Weekly Event Summary (Jan 15th – Jan 22nd) – Family Friendly Boston Cambridge

Brittney

Family Friendly Boston Cambridge

Weekly Event Summary (Jan 15) 

________________________________

1) Boston Bike Party Presents: Neon Masquerade (Jan 15)
2) Casual Friday at BSO (Jan 15)
3) Somerville Winter Farmers’ Market (Jan 16)
4) Bio Blitz (Jan 16)
5) Cambridge Winter Farmers’ Market (Jan 16)
6) Potter’s Talk with Ben Owen III (Jan 17)
7) Martin Luther King Jr. Day Open House at the MFA (Jan 18)
8) Many Helping Hands MLK Day of Service 2016 (Jan 18)
9) Lego Club (Jan 19)
10) Frog Pond Ice Skating (Jan 21)
11) ICA Free Thursday Nights (Jan 21)
________________________________
Detailed Listings
________________________________

1) Boston Bike Party Presents: Neon Masquerade (Jan 15)
When:
Friday, Jan 15, 2016 7:00p –
9:00p
Where:
Copley Square
1 Copley Sq
Boston, MA 02115
Admission:
FREE
You are cordially invited to Boston Bike Party’s Neon Masquerade! Stay warm behind a mask and choose when to reveal your true identity, if ever. Add some feathers, glam, or glitter, but make sure to be bright! We’ll be lighting up the streets before we dance our way to midnight.
Friday, January 15, 2016
Copley Square, 7:00pm
Short ride followed by EPIC after party at POPAllston

2) Casual Friday at BSO (Jan 15)
When: January 15, 2016 – January 15, 2016
Times: Starting: 8:00 PM
Where:: Boston Symphony Orchestra / Boston Pops / Symphony Hall
301 Massachusetts Avenue, Boston, MA 02115
Cost: $25-$45
Fran?ois-Xavier Roth conducts Mozart and Stravinsky featuring Elizabeth Rowe and Jessica Zhou
Boston Symphony Orchestra
Boston Symphony Hall Boston MA
Artist & Program Information
Fran?ois-Xavier Roth, conductor
Elizabeth Rowe, flute
Jessica Zhou, harp
MOZART Concerto in C for flute and harp, K.299 (29 min)
STRAVINSKY Petrushka (1911 version) (35 min)
You are invited to wear your favorite casual attire, and to arrive early to enjoy a free, pre-concert reception before you take your seat. This lowerpriced series also allows you to use tablets-to be provided by the BSO-if you choose to sit in a designated area in the rear of the orchestra floor. Tablet seating is in Orchestra Price classes 5 & 6 only. If you do not wish to participate in the tablet seating, please do not select these price areas.
3) Somerville Winter Farmers’ Market (Jan 16)
When:
Saturday, Jan 16, 2016 9:30a – 2:00p
Where:
Center for Arts at the Armory
191 Highland Ave
Somerville, MA 02143
Admission: FREE
Presenting the very best variety of products from New England farms and specialty vendors including vegetables, fruit, meat, cheese, fish, baked goods, and lots more.
Live music, delicious treats in two cafe areas and a chance to meet friends — Chase away the chill of even the coldest winter day with us!
December through March at 191 Highland Ave, Somerville, MA. Every Saturday from 9:30 AM to 2:00 PM (closed Dec 26, 2015)
For more information visit http://www.somwintermarket.org 
4) Bio Blitz (Jan 16)
When:
Saturday, Jan 16, 2016 1:00p –
3:30p
Where:
Arnold Arboretum
125 Arborway Boston, Hunnewell Building
Boston, MA 02130
Admission:
FREE
Unseasonably warm weather in Boston has changed how plants and animals hunt, sleep, migrate, feed, reproduce and thrive in our environment. Come explore and investigate how life is adapting to our changing climate in the beautiful Arnold Arboretum this January. Bring your curiosity and a smart phone. We will be uploading our findings to citizen science platform iNaturalist during our (indoor) debrief immediately following our outdoor musings.
5) Cambridge Winter Farmers’ Market (Jan 16)
When:
Saturday, Jan 16, 2016 10:00a –
2:00p
Where:
Cambridge Community Center
5 Callender St
Cambridge, MA 02139
Admission:
FREE
Join us for the 5th Annual Opening Day of the Cambridge Winter Farmers Market at the Cambridge Community Center! We will be open every Saturday from 10 am – 2 pm from January through April!
The opening day will feature local food and drinks, live music, an art project hosted by the Riverside Gallery, a photo booth, and face painting.
Our vendors for opening day:
Valicenti Pasta Farm Winter Moon Roots Copicut Farms Jubali BirchTree Bread Company Marblehead Salt Co. Sweet Lydia’s Apex Orchards El Recreo Estate Coffee, Inc. Fungi Ally Freedom Food Farm Levend Bakery Chickadee Farm Silverbrook Farm Narragansett Creamery The Soup Guy Honeycomb Creamery Kitchen Millie Lilac Hedge Farm Dan’s Power Plant Moose Cup Samira’s Homemade Just Add Cooking Soluna Garden Farm Jennifer Lee’s Gourmet Bakery
Our musicians:
JackKnife Valentines
JackKnife Valentines influences run from Bob Dylan and the Band to James Brown, Bill Withers and Gil Scott Heron. With two amazing lead singers in Jimmy James and Gene McAuliffe, their songs span roots americana, soul and country. Members of the band have played in prominent blues, rock, and alternative groups around Boston for several decades. Basically, it’s all about soul and playing from your heart.
James McCarthy
James McCarthy is a singer, pianist that performs upbeat pop music and catchy original songs.
6) Potter’s Talk with Ben Owen III (Jan 17)
When:
Sunday, Jan 17, 2016 2:00p –
4:00p
Where:
Pucker Gallery
240 Newbury St, 3rd floor
Boston, MA 02116
Admission:
FREE
Ben Owen III is an American studio potter working in Seagrove, North Carolina. Born into a traditional pottery family, he was first introduced to clay by his grandfather when he was eight years old. Ben?s natural talent and unusual level of interest led to an apprenticeship with his grandfather and father by age 13. Through high school, he carefully studied the shapes, glazes, and traditions of the Owen aesthetic and learned to appreciate the history and legacy of generations of craft.
During college, Ben?s interest in form, design, and color piqued; and he began to forge his own unique path in clay. Through technical exploration and academic influences, Ben?s clay vernacular began to evolve. Travels in the US attending workshops and conferences along with a fellowship in Japan, extended his continued research. Ben?s recent passions have included glaze creation and experimentation.
Works created by Mr. Owen are included in numerous museum collections including the Smithsonian Museum in Washington, DC; The International Folk Art Museum in Santa Fe, NM; The Schein-Joseph International Museum of Art in Alfred, NY; and The Mint Museum of Craft and Design in Charlotte, NC.
The exhibition Rich History, Vibrant Present will be held from 16 January through 28 February, 2016 at Pucker Gallery.

7) Martin Luther King Jr. Day Open House at the MFA (Jan 18)
When: Monday, January 18, 2016, 10am ? 4:45pm
Where: Museum of Fine Arts
465 Huntington Ave
Boston, MA 02115
Cost: Free
Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day by surrounding yourself with art, culture and community. Enjoy free admission all day long and an array of vibrant programs and activities for all ages.

8) Many Helping Hands MLK Day of Service 2016 (Jan 18)
When:
Monday, Jan 18, 2016 2:00p –
5:00p
Where:
Central Square, City Hall and Cambridge Senior Center
795 Massachusetts Ave
Cambridge, MA 02139
Admission:
FREE
Make Jan. 18 MLK Day A Day of Service for the Cambridge Community
This is the 6th Annual Cambridge Day of Service that Many Helping Hands 365 has organized to celebrate the Martin Luther King Day holiday.
The event is free and open to the public.
All ages are welcome to help with hands-on crafts projects that benefit Cambridge residents in need. Join us for an afternoon of hands-on service projects! Make fleece scarves and blankets for homeless children and adults. Make Valentines for elders and veterans. Sort food, winter clothing, books and toiletries for people in need and more!
Come spend an afternoon making a difference in the lives of others. Many people. Many needs. Many Helping Hands.
Many thanks to the many organizations, city departments, businesses and individuals who help make Cambridge MLK Day of Service possible.
Don’t come empty handed!
Bring a can of food, gently used winter clothing or a children’s book for someone in need. We are also collecting and sorting donations of food, children’s books and winter clothing at the event.
All ages welcome! We need everyone’s helping hands

9) Lego Club (Jan 19)
When: Tuesday, January 19, 2016, 3:30 ? 4:30pm
Where: Children’s Library
Central Library in Copley Square
700 Boylston Street
Boston MA 02116
Cost: Free
Details: Children of all ages build and play together with LEGO and DUPLO bricks.


10) Frog Pond Ice Skating (Jan 21)
When:
Tuesday, Dec 22, 2015 10:00a – Thursday, Mar 10, 2016 10:00p
Where:
Frog Pond
Boston Common
Boston, MA
Admission:
$5
The absolute best place to skate outdoors in Boston. Open to the public with skate rentals available. Weather permitting, ice skating returns to Boston Common Frog Pond mid-November of each year.
Open Daily starting Saturday, Nov 22, 2015:
Mon 10AM-4PM
Tue-Thu 10AM-9PM
Fri-Sat 10AM-10PM
Sun 10AM-9PM
Daily Admission:
Adult Admissions (14+): $5.00
Kid Admissions (13 & under): FREE
Rentals:
Adult Skate Rentals: $10.00
Kid Skate Rentals: $5.00
Locker Rentals: $2.00
Skate Sharpening
$8.00 per pair

11) ICA Free Thursday Nights (Jan 21)
When: Thursday, January 21, 2016, 4 ? 9pm
Where: The Institute of Contemporary Art
100 Northern Ave
Boston, MA 02210
Cost: Free
FREE for all every Thursday from 4 to 9 PM during ICA Free Thursday Nights. Special hours: From Oct, 10, 2015 to Jan 24, 2016, Free Thursdays will start early at 4 PM in conjunction with Leap Before You Look: Black Mountain College 1933?1957.

Toddler A-Z – 100 Objects That Start with the Letter “A”

Brittney 3 Comments
Objects that start with letter a picture

A group of my friends started doing something we are calling Toddler Time and each week we choose a letter to focus on.  I realized that finding objects that start with the letter of the week can be a challenge and I thought it might be helpful to have a long list of “A” letter objects them on hand.  If I’ve missed something drop me a note in the comments, I would be thrilled to add even more letter “A” objects.

  1. A1 Sauce: A type of steak sauce often used as a condiment or marinade.
  2. Aardvark: A nocturnal mammal with a long snout and large ears, native to Africa.
  3. Abacus: A counting device consisting of rows of beads or counters that can be moved back and forth on rods.
  4. Abalone: A type of marine mollusk that has a shell with a pearly interior and is often used in jewelry.
  5. Abdomen: The region of the body between the chest and pelvis, containing the digestive organs.
  6. Abrasive: A substance used for rubbing, grinding, or polishing, typically a rough material.
  7. Ace: The highest playing card in a deck, often representing the number one.
  8. Acorn: The fruit of an oak tree, typically egg-shaped and containing a single seed.
  9. Acorn Squash: A variety of winter squash that has a harder, ribbed exterior and a sweet, yellow flesh.
  10. Acrobat: A person who performs gymnastic or balancing acts, often involving feats of agility and flexibility.
  11. Actor: A person who portrays a character in a play, movie, or television show.
  12. Actress: A female actor, often used to distinguish from male actors.
  13. Adder (Snake): A venomous snake that is common in Europe and parts of Asia and Africa.
  14. Aerator (for lawns or aquariums): A device used to add air or oxygen to soil or water, promoting healthy growth.
  15. Afghan: A type of knitted or crocheted blanket or wrap that originated in Afghanistan.
  16. Africa: The second-largest continent in the world, home to a diverse range of cultures, wildlife, and landscapes.
  17. Agate (type of stone): A type of translucent, banded stone often used in jewelry or decorative items.
  18. Air: The invisible gaseous substance surrounding the Earth, composed mainly of nitrogen and oxygen.
  19. Air Conditioner: An electrical device that cools and dehumidifies indoor air.
  20. Air mattress: An inflatable mattress that can be used as a temporary bed or for camping.
  21. Airplane: A powered flying vehicle with fixed wings and a weight greater than that of the air it displaces.
  22. Airport: A facility where planes take off, land, and are serviced, often including terminals for passengers.
  23. Airtight container: A container or enclosure that does not allow air or other gases to enter or escape.
  24. Alarm Clock: A device that makes a loud sound or emits a signal at a specific time to wake someone up.
  25. Albatross: A large seabird with long wings, known for its ability to fly long distances over the ocean.
  26. Album: A collection of recorded or printed material, often containing music or photographs.
  27. Alfalfa Sprouts: Young shoots of the alfalfa plant, often used as a nutritious ingredient in salads or sandwiches.
  28. Algae: A simple, nonflowering plant that contains chlorophyll and is often found in water or damp environments.
  29. Alien: A being from another planet or extraterrestrial origin.
  30. Alligator: A large aquatic reptile with a long snout and sharp teeth, native to North America and China.
  31. Allosaurus: A large carnivorous dinosaur that lived during the late Jurassic period.
  32. Allspice: A spice made from the dried berries of the Pimenta dioica plant, often used in baking or cooking.
  33. Ally: A person or group that is joined or united with another for a common purpose or interest.
  34. Almanac: A yearly publication that contains a calendar of events, weather predictions, and other informative data.
  35. Almond: The edible seed of the almond tree, often used in baking or as a snack.
  36. Almond Joy: A popular candy bar consisting of almonds, coconut, and milk chocolate.
  37. Almond Milk: A dairy-free milk alternative made from ground almonds and water.
  38. Aloe Vera: A succulent plant with thick, gel-like sap that is often used for its medicinal properties.
  39. Alpaca: A domesticated South American mammal that resembles a small llama and is raised for its wool.
  40. Alphabet: The set of letters or characters used to represent the basic sounds of a language.
  41. Alphabet Soup: A type of soup that contains pasta in the shape of alphabet letters.
  42. Altoid: A brand of breath mint known for its strong, flavorful taste.
  43. Aluminum Foil: Thin, flexible sheets made of aluminum that are often used for wrapping or covering food.
  44. Amber: A hard, translucent fossilized resin that is often used in jewelry or decorative items.
  45. Ambulance: A vehicle equipped with specialized medical equipment and personnel to transport sick people.
  46. America: The United States of America, a country located in North America.
  47. American Cheese: A processed cheese product commonly used in sandwiches and burgers.
  48. Amp: Short for amplifier, a device that increases the amplitude of an electronic signal.
  49. Amplifier: An electronic device that increases the power or amplitude of a signal.
  50. Ampoule: A small glass container used to store and administer medicine.
  51. Anaconda: A large snake species found in tropical South America.
  52. Anchor: A heavy object used to keep a boat or ship in place.
  53. Anchovy: A small fish typically used as a topping or flavoring in food.
  54. Angel: A spiritual being often depicted as a messenger or guardian.
  55. Angel Food Cake: A light and fluffy cake made with egg whites and no fat.
  56. Angel Hair Pasta: A thin type of pasta resembling strands of hair.
  57. Angelfish: A colorful tropical fish commonly found in aquariums.
  58. Angle: The measurement between two lines or surfaces that meet at a point.
  59. Animal Crackers: Small cookie snacks shaped like various animals.
  60. Animals: Living organisms that are not plants or bacteria, including mammals, birds, reptiles, and more.
  61. Anise: A spice with a licorice-like flavor commonly used in cooking and baking.
  62. Ankle: The joint connecting the foot and the leg.
  63. Ant: A small insect known for its organized colonies and ability to lift many times its own weight.
  64. Antarctica: The southernmost continent, mostly covered in ice, and the home to the South Pole.
  65. Anteater: A mammal known for its long snout and feeding on ants and termites.
  66. Antelope: A mammal found in various habitats, known for their speed and impressive horns.
  67. Antenna: An device used for transmitting or receiving radio or television signals.
  68. Antler: A bony outgrowth, typically branched, that grows on the head of deer and other similar animals.
  69. Anvil: A heavy iron block used by blacksmiths as a surface for shaping metal.
  70. Ape: A primate with no tail, including gorillas, chimpanzees, and orangutans.
  71. Aphid: A small, sap-sucking insect that commonly infests plants.
  72. Appetizer: A small dish served before the main course to stimulate the appetite.
  73. Apple: A round fruit with a crisp texture and various flavors, commonly associated with Apple trees.
  74. Apple Butter: A spread made by slow-cooking apples with sugar and spices.
  75. Apple Chip: A thin slice of apple that is dried or baked until crisp.
  76. Apple Juice: A beverage made by extracting the liquid from mashed apples.
  77. Apple Pie: A baked dessert consisting of a sweet filling made from apples, typically encased in pastry.
  78. Apple Sauce: A puree made from cooked or mashed apples, often served as a condiment or ingredient.
  79. Apricot: A small, orange fruit with a soft, velvety skin and a sweet-tart flavor.
  80. Apron: A protective garment worn over clothing to shield it from dirt or stains.
  81. Aquarium: A glass or acrylic container filled with water where aquatic animals and plants are kept.
  82. Arch: A curved structure that spans an opening, often used in architecture and engineering.
  83. Arctic Ocean: The smallest and shallowest ocean located around the North Pole.
  84. Ark: In biblical context, a large boat built by Noah to save animals from a flood.
  85. Arm: The upper limb of the human body, extending from the shoulder to the hand.
  86. Armadillo: A small mammal with a bony, protective shell covering its body.
  87. Armadillo shell: The hard outer covering of an armadillo’s body.
  88. Armchair: A comfortable chair with armrests, typically used in living rooms.
  89. Armpit: The hollow area under the arm where it joins the shoulder.
  90. Arrow: A pointed projectile usually shot from a bow.
  91. Art: Creative expression or the process and result of creating visual, auditory, or performance works.
  92. Artichoke: A green, thistle-like vegetable with edible leaves and a heart, often used in cooking.
  93. Artist: A person who creates art, whether it be paintings, sculptures, drawings, or other forms of artistic expression.
  94. Artwork: A piece of visual or creative work made by an artist, which can encompass various mediums such as painting, photography, or digital art.
  95. Arugula: A leafy green vegetable with a peppery taste, commonly used in salads and culinary dishes.
  96. Ash: The powdery residue left after something has burned, usually referring to the remains of burnt wood or other organic matter.
  97. Ashtray: A small dish or container used for collecting ash and cigarette butts, typically found in smoking areas.
  98. Asia: The largest continent on Earth, encompassing various countries and cultures, including China, India, Japan, and many others.
  99. Asian Pear: A type of fruit that resembles a round apple, known for its crisp texture and juicy, sweet flavor.
  100. Asparagus: A vegetable with long, slender stalks and a unique taste, often steamed, grilled, or used in various recipes.
  101. Asphalt: A black, sticky, and durable material used in road construction and surfacing, made from a mixture of aggregates and bitumen.
  102. Astronaut: A person who is trained to travel and conduct experiments in space, typically a member of a national space agency.
  103. Athlete: A person who participates in sports or physical activities, often with a high level of skill and competitiveness.
  104. Athletic Shoe: A specially designed footwear intended for sports or exercise, providing comfort, support, and protection for the feet.
  105. Atlas: A collection of maps or charts, often bound together in a book format, providing geographical information about different regions.
  106. Aureole (halo): A circle of radiant light or brightness, often depicted around the head of a divine being in religious artwork.
  107. Autoclave: A device used in scientific or medical settings to sterilize equipment or materials using high-pressure steam and heat.
  108. Autograph: A signature, particularly that of a famous person, often obtained as a personal memento or for collecting purposes.
  109. Automatic door: A door equipped with sensors or mechanisms that automatically open and close without requiring physical contact.
  110. Automobile: A motorized vehicle used for transportation, typically with four wheels and an internal combustion engine.
  111. Aviary (bird enclosure): A large cage or structure designed to house and protect various species of birds, allowing them to fly and live in a more natural environment.
  112. Avocado: A fruit with a creamy texture and a nutty flavor, commonly used in salads, sandwiches, and as a main ingredient in guacamole.
  113. Awning: A fabric or metal cover attached to the exterior of a building or over a window or door, providing shade and protection from the elements.
  114. Axe: A tool with a sharp blade attached to a wooden or metal handle, used for chopping or splitting wood.
  115. Axel: A figure skating jump where the skater takes off from a forward outside edge and completes one and a half revolutions in the air, landing backwards.
  116. Aye Aye: A rare and unique species of lemur found only in Madagascar, known for its long, bony fingers and nocturnal habits.
  117. Azalea (flower): A type of flowering shrub with colorful and showy blossoms, typically found in gardens and landscapes.

Learning letter A, List of 100 objects and things that begin with letter A for toddlers and preschoolers

Can you think of any other objects that start with letter “A”?  If so please comment and let me know, I’d love to get them added to the list.

You May Also Be Interested In:

Family Friendly Boston – What to Know About Visiting Boston’s Children’s Museum with a Toddler

Brittney
Winters are long and cold here in Boston and it’s easy to start feeling locked in and going a little crazy.  One place I kept hearing that we needed to check out to assuage these winter blues was the Boston Children’s Museum.

Boston

I wanted to go check it out for a while but felt like it was ridiculously expensive for a one time visit ($14 per person, including young children) but not awful for a year long family membership ($150/year). I needed to get out to stay sane so I decided it was worth it and that we may as well just get a membership.

We waited for a warmish day and walked the 2 miles to get there, but there are lots of other transportation options to get you their more easily, I’ll list them below.

Boston

The Boston’s Children’s Museum is tall and laid out with a bunch of different themed rooms, like a music room, a community room (where they have a small grocery store, a barber shop, and a dress up station), a construction room where kids can build things or climb in crazy tunnels and most importantly for us at the time, a little kid room where you were only allowed if you were under… I want to say two…  This room had books, puzzles, a climbing area, and bubbles.

We made it to the museum and let our son go wild.  He loved it… and I’ve never seen him throw so many tantrums so he also might have been a little over stimulated… :/   I mean there were about a million-billion kids there going crazy and so many new things to see and do.

Boston

After having a membership for a while I realized that the Children’s Museum is always crowded, even during week days during the school year.  My son really loved it, but I felt like at a 1.5 years old he was constantly getting plowed over by other, bigger kids, and when our membership expired I decided not to renew it until my son is a little older and more able to enjoy the bigger exhibits.

Things to Note:

1) Price
I think it’s fairly expensive for a single visit.  $16/person for anyone over 12 months or $150 for a four person family year long membership.  Also if you want to try it out before you commit, and you don’t mind large crowds, you can check out the museum for $1/person on Friday nights between 5-9pm.

2) Getting There
There are tons of options for getting there including buses, trains, and a parking garage, you can learn more about those options here: http://www.bostonchildrensmuseum.org/visit/directions

3) Stroller Friendliness
Surprisingly not very stroller friendly for such a child centric place.  We always ended up there with a stroller and had to drag it around room to room with us.  There is a little bit of stroller parking near the toddler area and you can leave your stroller at the end of a couple of corridors, but there really isn’t a place to check them in and some of the room spaces are too tight to accommodate them. The museum suggests leaving them behind or bring a smaller umbrella stroller that can fit in a storage locker.

Boston

4) Lots of Kids, Always
This places is a mad house of kids during the weekends, but I found it to also be quite busy during the week with field trips and the like, and the toy and exhibits are all fairly well loved/used.

Summary and Rating ★★★★☆

Four Stars.  This place has a lot to offer, but I think it’s fairly expensive and much better suited to children older than two years.  I felt like my little son ended up getting run over by less well accompanied older children and the baby/toddler room didn’t hold our interest super long.  We’ll try going back when he’s a little bit older, but for now we’re going to stick with the Boston Museum of Science.

Have you been here before?  If so I’d love to know more about your experience and any tips or tricks you have in the comments section below.

Boston Children’s Museum
308 Congress Street
Boston, MA 02210

Phone: 617.426.6500
Website: http://www.bostonchildrensmuseum.org/

Hours: Saturday-Thursday 10am-5pm
Fridays 10am-9pm

Sharing is Caring… Want to share this post?  Check out this ready made tweet:

Click to Tweet: In Boston with Toddlers? Check out what you should know before visiting the Boston Children’s Museum #Boston #touringboston http://ctt.ec/o6kpe+

Cardboard Creations – Easy DIY Playhouse

Brittney 1 Comment

This is my first post for Cardboard Creations and I’m super excited about it, especially since this craft was really easy and turned out a lot better than I dared to hope for.

Cardboard Creations - Easy DIY Cardboard Playhouse Doghouse

Supplies Needed:

  • 1 large cardboard box (two if you want a roof)
  • Exacto Knife 
Optional Supplies: 
  • Large Plate (will be traced)
  • Book (will be traced)
  • Glue Gun & Glue Sticks (If you want to flip your box inside out to hide the text on it)
  • Paint

Kids seem to have a strange fascination with cardboard boxes and since we live in an apartment complex we have access to tons of boxes of every shape and size sitting near the recycle… turns out they are kind of an ideal crafting material.

And, since my son can’t get enough of dogs, I thought it might be fun to make him a Playhouse/Doghouse. 

Cardboard Creations - Easy DIY Cardboard Playhouse Doghouse

Step 1) Create the Roof Flaps
Grab a large box, I stared with an Extra Large U-Haul Box. Lay the box flat, with flaps out. Find the top middle of the small flap of the box and draw a dot, then grab a strait edge (a ruler or book work great) and draw a line from that dot to the bottom edge of the flap, creating a triangle shape. Repeat this step for the other small flap at the top of the box.  Then cut off the outside triangles so you just have the one large triangle in the middle left.

Step 2) Create a Window with Shutters
On the wide side of the box I traced a small book so I could create a window.  Then I drew a line down the middle of it, so my window could have shutters.

I finished it off by drawing two small rectangles right in the middle of my shutters that could be used as finger holds when opening and shutting the window. Use your Exacto knife to cut out the windows leaving the further most sides intact.

It might help to have a book pressed up against the side of your window so that first crease happens along a line and doesn’t make your box bow awkwardly.

Step 3) Create a Door
Grab a large plate or book to trace.  I used a plate and positioned it toward the top of the box. I traced the top half of the plate, then used a book to create strait lines to the bottom of the box making a door.

I would also suggest marking a small area to cut a window in the door, this can be used for your child to open and close the door, and to peek through it.  Again, use your Exacto knife to cut out your door shape leaving one side intact.

Again, it might help to have a book pressed up against the side of your window so that first crease happens along a line and doesn’t make your box bow awkwardly.

Step 4) Create a Roof (optional)
If you want a roof your going to need another decent sized box.  I found a big flat one, ripped out the seam on it so it would lay flat and then cut a large rectangle sized piece out of it, big enough to cover my whole other box.  Then I bent it down the middle creating a point so it would stay on the box as a roof, but so I didn’t have to glue it down.   
Step 5) Flip the Box (optional – only if you want to paint your box)
Lay your box flat and find the seam where your box is glued or stapled together.  Using your knife try to pry apart the glue or staples so that your box can lay completely flat.

Step 6) Reform the Box (optional – only if you flipped your box)
Flip your box inside out, so that the unprinted side of your box is facing outward and glue the seam back together (I used a hot glue gun for this and it worked marvelously).

Step 7) Paint Your Box (optional)
Paint it however you like.

Step 8) Fold the Box
I left the bottom flaps of my box intact and folded them under the box for some additional stability.  I rested the long flaps at the top against the triangle pieces I had cut out and laid the roof across them.  And Bam! The house is ready to enjoy!

Have you made this craft?  What was your experience like and do you have an suggestions to make it better?  I’d love to hear about them in the comments section below. 

Sharing is Caring… Want to share this post?  Check out this ready made tweet:

Click to Tweet: Check out this super easy, cheap, cute, DIY playhouse! #Upcycle #CardboardCreations #DIY https://www.slyspoon.com/2016/01/cardboard-creations-easy-diy-playhouse.html

Weekly Event Summary (Jan. 8th – Jan 15th) – Family Friendly Boston Cambridge

Brittney

Family Friendly Boston Cambridge

1) Ottawa International Animation Festival (Today)
2) La Fete des Rois (Jan 9)
3) Ben Rawlence discusses CITY OF THORNS: Nine Lives in the World’s Largest Refugee Camp (Jan 9)
4) Somerville Winter Farmers’ Market (Jan 9)
5) Kids’ Shows: Debbie and Friends (Jan 10)
6 Urban Gardening Series: Water Conservation in the Garden (Jan 10)
7) South Station Chess Simultaneous Exhibition (Jan 12)
________________________________

1) Ottawa International Animation Festival (Today)
When:
Friday, Jan 08, 2016 7:00p –
Sunday, Jan 10, 2016 5:00p
Where:
Institute of Contemporary Art
100 Northern Ave
Boston, MA 02210
Admission:
$5-10
Fri, Jan 8, 7 PM
Sun, Jan 10, 3 PM
FREE for Associate Members + above / $5 members + students / $10 nonmembers
Enjoy the world’s most cutting-edge, thoughtful, funny, and provocative animation at the ICA’s presentation of the Ottawa International Animation Festival’s best selections from 2015. Whether you love classic cartoons, mind-bending experiments, fantastic digital creations, dazzling effects, technical fireworks, thought-provoking observations, or pure gut-busting fun, there is something for everyone. Intended for mature audiences.
2) La Fete des Rois (Jan 9)
When:
Saturday, Jan 09, 2016 1:00p –
3:00p
Where:
The French Cultural Center
53 Marlborough Street
Boston, MA 02116
Admission:$8-25
A traditional French holiday, la F’te des Rois (Feast of the Kings) is a festive event and an opportunity for families to gather for some delicious Galette des Rois (King’s cake).
Children will enjoy fun activities while the galettes are warming up in the oven, then we will all enjoy a generous slice of the cake! If it’s your lucky day, your piece of galette will hold the I’ve (bean) and you will be crowned king or queen!
Pricing
Members:
$8 adults, $4 children, $15 family (2 adults and 1 or 2 children).
Non-Members:
$12 adults, $6 children, $25 family (2 adults and 1 or 2 children).
Children under 5: free

3) Ben Rawlence discusses CITY OF THORNS: Nine Lives in the World’s Largest Refugee Camp (Jan 9)
When:
Saturday, Jan 09, 2016 11:00a – 12:00p
Where:
MIT Coop at Kendall Square
325 Main St
Cambridge, MA 02142
Admission: FREE
Book talk and signing with author, Ben Rawlence, about his latest work, “CITY OF THORNS: Nine Lives in the World’s Largest Refugee Camp.”
Former Human Rights Watch researcher Rawlence (Radio Congo: Signals of Hope from Africa’s Deadliest War, 2012) tells the distressing story of Kenya’s vast Dadaab refugee camp, where nearly 500,000 people fleeing civil war in nearby Somalia live in a “teeming ramshackle metropolis” the size of Atlanta. Drawing on hundreds of interviews conducted during a series of extended visits to Dadaab since 2010, the author plunges readers into this hellish city of “mud, tents and thorns,” where three generations of displaced persons have lived amid malnourishment and disease.
Organized by the MIT Center for International Studies.

4) Somerville Winter Farmers’ Market (Jan 9)
When:
Saturday, Jan 09, 2016 9:30a – 2:00p
Where:
Center for Arts at the Armory
191 Highland Ave
Somerville, MA 02143
Admission: FREE
Presenting the very best variety of products from New England farms and specialty vendors including vegetables, fruit, meat, cheese, fish, baked goods, and lots more.
Live music, delicious treats in two cafe areas and a chance to meet friends — Chase away the chill of even the coldest winter day with us!
December through March at 191 Highland Ave, Somerville, MA. Every Saturday from 9:30 AM to 2:00 PM (closed Dec 26, 2015)
For more information visit http://www.somwintermarket.org 

5) Kids’ Shows: Debbie and Friends (Jan 10)
When:
Sunday, Jan 10, 2016 10:30a – 11:30a
Where:
Coolidge Corner Theatre
290 Harvard St.
Brookline, MA 02446
Admission:
$9-12
Debbie and Friends concerts are fun for the whole family! Celebrate the release of the new Variety Show DVD with this multimedia kids/family concert. Proceeds from DVD sales will be donated to The Greater Boston Food Bank.

6) Urban Gardening Series: Water Conservation in the Garden (Jan 10)
When: Sunday, Jan 10, 2016 1:30p – 3:00p
Where:
Cambridge Public Library
449 Broadway
Cambridge, MA 01238
Admission: FREE
All gardeners aim to beautify the world. But we also have a responsibility to ensure that our actions contribute to, rather than detract from, the environment. Learn how water conservation practices can help you to create beautiful garden spaces without wasting precious water resources.
This class is part of our Urban Gardening Series a set of classes designed to help city dwellers grow healthy, sustainable, and beautiful urban gardens. Led by Society staff in partnership with the Cambridge Conservation Commission, these free classes take place at the Cambridge Public Library, Cambridge, MA.
Sunday, January 10, 10:30 a.m.-12 p.m.
Cambridge Public Library,
449 Broadway, Cambridge, MA 02138
Program Code: LEC6551
Instructor: Mark Richardson, Horticulture Director, New England Wild Flower Society
To register, go to:
For questions or registration help:
Contact the Public Programs Department at [email protected], or by phone (508) 877-7630, ext. 3303.

7) South Station Chess Simultaneous Exhibition (Jan 12)
When: Tuesday, Jan 12, 2016 12:00p – 2:00p
Where:
South Station
700 Atlantic Ave
Boston, MA 02111
Admission: FREE
Now at lunchtime: 12pm – 2pm
Come to South Station for a chance to play Grand Master Larry Christiansen – for free! A 3-Time American Chess Champion, Mr. Christiansen will play 25 games simultaneously.
All are welcome to play, or come watch Larry’s technique and skills.
This is a monthly event under the schedule board.