’s the perfect time for a family outing to the movies.

These are our favorites coming to theaters soon.

MOM’S NIGHT OUT We celebrated some of our favorite mom bloggers at our 2nd annual “Mom’s Night Out” social influencer event in New York City on October 3.

Moms enjoyed an evening meeting our editors, mingling with other bloggers, interacting with our sponsors, and trying fabulous products.

In partnership with:

February 9

February 16

March 9

PETER RABBIT The classic nursery story is brought to life with a mix of animation and live-action. The bunny with no pants battles Mr. McGregor to win the love of their next-door neighbor.

Expect lots of attitude and hijinks from Peter as he stops at nothing to prevail.

EARLY MAN Go on a journey back to the beginning of time in this hilarious stopmotion animated movie.

Your whole tribe will love watching as the cavemen and women, led by main character Dug, compete in a soccer game to save their home from being taken over by Lord Nooth and the Bronze Age City.

A WRINKLE IN TIME After Meg Murry’s scientist father goes missing, she and a friend embark on a fantasy adventure through time and space with help from celestial beings Mrs. Which, Mrs. Who, and Mrs. Whatsit.

Astrophysics, good and evil, and other dimensions? Your kids will be hooked.

Sponsored by:

product we love

Arts and Craftin’ Calling all little artists! The Museum of Modern Art has the perfect kit for every mini Matisse or Pollock. Designed by MoMA educators, each kit has guided activities relating to a well-known modern artist that are both educational and fun. Kids can paint and cut bright shapes like Matisse, try different brushstrokes and color-mixing techniques like Vincent van Gogh, or even create a splatter-paint work like Pollock.

Ages 8 and up, $20 to $25; target.com

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FEB/MAR 2018

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familyfun classic

share

PRESIDENTIAL SWEETS Looking for some long-weekend fun?

Honor a couple of our country’s past leaders with these cookies.

For Abe: Start by drawing a face on a vanilla wafer using a black edible marker.

Use one square of a chocolate bar as the top of the hat, and a thin slice of chocolate as the brim. Place mini chocolate chips around the rest of the circle for the perfect beard.

Secure all the features using a toothpick dipped in frosting.

For George: Again, start by using a black edible marker to draw a face onto a vanilla wafer cookie. Cut mini marshmallows into pieces to use for George’s hair. Then for the collar, flatten and cut another mini marshmallow.

Place a mini chocolate chip in the center.

Secure all the features with frosting applied with a toothpick.

Better Meals Begin Here

It’s easier to get to a better meal when you start with our ready-to-heat rice because it pairs perfectly with fresh veggies and lean proteins that make creating a balanced meal quick and convenient. So, be sure to visit UncleBens.com when you need a dash of dinnertime inspiration. ®/™ Trademarks ©Mars, Incorporated 2018

Jacob Sanchez Diagnosed with autism

Lack of speech is a sign of autism. Learn the others at autismspeaks.org/signs.

create

COOL THINGS TO MAKE AND DO TOGETHER

This lantern really glows!

QUEEN OF THE CASTLE With cardboard boxes, basic materials, and a few tricks (Velcro!) to make it collapsible (easy storage!), this play castle banishes boredom for good.

BY JODI LEVINE PHOTOGRAPHY BY LUCY SCHAEFFER

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FEB/MAR 2018

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create

SO CRAFTY

The windows really open!

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

• Two 20x20-inch boxes • One 30x30-inch box • Duct tape • Roll of kraft paper • Craft knife • Plastic chain (available at Home Depot)

You don’t need a huge fridge box—just get a big one from Staples!

Add extras to make your castle the best in all the land. Secure them in place with ⅞-inch Velcro squares.

WINDOW BOXES

Cut a shoebox in half, and hot-glue on paper leaves.

• Pipe cleaners IVY

• Hot glue • 2x3-inch Velcro squares 1. Turn the boxes into open-ended columns: Fold up the flaps on the top and bottom of each box. Tape in place.

Add some ivy!

Realistic chains complete the drawbridge door.

2. Make a drawbridge: Draw a template for the door on the kraft paper and cut out.

Trace it onto the lower portion of the tall column. Cut out.

3. Cut a small hole on either side of the door opening—each should be just large enough for the chain. Thread the chain through and knot the ends inside the column. To attach the chain to the door, poke the ends of a pipe cleaner through the front of the door on each side. Twist onto the chain and secure with hot glue.

4. Cut interior and side doors so the kids can pass through.

FEB/MAR 2018

Make ivy with paper leaves, twine, and hot glue.

TORCH

To make a torch, hot-glue one end of a papertowel tube closed. Wrap silver duct tape around the open end. Cut flame shapes from tissue paper; put double-stick tape inside the top of the torch.

Stuff balled-up tissue paper and a batteryoperated tea light into the top.

Attach flames.

WINDOW PULLS

Make window pulls on the shutters with wooden beads and pipe cleaners.

FLAGS

5. Make windows that open and close: Draw a template on paper and mark the center line. Trace onto the boxes, and cut out, leaving the sides connected so they can open and close.

Make flags with cardstock and dowels, and then decorate them.

6. Cut notches across the top of the castle.

CURTAIN

7. Attach the sides to the center box using Velcro.

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FREE REIGN

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BANNERS

Adorn all the windows!

Duct-tape or hot-glue fabric inside the door.

@FAMILYFUNMAG

PROP STYLING BY STEPHANIE HANES. GROOMING BY SYLVESTER CASTELLANO. RUG BY ABC CARPET + HOME. WALL ART BY TARGET AND ALLMODERN.COM. THROW PILLOW BY ALLMODERN.COM. GIANT STUFFED DRAGON BY MELISSA & DOUG.

Pop-Up Castle

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HOLIDAY HAPPY

HAPPY (CHINESE) NEW YEAR! Sometimes called the Lunar New Year or Spring Festival, the Chinese New Year will be celebrated on February 16. It’s a time to honor ancestors, feast on traditional foods, and make fun projects with classic symbols!

BY KIMBERLY STONEY PHOTOGRAPHY BY DAVID A. LAND

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

• Regular-size balloon • 9-oz. paper cup • Clear tape • 12x12-inch cardstock • Colorful paper scraps/cardstock • Craft glue • Hot glue • Confetti 1. Tie a knot on the neck of the balloon. Cut off the top half.

2. Cut out the bottom of the cup.

3. Stretch the balloon opening over the bottom of the cup and tape the edge in place. Set aside.

4. Cut a 10-inch-diameter circle from the cardstock. Trim the edges to make a dragon as shown.

5. Trace the top of the paper cup to make a mouth, and cut out.

6. Glue on paper eyes, horns, nostrils, and more. Turn the paper over and hot-glue the top of the cup to the back of the mouth.

7. Fill the mouth with confetti and pull the knotted balloon end to release the fun “fire”!

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Dragons are a symbol of power, strength, and good luck. They are a common sight in Chinese New Year parades.

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PROP STYLING BY ELIZABETH MACLENNAN. GROOMING BY DANIELLA.

WHAT TO DO

to fudge, s e m t co d tasting from i n h e mm e n e co rig r o e t w ft

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le

®

Perfectly Fudgy. Uncommonly Good.

create

VALENTINE’S DAY

SHARE A

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FEB/MAR 2018

LITTLE

LOVE This Valentine’s Day, the kids can put their hearts into playful cards, festive candy covers, and lovable decorations for their favorite people!

CR AFTS BY MORGAN LEVINE

PROP ST YLING BY ELIZABETH MACLENNON

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create

2

VALENTINE’S DAY

TIP Using an assortment of pretty papers gives this simple wreath a big impact.

TIP Let the kids decide which colors the birds and trees should be!

1

1. LOVEBIRD CARD

2. HEART WREATH

3. LOLLIPOP WAND

4. RAINBOW CARD

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

• Decorative paper • 4x6-inch flat card • Glue stick • Felt-tip pen

• Decorative paper • 14-inch embroidery hoop or floral ring • Glue stick • Hot glue

• Wand template • 8x11-inch colored paper • Glue stick or tape • Lollipops • Decorative straws • Washi tape

• 12x12-inch rainbow paper • Heart template • 3x5-inch envelope • White or iridescent paper

1. Cut out a branch shape.

Glue to card.

2. Cut out two hearts and fold in half. Glue two sides together.

Glue down the other sides onto the card.

Repeat to make more birds.

3. Cut out smaller hearts.

Glue on as wings. Attach paper beaks.

4. Draw on eyes, write a message inside, and share.

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1. Cut out 33 leaf shapes and fold each in half.

2. For each flower, cut out 4 identical hearts by stacking paper and cutting all at once. Fold each in half and glue the sides together to make a flower shape.

You’ll need about 18.

3. Hot-glue enough leaves and flowers to cover the hoop.

FEB/MAR 2018

1. Copy and cut out our template on page 62.

2. Crease along each line (the lines should be inside the folds).

3. Fasten the tabs with glue or tape.

4. Place lollipop into straw, and slide on the heart. Secure in place with a leaf made from green washi tape.

1. Working lengthwise, accordion-fold the paper into four 2½-inch sections.

2. Copy and cut out the heart template at right, and trace 4 times (vertically) onto the folded paper. Trim, leaving straight edges intact. Tape the 4 heart rows together to make one strand.

3. Cut scallops into the envelope.

4. Cut a cloud shape for the end of the rainbow, and tape in place.

Get creative by adding a tree trunk and leaves!

3

Find the template for this on page 62!

TIP Set up a little assembly line with a parent folding and the kids cutting, and make enough for a whole class!

4

Look for rainbow paper at craft stores.

GROOMING BY DANIELLA @ WORKGROUP.

WE

GIVING BACK!

National 4-H Council and JOANN are teaming up to bring more hands-on 4-H programs to kids in need nationwide. Here’s how you can make a difference (and get some sweet rewards too):

1. Sign up for the new 4-H Rewards

Card and shop with purpose at joann.com/4-h/. You’ll save 15% on total in-store and online purchases every day, and JOANN will give a minimum of 2.5% of every eligible transaction to support 4-H.

RAINBOW CARD TEMPLATE Photocopy this simple heart to make quick work of tracing!

2. Support the 4-H Paper Clover

Campaign by visiting your local store between February 1 and 28, 2018.

Donate $1 or $4 at purchase, and you’ll receive a clover featuring a special Valentine’s Day craft from FamilyFun. With each $4 donation, you’ll get $4 off your next purchase.

3. Join hundreds of 4-H youth on February 3, 2018, from 11 A.M. to 2 P.M. to make and deliver custom Valentine’s Day cards to local children’s hospitals, senior citizen centers, and others in the community. Visit your local JOANN store to participate.

ACTUAL SIZE! Copy this template at 100% and trace away!

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They look ferocious, but inside they’re just no antibiotics ever.

®/©2017 Tyson Foods, Inc.

digin WHERE FOOD & FAMILY MEET

spin it!

FRIES Three cheers for the ultimate kid food! They’re crunchy, dippable, and totally yummy. Here, three ways to transform them (just for fun!) into a crowd-wowing dinner, a sweet snack, and a super-cheesy side.

Frozen fries to the rescue!

FOOD STYLING BY JOY HOWARD. PROP STYLING BY ANN LEWIS.

BY AMY PALANJIAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY MICHAEL PIAZZA

TASTY TACOS Fill warm flour or corn tortillas with refried beans, prepared fries, corn, and shredded cheese. Top with fresh lime juice, salsa, and/or sour cream. You can also try them burrito-style!

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CINNAMON-SUGAR SWEET POTATO FRIES Immediately after sweet potato fries come out of the oven, sprinkle with brown sugar and cinnamon.

Serve warm with vanilla yogurt for dunking.

CHEESY WAFFLE FRIES Melt 1 Tbs. butter over medium-low. Whisk in 1 Tbs. flour for 1 minute. Whisk in ¾ cup whole milk, bring to a simmer, and stir in 4 oz. shredded cheddar.

Drizzle over fries to serve!

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dig in THE STIR

Munch your way through the colors of ROYGBIV with this playful menu.

Red & Orange Salad

ADD A BONUS TREAT!

Try our leprechaun cookies on page 64.

fun food

CELEBRATE ST. PATTY’S DAY

Yellow & Green Pasta

Roll Up a Clover

INGREDIENTS 3½ cups flour ¼ cup sugar 1 packet rapid rise yeast 1 tsp. salt ¾ cup milk, warmed to 110°F to 115°F 6 Tbs. unsalted butter, melted and cooled, plus 4 Tbs., melted for brushing 2 eggs, at room temperature

1. In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, sugar, yeast, and salt. In a medium bowl, whisk together the milk, butter,

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A

and eggs. Combine the two mixtures and stir until blended.

2. On a lightly floured surface, knead the dough for about 10 minutes. Add a little more flour if the dough is sticky.

Place it in an oiled bowl and turn to coat. Cover the bowl with a damp towel and let rise until doubled in size, about 1½ hours.

3. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper. Punch down the dough and knead it for a few minutes to release the gas bubbles. Halve the dough; return one portion to the bowl and cover. On a lightly floured surface, roll out the other half into a 4½x8-inch rectangle.

4. Cut the dough rectangle lengthwise into six ¾-inch

B

C

strips. Cover them with plastic wrap. On a clean surface and working with one at a time, roll and stretch a strip into a 19-inch-long rope.

Form a shamrock as shown above, then place it on the baking sheet and cover with plastic wrap. Repeat with the remaining dough, placing six rolls on each baking sheet and spacing them 2 inches apart. Let the dough rise for another 45 minutes.

5. Heat oven to 350°F. Brush the rolls with melted butter. Bake, switching each pan’s position halfway through, until the rolls are golden brown, about 25 minutes. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Cook fettuccine in boiling water, adding a handful of frozen peas at the last minute. Meanwhile, sauté thin-sliced chicken breast and trimmed sugar snap peas in olive oil.

Remove from heat.

Mix the chicken, peas, and pasta with ½ cup plain Greek yogurt, a handful of grated Parmesan, and about ¼ cup of reserved pasta cooking water.

Serve with parsley, lemon juice, and salt and pepper to taste.

Blue, Indigo, and Violet Parfait Toss blueberries, blackberries, and purple grapes with cinnamon sugar. Layer with whipped cream or yogurt.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOE POLILLIO.

Get ready to go green on March 17! Your kids will feel extra lucky this year with these holiday-themed dishes that you can make and enjoy together.

With this hands-on recipe for Shamrockin’ Rolls, little bakers can put a new twist on a dinner favorite. Serve them with your rainbow meal!

Thinly slice one red and one orange bell pepper and an apple.

Toss them with a cup of matchstick carrots. Dress salad with 2 Tbs. each of olive oil and cider vinegar, ½ tsp. cumin, ¼ tsp. paprika, and salt and pepper to taste.

Eat Your Medicine For belly woes of all kinds, try probiotics—the good-for-you bacteria that can help aid digestion and make tummies happier. These naturally fermented foods are packed with ’em: Yogurt is a great place to start. Look for a brand that contains “live and active culture,” and add it to smoothies or top it with granola.

Miso is a fermentedsoybean paste that you might know best as a Japanese soup.

To make the soup, boil a cup of water, turn off the heat, then whisk in a tablespoon of miso, some sliced scallions, and a few tofu cubes.

Kefir is an Eastern European cultured-milk drink that’s rather tart.

Luckily, you can grab kids’ versions in squeezable pouches or frozen bars.

Fermented pickles can be found at a farmers’ market or in the refrigerator case of a natural-foods store. Look for just cucumbers, salt, and seasonings in the ingredients list.

Sauerkraut is not for the faint of palate, but lots of kids love it—and it’s a great way to turn a hot dog into a health-boosting meal. You’ve got the right kind when the ingredients are only cabbage and salt.

EXTRA CREDIT: Kimchi is the spicy Korean version of salted and fermented cabbage and radishes, and it’s got the knockyour-socks-off impact of sauerkraut on steroids (and on fire).

—Catherine Newman

tktk tktktktk

Super Bowl Sweet

kitchen skills

ALVAREZ/GETTY IMAGES. COURTESY OF BH&G.

DINNER 1-2-3!

Is your budding chef ready to assist with a main course?

Breading is a fun thing for bigger kids to try out. Teach them the process courtesy of the education cooking experts at Raddish Kids.

FLOUR Lightly coat your choice of food (like chicken) with flour, which creates a sticky surface for the eggs to cling to.

EGGS Dip the food into whisked eggs, allowing any excess to drip off.

The egg wash will act as “glue” for the breadcrumbs.

BREAD Slowly lower the food into breadcrumbs and press to coat.

This final layer will bake into a crispy crust!

Go to Raddishkids.com for more on their cooking boxes, which include recipes, skill cards, tools, and more. (Score $15 off a year’s membership with the code FAMILYFUN.)

Score big with these no-bake cookie-dough pops! Start by beating ½ cup each of butter and peanut butter for 30 seconds. Add ½ cup brown sugar, 1 tsp. vanilla, and ½ tsp. salt. Beat until combined. Then beat in 1¼ cups oat flour and ½ cup rolled oats (toast ’em in the oven first). Stir in 1 cup mini semisweet chocolate pieces.

Roll dough between waxed paper to ¾-inch thick. Cut out footballs using a cookie cutter.

Reroll and repeat with remaining dough. Melt 4 oz. semisweet chocolate. Dip pop sticks into melted chocolate and insert into footballs. Chill cutouts for 20 minutes. Melt another 12 oz. semisweet chocolate. Dip each pop into chocolate and let set on waxed paper. Melt 4 oz. white baking chocolate and use to pipe football laces onto pops.

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dig in

PASTA WORKSHOP

You may want to crack the eggs for younger kids!

PASTA, PRESTO!

Try cutting the noodles with a pizza slicer!

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FEB/MAR 2018

Pasta from scratch?

You got it! With just three basic ingredients and a little elbow grease, you and your crew can pull together a batch in no time.

Working the dough as it changes from egg and flour to a velvety smooth texture is a true example of the magic of cooking, and shaping it into noodles is a task that will be fun and familiar even to young chefs. So clear the counter and get started!

MAIN IMAGE: JACOB FOX. INSET IMAGES: ANDY LYONS.

Boost your kitchen cred by teaching the kids to make fresh pasta—no special equipment required!

SHAPE UP Once you’ve mastered the noodles in the main recipe, give one of these hand-cut variations a try. Cut them straight or use a pasta wheel cutter with a crimped edge.

Bow-Tie Slice the dough into 1x2-inch rectangles, then pinch the center to form a bow.

Garganelli

INGREDIENTS 1½ cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting 2 whole eggs, plus 1 egg yolk Pinch of salt

1. Place the flour in a large bowl (or right on the counter) and make a well in the center.

Crack the eggs into a small bowl, then pour them into the well, along with the egg yolk.

Whisk until smooth.

2. Slowly incorporate the flour into the egg mixture, pulling in a little at a time from the side.

Once the mixture becomes too thick to stir, continue blending it by hand into a soft dough.

3. Turn out the dough onto a lightly floured surface. Use the heel of your palm to knead the dough, turning it over itself after each motion, until it is smooth and satiny, about 10 minutes. If it’s sticky, sprinkle it with more flour as you work. Wrap in plastic and let it rest on the counter for 1 hour.

4. Cut the dough into quarters.

Working with one portion at a time (keep the rest covered), roll the dough into a long

rectangle. Halve it crosswise and set aside one half.

Continue rolling the remaining strip, flipping it occasionally, until it is a thin (about ¼ inch), 4x10-inch rectangle.

5. Dust both sides with flour, then slice lengthwise into ½-inch-wide pappardelle strips and set aside. Repeat the rolling and slicing steps with all the remaining dough. Keep covered and refrigerated until ready to cook. (It should be prepared on the same day it’s made.) To cook the pasta, boil it in generously salted water for 3 to 4 minutes.

Cut the dough into 2-inch squares.

Cover a small dowel or pencil with parchment paper.

Starting from a corner, wind the dough around the dowel to form a tube.

Maltagliati Roughly cut dough into 1½- to 2-inch squares or diamonds.

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LET’S EAT!

dig in

RECIPE S BY MEGA N GORDON ILLUSTR ATIONS BY MERCEDE S LEON

A party that supplies you with fully prepared dinners for busy weeknights to come?

Sign us up! Hosting a soup swap is a genius way to spend time with friends and fill your freezer. Plus, there’s big payoff for minimal effort: Each guest makes only one batch but leaves with four meals. It’s a total win-win! Here’s how to plan the ultimate swap, with four crowdpleasing—and kid-friendly—soups to bring to the soiree.

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FEB/MAR 2018

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dig in

LET’S EAT!

Tex-Mex Chicken & Noodle Soup

Leave at least an inch of headspace in your quart-size freezer container to allow for expansion. And be sure to label each to avoid mystery meals!

PREP TIME 15 MIN. COOK TIME 50 MIN. SERVES 10 TO 12 MAKES 3 QUARTS + 1½ CUPS

INGREDIENTS ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil 3 cups celery, diced 1 lb. carrots, peeled and diced 2 tsp. ground cumin 1 tsp. salt ½ tsp. black pepper 4 garlic cloves, minced 2 quarts reduced-sodium chicken broth 2 lbs. skinless, boneless chicken thighs, chopped

1. Invite a handful of friends over with plenty of notice!

3. Ask everyone to bring a copy of their recipe to share.

2. Ask each guest to bring a few quarts of cooled soup in freezer-safe containers.

(A quart usually makes dinner for two adults and two kids; each recipe here makes three quarts, plus a little extra for tasting at the party.) Adjust the tasting amounts based on your number of guests.

4. At the party, put out small cups or glasses and spoons for soup sampling. And offer cheese, crackers, fruit, other nibbles, and some wine so it’s festive and filling.

5. Let friends take home as many containers of soup as they brought!

8 oz. spaghetti, broken into bite-size pieces 2 cups frozen corn 1 cup jarred salsa verde Avocado, sour cream, cilantro to garnish

For the best texture, make sure not to overcook the pasta!

1. Warm oil over medium.

Add celery, carrots, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, 5 to 7 minutes.

Add garlic and cook 1 minute.

Add the broth, cover, turn the heat to high, and bring to a boil.

2. Remove lid, reduce heat to low, and stir in the chicken.

Cover. Simmer for 20 minutes.

3. Remove lid, raise the heat to medium, and add the spaghetti.

Cook 6 to 7 minutes or until pasta is just tender. Do not overcook. Stir in the corn and salsa verde. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve topped with desired garnishes.

PER SERVING 312 CALORIES; 25g PROTEIN; 10g FAT (2g SAT. FAT); 31g CARBS; 3g FIBER; 5g SUGAR; 949mg SODIUM

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You can use brown rice or barley in place of the farro if desired.

Mini Meatball Soup with Farro

Sweet Potato Carrot Soup

Cheesy Broccoli & Split Pea Soup

PREP TIME 25 MIN. COOK TIME 40 MIN. SERVES 10 TO 12 MAKES 3 QUARTS + 2 CUPS

PREP TIME 10 MIN. COOK TIME 30 MIN. SERVES 10 TO 12 MAKES 3 QUARTS + 1½ CUPS

PREP TIME 15 MIN. COOK TIME 45 MIN. SERVES 10 TO 12 MAKES 3 QUARTS + 1¾ CUPS

INGREDIENTS

INGREDIENTS

INGREDIENTS

Nonstick cooking spray 1½ lbs. ground beef ½ cup breadcrumbs ⅔ cup grated Parmesan 2 eggs, lightly beaten 1 cup lightly packed spinach, finely chopped 1½ tsp. salt, divided

4 Tbs. coconut oil

6 Tbs. unsalted butter

2 medium yellow onions, peeled and chopped

1 large leek, rinsed and chopped

1 (10 oz.) bag shredded carrots

3 cloves garlic, peeled, and smashed

3 lbs. sweet potatoes, peeled and chopped

2 quarts reduced-sodium vegetable broth

1 tsp. salt

2 cups green split peas

1 tsp. cinnamon

1 tsp. salt, plus more to season

2 Tbs. extra-virgin olive oil

1 tsp. turmeric

¼ tsp. ground black pepper

1 small onion, peeled and chopped (about 1 cup)

6 cups reduced-sodium vegetable broth

3 lbs. broccoli, chopped

2 medium bell peppers, cored and chopped (about 2 cups)

1 can coconut milk

3 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese

½ tsp. freshly ground black pepper

8 oz. green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces 2 tsp. Italian seasoning 1 quart reduced-sodium beef broth 1 (28 oz.) can crushed tomatoes 3 cups prepared farro

1. Heat oven to 375°F. Coat a baking sheet with nonstick cooking spray. In a large mixing bowl, combine the ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan, eggs, spinach, 1 tsp. salt, and pepper. Form into tablespoonsize balls and transfer to baking sheet. Bake until cooked, about 16 minutes.

2. In a large pot, warm the olive oil over medium. Add the onion, peppers, and green beans, stir, and cook about 5 minutes. Add the remaining ingredients except farro. Cover and increase heat to mediumhigh. When simmering, add the meatballs and farro. Warm through. Top with Parmesan.

½ tsp. ground ginger

1. Warm the oil over medium.

Add the onions and cook, stirring, 5 to 7 minutes.

2. Add the carrots, potatoes, salt, spices, and broth. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer 20 to 25 minutes.

3. Puree soup and whisk in the coconut milk.

PER SERVING 234 CALORIES; 2g PROTEIN; 12g FAT (10g SAT. FAT); 29g CARBS; 4g FIBER; 8g SUGAR; 646mg SODIUM

1 cup whole milk

1. Melt the butter over medium.

Add the leek and cook 5 to 7 minutes. Add the garlic and stir.

2. Add the broth, split peas, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer.

Reduce heat and cook, partially covered, about 30 minutes.

3. Stir in the broccoli and milk.

Simmer, covered, about 10 to 15 minutes.

4. Allow the soup to cool slightly, then puree. Whisk in the cheese until completely melted. Serve topped with additional cheese.

PER SERVING 440 CALORIES; 23g PROTEIN; 22g FAT (13g SAT. FAT); 40g CARBS; 13g FIBER; 9g SUGAR; 895mg SODIUM

PER SERVING 412 CALORIES; 22g PROTEIN; 21g FAT (7g SAT. FAT); 35g CARBS; 7g FIBER; 6g SUGAR; 647mg SODIUM

FEB/MAR 2018

31

Little sis Lyla, 8, can’t wait!

THIS KID CAN BAKE! It’s time to hop into the kitchen with this month’s featured foodie.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY JOHN M. HERR

Eleven-year-old Jordan Hadel of Westfield, NJ, got her start in the kitchen making chocolate chip cookies with her grandma at just 3 years old. Now, one of her favorite things to make is whoopie pies. “Homemade ones are just so much better than the ones you can buy,” she explains. Here, Jordan shows us how to whip up her version of these treats. (Hint: The secret ingredient is even more chocolate!)

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FEB/MAR 2018

KIDS IN THE KITCHEN

dig in

“I learned how to do a lot of things, like use the mixer, by watching my parents make dinner.”

Jordan’s Whoopie Pies MAKES ABOUT 12 PIES

INGREDIENTS Cakes 2 cups all-purpose flour ⅔ cup cocoa 1½ tsp. baking soda 1 stick butter (½ cup), softened 1 cup firmly packed light-brown sugar 1 large egg 1 tsp. vanilla 1 cup buttermilk Granulated sugar Filling ¾ stick unsalted butter (6 Tbs.), softened 2 cups powdered sugar 1 jar (7½ oz.) marshmallow cream, such as Marshmallow Fluff 2 tsp. vanilla

“No more than six on a cookie sheet—they get really big.”

3 tsp. unsweetened cocoa powder 1 cup mini semisweet chocolate chips

1. Heat oven to 350°F. Grease 2 large baking sheets. In medium bowl, combine flour, cocoa, and baking soda. In large bowl, with mixer on high speed, beat together butter and brown sugar until light and fluffy, about 3 minutes.

Add egg and vanilla, and beat to combine. Alternate adding flour mixture and buttermilk to the butter mixture in small batches, starting and ending with flour mixture. Mix until smooth.

2. With a tablespoon, spoon mounds of batter 2 inches apart onto baking sheets. Sprinkle half with granulated sugar. Bake 15 minutes or until tops are puffed and cakes spring back when touched. Transfer to a rack to cool completely.

“Check the cakes with a toothpick a few minutes before the timer runs out so you don’t overbake them.”

“I added more chocolate to the filling because it’s my favorite food!

I just love anything chocolate.”

3. In medium bowl, with mixer on high speed, beat together butter, powdered sugar, marshmallow cream, vanilla, and cocoa powder until smooth, about 3 minutes.

Makes about 1½ cups of filling.

4. Spread a rounded tablespoon of filling on flat sides of half the cakes. Top with other cakes. Roll sides in mini chocolate chips.

“It’s cool to see how all these different things turn into something good.”

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nest MORE FUN AT HOME

family pets

A BARK-WORTHY BASH LAURA ADANI/STOCKSY.

Do the kids want to throw your pup a birthday party? It’s easy (and lots of fun!)

BY CHRISTINA VERCELLETTO

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FEB/MAR 2018

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InSiDe, e’S A oLf

©2018 Blue Buffalo Co., Ltd.

o n To LoVe eAt.

Made with more of the chicken, duck or salmon dogs naturally desire.

All dogs descend from wolves, so it’s not surprising they share many traits — especially a love for meat. That’s why we created protein-rich, grain-free BLUE Wilderness.®

Love them like family. Feed them like family.®

SNOW MUCH FUN

Who needs spring?

Cool temps and, if you’re lucky, snow can actually make for some pretty awesome outdoor play.

Try these ideas!

BY SHAUN DREISBACH PHOTOGRAPHY BY JULIA VANDENOEVER

TOGETHER TIME

TAKE A HIKE

BLOW FROZEN BUBBLES No need to save all those jars of bubble solution you’ve got around for summer! They’re fun to use now—and a mini science lesson at the same time. Here’s what to do: 1. Pick a day that is below 32°F and not windy. (It has to be below freezing for the bubbles to, you know, freeze.)

2. Put your container of bubbles outside to chill for a little bit before heading out—not so long that it freezes, though.

3. Blow a bubble, catch it on the bubble wand, and wait for a few seconds or a few minutes, depending on how cold it is. It will freeze into a magical-looking crystal ball!

4. You can also try blowing bubbles straight up in the air (rather than catching them on the wand) and watch them freeze midflight. This works especially well on a really cold day.

Snowshoeing allows your kids to explore your favorite hiking spots in a completely new way, and you can get them pretty inexpensively at secondhand sports stores. When my kids were little, we bought them Tubbs Snowflake snowshoes ($40; tubbssnowshoes.com), which have plastic grippers on the bottom, rather than metal ones, and are really easy to put on— great, because after getting them all bundled up, the last thing you want is to wrestle with more gear. They were a huge hit! A few things you can do while you’re tromping around: 1. Challenge your kids to find as many different kinds of animal tracks as they can. Bonus points if they can match the footprint to the critter that made it. (Not sure?

Snap a photo and look it up later.)

2. Bring binoculars and do some bird spotting. Not exactly a birder?

Me neither. So I downloaded Audubon’s free Bird Guide app, which helps you ID the species you’re looking at.

3. Play games you’d normally bring to the beach, such as Frisbee or paddleball. The hilarious irony will not be lost on your kiddos, which makes it that much more fun.

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MAKE A SNOW VOLCANO Remember that old-school science-fair project? This snowy version uses the same explosioninducing ingredients—all of which you probably have in your pantry.

Round up the kiddies and build your own lava-spewing volcanoes.

Warning: My kids had such a blast making one after another that our yard looked like a crime scene by the time they were done.

WHAT YOU’LL NEED

• A small, narrow plastic cup or old pill bottle • Baking soda • Dishwashing liquid • Red food coloring • Vinegar WHAT TO DO

1. Nestle the cup in the center of a pile of snow and mound more snow around it to form a volcano shape. (Leave the top of the cup exposed.)

2. Add a few spoonfuls of baking soda, one spoonful of dishwashing liquid, and some food coloring to the cup.

3. Now pour in a big splash of vinegar and watch the eruption!

FEB/MAR 2018

37

BUILD SNOW MONSTERS They’re more fun than your basic snowman and even easier to create: Pick up a bunch of glow sticks from a dollar store, then get your outdoor gear on and make big mounds of snow just before dusk.

Poke two holes for the monster’s eyes and place a lit-up glow stick in each hole. (Depending on the type you get, you might need to use more than one per eye.) Cover the hole lightly with snow, so you can still see its glowing eyes.

We made a whole slew of monsters just as the sun was setting ...

... and watched them come to life in the darkness. So cool!

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RENT A FAT-TIRE BIKE AND GO FOR A SPIN Known as “fatties,” these bicycles are outfitted with wide tires and rugged treads that can handle snowy roads and trails. And while they’re pricey to buy, many bike stores, ski resorts, and mountain-biking areas rent them. Bikes with fat tires ride a bit differently than regular bikes— pretty much the equivalent of running in the sand—so you’ll definitely get a workout. But they’re unique in that they can roll over almost anything. (Trust me, my kids have tried!) On a warmish day, hit a bike path or do a little off-roading to get some fresh air.

TOGETHER TIME

nest

UP YOUR SLEDDING GAME What would winter be without sledding?

You can put a fresh spin on this classic by going sled bowling. (Yes, you read that right.) Make snowballs and set them up like pins at the base of a hill, then zoom down and see who can knock the most over. Or how about a sledding relay race? Divide into two teams, and mark a start and finish line. Then have one racer from each team whiz down to the bottom and hand off the sled to the next person—who must dash up the hill and sled down. First team over the finish line wins! Of course, you’ll need some speedy sleds. So I asked a pro— Christopher Stockdale, Ph.D., an associate

professor of physics at Marquette University in Milwaukee—which kind works best. He suggests going for one with a smooth, hard plastic base, as opposed to a sled with runners or an inflatable tube. It gives you maximum contact with the snow, which means less friction and better glide.

My kids are obsessed with these Zipfy sleds ($41; amazon.com). They’re light, portable, and fast, and they’re easy to steer and stop.

Bonus: They come in a ton of cheery colors and are virtually indestructible. (Ours have survived many an exposed rock and root.)

And, yes, we do recommend wearing helmets while sledding!

FEB/MAR 2018

39

nest

BOOKSHELF

BUSY WORK A new crop of activity books provides kids with hours of creative fun—perfect for travel!

BY LEL A NARGI PHOTOGR APHY BY PETER ARDITO

Tangles: Amazing Zendoodles to Color and Draw

We’re Going on a Bear Hunt: An Adventure Field Guide

The Incredible Pirate Activity Book

by Abby Huff, illustrated by Angelika Scudamore et al.

by Bear Hunt Films Ltd.

Mix-and-match games, mazes, word searches, and drawing challenges—they’re all in here, waiting for your salty dog to swashbuckle them into submission. Ninetysix pages of fun just might be enough to get you to Grandma’s and back for multiple visits.

Ages 7 and up, Book House; $8

A bevy of starter images gets kids decorating hedgehogs, dragons, alphabets, and seashells with intricate repeating patterns, which transform into templates for them to color in. Ages 9 to 12, Capstone; $10

Look! What Do You See?: An Art Puzzle Book of American & Chinese Songs

The Big Sticker Book of Bugs

by Xu Bing, illustrated by Becca Stadtlander

For the sticker fiend in your family, this interactive book offers 500 reusable peeland-press pond bugs, dragonflies, snails, and their kind. Kids can also design butterfly wings, sketch picnic foods to attract ants, and design termite towers. Ages 5 and up, Thames & Hudson; $15

The entire content of this book is a puzzle!

First he’ll need to figure out the artist’s ingenious cipher, made up of words that look like Chinese characters. Then he’ll be inspired to work up his own messages. Ages 7 to 10, Penguin Young Readers Group; $19

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Kids start outside with “field activities” that have ’em searching for species of evergreens, things that crawl and fly, and phenomena like rainbows. Then they can continue their research in your home/lab with a host of nature projects. Ages 6 to 9, Candlewick; $14

FEB/MAR 2018

by Yuval Zommer

by David Antram

Iggy Peck’s Big Project Book for Amazing Architects

by Andrea Beaty, illustrated by David Roberts

School-age builders will learn how to stock a drafter’s toolbox and discover the way architects use balance. Kids then apply this knowledge to dreaming up their own town full of bridges, parks, and more. Ages 5 to 7, Abrams Books for Young Readers; $15

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#SCIFEST

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TAKE YOU? APRIL 5-8, 2018 | WASHINGTON, DC

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FEB/MAR 2018

LET’S PLAY!

LET THE GAMES BEGIN! Level up your next game night with one of these new picks.

Bonus: They’re all approved by families like yours!

BY ABBY K ASS PHOTOGR APHY BY PETER ARDITO

5. Bump ‘N’ Race Action Game

7. Jungle Party

Start your engines! Your favorite Disney characters are off on a high-speed race through Hot Dog Hills. Spin the wheel to change your position on the top of the course and move obstacles to help your car sail through the finish line to win a trophy.

Ages 3 and up, $20; toysrus.com

Players journey through the jungle to reach the Toad King.

On each turn, roll the animal die and count the number of matches on the board to move forward. But watch out for the snakes! If you roll one of those, the player in the lead has to move back a space.

Ages 5 and up, $35; amazon.com

6. Animal Act

8. Akin

Stage fright, schmage fright: This game has little hams singing, acting, and miming their way around the board as they try to fill three acts on their playbills.

“My kids thought t hey wouldn’t like to sing but ended up really enjoying it,” one mom said.

Ages 4 and up, $20; amazon.com

On your mark, get set, match!

After drawing a “quality card,” you race to use your “suction” piece to pick up two related cards. For example, for the quality “fluffy,” you could suction up “bath mat” and “cat.” The first person to grab two valid related cards wins the round.

Our testers rated it a “12 out of 10.” Ages 8 and up, $11; amazon.com

1. E-I-E-I-GO! It’s time to visit Old MacDonald’s farm. Shake the silo to see which animal to match. Then roll the animal dice until you have three of a kind, and make the critter’s noise to win. “It’s a fun game that’s cute and silly,” one 6-year-old player said.

Ages 4 and up, $20; mindware .orientaltrading.com

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9. Miss Bernard Is a Wild Card!

Based on the My Weird School book series, this game is about rhyming. Start with two cards, and take turns drawing three more to create a funny sentence about your teacher. Each card has a different point value, and the player who creates the most unique five-card sentences worth the most points wins.

Ages 6 to 10, $20; amazon.com

10. Ninja Squirrels This is a fast-paced game of color matching and nut snatching. Players flip cards until they get a match—then they have to race to grab the same color nut. Whoever collects the most acorns wins!

“I loved that all my kids, even my son with special needs, could play together,” one mom noted.

Ages 7 and up, $26; amazon.com

Looking for more fun ideas? Check out our Family Game Night! board on Pinterest for our favorites from years past, plus bonus recipes!

2. Mole Rats in Space Players work together to climb ladders and slip down air shafts to help the Mole Rats gather equipment to make their escape.

If the Mole Rats get out before getting bitten by snake invaders, everyone wins. “It was the best board game I’ve ever played,” one 8-year-old tester told us.

Ages 7 and up, $20; amazon.com

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3. Lil’ Lemonade Stand-Off This unique game teaches kids how to take turns while also building memory and money skills: Pick a card. Turn the card over, and complete the order on the tray from memory. The player to earn the most money wins. Ages 5 and up, $20; learningresources.com

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4. Lady Richmond After wealthy Lady Richmond’s suspicious death, all her belongings are auctioned off.

You have to use your sneakiest skills to secure the best items to win. “I loved the math involved,” one 11-year-old tester said.

Ages 8 and up, $30; habausa.com

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►

USE A MIRROR to brighten the space.

▲

TRY WALLPAPER for playful color.

▲

ACCENT WITH COPPER for more sparkle.

▲

DIY AN ACRYLIC FRAME to show off art.

◄

SWAP HARDWARE to transform a table.

▲

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ADD PILLOWS to up the cozy.

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GROW A HOUSEPLANT and lift your mood.

FEB/MAR 2018

HAPPY HOME

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1. PULL IN NATURAL LIGHT To balance the naturally straight lines of a room and maximize light on dark days, try a round mirror.

If it’s at least two feet in diameter, you’ve even got yourself a new statement piece! Wood Octagon Mirror, $130; worldmarket.com

1

2. TRY A TOUCH OF SPARKLE Warm up your space with blush-toned copper accents.

From curtain rods to mantel décor and furniture, copper looks both classic and modern—and it can add a sweet touch of shimmer.

2

DIY FLOATING FRAMES Wooden canvas stretchers are a smart way to frame artwork—they cost only a few dollars per piece, and you can totally customize the size!

3. EMBRACE CALM COLOR Sure, you might not want to repaint an entire room with kids underfoot, but you can easily add color, pattern, and happy shades of blue with removable wallpaper. Cover one wall to transform the room—no muss, no fuss.

Geo in Blue, $40 per 2x4-foot sheet; chasingpaper.com

WHAT YOU’LL NEED • Wooden canvas stretchers (available at art supply stores) • Annie Sloan’s paint in charcoal (optional) • Plexiglas cut to size (Lowe’s or a glass store will usually cut it to size for free) • Painter’s tape • Drill • -inch drill bit • Copper tacks • Hammer • Sawtooth picture hanger • Clear glue dots

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4. PLAY WITH PATTERN Update the look of your favorite family snuggle spot with patterned pillows.

Collect different sizes and shapes, textures, and designs to completely change things up—and to make the couch so much cozier!

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5. BRING IN PLANTS Snow may be falling, but you can still count on a burst of freshness (and extra O2) from houseplants to lift your mood. Try a fiddle-leaf fig tree or a black-thumb-proof pothos plant.

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6. ADD FAVORITE ART Floating frames let artwork or photos steal the show— and our DIY version, which pairs inexpensive wooden canvas stretchers with acrylic, allows you to make a custom frame in minutes.

BUY IT!

7. UPDATE OLD FURNITURE You don’t need to replace your furniture to make it feel refreshed—just add new or painted knobs or legs. Rose Gold and Floral Ceramic Knobs,$8 for a set of two; worldmarket.com

1. Notch the stretcher pieces together—they’ll fit together snugly without glue. Tap the corners until perfectly square.

2. Apply watered-down paint, if desired.

3. Position the Plexiglas over the back of the frame, and mark the holes for the tacks.

Add painter’s tape over the corners to prevent splitting. Drill.

4. Tap in the copper tacks with a hammer.

Add a sawtooth picture hanger to the back of the top.

5. Using clear glue dots, position the artwork in the center. Hang time!

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Graphic Aztec Pattern Rug, $128; shadesoflight.com Copper Kapona Tray Table, $128. Bunglo Accra Pillow, $106; anthropologie.com Coral Springs Armchair, $164 each; wayfair.com Lavar Coffee Table, $294. Marlton End Table, $70.

Windham White Console Table, $127; target.com Oversize Metal Copper Curtain Rod, starting at $79; westelm.com

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For young and old alike, there’s enough fun to be found in South Dakota. That’s especially true at these family-friendly attractions, where you’re invited to relax, let your hair down, and release your inner child.

CUSTER STATE PARK // MOUNT RUSHMORE NATIONAL MEMORIAL

IL When you’re standing next to ancient reptiles, you can’t help but feel young. Parents and kids alike enjoy the sites and sounds of this iconic destination. Get up close with venomous snakes and prehistoric crocodiles, explore a prairie dog town, or compete against a chicken in a game of tic-tac-toe (seriously).

If you’ve ever dreamt of running away and living the life of a pioneer, this is the place to do it. With 71,000 acres of pristine forest as your playground, you’ll feel like a kid as you roam with the buffalo, spend whole afternoons fishing, and go adventuring in search of caves, streams, and wildlife.

LL This is the perfect place to be a kid again. Show everyone how brave you are by riding the jackalope. Leave your diet at the doorway and indulge in homemade donuts, ice cream and burgers. Before you call it a day, show off your skills at the shooting gallery and watch as your kids look on with admiration in their eyes.

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The fun starts in Main Street Square.

After splashing around in the spray fountain and dancing to the sounds of live music, you’re free to explore the rest of downtown Rapid City. Browse vinyl records, catch a movie at the historic Elks Theatre, or get the kids and take silly pictures next to statues of America’s past presidents.

Want to feel forever young? The Great Faces and Great Places of South Dakota are waiting to welcome you. Get inspired with a free South Dakota Vacation Guide.

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explore

IDEAS FOR GETAWAYS BIG AND SMALL

We visited two iFLY Indoor Skydiving Centers—one in Austin and one in Yonkers, NY. There are 30 locations nationwide (find one near you at iflyworld.com).

Jason, 11, soared at iFLY Westchester, in Yonkers, NY.

we tried it

THE HEIGHT OF FUN Indoor skydiving centers have been popping up nationwide—so of course we had to give one a whirl!

BY MARY GILES PHOTOGR APHY BY SABRINA HEL AS

HOW IT WORKS With an instructor at your side, adults and kids as young as 3 (yes, 3!) can step into a vertical wind tunnel and experience the thrill of free fall by balancing on a 70 to 150 mph stream of air.

WHAT TO EXPECT When you arrive, you’ll get your equipment: wind suit, goggles, earplugs, and

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helmet. Then it’s time for basic training. You’ll watch a short video, and your instructor will teach you the four hand signals he’ll use once you’re inside the wind tunnel (it’s very loud, so signs are the only way to communicate). Two fingers straight up means “straighten your legs”; two bent fingers means “bend your knees.”

These leg positions will help

you move forward or back.

You’ll even practice on a mat to make sure you’ve got the movements and signs down.

WHEN IT’S GO TIME You’ll suit up in all your gear, and then you and the instructor will lean into the tunnel’s doorway belly-first.

The fans will rev, your legs will lift, and you’ll be flying!

Each flight lasts one to three

minutes. That may seem short, but it actually feels much longer. The wind pressure engages every muscle in your body, so it’s hard to go much longer.

HOW MUCH IT COSTS About $90 per person for two flights. While the adventure is pricey (keep an eye out for promo deals), these thrills will definitely last!

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#WANDER Next time you’re dreaming about jetting off on a family adventure, think closer to home! North America has so many incredible destinations that will live up to your globe-trotting fantasies. These five spots are worth the trip.

BY CHRISTINA VERCELLETTO

# We all want to show our kids the world. Tapas in Madrid. An African safari. The Australian Outback. We dream not only of those trips, but of seeing the joy and excitement in our kids’ eyes as they experience a far-off land for the first time. And for those of us who are very lucky, we’ll be able to save up and go on one of these once-in-a-lifetime adventures with our families.

But for the years when you need to stay closer to home, we have good news: North America can make you feel like you’re in Europe, Africa, South America, or even Australia. “Why fret?” says Colleen Kelly, host and executive producer of the national PBS series Family Travel with Colleen Kelly. “There are so many awesome and historic places right around here.

Incredible scenery, fascinating landmarks, cultural diversity, and fantastic foods...we really do have it all here in North America.” Got a trip on your bucket list? Find a swap—each a favorite of a family-travel guru—that’s just as amazing.

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LUST

FANTASY

AMAZING PLACES

REALITY

look like they sprang from a Dr. Seuss book, abound, alongside roadrunners, jackrabbits, and quails. Plus, “direct flights into Los Cabos make this an easier and less expensive alternative to the Galápagos,” says Marcelle.

Jacques Cousteau, the late French explorer, dubbed this area’s Sea of Cortez the “world’s aquarium” because of the variety and abundance of marine life, according to Kristi Marcelle, family vacation consultant at Ciao Bambino!

Los Cabos is a lively area of upscale resorts sitting at the tip of a peninsula between the Pacific and the Sea of Cortez. Boojum, odd-shaped trees that

Must-Do Fun Snorkeling is a top family activity. You’ll spot huge schools of colorful fish, plus whale sharks, stingrays, and Christmas tree worms (which look like brightly colored fir trees). “These encounters are magical, and it’s fun to hear the kids chatter excitedly about what they saw in the water,” recalls Marcelle. Book a threehour tour from the Cabo San Lucas Marina, most of which will also stop at the famous Cabo Arch (pictured here).

La Princesa Sailing Catamarans (princesa charters.com) is geared to first-timers, anchoring in calm waters. Horseback

Galápagos Islands, Ecuador

Los Cabos, Mexico

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riding along the Pacific side of the peninsula takes you past towering and blooming saguaros cacti on your way to the beach, where you may glimpse a whale breaching, especially during the migrating season, December through March. Rancho Carisuva (ranchocarisuva .com) offers horseback tours for ages 6 and older. A camel safari that has you taking in both desert and beach is another only-here experience; Cabo Adventures (cabo-adventures.com) runs them for ages 5 and up. (Keep an eye out for the huge Crested Caracara, aka the Mexican eagle.)

Where to Drop Your Bags The Westin Los Cabos Resort Villas & Spa (westinloscabos.com), with its kids’ club, private beach, and three pools, is a great place to stay. Rates start at $246 per night.

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Australia REALITY

Texas Hill Country “The Australian Outback makes me think of Texas—rugged, dry, with friendly, outdoorsy folks and fun accents!” says Kim Orlando, founder of TravelingMom.com.

And the south-central Texas Hill Country region is unique, even within the state. Though it’s famed for hillsides covered in bluebonnets, you can just as easily spot yucca and prickly pear cactus. Explore caverns belowground, and the massive granite dome, Enchanted Rock (pictured here), above. Austin, with its music-festival scene, is the heart of hill country, so you can get city excitement along with your outdoor adventure. And Texas, similar to equally outsize Australia, contains regions with surprisingly different feels. The food, drink, architecture, and dance performances of Texas Hill Country are distinct from the more iconic southern/

southwestern parts of the state.

Both Australians and Texans have an independent spirit, and take pride in the exceptional diversity of their communities. And in both places, the landscape is as varied as the people.

Must-Do Fun To many, Australia is synonymous with unique native animals and plants, such as wallabies and eucalyptus. Texas is actually much the same. The Frio Bat Cave in Concan (friobatflight .com) is home to the second-largest bat population on earth. Every evening at sunset from mid-March to September, 10 to 12 million (!) bats fly out of the cave overhead.

In case that’s not enough proof that everything’s bigger in Texas, take the Champion Big Tree Tour in Rio Frio (hillcountryadventures .com). These baldcypress trees are nearly 100 feet tall, with crowns that spread out over 110 feet.

After an evening and morning of looking up, splash down in an inner tube in the Frio River in Concan (tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/ garner) for a lazy-river ride that’s actually in a real river.

Where to Drop Your Bags Families can check into Chalk Bluff River Resort and Park (chalkbluffriverresort.com) in Uvalde for rustic lodging in an Instagram-worthy setting. The property sits right along the Neuces River, where you can kayak or fish. You’ll also make friends with Samson the Clydesdale, sheep, and miniature donkeys. No koalas...but the alpacas are pretty darn cute. Cabins run $99 to $169 per night, depending on dates.

PREVIOUS SPREAD: FRANCISCO ESTRADA/PHOTOMEXICO.COM. THIS PAGE: PATRICK CAVAN BROWN.

#2

FANTASY

Pedro Menéndez de Avilés, a Spanish admiral and explorer, founded St. Augustine in 1565. And it was, in fact, ruled by Spain for the next 200 years, which explains the striking Colonial Spanish architecture just about everywhere you go.

The combination of history, pretty beaches, and a low profile compared to other Florida destinations makes St. Augustine a hidden gem.

Must-Do Fun “The history and cultural influences were what surprised me most. I loved making it a teaching moment for my children,” notes Kelly. The best area to experience that old European feeling is the Historic District along St. George Street. The Mediterranean architecture, especially the balconies and terra-cotta roofs, and the old Spanish fort give the impression of being in Spain. Here, the Colonial Quarter (colonialquarter.com) offers History Adventure Tours that provide hands-on living-history lessons. You can also stop at Taberna Del Caballo for tapas and flatbread pizzas in an 18th-century setting.

Where to Drop Your Bags Keep the Spanish dream alive at Jaybird’s Inn (jaybirdsinn.com), influenced by the old Spanish design of downtown.

Rooms are around $100 per night.

AMAZING PLACES

FANTASY

Spain REALIT Y

St. Augustine, FL

#3 FANTASY

Prague, Czech Republic REALIT Y

Québec City FROM TOP: MICHELLE GIBSON; SUPERSTOCK.

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Does your child love fairy tales?

Then Québec City could well be her vacation happy ending. Québec City is the only fortified city in North America with walls that are still standing. “You never even have to go inside to understand how different the capital of Canada’s Québec province is,” says Kyle McCarthy, editor of Family Travel Forum. “Its 17th- and 18th-century architecture and St. Lawrence River views are just captivating.”

Must-Do Fun During a winter visit, the Carnaval de Québec is the hands-down highlight. Meet Bonhomme, the seven-foot snowman who is the celebration’s ambassador, in his ice palace. An international ice sculpture competition, dogsled and ice canoe races, and the classic wooden toboggan run, with its burlap bags to ride on, round out the excitement. A night parade ends the day with smiles.

#4

Where to Drop Your Bags The grandeur of the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac Hotel (fairmont.com) will wow you. (The rates match the splendid surroundings at roughly $450 per night.) There’s also the Hôtel Château Laurier Québec (hotelchateaulaurier.com), where rooms start at $121.

explore AMAZING PLACES

FANTASY

African Safari REALIT Y

#5

Yellowstone National Park “Our first national park is often considered America’s Serengeti. It’s a sweeping landscape that is home to bears, bison, and birds of prey,” says Lynn O’Rourke Hayes, family travel columnist for The Dallas Morning News. Incredible views, big sky, fresh air, and that no-fail kid pleaser—animals they rarely get to see in real life— make Yellowstone a forever memory on par with any exotic locale. With everything from fly-fishing to grizzlies to wolves, “visiting Yellowstone launched my children’s interest in the natural world,” O’Rourke Hayes says.

at the Midway Geyser Basin, the largest hot spring in the country, just a few miles away. Its rainbow colors, caused by microbes, look like they can’t possibly be natural—but they are. Speaking of colors, the Grand Canyon of Yellowstone is arguably the most memorable site in the park. See it from Artists Point, where you can snap a photo with the pink and yellow walls of the canyon as the backdrop.

Where to Drop Your Bags The area right around Yellowstone books well in advance during peak season. In Cody, WY, 50 miles from the east entrance, comfy digs are more affordable. At the K3 Guest Ranch Bed & Breakfast (k3guestranch.com), rooms sleep six and have beds in the form of a sheepherder’s wagon, a chuck wagon, and more. Rates range from $179 to $219 per night, depending on the style of room. A package that includes a two-night stay and an eight-hour tour of Yellowstone runs $430 per person.

Must-Do Fun A drive through Lamar or Hayden Valley can feel like a safari, as elk, bears, and bison drift by. During the spring and early summer, you may catch sight of a red dog. No, not Clifford. Bison babies are called (and look like) red dogs.

Everyone stops by Old Faithful, but don’t miss the Grand Prismatic Spring

ASK

COLLEEN K E L LY

PLANNING POINTERS Travel expert Colleen Kelly shares her top tips for making your dream trips a reality.

Be Realistic About Expenses. Make a

detailed list of all the expenses you’ll encounter. I mean every single one! Then do research to calculate the total costs.

Budget Beforehand.

Saving is key! You can do this the old-fashioned way by putting extra cash in a “dream trips” jar, but you can also get a bit more sophisticated with it by setting up a “Vacation Fund” on apps like Mint.

Adjust Your Dates.

WYOMING OFFICE OF TOURISM.

If you’re able to be flexible, you can save a lot of money.

Even if you need to stick with school-break dates, consider waiting to fly out until a Tuesday, which is one of the least expensive days to fly.

Get more ideas from Colleen at Familytravelck.com!

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READY, SET, GO

Walt Disney World, never one for subtle displays, turns up the “wow” even more when you have kids old enough to stay awake past dinner.

There are parades, dance parties, and Fourth of July–worthy fireworks every night. Plus, big kids will get to experience some of their favorite rides in a whole new light.

“In some ways, the parks after dark are better than the parks during the day,” says Jason Cochran, author of Frommer’s EasyGuide to Disney World, Universal and Orlando. “It’s cooler, many of the longest lines have died down, and there’s tons of extra entertainment piled on.” Added bonus: With ticket prices hovering around $100 a day, if you stick around for nighttime activities, you can stretch your budget. So choose a park from our list, and get ready to say so long to bedtime. (Hey, it’s a vacation after all.)

BY MELISSA KLURMAN

The nightly fireworks above Cinderella’s castle are the largest in Disney World.

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MAGIC KINGDOM After preschoolers get tucked in for the night, crowds tend to wind down at this classic park.

EAT

Start with dinner at the over-the-top Be Our Guest eatery. At night, it transforms from a counter-service to a sit-down restaurant, and it has dining rooms that look just like those in the Beast’s castle. (Make a reservation online up to six months in advance.) You’ll also want to save room for the park’s only-after-dark treat: Light Up Cotton Candy, available at stands throughout the Magic Kingdom. Sweet!

RIDE

Once everyone has digested the meal, don’t miss a ride through the Haunted Mansion: “Just standing in line for it after dusk makes it a whole new experience,” says Davina Chojnowski, a Massachusetts mom of two.

“It’s extra creepy, especially as you walk through the cemetery and hear the ghoulish howls as you enter the ride.” Or catch the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, where little princesses can get a jaw-dropping view of Cinderella’s castle all lit up!

WATCH

The new Happily Ever After show uses Technicolor animated images to transform Cinderella’s castle into a swirling journey through more than 25 classic Disney movies.

Set to a soaring score, the 18-minute show pits classic villains against beloved heroes and princesses. Scenes out of everything from Aladdin to Zootopia melt, float, and twirl around the castle. At the climax, Maleficent engulfs the castle in green flames and Toy Story characters re-create it entirely out of toys. This leads into the park’s wellknown but must-see Once Upon a Time extravaganza. The largest pyrotechnic show at a place that prides itself on over-the-top productions fills the sky with multicolored fireworks set to popular Disney songs. Then you can finish the night with the Electrical Water Pageant, a parade of light-festooned boats that float through the Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake. (Check the park’s daily schedule online for exact times.)

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Pandora’s The Na’vi River Journey is dark but not too scary.

ANIMAL KINGDOM Until recently, Animal Kingdom shut its doors as soon as the dinner bell rang, making it a big payout for a single-day ticket that basically expired at 6 P.M. But with the spring 2017 unveiling of Pandora, the World of Avatar, and new extended safari hours, AK is now the place to be at night.

EAT

Pandora’s counter-service Satu’li Canteen offers space-age food such as steamed “pods” (bao buns stuffed with cheeseburger meat or vegetable curry) and cool views of the glowing, floating mountains from the outdoor patio seating. Parents also won’t want to miss the drinks that glow in the dark (from a magical Unadelta Seed) at the Pongu Pongu stand.

RESORT FUN Plan to get an evening bite at one of Disney’s deluxe resorts and you’ll have access to after-dark entertainment—no park tickets or additional fees required. A few of our favorites:

RIDE

ANIMAL KINGDOM LODGE

With the sun down, the Pandora section of the park completely transforms; bioluminescence makes the ground glow with every footstep, trees light up as you touch their trunks, and the kids shine too, with the help of black lights if they’re dressed in white or pale colors.

Both of the area’s new rides run at night: The Na’vi River Journey is a boat ride filled with six-footed animals, accompanied by melodious tunes from the Shaman of Songs; for bigger thrills, the Avatar Flight of Passage flies you over the moon on the back of a mythical Banshee.

All ages will also enjoy an evening Kilimanjaro Safari. Animal-spotting takes on added drama as you ride through the savanna at night, when you can witness the nocturnal habits of the reserve’s many animals, including wild dogs, lions, and hyenas.

And big kids will want to charge down the thrilling Expedition Everest coaster with a dark sky up above.

Visit the African-themed resort for stories around the fire, live drumming performances, and viewing wild animals on the savanna.

FORT WILDERNESS RESORT & CAMPGROUND A night of fun in the cool woods includes a campfire singalong with Chip ’n’ Dale, make-your-own s’mores (bring your own ingredients or buy a kit there), and a Disney movie under the stars.

WATCH

Animal Kingdom starts rolling out special entertainment as soon as 5 P.M. hits, like the Harambe Wildlife Parti, a festival of street performers. Then head over toward the park entrance to see the Tree of Life Awakenings, where the 145-foot baobob-tree replica becomes a wildlife theater as projected animals seem to emerge from the twisted trunk and branches and leap out into the sky.

In the Rivers of Light show, larger-than-life floating origami animals, elegant junk boats, and mist-spraying lotus flowers combine in a spectacle that feels like a Broadway show. Watch as images grow and glow from the mist (a trick of high-tech lasers you won’t see anywhere else). Keep an eye on the Asian puppetry and costumed actors on the shores too.

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The icon of the park sits quietly during the day but wakes after dark with projected images.

POLYNESIAN VILLAGE RESORT The sandy beach is the perfect setting for watching the Electrical Water Pageant and the Magic Kingdom fireworks.

Plus, for a special sipping treat, you can buy a cult favorite, the pineapple Dole Whip, from a take-out window.

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Hoping can’t help a kid struggling with drugs.

But together, we can.

We partner with parents and families to get help for kids whose drug or alcohol use threatens their lives with addiction.

We provide the science-based information parents need to understand substance use and programs to help parents effectively engage with their teens and young adults.

Our counselors will listen to parents and provide one-on-one guidance for families struggling with their son or daughter’s use. And we offer support from a network of families that have successfully faced this disease.

We’re here to help. Our services are free.

Let’s work together.

Call our toll-free helpline, 1-855-DRUGFREE. Or visit us at drugfree.org.

© Partnership for Drug-Free Kids, Inc. Partnership is a nonprofit, 501(c)(3) charitable organization.

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READY, SET, GO

HOLLYWOOD STUDIOS This movie-themed park is currently a bit sleepy during the day as it gets ready to unveil two new areas in the next two years: Toy Story Land with kids’ rides later this year, and galactic-themed Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in 2019. But there’s been a surge in nighttime experiences with lasers and fireworks—and without the spillover daytime crowds, you can usually score a good viewing point.

EAT

Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant, which has booths shaped like classic cars, really gives you a ’50s drive-in-movie feel when you go at night. And don’t miss its glowing drinks, such as the Buzz Lightyear Punch for kids.

RIDE

Above: Elsa and Anna take center stage at Fantasmic!

Below: Grauman’s Chinese Theatre is taken over by Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular.

For kids who love a good scare, we dare them to take the plunge into the darkness on an evening trip to The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. “Winding your way through the grounds of the Hollywood Tower Hotel at night is enough to make your hair stand on end!

The ride is always terrifying but takes on another dimension—pun intended—at night,” says Undercover Tourist’s Ian Ford.

WATCH

From a galaxy far, far away comes Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular. The show, which is projected onto the outside of Grauman’s Chinese Theatre and other buildings, combines special effects, lasers, and video to take you to the twin suns of Tatooine, a field of battle droids, the trench of the Death Star, and more. Or head to the Hollywood Hills Amphitheater to see Fantasmic!—the live-action show combines water, lights, and lasers as Sorcerer’s Apprentice Mickey Mouse tries to control his magic, all while battling evil villains. (Spoiler alert: He wins. The reward? More fireworks!)

DISNEY SPRINGS At Disney Springs (formerly Downtown Disney), the nighttime scene offers a plethora of food and entertainment fun for families, not to mention free admission. There’s a ton of live music, such as at the Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant, where kids can take to the stage to learn Irish step dancing with a live band. At Exposition Park, families can chow down on affordable bites from colorful food trucks, watch street performers, and listen to DJs spin familiar tunes. And upscale bowling fun at Splitsville attracts active families who fill up on sliders, pizza, and nachos while trying to throw a strike.

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EPCOT We’ll admit it, a lot of Epcot at night is really for parents: The glittering Eiffel Tower in the France Pavilion and cocktails under the stars as you walk around the World Showcase add some grown-up romance to a family vacation. But kids will also love nibbling their way around 11 countries, stopping for gelato in Italy, watching performers in China, and following the twinkling pathways in Future World to reach the illuminated dancing fountain.

EAT

The glass-enclosed Chefs de France brasserie has Eiffel Tower views and is great for evening people-watching while you slurp up gooey French onion soup.

RIDE

Shooting across Test Track in the dark makes it feel even faster, and entering the shimmering Spaceship Earth at night to ride into the interior stars is an added thrill.

WATCH

In the courtyard at the China Pavilion, the circus-like troupe of Jeweled Dragon Acrobats tumble and fly through the air in hourly performances from 4:30 to 8:30.

But the real highlight of an evening at Epcot is IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth, a combination of soaring music, balls of fire, heart-tugging videos, and fireworks, all centered around a revolving globe on the lagoon in the World Showcase. “Since it’s always held at 9 P.M., and Epcot closes right after,” says Frommer’s author Cochran, “it’s an easy one to plan in advance with your kids.”

Meander around Epcot’s World Showcase before enjoying the nightly fireworks show.

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After an unsolved case from Batman’s past comes back to haunt him, Batman recruits Mystery Inc. to help crack the case. facebook.com/scoobydoo

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That’s one way to get a beard trim!

LUCKY CHARMERS

Everyone can be Irish for a day with these cute cookies!

BY KIMBERLY STONEY PHOTOGR APHY BY MICHAEL PIAZZA

These treats are as good as gold! Use food coloring to tint vanilla frosting orange. Spread a thin layer of the orange frosting along the edges of a Milano cookie to make the beard. Cover with orange sprinkles. To make each hat, cut off the bottom of a green gumdrop (this will allow it to stick to the hat’s “brim”), then cut the gumdrop in half vertically and stick it onto a green fruit slice.

Use frosting to attach the hat to the top of the cookie. Attach mini candy eyes with frosting and a chocolate sprinkle for the smile. Enjoy!

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Eggland’s Best is the egg good enough for your family.

It’s natural to want to give your family the best. So why give them eggs that are ordinary?

Truth is, Eggland’s Best eggs are superior. They have more of the delicious, farm-fresh taste you and your family love—any way you cook them. Plus, 6 times more vitamin D, 10 times more vitamin E, and 25% less saturated fat than ordinary eggs.

So why settle for just any eggs when you can give them the best? Eggland’s Best.

Better eggs.®

All-New Show Starting Monday, February 19th on PBS KIDS Also on of Victoria Kann; the texts of the

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