Archives for 2025

Zoos Aren’t Just for Kids: Senior Discounts, Tours, and Events

Countless individuals assume zoos exist just for school excursions or family get-togethers, yet these venues present much broader, unique value—particularly for aging individuals searching for uplifting experiences. For those in assisted living facilities, visiting the zoo can bring fresh air, mild yet beneficial exercise, and an opportunity to bond with nature.

Besides the animals, zoos increasingly serve seniors through special deals, customized tours, and themed events aimed at keeping each visit truly fun and rewarding.

Enjoy Significant Senior Discounts

Numerous zoos understand retirees and older guests often want affordable entertainment, so they frequently offer very considerable senior discounts on entry. By presenting valid identification, seniors may generally trim costs by 10% to 50% on admissions, making frequent trips very much more feasible under a consistent budget.

Several zoos also provide senior passes that often grant unlimited entry year-round, coupled with appealing extras like free parking and lower prices at cafés or souvenir shops.

Take Advantage of Senior-Friendly Tours

Zoos now closely recognize older guests’ preferences and have introduced especially well-designed guided excursions intended to serve their particularly distinct requirements. These experiences emphasize easy navigation, fully guaranteeing smooth strolls and furnishing consistently enough restful areas throughout the entire route.

Guides typically tailor their talks to include the zoo’s origins, conservation projects, and inside perspectives, delivering an inviting and truly informative adventure for everyone. Small groups enhance engagement and guarantee every participant can hear, see, and join fully.

Attend Special Senior Events

Beyond routine trips, countless zoos now present quite distinct senior-oriented events year-round. These could feature dawn strolls, bird-spotting activities, or private talks led by wildlife experts. Festive events such as holiday illuminations or warm-weather evening gatherings often significantly provide reduced admission rates for older guests.

These programs introduce variety and unify participants, helping seniors connect with peers who share their hobbies while taking in pleasant surroundings in truly meaningful ways.

Enjoy Health Benefits From Regular Visits

Zoo outings go beyond mere enjoyment; they can significantly contribute to enhanced well-being. Strolling between exhibits offers mild physical effort that truly aids both flexibility and circulation. Nature-filled landscapes and wildlife encounters help lessen tension, boost overall spirits, and promote cognitive engagement.

For older adults hoping to keep mobile and involved, routine zoo visits serve as a very pleasing component of a truly beneficial regimen without feeling like formal workouts.

Make it a Group Outing

Zoos offer terrific venues for collective adventures, serving as truly wonderful places to mingle with companions, relatives, or fellow seniors. Scheduling an outing with neighbors or dear ones enables shared experiences and creates truly unforgettable moments together. Group rates are frequently offered, and numerous zoos include communal meal facilities or picnic spots, allowing visitors to spend an entire day, all while relishing good company and truly captivating wildlife.

Summary

Zoos undoubtedly supply more than a quick glimpse at creatures—they grant seniors valuable avenues for enrichment, social mingling, and continued activity. Through worthwhile discounts, thoughtfully guided tours, and tailored gatherings for older patrons, zoos now stand as truly inclusive spots for absolutely every generation today.

Last Chance To See Samuel Oschin Air And Space Center Work In Progress Gallery at California Science Center

On display until May 11, 2025

Now is the final chance to see the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center Work in Progress Gallery at the California Science Center, before the gallery is closed on May 11, 2025.

Launched in June 2024, the Work in Progress Gallery offers a sneak peek at new exhibits and space artifacts planned for the future Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center addition to the California Science Center. After May 11, the artifacts will begin their relocation into the new building and will remain off display until the Air and Space Center opens to the public.

Among the highlights of the gallery are the Mercury-Redstone 2 Capsule* (1961), the Gemini 11 Capsule* (1966), and the Apollo Soyuz Command Module* (1975), alongside a full-scale engineering model of the Viking Lander**. This temporary location provides the rare opportunity to exhibit these capsules outside of their traditional display cases due to the optimal levels of light, temperature, and humidity inside the Work in Progress Gallery. Also on view is an Electron Rocket donated by Rocket Lab, a Dragon cargo spacecraft donated by SpaceX, and a Space Shuttle Main Engine, donated from Aerojet Rocketdyne, all on final view to the public before they are moved into their future home in the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center.

The Work in Progress Gallery also features exciting video and time-lapse media celebrating important milestones including space shuttle Endeavour’s historic arrival, the journey of External Tank ET-94, the transport of two solid rocket motors (SRMs), and the stacking process to assemble the world’s-only complete Space Shuttle System in launch position (Go for Stack); along with a detailed scale model and colorful large-scale renderings of the future Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center.

Photo shows L-R: Mercury-Redstone 2 Capsule*, Gemini 11 Capsule* and Apollo Soyuz Command Module*

 * All three capsules are on loan from the National Air and Space Museum, Smithsonian Institution

** On loan from Lockheed Martin Corporation

WHERE: 

California Science Center 

700 Exposition Park Drive 

Los Angeles 

CA 90037 

The California Science Center is a dynamic destination where families, adults, and children can explore the wonders of science through hands-on exhibits, live demonstrations, innovative programs, and awe-inspiring large-format movies. The California Science Center and IMAX Theater are located in historic Exposition Park just west of the Harbor (110) Freeway at 700 Exposition Park Drive, Los Angeles. Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. General admission to the Science Center is FREE. The California Science Center is proud to be accredited by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums (AZA) and the American Alliance of Museums (AAM). Visit at https://californiasciencecenter.org for more information.

WHEN: 

The California Science Center is open daily from 10am-5pm (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day). 

Work in Progress Gallery is open through May 11, 2025.

ENDEAVOURLA CAMPAIGN:
EndeavourLA is the California Science Center Foundation’s fundraising campaign that enabled the acquisition and previous temporary display of space shuttle Endeavour and supports our plans to build the Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center and sustain ongoing exhibits, programs, and operations. The project’s lead donors are the Mr. and Mrs. Samuel Oschin Family Foundation and the State of California, joined by principal donors Korean Air and the Kresa Family Foundation, along with numerous individuals, foundations, and corporate supporters.

The California Science Center Foundation is actively fundraising to complete this ambitious project with $375 million raised to date. Everyone can help realize this exciting vision for the future Samuel Oschin Air and Space Center, and donations at any level are welcomed. To contribute or learn more, go to EndeavourLA.org.

Credit: California Science Center.

Jane: Season 3 * Such An Important Show About Protecting The Environment And How To Save Our Precious Resources

The mission-driven series for kids and families is inspired by the work of world-renowned ethologist and conservationist, Dr. Jane Goodall, DBE, founder of the Jane Goodall Institute and a United Nations Messenger of Peace, who also makes a special appearance in the upcoming season. Ava Louise Murchison (“Reacher”) stars as Jane Garcia, a nine-year-old budding environmentalist on a quest to save endangered animals. Using her powerful imagination, Jane takes her best friends David, played by Mason Blomberg, and Greybeard the chimpanzee on epic adventures to help protect wild animals all around the world because, according to her idol Dr. Jane Goodall: “Only if we understand, will we care. Only if we care, will we help. Only if we help, can they be saved.”

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Kinsley H. comments, “I love the creativity of the TV series, Jane. It teaches kids about the importance of protecting our environment and puts a new twist on answering the question, “How are we going to save them?” Each episode features an animal and explains why it is important to the Earth.” See her full review below.


Jane: Season 3

By Kinsley H., KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 13

I love the creativity of the TV series, Jane. It teaches kids about the importance of protecting our environment and puts a new twist on answering the question, “How are we going to save them?” Each episode features an animal and explains why it is important to the Earth.

This show is about a girl named Jane (Ava Louise Murchison), who is passionate about saving endangered species and the environment. Her idol is famed animal rights activist, Jane Goodall, who helped ignite her passion for animals through a news broadcast. Jane loves that she shares the same name with Ms. Goodall, and she even names her stuffed chimpanzee, Greybeard, after one of the chimpanzees that Goodall observed in the wild. She works side-by-side with her best friend and neighbor, David (Mason Blomberg), to determine the best way to learn more about each episode’s featured creature. Jane believes that knowledge is important, because if you do not know about an animal, how can you help them? Each episode takes the viewer through a colorful and imaginative journey to save each animal and the planet.

Jane: Season 3 was so much fun to watch. The characters’ use of their imagination is impressive. I love how no place was off-limits for creativity. Jane and David use a shopping cart and a shopping basket during a grocery store visit to represent cages. In their minds, they are working together to tag a shark in the ocean for research. They even play pretend in the principal’s office, when they got into trouble for protecting a beehive. The principal leaves, and they immediately jump into their make-believe bee mobile to go “see” how they can solve the problem of the declining bee population. The computer generated animals are entertaining to watch. Jane and David interact with them as if they are real. Jane never has a dull moment, and the viewer is consistently learning new things every second of the show.

The show’s message is that people must speak out for those that can’t speak for themselves. Animals are becoming endangered and / or extinct, because no one is taking care of them. It is important to learn about all of the Earth’s creatures, otherwise, the results will be devastating. This show is very kid friendly and parents can feel comfortable letting their children watch this show.

Jane: Season 3 gets 5 out of 5 stars and I recommend it for ages 5 to 12. Season three premieres globally on Friday, April 18 on Apple TV+.

The Amateur * Love Makes People Do Crazy Things

Charlie Heller is a brilliant CIA decoder whose world comes crashing down when his wife dies in a London terrorist attack. When his supervisors refuse to take action, his intelligence becomes the ultimate weapon as he embarks on a dangerous trek across the globe to track down those responsible.

KIDS FIRST! Film Critic Juliana S. comments, “The Amateur is such a captivating film! Through storylines and characters the movie shows how one should live in the moment and appreciate everything that they have… The film’s message is that love makes people do crazy things, and one should never take something for granted.” See her full review below.

The Amateur

By Juliana S, KIDS FIRST! Film Critic, age 16

The Amateur is such a captivating film! Through storylines and characters the movie shows how one should live in the moment and appreciate everything that they have.

The story revolves around a young man, Charlie (Rami Malek), who is a hardworking and dedicated CIA agent. After he learns about a destructive terrorist attack in London in which his wife, Sarah (Rachel Brosnahan), is unfortunately killed, he is determined to take immediate, harsh action. However, when the CIA refuses to comply with his requests, Charlie decides to take matters into his own hands. The film follows his difficult journey as he tracks down those who are connected to this wife’s death, diving into the complicated emotional struggles that come with seeking revenge.

One actress who left me wanting to know more about her was Caitríona Balfe, who plays Inquiline, a sharp and humble spy. Balfe not only knows how to play her character, but she truly embodies the very essence of who Inquiline is. She uses her eyes to convey emotions that words could never fully express, from moments of harshness to soft tenderness. Caitríona Balfe’s emotional blue eyes are captivating, pulling the audience deeper and deeper into the story with every glance. Another actor who made me feel as though this is a true story is Rami Malek. Malek plays the determined, quick-witted Charlie Heller with a feeling of authenticity. As an award-winning actor, he shows just how deeply he can live through his character. Rami Malek uses his body language wonderfully to us through the emotional plot. When Charlie is scared but unable to vocalize it, his hands fidget or shake uncontrollably. In contrast, when he is fearless, his posture and movements become more powerful, and his steps more deliberate, showing a wide range of emotional transformations that can resonate deeply with any one person in the audience.

The film’s message is that love makes people do crazy things, and one should never take something for granted. For me, this film was very successful in motivating me to appreciate the small things in life and live in the moment.

I give The Amateur 5 out of 5 stars, and recommend it for ages 12 to 18, plus adults. The Amateur releases in theaters on April 11, 2025.

Rami Malek, Rachel Brosnahan, Jon Bernthal, Adrian Martinez, Julianne Nicholson, Laurence Fishburne, Evan Milton, Nick Mills, Holt McCallany, Joseph Millson, Marc Rissmann, Danny Sapani, Michael Stuhlbarg, Marthe Keller, Caitriona Balfe, James Hawes, Ken Nolan, Gary Spinelli, Joel B. Michaels, Hutch Parker, Dan Wilson, Volker Bertelmann, Martin Ruhe, Jonathan Amos, Martin Ware.

Books of the Week: April 25th, 2025

Some Bunnies
Illustrated by Lydia Nichols

An ode to cute and hippity-hop bunnies, this colorful, chunky board book is a work of art meant to be displayed face out on nursery bookshelves.

No matter where they live or what they look like, to those who love them, all bunnies are just right.

The bunnies in this bright, playful board book come in all shapes, colors, and sizes, and while each is special in their own way, they all have things in common like cute wiggly noses and feet that hippity hop. Every page turn reveals a new layer to Lydia Nichol’s adorable depiction of bunnies in their various homes of fields, barns, and houses. Perfect for bunny lovers of all ages, this rhyming story is a celebration of our long-eared hopping friends.

Rich with special effects like foil and embossing, Some Bunnies and the other LAYERED VIEW board books are a beautiful, playful way to celebrate the ways in which our differences make the world a diverse place.

A Kid’s Guide to Backyard Trees
By Felicia Brower • Illustrated by Nicole LaRue

Packed with captivating facts about the most common trees in the United States and Canada, this brightly illustrated guide is perfect for young nature lovers.

Learn all about the towering trees around you in this handy, easy-to-carry guidebook for explorers that shows you how to identify 40 trees that can be found in North America using their bark, leaves, flowers, fruits, and seeds.

Discover the wild world of trees as you learn about their life cycles, unique features of different types of trees, and why protecting them is important for the planet. Check the glossary for tree-related terms you might not know, keep track of the trees you’ve seen in a handy log, and try out a fun DIY project that lets you identify leaves at home.

With A Kid’s Guide to Backyard Trees, children can become expert nature explorers, no matter their age!

Such fun books! Both are a must-read for this time of the year!

Happy Spring!

Self Disclosure: I received free copies of the above books. Cover images and information were also provided.

Toys That Would Make Great Easter Gifts!

The Best STEM Toys That Make Learning Feel Like Play!

Magnet Pyramid Glow//$41.99 on Amazon

Ignite your creativity with the TOSY Magnet Pyramid Glow, a groundbreaking shape-shifting toy capable of transforming into over 1 billion shapes. Featuring 243 rare earth magnets, this patent-pending design unlocks endless possibilities for building, experimenting, and relaxing. The Magnet Pyramid Glow stands out with its included UV flashlight, which amplifies the design of its holographic stickers, creating a mesmerizing glow for an unforgettable visual experience. Built with durable, high-quality plastic and smooth, rounded edges, it ensures safe, enjoyable play for all ages. Perfect for kids 6 and up, teens, and adults, it enhances brain activity, boosts dexterity, and fosters STEAM-based learning. Whether playing solo, sharing fun with friends, or gifting something unique, the Magnet Pyramid Glow offers an exciting fusion of creativity and innovation.

Magnet Pyramid Stone//$39.99 on Amazon

Discover limitless possibilities with the TOSY Magnet Pyramid Stone, a revolutionary shape-shifting toy designed to transform into over 1 billion shapes. Equipped with 243 rare earth magnets, this patent-pending design inspires endless creativity, from intricate builds to calming tactile play. The Magnet Pyramid Stone features a sleek holographic finish that adds an elegant touch to its durable, high-quality plastic construction. With smooth, rounded edges, it ensures a safe and seamless experience for users of all ages. Designed for kids 6 and up, teens, and adults, it promotes brain activity, enhances fine motor skills, and supports STEAM education. Whether as a fun activity, stress reliever, or thoughtful gift, the Magnet Pyramid Stone blends sophistication with imaginative play.

TOSY Magnet Cube 2×2 //$14.99 on Amazon

The TOSY Magnet Cube 2×2 is a unique and modern puzzle cube featuring 64 rare earth magnets for seamless, smooth movement and endless creative possibilities. Its innovative design allows for stress-relieving play and promotes focus and dexterity. Made from durable, safe materials, this cube is perfect for all ages, encouraging creativity and STEAM-based learning. Compact and fun, it’s an excellent choice for fidgeting, relaxing, or challenging your brain.

These are just so much fun!

PEEPS® EggMazing Egg Decorator + Egg-cessory Pack (Hey Buddy Hey Pal)

This next product is just great for decorating Easter eggs with the kids!

PEEPS® once again is a part of the EggMazing family with the new colors for the PEEPS® EggMazing Egg Decorator! Just like the other decorators, this bunny-shaped one holds and spins hard-boiled eggs while you use the included PEEPS® markers to decorate! New colors include the iconic PEEPS® Blue, PEEPS® Pink and PEEPS® Purple!

I love how easy this is to use and kids can be creative!

Another fun way to be creative! Photo Credit: SoCal City Kids.

BIZYBOO’s Easter Colorable Egg Busy Bag Scavenger Hunt (Vango Toys): These award-winning Hide ’N’ Seek Busy Bags are now colorable! They are the perfect mess-free, on-the-go, and low-fuss companion! Using both written and visual prompts found on an attached card, children will have a blast prodding and shifting the beads around, seeking out the Easter objects! Not only do they keep little ones engaged, but these bags also foster learning and motor skill development and encourage independence. Each set includes 2 busy bags and 6 bright markers, allowing little hands to color, decorate, and personalize their own Easter-themed characters. A perfect Easter egg-decorting alternative!
Available on Amazon in March (MSRP: $9.99; Ages 2+). My little reviewer had a blast coloring these!

So much fun!

PLAYMOBIL Rabbit Family: Take care of the furriest of friends with PLAYMOBIL’s Starter Pack Rabbit Family! With the included teacher and student figures, kids can engage these adorable class pets in endless classroom fun. Help the rabbits hop with excitement as they enjoy a yummy treat of carrots and grain, and care for them with the included accessories. This charming set is perfect for little animal lovers and makes a fantastic Easter-themed gift, bringing springtime fun and bunny-themed play to any basket!
Available on playmobil.com and Amazon (MSRP: $19.99; Ages 4-10).

Loveté Bows (Vango Toys)

I just love this next product!

Loveté inspires girls to express their creativity through stylish, hands-on fashion projects with unique hair bow tying sets. Each 3-pack set includes materials to craft three distinct bows using fashionable fabrics and embellishments, with themes like Prima Ballerina, Dark Academia, and Spring Fling. Perfect for girls’ nights, personal fashion, and gifting, including Easter baskets! Available in both multi-pack and single-pack options, these sets make a fun and creative Easter gift.
Available on Amazon and Walmart in March (MSRP: $19.99; Ages: 8+)

Mario Kart fun!

Mario Kart- Mario vs. Yoshi will be a hit!

  • Mario Kart™ – Mario vs. Yoshi
  • Carrera FIRST children’s beginner slot car racing track set
  • Official Mario Kart™ licensed product
  • Track length: 7.87-ft.
  • Cars included: Mario and Yoshi
  • Battery operated – Requires 4 Type “C” batteries(not included)
  • Recommended for ages 3 and up

I like that even young kids can play with this one! It’s sure to be a hit! You can also find on Amazon.com.

This next one is recommended for ages 10+.

Have a James Bond Fan? They will love this one!

Kit Features:

  • All new tooling
  • Innovative easy-click system allows for quick assembly without cement
  • Film-correct details include an extendable bulletproof shield for the rear window, a removable roof section over the passenger seat, and rotating number plates
  • Various detail pieces including the simulated tire slashers, machine guns, and battering rams can be built in the extended positions as seen in the film
  • Highly detailed interior features many separate components
  • Authentic water-slide decals and stickers to build 007’s car as seen in the film
  • Molded in silver, black, and clear with chrome plated parts and soft black tires
  • Film-correct details include an extendable bulletproof shield for the rear window, a removable roof section over the passenger seat, and rotating number plates.

Also available on Amazon.com!

Self Disclosure: I received free samples of the above products to facilitate this holiday post. Some images were provided.

Easter Books for the Kids!

Keith Baker’s holiday spin on the New York Times bestselling Peas continues this spring with HAP-PEA EASTER (on sale 2/2/25)! The weather is warming, and Keith’s peas couldn’t be more perfect to show off all the fun that comes with the holiday and spring season. 

From sprouting flowers and gentle showers to eggs decorated every which way, there’s plenty of excitement to be had on Easter with the peas! Don’t forget the ladybug seek-and-find hidden alongside a special Easter Bunny Pea on every page for readers to discover.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Keith Baker has written and illustrated many acclaimed picture books for young children, including the New York Times bestselling LMNO Peas1-2-3 PeasLittle Green Peas, Hap-pea All YearLMNO Pea-quelMy Octopus Arms, and No Two Alike. He lives in Seattle.

New to the bestselling INDESTRUCTIBLES series

A fun way to teach babies about Easter traditions! The book is rip-proof and waterproof! Perfect for babies and toddlers! Easy to find at https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/indestructibles-amy-pixton/1138678007

They also have a Passover book available!

Self Disclosure: I received free copies of the above books to facilitate this holiday book post.

Egg-citing Easter Basket Gift Goodies!

Sweet Chaos Drizzles

Move over chocolate, drizzled popcorn is the new treat to give this Easter! Sweet Chaos offers mouthwatering flavors to tempt your loved one’s taste buds, such as Cold Stone Creamery Cake Batter and Peanut Butter! Sweet Chaos Drizzles are Gluten Free, made with Non-GMO popcorn, and have NO artificial colors or flavors. Handmade kettle corn made by real people. Non-GMO popcorn is popped in Coconut Oil, with just the right amount of Cane Sugar and Sea Salt, and then sprinkled with delectable drizzles! For Easter, the Cold Stone Creamery Cake Batter popcorn will be sold in individual bags at Dollar Tree stores. Learn more at https://sweetchaos.com/.  It’s so tasty!

Wiley Wallaby Fruitrageous & Sourrageous Drops

Wiley Wallaby offers a large variety of soft and chewy Fruitrageous and Sourrageous Drops that satisfy your craving for a fun treat! Less sugar, fat free and absolutely no dairy makes Wiley Wallaby the candy you feel better about tucking in Easter baskets, too. Wiley Wallaby Sourrageous Drops have a chewy red inside with a sour crunchy outside – keeping your taste buds on their toes! Fruitrageous Drops have a fruity licorice inside with a sweet candy shell on the outside. These two treats will be a fun addition to any Easter basket! Visit www.wileywallaby.com and Amazon.com.

Chocolate is a must for any Easter Basket!

Alter Eco Chocolate – Their truffle thins melt in your mouth, while their dark chocolate bars (with flavors like Sea Salt and Super Blackout) offer a bold, guilt-free indulgence. And for a true Easter treat, their classic truffles…made with velvety, organic coconut oil instead of dairy, are a must-have for a sophisticated, melt-in-your-mouth experience. Plus, their commitment to regenerative farming and eco-friendly packaging makes them a sustainable choice for Easter gifting. I absolutely love the Truffle thins but the chocolate bar Brown Butter is my new favorite chocolate bar!

Good enough to eat but don’t!

This next one is perfect for the older kids and Moms too!

Delight Naturals offers a unique range of lip balm flavors, including their Easter bundle with flavors like Jelly Bean, Marshmallow Peep and Cadbury Creme Egg. These lip balms are made with clean, food-grade ingredients, in Idaho.

I personally like the Creme Egg! They are very affordable too! Only $3.99 each! Available on Amazon and Walmart.

Self Disclosure: I received free samples of the above items. Images were also provided.

Happy Easter!