Seattle’s Child “The Dive Into Summer Fun Issue” July/August 2025

SUMMER dive into fun!

Seattle’sChild

July/August 2025 // Issue

“Seattle is my town. I know this city inside and out… or so I thought until I had kids.”

Seattle’s Child is your guide to getting to know your city all over again. Finding things to do, places to eat, and how to get around — it’s a whole new ballgame with kids in tow. We’re interested in how parents make homes in a space-challenged urban environment, how families create community, and what parents are really talking about. Seattle’s Child reflects real Washington families and their broad range of parenting experiences.

Don’t

»What Parents Are Talking About

critical medical and public health research.

residents. The following is an excerpt from that dialogue.

It’s been a whirlwind six months since Washington State Attorney General Nick Brown entered office.

Since January, Brown has roared like a general into battle against the “lawlessness” of President Donald Trump and his administration. Brown has filed or joined 20 lawsuits against the administration, including

Trump’s:

• Ban of birthright citizenship.

• Cuts to federal funding for medical institutions that provide gender-affirming care to transgender youth.

• Intent to dismantle the U.S. Department of Education.

• Cancellation of federal grants that would disrupt

The goal in all this legal activity, Brown has said, is the same: to force the president and his administration to “follow the damn law.”

“No state is immune from these harms, and it’s my responsibility to fight,” Brown said.

We recently had the opportunity to ask Attorney General Brown a few questions about his work on behalf of the state’s children, families, and other

Seattle’s Child: How do you frame the big-picture concerns behind the lawsuits you’ve filed on behalf of Washingtonians?

Attorney General Nick Brown: With every case, our office looks at three criteria: Is the action by the government unconstitutional or illegal? Are Washington

«What Parents Are Talking About

and Washingtonians harmed? Is the state the right party to get involved?

What’s true in every statement Trump makes is that he attacks everyone who doesn’t look like him or think like him, while stealing from anti-poverty programs, from health services, and from thousands of public servants who just want to put in honest work where they’re needed.

Trump and his talking heads talk about federal programs like they don’t serve real people. They talk about the people who deliver these services like they’re drones. They diminish life-saving health programs and economic supports as “freebies.” It seems the only people they think the government should support — the only people who deserve economic opportunity — are the ultra-wealthy.

Seattle’s Child: You’re a public servant and a dad. How do these legal battles resonate with you personally?

AG Brown: I never imagined being in the position of having to constantly defend Americans from their own president. But that

is the sad reality of this current moment.

Seattle’s Child: What’s at stake when it comes to cuts to public education?

AG Brown: Knowledge is power, and cuts to learning, or libraries and museums, are intended to take invaluable learning opportunities from students. These cuts deprive millions of people from programs that give them a path to supporting themselves and sharing in the country’s economic growth.

[Trump’s] essentially dismantling the Department of Education, with a curious focus on gutting programs for students with special needs and disabilities. He’s eviscerating civil rights programs that protect students from discrimination and sexual assault. He’s making it harder to access financial aid. It’s crucial we stop this assault as soon as possible.

Seattle’s Child: Which families are the most impacted by Trump’s bans and cuts?

AG Brown: These lawless actions harm everyone, but it’s fair to say the consequences of this administration’s actions will fall hardest on Black people and other people of color, immigrants, women, those living in poverty, those with disabilities, and those whose gender identities or sexual orientation are caught up in the conservative culture war. I encourage people to visit 3atg.wa.gov

to find our complaints.

Seattle’s Child: Looking ahead, what lawsuit outcomes would you consider victories?

AG Brown: Victory in court is just one part of the battle. Right now, there are services people use every day that are at threat to just disappear overnight — like funding for education, libraries, small businesses, and of course health. If we do our jobs well enough, people may not realize there’s been huge victories preserving some things that maybe never went away because we acted before the administration could dismantle certain programs.

We need to win back enough ground where we’re not in this defensive posture against the forces of lawlessness and we’re actually making proactive change that helps people.

Seattle’s Child: What can parents do to help you in the work of fighting back?

AG Brown: We all have a role in supporting each other in times of uncertainty. Let’s choose not to obey in advance. Let’s all help take care of each other. Let’s get to work in our communities. Let’s parse out the truth from misinformation. Let’s come together to fight for what’s right.

» Dad Next Door

A little encouragement from across the fence

by JEFF LEE, MD

The lonely monkey

I was talking to a friend the other day about his adult son. Looking back, he feels like he gave the boy everything he could possibly need: a comfortable home, a stable environment, a fantastic education. The son, however, sees it differently. He insists that the love was conditional, the attention critical, and the focus mostly on his flaws. Now his relationship with his parents is distant, bordering on estranged. My friend and his wife are bereft, and more than a little confused.

So many people look back on their average childhoods, where they were cared for and protected and given everything they needed, and still feel that they weren’t well-loved. Meanwhile, parents everywhere find that no matter how hard they try and how many sacrifices they make, they still can’t shake the feeling that they’re coming up short.

There’s an old saying about social animals in general and primates in particular: “A lone monkey is a dead monkey.” Our superpower as a species — the one that allowed us to conquer the planet without sharp claws, venomous fangs or fast legs — was our ability to think, communicate, and cooperate as a group. The survival of any individual depended on its inclusion in that group, where the sharing of resources, protection, and information made us far more formidable than such a slow, weak, hairless animal had any right to be.

But of course, this superpower came at a cost. We need a prolonged childhood for our brains and our complex social skills to develop. In those early years, we are especially vulnerable, not only because we lack the ability to defend and care for ourselves, but because we have nothing to contribute to the well-being of the group. From the perspective of species survival, children are just dead weight — except they’re also the future, and for that reason, they’re everything. Nature solves this problem by giving adults parental instincts. Our small, weak, profoundly helpless children trigger our deepest impulse to nourish and protect them. At the same time, our children are engineered to magnify those impulses by focusing relentlessly on gaining our attention and our love. The system works, more or less, in that most children sur-

vive to adulthood without being abandoned by the side of the road. That’s a win, right? Along the way, though, we acquire a few scars.

The thing about a child’s desire for attention and love is that it’s almost limitless. The more resources and protection they receive, the more likely they are to survive to adulthood and pass on their genes to the next generation. As far as their instincts are concerned, more is always better. This leaves kids with the constant fear that they’ll never get what they need, and parents with the gnawing feeling that they can never give enough. Essentially, nature has designed human children with an unfillable hole.

I don’t think we can ever make that hole go away. What we can do is recognize it for what it is, and be intentional about how we try to fill it. So often, we attempt to plug it with something that doesn’t fit there. We move obstacles out of their way, rather than letting them learn to do that for themselves. We try relentlessly to optimize their potential, focusing only on who they could (or “should”) be, rather than who they are. We buy them phones and video games hoping to distract them from what’s missing, but actually reinforcing it with every click. And all the while, the hole gets deeper.

We have to remember that the hole in our children, and in all of us, is the fear of being the lone monkey, and that the only thing that fills it is membership in the tribe. Most primates spend hours every day picking ticks and lice off of each other, not just for the between-meal snack, but because it reinforces social bonds. Since our mutual grooming opportunities are pretty limited, other than eating the Cheerios we find stuck to our babies’ clothes, we have to do the modern equivalent. We need to reinforce tribal membership with our words and actions: “You are one of us. We love and accept you exactly as you are. We will never leave you by the side of the road.”

A lone monkey is a dead monkey. But a monkey who knows they belong has a lot fewer ticks, and won’t need psychotherapy for nearly as long.

ABOUT OUR COLUMNIST

Jeff Lee just picks food off his own clothes now, in Seattle, WA.

»ToolBox

What every parent needs to have on hand

Is your child lonely?

What to look for and how to help

by DR. SUSANNA BLOCK

Loneliness affects all of us from time to time, but we’re seeing a big increase in feelings of loneliness and isolation in children (and in adults).

Social connections and strong relationships actually make us healthier, so let’s talk about what loneliness looks like and how we can help.

The epidemic of loneliness is having a big enough impact that the U.S. surgeon general recently made a statement about the importance of relationships and having a purpose. Feeling lonely and isolated increases chances of depression and anxiety among children and teens, and it can impact school success and overall health.

What’s the cure for a lonely heart? It’s not the quantity of social interaction and connection we have, but the quality that makes the difference in loneliness. Nurturing relationships, fulfilling friendships, and connections to people like teachers, relatives, and mentors all help children feel connected and less alone.

Kids and loneliness: the signs

First off, I encourage you to simply ask your child how they are feeling and how their friendships and social life are. They might share feelings of loneliness or mention they have no one to sit with at school. You can also check in with your child if you see changes in behavior or signs of isolation like:

• Spending a lot of time alone (and this isn’t their usual MO)

• Avoiding talking about their friends or spending less time with them

• Seeming quiet, withdrawn, or sad without a clear reason

• Spending a lot of time on social media but not interacting with friends

• Seeming clingy (in younger kids) or retreating (in older youth)

• Showing lots of attentionseeking behavior

What causes loneliness?

The same events or circumstances won’t make every child feel lonely. What provokes feelings of loneliness is very individual. Sometimes just not liking the same things as your peers or developing at a different rate than others can make kids feel lonely, while for some kids, those things feel just fine. Big life events or shifts in social environment are common reasons to feel lonely, for example:

• Life events such as divorce, an older sibling leaving home, or changing schools

• Ending a relationship or a fight with friends

• Being bullied or harassed

• Being single when your friends are paired up

• Feeling different from those around you, like you don’t fit in or that no one gets you Social media’s impact on kids and loneliness

Social media and technology do connect us in some ways but can take a deep toll on the quality of our personal interactions and on self-esteem. Research showed that participants who used social media for two or more hours a day had about double the chance of experiencing feelings of isolation. Time on social media can also come with online harassment and bullying, which can increase both isolation and loneliness.

To reduce the harm of social media and screen time,

consider having screen-free times, delaying the age your children join social media, and being mindful of how often you are on your own screens.

Kids and loneliness: How parents can help Putting time into your own relationship with your children models good, loneliness-busting behavior and builds your children’s own healthy relationship and friendship skills. You can also:

• Just spend time together, strengthening the love and connection that children need.

• Encourage a variety of relationships. Children and teens can find connection and support in lots of ways — from aunts and uncles, friends, coaches, and mentors.

• Set aside screen-free time to interact in person, without both your and their phones or screens.

• Get children involved in activities that widen their social connections, like sports, extracurriculars, and volunteering

• Talk about it. Ask your kids if they are feeling lonely and give them space to share what is going on.

When talking about how to end the epidemic of loneliness, U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek H. Murthy may have said it best: “We can choose, in short, to take the core values that make us strong — love, kindness, respect, service, and commitment to one another — and reflect them in the world we build for ourselves and our children.”

ABOUT OUR COLUMNIST

Dr. Susanna Block, MD, MPH, is a pediatrician with Kaiser Permanente in Seattle and lives with her family in Queen Anne. IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

This nearby city is QUITE THE FIND

BY JULIE HANSON

QUICK QUIZ: What community is at the northernmost tip of Lake Washington, has great access to the water and the woods and is friendly and artsy?

More clues: It is home to everything from 50 lanes of bowling to a former seminary (where you can spend the night) to a seaplane company that shares its name.

Answer: Kenmore, where there’s a lot more going on than you might have realized.

With a population just over 24,000, Kenmore is small enough to feel close knit but big enough to have plenty to do. It has a robust small business community and is less than a half-hour drive to Seattle or Bellevue. It also has easy access to public transit, lots of ways to enjoy Lake Washington and direct flights to the San Juan Islands.

What’s the best way to explore Kenmore?

Easy: “Walk around,” or ride a bike, suggests Nicole Suarez, Community and Business Engagement Coordinator for the City of Kenmore.

She noted that Kenmore, which incorporated as a city in 1998, has more than 20 miles of paths and trails, almost 45 miles of dedicated sidewalks, 8 miles of shoreline and a vibrant arts-and-events culture.

“Take in the parks, go to Town Square and hang out, grab an ice cream, coffee or bubble tea. Stop for lunch.” While wandering, you’re likely to encounter some of Kenmore’s plentiful public art and perhaps a community event. The Kenmore Farmers Market takes place from 3 to 7 p.m. Wednesdays in June, July and August.

“Kenmore has really great community events,” Suarez said, mentioning the annual summer art

show, in addition to rotating exhibits at City Hall, summer movies in the Town Square, an annual Kenmore Oktoberfest (Sept. 13-21) and more.

In addition to the downtown core, the Burke-Gilman Trail goes through Kenmore and right past Brew Row, a growing strip of brewpubs and a distillery. In theory, one could set out from Ballard, ride through the University District and through Kenmore, then even catch the Sammamish River Trail to Woodinville and Redmond. The flaw in that plan: Not enough time in Kenmore.

Because when in Kenmore, you’ll also want to spend some time on (or near) the water. The town embraces its proximity to Lake Washington, the Sammamish River and Swamp Creek.

At lakefront Log Boom Park, home to the city’s annual July 4 festivities, a vendor rents paddleboards, kayaks, canoes and water bikes. Other parks also offer boat launches, picnic sites, hiking and more.

Speaking of hiking, another Kenmore gem is Saint Edward State Park. Also located on the lake, it has a big playground and miles of trails and features a former seminary that has been converted to the luxurious Lodge at Saint Edward Park. A short drive from the heart of town, it also hosts events including summer concerts.

“It is a lovely amenity that really makes Kenmore, Kenmore,” Suarez said of Saint Edward.

What else makes Kenmore, Kenmore?

• The Hangar Building, a community event space that is the town’s “downtown living room” which hosts a coffee shop and plenty of tables and space for meetups, gatherings, or working during the week.

• The walkable, bikeable community

• The overall family-friendly vibe with clean, safe, walkable neighborhoods. Kenmore is in the Northshore School District.

• Its acknowledgment and embrace of Indigenous culture. A story pole in Kenmore Town Square tells of the Duwamish people who originally settled the area, as does ƛaxʷadis (Tl’ awh-ah-dees) Park, given its name in 2021 to honor a Lushootseed village that once sat in or near present-day downtown Kenmore.

• Being the “seaplane capital of the world.” It’s a hub for Kenmore Air, whose planes take off and land daily. (Some sightseeing flights are available in addition to scheduled trips to locations in the San Juan Islands and British Columbia.)

• Kenmore Lanes which, with 50 lanes, is said to be the largest bowling center North of Reno, Nevada, and west of the Mississippi River.

SPONSORED BY

dive into

SUMMER

Don'T miss ouT on more summer fun

Wondering where the region’s best family beaches are? Which hiking trails are really kid-friendly? Which summer festivals are happening where and when? Don’t miss our most popular summertime articles online at >SeaTTleSchild.com/Summer

a SpoTTed eagle ray the waterfront • summer reading spray parks • wade pools • seafair outdoor theater • art walks drive-in movies • berry picking summer tunes • inclusive playgrounds 60+ day summer calendar

The 25−fooT−Tall jellyfiSh climbing Tower and Slide aT waTerfronT park

aboard

Glow up alert! Seattle’s 1.3-mile Waterfront got an end-to-end transformation just in time for summer — it’s a whole new experience, from the aquarium expansion to the fully renovated Colman to the cool new playground

We’ve even made it easy for you to find them. Just scan the QR code. A two-day fun-filled voyage

Parents of the newly potty-trained will especially appreciate the new $2 million restroom on the Park Promenade, with a full-time concierge

GRYGIEL

and pretty bouquets at the sinks.

The last phases of the overhaul, which began in 2019, are expected to wrap up by summer’s end, but already the Waterfront feels like a cleaner, safer, friendlier experience for families. It’s hopping with summer concerts at Pier 62, public chess, and entertaining buskers. Bonus: the area is completely flat, so bring the stroller to stash water bottles and extra layers.

Whether you’re new to Seattle or you’re a lifelong local, here’s a sample itinerary to re-introduce

your family to the upgraded Waterfront while the kids are out of school.

DAY ONE morning

The Seattle Aquarium opens at 9:30 a.m., and you’ll want to get there early because it gets mobbed as the day goes on. Start in the new Ocean Pavilion visit the massive reef ecosystem. The original building houses kid-centric features like touch tanks, a toddler play area and nursing pod, not to mention harbor seals and giant Pacific octopuses.

Just outside the aquarium’s front doors, you’ll find a 25-foottall jellyfish climbing tower and slide, part of the new ma rine-themed playground at terfront Park (Pier 58). To check when it will be completed, visit 3waterfrontparkseattle.org.

afternoon

When tummies rumble, head to the rooftop of the

Ocean Pavilion — yes, you can walk on the roof! — for an impossibly scenic shortcut to Pike Place Market, where you can grab market-fresh picnic fare. There’s tons of seating, gorgeous panoramas, even a small playground. After refueling, go for a spin on the new Waterfront bike path. You can pack your own (remember buses carry bikes) or use

app-based rentals. Make a pit stop at one of the Mexican fruit stands under rainbow umbrellas along Alaskan Way.

Two uniquely local businesses are also worth checking out: Ye Olde Curiosity Shop, home of the famous shrunken heads, and the Seattle Waterfront Marketplace, an artist collective featuring Seattle’s most prolific muralist, Ryan ‘Henry’ Ward.

If your family includes older kids and video game enthusiasts, end your day at the Tomb Raider Experience. Help Lara Croft solve puzzles in a temple inside a Chilean volcano, conveniently a block off the Waterfront. Check the article “Make your great escape at the Tomb Raider Experience” online at 3Seattleschild.com.

DAY TWO morning

Pop into the Brim Coffee Shop in the lobby of the elegant Edgewater Hotel for pastries and a cup of joe to go. Take a minute to ooh and ahh over the pristine views of Puget Sound.

Inspired by the waves as you sipped? Every Waterfront itinerary should include getting out on the water. There’s an option for every attention span, interest, and budget, from a Clipper whale watch to a narrated Argosy Cruise to a Salish Sea Tour that highlights Native culture. How about a yacht ride with Sailing Seattle?

The least expensive boat options are the King County water taxi to West Seattle or the Washington State ferry to Bainbridge Island. Both are no-frills commuter vessels where kids ride free, and both have lovely

walkable destinations on the other end (Alki and Winslow, respectively). Keep your eyes peeled for orcas along the way!

Back on the Seattle Waterfront, check out the new Pioneer Square Habitat Beach adjacent to the ferry terminal. A Molly Moon’s Homemade Ice Cream just opened at the historic Washington Boat Landing Pergola.

afternoon

Gather around the firepits at Ivar’s Fish Bar for clam chowder in a bread bowl or classic fish and chips. Next, head over to Miner’s Landing at Pier 57. It’s Vegas for kids: there’s a carousel, a regular arcade and an old-timey arcade with shoot-’em-up games. Outside, the Great Wheel is Seattle’s ride du jour — an icon as popular as the Space Needle. And don’t pass up Wings Over Washington, a scenic 4-D ride through the state. It sounds like a cheesy tourist trap, but this attraction was hands-down my kids’ favorite.

evening

Three words: Crab Pot seafeast. It’s a family-style meal where the server dumps everything on the table, everyone gets a bib and a wooden mallet and digs in. There’s a minimum of two orders per table; that’s enough to easily feed two adults and two kids.

The nice thing about summer is that it’s light out well into the evening. Before you peel yourself away from the Waterfront, wander through the 9-acre Olympic Sculpture Park, just north of the Edgewater. It’s open daily, dawn to dusk, and it’s always free and always breathtaking.

The greaT wheel

LOCAL BOOKSELLERS RECOMMEND…..

Matilda Roald Dahl ages 6–10

Local experts offer their picks on great kid reads

by ELIZABETH HUNTER

When I was a kid we kicked off every summer the same way: with a trip to the bookstore.

My mother used to joke that I would walk down the aisles with one arm outstretched, scooping entire rows of books into a shopping basket poised beneath.

I did my most intense reading at the shore, devouring thrillers and mysteries in the shade of a rainbow beach umbrella. As I got older, my mother and I would swap books as soon as we finished them, lost in the story, feet in the sand.

The first time a book made me cry was a summer read called "Sunny-Side Up" by Patricia Reilly Giff. It’s a relatable story of a boy whose friend is moving away, and the last line is so devastatingly sad and beautiful I still tear up thinking about it.

That said, it was the fantasy worlds that swept me away. After speaking with a dozen book connoisseurs across the city, it sounds like I’m not alone.

FANTASY SERIES TOP THE LIST

Instead of a single novel, many summer reading recommendations came in the form of a series. Since Harry Potter didn’t burst onto the scene until I was at the end of middle school, my fantasy worlds were C.S. Lewis’ "Narnia" and Madeleine L’Engle’s "Time Quintet." The first of each series is a beloved classic, but the real joy was knowing there was more to learn of Meg Murry and Charles Wallace, more of the world of Narnia beyond "The Lion, the Witch, and the Wardrobe."

Fantasy series are popular recommendations for kids, and it’s not hard to see why. The joy of traveling with a familiar character through their trials, tribulations, and eventual successes can be like a friendship. Fantasy also provides an alternative lens for kids to un-

Nation Terry Pratchett ages 11–13

“I think all kids like to imagine they can force themselves to have magical powers.”

-Jason Robertson, Co-Owner, Ophelia’s Books, Fremont

Dragon Rider

Cornelia Funke ages 9–12

“It's a funny and fantastical adventure.”

-Ellis Breunig, co-manager and lead buyer at Page 2 Books, Burien

Summer reading Sink into SUMMER READING RECOMMENDATIONS

The Wildcat Behind Glass Alki Zei ages 10–12

“The main character is resilient, he actually considers things, and he thinks about people.”

-John Watkins, owner, Twice Sold Tales, Ballard

“It’s not a new book, but its story of family secrets during a time of political turmoil might feel familiar to today’s readers.”

-Haley Stocking and Tom Nissley, owner, Phinney Books, Phinney Ridge

LOCAL AUTHORS RECOMMEND…..

Crow Barbara Wright ages 8–12

“A thriving African-American community in Wilmington, North Carolina, becomes targeted by cruel and calculating local politicians. The subject matter is difficult, but the first-person narrative is deeply touching.”

-Sara Anderson, author of A Day at the Market, among others

Island of the Blue Dolphins

Scott O’Dell ages 8–12

“I read Island of the Blue Dolphins at least four times. The main character, Karana, became a hero to me. I still draw on her resilience today.”

-Sara Anderson, author of A Day at the Market, among others

derstand human behavior. I read "Many Waters" (third in the Time Quintet) when I was 11 years old, and I think the two Murry twins were my first crushes.

Fortunately for today’s children, the literature world is brimming with glorious stories of queens and kings and creatures and beasts in faraway lands, waiting for a hero to accompany them on their adventures.

RESILIENT CHARACTERS, RESILIENT KIDS

In addition to fantastic worlds and superpowered characters, another theme that emerged from this summer reading list is resilience. Whether the characters are

Aquicorn Cove

K. O’Neill ages 7–10

“A lightly fantastical story of learning your role as an environmental steward in our surprising and magical world.”

-Ellis Breunig, co-manager and lead buyer, Page 2 Books, Burien

Hatchet

Gary Paulson ages 9–2

The Babysitters Club

Ann M. Martin ages 7–11

“As a child, I loved (loved, loved!) The Babysitters Club. I spent most of my life chasing the high of being in a solid group of friends.”

-Sunshine Bacon, author most recently of Rabbit Rabbit

The protagonist, Brian, “learns to care for himself — physically, emotionally, and mentally. His resilience and transformation are remarkable.”

-Jewell Parker Rhodes, author most recently of Will’s Race for Home

forced to rebuild their lives after tragedy, persevere in isolation, or survive political or familial turmoil, their resilience and inventiveness inspires young readers.

It’s revealing that so many book lovers I talked to used the word “resilience” during recent interviews. After all, they’ve had a front-row seat to the challenges kids faced when schools closed abruptly four years ago. It may not be front-and-center of our lives anymore, but COVID’s effects linger.

Resiliency, then, becomes not only something to admire in fictional characters surviving on a deserted island, but something that young readers themselves

must strive for.

PARENTS’ SUMMER ASSIGNMENT

Whether fantasy, mystery, or realism, what I remember as a kid is reading. I remember a time when I could read as much as I wanted, whenever I wanted, sometimes all day long. I dearly hope our kids can find (and lose) entire days of reading, amid robotics camp and swim team and soccer practice and whatever else they are signed up for this summer.

In the meantime, parents, your summer assignment is to give your kids time to devour these books.

spray park at Beacon Mountain in Jefferson Park

dive in!

Sprays, wades and outdoor pools by

If there is one word (besides heat) that is synonymous with summer, it’s water.

As the temperatures in and around Seattle rise above 75 degrees, and sometimes over 100, nothing cools the body and makes for a more perfect summer day than sticking tiny toes into a wading pool, dashing through a spray park with friends, splashing it up in an outdoor pool, or getting out on a lake or Puget Sound in a boat or some other floating conveyance.

Lucky for you, local spray parks (11 in Seattle and numerous others in the region) will be open through September 1 this year, as are pools and boating opportunities. So keep a water fun go-bag — including towels, sunscreen, hats, snacks, water — at the ready and invite kids to dive in whenever the heat demands it or waterplay calls.

GO FOR A SPRAY DOWN

Most city-run spray parks in the region are open daily from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. unless there’s a chance of thunder and lightning. Still, double-check that a spray park is open before heading out.

WADE ON IN

Shallow, bordered, and usually within toddling distance of a playground, wading pools are an easy way to cool off and often more convenient than a beach trip with small children. They are generally

SPRAY & WADE

According to Seattle Parks and Recreation, the most popular wading pools (the “Big 4”) in the city are located at Green Lake Park, Lincoln Park, Van Asselt Community Center, and Volunteer Park. For the ultimate spraydown, Seattle Center’s International Fountain can’t be beat. Most park water amenities in Seattle are open 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. through Labor Day (Sept. 1).

Do you live north, south or east of Seattle? Check these out:

Hazel Miller Spray Park

600 Third Ave. S, Edmonds; Open 10 a.m.– 8 p.m.

open on clear days with a forecast of 70 degrees or higher. Conveniently, Seattle wading pools have a Facebook page and a Wading Pool Hotline (206684-7796) to verify hours and open/closed status the day of your visit. Keep in mind that not all pools are open on all days.

DIVE INTO OUTDOOR POOLS

You could go to an indoor pool this summer, but where’s the sun in that? The region has several outdoor pool options, including two saltwater pools for added buoyancy. They are not all the same, some have slides and other fun items, others are plain jane, but all will keep your kids cool!

BOARD A BOAT

Getting in the water is a big pull on a hot day, but getting out on the water is a whole lot of fun (and usually cooler than on dry land) as well. Unless you have your own boat, that means boat rentals, cruises, or tours. Puget Sound and the lakes within it offer many options, including paddleboard, kayak, canoe, pedal boat, and even “donut boat” rentals. 3seattleschild.com/get-out-on-aboat-in-seattle-and-on-the-eastside/ HIT THE

BEACH

Did you know that the Puget Sound region has approximately 575 public beaches? Seattle alone boasts at least 67, nine of which are staffed by lifeguards. Pack a picnic, grab the digging toys and head to a beach to swim, rock hunt, dig, and play. 3seattleschild.com/best-family-beachesaround-seattle/

Les Gove Park 910 Ninth St. SE, Auburn; Open 7 a.m.–9 p.m Crossroads Park 999 164th Ave. NE, Bellevue; Open 10 a.m.–8 p.m.

find a full guide To Spray parkS and wading poolS

OUTDOOR POOLS

Unless otherwise noted, outdoor pools are open daily through Sept. 1. Public swim schedules vary. Always call or check websites to confirm public swim hours.

Colman Pool 8603 Fauntleroy Way SW, Seattle; 206.684-7494

Lowery C. “Pop” Mounger Pool 2535 32nd Ave. W, Seattle; 206-684-4708

Peter Kirk Pool 340 Kirkland Ave., Kirkland; 425-587-3335

Yost Pool 9535 Bowdoin Way, Edmonds; 425-771-1346

Fircrest Swimming Pool 545 Contra Costa Ave., Fircrest; 253-564-8188

Stewart Heights Pool 5715 Reginald Gutierrez Lane, Tacoma; 253-404-3925

Kandle Pool 5302 N. 26th St., Tacoma; 253-404-3920

SEATTLE'S CHILD STAFF

photograph by JOSHUA HUSTON

From Navy planes to community fests, celebrate 76 years of fun

by JANET KIM

The sounds of hydroplanes and boats gathering on Lake Washington and the roar of the Blue Angels jets in the sky above will soon signal it’s Seafair season, Seattle’s iconic summer festival.

But this year — Seafair’s 76th — organizers promise a “bigger, better and bolder” festival than ever before.

“We like to say summer starts with Seafair,” says Emily Cantrell, Seafair’s president and CEO.

The most noticeable changes for regular attendees? Some beloved activities (including the Torchlight Parade, which has historically started on Fourth Avenue) will move to the newly renovated Waterfront Park.

Cantrell hopes the mix of tourists visiting Seattle in July and local parade lovers will converge in the park to light up the night on July 26. And that’s a change too: The Torchlight Parade is returning to its original nighttime slot — 7:30-11 p.m.

Cantrell says Seafair orga nizers have been looking for

Seafair Sail into SEAFAIR EVENTS

To purchase tickets to any of the following events, go to 3seafair.org

The TorchlighT parade reTurnS To iTS nighTTime SloT

ways to make Seafair a more family-friendly and accessible event. This year, Seafair staff will distribute earplugs for those who may be sensitive to the noise. They’re also exploring designated “sensory zones” for those who need a quieter space for exploring Seafair activities. Cantrell

what we can do to make these events for everyone who attends,” said Cantrell.

One more big change: The fireworks show above Lake Union will remain Seafair’s 4th of July big bang, but the music and other festivities leading up to the show will take place not only in but also in Lake , giving people more options for enjoying the event.

find The full liST of Seafair evenTS, including communiTy feSTivalS, paradeS and more

$40 for general seating, but FREE in the park.

Seafair Torchlight Run

SEATTLE WATERFRONT, JULY 26, 6 P.M. $30 to register.

Seafair Torchlight Parade

SEATTLE WATERFRONT, JULY 26, 7:30-11 P.M. FREE

Long-time Seafair attendees like Lauren Paige say they’re excited to see the

Jet Blast Bash

THE MUSEUM OF FLIGHT, AUGUST 2-3, 10 A.M.-4 P.M.

changes and participate in activities all summer long.

“I think a lot of people who are not aware of the [Seafair organization and foundation] and its history think that it’s just limited to Seafair weekend, but Seafair is the whole summer,” said Paige, a Seattle mom of two.

Paige posts family adventures on her public Instagram handle @ sauntermama. She’s planning to participate in this year’s Torchlight Parade, running the course with her 5-year old in the stroller. She’s been attending Seafair since she was a child and worked for

View the Blue Angels planes and pilots up close. Included in the admission price $29/ adult, $21/youth age 5-17, free under age 4.

GENESEE PARK, AUGUST 1-3, 8:30 A.M.-6 P.M.

Features live music, car show, food and beverage options, and various familyfriendly activities. On Friday, admission is FREE for everyone. Saturday and Sunday, general admission starts at $40/adult, $20/kid age 6–12.

Boeing Seafair Air Show

LAKE WASHINGTON, AUGUST 13, 8:30 A.M.-6 P.M. Features incredible displays by civilian pilots, vintage aircraft, and parachuters. Saturday and Sunday admission starts at $20. Friday night gate admission is FREE.

Apollo Mechanical Cup Hydroplane Races

LAKE WASHINGTON, AUGUST 1-3, 9 A.M.-6 P.M.

General admission $40/adult, $20/kid age 6–12.

Look up! It’s the Blue Angels! LAKE WASHINGTON, AUGUST 1-3

The Navy precision flying team will be visible in the skies over Lake Washington. Schedule TBA. FREE

Blue Angels Walk Down

AUGUST 1-3, 1-5 P.M.

View the Blue Angels taking off and landing from just 150 feet away. Cool, but it costs: $75 per ticket.

The blue angelS

the organization while in college. Paige says she’s eager to pass on her love of Seafair to her kids.

“I think it’s a great reflection of who Seattle is and it’s such a part of Seattle history. It’s been around so long, and I just want to keep it going and for people to get out there,” says Paige.

One thing that won’t change is Seafair’s partnership with communities. Seafair supports numerous neighborhood, city and other community festivals throughout Puget Sound — events like the Kent Cornucopia Days, Wallingford Parade, Seattle Chinatown Seafair Parade, Indian Days Powwow, and more.

“We are not trying to reinvent the wheel on anything that we do, we are trying to enhance every experience and look at things that we can do to make our events even bigger, better and bolder,” said Cantrell.

Two musts for Seafair:

Seafair Weekend Festival at Genesee Park: August 1-3 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. This is the biggie, where fans pack Genessee Park and the log boom to watch hydroplane races on Lake Washington and the Blue Angels performance overhead each afternoon. The event features live music, car show, food and beverage options, and various family-friendly activities. On Friday, admission is free for everyone. Saturday and Sunday, general admission $40 adults, $20 kids ages 6 to 12.

Seafair Torchlight Parade at Seattle Waterfront: July 26 from 7:30 to 11 p.m. Expect more than 100 entries, from dragon dancers to drill teams, marching bands, and prancing horses. FREE

It’s so much more than a gift!

Washington State Heirloom Birth Certificate

A portion of the proceeds from each birth certificate benefits the Children’s Trust Fund of Washington, administered by the Washington State Department of Children, Youth & Families Strengthening Families Program.

• This official birth certificate is personally signed by the Governor and State Registrar.

• Frameable keepsake.

• For each $45 purchase of an Heirloom Birth Certificate, $20 is tax deductible.

To find out more information on Children’s Trust and child abuse prevention in Washington State visit: www.dcyf.wa.gov/about/governmentcommunity/community-engagement or visit the Department of Health to order your own Heirloom Birth Certificate.

DCYF FS_0010 (09-19)

• Certificate is 8 1/2 x 11 and includes the name, date and place of birth, as well as the name and birthplace of the parent(s).

TheaTeR

by FIONA COHEN

Watching an outdoor summer theater performance is a fine way to introduce kids to the theater — it’s free (donations encouraged) and restless kids can get up and move around. Many of the plays are Shakespeare and while much of Shakespeare’s prose will go over the heads of young kids, they will grasp that it’s about playground drama they experience regularly — power, loyalty, plotting, battles. Performances are intimate; no walls separate actors from the audience crowding in close to catch the action. And the skill and imagination on display here are impressive. With very limited props, actors have to create worlds on the park lawn or minimal stage. They may need

Pull up a float for outdoor OUTDOOR THEATER

Seattle Outdoor Festival Volunteer Park, 1247 15th Ave. E, Seattle. The best showcase of outdoor theater in Seattle is the annual Seattle Outdoor Theater Festival in Volunteer Park on July 12–13. Multiple theaters perform in several locations in the park. Theaters include Red Eagle Soaring Native Youth Theatre, CSZ Seattle, Thistle Theatre, Greenstage, Penguin Productions, Emerald Theatre, Shakespeare Northwest, Dacha Theatre, The Seattle Sockeye, and Last Leaf Productions. The festival is FREE to attend.

GreenStage Theater/Backyard Bard

Multiple locations.

3greenstage.org/ shakespeare-in-the-park

Much Ado About Nothing: The fiery Beatrice and the stubborn Benedick are hilariously duped into falling for each other, while young lovers Hero and Claudio are torn apart by a villain’s cruel deception.

Richard III: The last installment of GreenStage’s productions of Shakespeare’s eight history plays, which began in 2017.

A Midsummer Night’s Dream: Deep in an enchanted forest, feuding fairy royalty meddle with lovesick mortals, causing hearts to tangle and affections to go

to switch between roles within a second, with the aid of a hat, a swagger, or a change of voice. And they often have to improvise, keeping the play going no matter what comes at them: be it rain, airplane noise overhead, stray frisbees, or excitable dogs. All great skills for kids to observe and learn.

OUTDOOR THEATER AT A PARK TIPS:

• Bring a blanket, bug spray, sunscreen, layers of clothing, water, some cash to put in the hat, and, if you like, a picnic.

• Don’t bring packaging or toys that make noise. (You never realize how much noise a bag of chips makes until you try to open one quietly!)

• Outdoor theater is designed for a human audience, so best not to bring a dog unless they are fine sitting still for at least an hour and won’t be tempted to inspect nearby picnics.

• Camp chairs are a good idea for some, but avoid blocking anyone’s view: the taller the chair, the farther back in the audience you need to sit.

hilariously astray.

The Taming of the Shrew: Sharp-tongued Kate wants nothing to do with marriage, but the bold and mischievous Petruchio is determined to win her in a match of wits and a hilarious war of words, wills, and mind games.

Island Shakespeare Festival

The Taming of the Shrew plays at 5476 Maxwelton Road, Langley (Vashon Island). 3islandshakespearefest.org

Burien Actors Theatre

The Guardsman by Ferenc Molar, adapted by Rachel Rene. This show presents a story about a popular actor who suspects his actress wife is getting restless, so he takes his most daring role and disguises himself as a dashing guardsman — to test his wife and win her love. Multiple locations.

3battheatre.org

Kitsap Forest Theater

Big Fish, a heartfelt and powerful Broadway musical about fathers, sons, and the stories that people use to define their identities. $23/ adult, $20/student and senior, $10/ kid 6-12. 3000 Seabeck Hwy. NW, Bremerton. 3foresttheater.com

ArTWalking: a great way to navigate the city

A Seattle art docent shows you how

by DAVID TURNER photograph by JOSHUA HUSTON

Searching out public art is a wonderful, worthwhile and free way to explore any city, especially in the warm summer months. And, with a few guiding questions, art walks with kids can be educational and insightful for them and their adults.

Case in point: The other day I left my docent shift at Seattle Art Museum in downtown Seattle to check out the public art overlooking the Seattle Aquarium’s new Ocean Pavilion. Here’s that walk: A SHORT, PACKED ART WALK

I saw wings, but what do your kids see in this piece? Do they see more than one thing?

ART AND FUNCTION INTERSECT

At the bottom of the stairs you will walk under a third metal sculpture that reminded me of the run-away houseplant in my grandma’s kitchen. Again, here is metal mimicking nature, a chance to discuss how artists reinterpret the world around them with the materials they choose.

Standing at the street corner, look right to see several colorful characters by Seattle muralist Ryan ‘Henry’ Ward. What’s the story behind each animal?

find all daTeS and locaTionS for TheSe ouTdoor playS

From the museum, walk down the stairs at Union and 1st Avenue. At Post Alley and Union Street, I suggest skipping the touristy Seattle Selfie Museum. But across the street is this route’s first art walk stop: Look for the metal fence growing atop a cement wall. It’s a good example of art made from the refuse of bigger building projects. I happened to see a row of flowers as lovely as fresh ones. Ask your kids what they see. What do they think this fence is for: is it meant to keep people out or invite them in? Why is there just a splash of color on these steely petals?

Continue along the walking bridge toward Waterfront’s The Great Seattle Wheel. Look left to see a second lace-like metalwork.

Crossing Alaskan Way, you will see a new work in progress — the Waterfront’s brand new playground. Look at it as a work of art: The tiny man-made island, the 25-foot-tall jellyfish-shaped climbing tower, the crab wobble boards, the “kelp forest.” It is a great example of functional art.

INVITE YOUR KIDS

TO RECORD THE ART THEY SEE

From there, climb the stairs to the viewpoint. Here, I discovered a magic moment — a youth filming a busker with their phone. It was one artist (the videographer) turning another artist (the busker) into a new work of art. What if we taught kids to use such devices to create rather than lose themselves to social media?

DON’T BE SHY

Be ready for surprises on any

5 ART WALKS

SODO TRACK

The SODO Track has transformed the transit corridor in Seattle’s SODO district into a wonderful 2-mile art walk or ride. As you move along this free and accessible urban art gallery, kids will be introduced to more than 60 artists from 20 countries in side-by-side murals. The SODO Track spans Fifth Avenue South between Royal Brougham Way and Spokane Street.

3seattleschild.com/mural-hunt-seattle

SEATTLE URBAN ART TOUR

Travel by foot and streetcar to examine tremendously varied street art, from graffiti, tags, and “sticker bombs” to elaborate spray paint, brush work, and stencil pieces.

3globalfamilytravels.com/ seatle-street-art-tour

BELLEVUE BOTANICAL GARDEN

Art walk through Bellevue Botanical Garden, where a meandering path leads to the stone “Friendship Circle,” a sculpture called “Night Blooming” offers a sparkly light effect when you crouch through the door to the interior and look up, and kids can search for sculptures of an owl, rabbit, frog, and a stone chair resembling a throne in the forest. Open daily from dawn to dusk at 12001 Main St., Bellevue.

DUVALL

Enjoy a small town art walk in Duvall. Look up, down, and all around as you walk along Duvall’s Main Street. You’ll find a variety of public artworks ranging from carved art panels attached to the lampposts and swimming salmon carved into a crosswalk to artful benches with local scenes, painted murals, and large sculpture installations.

KIRKLAND SCULPTURES

Whimsical is the word that describes many sculptures installed around downtown Kirkland. Start your walk at the library and loop around Marina Park and the shopping core to find several sculptures of animals, a carousel horse, children jumping for joy, and the city’s landmark cow and dog sculpture, often decorated to celebrate holidays, seasons, and sports teams.

art walk with kids, especially the chance to meet working artists. On this walk, I happened upon artist Rob D’Arc, the creator of puppets and marionettes that have been featured in many films and stage productions. Your kids can meet him too, either on YouTube as Professor Humbug or on Instagram @pikeplacepuppeteer. Every Monday and Thursday Rob goes up to the stalls and offers his pop-up puppet kits. He proves that kids can make a working puppet out of the simplest items.

DIALOGUE WITH YOUR KIDS

Any art walk, short or long, proves the point: Art can be found in almost any direction in Seattle. Some last questions for this short walk:

• If you made big art flowers for the public to see, what material would you want to use?

• If you wanted to make a dance out of the web on the bridge, what would it look like?

• What was the best thing we saw on the walk to the overlook? What makes you say that?

• If you wanted to make a puppet of any character what would it be?

The blue fox drive−in TheaTer in oak harbor

drive−in movieS Reel in some

Introduce them to an old-timey tradition

by JILLIAN O'CONNOR

The drive-in movie theater is a 1930s invention that a lot of us older parents and grandparents remember fondly. We piled into the family station wagon, packed tighter than sardines next to our siblings, cozy in our jammies and clutching favorite blankets or bears. We wrestled in the open hatch or piled onto the hood as our parents fiddled with the speaker boxes by the side of the car. The skitchy sound was just part of the adventure.

We didn’t always see the entire movie, falling asleep as we did facedown on our Milky Way candy bars, but catching a drive-in was always great summertime entertainment.

This summer, pass on the drive-in thrill to your young movie-goers. While they are all a bit of a trek from Seattle, traditional legacy drive-in theaters still exist in the surrounding Puget Sound region. And the audio has also been drastically improved since all drive-ins now use dedicated FM stations to provide the sound. IF YOU GO

Here are some tips to help make your dive into drive-ins a better experience for the whole family:

• Check what’s playing before packing up and heading out. Don’t make the mistake my friend’s parents made back in the day and bring your kindergartner to see “The Exorcist.”

• Shows begin at dusk. Plan to arrive ahead of time and bring coloring books or a deck of cards to help pass

the time.

• Not all drive-ins allow pets or outside food. Check with the theater if you want to bring a picnic or your dog.

• As the owners at Wheel-In Motor Movie Drive-In in Port Townsend warn: Be sure your car stereo is in working order and your car battery is in good shape, or bring a portable FM radio.

RODEO DRIVE−IN

Open since 1949. Three screens play three sets of double features at a time, but you do have to stick to one set only. Open through September, Friday through Sunday. Showtime at dusk. All prices are for a double feature, an old-school drive-in tradition. General admission: $12. Children 12 and under and seniors 55 and up: $7. Free for kids 4 and under.

Location: 7369 WA-3, Bremerton Tickets: Online at 3rodeodrivein.com

BLUE FOX DRIVE IN THEATER

An Oak Harbor family favorite since 1959. There’s an arcade on the premises, as well as a go-kart track. Movies are on a first-come, first-served basis, and the box office opens at 4 p.m. (along with go-karts, snack bar, and arcade). Open Friday through Sunday, 4 p.m. to 1 a.m. Prices are for a double feature. The first show starts at dusk. Adults and kids ages 11 and older, $6.50. Kids ages 5 to 10, $1.50. Children ages 4 and under are free.

Location: 1403 N Monroe Landing Road, Oak Harbor

Tickets: Day of show at the box office.

SKYLINE DRIVE IN THEATER

This drive-in is a bit of a drive since it’s

OUTDOOR MOVIES IN THE PARK

Looking for a fresh-air movie experience that’s a little closer in? You are in luck. The Greater Seattle area offers a number of family-friendly outdoor movies options at parks or pools. Pack your snacks, a blanket or low-back chairs, and make yourself comfortable. All local outdoor movies are free, with the exception of Movies at Marymoor Park and Dive-In Movies at Wild Waves. Pre-movie entertainment typically gets going at around 7 p.m,. but films don’t start until dusk — usually around 9:15 p.m. at the start of summer and 8:30 p.m. by the end of August.

SEATTLE

Mural Amphitheatre

Seattle Center, 305 Harrison St., Seattle

OUR KID PICK: Ratatouille (G), July 25 at 9 p.m.

Movie by the Tower –Maple Leaf 1020 NE 82nd St., Seattle

OUR KID PICK: The Wild Robots (2024), Aug. 9 at 7 p.m.

Movies at Seattle

Downtown Parks

Multiple locations.

OUR KID PICK:

E.T. – The Extra Terrestrial (1982) [PG], July 23 at 6:30 p.m. in Denny Park

EASTSIDE

BECU at Marymoor Park 6046 West Lake Sammamish Parkway NE, Redmond

OUR KID PICK: UP (PG), August 6 at 6:30 p.m.

Kirkland Outdoor Summer Movie Series

Juanita Beach Park, 9703 NE Juanita Beach Dr.

OUR KID PICK: July 12, Despicable Me 4 (PG) at 6 p.m. and Wonka (PG), at 8 p.m.

Dive-In Movies at Wild Waves

Find the schedule at 3wildwaves.com/events

Movies in the Park in Bellevue

Bellevue Downtown Park, 10201 NE 4th St.

OUR KID PICK: Monsters University [G], August 19 at dusk.

Covington Outdoor Movies

17649 SE 240th St., Covington

OUR KID PICK: Sonic 3 [PG], July 25 at 9 p.m.

NORTH OF SEATTLE

Marysville Movies in the Park

6915 Armar Road, Marysville

OUR KID PICK: Captain America: Brave New World [PG 13], July 11 at 9:10 p.m.

Movies at the Square

6728 NE 181st St., Kenmore

OUR KID PICK:

Inside Out 2, August 13 at 8 p.m.

Everett Sail-in Cinema 1200 Millwright Loop

OUR KID PICK: Cars [G], August 22 at 8:35 p.m.

find a full liST of Summer ouTdoor movieS

located in Shelton, but it must be worth the trek as it’s been open since 1964. Gates open at 7 p.m., show at dusk, rain or shine. Friday to Sunday. Adults and kids ages 12 and older, $8. Ages 2-11, $3. Kids 5 and under, free.

Location: 182 SE Brewer Road, Shelton

Tickets: Purchase online at 3skylinedrive-in.com or at the box office.

WHEEL IN MOTOR MOVIE DRIVE IN

Spend the day in Port Townsend, then head to this great drive-in, open since 1953. Open Friday to Sunday; box office opens at 7:30 p.m. General admission: $10 adults, $9 for seniors 65+ or kids ages 6-12. Kids ages 5 and under are free.

Location: 210 Theatre Road, Port Townsend

Tickets: Online at 3ptwheelinmotormovie.com or at the box office.

Sponsored Content

Simple ways to keep kids safe in the summer

BY JULIE HANSON

rin Summa loves to have a good time, and she knows kids love to have a good time. She is not the Fun Police.

But as a health promotion program manager with the Center for Childhood Safety at Mary Bridge Children’s, she knows the ways those fun times can turn tragic, often shockingly fast. It is her job – and her passion – to help people stay safe.

Unintentional injury is the leading cause of death for kids beginning at 1 month of age. And in the summer, there’s more daylight, less structure, perhaps less supervision – and all sorts of adventures to be had.

With some careful habits, knowledge and use of safety devices, your family can have a safe and fun summer.

“I want kids and families to go out and have fun and feel joy, and go home safely at the end of the day,” Summa says. Here are some of her tips for doing that in all seasons.

Window falls

Risk factors: “Kids are curious by nature and top-heavy by design, so they fall headfirst and they fall hard,” often resulting in serious injury, Summa says. A screen can provide a false sense of security: It will not prevent a fall. “Screens keep bugs out; they do not keep kids in.”

What to do: If a kid can get to a window (including by climbing on furniture), close it. What if it’s hot outside? Still, close it. Or, install window stop devices that are widely available, allowing a window to open only 4 inches. Also, teach your kids not to lean out of windows (but then supervise them anyway).

You might not have known: A child can fall from a window that’s open more than 4 inches.

Water safety

Risk factors: Drowning is the No. 1 cause of fatal injury in kids ages 1 to 4. It happens very quickly and surprisingly quietly. Swimming is also an activity where kids, particularly older kids, might tend to overestimate their ability or try to show off. A fun, “Hey, watch this!” moment can turn tragic.

What to do: Never allow a young child near the water unsupervised, Summa says, and this means “touch supervision,” i.e., immediate proximity. This does not mean sitting in a chair

nearby, chatting, checking email, etc. Also: Put your kids in swimming lessons. Have them learn early and relearn every year. Have them wear life jackets near open water and while in boats or on paddleboards and the like. Make sure life jackets are the right size and worn properly. You might not have known: Safety experts do not want you to use those little arm floaties sometimes known as “water wings.” Also: Life jackets are not for pools. This goes back to “false sense of security,” giving kids the (unintentional) sense that their body will always float in water.

Head protection

Risk factors: Bike falls can cause serious injuries, including head injuries.

What to do: Wear a helmet. Summa suggests starting the first time your toddler rides anything with wheels. Build the habit early. Some kids might be reluctant to wear a helmet because it’s “not cool” or perhaps not comfortable, but consider this from Summa: “Having a functioning brain will serve kids well in life, so they should protect that brain.”

The right fit: Use the “eyes, ears, mouth” guide: The helmet should fit snugly and straight, just a couple inches above the eyes. It should buckle under one ear, and when the wearer opens their mouth, they should get a little resistance from the chin strap. Also, try this: Shake your head like a wet dog. The helmet shouldn’t move. Summa particularly likes helmets that have a dial to get a precise fit.

You might not have known: Do not let your child wear a baseball cap under their bike helmet. If they fall forward, the hat brim will hit the ground first and could pop the helmet right off.

More to think about

Make sure you have the right car seats or boosters and that they’re installed and being used correctly. Know the law: wacarseats.com.

If you’re traveling with a baby, think about how they’ll sleep safely, which often means bringing along a portable crib.

All these safety practices you’re using and precautions you’re taking? Make sure that anyone else supervising your child also knows and uses them.

And a word on personal fireworks, July 4 or any time: “Please don’t,” says Summa.

More information and help Mary Bridge Children’s has a wealth of safety information on its website. (Go to marybridge.org and search for keyword “safety.”) And their experts will answer your questions via email at childsafety@multicare.org

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

PICK BERRIES

Below is a short list of popular U-pick spots. So grab your buckets and row down the berry rows this summer.

STRAWBERRY U PICK

Remlinger Farms

Row down the

berry rows

Strawberries, blueberries, raspberries and much more

CHERYL MURFIN / photograph by JOSHUA HUSTON

y family and I recently took a stroll around Seattle’s Seward Park. We were chatting, laughing, and listening to someone on their boat play music loud enough to wake the dead when my eyes landed on leaves I recognized, and I was taste-blasted back to childhood.

Salmonberries. Salmonberries in every direction. The park is full of them. I closed my eyes and saw my grandmother stirring salmonberry sauce for summertime Sunday pancakes. Much like raspberries, the salmonberry’s blend of sweet, sour, and slightly bitter was a defining aspect of summer

for me — searching them out, picking, and watching my Grandma turn them into jams, pies, cakes, and other treats.

Whether you head to a U-Pick farm or forage in places like Seward Park, berry picking is an annual tradition most kids love. A few hints for smooth picking: Confirm opening times on farm websites or Facebook pages; if possible, pick in the morning; bring sunscreen, hats, and water; pack a few extra pails, just in case.

But back to those salmonberries. If you, like me, plan to head back to Seward Park (or Fauntleroy Park in West Seattle, just say’n) when they ripen, May to late July, here's my grandmother’s recipe.

GRANDMA’S SALMONBERRY PANCAKE SAUCE

Washed salmonberries

Sugar (2/3 of the amount of berries, less if you like tart)

1 Tbsp lemon juice (more depending on how much sauce you are making)

1 Tbsp vanilla (or more)

One or more optional spices:

½ tsp cinnamon

¼ tsp ginger

1/8 tsp nutmeg or allspice ¼-½ tsp cardamom

1. Wash berries. Combine with sugar, vanilla and lemon juice.

2. Bring the mixture to boil over medium heat, stirring constantly until the sauce thickens (which means the sugar is caramelized).

3. You can strain out the seeds. Grandma left them in.

4. Serve on top of pancakes with whipped cream. Keep refrigerated.

Note: The recipe can be used for other seasonal berries.

CARNATION

Strawberry U-pick season generally runs June to July, raspberry U-pick usually begins in July (check closer to date).

3remlingerfarms.com

BLUEBERRY U−PICK

Valentina Farm (Formerly Bryant Blueberries) ARLINGTON Blueberry season begins early July and continues through midSeptember. This spot offers at least 14 different varieties of blueberry.

3bryantblueberries.com

RASPBERRY U−PICK

Graysmarsh Farm

SEQUIM Raspberry season runs early July through early August at this farm, in the foothills of the Olympics. Check the farm’s picking schedule for lesser known but delicious loganberries, boysenberries, lavender, and more.

BLACKBERRIES

Check out “Blackberries: All you need to know to pick your own” online at 3Seattleschild.com

HUCKLEBERRIES

Pick a park or hiking trail (Cougar Mountain Trail is a good bet). You may also find huckleberries along Seward Park’s Huckleberry Trail.

SALMONBERRIES

Along with Seward Park, check out the trails in Burien’s Seahurst Park and along the Cougar Mountain Trail. Church Creek is known for early-season salmonberries.

find a full liST of berry locaTionS

SalmonberrieS in Seward park

Summer TuneS Soak up

by CHERYL MURFIN

Iwas mesmerized when The Paperboys played in Volunteer Park’s free summer concert series. By the great music, yes. But more so by the egoless little kids freely swirling and twirling front and center below the stage, their smiles wide, their spirits carefree, their parents trying to pull them back to their picnic blankets before giving up and into the magic

of the moment.

I wanted to join those kids; in fact, I vow this year to ask my insecure ego (I am not a dancer) to move aside and do it!

Summer concerts and kids are such a good mix. Lucky for us, lots of cities in Puget Sound seem to agree. You could practically head to a concert every day between July and August. Introduce your kids to the music of your youth, take them to kid-specific concerts, or expose them to jazz and other genres this summer. Just pack a picnic, roll up a blanket, and go. When you get there, don’t keep them in their seats. Outdoor concerts are for groovin’. Get up and dance and invite your kids to feel the music.

Best part: Most neighborhood, park or city concerts are free, family-friendly, and easy to drop into after dinner or on a whim.

CONCERTS

Summer Series at Volunteer Park

Thursdays, July 10–August 14, 6–8:30 p.m.

3volunteerparktrust.org/events

Summer Concerts at the Locks Saturdays and Sundays, May 31–Sept. 1, 2-4:30 p.m. 3ballardlocks.org

Music in the Park Thursdays, August 7–28, 6:30–8 p.m., Madison Park, Seattle. At Madison Park North Beach playground.

3friendsofmadisonpark.com/ music-in-the-park

South of Seattle: Kent Picnic Performances

Wednesdays, July 9–August 6, 11:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m., Fenwick Park.

3kentwa.gov/departments/ kent-parks

Auburn Kids Summerstage Wednesdays, July 9–August 13, noon-1 p.m., Les Gove Park. FREE.

3auburnwa.gov

Kirkland Summer Kids Concerts and evening concerts

Tuesdays, July 8–22 and August 5–19, 10–11 a.m., Juanita Park. Evening tunes, Thursdays, July 10–31 and August 7–28, 7–8:30 p.m., Marina Park.

3kirklanddowntown.org/events/ summer-concerts

Hazel Miller Plaza Concerts Tuesdays and Thursdays, July 8–August 21, 4:30–6 p.m., Edmonds Hazel Miller Plaza.

3edmondswa.gov

Celebrate Woodinville Summer Concerts

Wednesdays, July 9–30, 6:30–8 p.m., Wilmot Gateway Park. 3celebratewoodinville.com/ summer-event-series/

find a full liST of Summer muSic programS in The greaTer SeaTTle area

Bellevue Children’s Academy

bcacademy.com

14640 NE 24th St., Bellevue 98007 (425) 649-0791 Option 2

admissions@bcacademy.com

Grades Preschool – 4

Bellevue Children’s Academy, an International Baccalaureate World School serving preschool through 4th grade, embraces a whole-child approach, nurturing academic and developmental growth while attending to students’ social, emotional, and physical well-being. Small classes, hands-on learning, and inquiry-based instruction spark curiosity, empowering students to grow as compassionate, creative, and confident global citizens.

What kids love...

• Project-based curriculum keeps students engaged

• Specialty classes—art, music, Spanish, P.E., computers, library, and drama

• Small classes with individualized attention

What parents love...

• Nurturing student-centered environment

• Collaborative, rigorous learning with a global perspective

• Advanced curriculum that fosters curiosity

Willows Preparatory Academy

willowsprep.com

12280 NE Woodinville-Redmond Rd., Redmond 98052 (425) 649-0791 Option 4

admissions@willowsprep.com

Grades 5 - 12

Willows Preparatory School empowers students in grades 5–12 to grow as global thinkers and compassionate leaders. With small classes, International Baccalaureate (IB) Programmes, and rich extracurricular activities, we nurture curiosity, confidence, and ongoing academic, social, and personal growth—preparing students for college, career, and a life of meaningful impact.

What kids love...

• Project-based curriculum that keeps students engaged

• Specialty classes like visual art, performing arts, and design

• Small classes

What parents love...

• Global perspective through collaborative, rigorous IB framework

• Advanced curriculum

• Emphasis on understanding and real-world application over memorization

The paperboyS

Play with PURPOSE!

Big fun. Lasting impact.

At KidsQuest Children’s Museum, play means more—more curiosity, more confidence, more connection. With hands-on exhibits, STEAM-powered fun, and year-round programs, every visit is a chance to explore, create, and grow.

• Water Week JUL 21-25

• Mud Week AUG 25-29

• Curiosity Cart: Science of Art

Staff-led activities every day in JUL & AUG.

• Playful Parties

Celebrate special occasions with hands-on fun and exclusive access to the Museum.

• Membership Perks

Unlimited visits, early camp access, and special discounts all year long.

Whirl into an

incluSive playground

Parks that work for every child

by CHERYL MURFIN & NATASHA DILLINGER

There was a calm in the air as I walked through the gate at the Seattle PlayGarden. Passing by two giant silver dandelion sculptures bursting with seed and a row of perfectly clipped topiary animals, I was struck by the simplicity of the small playground to my left, the width of the sidewalks in front of me, and the beauty of the well-kept garden beds all around.

“The idea with the gardens is that we try to plant things that kids can interact with,” Liz Bullard, PlayGarden’s executive director, told me.

In fact, everything in this park, located at 1745 24th Ave. S, was placed here with intention, giving children with disabilities — and all visitors — a safe, curiosity-igniting, fully accessible park and playground experience.

The PlayGarden is generally open to the public from dawn until dusk. However, there are specific times during the summer when it’s closed for summer camp or other events. Check out these summer play opportunities:

• Summertime supervised Free Play runs Fridays and Saturdays from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., through August 23.

• Free Wheelchair Basketball is held on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon, through August 23.

• Learn about PlayGarden Summer Camps and more at 3seattleplaygarden.org.

PUGET SOUND PARKS MOVE TOWARD INCLUSION

Seattle PlayGarden is one of several parks and playgrounds in the region created to truly welcome kids of all abilities.

What does that look like? Families say “unitary surfacing” such as poured rubber

or turf is important in an inclusive playground — it’s best for wheelchair navigation and can help prevent issues with cochlear implants. Cozy, sheltered places can give autistic kids a break from noisy activity. Sensory panels near ground level provide audio and visual feedback that engages disabled kids and their non-disabled friends. And fencing to help coral kids prone to wandering is a big plus, say parents.

Providing opportunities for children of different abilities to interact is also key for inclusivity. For example, swing banks should locate accessible swings with belt and toddler swings so kids of all ages and abilities can swing together.

And one thing: Clayton Beaudoin, a landscape architect from Site Workshop, says, “An important criteria for genuine accessibility is that the feature element — whatever is widely held as the coolest feature of the park — be fully usable by everyone.”

Worried your child will bolt? Check out “Safe places to play around Seattle for children who elope” online at 3Seattleschild.com.

INCLUSIVE PLAYGROUNDS

Along with Seattle PlayGarden, check out these four playgrounds where kids of all abilities will feel included and safe.

Artists at Play

305 Harrison St., Seattle (Seattle Center)

INCLUSIVE FEATURES: Molded bucket and basket swings, a wheelchair-accessible spinner, turf hills for strength challenges, and multiple music sensory elements.

Forest Park

802 E. Mukilteo Blvd., Everett

INCLUSIVE FEATURES: We-Go-Round accessible spinner, ramp to accessible teeter-totter, molded bucket and basket swings, cozy dome hiding place, and a bank of musical and interactive sensory panels.

Evergreen Rotary Park

1500 Park Ave., Bremerton

INCLUSIVE FEATURES: Molded bucket and

basket swings, ramps, accessible spinner, two kinds of accessible teeter totters, a roller table, and a giant bank of sensory panels (including ones with braille, sign language, and communication pictures for non-verbal kids).

Pathways Park (Eli’s Park Project)

5201 Sandpoint Way NE, Seattle (Sandpoint)

INCLUSIVE FEATURES: Multiple types of accessible swings and spinners, intersecting pathways, accessible nature play.

for a fuller liST of inclusive playgroundS

SUNDAY

Check ouT a full calendar of evenTs aT >SeaTTleSchild.com/calendar

6 All ages Zumba® on Seattle Waterfront's Pier 62: Enjoy free Zumba® classes on Sundays through Sept. 28. All ages but children must be accompanied by an adult. FREE 3tinyurl.com/ 5n8tzjrv

13 Seattle Outdoor Theater Festival, Volunteer Park: Multiple theatre companies come together to present a weekend of free theatre and youth Shakespeare workshops throughout the park. July 12–13. FREE greenstage. org/sotf/

20 Chinatown Seafair Parade, Seattle: Features lion and dragon dances, martial arts, and the Chinese Girls Drill Team in the International District, passing by Hing Hay Park. FREE 3tinyurl.com/ y6dus42s

27 Outdoor theater: Backyard Bard offers stripped down productions of Shakespeare’s plays, each an hour long and both performed by versatile actors. Check locations and times on the website. FREE 3greenstage.org/ backyard-bard-2025/

JULY

1

Concert truck at Freeway Park, Seattle: Concert hall on wheels brings the joy of chamber music. Performances are an hour long. Bring a chair and a picnic. FREE 3seattlechamber music.org/ concert-truck/

2

Movie at Ballard Branch Library: Ballard Branch will screen a movie (TBA) at 1:30 p.m. Popcorn included. FREE 3tinyurl.com/ 3zr3ckhu

7 Summer Splash! Festival of Fun in Olympia: Hands On Children’s Museum offers summer fun with themed adventures, animal encounters, performances and more, through Sept.1. ADMISSION FEE 3tinyurl.com/ dujkrb3b

14 Dinosaur Discovery at Woodland Park Zoo: Experience the wonder of more than 25 life-sized dinosaurs in the zoo’s completely immersive display. Through Sept. 1. ADMISSION & EXHIBIT FEE 3zoo.org/dinosaurs

21 Visit Seattle Spray Parks: Visit Lincoln Park, Green Lake Park, Van Asselt Commuanity Center, and Volunteer Park spray parks, open daily (if the temperature is above 70 degrees) through Sept. 1. FREE 3tinyurl.com/ mefe9fh3

28 Slug Festival at Northwest Trek Wildlife Park, Eatonville: Celebrate the state’s slimy mascots with human slug races, slug talks, slugs on display, and kids’ crafts through July 29. ADMISSION 3nwtrek.org/event/ slug-fest/

8 Summer Kids' Concert in Kirkland: Come dance and play at weekly concerts at Juanita Park, featuring Harmonica Pocket, Cowboy Buck, and more. Through August 19. FREE 3kirklanddown town.org/events/ summer-concerts/

15 Movies in the Park, Bellevue: Pre-movie live entertainment beginning at 7 p.m. with movies at dusk every Tuesday evening through August 19. FREE 3tinyurl.com/3zjxtz97

9 FIFA World Cup Watch Party in Westlake Park, Seattle: Cheer on your favorite soccer teams at free watch parties in the park. Themed giveaways, interactive activities, and pop-up booths. FREE 3tinyurl.com/ 5h623rfa

16 Seattle Aquarium

Visit: Join Seattle Aquarium staff for public programming on Pier 62. Drop-in programs will explore art and science and invite self-reflection and connection. FREE 3tinyurl.com/ 5fhxmasm

22 Seahurst Beach Naturalist, Seattle: Join the Environmental Science Center beach naturalists during low tide and learn stewardship tips, how to explore safely, and get questions answered. Multiple dates. FREE 3tinyurl.com/ m83vx62z

29 Seattle Fleet Week (Seafair): Check out this week-long chance to meet sailors and guardsmen, enjoy free music and a parade, and tour

23 Seattle Children's Film Festival: This fest is filled with exciting films and special events designed for young audiences and families and runs through July 27. ADMISSION 3tinyurl.com/ vy6pdmem

30 $1 Movies: Take the kids to see "Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem" or "The Garfield Movie" at a Regal Cinema today for only $1. Shows at 11 a.m. tinyurl.com/ 4w9sa9at

3 Fireworks in Mountlake Terrace: Pie-eating contests, field games, a DJ, food trucks, and big fireworks over beautiful Lake Ballinger. FREE 3cityofmlt.com/ 2012/3rd-of-JulyFamily-Celebration

4

4th of July: Fireworks and parades: Check events happening in and around Seattle, including fireworks, family activities, parades, food trucks, and more.

10 Low Tide: the Environ mental Science Cen ter beach naturalists during low tide at Seahurst Park. They will help you explore safely, answer questions, and share stewardship tips. 10 a.m.-2:30 p.m. Meet at Seahurst Park Senior Center. FREE 3tinyurl.com/8h6rzydc

17 King County Fair, Enumclaw: Food, music, carnival rides, vendors, entertainment, demonstrations, 4H animals, and a rodeo (Friday, 6 p.m.) At Enumclaw Expo Center through July 20. ADMISSION 3tinyurl.com/ fy2rp6vx

24 Renton River Days Festival: Family festival runs through July 27, offering a variety of events, special features, arts and crafts, parade, recreation, food trucks, and live entertainment. FREE 3tinyurl.com/ df3vemub

31 Spotlight on the Waterfront: Experience an evening of storytelling through Hip Hop spoken word that addresses and heals generational trauma. Check out other offerings online. FREE 3tinyurl.com/ 2zvc43pc

seattleschild.com/ fourth-of-july-fun-

5 Scenic Chairlift Ride at Snoqualmie Sum mit: Scenic lift rides, food and drinks, and Saturday live music series running through Labor Day. ADMISSION FEE 3tinyurl.com/ 5fph293s

Seafood Fest, A block party in downtown Ballard, with live music, local restaurants, vendors, and a craft beer showcase. FREE 3seafoodfest.org/

12 Redmond Derby Days: This popular event features parades, food and craft vendors, carnival rides, family activities, live music and a drone show. FREE 3redmond.gov/1138/ Derby-Days

18 Vashon Strawberry Festival: Old-time tradition festival through July 20. Live music, vendor booths, a parade and a car parade, kid zone, and much more. FREE 3tinyurl.com/ 7ejyb3bv

25 Bellevue Arts Museum Fair: Fair features 275+ inspiring artists showcasing unique, handmade crafts and art, free programming including BAM exhibitions, Kids Fair, BAM Stage, food trucks and wine garden, through July 27. FREE 3bellevuearts.org/

19 Washington Midsummer Renaissance Faire: Five weekends of lively medieval performances, costumes, a marketplace of mercantile and artistry, jousting and more. Saturdays and Sundays through August 17. ADMISSION 3washingtonfaire.com

26 Seafair Torchlight Parade & Run: More than 100 parade units, from dragon dancers to precision drill teams and marching bands along the waterfront at 7:30 p.m. Come early for the Torchlight run! PARADE FREE 3seafair.org/

Explore low Tide wonderS ThiS Summer! Join beach naturalists from Seattle Aquarium and other marine orgs to see what lives under Puget Sound waters. Find more dates at 3seattleaquarium.org.

Olympic Sculpture

Park Pocket Beach

July 23, 9–11:30 a.m.

July 24, 9:30 a.m.12:30 p.m.

July 25, 10 a.m.–1 p.m.

Dash Point

July 24, 9 a.m.–noon

July 25, 10 a.m.–1 p.m.

Golden Gardens Beach

July 25, 10 a.m.–1 p.m.

Seahurst Beach

July 25, 10 a.m.–1 p.m.

Check ouT a full calendar of evenTs aT >SeaTTleSchild.com/calendar

3 Magnolia Summerfest, Seattle: Last day of this fest’s family activities, including a parade, live music, beer/wine garden, inflatable houses/ rides, craft booths and much more. August 1-3. FREE 3magnolia summerfest.org/

10 Tibet Fest at Seattle Center: Tibetan food booths, a Himalayan Bazaar, a photography exhibition, a documentary film screening, and more. August 9-10. FREE 3tinyurl.com/ wc2ctpsn

17 BrasilFest at Seattle Center: BrasilFest invites the broader community to enjoy Brazilian capoeira, food, music, dance, and more. FREE

24 Bicycle Weekend: A stretch of Lake Washington Boulevard will be closed to vehicles, open for people. FREE 3tinyurl.com/4n8f8x4z

31 Bumbershoot Festival at Seattle Center: THE music/arts festival of summer. Aug. 30–31. ADMISSION 3bumbershoot.com

AUGUST

4 day at National Parks: All national parks that charge admission, including the three national parks located in Washington (Mt. Rainier, Olympic, North Cascades), will offer free entrance today. FREE 3tinyurl.com/ maftdvvd

11 Immersive Animal Experience Farm Tour: Enchanted Farms in Duvall offers a onehour hands-on visit with goats, sheep, mini donkeys, and more. Learn about each animal, feed and pet them. ADMISSION 3tinyurl.com/t4cy5zhf

18 Kids Club Entertainment at Allan Yorke Park: Enjoy kid-friendly music, entertainment, and more this summer. Mondays July 14-August 18. FREE 3tinyurl.com/ r9h5pksf

5 Dusk, Seattle: Enjoy 16 summer evenings of free music, dance lessons, and dancing. Dates and park locations vary, check online. Rain Hotline: 206264-5646. FREE 3tinyurl.com/ y44sa7yy

Explore low Tide wonderS ThiS Summer!

Join beach naturalists from Seattle Aquarium and other marine orgs to see what lives under Puget Sound waters. Find more dates at seattleaquarium.org.

Point Defiance Park, Aug. 8, 10 a.m.-noon

6 From Hiroshima to Hope, Seattle: The 80th anniversary of the atomic bombings of Hiroshima and Nagasaki. Join at Green Lake for a program of music, poetry and speakers, and a lantern-floating ceremony on the lake. FREE 3tinyurl.com/3kppxrjm

12 Pancakes with Penguins at Woodland Park Zoo: Enjoy a delightful spread of fluffy pancakes, fresh fruit, and tasty toppings—with a front-row view of the penguin exhibit.

ADMISSON 3zoo.org

19 Tuesdays in Ballard: Enjoy hot dogs, fruit, and beverages while creating crafts and playing games like corn hole, axe throwing, and horseshoe at Ballard Community Center. July 8–Aug. 19. FREE 3tinyurl.com/ mtvfk8tb

25 Visit Kelsey Creek Farm, Bellevue: Step back to a simpler time as you view animals and enjoy a quiet farm setting. Open daily. FREE 3tinyurl.com/ 3yevf79a

26 Remlinger Farms Family Fun Park: More than 25 rides, attractions crafted for children, live entertainment, and more. Open all summer long. ADMISSION 3remlingerfarms.com

13 Seattle Worldcon Science Fiction Convention: Science and fiction, with special programming for kids and teens including crafts, games, a tween/ teen lounge, creative classes, story time and more through Aug. 17. ADMISSION 3seattlein2025.org/

20 Yoga at Seattle Waterfront Pier 62: Community-led yoga at Pier 62. Enjoy all-levels, accessible, and adaptable classes for all ages. See website for other dates. FREE 3tinyurl.com/ rxr837c6

Olympic Beach Park, Edmonds

Aug. 9, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Aug. 22, 10:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.

7 Music in the Park, Seattle:

Enjoy four Thursday evening concerts, August 7–28. Bring your picnic blanket, food, and your dancing shoes to the Madison Park playground. FREE 3tinyurl.com/ 4pkvsxe8

14 BECU Outdoor Movie at Marymoor Park: Pre movie entertainment, food trucks and big screen movies under the stars. See website for full line up. ADMISSION 3epiceap.com/ movies-at-marymoor/

1 Seafair Week end Festival, Seattle: racing, air show, and festival all rolled into one, plus a car show, live music, family activities, and more through August 3. Admission fee on August. 2 and 3. FREE 3seafair.org $10. FREE 3tinyurl.com/ 5n6tn76z

8 South Lake Union Block Party, Seattle: Music, local food trucks, a beer and cocktail garden, lawn games, and a community fair with local businesses and organizations, for all ages. FREE 3slublockparty.com/ #get-involved

15 Creative Convergence/ Acrobatics at Gas Works Park: Evening of free circus arts, yoga, fire dancing, flow arts, music, and interactive art at Gas Works Park, 5–10 p.m. FREE 3tinyurl.com/3bua8fsf

9 Celebrate Woodinville Festival: The festival offers a pancake breakfast at the fire station, a parade, kids’ activities, the Basset Bash, and more at Wilmot Gateway Park. FREE 3tinyurl.com/ ytatrfvy

16 King County CHOMP!: A celebration of local food, includes family activities, petting zoos, zucchini races, kids’ concerts, and more at Marymoor Park. FREE

21 Evergreen State Fair: The 11-day county fair features display halls, concerts, fair food, demo derby cars, carnival rides, and more. Aug 21–26, Aug 28–Sept 1. ADMISSION 3evergreenfair.org/

22 Dragonflight Gamecon and Everfree NW My Little Pony Convention, Bellevue: Both of these conventions offer family activities with gaming and My Little Pony toys and activities. Through August 24. ADMISSION

27 Wallingford Farmers Market, Seattle: Situated in a spacious park with a playground, a gazebo, and a thriving P-Patch. Wednesdays 3–7 p.m. through September. FREE 3tinyurl.com/ 5n9anvjy

28 Kittitas County Fair, Ellensburg: Located in the heart of central Washington, this old-fashioned county fair offers games, entertainment, contests, livestock, and more. Through Sept. 1. ADMISSION 3tinyurl.com/ 3z28mzs5

29 Washington State Fair in Puyallup: With more than 75 rides, endless food options, live entertainment, adrenaline-pumping rodeo action, and more. Through Sept. 21 (closed Tuesdays and Sept. 3). ADMISSION 3thefair.com

23 Snoqualmie Days: Parade, train rides for sale, a music stage, a kids’ area, model trains in city hall, and vendors on a carfree street. August 22–23. FREE 3snoqualmiedays.org/

30 End of Summer Blast at Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium: An all-weekend zoo celebration jam-packed with cool activities, including a lilypad fountain, the chance to feed goats, and more. ADMISSION 3pdza.org

Museums are for KIDs!

How do things work?

Who shares the earth with me? What does art say to me? Who do I want to become?

Museums tackle the big questions that young minds ask

KidsQuest children’s museum

UPCOMING EVENTS

Summer Nights

Explore curated activities with new themes weekly! Engage with 25+ exhibits, interact with live animals, special guests, snacks, & more! Select Fridays, JUL - AUG.

Art Everywhere

Artists make their mark! Draw like Pollock, ship Mondrianinspired boxes, and explore a Warhol takeover in the Bellevue Mercantile during this colorful Museum-wide event.

Curiosity Cart: Science of Art

Enjoy free and engaging staff-led activities twice daily, 7 days per week. Playful art and science activities like color mixing, gelli prints, or capillary action!

What kids will love:

Hop behind the wheel of a semitruck, climb 25 feet in the air, work as a team in the Bellevue Mercantile. Play with clay in the Art Studio or build with repurposed materials in Recycle Rebuild. Venture up the Story Tree, cozy up with a book, & develop reading skills.

The Details

Website: KidsQuestMuseum.org

What parents will love:

Socialize and connect with your community! Watch as children engage in independent play and tackle exciting STEAM concepts through hands-on play. Engage with caregivers, educators, and Museum staff! Help your child combat summer learning loss with regular visits to your neighborhood educational resource!

Address: 1116 108th Ave. NE, Bellevue, WA 98004; Adjacent to the Bellevue Library and Ashwood Park

Hours: Open 7 days a week, 6/30-8/26. Special events and programming occur on various days & times. Check the website for the most up to date information!

Cost: To guarantee play we suggest reserving tickets online. Members: FREE; Children Under 1: FREE; Children over 1: $16.75; Adult Ticket: $16.75

Free/Discounted Days: Discounted tickets and memberships available every day! Visit: bit.ly/KidsQuestAccessDiscounts for more information.

Special Events: Bubblefest, Summer Nights, Water Week, Mud Week, and our traveling STEAM carts full of unique activities designed to unlock curiosity and creativity. Check our website for the most up to date information.

Summer Camps: Yes

After-School/Weekend Classes: Yes

Programs for schools/homeschoolers: bit.ly/KidsQuestSchoolAgedPrograms

Family-Friendly Features: Low-sensory Afternoon on the third Thursday of every month or low-sensory resource kits available for use on-site anytime. Book a birthday party or reserve a private event and enjoy the luxury of having the entire Museum to yourself. KidsQuest Memberships include unlimited visits, early camp access, and special discounts!

Museum Café: Our expertly stocked Museum Store is full of educational games, toys, & light bites or drinks for both children and adults.

Rocky Reach Discovery Center

SCAVENGER HUNT

Don’t miss these five exciting treasures at the Rocky Reach Discovery Center

Steamboat Captain

Steer a steamship through a treacherous stretch of the Columbia River rapids.

Fish Viewing

Look a salmon — and other fish — in the eye through huge viewing windows.

Fish Tales

Get your hands on fishy innards (minus the slime!)

First People

Travel back in time and learn about the First People of the Columbia.

Hydropower Know How

Crank a turbine and use your own power to create electricity.

What kids will love:

Look a live salmon in the eye; steer a steamship through the Columbia River rapids; get your hands on salmon innards; run, jump and play in shady Rocky Reach Park.

The Details

What parents will love:

Safe, go-at-your-own-pace “edu-tainment” — we make the magic of hydropower fun! Easy parking and in/out from Hwy 97A.

Website: chelanpud.org/learning-center/rocky-reach-discovery-center facebook.com/VisitRockyReach; IG @VisitRockyReach

Address: 5000 State Hwy 97A Wenatchee, WA 98801

Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 9:30 a.m.-5 p.m

Cost: FREE! A public power benefit. Rocky Reach Dam is owned by the people of Chelan County.

Free/Discounted Museum Days: Every day

Special Events: Salmon Festival: Saturday, September 20, 2025 Fall Harvest Round-up: Saturday, October 25, 2025

Summer Camps: Yes. There are still spaces remaining in our Summer Science classes! Join us for a journey into clean energy as we explore hydropower, wind power, and solar power. Campers will ignite their passion for science through hands-on experiments, activities, and challenges. Call (509) 661-8437 to learn more and register.

After-School/Weekend Classes: Yes

Programs for Schools/Homeschoolers: We offer a variety of hands-on, interactive STEM educational field trips and science presentations for school and homeschool groups, designed to inspire and challenge students of all ages. Call us to book your field trip today.

Family-Friendly Features: Four floors of free(!) hands-on fun, acres of beautifully landscaped park and playground

Museum Café: Yes. Rocky Reach Café: Enjoy breakfast, lunch, or a freshly-baked treat for purchase. Open Tuesday-Saturday 9:30am-2pm.

SPARK museum of electrical invention

HIGHLIGHTS

Get electrified!

Explore static electricity with thrilling live demonstrations that make science unforgettable — and hilarious. This is science you can feel (and laugh about).

Step into history!

Docents bring vintage inventions to life with hands-on demos that fascinate kids and parents alike — learning truly becomes an experience here.

Become an inventor!

Curious kids become confident creators as they explore hands-on experiments. At SPARK, imagination meets real science in a fun, supportive environment.

What kids will love:

Older kids will love SPARK Museum’s immersive, handson exhibits that dive deep into science, invention, and electricity. With engaging docents who bring history and technology to life, the experience sparks real curiosity and excitement — perfect for curious minds ready to go beyond basic play and explore how the world works.

The Details

Website: sparkmuseum.org

Address: 1312 Bay St Bellingham, WA 98225

What parents will love:

Parents will love that SPARK Museum isn’t just for kids — it’s designed to ignite curiosity in everyone. Hands-on exhibits educate, entertain, and inspire visitors of all ages. Whether you’re exploring electricity, sound, or inventions, parents often find themselves just as engaged (if not more!) than their children. Come play together!

Hours: 11:00 am-5:00 pm Wednesday-Sunday; MegaZapper Show, Saturdays and Sundays at 2:30

Cost: General Admission: $6 for children (12 and under); $10 for adults; $5 additional for MegaZapper show

Free/Discounted Days: No but passes are available from the local library

Special Events: Yes! Keep an eye on the website and sign up for our monthly newsletter!

Summer Camps: Yes

After-School/Weekend Classes: No

Programs for schools/homeschoolers: sparkmuseum.org/education/field-trips

Family-Friendly Features: Interactive science and history exhibits for all ages

Museum Café: No

Burke museum of natural history and culture

The Details

Website: burkemuseum.org

Address: 4303 Memorial Way Northeast, Seattle WA 98195

Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. (closed Monday)

Cost: $0-$24

Free/Discounted Days: First Thursday of every month

Special Events: Please visit our website for the most up to date event schedule.

Summer Camps: Please visit our website for the most up to date educational opportunities.

Family-Friendly Features: Interactive exhibits, visible workrooms, birthday parties, play spaces, arts and crafts, public programs, and educational opportunities.

Museum Café: Off the Rez, Native Indigenous food made from scratch, by hand.

What kids will love:

Dinosaurs, animals, microscopes, scientists at work, crafts, fossil digs, and play spaces.

What parents will love:

Exhibits, visible workrooms, public programs, behind-the-scenes opportunities, educational offerings.

Children’s Museum of Skagit county

The Details

Website: SkagitChildrensMuseum.net

Address: 432 Fashion Way, Burlington, WA 98233

Hours: Check our website for current information!

Cost: Infants under 12 months: Free; Children 12 months or older and adults: $10.75/person; Military/Seniors (65 years old): $9.75/person; Museum’s For All $3.00/person, up to 4 people (EBT, WIC, CHIP, Provider One, Apple Health, or Foster Parent cards. Proof of eligibility will be required.)

Special Events: Current information online!

Summer Camps: SkagitChildrensMuseum.net/education/camps

After-school/Weekend Classes: Current information online!

Family-Friendly Features: Interactive exhibits and activities for kids of all ages to learn through hands-on play. Celebrations and events throughout the year. Museum Explorers Preschool. Museum store. Memberships available.

Advertisement funded by lodging taxes. VisitSkagitValley.com, VisitBurlingtonWA.com

What kids will love:

A real tug boat, semi-truck, crane and so much more to explore in the Main Street exhibits-Café, Dental Office, Doctor’s Office, Bank, Design Studio, Grocery Store and Construction Site. Create in the Art Studio, discover the Reading Room, Toddler Farmyard, Barn, STEAM Lane, Theatre Stage, Music Studio, and Train exhibits.

What parents will love:

The exhibits are as much fun for adults as they are for children! The museum offers opportunities and resources for parents to engage with their children, learn more about the community, in an atmosphere that feels welcoming and relaxed. Exhibits are filled with components that inspire curiosity, exploration and fun!

Hands on Children’s Museum

The Details

Website: hocm.org/

Address: 414 Jefferson St. NE Olympia, WA 98501

Hours: Monday-Saturday: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sunday: 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Cost: Save $1 on general admission by purchasing your ticket online. General (18 mo.-64 years): $19.95; Seniors (65+): $18.95; Military (w/valid ID): $17.95

Free/Discounted Days: On the First Friday of the month, 4–8 p.m., admission is just $1. Access Admission is available every day. $3 each EBT/SNAP, WIC or Free/Reduced School Lunch Program for guests who qualify, sponsored by WSECU.

Special Events: Summer Splash: June–Aug.; Boo Bash: Oct.; Noon Years: Dec. 31; Ice Adventures: Jan.; Spring Break: April

Summer Camps: hocm.org/summercamps

After-School/Weekend Classes: Check website

Programs for schools/homeschoolers: Field Trips Available

Family-Friendly Features: Preschool, Sensory Friendly Hour Sundays, Sensory Friendly Room Saturdays Museum Café: Yes

Imagine Children’s Museum

The Details

Website: ImagineCM.org

Address: 1502 Wall St., Everett, WA 98201

Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Cost: $22 per person, $19 Seniors (65+) and active Military, FREE for children up to 2

Free/Discounted Days: Free Community Access Night every third Friday from 5 to 9 p.m. See website for more.

Special Events: Visit ImagineCM.org/calendar for a full calendar of events!

Summer Camps: Yes, kids ages 3-11.

After-School/Weekend Classes: Yes, sign up at ImagineCM.org/enews_signup for weekly updates.

Programs for schools/homeschoolers: ImagineCM.org/field-trips

Family-Friendly Features: Something for every age, sensoryfriendly resources, and a welcoming space for all.

Museum Café: Divy’s Food Truck on the third floor offers hot food, grab-and-go options, plus coffee for adults. Tables are available for families bringing their own food.

What kids will love:

Over 150 exciting exhibits in 10 beautiful galleries. Half-acre outdoor play area. Year-round activities, guests, and special events. Don’t miss Summer Splash! Festival of Fun with animal encounters, visiting artist, and special activities June – Aug.

What parents will love:

Washington’s award-winning museum on Olympia’s waterfront. East Bay Plaza with 250’ interactive stream. Near downtown, Famer’s Market, and Percival Landing. Clean and beautiful. Fresh foods, in the Play Day Café. Featured in several Blippi videos.

What kids will love:

The PNW’s largest children’s museum, Imagine offers 68,000 square feet for kids to climb, build, pretend and explore! From airplanes to tugboats, they’ll learn about the people and places that shape the Puget Sound. This summer, don’t miss a special hands-on exhibit based on a beloved TV character.

What parents will love:

Voted the number one place for family fun in Snohomish County, Imagine offers more than just play. Exhibits spark curiosity while connecting kids to the region they live in. The Museum is clean, welcoming, and thoughtfully designed. Conveniently located just off I-5 at exit 192.

PHOTO © BILLY HUSTACE PHOTOGRAPHY

Kids Discovery museum

The Details

Website: kidimu.org

Address: 301 Ravine Lane NE, Bainbridge Island, WA 98110

Hours: Summer Hours: Mon-Thu 1-5 p.m., Fri-Sun 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Cost: Members FREE; Infants (under 12 months) FREE; Resident rate $9, Grandparents/Seniors $8; Non-Residents $11, Grandparents/Seniors $10; Military $8, Museums for All $3

Free/Discounted Days: Every First Friday of the month is Pay-What-You-Will

Special Events: First Friday Art Walk, Cultural Museum Pop-Ups, Sippy Cup Socials for Members, Halloween Costume Swap, The Holidays at KiDiMu, Noon-Year’s Eve, Fam Jam, KiDiMu in the Community, MiniMu, Summer Camps, Sing Along and Sounds, and Preschool at KiDiMu

Summer Camps: kidimu.org/summercamps

After-School/Weekend Classes: No

Programs for schools/homeschoolers: MiniMu, Guided Walks at the Bloedel Reserve, Sing Along and Sounds, The Preschool at KiDiMu, kidimu.org

Family-Friendly Features: Birthday Parties/After-Hour Events, Field Trips, Educational Pop-Ups

Museum Café: Yes

MOHAI

The Details

Address: 860 Terry Ave., Seattle

Hours: 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily; Summer Extended Hours: Thursdays, July and August, 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

Cost: Admission is free from 5-8 p.m. on first Thursdays to MOHAI’s regular galleries. Admission to select special exhibits is included with regular MOHAI admission of $25 for adults, $20 for seniors (65 and above) and military (with ID); $19 for students; free for children 14 and under (when accompanied by an adult) and MOHAI members. As part of the Museums For All program, low-income families can visit for a minimal fee of $2 per person with an Electronic Benefits Transfer (EBT) card.

Programs for schools/homeschoolers: MOHAI’s wide range of hands-on educational programs make local history come alive for students at every grade level. Diverse offerings include onsite museum field trips and off-site Portable Museum rentals, with scholarship funding support available for those who qualify. mohai.org/education/

Family-Friendly Features: Join MOHAI as we tinker, experiment, and create our way through history. Explore in the Idea Lab in the Bezos Center for Innovation or at home using the templates and videos. Activities change every other month.

Museum Café: Stop in for a bite at Gourmondo at MOHAI. Open 10 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. First Thursdays of the month 10 a.m.-8 p.m.

What kids will love:

KiDiMu offers hands-on exhibits for every learner. Budding scientists explore STEM displays, while creative minds enjoy the Light Wall, Art Studio, and Creation Station. Imaginative kids love Our Town and HOME play spaces.

What parents will love:

KiDiMu, in downtown Winslow near shops and eateries, offers fun for all ages. Parents enjoy exploring all exhibits. The museum is clean, safe, and features an outdoor space for fresh-air play.

What kids will love:

Create, collaborate, and explore at the Bezos Center for Innovation where young visitors can tinker and solve real-world problems in the Idea Lab and use Exploration and Innovation Packs to discover history in fun, hands-on ways.

What parents will love:

MOHAI’s big open floor plan allows kids to get their wiggles out as they explore. Hands-on interactives supplement in-depth exhibit content to entertain everyone in the family.

The Museum of Flight

The Details

Website: museumofflight.org

Address: 9404 East Marginal Way South, Seattle, WA 98108

Hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM

Cost: Free-$29 (Proud participant of Museums For All, Library Free Museum Pass Programs, and more. Additional discounts available, see website under “Hours & Admission”)

Free/Discounted Days: First Thursday of Every Month, 5-9 PM

Special Events: R2-D2 Builders Club Expo (July 12), Space Patch Design Workshop (July 19), Jet Blast Bash (Aug. 2-3), Family Workshops (Weekends)

After-School/Weekend Classes: Variety of options for K-12 including programs for BIPOC, girls in STEM and credit-bearing programs, visit museumofflight.org/Education

Programs for schools/homeschoolers: Engaging field trip options for all learners, visit museumofflight.org/Education or email Education@museumofflight.org

Family-Friendly Features: Explore airplane and space exhibits, children’s play area, walk-thru aircraft like the Concorde and Air Force One, Aerospace Education Center for career and educational program information.

Museum Café: Yes

Oregon Museum of Science and Industry (OMSI)

The Details

Website: OMSI.edu

Address: 1945 SE Water Avenue, Portland, Oregon 97214

Hours: Summer Hours: Sunday-Friday 9:30 am-5:30 pm, Saturday 9:30 am-7 pm

Fall/Winter Hours: Tuesday-Friday 9:30 am-5:30 pm, Saturday 9:30 am-7 pm, and Sunday 9:30 am-5:30 pm

Cost: General Admission: Adult (14+) $20, Senior (63+) $17, Youth (3-13) $15, Infant (Under 3 years) Free; Free to Members

Free/Discounted Days: $5 Days the first Sunday of every month

Special Events: Throughout the year, check out omsi.edu/whats-on

Summer Camps: Yes

After-School/Weekend Classes: No

Programs for schools/homeschoolers: omsi.edu/school-community-programs

Family-Friendly Features: Experience science-fueled fun for all ages!

Museum Café: Yes

What kids will love:

Planes, spacecraft and rockets! Sit in a pilot’s seat, walk inside airplanes, simulator rides and virtual reality experience ($), and hands-on crafts.

What parents will love:

Free hands-on craft workshops (Sat/Sun), big galleries to roam in, aerospace career information and programs and more!

What kids will love:

Touch a Triceratops bone, change fire color, try Morse code, and more! Explore fun experiments with OMSI educators. Teens 13–18 can get creative in the Teen Tech Center—an exclusive space just for them.

What parents will love:

Whether experimenting in handson labs, exploring immersive exhibits, touring a real submarine, splashing and climbing in our science playground, or gazing at the stars in our planetarium, there is something for everyone at OMSI.

Pacific bonsai museum

The Details

Website: pacificbonsaimuseum.org

Address: 2515 South 336th St., Federal Way, WA 98001

Hours: Tuesday through Sunday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Cost: Free (donations appreciated)

Free/Discounted Days: Everyday

Special Exhibits: Small Talk: All the dirt on growing mini-but-mighty trees and Building Wonder: Bonsai Treehouses by Dave Creek

Programs for schools/homeschoolers: pacificbonsaimuseum.org/learn/field_trips/

Family-Friendly Features: ~60 bonsai are on display year-round; children and parents alike find the tiny trees captivating and enchanting; experience the exhibits at your own pace; interpretive materials available to read about each bonsai; a clean, well cared for outdoor museum; flat, fine gravel walkways are stroller/wheelchair accessible.; with free admission for all!

Museum Café: No

White River Valley Museum

The Details

Website: wrvmuseum.org/

Address: 918 H Street SE, Auburn, WA 98002

Hours: Open Wednesday – Sunday from Noon – 4PM

Cost: FREE!

Special Events: Check our website for a complete list of events.

Summer Camps: Yes

After-School/Weekend Classes: Yes

Programs for schools/homeschoolers: wrvmuseum.org/field-trips-group-tours

Family-Friendly Features: Kid friendly hands-on activities and immersive history exhibits for the whole family, an annual Christmas tree exhibit, and dozens of free family programs throughout the year.

Museum Café: No

What kids will love:

Chat with talking trees! The Small Talk exhibition lets kids imagine asking bonsai trees questions and getting answers through fun anime-style characters. Try handson activities like bonsai wiring and soil sifting. Marvel at six incredible miniature treehouses built into bonsai trees by Dave Creek, lead character designer for Bob’s Burgers.

What parents will love:

STEM education disguised as pure fun! Kids learn about botany, patience, and nature care while being thoroughly entertained. Beautiful, peaceful museum setting offers screen-free time in nature without a long drive. Educational value combined with artistic wonder from a professional animator’s whimsical treehouses.

What kids will love:

Kids love climbing aboard the caboose, wandering through the cabin, doing a scavenger hunt, exploring the kid’s only tents, and riding Sandy the mechanical horse.

What parents will love:

An easy, worry-free museum experience in a great park, right behind a King County Library. You can make the day of it or pop in for half an hour. Come on a summer Sunday to also enjoy the Auburn Farmer’s Market.

SCAN TO PLAN YOUR VISIT: