Every other Wednesday at noon, local experts from washingtonpost.com share their best bets for arts and entertainment options for kids and their families. Our group specializes in local dining, museum, sports and recreations, day trips, children's theaters and the special events that keep life in metropolitan Washington interesting.
We're happy to answer questions, but we need to hear from you too. Tell us about
your favorite public swimming pool, a movie that wowed your family, a toy shop with
a "do touch" policy, or a restaurant where pizza is as welcome on the floor as it is on
the plate. This is an hour for kids of all ages: So if you have teenagers who need a
night out without you -- or vice versa -- ask away. Together we can fill our calendars
with memorable activities.
Our "With Kids" editor hosts each discussion, but the entire group will be sitting at the kids' table. If you need more ideas, see KidsPost and the Entertainment Guide.
The transcript follows.
Editor's Note: Washingtonpost.com moderators retain editorial control over Live Online discussions and choose the most relevant questions for guests and hosts; guests and hosts can decline to answer questions.
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The Kids' Table:
It's not every other Wednesday at noon that I (Vicki) get to call your attention to a family event at Iota; but the little club (and that's important to know so you get there early to claim space) has an event for families Sunday at 3: Ralph's
World. If you need a plan B in the neighborhood, there's the Cambodian Heritage Festival. Of course, this means your Friday needs to be a fair day, because Saturday has to be free for peach patrol. Before you think I've missed my calling as the social director on the good ship Lollipop, I'll let you get in your questions and ideas at the Kids' Table. The good company you're in today includes Kate, Anne, Matt, Maura and Lynette.
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Vienna Va.:
My daughter has a birthday next week. She will become 5 years old. I want to make it special for her and her friends. Any suggestions?
The Kids' Table: Here's some of our favorite birthday party ideas if you want a Big Deal birthday. Some of these can get pricy, though. Especially in August, a sprinklers and a hose can make for a fun backyard party. How about a water balloon toss and beach pail (filled with water) relay games? Decorate your own cupcakes and call it a splashing success. -- Anne
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Riverdale, Md.:
My 3-year-old loves birds. Are there any aviaries nearby or on the East Coast?
The Kids' Table: Hi Riverdale. You can start, of course, with the National Zoo's bird exhibits. There aren't any other aviaries available to the public in this area that I (Lynette) can find (chatters? If you know of any please chime in). However, there are a number of active birding groups in this area that offer field trips and other birding opportunities. In your area why don't you try the Southern Maryland Audubon Society. If you don't think they have anything appropriate for your 3-year-old, you might see if Rescue Me a bird sanctuary in Ark, Va., allows visitors. The phone number is 804-693-5997. Thanks.
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Greenbelt, Md.:
When is the train museum in Baltimore supposed to re-open? I heard it is wonderful for children. By the way, the train exhibit in Aspen Hill has vacated and is in the midst of finding a new location.
The Kids' Table: Hi, Greenbelt. For those who are unaware, the B&O Railroad Museum suffered severe damage in our last winter storms. The museum will be closed through the end of 2003, at least. Find updates -- photos included -- right here.
And thanks for the tip on Aspen HIll. -- Maura
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Boyds, Md.:
I am taking my daughters (age 2 and 4) to a Washington Mystics game this Sunday afternoon and was wondering if anyone knows of a fun and kid-friendly restaurant near the MCI Center.
The Kids' Table: Hi Boyds,
What fun. Enjoy the game. Your best bet is probably the Austin Grill a block or two down Seventh Street from the MCI. It's casual Tex-Mex with a varied menu, including options just for kids. If Mexican isn't your thing, there are burgers and more at the District ChopHouse and Brewery. There are of course Nick & Stef's Steakhouse and the F Street Sports Bar inside the MCI, but they're a bit pricier -- so it also depends on your budget. Maybe some other chatters can share their experiences. Anyone?
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Fairfax Va.:
Are there any Memorial Day Parades in Northern VA? How do I find out about them?
The Kids' Table: Hi Fairfax, We are entering Labor Day events into our database at this very moment. Here's the list of the Labor Day events that we have listed so far. They're all concerts. The town of Herndon is also planning a Labor Day jazz festival and wine tasting from noon to 6 p.m. on the town green. The Maryland towns of Gaithersburg and Greenbelt will have Labor Day parades (watch the Entertainment Guide for details). Vienna is planning its annual festival the weekend of Sept. 4. Keep an eye on the above link for the next week or two for more details. Thanks.
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Arlington, Va.:
Hi! I love to read your Q&As. Thanks for the tips. I am fairly new to the area, and this year our 8-year-old daughter is going to be in extended day after school. But I would like to get her involved in a dance class or some other activity that would spark an interest in her. Are there any programs out there (and preferably in N. VA) that would actually pick up kids from school and either keep them until parental pick-up or ship them back to school? Also, can you or the train afficionado update me on all the best things to do with an almost-4 year old who is crazy for trains? Thanks.
The Kids' Table: Hi Arlington and welcome. After school classes are plentiful in your area but you're right: The "getting there and back" logistics can be complicated and expensive. I'm going to advise you (as Lynette advised me) to call the Arlington YMCA as it offers before and after school programs with pick-up and drop offs. Call 703-525-5420 or check the the Web site: http://www.ymcawashdc.org/. The programs include homework help, games and sports and other activities.
As for your 4-year-old with the one track mind, engineer an easy day trip to the Harpers Ferry Toy Train Museum and Joy Line Miniature Railroad. For more ideas, why don't we ask the group? What say you, group? -- Kate
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Train Mom:
Got a new train tidbit for everyone! We're submitting early because Train Boy has a brand new baby brother and we may be napping at noon.
Took a ride on the Walkersville Southern Railroad last Sunday (http://www.wsrr.org/). Walkersville is just a few miles north of Frederick, MD. They've been running the line since restoration in 1991. It runs on the old Pennsylvania Railroad line.
Very nice excursion. Kids under 3 years old are free. Children 3-12 are $3, Adults are $7. The round trip is about an hour, from Walkersville to almost into Frederick. The excursion features a restored bridge over the Monocacy River, along with some nice views of local farms. The diesel engine pulls the train out and pushes the train back. When we were there on Sunday, it was not crowded at all. But most important-- you can rent out a caboose for birthday parties! Don't know how much it costs though. They run May through October. The number to call (M-F only) is 1-877-363-WSRR.
The Kids' Table: Thanks, Train Mom. This might be the information Arlington Mom is looking for. Those caboose rentals run $100-$150, but you can find all the necessary information on the Web site.
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Del Ray, Va.:
My husband wants to take our 2-year-old to a petting zoo this weekend -- preferably one at a county fair, but any nice, clean pen of cuddly baby animals will do. Any recommendations?
The Kids' Table: Hi Del Ray. Here's a list of petting zoos in the area, including one at the Arlington County Fair. You might also enjoy Peach Day in the Country at Westmoreland Berry Farm in Oak Grove. There you can pet goats, pick your own blackberries and raspberries and enjoy the peaches.
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Bethesda, Md.:
Do you have a county fair/state fair listing? My son would love to see the animals and the like.
The Kids' Table: Hi Bethesda, I (Lynette) have a list of county fairs right here and here is a link to the story Lions and Tigers and Fairs, Oh My! that ran in last Friday's Weekend section. It offers tips on what's available to see and do at various area fairs. Enjoy.
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Alexandria -KellyF:
I am lucky enough to have my 2 1/2 year old godson for the weekend - where can I take him?? I was thinking about the Children's Museum, but is he old enough to enjoy it? I remember going when I was a kid, but about 5- to 6-years-old and really enjoying it. What do you suggest?? Thanks!;!;
The Kids' Table: You might want to wait on the Childrens Museum and check out the Air and Space Museum, Natural History and, of course, the National Zoo. -- Maura
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Reston, Va.:
Hi!
I am taking tomorrow off for my son's birthday - he is going to be three and it is a rare treat for me to spend the day with him. I thought I would either take him to the zoo (weather permitting) or to see Finding Nemo (is this okay for a three year old - he just recently starting having nightmares!). Any other fun suggestions for a morning activity for me and my three year old?
Thanks!
The Kids' Table: Hi Reston,
Happy Birthday to your son.
"Finding Nemo" is a great movie that you'd probably like more than your son. But I would have to put up a caution flag with a 3-year-old. In typical Disney fashion, there is the death of a mother as well as a number of scary moments involving sharks, jellyfish and aquarium machinery.
The Family Filmgoer wrote: "If parents take kids under 6 (and "Finding Nemo" is their first big theatrical film), the children could get quite scared at times and need a lobby break. The vivid animation, despite its Sweet Tart colors, will look very real."
Another suggestion would be to go to the Build-A-Bear Workshop at the Tysons Mall where he can select a bear, stuff it, watch it be sewn and name it. There is also a Rainforest Cafe restaurant, which opens at 11 a.m.
Enjoy! Matt
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Washington DC:
What are some things to do/places to go on a weekend that are interesting and fun for grown-ups, and entertaining for a 20 month old boy at the same time?
The Kids' Table: This weekend looks like it's going to be muggy with a chance of thunderstorms so a "favorite" like a morning at Oxon Hill Farm Park (a miniature working farm), followed by bbq-to-go from Ella's or a long stroll around the grounds and greenhouses of the National Arboretum may be out. Perhaps you'd all enjoy the U.S. Botanic Garden (air-conditioned in parts) and a walk around Eastern Market. Vendors offer lots for your little boy to see, taste, smell and talk about -- crab cakes from Market Lunch for the grown-ups. Easily reached by Metro.
If you're looking for a trip outside of the city, what about Saturday lunch at Eden Center, a collective of restaurants, supermarkets, video stores, jewelers at Severn Corners in Falls Church. The Eden Center caters to a largely Vietnamese audience. You can all enjoy an inexpensive lunch at Huong Que (Four Sisters) where noodles for your baby may just appear. Their food and service are warm. Small luxuries like mangoes and chili oils are abundant and frequently inexpensive inside the nearby Eden Supermarket. I get a kick out of walking the aisles and I hope you do, too. -- Kate
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Arlington Va.:
Hi! I am turning 31 this weekend and would like to go to a vineyard for a relaxing picnic or out to dinner somewhere in the country. We have a 3-year-old and a 7-week-old and will be bringing friends with the same age children. Is there someplace where kids have space and parents can enjoy themselves that`s about an hour away at most from D.C.? Thanks for your help, any other ideas would be appreciated also.
The Kids' Table: Happy birthday, Arlington! For you, Loudoun County vineyards yield a quick trip to the countryside. And here's an idea if you want to start your birthday weekend early: Lawn tickets are still available for Mary Chapin Carpenter tonight at Wolf Trap. You can get a picnic dinner and glass of wine there, or bring your own. Readers, any other suggestions? -- Anne
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Falls Church, Va.:
I am looking for free activities in the Tysons area for my 9 1/2 mo. old. Any suggestions?
The Kids' Table: Hi Falls Church. The Tysons-Pimmit Regional Library at 7584 Leesburg Pike (phone 703-790-8088) has story time at noon on Wednesdays for ages 1-2 and their adults. Bring your own brown bag lunch. You might also try the Fairfax County Parks and Recreation Web site for other activities that will work for you. Do other chatters in the Tysons area have suggestions? Feel free to chime in.
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NC:
Can I make suggestion to parents who plan on taking their children to the Spy Museum? I was there on a weekday last week and it really seems more geared towards older children--like 10 or 12+. There is a lot of reading, a few interactive activities, but based on what I saw, a lot of younger children were bored by the displays and were hyperactively running around. You could also easily spend 2 hours wandering through it and there aren't a huge number of "stop and sit down" places. Many parents were trying hard to interest the kids in the displays, or at least keep them from crashing into people, but there really is only so much that could be done.
It is a cool museum, no doubt, but my feet were stomped quite often, I had to read around children, and the few interactive activities were hogged. Parents looked harried, and kids got cranky. Again, not the kids fault--but parents should know that it is probably not the place for 7-years-olds.
The Kids' Table: Thanks, NC. I think you have a point. I certainly wouldn't recommend the Spy Museum for children younger than 9 or so. It is splashy and bright, but there's a lot to read and little place to sit. And the wait to get in can test anyone's patience -- young or old. -- Maura
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Birthday Party near Fairfax:
My daughter turns 7 this fall. Unfortunately, her b-day falls within 2 weeks of my due date for a new baby. I've already decided to throw the party a bit early. Now I'm looking for some ideas of something that won't require my constant movement (no Chucky Cheese!;) as a location for her party, along with indoors to avoid any weather related issues. I was thinking of a tea party at home, but she has some male friends she'll probably want to invite so I think I need to nix that one. Any suggestions in Fairfax?
The Kids' Table: Fairfax, of course boys and girls will enjoy a tea party, especially if you take some of the furniture out of the livingroom (NO LIFTING FOR YOU!), replace it with a big dressing-up box (feather boas, floppy hats, rubber boots), and have two dozen large cookies or cupcakes to decorate. Seven is still little enough to enjoy the special occasionness of a "party."
If the idea of DIY overwhelms this year, and we can all understand why, what about a lunch at Generous George's -- make-your-own pizza without a mechanical mouse. It's a happy, if dizzying spot and they do all the dishes. There's one in Springfield and one in Annandale. -- Kate
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Lorton, Va.:
Hi.
We are hosting two nephews this weekend. Add to my two boys and we will have a full house of 4 boys, ages 7, 8, 9 and 9. Thoughts on what to do IF they get bored?
Thanks.
The Kids' Table: You'll want the Prince William County Fair, of course, the best deal in local fairs. Admission includes parking, all rides and all the shows. Another idea in Manassas: the Splashdown Waterpark. -- Anne
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Fairfax, Va.:
Can you mention the best places to find shark's teeth? I would hate for it to be hit or miss, so please mention plentiful spots. Thanks.
The Kids' Table: Hi Fairfax. Here are two suggestions for you courtesy of host Vicki. If you're interested in collecting fossil teeth, this feature Grab a Piece of (Ancient) History can help you find the right places to look. And if you'd like more information about sharks, check out this story about the 'Shark Quest' exhibit at the National Aquarium in Baltimore.
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Oakton, Va.:
We did my 6-year-old's party at Michael's craft store in Vienna-- $30 to rent the room and then you decide with the Michael's employee what craft you want the kids to do. We decoupaged birdhouse jewelry boxes and made bead bracelets and it was $4 per child. The employee helped the kids with the crafts. We did the cake and presents there and no mess at home. The girls loved it.
The Kids' Table: Oakton, a craft store is a great idea for a party. And you're right, no clean up involved!
We had a party for my 8-year-old daughter at the CrayolaWorks at the Arundel Mills Mall in Maryland and had a similar experience. We then had dinner at Jillian's where the girls also got to play some games.
Some other suggestions for out-of-the-house parties are Build-A-Bear Workshops, which are a various malls in the area, and Port Discovery in Baltimore.
And many other public places also offer birthday packages: indoor pools, movie theaters, mini-golf courses, skating rinks and batting cages to name a few.
Thanks for the suggestion, Oakton! -- Matt
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Potomac, Md.:
I think the spy museum is a great place for kids. The crawling through air ducts and gadgets are cool for kids to look at. And, if you don't go through the whole historical museum part, and show them the ninjas and pidgeons, I think kids would find the spy museum real cool.
The Kids' Table: Thanks, Potomac. If younger ones are in tow, you could aim to attend during one of their family programs (last month it was a magician/spy). Also, for you city dwellers, check out their free admission for DC fifth graders. -- Maura
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Arlington, Va.:
Not sure which group needs to address this, but in the link to the Arlington County fair on the Entertainment page, the dates of Aug. 15-18 are named in the paragraph description (I believe those are last year's) and the link to the official Web site is wrong, it's arlingtoncountyfair.ORG, not .com. Just wanted to let you know. Can't wait for the fair!
The Kids' Table: Thanks for contacting us about this. We're correcting the information right now. The 2003 dates for the Arlington County Fair are Aug. 21-24.
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RE: Birthday Parties:
My 4-year-old had a lovely birthday party at Old Maryland Farm in Watkins Regional Park in Upper Marlboro. There's a large party room, and they have pony rides or hayrides for a very small extra charge. The kids fed the animals (feed included in the reasonable price), had lunch and pony rides. The staff was delightful. I never see this place mentioned, yet it's right off the Beltway.
The Kids' Table: Thanks for the update on Old Maryland Farm. We'll do our best to let everyone know it's 4-year-old tested and approved.
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Washington, D.C.:
For Arlington, who wanted to do a picnic at a vineyard this weekend: Check out Linganore Winecellars (www.linganore-wine.com), which is up by Mt. Airy in Maryland. Every month during the summer they have a festival with a different type of music. They are having one this weekend with "Bayou" music. You can bring chairs and a picnic and listen to music... and also try their wine! They have a petting zoo, pony rides and a playground for the kids. I have been before and had a great time. There is more info on their Web site.
The Kids' Table: Hi Washington and thanks so very much for the suggestion. Here's the link to the Web site you suggested and here's another link to our record for the Frisbee Dog Competition that takes place at the plantation on Aug. 23, in case anyone's interested. And thanks again Washington.
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montgomery village mom:
More choices for MCI: McDonalds right on the edge of MCI, Chipotle Grill next door. Down the street: Potbelly (sandwiches and milkshakes), Fuddruckers (burgers), and possibly Fado's (Irish food). Hope that helps!;
The Kids' Table: Hi, mvm . . . thanks for the been-there-done-that help.
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Fairfax, Va.:
Which Maryland Mall has the Spy Kids Hands on exhibit today?
The Kids' Table: Hmm, haven't heard about this -- not that it means it's not happening. I went to the movie's official Web site (spykids.com) and found no breadcrumbs. I called three major movie theaters in Maryland: the Egyptian 24 at Arundel Mills; Rockville 13 and Wheaton Plaza 11. All are showing the movie but no one had heard about a hands-on exhibit. In the words of the manager of the Egyptian, "Wow, sounds cool!" All "Spy Kids 3-D" patrons do get 3-D glasses. For cinemaniacs, it is showing with digital projection at the Loews Rio 18 in Gaithersburg (couldn't get through the phone tree to a human being).
Please, if you figure it out, drop us a line. -- Kate
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The Kids' Table:
With our summer days numbered (Weekend's 60
Days, 60 Parks feature is in the 40s now), there is no time to lose. I think
when we gather at the Kids' Table in two weeks -- at noon Wednesday, Aug. 20
-- our hot topic should be a fill-in-the-blank: "Summer Can't End Until _____"
By then I'll have my group-leader umbrella and whistle (one blow is everybody
into the pool; two, everybody out). Thanks for joining us today with your great
ideas and questions. Tweet! Tweet!
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