Beltway Bambinos

(re) discover Washington DC through the eyes of your children

Winter camps and classes for kids in Washington, DC

Thanksgiving camps:

Nov. 25-27: Red Panda Art Camp
Extended workshops are designed for ages 3.5 to 10. Workshops run from 9:00am to 12:30pm, with an option to extend until 2:00pm. During these days off of school camp, art will be on! Join for a full day of sensory play and art exploration.

Nov. 25-27: HoopEd
Throughout the school year, HoopEd offers special, one to five-day sports camps for children, ages 5-13, who are out of school due to Federal holidays, parent-teacher conferences, professional development days and winter/spring break. Camps are held in the gyms and playgrounds of local area schools between the hours of 9:00am and 3:00pm with after care available until 5:30pm.

Nov. 27: Thanksgiving Break Ultimate Sports Camps at the St. James
Campers will get to experience all that The St. James has to offer, from basketball and rock climbing, to ice skating and splashing in our Waterpark. Campers should wear athletic clothes and sneakers, and pack a swimsuit and towel for the pool. Lunch is included in this 9am – 4pm session for 7-15 year olds

Nov. 27 & Nov. 29: Squash on Fire
School may be on break but Squash is always in session! Camps include drills, matchplay, strategy and fitness. Open to juniors between the ages of 9-18. Don’t miss the opportunity for your champion in the making to train with our world-renown coaches and to keep their squash skills sharp!

Winter camps:

Dec. 23 – Jan. 3: HoopEd Sports Camp

Dec. 23 – Dec. 31: Dynamite Gymnastics

Dec. 23 – 27 & Dec. 30 – Jan. 3: Anna Banana Art Camp

Dec. 27 & Dec. 30 :Red Panda Art Studio

Dec. 23 – Dec. 31: My Gym Bethesda & My Gym Potomac

Dec. 23 – Jan.1: Gymnastics Camp at Silver Stars

Dec. 23 – Jan. 2:  CREATE Arts Center

Dec. 26 – Dec. 31: KID Museum Day Camp

Dec. 26 – Dec. 30: Badlands Winter Camp

Dec. 26 – Dec. 31: Capitol Language Service

Dec. 30, Jan. 2 & 3: Squash on Fire

Winter classes:

Adventure Theatre: Musical theatre classes (technically Spring Semester) for grades K-5

Anna Banana Arts & Crafts: Art classes for 2-8 year olds

Edlavitch DCJCC: Offers child & caregiver classes as well as afternoon classes and camps

Imagination Stage: Theme-based classes for children ages 1 – 18

Just For Kids: A variety of sports classes for ages 2.5 – 9 years old

Montgomery County Recreation Department: An enormous variety of classes for all ages (don’t have to be a Montgomery Co resident to enroll)

My Gym Bethesda & My Gym Potomac: Winter sports, dance, ninja and mixed-sibling classes for kids ages 3 months – 10 years old

Red Panda Art Studio: Morning and after-school classes for ages 2-8

Silver Stars Gymnastics: Classes for children ages 18 months and up

Smithsonian National Zoo: Preschool and homeschool classes for children ages 6-10

Super Soccer Stars: Soccer for kids 12 months to 6 years old

Synetic Theater: Each Saturday morning class will have a theme/focus for kids grades K-12. All the games and activities will be geared around this theme. 

Tinkergarten: Outdoor classes for kids 6 months-8 years old, refer to a previous post we wrote for more insight

Quick Feet: Soccer for 2-7 year olds in DC, MD and VA

Parent groups:
Group for first and second time Moms PACE
Returning to work after maternity leave through Mindful Return
New Mom’s group at Lemon Tree
Meet-up Monday’s with Petite DC
A school for toddlers and parents/caregivers at Intown Playgroup

Indoor gyms:
My Gym Bethesda
Busy Bees
Magic Ground
Badlands
Gymboree
Kidville
Not your typical gym

Related posts:
Yoga with your Bambinos
Dance and gymnastics classes
Year-round classes

34+ ways to survive Daylight Savings in and around Washington, DC

Most of us dread that date in Fall that creeps up and turns our strict routine into havoc; Daylight Savings. For parents, it’s a few months where our time spent outdoors comes to a halt and we wonder how to occupy the remainder of the evening (that used to be so sunny) with our children. And contrary to popular belief, the answer is not an earlier bedtime. Let’s be honest, you can only put on an afternoon movie so many times. Here are a few ideas I’ve compiled from readers as well as my own DST adventures to help you get out of the house with your Bambino(s) this Fall & Winter. Don’t forget to check out our Indoor Fun Guide for even more options!  

Ideas for fun outside of your home:

1. Go for a dip at Wilson, Marie Reed or any of DC indoor swimming pools or sign up for swimming lessons at an indoor pool.

2. Bloombars has evening classes, events and performances.

3. Drop by a pet store to observe the animals and maybe see some dogs getting groomed.

4. DC Library holds late afternoon family programs and events. Reserve a room at a public library and have a play date with friends. DC Library is open until 9pm Mon-Thur.

5. Isn’t Target obvious?! (Try not to buy everything).

6. Grab a lane and try for a strike at Pinstripes or Bowlero. Dinner is served alongside bowling. Locations in Georgetown, Rockville & Bethesda.

7. Walk around Union Market, dining and shopping. Politics & Prose is now located here which is a bonus– get lost in a book or two.

8. Hotel lobbies can be fascinating, especially around the holidays. Plus, they have bathrooms and heat.

9. Get creative at Treehouse Atelier, Red Panda Art Studio, District Dabble Lab, Little Loft Art, Anna Banana or All Fired Up.

10. Child’s Play and Politics and Prose can be great places for your kids to check out new toys and books. Child’s Play has many toys out and welcome kids to play with them. Again, try not to buy everything =)

11. Go out to dinner at one of these DC restaurants that offer entertainment for kiddos.

12. Speaking of dinner, there are so many restaurants that offer KIDS EAT FREE throughout the week and weekend.

13. Grab a flashlight and go on an adventure walk. Bonus if you have time to create a scavenger hunt and if not check out these.

14. Check the bus route and take a random ride. All DC Circulator rides are $1. Metro is also a fun option!

15. Fairmont Hotel has a piano and a pretty garden, is fairly tolerant of children climbing up and down the stairs and enjoying the lobby’s holiday decorations.

16. Kennedy Center Millennium Stage has free, daily shows that begin at 6:00pm. Catch the show or just part of it, explore and walk the long foyer and look at the mirrors, ramps, etc. Be sure to take a look at the new addition; REACH. Go outside onto the terrace and watch the cars on the bridge or boats on the water.

17. Lace up those skates and go ice skate! (will update to 2019 soon)

18. Enroll in a winter class (will update to 2019 soon) or playgroup.

19. Dare I say, grocery shop….but my kids love making lists and my youngest loves pushing the cart while I pick up everything she knocks over with said cart. Bonus if you know of a store with a fun kid-car or kid-cart (Giant grocery stores are all I can think of).

20. Go see a movie! Splurge for some popcorn and a late bedtime.

21. Drop into a Pearachute class or event without committing to an entire session.

22. Happy Hour doesn’t have to wait until 5pm….Early dinner or apps (see #11 & #12).

23. Head to a Mall; head to the Apple store, food court or movie theatre. This Mall has a great family area. Chevy Chase Pavilion is a 3-story mall that will keep little kids attention with flashy lights and escalators and even has an underground tunnel that will take you across Wisconsin Ave. to more stores. Of course Tyson’s Corner is the mecca for shoppers but a trek for most of us.

24. Drop-in and play at Lemon Tree on Mondays-Thursdays from 1-5pm!
Register in advance for Open Play.

25. One of these indoor spaces is a great option but check their hours.

Ideas for fun in your home in case you can’t escape:

1. Bake or cook something with your Bambino(s). Get some ideas from Bistro Petite, Tiny Chefs and Together We Cook while you’re looking, sign your Bambino up for a cooking class.

2. Get bath paints or crayons and let your child get artsy and messy in the bath– bonus they can get clean while having fun. Bath bombs are also a hit especially these with surprises inside!

3. Buy this slime kit so you have it on hand! Make your own play doh or slime. While you’re at it, create a sensory box.

4. Arts and crafts can provide endless fun and messes (put your OCD tendencies aside). This is a great starter box that has plenty of supplies.

5. Put on a play, get out that old camcorder and record them– your iPhone will suffice too.

6. Download some educational apps on your device and set a timer.

7. Have your child help organize/fold socks when you’re doing laundry. My littlest loves to “wash” dishes; fill the sing with plenty of soap and give them a sponge or brush and have them wash those dishes that may have piled up.

8. Make a fort, add pillows and blankets and watch a movie, grab a flashlight and/or read stories.

9. Playdates help the time go by, (unless the kids don’t play together) and in that case you’d rather be doing one of the above mentioned activities.

Review of MOCO Movement Kids in Motion Class

Stefanie Harrington a local Mom of three, a personal friend and incredibly talented maternity, birth, newborn and family photographer recently visited MOCO Movement with her toddler and joined the Kids in Motion class.

This month, my daughter and I felt lucky to participate in the Kids in Motion class at the MOCO Movement Center located at 5268A Nicholson Lane, Rockville, MD. I wasn’t familiar with MOCO Movement Center so, in a nutshell, it offers engaging movement classes for children ages 6 months to 12 years, along with occupational therapy, physical therapy and speech therapy by licensed therapists. They offer world class therapy services in a fully inclusive environment, alongside a sibling or peer taking a sports or movement class.

When we walked in, we found lots of books and toys at the entrance, which were a fun distraction for my two-year-old as we took off our shoes and socks (adults may leave their socks on). Ms. Taffany, one of the enthusiastic class instructors, welcomed us into the large gym space, where we could start with some free play. The other kids seem to attend class regularly so they were familiar with the space and already happily playing with toys, sliding or jumping on the trampolines, while we settled in.

After free play, the kids followed along as Ms. Taffany led them through songs and different movements that were fun and age appropriate for the group. The instructors were really great about gently encouraging kids to participate – my daughter was a little unsure of herself while she explored, but Ms. Taffany quickly engaged her by showing her a small slide. My daughter also really enjoyed the music toys and the bubble dance at the end of class – so much so that she didn’t want to go home when the class was over… I was finally able to convince her to leave with me as the next class was starting by promising her that we would be back! Luckily there are several classes and times to choose from.

Classes offered at MOCO Movement:

MOCO Motion (Ages 3-12)
Participants use strength and balance on giant obstacle courses designed with over-sized blocks, tightrope-style lines, trampoline and suspension equipment to find novel and innovative ways to strengthen their bodies and push their limits. Trained instructors tailor classes to each child and help them acquire foundational skills such as jumping, skipping, climbing and running necessary to safely participate in a wide variety of physical activities in their daily lives.

Sports Fundamentals (Ages 3-12)
Prepping your child to get on the right track with a variety of sports. Each class focuses on the fundamental movement skills of each sport.

Move & Groove (Under age 5)
Music and movement class designed to encourage a child’s natural musical abilities in a safe, fun and supportive environment while exercising. Classes are divided into a class for children under two years of age and children ages two to five years old. Children, along with a parent or guardian, will be encouraged to sing, dance, climb on oversized blocks, roll down inclined mats, shake shakers, bang drums and toss scarves around. Instruments provided including castanets, triangles, guitar, boomwhackers, electric guitars, a drum kit, keyboard and many more. 

Kids in Motion (Ages 6 months-5 years)
Children and caregivers participate in early learning and preschool activities while having fun in our obstacle course inspired gym.  From circle time to the big adventure, our weekly themes incorporate movement, toy exploration and learning.  Infants, toddlers, and preschoolers participate in strength and balance activates to acquire functional skills such as crawling, walking, jumping and climbing and dancing.

Sporty Tots (Ages 2-5)
A movement class that focuses on foundational sports skills for toddlers. Introduction to ball skills (throwing, catching, kicking..), stick  handling within context of baseball, basketball, and soccer.

Related Post:
MOCO Movement offers therapy services in a fully inclusive environment

Port Discovery Children’s Museum + GIVEAWAY

Port Discovery Children’s Museum has updated their event listings and we’ve got the highlights for you:

  • Salute the Troops –  Free admission/discounts going on through January 1
  • Gingerbrick Decorating – Saturday, December 1 & Saturday, December 8
  • Dollar (or Less) Day – Sunday, December 9
  • Birthday Extravaganza Weekend (celebrating their 20th year of play) – Saturday, December 15 & Sunday, December 16
  • Winter Break Fun – December 22 – January 1
  • Noontime New Year – December 31
  • And a pretty special event that they’ll be announcing soon – taking place on January 1!

December 2018: Featured Exhibits:

The Adventures of MR. POTATO HEAD Exhibit
Open Now –  through January 21, 2018
Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children younger than two are admitted for free.

Have an out-of-this world silly adventure with MR. POTATO HEAD® when you explore The Adventures of MR. POTATO HEAD® exhibit, at Port Discovery September 22, 2018 through January 21, 2019! Travel the globe and have fun learning on a jungle safari, an archeological dig, under the sea and outer space. Crawl through a jungle cave, dig for treasure, go scuba diving, and command a space station as you think about all you can be and do! The Adventures of MR. POTATO HEAD® exhibit was created by the Betty Brinn Children’s Museum in collaboration with Hasbro. MR. POTATO HEAD® is a registered trademark of Hasbro, Inc. and is used with permission. © 2018 Hasbro. All rights reserved. The national exhibit tour is sponsored by the Northwestern Mutual Foundation, with additional support provided by Debra Altshul-Stark and Brian Stark, and the Greater Milwaukee Foundation. Locally sponsored by M&T Bank.

Special Offers:

Salute the Troops
November 1, 2018 – January 1, 2019
Free admission for active duty, veterans and retired military*

As part of the Salute the Troops Program, active duty, veterans and retired military receive free admission to Port Discovery Children’s Museum beginning November 11, 2018 through January 1, 2019. Guests of service members will receive $2.00 off general admission. Simply present valid military or veterans ID to take advantage of this offer.*
*Present valid Military ID, Veterans ID, State Driver’s License with Veterans Designation or Discharge Papers (photocopies acceptable) to redeem offer. One free admission per transaction. No other discounts, offers or passes may be applied within the same transaction. 

Thrifty Tuesdays & Thursdays
Admission is $10 on select Tuesday and Thursday afternoons
Visit for less! Visit Port Discovery on Tuesday and Thursdays from 1-4PM for just $10. That’s more than $5 off each general admission ticket! Enjoy hands-on, interactive exhibits and educational programs that spark imagination and learning in a place custom made for kids! (Promotion valid October 2, 2018 through Thursday, December 20, 2018) Excluded dates include: 11/6/18.

December 2018: Featured Events & Programs: 

Month-Long Birthday Celebration
Throughout December
Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children under two enter free

December marks Port Discovery’s 20th birthday. We’ve filled the month with fun, learning and lots of special events for visitors, members and groups to enjoy, including month-long birthday celebrations where children and caregivers can sign our giant birthday card, join in on fun birthday-themed activities (including painting giant cakes and photobooths), and more. We also will host a fun-filled Birthday Extravaganza weekend on Saturday, December 15 & Sunday, December 16, along with a party to remember on our actual birthday, Saturday, December 29th.

Healthy First Saturday & Gingerbrick Decorating
Saturday, December 1 | 10 AM – 5PM
Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children under two enter free.

Get the wiggles out as you learn about healthy activities and habits for your little one – and your entire family! Dance, sing and get active with Faza Fam Family Jam. Learn about science at our STEM Station, and help Port Discovery kick-off birthday celebrations in birthday-themed Pop-Up Art stations and Mother Goose on the Loose® programs. Plus, join in a fun holiday tradition as you decorate gingerbricks with the fantastic chefs from McCormick! Use icing, candy and more to decorate gingerbricks that will be used to create our custom, kid-made Port Discovery gingerbread house! Don’t forget to get in on our birthday fun, too – leave us a birthday message, take silly photos and more to help us celebrate 20 years of play!

Super Sundays
Sundays in December| December 2, 8, 16, 23, 30| 10 AM – 4 PM
Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children under two enter free.

Enjoy a family adventure before the weekend is over! Sundays are terrific days to play – and to explore Port Discovery’s indoor magic designed just for kids.  Explore movement and music together as you bop along to Tiny Tots Music Time.  Join in interactive story times, and work together to create art or science projects during Pop-Up Art or at STEM Stations. Plus, build early literacy skills for infants and toddlers in Mother Goose on the Loose®.  Don’t forget to get in on our birthday fun, too – leave us a birthday message, take silly photos and more to help us celebrate 20 years of play!

Infant & Toddler Time
Wednesdays in December| December 5, 12, 19, 26 | 10 AM – 4 PM
Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children under two enter free.

Looking for fun, educational programs for your infant, toddler, pre-schooler or kindergartener? Join Port Discovery for Infant & Toddler Time on Wednesdays, when drop-in programming is designed especially for children ages birth to six! Join in interactive story times, explore rhythm and music together during our fun and interactive Tiny Tots Music Time and introduce children to early literacy skills through Mother Goose on the Loose®. Wednesdays at Port Discovery are also limited to groups with children under the age of six, making for a great day of play and learning for your little ones.

Fantastic Fridays
Fridays in December | December 7, 14, 21 & 28 | 10 AM – 4 PM
Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children under two enter free.

Fridays are for fun and learning – and infants, toddlers, and older children rule the day at Port Discovery. Visit Port Discovery on any Friday for drop-in programs designed to build imaginations, spark curiosity, and literacy and language skills through play. Explore movement and music together as you sing and dance along during our lively Tiny Tots Music Time. Introduce children to early literacy skills during Mother Goose on the Loose(R. Plus take part in our signature Circle Time, get active while taking part in our Backyard Games Circuit, and create simple art projects as a family! 

Gingerbrick Decorating
Saturday, December 8 | 10 AM – 5PM
Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children under two enter free.

Gingerbread houses, gum drops, icing…WAHOO! Join Port Discovery and the wonderful chefs from McCormick to decorate gingerbricks with tasty treats (we won’t tell if you eat one or two…or ten)! Watch as your creating becomes part of a GIANT gingerbread house that will be on display throughout the holiday season. Add to your holiday tradition with other fun and play inside the Museum – get your face painted, make DIY party hats, try out yoga for kids, and dance, sing and get the wiggles out with The Kindersinger’s Snowy Days are Coming program.  Don’t forget to get in on our birthday fun, too – leave us a birthday message, take silly photos and more to help us celebrate 20 years of play!

Dollar (or Less) Day
Sunday, December 9 | Noon – 5 PM

Join us for a day of play for just $1!  On Sunday, December 9, admission to Port Discovery will be just $1!* as Port Discovery participates in Baltimore’s Annual Dollar (or less) Days. This is a fantastic chance to explore the Museum and see what learning through play is all about. Please keep in mind that this day will be a busy one – please be prepared for possible lines to enter the Museum and heavier than usual traffic inside the Museum. *No other discounts, offers or passes may be applied within the same transaction. Tickets while using this discount must be purchased at the Box Office in person and cannot be applied to past purchases or online orders.

Birthday Extravaganza
Saturday, December 15 | 10 AM – 5PM   Sunday, December 16 | Noon – 5PM
Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children under two enter free.

Who doesn’t love a birthday party?! Decorate life-sized birthday cakes (we’re talking BIG CAKES!), make DIY party hats, take part in our photo booth, and help us celebrate 20 years of play with fun, laughter and excitement! Our birthday extravaganza will take place throughout the day on Saturday, December 15 and Sunday, December 16. Can’t make it for our party? We’ll also be doing a bit of celebrating on December 29th when we officially turn the big 2-0!

$2 Family Fun Night | Friday, December 21 | 4 – 8 PM 
Admission $2 for individuals ages two and up. Members and children under two enter free.

$2 Family Fun Night is back!! Play, learn and explore for just $2 – and finish out 2018 with F-U-N! Adventure through the fantastic MR. POTATO HEAD® exhibit, try out science tricks that teach you about science in the coolest way ever, and enjoy books, art, animals and more! Don’t forget to get in on our birthday fun, too – leave us a birthday message, take silly photos and more to help us celebrate 20 years of play! Join us for $2 Family Fun Night on Friday, December 21 from 4-8PM.  Don’t miss it! 

Winter Break Fun
Saturday, December 22 – January 1
Monday  – Saturday – 10 AM – 5PM | Sundays – Noon – 5PM
Closed Monday, December 24 & Tuesday, December 25
Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children under two enter free.

Oh what fun it is to…Play! Especially over Winter Break! Keep those “I’m bored” comments to a minimum as you enjoy an indoor (and warm!) winter wonderland filled with festive performances and fun programs for the whole family. There’s tons to see, do and explore every day – from special science performances from Eric Energy to interactive play workshops, dancing and singing with the Kindersinger, pop-up science and STEM activities, family art projects and so much more that we can’t possibly list it all here! Check out our Winter Break Fun schedule of activities on our website for details on activities taking place each day!

Birthday, Birthday, Birthday!
Saturday, December 29 | 10AM – 5PM
Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children under two enter free.

Hip, hip, HOORAY! 20 Years of Play! Grab your kids, friends, neighbors…and anyone you know – and join us for a party to remember! Decorate GIANT (we’re talking big!!) birthday cakes. Create birthday cupcakes. Make birthday art. Take selfies and silly photos in our photobooth. And…of course…enjoy special activities like Eric Energy’s Freeze Show (how cool?!), a scooting rink (scooting has never been so fun), an interactive theater performance from our favorite puppet family, The Hornswoggles, and, finally….a birthday party show where we’ll sing, dance and celebrate together. Don’t miss out on this special day – after all, we couldn’t possibly celebrate our big 2-0 without you!

Noontime New Year
Monday, December 31 | 10AM – 5PM
Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children under two enter free.

Out with the old, in with the new! Celebrate the wonderful memories, fun and adventures of 2018  – and the magical new things to come in 2019 – at the best New Year’s celebration for kids in Baltimore! Revelers small and tall are invited to join in festive celebrations to ring in 2019. Featuring a noontime countdown, juice and cookie toast, indoor dance party, special performances from Eric Energy, The Kolonder’s, The Kindersinger, a fairy dancer and more – PLUS plenty of New Years’ themed fun, this event will also be a great opportunity to explore Port Discovery’s much-loved exhibits ahead of the wonderful transformations planned for 2019. Check out our Noontime New Year’s schedule of activities on our website for more details on activities you’ll enjoy!

December 2018: Recurring Drop-In Programs

Mess Zone & Clay Play in the BGE Studio Workshop
Open daily during operating hours
Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children under two enter free.

Practice painting, printmaking, clay sculpting and more as you spark your child’s imagination through fun, hands-on art projects in the BGE Studio Workshop! Enter the Mess Zone as we work together to paint and create art. Or get your hands dirty digging and playing during our Clay Play activity.  Not crazy about getting messy? That’s okay! We’ll have other activities to enjoy as well.

Circle Time
Weekdays during operating hours 11:30 AM  | Check event calendar for weekend times
Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children younger than two are admitted for free.

Bring your little ones to Port Discovery’s interactive Circle Time with a changing variety of songs, stories, and fun! Watch your child’s imagination come to life as they get involved in the story and dance and sing along! Plus explore three floors of interactive, hands-on exhibits designed to teach children through play during your visit.

Tiny Tots Music Time
Wednesdays at 11:30 am, Fridays at 11:30 am, 12:15 pm Sundays at 2:30 pm, 3:15 pm, and 4:00 pm
Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children under two enter free.

Explore music and movement through play, laughter and lots of fun! This lively interactive music experience (formerly known as Jingle Jangle Music Time) teaches infants and young toddlers basic rhythm through singing, clapping, and shaking shakers. Birth to age 3 with a parent or caregiver.

Mother Goose on the Loose®
Wednesdays at 10:30 am Fridays at 10:30 am, Sundays at 1:30 pm
Admission is free with museum entry, which is $15.95 for individuals two and up. Members and children under two enter free.

Mother Goose on the Loose: Mother Goose is on the Loose at Port Discovery! Reciting nursery rhymes with puppets, flannel board characters, book illustrations, songs, and musical instruments in this joyful setting helps children develop early literacy skills through play. Birth to age 3 with a parent or caregiver.

GIVEAWAY: Win a 4-6 pack of tickets to Port Discovery – (valid through 12/30/18) by commenting on Facebook & Instagram with the name of your favorite children’s museum. 

December Hours

Tuesdays – Fridays: 10 AM – 4PM | Saturdays: 10AM – 5PM | Sundays: Noon – 5PM

Winter Break Hours

Saturday, December 22 – January 1
Monday  – Saturday – 10 AM – 5PM | Sundays – Noon – 5PM
Closed Monday, December 24 & Tuesday, December 25

Related Posts: 
Top 11: Bambinos in Baltimore

Even more indoor spaces your Bambinos will love

Whether it’s the rain, heat or snow, families are always in need of some more indoor options. In addition to our Indoor  Fun Guide, we’ve found even more fun places to pass along to you. After you’ve covered the entertainment, treat yourself to a meal and feed your kids for FREE.

Go bowling.

Bowlmor Bethesda, now called Bowlero
White Oak Duckpin Lanes
Bowl America
Lucky Strike

Skate & Roll.

Skate N Fun Zone 
Temple Hills Skate Palace

Ice Skate.

Arlington MedStar Capitals Iceplex
Wheaton Ice Arena
Cabin John Ice Rink

Gyms for kids.

Not your typical kid gym 
Zava Zone
Busy Bees

See a show.

Our area has some amazing child-friendly theater productions
BloomBars uniting our community

Not a Smithsonian.

Madame Tussauds
Port Discovery Children’s Museum

BloomBars uniting people, art and community building

BloomBars located at 3222 11th St NW, Washington, DC 20001, is a not-for-profit community arts organization. BloomBars is not something you can easily describe. Some have called it an artist and non-profit incubator, performance space, art gallery, theater, dance studio, screening room, youth academy, and center for health, wellness, and community engagement-they were all correct. Both innovative and old-school wisdom, BloomBars is turning a concept to unite communities through the arts into a model for energizing and inspiring communities to strive for personal and collective progress. Established in 2008 in Washington, DC’s burgeoning Columbia Heights neighborhood, BloomBars is driven by a volunteer team of artists, educators, and community and business leaders. Redefining the perception of a bar, BloomBars does not serve or allow alcohol on its premises fostering a safe and family-friendly environment. They believe art has a critical role in community building, social justice, advocacy, youth development, and health and wellness (Art meaning music, visual and multi-media arts, martial arts, dance, and film). They believe art can be a powerful conduit to link individuals inspired to serve, and communities and organizations in need. They believe there is an urgency to unite people around these principals.

Below you will find all of the amazing programs offered this Fall at BloomBars!

Steel Pan Drum Performance & Workshop- Sept 8
Come hear and learn to play the steel pan drum from the best, PANLARA! Thanks to a partnership with the Institute of Caribbean Studies in Washington DC, and through a grant from the DC Commission on Arts & Humanities, we are excited to welcome the Caribbean rhythms of PANLARA Steel Orchestra. All ages. All welcome.

The Institute of Caribbean Studies (ICS) is a non-partisan, non-profit 501 (3) organization established in 1993 dedicated to education, advocacy and action on issues that impact on Caribbean Americans.

Musical Theatre Mondays (starting Sept 10)
Join Natalie Clasper-Thompson every Monday from 5:30 to 6:30pm for a musical theater journey that invites you to dance and sing along to Broadway and West End musicals. Each class, students will learn about a new musical and rehearse choreography from Aladdin, Frozen, The Lion King, On your Feet, Wicked and more! Make new friends and dance your hearts out to some of the greatest musical stories and perform in a bi-annually recital.

Monday’s at 10:30am
A Boy Called Patches & Friends is an interactive puppet show featuring chants, movement, songs and storytelling! Overall, A Boy Called Patches focuses on the acceptance of differences between yourself and others, therefore aiding in having less need for conflict resolution in certain areas at the early-childhood level while reinforcing that it’s okay to be different!

V. Kuroji Patrick is a father of five, a husband and a published illustrator with a background in early childhood development and education. Kuroji is a true creative who infuses real life into his lessons, no matter the age of the audience.

Tuesdays at 5:30pm
FunDanceMentals – This introductory class will provide a foundation of dance terminology and movement that is based in the techniques of Tap, Hip Hop, Modern and West African dance. The class will culminate in an fun and interactive performance.

Wednesdays at 5:30pm
Family Yoga – This class will give adults and young people and opportunity to meditate and move together. Hermione teaches in a Vinyasa Flow style that is accessible and adaptable to all levels of mobility. She also like to play yoga inspired games that will be fun and beneficial to all ages.

Wednesdays at 10am
Artist in Bloom Resident Tamika Love Jones presents Little Treasures, an educational and interactive journey for babies and children (under age 3) that explores a special box of little treasures. Each treasure that is picked from the box will lead tots and parents to sing their favorite songs, read fun stories and explore their bodies through exciting movement. The theme of Little treasures is self-love and teaching the tots that they, too, are little treasures!

More Programs:

The objectives of BloomBars:

• Build compassionate communities that nurture and support artists committed to service and social responsibility
• Create meaningful connections between artists and community-based organizations
• Empower youth and parents to use art as an education and literacy tool
• Establish a space for artists and community members to learn and practice social activism
• Provide a premier performance space for artists to hone and share their craft
• Provide a (live and digital) platform to amplify artists’ work, and engage and connect local and global communities
• Foster an environment that allows music and art (musicians/artists) to be more accessible to non-artists
• Inspire exploration and discovery of new ideas, places, and people within, and outside of the surrounding community

Not your typical kid gym

Need a place to escape the heat (or cold in the winter) and head indoors? Here are a couple of places that are sure to make your child happy and get some exercise when it’s too hot to be outside in the afternoon (or too cold in the winter). Most of these unique spaces offer camps, classes and birthday parties in addition to providing a space for your Bambinos to move. 

(Photo: Badlands)
Badlands Playspace– 5200 Randolph Rd. Rockville, MD 20852
Read about our fun there!

Scramble Indoor Play– 5412 Eisenhower Ave Alexandria, VA 22304
Scramble is the first European-style play center in Alexandria. Scramble offers incredible indoor play every day of the week, birthday parties Fri-Sun and a full program of summer camps for Elementary-age children this summer.

Elemeno– 709 8th St SE Washington, DC 20003
Formerly known as SkillZone. Parent coworking, SkillZone indoor play, early childhood STEM, family social events, kid-free time & private parties.

Magic Ground– 3100 14th St Northwest 3rd Level Washington, DC
See original review here.

Laugh Out Loud Stations Mega Fun Center– 6250 Greenbelt Rd. Greenbelt, MD 20770
CRAZY FUN Rides and AMAZING attractions all in one place to develop LOL Stations as the Best Indoor Theme Park and Birthday Party Place in the Washington metropolitan area, where the entire family can play together!! LaserTag, Challenge Course, Tumbler, Bumper Cars, Ball Blaster, Bouncers, 4-Level Playground, Himalaya, and much more!! Purchase a package or pay for single games.

Hyper Kidz!- 9309 Snowden River Parkway Columbia, MD 21046
Themed zones for kids ages 0-13. Other attractions include an interactive LED dance floor, laser light show, interactive screen games, bubble machine, glow-in-the-dark play, a concession stand, souvenir stand, and giant lite brite boards. Hyper Kidz encourages healthy and active social play.

(Photo: Nook)
Nook–  Nook Mosaic:Coming Summer 2018 & Nook Ballston Quarter:Coming Fall 2018
Nook is a play and learning space for the young, modern family. Not just a children’s play space, Nook is a blended play, work, and learning experience for the entire family.

Climb Zone-13200 Mid Atlantic Boulevard Suite 130 Laurel, MD 20708
Indoor rock climbing with individual walls, each with a theme. There are a few bounce houses, an area for kids 3 and under to play in, video games and a small cafe. Ages 2-5 are $12, 6 years and older $25. You can stay as long as you’d like. Outside food is permitted. You can have a birthday party here too. Put your harness on and climb aboard your favorite art whether it be Mt. Rushmore or the Alice in Wonderland themed wall, you’ll have a great time.

ZAVAZONE– 45685 Oakbrook Ct #110, Sterling, VA 20166 & 40 Southlawn Court Rockville, MD 20850
ZAVAZONE is an Indoor Adventure Park: a unique space dedicated to active fun for people from ages 5 to 105.  ZAVAZONE brings together ninja courses, ropes courses, trampolines, climbing challenges, zip lines, and more under ONE soaring roof.  It delivers a heart-pumping multi-action experience like no other.  Every visit to ZAVAZONE grants access to ALL of these exhilarating challenges, so you’re always free to create your very own active adventure. The state-of-the-art equipment is overseen by highly trained ZAVAZONE coaches who ensure safety while inspiring guests to make the leap or try a bold new move. All ZAVAZONE activities are included with admission.

Animated Child– 5167 Waterway Drive Montclair, VA 22025
Animated Child is an innovative enrichment center that encourages a child’s natural curiosity, independence and creativity. We engage children in every element of intelligence to highlight their unique way of learning. By exploring in which way a child is smart versus how smart they are, children are empowered to recognize ability within themselves. Great for ages 2-12. Open exploration times, enrichment classes, summer camps and birthday parties are available.

Sprout at Saffron – 3260 Wilson Blvd., Arlington, VA 22201
The ultimate new business concept that combines your productivity (coworking), relaxation, fitness or yoga with your kids playing and learning.  Moms, dads and caregivers can catch up on work or relax in the cafe, take a fitness or yoga class while your kids are taken care of in a holistic and educational environment.  Classes vary from supervised open gym, music, ballerina classes and more! Classes are also offered for kids or adults.

Busy Bees– 11 Wisconsin Circle Bethesda, MD & 6110 D Arlington Blvd. Falls Church, VA 22044
An indoor play space where everything moves, spins or flies just for kids under 48″. $15 (or a pass) will get your kiddos inside, come and go as you please. Open 9-5 everyday. Complimentary coffee, tea and wifi. They also through amazing birthday parties.

Don’t forget these indoor spaces as well:

My Gym–5110 Ridgefield Rd, Bethesda, MD 20816
Kidville– 4825 Bethesda Ave, Bethesda, MD 20814
Gymboree– Various Locations

MOCO Movement offers therapy services in a fully inclusive environment + GIVEAWAY

MOCO Movement Center offers world class therapy services in a fully inclusive environment, alongside a sibling or peer taking a sports or movement class. The center was founded by Dr. Andrea Santman because, “After years of providing therapy services for kids, I saw a huge need to offer classes to prep young kids for all of their physical activities ahead. Before throwing them into a sport like soccer, let’s show them the correct way to kick and handle a ball, allowing them to get comfortable before diving in full force.”

The center is equipped with everything from a synthetic ice rink, where kids can put on real ice skates and get acquainted with the skill, before trying it out on a full blown ice rink to a 15 foot climbing wall, allowing kids to test out rock climbing in a less intimidating atmosphere. The space also boasts a a basketball court, exciting obstacle course and simulated playground, where a child has endless opportunities to reach his or her goals. Class sizes range from 2-4 children allowing personalized attention and the freedom of a choose-your-own-adventure style class.  

MOCO Movement Center’s Early Intervention program focuses on children at the development critical ages of 0 – 3 years. MOCO understands the importance of working with your child on a daily basis to accomplish their milestone goals. Their early intervention trained pediatric therapists have years of experience in development, childhood skills/occupations, language development and social interactions that impact growth and learning. 

At MOCO, they use their expert knowledge of development in conjunction with the natural environment to encourage play and engage children to reach their developmental milestones. They work closely with parents and caregivers to develop goals, create plans of care and collaborate on strategies that support family and child-centered objectives, which encourage continued therapy even at home. They utilize a variety of environments including playgrounds, home and other community settings to encourage participation and support generalization of skills across all areas and settings.Their goal is to help children reach their developmental milestones so that they can move and play more independently, build social relationships through play and communication, and successfully transition and participate in school activities with peers.

Classes at MOCO are offered for babies through age 12. Children use thought, strength, and balance on MOCO’s giant obstacle courses designed with oversized blocks, tight-rope-style lines, trampolines, and suspension equipment to acquire foundational skills, including self-confidence and social interaction, and build sport and fitness skills. Classes provide a unique structured, child-driven curriculum guided by highly-trained staff including expert athletes, medical and educational specialists.

Summer Camp is offered to babies-age 10, half day as well as full day. The summer camp includes movement, music, arts & crafts, science, sports, state-of-the-art equipment, and an inclusive environment. Camps are non-therapeutic and do not have therapeutic goals, however, throughout the day they incorporate a variety of fine and gross motor skills and activities that encourage cooperative group environments.  Birthday Parties are also a hit at MOCO Movement!

My children have taken a few classes here; Kids in Motion and Sports Fundamentals. The students/teacher ratio is unbelievable, the facility has a plethora of equipment and the fact that my 7 & 3 year old can take a class together is priceless. My kids leave the building and before we are in the car they are asking when they can come back. The teachers are extremely hands-on and take great care in having children go through movements and skills the appropriate and safe way. I don’t know of any other facility like this that welcomes all children to work alongside one another, no matter their need or skill level.

Location: 5268A Nicholson Lane Kensington, MD 20895

Giveaway: MOCO Movement is giving away one month of classes to a Bambino who is age 3 months to 10 years old (only one child per family). Enter on Beltway Bambinos Facebook page and Like MOCO Movement’s Facebook page– Bonus entry for commenting on Instagram. Winner will be announced May 30, 2018.

logo design courtesy of New Leaf Design