On Monday afternoon, inspired by the runners in the Boston Marathon, I started a Couch to 5K running program. When I got home after my first training session, I heard the terrible news of the tragedy at the marathon. At first, I thought about giving up on the 5K program. But then I made a completely different decision: Although I am in the worst shape of my life – I can’t even run a mile (seriously, but please don't judge) – I am going to start with a 5K, and then keep going all the way to next year’s Boston Marathon. Every race I run will be for all the people who are no longer able.
Races have always been a family affair for us. Over the years, my kids have done several fun runs and kids races while one of the adults in the family runs the “big race”. I plan to continue our tradition. If you’d like to give a race a try, either just for fun, or in honor of the Boston Marathon runners and their loved ones, take a look at my round up of upcoming family-friendly races in Massachusetts this spring.
You’ve spent three hours at the Boston Children's Museum exploring, dancing, climbing, banging and blowing, and now it’s time to fill those hungry bellies. There are a multitude of options for dining near the museum. We’ve narrowed down the best ones, plus bonus tips for adult-time munching, too.
I would love for my kids to have a sleepaway camp experience, but food is an issue – a big one. We have multiple intolerances and allergies, including nuts and gluten. I’ve done some research and found a few sleepaway camps where kids with food allergies can have a traditional camp experience without food worries (or feeling out of place). If you’re looking for peanut-, nut-, gluten-, or dairy- free camps, check out these places within a reasonable driving distance from Boston. Some of them also have Kosher, vegetarian, and vegan options too!
The kids have their baskets ready for the big community egg hunt, you’ve bought fancy outfits for their pictures with the Easter bunny (they look so adorable), and you’ve made plans for Easter brunch.
What about the egg hunt at home and the kids’ Easter baskets? Does the thought of stuffing them with candy and weathering the ensuing sugar high give you a headache? If you’re looking for some ideas for filling baskets and eggs without going overboard on the sweets, read on for basket themes, egg fillers and places in the Greater Boston area to get great little gifts.
Last week, we gave you a challenge: Spend 8 minutes each day, for 30 days, on a creative activity with your kids. If you’re like me, this isn’t easy. Then again, a challenge isn’t supposed to be easy, is it?
I’ve had to find creative ways to work creativity into my family’s hectic days, and I’ve discovered a wonderful outlet that achieves multiple goals – food art. From bento boxes to cakes you can draw on, there is no end to fun ways to get creative in the kitchen with your kids. Read on for some of my favorite ideas.
We're glad you're here at Mommy Poppins Boston, your free online resource for everything for families and kids in the greater Boston area. We'd love to hear from you with any questions or suggestions! — Tara and Audrey