Kids 101
Kids. These tiny tykes can be silly, restless, and downright curious. Fortunately for moms and dad (and grandparents, too!) there’s always something around the corner to discover.
5 Greatest Things to Do with Your Kids in Savannah
Whether it’s a weekend or that long winter break, it’s important to get your kids out of the house, away from the video games, and on some adventures. Savannah is a city teeming with activities that kids will love, so why haven’t y’all explored them yet? Here are South’s greatest places to take your kids in Savannah:
1 Savannah Children’s Museum
Entirely outdoors and full of fun learning for your kids, the Savannah Children’s Museum is a must-do time and time again for families. The museum features over a dozen exhibits designed to expand the imaginations of children. Set them free in the Exploration Maze or cuddle into the Reading Nook. Daily programming by on-sight educators keeps children engaged and the museum fresh and exciting for every single visit. Before you go, head to chsgeorgia.org/SCM for a full calendar of events or to print out activity sheets for your child. Address: 655 Louisville Road, Savannah, GA 31401 Phone: 912.651.4292 Web: chsgeorgia.org/SCM
2 Artzeum at the Jepson Center
One of Telfair Museums’ signature programs, the 2017 PULSE Art and Technology Festival highlights innovative, technology-based art. “The exhibitions, performances and programs remind us that play interaction and imaginative exploration are not only important to creativity, but to our survival as human beings,” said Pulse curator Harry DeLorme, “This year’s exhibitions demonstrate the connections between art and science, from genetics and paleontology to emerging research on artificial intelligence.” The festival returns with exciting exhibitions, lectures, workshops and performances exploring themes ranging from the use of scientific data and information in art, to artificial intelligence and machine learning, to new artistic forms of videogame design. More information at Telfair.org/PULSE. Address: 207 W. York St., Savannah, GA 31401 Phone: 912.790.8800
3 Oatland Island Wildlife Center
With 150 different wildlife species, (including alligators, bald eagles and wolves!) Oatland Island is an educational facility that specializes in environmental discovery. Each year it hosts field trips for approximately 20,000 schoolchildren. Currently closed for repairs in the wake of Hurricane Matthew, Oatland is normally open 361 days a year. Admission ranges from $3.00 for students to $5.00 for adults 18 years or older, but year round passes are available through Friends of Oatland (FOO). Address: 711 Sandtown Road, Savannah, GA 31410 Phone: 912.395.1212
4 Old Savannah Trolley Tours
There’s no better way for your kids to get to know their city than to take a fun and interactive trolley tour. On Old Savannah Tours, visitors have the luxury of hopping on and off to visit the many sights around town or even to settle down if the kids get fussy. Plus, at many of the stops, historic characters will hop on the trolley and give a little insight about historic life in Savannah. By taking a trolley tour, your kids will get the opportunity to see the entire city without having to walk (which we all know can make them a bit cranky). For tour schedules and maps visit oldsavannahtours.com. Address: 250 MLK Jr. Blvd., Savannah, GA 31401 Phone: 912.234.8128
5 Georgia State Railroad Museum
A National Historic Landmark, the Georgia State Railroad Museum boasts a fully operational turntable, historic railcars, and guided tours. Your kids will love exploring the site by steam or diesel locomotive while learning about Southern rail history. You can even get the whole family involved by trying out the handcar. The harder they work, the faster they’ll go! Visit chsgeorgia.org/GSRM for hours and train ride schedules. Address: 655 Louisville Road, Savannah, GA 31401 Phone: 912.651.4292
A Healthy “Pop”
It’s so tempting, walking into a bakery like Our Daily Bread in downtown Savannah. The aroma … the appeal of the cupcakes, muffins, tarts … but wait! There’s a tasty, low-calorie treat featured here. “We call them ‘Ice Pops,’” says Dee Gibson, one of the owners. They’re frozen fruit bars, no added sugar, just 20 calories, and they come in a dazzling variety of flavors. Strawberry is the favorite, but the menu varies depending on the fruit in season. Try banana and honeydew! Address: 6 E State St, Savannah, GA 31401 Phone: 912.713.4977 Web: facebook.com/OurDailyBreadCafeSavannah
Each popscicle is made with natural fruit juices, fruit, and ice. The perfect healthy snack year round. Top left: Mango. Top right: Strawberry raspberry. Bottom left: Mango blackberry. Bottom right: Strawberry blackberry.
5 Benefits of Yoga for Kids
1. PROMOTES MINDFULNESS AND SELF-AWARENESS. Yoga and meditation teach children to learn to be still, to become comfortable with stillness and to connect with it.
2. CREATES A STRONG PHYSICAL CONNECTION WITH THE BODY. Practicing the postures in yoga enhances strength, balance and coordination.
3. RELAXATION. Learning to take deep, cleansing breaths relieves tension and creates feelings of peace and relaxation.
4. MENTAL ENERGY. When the mind is calm, we can think clearly without as many distractions and become more focused.
5. ENHANCED CREATIVITY. Encourages imagination through visualization techniques.
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