Here’s our weekly guide to what’s fun this weekend just for Tacoma and South Sound area families. Lots of free in our list this week, too! As always, we’ve provided links so you can confirm details before you head out. We love to hear what you find to do!
Archives for November 2018
Meet TypeTastic For Schools
I absolutely love that we have so many teachers and educators among our readers. I also love when I find products I believe in to share with you, which is why I said, “Yes!” right away when TypingMaster asked if I’d be interested in working with them again to tell you about the launch of the new school edition of TypeTastic, their amazing keyboarding program.
I got to try out the home version with my own son, and I knew right away it would be great for schools, too. I think most of you know I was a teacher before I ever started this site!
The TypeTastic Difference
TypeTastic is different than other typing programs. It utilizes a unique, color coded keyboard visual and fun games that get children correctly using both hands right away. Kids can get faster and better at typing in less time with TypingMaster!
My own kiddo has dysgraphia, which is a fancy way of saying that writing is hard for him. I was so impressed with how quickly he learned with this program, and he loved the game play!
A Free Kickstart is available through the TypeTastic website, along with a selection of complimentary games to help K–5 students to get familiar with the keyboard. You can check out that free Kickstart option here!
Details for Your Principal
Need to convince your administrators? You’ll be glad to know TypeTastic is a great deal, and it was developed with schools in mind.
TypeTastic School Edition includes an entire K-12 keyboarding curriculum with more than 400 fun keyboarding activities and awesome tools for teachers.
TypeTastic School Edition works on every device without apps or plugins. The program supports single sign-on, and it can be integrated using Active Directory Federation Services (SAML 2.0).
TypeTastic School Edition is available at prices starting from $99 a year for a class of 40.
Get Your Free Trial
In addition to Free Kickstart games, TypeTastic offers an exclusive 60-day access to the School Edition where you can try out the Teacher Dashboard and the entire K-12 keyboarding curriculum. I’d love to hear how fast your students learn with TypeTastic!
Disclosure: This post was sponsored by the innovators at
South Sound Weekend Kids’ Calendar: Family Fun and Things to Do November 9th, 10th, and 11th
Things to Do With the Kids Around Tacoma, Auburn, Pierce and South King Counties, plus Olympia, this weekend!
Note from SFM: This is our list of weekend events! If you are looking specifically for Veterans Day observances or free admission offers for Veterans, please check back for that updated list later today.
This list has things to do with the kids all three days this weekend!
Friday
Let’s Play Show at Olympia Family Theater
Let’s Play are dynamic, interactive shows that are performed in the lobby. They are between 20-35 minutes in length and perfect for the very youngest of audience members- toddlers, preschoolers and up. Giggles guaranteed! 10AM Friday, Saturday, and Sunday It’s Stone Soup. 5.00 cash at the door
Author and Illustrator Wendy Wahman will be at the Orting Library 2:30pm – 3:30pm An all ages, interactive talk with the author and illustrator of “Don’t Lick the Dog,” and “A Cat Like That.” Wendy will draw, read, and show you the fun of being an author!
Join TPL library staff at the Kobetich branch on Fridays from 3:30 pm – 5:00 pm for a fun activity! Activities will vary each week, but will consist of Family Game Days, S.T.E.M. activities, crafts, and more!
Just Between Friends event in Olympia
It’s Here! Another HUGE JBF Olympia Kids Consignment Event is right around the corner. Name brand items at a 50-90% savings compared to retail and it’s all under one roof in the Vacant Sport Authority in Cooper Point Marketplace, near the Capital Mall in Olympia. More than 30,000 square feet of bargains on kids’ clothing, gear, toys, and more! Free admission ticket at the link. Also Saturday and Sunday
Rogers High School presents Seussical the Musical Fun for all ages! Also Saturday
Saturday
All Over
Storytime at Barnes and Noble stores Most area stores do a free, weekly storytime at 11AM; however, we do suggest calling yours to confirm first, as we have found participation to be inconsistent. It’s Juno Valentine and The Magical Shoes at most stores today.
Crafts at Michael’s Santa themed crafts. 2.00/5.00 for 30 minute session, depending on age and craft 10-12; supplies included
South King County
Presented by Professor Hieronymus Payne. All ages, ages 8 and younger with adult. Come for a magic show inspired by the characters and stories by J.K. Rowling, as the Professor guides all the lucky “first year” students through their orientation to the Wizarding world.
Veterans Day Parade in Auburn-It’s the largest west of the Mississippi! Great event to take the kids to.
Visit the Highline Mast Aquarium at Redondo Small but Free and has touch tanks where kids can feel sea creatures. This evening they also have a special event: Squid O Rama!
Puyallup/Greater Pierce County
Bubbles, Volcanoes & Balloons Workshop at the Graham Library 10:30-11:30 Discover scientific laws through fun experiments including floating eggs, rocket balloons, effervescent bubbles, a baking soda volcano, dancing raisins and foil boats.
Movie Matinee in Fife 2-4PM Contact the help desk for the title!
Won’t You Be My Neighbor? at the Puyallup Public Library Screening of Won’t You Be My Neighbor? (PG-13), a documentary exploring the life, lessons, and legacy of iconic children’s television host, Fred Rogers. Make toys for shelter animals during the show (supplies provided by the library). Toys and donations will go to the event partner, Sunny Skies Animal Rescue. *Recommended for 8 and up
Visit the North Pole at the fair. Get photos taken or just play! Photos require a reservation.
Santa arrival at the South Hill Mall
Home for the Holidays crafting event at Ben Franklin
Christmas Open House in Downtown Sumner I think this is mostly a shopping event, but it should have a festive atmosphere.
Tacoma/South Tacoma
PBS Playdate at the Children’s Museum
The Children’s Museum of Tacoma is proud to partner with KBTC to provide a PBS Playdate one Saturday a month from 10-11:30 am. The event does not require registration and is free. It’s a Sesame Street theme today.
Craft Saturday at Job Carr Cabin
Drop by Job Carr Cabin Museum for a monthly Craft Saturday event. Activities are designed for children ages 3-9 and their families. Games theme today! Admission to the Museum and all events are “pay as you can.”
Neighborhood Toy Store Day at Teaching Toys and Books
Every child who attends will get a free toy and proceeds from the day’s sales will go to the local Ready Set Read program offered by Communities in Schools.
Family nature walk at McKinley Park
Naturalists lead free nature walks in area parks. Advance registration is now required; perfect for ages 3 and up; not suitable for strollers
Grand Opening of The Curious Bear Toy and Bookshop Yes! A new independent toy store in Fircrest! We absolutely adore the owner, and are so excited for this. Paper Luxe, their original store, will also be having a celebration at the same time.
Mini Sessions with Santa from Illusions of Grandeur Need a more private, less drama Santa visit? Our talented friend with Illusions of Grandeur is offering holiday mini sessions with and without the big guy this Saturday.
The Falconer – John Prucich will be at the University Place Library 2-3pm Join licensed falconer, John Prucich, as we learn about falconry featuring live birds of prey.
Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro
Children and all ages shows at the Science Dome presentations and shows on the overhead dome at the area’s only indoor, digital planetarium. This is really Such a great outing on a rainy day, guys, and super affordable, too!
Fiddler in the Forest Puppet Show – Presented by Heidi Larsen (Idea Hatch: STEAM for Kids) at the Tillicum Library 2:00pm – 2:45pm
Enjoy a shadow puppet show and make your own shadow puppets.
Olympia/Lacey/Beyond
Let’s Play Show at Olympia Family Theater
Let’s Play are dynamic, interactive shows that are performed in the lobby. They are between 20-35 minutes in length and perfect for the very youngest of audience members- toddlers, preschoolers and up. Giggles guaranteed! 10AM Friday, Saturday, and Sunday It’s Stone Soup. 5.00 cash at the door
Rain themed activities at the Wet Science Center Admission and activities are free
Kids Club movie at Capitol Theater It’s an animated film festival movie today. I believe kids under 12 are 5.00. Link has more details on the title and tickets.
Kennedy Creek Salmon Trail The trail, featuring wild chum salmon, is free for visitors. Spot salmon returning to spawn with the help of trained docents. Do wear your boots! There is more information for visitors here.
Visit the South Sound Estuarium interactive marine discovery! Open 11-4 weekends at their new location.
Gig Harbor/Kitsap
Winter Warm-up Holiday Crafts Fair at the Key Peninsula Civic Center 9 am – 5 pm. Santa arrives at 1. shopping, entertainment, food for purchase, and other festive fun.
Neighborhood Toy Store Day at Teaching Toys and Books
Every child who attends will get a free toy and proceeds from the day’s sales will go to the local Ready Set Read program offered by Communities in Schools. Karen Robbins, author of the Think! series, will be signing her books and crafting with kids.
Sunday
Note from SFM: If you are looking specifically for a Veterans Day Observance, please check the site later this weekend for a round up of those.
All Over
Free Day at Washington State Parks and National Parks!
Tacoma/Pierce County
Boy Scout Troop 282 Veterans Day Ceremony at Skansie Park in Gig Harbor November 11th 2018 | 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
The program consists of a presentation of historic American flags, a traditional honor guard rifle salute, a guest speaker and refreshments after the ceremony. A special invitation goes out to all of our local veterans to join us and be recognized.
Olympia
Let’s Play Show at Olympia Family Theater
Let’s Play are dynamic, interactive shows that are performed in the lobby. They are between 20-35 minutes in length and perfect for the very youngest of audience members- toddlers, preschoolers and up. Giggles guaranteed! 10AM Friday, Saturday, and Sunday It’s Stone Soup. 5.00 cash at the door
Just Between Friends event in Olympia
It’s Here! Another HUGE JBF Olympia Kids Consignment Event is right around the corner. Name brand items at a 50-90% savings compared to retail and it’s all under one roof in the Vacant Sport Authority in Cooper Point Marketplace, near the Capital Mall in Olympia. More than 30,000 square feet of bargains on kids’ clothing, gear, toys, and more! Free admission ticket at the link. Last day-many items half off
Visit the South Sound Estuarium interactive marine discovery! Open 11-4 weekends at their new location.
As always, if you know something we missed or you’d like publicity or advertising for your group, get in touch via soundsfunmom@gmail.com.
If you use and love this list you can help us keep bringing it to you by mentioning Sounds Fun Mom to the places and businesses you visit. Thanks so much for doing that!
New here? I’d love to have you use the buttons at the top to join us on the Facebook page, follow me on Twitter, or subscribe to my emails so you don’t miss a thing.
South Sound Weekend Kids’ Calendar: Family Fun and Things to Do November 2nd, 3rd, and 4th
Things to do With Kids Around South King County, Pierce County, Tacoma and Beyond This Weekend
We have an amazing list of fun things to do with the kids this weekend, including tons of free things to do around Tacoma, Puyallup, Gig Harbor, Olympia, Kent….well, you get the idea! We also have the details on big events and everything family friendly happening in the 253 this weekend. You won’t find a more complete list of South Sound family fun.
Dia de Los Muertos – A Cultural Celebration of Remembrance at the Sumner Library 6:30-8:30 Pierce County Library celebrates this Mexican tradition (and its Mexican-American popularity) with cultural stories, music, and sugar skull decorating.
Seussical the Musical by Rogers High School Fun with familiar characters for all ages. Also Saturday and some additional days next week
The Velveteen Rabbit at the Lakewood Playhouse Also Saturday and Sunday
Free first Friday night at the Hands-On Children’s Museum in Olympia
Join the HOCM the first Friday of each month for special activities from 5-9PM. Admission is free, though a suggested donation of 5.00/family will help support programs. Fall wonders theme tonight
Saturday
All Over
Free kids’ workshop at Home Depot stores. It’s a military appreciation helicopter. You’re asked to register in advance for these popular, free building workshops for kids. You may have to select your store before you see the option to register.
Storytime at Barnes and Noble stores Most area stores do a free, weekly storytime at 11AM; however, we do suggest calling yours to confirm first, as we have found participation to be inconsistent. It’s How The Grinch Stole Christmas today.
Crafts at Michael’s Kids can make Christmas tree themed projects today. It’s 2.00 or 5.00 depending on age/craft for 30 minute sessions.
South King County
Free Kids’ Art Project at Rusty Raven
Reading with Rover at Federal Way 320th
Shadow Lake Bog hosts Halloween crafts, games, treats, and a spooky celebration. Family friendly
Visit the Highline Mast Aquarium at Redondo Small but Free and has touch tanks where kids can feel sea creatures.
Puyallup/Greater Pierce County
Seussical the Musical by Rogers High School Fun with familiar characters for all ages.
Friends of South Hill Library Fall Book Sale – Friends members pre-sale 9-10 a.m. $5 bag sale 2-4 p.m. Gently used books and media at great prices. Proceeds help support library programs and services.
Pierce County MakerFest at the Washington State Fair Events Center
Make. Fix. Do. A free, all ages celebration of DIY culture. Located in the AgriPlex. Enter at the Green Gate. 10-3
Note from SFM: There are also lots of hands on activities for kids. Last time we went Henry got to disassemble a computer, experiment with a wind tunnel, make a button, meet a Dalek, and more! It’s a great event!
Friends of Summit Library Book Sale 10:00am – 4:00pm Support the Friends of Summit Library at this special 1-day only sale. Watch for special offers and prices later in the afternoon.
Tacoma/South Tacoma
Family nature walk at Titlow Park
Join volunteer naturalists for free walks in Tacoma parks. You are now asked to register. Not suitable for strollers; fun for ages 3 and up. 10AM
Coloring and Cookies at the Swasey Library10AM
Play and Grow Storytime at Wheelock10:30
The Pod Works Anniversary Market and More
Join The Pod Works in celebrating a year of growing together in motherhood and business! Register (free!) to attend this free, family-friendly event featuring a full line-up of activities and treats. Swag, too!
Polar Bear Awareness Weekend at the Point Defiance Zoo
Discover the amazing world of polar bears, watch them get special treats, test your knowledge of polar bear adaptations, and learn how to help protect polar bear habitat in the wild. Included with admission. SFM suggests investing in an annual pass unless you can take advantage of free days for City of Tacoma residents-Sunday is the next one!
Vendors, photo ops. with favorite characters in costumes, panels and much more fun for your fan of comics or geekery. My kiddo has been counting down the days! Saturday and Sunday
Nature Yoga at the Tacoma Nature Center-link has details on registration and fees
How I Became a Pirate at Tacoma Musical Playhouse Two shows Saturday; one Sunday Last weekend; looks super cute!
Tacoma Refugee Choir performance Free, family friendly
Children and all ages shows at the Science Dome presentations and shows on the overhead dome at the area’s only indoor, digital planetarium.
The Velveteen Rabbit at the Lakewood Playhouse Also Sunday
Olympia/Lacey/Beyond
Family story time at the Olympia Library
Friends of the Yelm Library book sale
Kennedy Creek Salmon Trail The trail, featuring wild chum salmon, is free for visitors. Spot salmon returning to spawn with the help of trained docents. Do wear your boots! Opening day. There is more information for visitors here.
Visit the South Sound Estuarium interactive marine discovery! Open 11-4 weekends at their new location.
Visit the LOTT Wet Science Center The center is free and hosts special activities every Saturday. Oly Outdoors theme today.
Tales Told In Ten at Olympia Family Theater
Olympia Family Theater is hosting our second annual 10-minute play festival. Each performance will feature six 10-minute plays. Tickets are 10.00
Gig Harbor/Kitsap
Peer into the night with Harbor Wild Watch
Sunday
South King County
Free Lego Build at Learning Express Toys
Tacoma/Pierce County
Dia de los Muertos at the Tacoma Arts Museum!
This free community event includes:
– 30+ community altars
– Traditional Aztec dancers
– Sand tapete
– Art-making
– Traditional food
– Art vendors
– Performances
… and more!
Fall Food and Crafts Bazaar at Tacoma Buddhist Temple
Free day at the Point Defiance Zoo for City of Tacoma residents photo id and proof of residence required
How I Became a Pirate at Tacoma Musical Playhouse Two shows Saturday; one Sunday Last weekend; looks super cute!
The Velveteen Rabbit at the Lakewood Playhouse Also Saturday and Sunday
Polar Bear Awareness Weekend at the Point Defiance Zoo
Discover the amazing world of polar bears, watch them get special treats, test your knowledge of polar bear adaptations, and learn how to help protect polar bear habitat in the wild. Included with admission. SFM suggests investing in an annual pass unless you can take advantage of free days for City of Tacoma residents-today is one!
Vendors, photo ops. with favorite characters in costumes, panels and much more fun for your fan of comics or geekery. My kiddo has been counting down the days! Saturday and Sunday
Olympia
Visit the South Sound Estuarium interactive marine discovery! Open 11-4 weekends at their new location.
Tales Told In Ten at Olympia Family Theater
Olympia Family Theater is hosting our second annual 10-minute play festival. Each performance will feature six 10-minute plays. Tickets are 10.00
As always, if you know something we missed or you’d like publicity or advertising for your group, get in touch via soundsfunmom@gmail.com.
If you use and love this list you can help us keep bringing it to you by mentioning Sounds Fun Mom to the places and businesses you visit. Thanks so much for doing that!
New here? I’d love to have you use the buttons at the top to join us on the Facebook page, follow me on Twitter, or subscribe to my emails so you don’t miss a thing.