Looking for ways to keep the little ones busy while they’re out of class for the holidays? We have you covered.
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A multi-ethnic family of four wearing warm casual clothing. They are playing on a seesaw in a play park on a sunny winters day.
With schools letting out for winter break, kids and parents are looking for ways to fill their days. Fortunately, the region has plenty to offer families during the next couple weeks. Here are some ideas for keeping the little ones busy while out of class.
Join the circus: There are plenty of ways to clown around at one of Circus Harmony’s winter classes. Kids can learn how to juggle, tumble, walk the wire, and participate in aerial arts from December 20–30 at City Museum. Classes start at $15. Ages 6–15. 750 N. 16th.
Go on a safari: The Winter Wonderland attraction at Big Joel’s Safari in Wright City continues through December 30 with updated walking paths, seasonal animal displays, fire pits, colorful light displays, and refreshments. $8. Ages 2 and older. 4–9 p.m. 13187 State Highway M.
Have fun with history: As part of its Winter Getaway days, the Missouri History Museum is offering several family-friendly events from December 28–31. Children can make arts and crafts, such as Brazilian Carnaval masks and snowflake crows. There will also be face-painting stations and storytelling. Free. 5700 Lindell.
Become a ninja: Ultimate Ninjas St. Louis can help kids realize dreams of becoming secret superheroes at a winter camp from December 27–31. Campers can navigate obstacle courses as they learn to become miniature ninja warriors. $50–$225. Ages 6–12. 9 a.m.–12:30 p.m. 140 Long.
Get some air: Defy’s trampoline park in Ballwin is one of the region’s ultimate indoor playgrounds, complete with foam pits, jumps, dodgeball, obstacle courses, and more. $10.99–$27.99. 9 a.m.–9 p.m. 14820 Manchester.
Go to camp: At Richmond Heights’ Winter Break Camp, kids can stay busy with arts and crafts, sports, and more. Pack a lunch, swimsuit, and towel, and let your children pass the time at The Heights from December 27–30. $105 residents, $120 nonresidents. Ages 5–12. 8:30 a.m.–4 p.m. 8001 Dale.
See the stars: One of the best places to get to know our solar system: the Saint Louis Science Center’s McDonnell Planetarium. Recurring presentations include a seasonal show that focuses on the winter solstice and The Little Star That Could, the tale of a friendly star who travels the universe looking for planetary friends. $6. 5050 Oakland.
Say happy birthday to the Zoo’s Golden Girls: This year marked the 50th birthdays of Pearl, Donna, and Ellie, a trio of elderly Asian elephants at the Saint Louis Zoo. Stop by, and congratulate the pachyderms on another trip around the sun. Free. 1 Government.
Explore a bug’s world: Visiting the Butterfly House’s Tropical Conservatory for the annual Winter Jewels attraction, running through New Year’s Eve, gives guests the chance to view fairy gardens, say hello to gnomes, and interact with enchanting butterflies. Free for members, $5 for nonmember children, $8 for nonmember adults. 10 a.m.–4 p.m. 15050 Faust Park.
Experience The Magic House: There’s always something fun and interactive for kids at this Kirkwood institution. Current attractions include Daniel Tiger’s Grr-ific exhibit and Trike Town. There’s also a Noontime New Year’s Eve program, which allows families to ring in 2022 without having to stay up late. $12. 516 S. Kirkwood.