# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Do you want to create a stunning work of art with your kids while enjoying time together as a family? Join the FREE Family Canvas Challenge! At the end of the challenge, you'll have a beautiful, collaborative, family canvas to hang up or give to a loved one.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
WhatchamaDRAWit | Coloring, Game, Kids, Fun, Drawing

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Fun, fast and imaginative drawing game with 110 instructional cards.	

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Art Out of the Box Solo Drawing Game | Sketching, Games

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This box of 80 prompts combines subject cards and technique cards to inspire ideas for what to draw and how to get more creative with your drawing.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Leave adulthood behind and return to childhood in this limited-time, immersive art pop up. Journey through 17 rooms capturing iconic moments from the playground to the school dance. Along the way you'll discover tastes, sounds, and even smells that bring you back to the best days of your life.

More than just a series of photo backdrops, The FOMO Factory is designed to truly transport you to another time, to introduce you to your inner child, and to allow people to engage in the healing process of play.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
The FOMO Factory - An Immersive Journey Through Childhood Nostalgia

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Leave adulthood behind and return to childhood in this limited-time, immersive art pop up. Journey through 17 rooms capturing iconic moments from the playground to the school dance. Along the way you'll discover tastes, sounds, and even smells that bring you back to the best days of your life.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Color Factory opens in New York City, NYC, August 2018, bringing a whole new palette to a 20,000 square foot space in SoHo, featuring a roster of talented artists, designers and makers who will tell their unique color stories and engage the senses in unexpected ways.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Seismique Houston's Art Experience of Tomorrow is Here!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Seismique is a mind-bending, interactive experience filled with immersive exhibits and stunning displays designed to entertain and inspire!

# data[].attributes.body
Spark imagination, get creative, and have fun making art with The Met! Follow along with #MetKids to design your own masterpieces inspired by works of art.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Create Your Own Art with #MetKids for #CampYouTube #WithMe

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Spark imagination, get creative, and have fun making art with The Met! Follow along with #MetKids to design your own masterpieces inspired by works of art.

# data[].attributes.body
Enjoy Storytime from home! Join us every Thursday to look, listen, sing, and have fun with picture books. Recommended for families with children ages 18 months to 6 years.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Enjoy Storytime from home! Join us every Thursday to look, listen, sing, and have fun with picture books. Recommended for families with children ages 18 mont...

# data[].attributes.body
Mrs. Ballow's favorite Virtual Art Museum for kids.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.provider_name
The Metropolitan Museum of Art, i.e. The Met Museum

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
#MetKids is a digital feature made for, with, and by kids.

# data[].attributes.headline
Homemade "Clay-Dough" - White glue recipe (a.k.a. "Cold Porcelain) 

# data[].attributes.subject
Homemade "Clay-Dough" - White glue recipe (a.k.a. "Cold Porcelain) 

# data[].attributes.body
Another clay-dough recipe using white glue, cornstarch, and a few other ingredients. Be warned...this one can get MESSY!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
You know the ingredients your kiddos like to stockpile for making slime? Use this simple DIY recipe to learn how to make air dry clay with everyday, household ingredients. This DIY clay is silky smooth and pure white; a super sensory activity no matter what you choose to make with it!

Air dry clay ingredients....

Grab some white glue. We buy Elmer's glue by the gallon because it so much cheaper than picking up the little bottles at the store. Head to the pantry and grab cornstarch and white vinegar. Lastly you'll need a bit body lotion and baby oil.

What a weird combination, right?

These air dry clay ingredients may sound a little odd and a lot sticky. But in the right proportions instead of slime you get a super smooth white clay that will air dry perfectly, no heating required at any step. And best of all is the fact that all of those ingredients common.

This DIY clay is a perfect replacement for the more expensive store bought air dry clay or polymer clay like Sculpey.

Updated to add this DIY clay will not be the same consistency of polymer clay. While it can be a substitute for polymer clay in some applications it is not meant to be a replica of polymer clay. This DIY clay is super soft. It is perfect for lots of arts and crafts projects and an amazing sensory experience just to follow the recipe and make your own clay!

How to make air dry clay, the easy way....

Mix all air dry clay ingredients together in a large mixing bowl till smooth. Chances are your DIY clay will still be sticky mess at this point. Do not panic- this is normal and it will get better!

Start with the ingredient amounts listed below and slowly add bits more cornstarch until the mixture can hold no more. Add just a little at a time. Soon the air dry clay will go from being sticky to smooth, stretchy, and super soft. You'll know you have added enough cornstarch when it becomes difficult to mix more in.

There's quite a bit of wiggle room for getting this mixture "just right" so don't hesitate to let your kiddos get in there and do the dirty work of mixing and measuring!

Prepare your counter....

Prepare a clean counter with extra cornstarch spread out much like you are rolling out a pie crust. Splash a little cornstarch on your hands as well. Turn clay out onto counter and knead it like dough. If it's still sticky- again with the cornstarch.

Add tiny bits of cornstarch at a time and the air dry clay recipe will absorb it. Try to stop adding cornstarch before the clay starts to feel dry and stiff. We have revived air dry clay that got a bit too dry with a tiny splash of additional baby oil.

This process totally reminds me of making a pie. Not that I make many pies of my own but I have great memories of my mom and grandma making them. The great thing about letting your kids take part in this mixing of the homemade clay recipe is that this isn't rocket science.

It doesn't have to be perfect for it to be super fun, a great memory, and a totally usable ball of homemade air dry clay to craft with!

Ready to use air dry clay....

At this point your DIY clay is ready to use. Mold it, make , let it dry- it's really that simple. The drying time will depend on the thickness of the finished clay product. Projects that are super thick will take longer to dry while thinner projects made with this air dry clay recipe should be dry in a day or so.

I've used many DIY clay recipes that looked awesome when they were wet but when they dried they left behind a cracked mess and tear stained cheeks of a little artist. Art that ends in tears is not my favorite. We have made this air dry clay recipe over and over and have never had a cracked project. I'm not saying that it can't happen but it's more than likely you'll end up with a great finished project. That's as much as you can ask for in the world of kid's art!

Preparing your air dry clay ahead of time...

If you're not ready to use your air dry clay quite yet or you have leftovers you can wrap it up and save it for later. Spread a layer of cling wrap with a squirt or two of lotion and wrap tightly around your DIY clay. This keeps the air dry clay from sticking to the wrap; not necessary but definitely helpful. Put in the fridge and store for up to a week.

Now that you know how to make air dry clay the possibilities are endless.

Air dry clay texture pendants....

These are such a fun, simple activity that results in the sweetest little necklace pendants. This is a great project when you're looking for a gift or finished product that really "pops" but isn't a cookie cutter craft! If you're working with a larger group these also take very little clay and very little storage room while they dry!

Leaf bowls from DIY clay....

These leaf bowls are another great example of how to use this DIY clay. These are so pretty and colorful. Nature provides the shape and details of these bowls. We finished ours with watercolor and oil pastel but there are lots of possibilities! These are a great project for any age or skill level. I can see these being really successful in class with kids or adults that may have special needs and need accommodations.

Colored air dry clay....

Another fun possibility is to learn how to make colored air dry clay! Add one additional ingredient and making air dry clay turns into a color mixing experiment. The finished product won't even need to be painted, the color is already there!

Every single share help me to bring you more free printables and fun projects like this DIY clay!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Air Dry Clay- An Easy DIY Clay Recipe - The Kitchen Table Classroom

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
You know the ingredients your kiddos like to stockpile for making slime? Use this simple DIY recipe to learn how to make air dry clay with everyday, household ingredients. This DIY clay is silky smooth and pure white; a super sensory activity no matter what you choose to make with it!

# data[].attributes.headline
Homemade "Clay-Dough" - Salt Dough recipe

# data[].attributes.subject
Homemade "Clay-Dough" - Salt Dough recipe

# data[].attributes.body
All you need is flour, salt, water!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
The Perfect Salt Dough Recipe * Maria Louise Design

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Read along and learn how to make the perfect salt dough recipe to use for any creative project. This dough comes out bright white and smooth everytime!

# data[].attributes.headline
Understanding the emotional world of children

# data[].attributes.subject
Understanding the emotional world of children

# data[].attributes.body
Parenting Special Needs magazine

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Understanding the Emotional World of Children

Paula Kettula 2020-09-03 19:07:56

How to connect with your child to a happy and fulfilling relationship
Good news for you amazing parents out there: there might be a simple reason (and easy solution) to your child's challenging behaviors! Learning to understand your child's emotional needs, and how to respond to them, might do the trick!

Learning to interpret your child's behavioral cues, and seeing through the negative behaviors into the emotional world behind them, will help you connect with your child in deeper ways and meet his/her emotional needs.

Instead of getting frustrated and engaging in power struggles, it is important to understand that children have a natural need for power and control. Unless this need is met in appropriate ways, it comes out in unwanted behaviors.

Don't worry about spoiling your kids - through the process of meeting the natural developmental needs, children gain healthy self-esteem and confidence. You will actually set them up for success in life.

Here is a list of basic emotional needs and practical advice on how to start meeting them.
Unconditional Love
Loving your child is easy right? I wish it was so...

No matter how much you love your child, if your child does not feel it, does it matter? To do this, parents MUST connect with their children in deep ways, and learn to understand what makes them feel loved. It is all about the felt-feeling inside your little one.
Practical ideas for unconditional love
* Figure out how your child feels love by discovering what their "love language" is. A good resource to learn more about this is Dr. Gary Chapman & Ross Campbell's, M.D. book, The 5 Love Languages of Children.

* Refrain from showing conditional love in the form of punishments, consequences, holding affection or rewards. Examples of conditional love are:

* "If you pick up your mess, then we can play"

* Your attention and connection should be unconditional and not related to performance.

*"Here is $5 for the A's you got in school" *This teaches your child that his self-worth is related to good grades vs the person s/he is and promotes external motivation *"You hit your little brother - take a time out!" *This undermines your child's feelings of anger and creates an experience of humiliation, shame and embarrassment.
Watch video click here.
Attention

I've spoken with many confused parents during the pandemic who wonder why their child keeps seeking attention despite them being at home with them ALL DAY.

You may be in the same room, physically, but are you present (not working)? For children to feel seen and heard, they need your undivided attention - presence of body and mind.

For help building connection, I recommend The Power of Showing Up by Dr. Daniel Siegel and Dr. Tina Payne Bryson. It describes how to help children feel safe, seen, soothed, and secure.

When you create connection with your child, they have the capacity to hear your correction. Dr. Laura Markham from Aha! Parenting says that "90% of interaction should be about connection so that 10% can be about correction."

Practical ideas for attention:

*Create small moments of attention throughout the day by offering gentle touch, kind words, and eye contact *Put your phone aside *Give your child undivided attention when s/he needs it, especially after time away from each other *Play with your child

Power & Control

Power struggles are a sign that your child may need more power and control. The easiest solution to end power struggles is to let go of your need to be right! Positioning yourself as "I am right" and "you are wrong" creates a lose-lose scenario for everyone.

By allowing your child to exert natural need for power - s/he does't have to fight for it.

Practical ideas for power & control:

*Allow your child control of their room and make it their own *Involve your child in making big and small decisions like what school they want to attend or what the family is eating for dinner *Arrange your child to have age appropriate responsibilities *Always offer choices *State what is happening and ask you child what s/he needs to do instead giving a command: "We leave in 10 minutes, what do you need to do to get ready?" versus "Hurry! We need to go now! Put on your shoes!"

Playfulness

Play and having fun is essential for your child's normative development and his/her ability to relieve stress. Allow as much free play as possible - play is crucial for learning social skills, physical, emotional, and brain development. Without play, children don't thrive.

Practical ideas for playfulness:

*Make daily routines (eating, bedtime) fun and playful instead of stressful *Allow things to get messy *Shift tense situations by getting playful and having fun *Play when they ask

Listening & Feeling Important

Children don't listen to parents if they don't feel listened to. Pay attention next time your child yells "You're not listening!!!" Whether or not you agree - it's the child's interpretation that matters. Recognize this disconnection and repair.

Practical ideas for listening & feeling Important:

*Ask your child's views and options on different matters *Give undivided attention when they speak - ask follow-up questions *Avoid lecturing, giving advice or solutions

Exploration

Children ages 0-6 are exploratory learners (ex. when babies look around the room, turn their heads towards sounds, or put things in their mouths).

Children at this age want to touch EVERYTHING - allow as much freedom as possible. It's natural to explore - literally in their DNA!

Practical ideas for exploration:

*Nurture exploration by creating opportunities for it at home
*Invite your child to explore nature outside. Ask them to tell you what they see and observe. *Let them choose their extracurricular activities, and to change their minds.

Keep these emotional needs in mind, try the practical ideas, and you just might be shocked at the difference you see!

About the Author Paula Kettula is a licensed clinical social worker with over 20 years of experience working with children and families. She runs and operates her own private practice, and she is the creator and host of the popular online parenting series, "Becoming a Peaceful Parent" summit.

Links mentioned in this article or video

FREE GIFT

Paula Kettula offers us a gift of Free Access to six incredible interviews by world's leading parenting experts.
Becoming a Peaceful Parent Free Online Summit
FREE EBOOK

Download the ebook " Helping Our Kids Go Back to School Well" from Resilience Now for Parents

Published by Parenting Special Needs Magazine. View All Articles.

This page can be found at https://magazine.parentingspecialneeds.org/article/Understanding+the+Emotional+World+of+Children/3722213/667255/article.html.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Understanding the Emotional World of Children

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Paula Kettula 2020-09-03 19:07:56 How to connect with your child to a happy and fulfilling relationship Good news for you amazing parents out there: there might be a simple reason (and easy solution) to your child's challenging behaviors! Learning to understand your child's emotional needs, and how to respond to them, might do the trick!

# data[].attributes.body
Parenting Special Needs magazine

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
In our latest issue, we brought you a plethora of ideas to create a safe and fun summer camp at home. Now, we want to help you create family fun with a staycation, and other fun activities you can do from the comfort of your home.

Staycation Destinations - Fun Things to Do Around Town

Because traveling by plane is a high-risk activity, many people are forgoing their typical summer vacations and staying home. Of course, you can "get away" and spend a few nights at a local hotel (medium risk), but even that may be stressful for some people worried about venturing out amid increasing Covid-19 numbers in some states.

So, the question becomes, how can you plan a staycation in your own town that will be meaningful and safe for your family?

The options below will help you find ways to enjoy your summer vacation, keeping in mind the need to wear masks and social distance at all times:

Go to the Beach (low-risk) - avoid crowded beaches and try to find quiet, out of the way locations.

Visit Garden Centers or Nurseries (low to medium-risk) - creating a garden can be a lot of fun for the whole family. Call ahead of time and ask the nursery for the quietest time of the week for your visit.

Go on a Picnic (low to medium-risk) - of course, picnicking in your backyard is the safest option, and you do not need to wear masks. If you go to a park, remember to social distance, and bring your masks.

"Go" to the Movies (medium-risk) - make a movie night at home, complete with popcorn, candy, nachos, and other movie treats. Many towns are offering drive in movies this summer - check and see if that is an option near you.

Visit a Water Park (medium-risk) - with a 50% capacity, and chlorinated water, virus transmission is a bit lower. However, children have difficulty with social distancing so keep that in mind.

Create a Scavenger Hunt in Your Neighborhood (low-risk) - go in search of things you may have hidden, or those you have never noticed before.

Get Outside in Nature (low to medium-risk) - nature trails, parks, botanical gardens, even zoos, may all offer ways to escape the confines of the home. Fresh air and increased vitamin D help to improve health and emotional well-being. You can also gather leaves, rocks, and twigs to use in art projects.

Volunteering (low to medium-risk) - you may find some animal or nature organizations in your area that could use some volunteers for a few hours a week. Pick activities that your child can do and will enjoy.

We are omitting places such as museums, movie theaters, and art centers due to the inherent risk of spreading the virus in smaller, enclosed spaces. Search "things to do near me" online for a list of activities and places to visit in your area.

Go Camping - Backyard Style

Advertisement:

Pitch a tent in your backyard and spend the night under the stars. You can also throw a blanket or sheet over a tree branch, and "pretend" you are camping for a few hours. Tell silly stories, make smores, and sing songs. This is a great way to use your homemade instruments for a fun evening. If you are in an apartment, you can also go camping on your patio - get creative, have fun!

For those who prefer staying inside, turn your living room into a campsite using blankets for a tent, turning off the lights, and turning on the flashlights. Load the floor up with sofa cushions and pillows for added comfort.

Tune In - Meaningful Ways to Watch TV

Aside from your child's favorite tv show or movie, there is a world of wonder waiting for you to explore. Disney +, the new streaming service, offers all of Disney Nature films as well as National Geographic shows. You and your family can travel the world, learn about animals, and see amazing sites that you can then incorporate into fun activities. For example, if you are watching a show about Italy, make pasta for dinner. Make monkey sock puppets as an activity during the day, and then use them to act out what you watch in a show about monkeys that night.

Other streaming services also offer a variety of entertaining and enlightening shows and movies you can check out. As we mentioned in the staycation above, make movie nights a fun family activity where everyone can unwind.

Become a Star - Making Fun, Meaningful Home Videos

Many people are still quarantining and unable to visit family and friends. Making home videos is a great way to stay in touch. Chantai and her daughter Kailee have been making cooking videos and sharing them on social media. Readers enjoy watching these videos, while learning how to make a tasty recipe. You and your child can do the same. Even if you do not want to share it on Facebook, you can still send it to family and friends to watch and enjoy.

Other options for fun home videos include:

In case you missed it, or want to go through it again, don't forget to check out Part 1 - fun ideas for Summer Camp at home in our latest issue.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
How to Plan a Safe and Fun Summer (Part 2)

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
In our latest issue, we brought you a plethora of ideas to create a safe and fun summer camp at home. Now, we want to help you create family fun with a staycation, and other fun activities you can do from the comfort of your home.

# data[].attributes.body
Projects, exhibits, and other fun stuff from the Tate Museum in London, England.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Play free games and quizzes, find art activities, explore homework help and share your art with Tate Kids. The best art website for kids.

# data[].attributes.body
Become a contributor or just browse around to see what lives in your "backyard."

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.authors[].name
Dzivula Gube
Marine Conservationist & Underwater Photographer, Kenya

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
iNaturalist is a social network for naturalists! Record your observations of plants and animals,
share them with friends and researchers, and learn about the natural world.

# data[].attributes.body
Daily, short videos with science-based project instruction, information and inspiration from the Children's Museum of Houston

# data[].attributes.body
A list of 100 murals to see in Houston

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
A Guide to Houston's Most Colorful Murals and Walls

Colorful walls are having a moment, and we aren't mad about it at all! Indeed, as you can tell around here, that's a trend we fully support. In fact, we first published our Houston Mural Guide in September 2016. At the time, the guide contained only 35. Well, now, we bring you the fourth update to the mural guide. And it's a good one...

Now, the mural guide contains details on over 100 of Houston's most colorful walls!

Yep - this update to the guide contains another 20 brand new walls for you to explore! Plus, we've added updated notes to other walls for changes that we are aware of.

In fact, you can always count on us to provide the most up-to-date, most comprehensive guide to Houston's colorful walls! You can expect at least a quarterly update to the guide, as the mural landscape is always changing and evolving.

About our Mural Guides

As we were putting together the concept of featuring the best of Houston's wall art, our goal was for this to be, first and foremost, useful... Useful for bloggers, useful for photographers, useful for all those who appreciate art, and those people looking for things to do in Houston.

Therefore, this guide is more than just pretty pictures. Sure, it starts with strong photography. But it moves beyond just that. We've included tons of practical tips and insights regarding safety, parking, the best time for photographing, and more. Plus, we've tried to give you a sense of size and scale of the murals, via the photos we've chosen. And of course, we've nailed down the exact addresses for you!

Without further ado, we present to you our Houston Mural Guide...

Address: 1513 St. Emanuel, Houston, TX 77003

Produced by Hue Mural Fest

Safety and tips on parking: Ample parking on an often empty parking lot.

Best time for shooting: Any time of the day works as it faces north. There are quite a few more murals in the immediate area. Allot some time to explore!
Note: this is one of the most widely known murals in Houston.
Safety and tips on parking: Parking is easily available by the side of the street and on parking lot during business hours.

Best time for shooting: Mornings work best.

Wall 3 : The Original Sugar & Cloth Color Wall

Address: 3302 Canal St., Houston, TX 77003

Safety and tips on parking: parking is available on the side by the gas station or in front of the wall.

Best time for shooting: early and late evening before sun goes down, or during cloudy/overcast days.
January 2017 update: Sadly, this wall no longer exists.
Address: Lawndale Art Center, 4912 Main St., Houston, TX 77002

Safety and tips on parking: parking available on site. Note that occasionally there might be indigents asking for spare change.

Best time for shooting: It can be worked out at different times of the day from morning to early evening, depending on how you like the light on your images. Note that this mural changes yearly. And while you are there, walk around the corner to a fun glass wall within that same building, for some extra pictures!
September 2018 update: Unfortunately, this wall has been painted over. It is now two tones of solid grey.
Wall 5 : Houston is Inspired by Gonzo247

Address: 313 Travis St., Houston, TX 77002

Safety and tips on parking: Metered parking is available in the streets a block and a couple of blocks away from the mural. The parking lot where mural is located is not public. Area is relatively safe as you are right in the middle of downtown, and you might as well explore some of the area by foot while you are there!

Best time for shooting: early morning during the weekends! You definitely want to try to head here during the weekends and as early in the morning or on a Sunday, when you can hopefully find the parking lot without cars. During the weekdays, it is a game of chance, as there are often cars parked on the assigned reserved spaces right in front of the mural.

Wall 6 : Synchronicity of Color "Art Boxes" by Margo Sawyer

Safety and tips on parking: Discovery Green is a park within downtown, so metered parking and underground parking are available within the immediate park area. The park is a beautiful green space in the heart of downtown. Take some time to enjoy it!

Best time for shooting: Any time of the day as the art boxes have multiple sides, and you can always find a side that might work with the available light. As shown in the photos above, note that there is both a red-centric piece and a blue-centric piece.

Wall 7 : Gorilla for Houston Zoo by Sebastien "Mr. D" Boileau

Address: 2201 Washington Ave., Houston, TX 77007

Safety and tips on parking: Mural is adjacent to Catalina Coffee; park by Catalina Coffee or the side streets.

Best time for shooting: morning light is best, you just have to be patient as often tenants front Catalina Coffee park there to grab coffee.

More wall photos can be seen here.

Wall 8 : Dripped Nails Mural by Dual

Safety and tips on parking: available parking on site by Dripped nails.

Best time for shooting: faces west, morning light is best. Get a great mani and pedi while you are there! In fact, we featured Dripped in our Guide to Houston's best nail salons.

More wall photos can be seen here.

Wall 9 : Preservons la Creation by Sebastien "Mr. D" Boileau

Address: 2800 San Jacinto Street, Houston, TX 77004
Note: This is the single biggest mural in Houston
Safety and tips on parking: parking will have to be street side or behind the wall on the building where mural is located. Always exercise caution in area as there are often homeless wandering close by.

Best time for shooting: late afternoons and early evenings work best, or cloudy days. But mural is enormous, so you can find an area of the mural that work for you at any time of the day with the available light!

Wall 10 : Hummingbird Wall by StudioFlop

Address: Frenetic Theater, 5102 Navigation Blvd., Houston, TX 77011

Produced by Hue Mural Fest

Safety and tips on parking: Parking is limited on the side of the mural, but if you go early in the morning you should have no trouble finding a spot.

Best time for shooting: Mornings and cloudy days work great. Avoid afternoons unless it is cloudy. In the evenings, the sun can be quite harsh on the mural.

Wall 11 : Lady, Fox, and Bear Mural by Michael Rodriguez

Address: Winter Street Studios, 2101 Winter St., Houston, TX 77007 (Mural is on back of the building)

Safety and tips on parking: Mural is on the back of Winter Street Studios, so parking is ample and easy, though the area can seem a bit desolate at times.

Best time for shooting: late afternoons and early evenings.

Wall 13 : Dogwood Flowers Wall

Address: The Dogwood, 2403 Bagby St., Houston, TX 77006

Safety and tips on parking: Parking is available on the street near the bar and at a shopping center adjacent to the bar.

Best time for shooting: early mornings when restaurant is closed. Be aware that you'll have to get creative with angles as there are trees and greenery in front of wall.

More wall photos can be seen here and here.

Wall 14 : Changing Language, Changing Worlds Mural by Dual

Address: The Printing Museum, 1324 W Clay St., Houston, TX 77019

Safety and tips on parking: Parking is available street side in front of mural.

Best time for shooting: Early mornings or late afternoons to avoid harsh light, or days with cloud covering.

More wall photos can be seen here.

Wall 15 : Dragons Wall by ArtKungfu

Address: Frenetic Theater, 5102 Navigation Blvd., Houston, TX 77011

Safety and tips on parking: Parking is limited on the side of the mural. Don't park on Navigation Blvd as you will block the mural. Park on side street.

Side note: mural is composed of two dragons - one with pink, blue, and blacks, and the other with greens, blues, and purple.

Best time for shooting: This one is tricky. You will have to venture very early in the morning to avoid having cars parked right in front of it.

Wall 16 : The Abstract Happy Beach Wall by Zosen and Mina Hamada

Address: 800 Chartres St., Houston, TX 77003

Produced by Hue Mural Fest

Safety and tips on parking: Parking is available right in front of wall on lot in which mural is located, as long as there are no events going on at the baseball or soccer stadiums close by. Otherwise, metered parking is available street side. Occasionally, you might find indigents wondering on that lot. Try to go with a friend. Driving recommended, not walking.

Best time for shooting: Early mornings have worked best for us for good even light, but cloudy days work great as well! Only a few blocks from there is another favorite coffee shop and cafe, Tout Suite, just in case you are in need for a refreshment.

More wall photos can be seen here and here.

Wall 18 : American Queen Mural by Michael Savoie

Address: 3100 Smith Street, Houston, TX 77006

Safety and tips on parking: Parking lot available in front of mural.

Best time for shooting: early mornings and early evenings. Overcast days work great as well! The Wonderful #PrayForParis mural is right by the side of this wall!

More wall photos can be seen here.
January 2017 update: Sadly, this wall no longer exists.
Wall 19 : You are My Sunshine Mural

Address: on the back wall of Thread store, 249 W 19th St., Suite C, Houston, TX 77008

Safety and tips on parking: mural is on the back of a boutique, on a shopping strip center, so parking is available on site.

Best time for shooting: Wall faces north. Light works at different times of the day. Cars are usually not parked there.
September 2018 update: Unfortunately, this wall is no longer there.
Wall 20 : Teal Zig Zag Wall

Address: the parking lot of Pavement Clothing, 1657 Westheimer Rd., Houston, TX 77098

Safety and tips on parking:You will have to go there early in the mornings as this wall is on the parking lot of a store, hence cars are usually parked there blocking the mural.

Best time for shooting: Early mornings, especially on weekends, are best! Note that recently there were customer parking only signs installed throughout the mural. You can still photograph there, but you have to do so in the spaces in between one sign and the other, unless you want to edit the signs out... A big plus: the Rainbow Pride Wall is on that same parking lot! Afterwards, cross over Westheimer to Common Bond for great coffee and pastries!

More wall photos can be seen here and here. (Note these were taken before the addition of those pesky parking signs.)
January 2017 update: Sadly, this wall no longer exists. But it has been replaced by Wall 38 listed below. September 2018 update: The mural has been replaced - see Wall 97.
Wall 21 : "Your Outlook on Life..." Typography Wall by Ryan Hamrick

Safety and tips on parking: Parking is available on several covered parking lots at City Centre or metered spots across the shopping center.

Best time for shooting: light works at different times of the day. Sometimes with fun creative shadows as you can see in the image we posted. For even shaded light, go in the late afternoons or cloudy days. Grab lunch or dinner while you are there, or pick a few macarons... a great shopping area as well!

Wall 22 : Green and Blue Mosaic Tile Wall

Address: Jones Plaza, 600 Louisiana St., Houston, TX 77002

Safety and tips on parking: metered parking is available around Jones Plaza. Make sure you pay at meter station or you will get ticketed!

Best time for shooting: Any time of the day as some of the areas are covered and you'll find good shade to shoot. Explore the area while you are there. You'll be right in the Theater district in downtown Houston!

More wall photos can be seen here.

Wall 25 : JW Marriott Wall by Gonzo247

Address: 806 Main St., Houston, TX 77002

Produced by Hue Mural Fest

Safety and tips on parking: Mural is on a side wall of the JW Marriott Downtown, so parking there is difficult unless you valet. We recommend you park on a street close by (metered parking) and walk to the mural.

Best time for shooting: Area is shaded, so most times during the day would work, but early evenings seem to have great light for that area. After shooting here head over to a favorite coffee shop, the Honeymoon, only a few blocks away.

More wall photos can be seen here.

Wall 27 : The Polka Dot Wall by Shelbi Nicole

Address: 6521 N Main St., Houston, TX 77009

Safety and tips on parking:Parking available street side or in front of boutique where wall is located

Best time for shooting: early mornings or early evenings. Be aware that wall is on a grassy slope and you will be shooting from the street up.

More wall photos can be seen here.
September 2018 update: This wall has been painted over. It is now a colorful wall that has the word "lotus" on it.
Address: 1502 Sawyer Street, Houston, TX 77007

Safety and tips on parking: parking available in front of wall on a parking lot.

Best time for shooting: you definitely want to go to this wall on a weekend, on an early morning or an early evening when there is less traffic on this street, as you will have to be on the street to shoot your subject (sidewalk is very small). Cloudy days or days with some cloud covering highly recommended if you are shooting during the morning as this wall has full morning sunlight.

More wall photos can be seen here.

Address: 1050 Yale St., Houston, TX 77008 (the former post office)

Safety and tips on parking: This used to be a post office and parking lot is usually empty. You can park right on site.

Best time for shooting: early mornings and early evenings. There are a couple smaller murals by the side, so make sure to check them out! Mural is in the Heights area, which is a great area to explore and grab a coffee or lunch.

Wall 32 : Handshake and Love mural by Wiley Robertson

Safety and tips on parking: Very safe area, parking street side with a playground on the side in a grassy area. Big plus is there's a coffee shop right on site, inside the church.

Best time for shooting: Mornings are great, as it faces west.
September 2018 update: Unfortunately, this wall is no longer there.
Wall 33 : Houston Pride Wall (artist unknown)

Address: the parking lot of Pavement Clothing, 1657 Westheimer Rd., Houston, TX 77098

Safety and tips on parking: You will have to go there early in the mornings as this wall is on the parking lot of a store, hence cars are usually parked there blocking the mural.

Best time for shooting: Early mornings, especially on weekends, are best! Striped Teal Wall is on that same parking lot! Big plus!

See more of this wall here and here.
November 2017 update: sadly, this mural has been tagged by graffiti extensively. September 2018 update: Unfortunately, this wall is no longer there, but it has been replaced by Wall 103.
Wall 35 : Pray For Paris wall by Sebastien "Mr. D" Boileau

Address: 3100 Smith Street, Houston, TX 77006
Note that this mural holds special meaning, as it was a heartfelt tribute by the artist (a Frenchman living in Texas) in the wake of the terrorist attacks in Paris last fall.
Safety and tips on parking: Parking available on site right in front of mural.

Best time for shooting: Early morning and early evenings work best. There are two more murals by the side of this one, a fun Gorilla mural and the Colorful American Queen!
January 2017 update: Sadly, this wall no longer exists.
Wall 37 : Butterflies wall by Fabio Panone

Address: 2201 Preston St., Houston, TX 77003

Produced by Hue Mural Festival

Safety and tips on parking: Public parking available in front of mural.

Best time for shooting: Mural faces south. Cloudy days or late afternoons are best. Note that this and the owl Guardian murals are side by side.

See more of this wall here. (You'll note the full sun we got when we shot around 9 am.)

Wall 38 : Colorful graphic wall by Skeez181

Address: Parking lot of Pavement Clothing, 1657 Westheimer Rd., Houston, TX 77098

Safety and tips on parking: You will have to go there early in the mornings as this wall is on the parking lot of a store, hence cars are usually parked blocking the mural.

Best time for shooting: Early mornings, especially weekends, are best for parking reasons. But note that you may be battling harsh sunlight as the wall faces east. Also, recently "customer parking" only signs are installed throughout the mural. You can still photograph there, but you will have to do so in spaces in between one sign and the other, unless you want to edit signs out on photoshop...

A big plus: the Rainbow Pride Wall (wall 33) is on that same parking lot.

Note that this wall replaced the teal zia zag wall (Wall 20) listed above.
September 2018 update: The mural has been replaced - see Wall 97.
Wall 39 : Shamanic Angel and dripping Flowers Wall by Luis Valle

Address: 1940 Opelousas St. Houston, TX 77020

Produced by Hue Mural Festival

Safety and tips on parking: Streetside parking is available in front of the mural.

Best time for shooting: Most times of the day from morning till late afternoon would provide decent light to work with, but we recommend going there in the morning. Many other murals within the different sides of the building, some which you will be able to shoot anytime of the day, others which will have full light in the mornings and afternoons. Cloudy days are best to explore the entire building. Also note that the ground is dirt and grass, so it could create a problem if wearing heels.

See more of this wall here.

Wall 42 : Circles by Dandee Warhol

Address: 420 E 20th St, Houston, TX 77008 at Birds Barbershop

Safety and tips on parking: Ample free public parking in shopping strip where wall is located.

Best time for shooting: Wall faces north, so you should be fine most times of day. While you are there make sure to grab an ice pop ate Steel City Pops.

See more of this wall here.

Note that there is a great mural inside the barbershop, as well. See more of the inside here.

Wall 43 : Geometric Shapes mural by Bryan Cope and Dustin North

Address: 1503 Chartres St, Houston, TX 77003

Produced by Hue Mural Festival

Safety and tips on parking: Free public parking is available around the Houston Graffiti Building.

Best time for shooting: Mornings work great for this wall. Make sure you allot enough time to walk around the many murals in this site, many which are features in our mural guide as well.

See more of this wall here.
September 2018 update: Unfortunately, this wall is no longer there.
Wall 45 : Hearts mural by John Whaley

Address: 1503 Chartres St, Houston, TX 77003

Produced by Hue Mural Festival

Safety and tips on parking: Free public parking is available around the Houston Graffiti Building. There's no telling on whether the area will be busy with other onlookers and photographers, or if it will be desolated. Go with a friend for safety, twice as fun to share all these murals with friends.

Best time for shooting: Cloudy days would be the best, otherwise very early in the morning, or late afternoons. Don't miss out on the other murals around and in front of this building.

See more of this wall here.
November 2017 update: Sadly, this wall has been tagged extensively by graffiti September 2018 update: Unfortunately, this wall is no longer there, but it has been replaced by Wall 101.
Wall 54 : Mr. and Mrs. Dog by Alex Arzu

Address: 1503 Chartres St, Houston, TX 77003

Produced by Hue Mural Festival

Safety and tips on parking: Free public parking is available around the Houston Graffiti Building. There's no telling on whether the area will be busy with other onlookers and photographers, or if it will be desolated. We recommend you go with a friend for safety.

Best time for shooting: Cloudy days would be the best, otherwise very early in the morning, or late afternoons. Mid mornings and early afternoons shine full sun on this wall.
September 2018 update: Unfortunately, this wall is no longer there, but it has been replaced by Wall 101.
Wall 68 : New Sugar and Cloth color wall and color stairs

Address : 1201 Main Street, Houston, TX 77002

Safety and tips on parking: Parking available on parking garage right by side of shopping center where mural is located. Or you can park street side somewhere close in downtown, pay park meter, and walk.

Best time for shooting: Any time of day would work for shooting as wall has a small roof above it that provides shade.

See more of the wall here.
Update: The wall and stairs have been painted over in a beige color and there are some sayings painted on the wall now.
Wall 69 : Amor mural by Wiley Robertson

Address : 2613 N Main St, Houston, TX 77002

Safety and tips on parking : Parking is available by the side of the mural, on the convenience store where mural is painted.

Best time for shooting : Mornings and afternoons work best for shooting!

Wall 70 : More Color Please wall by Sebastien "Mr. D" Boileau for CarrieColbert.com

Address : 1112 Shepherd Dr, Houston, TX 77007 (FM Kitchen & Bar)

Safety and tips on parking : Parking available on site at FM Kitchen & Bar where mural is located.

Best time for shooting : Not only is our new mural amazing, happy, creative and colorful, but you can shoot there day long regardless of the time or light! Plus, get a delicious bite to eat at FM Kitchen & Bar.

See more of this wall here and here.

Wall 72 : FM Kitchen & Bar mural by Daniel Anguilu

Address : 1112 Shepherd Dr, Houston, TX 77007 (FM Kitchen & Bar)

Safety and tips on parking : Parking available on site at FM Kitchen & Bar where mural is located.

Best time for shooting : Best light seems to be mornings or late afternoon. Cloudy days are great!

Wall 74 : Melting colors mural Donkey Paw Printing

Address : 2102 Commerce St. Houston, TX 77002

Safety and tips on parking : Parking is available in front of mural at Tout Suite, or by side of Donkey Paw Printing.

Best time for shooting : Mural is located inside the gated premises of Donkey Paw Printing. You will have to ask for permission to shoot there. Good to shoot even through the afternoon and early evening.

Wall 75 : Tropical colors and rainbow lines mural at Voodoo Queen by Dual

Address : 322 Milby St, Houston, TX 77003

Safety and tips on parking : Free parking is available street-side by the mural.

Best time for shooting : Late afternoons and overcast days work best for shooting at this mural.

Wall 76 : Roses mural by Tyler Kay

Address : 1213 Maury St. Houston, TX 77020

Safety and tips on parking : Parking available street side alongside mural. Many other murals located by the side and around Thai mural, so allow time to explore.

Best time for shooting : Best time for shooting would be late afternoons and overcast days.

Wall 77 : Blue and lilac striped mural artist unknown

Address : 2317 N Main St, Houston, TX 77009

Safety and tips on parking : Parking is available at Gas station right by the wall.

Best time for shooting : You can find good light for shooting anytime if the day, as mural extends on two directions. Beware incoming traffic if you are shooting street-side.

See more of this wall here.

Wall 80 : Typography Mint mural

Address : 301 W. 19th st. Houston, TX 77008

Safety and tips on parking : Public parking available in front of wall.

Best time for shooting : Light seems to work well all throughout the day, but we recommend afternoons and early evenings.

See more of this wall here.
September 2018 update: This wall has been painted over. No photos available yet, but you'll find two armadillos painted on top.
Wall 81: Emoji Flowers Mural by Scott Tarbox

Address: 2112 Leeland St, Houston, TX 77003

Safety and tips on parking: Parking available in front of wall at Greenleaf Wholesale Florists, or across the street, on public parking lot.

Best time for shooting: For best light go early in the morning, or sometime after 4 p.m. Cloudy days work great as well!

Wall 82 : I am LOVE mural by Ruben Rojas

Address: 548 W 19th St, Houston, TX 77008

Parking: Ample free parking in front of mural, by YogaOne Studios.

Tips: Middays or afternoons work great, as well as overcast days. While you are in the area, explore a few more of the murals in our guide.

Wall 83 : Ballerinas and Roses mural by Fallen Rose

Address: 2112 Leeland St, Houston, TX 77003

Parking: Street side spaces available in front of the mural or just a few yards away by GreenLeaf Florists (where another of the murals in our guide is located).

Tips: Early afternoons are great to shoot here. Take some extra time to explore the many murals in the area.

Wall 84 : Florals on Red and Pink mural by Josue Ramirez

Address: 2112 Leeland St, Houston, TX 77003

Parking: Street side spaces available in front of the mural or just a few yards away by GreenLeaf Florists (where another of the murals in our guide is located).

Tips: Early afternoons are great to shoot here. Take some extra time to explore the many murals in the area.

Wall 85 : Florence and the Machine Wall by Sebastien "Mr. D 1987" Boileau

Address: 1629 Westheimer Rd, Houston, TX 77006

Parking: Parking available in the alley way behind Emerson Rose or street side in front of the store.

Tips: For best light, go early in the morning or late afternoons.
Note that this is the update to Wall 73.
Wall 88 : Hearts Mural (artist unknown)

Address: Wicklow Heights, 1027 W 19th St, Houston, TX 77008

Parking: Available in front of Wicklow Heights

Tips: Mural is in the backyard of Wicklow Heights Bar, so take some time to relax and have a drink while you are there!

Wall 89 : Abstract Color for Coral Sword

Artist: Dual Streets @dual_streets

Address: 1318 Telephone Rd. Suite 3, Houston, TX 77023

Parking: Limited parking right in front of Coral Sword or street side around the area.

Tips: Any hour of the day will work, as there are different parts to the mural facing different directions, allowing for shaded areas throughout the day.

Wall 90: Wall by Shelbi Nicole

Address: 2112 Leeland St, Houston, TX 77003

Parking: Street side spaces available in front of the mural or just a few yards away by GreenLeaf Florists (where another of the murals in our guide is located).

Tips: Early afternoons are great to shoot here. Take some extra time to explore the many murals in the area.

Wall 92: Houston and Texas themed typography murals

Note that this is actually a series of six different walls - all with a Houston or Texas theme! We will update this guide with photos of all six over time.

Artist: Phoebe Cornog and Roxy Prima of PANDR Design Co. (commissioned by Brookfield Properties Houston)

Address: 1301 McKinney St, Houston, TX 77010

Parking: These murals are in downtown Houston, so parking can be a bit tricky. There is limited metered parking street side on McKinney and paid underground parking on Caroline St. by The Shops at Houston Center.

Tip: These murals face north. In the morning, they can get some harsh light and odd shadows, so we suggest going in the afternoon.

Wall 94: Houston astronaut wall

Artist: Michael C. Rodriguez @michaelcrodriguez for Rice Village District

Address: 2563 Amherst St, Houston, TX 77005

Parking: Ample parking available throughout Rice Village. Park by Shake Shack or Starbucks

Tip: Wall faces north and is shielded on the side by adjoining buildings, so mural gets shade throughout the day.

Wall 98 : Colorful Movement Wall by Daniel Anguilu

Address: 1503 Chartres Street, Houston, Texas 77003

Safety and tips on parking: Free public parking is available around the Houston Graffiti Building. You can park on Leeland and St Emmanuel. There's no telling on whether the area will be busy with other onlookers and photographers, or if it will be desolate. Go with a friend for safety, plus its twice as fun to share all these murals with friends.

Best time for shooting: The mural gets shade because of the stairs above it. It's better to shoot mornings or late afternoons.

Wall 100 : Colorful grid (artist unknown)

Address: 2101 Winter St, Houston, TX 77007

Parking: Free parking all around Winter Street Studios. It's definitely worth exploring the many murals (many in our guide) that are in the area while you are there.

Wall 101: McDonald's Wall by Gonzo

Address: 1503 Chartres St, Houston, TX 77003

Safety and tips on parking: Free public parking is available around the Houston Graffiti Building. There's no telling on whether the area will be busy with other onlookers and photographers, or if it will be desolated. Go with a friend for safety, twice as fun to share all these murals with friends.

Best time for shooting: Cloudy days would be the best, otherwise very early in the morning, or late afternoons. Don't miss out on the other murals around and in front of this building.

Note: This is a huge wall (25′ tall x 125′ wide) and it replaces Wall 45, Wall 50, and Wall 54.

Wall 103 : Graffiti Wall

Address: the parking lot of Pavement Clothing, 1657 Westheimer Rd., Houston, TX 77098

Safety and tips on parking: You will have to go there early in the mornings as this wall is on the parking lot of a store, hence cars are usually parked there blocking the mural.

Best time for shooting: Early mornings, especially on weekends, are best! Striped Teal Wall is on that same parking lot! Big plus!
Note: This wall replaced Wall 33.
In Closing

To our dear readers: Our sincere hope is that you find this mural guide enjoyable, helpful, and useful!

Furthermore, to the artists: we extend our sincere thanks to the artists who bring their talents to the streets of Houston. We as a community benefit greatly from these public bursts of color and creativity! So, thank you.

Next, please remember that this is an evergreen document. So, check back often for updates! Plus, let us know if you have any additions, changes, or submissions for the guide. You can always email us at [email protected]

Let us know if you have ideas for what city you'd like our next Mural Guide to feature! You can also check out our mini Dallas mural guide and our Soho NYC mural guide.

Finally, last but certainly not least, a huge thank you to our Maritere Rice for chronicling all of these walls via her beautifully vibrant photos!
Houston Mural Guide originally published September 2016, Updated January 2017, Updated June 2017, Updated November 2017, Updated September 2018

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
The Most Comprehensive Guide to Houston's Colorful Walls - Carrie Colbert

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Colorful walls are having a moment, and we aren't mad about it at all! Indeed, as you can tell around here, that's a trend we fully support. In fact, we first published our Houston Mural Guide in September 2016. At the time, the guide contained only 35.

# data[].attributes.body
Link to a map with all the Mini Murals in this project.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
Mini Murals Houston was created by UP Art Studio in 2016, with support from the City of Houston Public Works, Mayor's Office of Cultural Affairs, Fresh Arts, East End Foundation, and Council Member Larry Green, who sponsored 31 boxes in the pilot phase. Mini Murals Houston has grown to more than 200 painted traffic signal control cabinets throughout the greater metropolitan area.

The project has won several awards, and has been sponsored by council members, management districts, neighborhood associations, organizations, corporations, grants, and others sources, making the project a success.

Mini Murals Tours

The Mini Murals Tours are a visual excursion where residents and visitors can explore Houston's iconic beautified traffic signal boxes, now considered mini works of public art. The tours offer discovery by foot, bike, car and more. Download the maps today to get your journey started!

Artist Open Call

Check back for our next Artist Open Call.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Mini Murals Houston was created by UP Art Studio in 2016, with support from the City of Houston Public Works, Mayor's Office of Cultural Affairs, Fresh Arts, East End Foundation, and Council Member Larry Green, who sponsored 31 boxes in the pilot phase.

# data[].attributes.headline
"Things to do in Houston with Kids" list from Jill B. Jarvis

# data[].attributes.subject
"Things to do in Houston with Kids" list from Jill B. Jarvis

# data[].attributes.body
Extensive list of activities that can be done with kids. Includes free + paid admission activities

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
There is a lot to do in Houston, with kids, and we're putting the best of the best in one spot! Look below for things to do with the family and for the interactive map!

If you are looking for the currently list of weekly events, please go . If you want all this emailed to you each week, just go !

Here's a list of over 50 things to do... and they are fun things to do! Feed horses, find art, tour museums and more!

Houston is a great place to be with kids! There are festivals, shows and events... and there is plenty to do any day of the year!

Here are 100 of the fun things to do around Houston, with kids... on any day!

If you have a few hours, we have ideas on how to spend them with kids. This list is organized by location.

Houston has hundreds of parks that are free and fun for the family. From tradition parks, to nature trails to wooden fortresses... Houston has them all! Find the Citywide Map of Parks with pictures and reviews, HERE.

This list does not include usual favorites... so you won't find the awesome Children's Museum here. Instead, you will find things with fewer crowds, some that are a little quirky, and all that are just as much fun as the well-known spots.

Explore downtown Houston with kids!

Walk through this hip neighborhood... and find lots of things to do in Houston with kids!

Chinatown! We love it, but it can be overwhelming with all the shops and restaurants. Here are some things-to-do to get you started.

Whether we are looking for a beach, museum, park or restaurant, the small Galveston Island has them... and they are easy to get to! Here are the places we've visited with kids (and not just a laundry list of things to do).

For a map of things to do, look below!

To use it:
1. Look in your part of town.
2. The square in the top left will let you turn on and off layers for parks, restaurants, etc.
3. Click on the dots you want to learn more about.
4. In the window that opens, click on the link to see pictures and read about the venue!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
There is a lot to do in Houston, with kids, and we're putting the best of the best in one spot! Look below for things to do with the family and for the interactive map! If you are looking for the currently list of weekly events, please go .

# data[].attributes.headline
"Fun… And Social Distanced… Things To Do Around Houston, With Kids!" - another list from Jill B. Jarvis

# data[].attributes.subject
"Fun… And Social Distanced… Things To Do Around Houston, With Kids!" - another list from Jill B. Jarvis

# data[].attributes.body
A shorter, curated list of activities that can be done while maintaining social distance

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
This is the time of year when I would be posting all the summer events, all the free spots for air conditioning and swimming and the fun things to do for summer break.

For this unique 2020 summer break, let me instead make a list of "socially distanced" things to do. Just double check before you go to make sure it is open and that it still fits with current guidelines. (Be sure to tell me what to edit or add!)

And remember, if a place is open, you can still make the choice to go or not to go.

1. Take the kids fishing! HERE are some easy spots to try.

2. Spot the International Space Center from Houston. Find the times to look up . Or get these daily skywatching tips from !

3. Go to the Waugh Bridge Bat Colony at dusk. Hundreds of thousands of bats emerge at dusk!

4. Play I-Spy along the Westchase District Trail.

5. Visit Hermann Park and walk, run or bike the trail or just enjoy the outdoors.

6. Visit the trails at the Houston Arboretum.

7. Visit the Nature Discovery Center. Walk the trails and enjoy nature!

8. Visit Edith L. Moore Nature Sanctuary. It's open all year, for free.

9. Visit a Texas State Park.

10. Explore Buffalo Bayou Park. Walk, run or bike through the trails.

11. Uncover secrets at Rice University. There is art and hidden messages everywhere!

12. Go to the University of St. Thomas. Strollers, bikes and scooters can be seen frequently on this small campus.

13. Tour Downtown Houston! (This post is pre-Covid, so skip the pre-Covid stuff.)

14. Visit Discovery Green. You can enjoy the art and the open space.

15. Visit Sam Houston Park. This is Houston's first park! There are a lot of historic buildings and you can take an audio tour with your phone.

16. Tour Bethel Church Park. Just look at this old church!

17. Go to Levy Park! The park is open (but the play areas are closed.)

18. See Mount Rush Hour, or Statesmanship Park. You can get close and see it from your car.

19. Check out the Beer Can House! You can see it from the street or from your car.

20. Visit the Orange Show and Smither Park. Experience art so unique you can only find it at a monument celebrating oranges. You may not be able to take a tour, but you will be entertained by all the art!

21. Visit Waterwall Park! See the 64-foot semi-circular fountain that re-circulates 11,000 gallons of water per minute.

22. Visit BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir in Stafford. The Mandir is the first traditional Hindu Mandir of its kind in North America and is made from 33,000 pieces of Italian marble and Turkish limestone. Even if if the current times don't allow a tour, it is impressive to see!

23. Find a Farmer's Market.

24. Go to Seawolf Park! See the Navy ships (from the outside) and go fishing.

25. Play on the beach in Galveston!

26. Play on the beach at Surfside.

27. Visit Sylvan Beach. Dig in the sand, splash in the water and fish off the pier.

28. Check out the Texas City Dike! Fish, play in the sand and splash in the water.

29. Volunteer as a family with Generation SERVE! Houston families can serve from home (and eventually from around Houston).

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.title
Fun... and Social Distanced... Things To Do Around Houston, With Kids!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
This is the time of year when I would be posting all the summer events, all the free spots for air conditioning and swimming and the fun things to do for summer break. For this unique 2020 summer break, let me instead make a list of "socially distanced" things to do.

# data[].attributes.body
A map of public art from the City of Sugar Land

# data[].attributes.headline
"Mrs. Ballow's Messy Desk" YouTube Channel

# data[].attributes.subject
"Mrs. Ballow's Messy Desk" YouTube Channel

# data[].attributes.body
Short video tutorials and art prompts for kids in K-5th grade that use recycled items and common household supplies. Created by FBRwC member Stevie Ballow.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Techniques, how to's, artist info and other cool art-related stuff from the messy desk of Mrs. Ballow, Head Mess Maker and TAB Studio Director at Shady Oak P...

# data[].attributes.headline
Children's Museum Houston virtual program offerings

# data[].attributes.subject
Children's Museum Houston virtual program offerings

# data[].attributes.body
Lots of links to the Museum's high quality programming for children -- all FREE!

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.readable_text
We want to keep minds going! Everyday we have a line up of LIVE activities to engage, inspire and educate your children.

Sign up for our e-newsletter to receive a daily schedule directly into your inbox.

Join one of our FREE Virtual Maker Annex Workshops and learn the basics of CAD and design with our Maker Annex Manager, Jacob Brier.

Enjoy learning at home with our educators? Explore our database of FREE curriculum based activities and videos.

‍

If you missed one of our Daily Virtual activities you can view them any time!

‍

‍

‍

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
We want to keep minds going! Everyday we have a line up of LIVE activities to engage, inspire and educate your children. Sign up for our e-newsletter to receive a daily schedule directly into your inbox. Join one of our FREE Virtual Maker Annex Workshops and learn the basics of CAD and design with our Maker Annex Manager, Jacob Brier.

# data[].attributes.body
Create a ribbon to add to the collection. Use whatever media you want...just make a ribbon! #infiniteribbonCOVID19

# data[].attributes.body
Recreate a work of art and post pictures on FB + IG. You can be the work of art, or you can recreate it with random objects. Fun challenge for all ages.

# data[].attributes.body
Make some beautiful paintings with Bob Ross. Channel includes all seasons of the beloved artist's PBS series.

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The official YouTube channel of “The Joy of Painting” and Bob Ross. Watch and paint along with every episode of The Joy of Painting! Happy painting! You’ve see Bob Ross before. He is the soft-spoken guy painting happy clouds, mountains, and trees in about 26 television minutes, using big house pain…

# data[].attributes.body
Trinka and Sam: Fighting the Big Virus coloring book. Includes a parent guide.

# data[].attributes.headline
"Princess Penelope's Parrot" performance  

# data[].attributes.subject
"Princess Penelope's Parrot" performance  

# data[].attributes.body
Books Alive! presents a video of their production of the children's book by Helen Lester. Suitable for all ages

# data[].attributes.body
Blog with easy, kid and toddler friendly art, craft, and science activities

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
The Kitchen Table Classroom is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com

# data[].attributes.body
Art for Kids Hub is a favorite among kids for drawing tutorials featuring game and TV characters, cute stuff, holiday drawings, and more...

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.keywords[]
"art for kids" "art projects for kids" "art ideas for kids" "art tips" "how to draw" "art for kids hub" lessons

# data[].attributes.attachment_link.description
Hey, art friends! Welcome to Art For Kids Hub! 🎨✏️ Here, you'll discover all sorts of awesome art lessons, from drawing to painting, and even some super cool origami. Whether you're a beginner or a budding artist, there's something fun for everyone!