Looking for something fun and free to do with the kids this weekend? We’ve got you covered with fun for kids in Tacoma, Kent, Olympia, Gig Harbor, and all over the South Sound! Make it a great one!
The complete list by day and area is ahead! [Read more…]
Have you heard about the Cirque du Soleil production, Luzia, at Marymoor Park in Redmond?
If you’ve been wondering about taking the kids to Luzia while it plays in Seattle, we’ve got a review for you. Short version: If you’ve got one splurge in the family budget this year, this should be it!
The show is billed as an, “Acrobatic waking dream of Mexico,” and from the moment the show begins the costumes, sets, and special effects transport you into a beautiful dream world.
There are acrobatic acts, jugglers, a contortionist, and several sequences that you really have to see to believe. Yes, they make it rain on stage!
Performances are under a real life big top. When you arrive you get to mingle with costumed performers, which adds to the magic. Inside the tent there are souvenirs and snacks for purchase, and yes, you can take them into the show. It’s a lively, carnival like atmosphere.
We didn’t take our children (shhhh…..) but there were families all around us, and every child I saw was utterly mesmerized.
You will have to go to Redmond for this production, but this is one of those once-in-a-lifetime spectacles that’s definitely worth the trip. Seating is auditorium style, and I didn’t think there was a bad seat in the house, even if you were in back. There are some poles used to hold up the structure, but they have them in the aisles, and the action of the show is centerstage. The only consideration is whether your kiddos will be able to see over adults’ heads, but there are boosters available.
Tickets are not a bargain, but if you have one splurge in your budget this year, this would be the one to do! Maybe you have a budding gymnast or performer who would rather see this than have an expensive birthday party you don’t really want to deal with? Think about it…..
You can get more information about the show and tickets here. It runs through May 21st.
Top photos supplied by/used with permission of Cirque du Soleil. We received media tickets for review purposes; all opinions are my own.
Hey, Fancy Nancy fans! There is going to be a Fancy tea party just for you.
One convenient for Lakewood and Tacoma area readers will be at the University Place Library on April 19th, and there will also be one at the Gig Harbor Library on April 15th. These are FREE events for ages 5 and up, but you do need to register, and you’ll want to go Fast. Like now. As of this writing there are about 25 spots in UP but just (Eep!) 4 left in Gig Harbor.
Fancy Nancy herself will be there courtesy of Tacoma Musical Playhouse. You’ll want to wear fancy dress, naturally! These events are a fun promotion for Fancy Nancy: The Musical which starts April 22nd at the TMP. More on that to come! If you want to get in on these free library events, go here to register for Gig Harbor and here to register for the one at UP. You may also be interested in attending an event with The Daffodil Princesses.
If you’d like more information about the ticketed, Fancy Nancy musical at TMP you can head here. Performances start the 22nd and tickets are 12.00-15.00. While not a total bargain, that’s a reasonable price for quality theater, and kids can get autographs and pictures with the cast after every show. One performance is already sold out, so think about it-but not too long!
Have you heard about the painted rock craze yet?
Maybe you have Facebook friends talking about finding or hiding painted rocks around Tacoma or Puyallup? Or maybe you’ve found one on a recent park or playground trip? If you’ve been wondering about #PuyallupRocks or #TacomaRocks, I’ve got all the scoop!
The idea is a simple one: People paint designs on rocks and then hide them.
The idea is to spread a little joy and delight, and I’m sure I don’t have to tell you how fun it is for kids to go on a real life treasure hunt and find a painted rock.
Want to learn more? Here’s all you need to know to get started. [Read more…]
Update: The contest is over! Congratulations to Patti and Monica whose comments were chosen via random number generator. If you didn’t win, I know you’ll find lots of bargains whenever you can shop. We’ll have more contests coming your way soon!
Start your engines, bargain hunters! It’s consignment season, and one of the very biggest is coming right up from our friends with JBF Tacoma at the fairgrounds in Puyallup.
Yep, the huge, Just Between Friends sale at the Puyallup fairgrounds starts this week, and we’ve got the scoop on what’s new and a chance to win a Prime Time shopping pass!
If you’re a bargain hunting parent in Tacoma, Puyallup, or anywhere close, you won’t want to miss this chance to save on everything you could possibly need for babies to big kids at this huge kids’ consignment sale at the fairgrounds in Puyallup. Allison, the organizer, says you’ll find gently used merch from more than 800 families this time!
As always, it’s all neat, clean, and organized, and it’s a great way to save big without the hassle of a garage sale or thrift store. JBF merch is also thoroughly inspected and checked for recalls.
Whether you need to find books for summer reading, play clothes for vacation adventures, or an affordable solution for a special event you’ll be attending, JBF has you covered at prices 50-90% below retail !
Open to the Public: Thursday, March 30 – Sunday, April 2
Location: Washington State Fair Event Center Pavilion – Gold Gate-Parking is free!
Admission: FREE with ticket (see link below or pick ’em up around town)! Regular admission $2 Thurs & Fri, $1 Sat, free Sun
Special Events: It’s a Legging Party! Shop LuLaRoe and Agnes & Dora Friday 11am-7pm. Plus, a Girls Night Out Mixer 7pm-8pm Friday (buy tickets) to benefit Days For Girls, with awesome door prizes!
Yep, we’ve got two prime time shopping passes to give away, and each winner gets to bring a friend! These will get you in First-Wednesday March 29th from 7-9PM, and they are sold out! Woot! Ready to enter?
All entries must be left as comments on this post. Each entry should be left as a separate comment to improve your odds. The Prime Time event is only Wednesday evening, so don’t enter if you can’t make it, please. If you’ve never commented on the site before, your comment will go to my moderation queue before you see it, but I promise I’ll get to them just as quick as I can. On to the entry options….
I will choose winners Monday evening, and you’ll have 24 hours to confirm your prize! PLEASE leave an email you check (don’t forget the spam folder)! I will try to update this post with the winners’ names, but if you’ve won, you’ll find the announcement in your email-you don’t have to keep checking this post.
Good Luck! I can’t wait to see pics of what you all find!
Btw, If you’ve never been to this sale, it can be a bit overwhelming! I’ve got a post with tips-including a chart showing busy times-right here!
Disclosure: We received goods or services in exchange for this post. As always, the opinions are my own, and I would LOVE for you to let Allison and her team know you saw them on Sounds Fun Mom! Thanks for doing that! Facebook is not affiliated with this contest in any way.
Have you ever shopped the huge Just Between Friends Tacoma sale at the Puyallup fairgrounds? This is one of the biggest JBF events in the country! We think it’s a must-do for bargain hunters, but there are a few tips you should know if you’re a newbie because you’re dealing with Two Full Floors of items!
You can get free tickets and more information about this sale here at their site or here on their Facebook page.
Remember to show the pass here for free entry!
Have you shopped this sale before? We’d love for you to leave your best tips, too.
If you can’t make this one, there are also JBF events in Olympia and Seattle (typically held in Federal Way), and Seattle East (typically Issaquah). There are also several other consignment events coming up from other franchises. Happy shopping.
Looking for something fun and free to do with the kids this weekend? We’ve got you covered with fun for kids in Tacoma, Kent, Olympia, Gig Harbor, and all over the South Sound! Make it a great one!
All weekend
Diary of Anne Frank at Sumner Manestage Theater These productions are always well done; this would be an option for older, mature kids due to the subject matter.
Olympia Family Theater presents Alice in Wonderland various showtimes through April 2nd.
Saturday
All Over
The Monster at the End of this Book storytime at most Barnes and Noble stores. We do suggest calling your location to confirm, as we have found participation to be inconsistent.
Kids’ Club at Michael’s Stores 2.00/child for 30 minute sessions It’s a watercolor frame today. If you’re the plan ahead type, this would be a cute Mother’s Day gift for someone.
South King County
Visit the HCC Mast Center at Redondo The center and its touch tanks of sea critters are free and open to the public every Saturday from 10-2
Community Days at Black Diamond Camp in Auburn Try out the rock wall, indoor pool, and other camp fun. Activities are free; lunch is 5.00-see links for details.
World Water Day at Shadow Lake Preserve in Renton Learn about wetlands, use a microscope, and more! I’m not sure on pricing. Usually it’s a, “Suggested donation,” of 10.00 per person.
Centerstage theater in Federal Way presents Squatch! the musical Recommended for ages 8 and up; It’s a humorous musical about a boy and Sasquatch. Adult tickets are Really spendy, but there is a deal right now where you can get a free kid’s ticket with purchase of an adult ticket. Read about that here. -look for the post with the video.
We also recommend ILoveKent.net from my pal Dana for our Kent area readers.
Puyallup/Greater Pierce County
Lego My Library at the Puyallup Public Library Weekly stories and Lego building time 11AM
Exotic bird and animal expo at the Puyallup fairgrounds I’m not sure how kid friendly this is, but there should be lots of interesting animals to see. 10.00 admission/5.00 for kids 5-10; 9-3 Saturday and Sunday-CASH only at the door.
Featured Sponsor: There is always fun to be had at WiggleWorks! Pick up a gift card for your little one’s Easter Basket!
The Kalles Junior High Drama Department presents Cinderella
Mar 23-April 1 Thurs, Fri, Sat 7pm Understudy Matinee April 1 at 2pm
Tickets
$5 with ASB and elementary
$7 without ASB and adult-light up Star Wands will be on sale for 5.00
Note from SFM: Many area schools have productions this time of year. You might check in with yours to see if they’re doing something your kids would enjoy.
Tacoma/South Tacoma/Lakewood/Parkland
Storytime With A Princess. Join the Daffodil Princesses at Tacoma libraries. Free, drop in events. Bring your camera!
South Sound Summer Camp Fair at the STAR Center One stop shopping for summer camp from our friends at Parent Map. Kids get free use of the TreeTops playground!
Rainiers Pre-Season Party free admission and open to the public; food and drink specials, Ms game on the big screen, and other fun. Obviously, you’re welcome to pick out seats for season tickets, but that’s not required!
Swan Creek Mud Run two mile, family friendly race through obstacles and plenty of sloppy, wet mud! 40.00 day of registration fee (a few bucks cheaper in advance). Spendy but the photo ops and memories should be priceless if this is your kind of thing!
Tacoma Giants: Part 1 Trees of Point Defiance Park 9AM
See one of the tallest trees in the park! The event will include activities around the Fort Nisqually Picnic Shelter and the Beanstalk nearby. Less than 500′ of walking required to participate. 4.00 per person/12.00 per family of four. Sign up online or call for the family price-253 305 1022 Also offered in April if you can’t make this one
Tacoma Giants: Part 2 Immersion Tree Walk. 11AM-1PM
Immerse yourself into the world of living natural history and fall in love with the infinite shades of green in this in-depth look into the biology and history of the trees of Point Defiance.
Meet the instructor at the Fort Nisqually Picnic Shelter. Please dress appropriately for the weather, as this program will take place outside and require about 1 mile of walking. 8.00 per person/sign up online. Note from SFM: I don’t believe you have to do Part I to participate in Part II, though I don’t know for sure. It is also offered in April if you can’t make this one.
Lego Mindstorms event at Tacoma Libraries Kids build and program a simple robot. You do need to register; three spots left at South Tacoma and five left at Main as of this writing. Go fast!
Kitten shower at the Tacoma Humane Society Bring a donation item, enjoy light refreshments, and learn about their foster program. Note-not an adoption event; plan another visit if you want to take home a furry friend.
Teen Night at the Tacoma Art Museum photo booth, button making, collaborative murals, and more! These are FREE for area kids with a hs student id.
Lakewood/Parkland/Spanaway
Featured Sponsor: Children and all ages shows at the Pierce College Science Dome/planetarium Children’s show at 12:30 or 2PM; all ages at 3:15. The children’s show is shorter and interactive and now suitable for ages 3-12! Do bring cash or get your tickets in advance. This is a Great outing-especially on a rainy day, as it’s all indoors!
AMC Sensory Friendly film day with Exceptional Families Network AMC theaters offer sensory friendly showings of family movies with the lights up, the sound low, and kids free to be themselves. Attend this showing and meet other parents of kids with special needs from the EFN. Not near you? Most AMC theaters participate in this program select Saturdays. Call yours to check. You *Should* check out EFN if you are parenting a child with special needs. They do all kinds of great things for kids and grown ups!
Bilingual Block Play at the Parkland/Spanaway Library 10-11:30
Today’s session is in Mandarin and English. Open to all; building enforces key math and literacy skills.
Museum of Flight: Flying Gizmo Show at the Lakewood Library 2PM
Discover the science and history of flight through flying toys and models. Seattle’s Museum of Flight brings kites, parachutes, gliders, stomp rockets and other fabulous flyers. No registration required. The library’s used book sale is also going on today from 10AM-4:30. Bring your own bag or buy one for a buck.
Unicorn rides at Jozee Rooz Indoor Petting Zoo. Petting zoo admission, photos, etc…is separate. Yes, it all kind of adds up, but it is Adorable, your animal lovers will have a ball, and it’s indoors! No, it’s not a real unicorn. 🙂
Olympia area
Arbor Day at Priest Point Park kids’ scavenger hunt, guided walks, stewardship opportunities, and more
OFS Kids Club Free showing of Fantastic Mr. Fox for kids 12 and under. General admission is 8.00/5.00 for members
Visit the LOTT Wet Science Center and learn about kite flying today. Make a, “Frustration free flyer.” Free
Gig Harbor/Kitsap
Family Story Time at the Key Center Library 11AM stories, rhymes, singing, and finger play for families with young children
Any weekend fun: Your Michaels does usually do the craft. You can check out the touch tanks at the Skansie Visitor’s Center, see what’s going on at Discovery Village, or visit one of your great parks or trails.
Sunday
Meet the Daffodil Court at the South Hill Mall Join the princesses for stories, crafts, posters, and fun! Look for them near the center court/play area
“Caring Bunny,” at the Tacoma Mall Special Easter Bunny time for children with sensory issues and other special needs. You do need to register for your time in advance
Caspar Babypants at Tumwater High School 5.00 tickets to see the popular kindie rocker!
Know something great I missed? Want publicity for your group or advertising for your family friendly business? Just let me know!
Are you on Spring Break? If you’re staying local and need some staycation ideas, never fear! We’ll have a great, big Spring Break guide for you later this week. We also have a Just Between Friends giveaway coming up. Make sure you’re following the site so you don’t miss any of it!
Is someone at your house sniffling and sneezing? Yep, it’s that time of year. Today our sponsors at Lakewood Pediatrics explain the differences between types of allergies, how to know if it’s an allergy or a cold, and common treatment options.
As always, this post should not be substituted for actual medical advice, and we remind you that you are responsible for your family’s health decisions. The board certified physicians at Lakewood Pediatrics do have openings for new patients, and they would be glad to help you come up with a plan for the allergy sufferers in your house!
Normally at this time of year we start to be bothered by spring time allergies. This year, I think we are at least a couple weeks off, but never fear, allergy season will be here soon. Allergic Rhinitis is a condition suffered by many and comes in several forms. It is important to determine whether an allergy is a seasonal or year round allergy, because the treatment is a little different for each type.
Most people with seasonal allergies start having sneezing, stuffy nose, and sometimes itchy eyes in early spring, and these symptoms last until mid or late summer. A person might be sensitive to trees or grasses. Symptoms are highest when this plant is doing its thing, and get better when that season is over. They usually notice that their symptoms are worse when they are outside. You might be allergic to one or several plants, and when these are not around, you are fine. You have probably noticed a pattern that these symptoms happen every year at the same time. Most with seasonal allergies do fine with a daily antihistamine like Loratidine (Claritin), Cetirizine (Zyrtec) or Fexofenidine (Allegra). Avoidance of the allergen is usually not practical, and we want everyone to be outside having fun!
Perennial, or year round allergies, are allergies to things like dust and pet hair. With respect to perennial allergies, avoidance is a first step in management. Steps are taken to reduce exposure to dust, and if you know that you react to a cat or dog, then avoiding contact might be a consideration. If avoidance is not possible or practical, then preventative treatments are recommended. These usually take the form of nasal sprays such as Fluticasone (Flonase).
It is important to mention that viruses that cause colds are often mistaken for allergies. Colds usually come out of nowhere, might be associated with a little fever, usually have more of a runny nose and sometimes cough, and go away in 1 – 2 weeks. People with colds usually feel sicker than those with allergies. Allergies are associated more with sneezing and stuffiness, and itchy nose and eyes. Colds usually don’t respond well to allergy medications. Allergies are connected to exposure to the thing you are allergic to; if you are allergic to grass, then your symptoms reliably show up when you are around that grass. Colds do not seem to be connected to anything and usually happen in winter.
If your symptoms don’t seem to be getting better with the remedies mentioned above, be sure to see your doctor. A lot of money can be saved by getting generic forms of the allergy medications. Decongestant nasal sprays such as Afrin are not recommended. If the person with allergies is a child, you will want to consult your doctor before using any medicines or treatment.
Disclosure: This is a sponsored post with text provided by the physicians at Lakewood Pediatrics. If you have a child with allergies, or you suspect your child may have a seasonal allergy, you should consult your pediatrician. If you don’t have one or are thinking of making a change, the team at Lakewood Pediatrics invites you to consider one of their board certified physicians. You can head here for easy contact information or call 253 581 2111. Their offices are convenient to Fircrest, UP, Dupont, Lakewood, and the greater area. Please do tell them, “Thanks,” for sponsoring Sounds Fun Mom.
Did you miss the first Read With A Princess event?
If so, don’t worry!
The Daffodil Princesses will be back for free events at Tacoma and Pierce County Libraries on Saturday, April 1st.
Mark your calendar now, so you don’t miss out. These are free, drop in events. Princesses from the Daffodil Festival read with children and will be glad to pose for pictures. The Princesses are chosen based on qualities like academic achievement and service to others; they’re wonderful role models and so much more than girls in pretty dresses. Read on for the complete schedule of story times with the princesses! [Read more…]
If you’re one of our readers near Parkland/Spanaway or the greater area, you’ll be glad to know there is a new place to take the kids.
Yep, the best thing about this new playground is its location in an area that definitely needs more fun spots for families. My pal, Barb, checked it out with her kids and sent in this review (note the important caution about the creek).
Mayfair Playfield is a 4-acre neighborhood playfield that features a play structure added in September of 2016. The play structure has 2 slides, climbing spaces, monkey bars, and a spinning pole. There is also a freestanding large web swing.
The park has at least 12 picnic tables with most located close to the play structure and a few placed further out under some trees for a shady, more private option. There was also a large pile of sand that, while not contained in a sandbox, was more than enough to spark creative play and digging for my kiddo.
The field itself is large enough to host a friendly game of football or soccer without bothering play at the play structure.
North Fork Clover Creek runs along the northern border of the park. While this is a lovely feature, there is no fence along that side of the park so this would not be a good place to bring any kiddos that might like to wander. At the time of our visit the water was running quite quickly and was too deep to wade in.
Pets are allowed but must be leashed and picked up after. Parking was very limited with only 3 spaces, one of which was a handicap space. You may be able to find parking in the neighborhood surrounding the park.
A neighborhood group, Mayfair Dream Project helped make the playground a reality and posts regular park updates. They have an Easter egg hunt coming up! You can get the park address and directions at the Pierce County website.
We’ll be curious to see if the creek becomes suitable for wading or play in the summer. Right now, Barb said it was up to her waist/hips and running fast, so definitely don’t take kids here unless you can closely supervise them. I suspect it’s unusually high with all the rain. If you’ve checked this one out, let us know! Been to a playground we haven’t featured yet? Send me an email or leave a comment. We’d love to feature your review.