KidsOutAndAbout Weekly Newsletter |
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Dear KidsOutAndAbout readers:
When my husband and I started planning a family, we talked a lot about the kind of parents we hoped to be. Naturally, we looked back on our own childhoods. David had story after story about his parents—their quirks, what they cared about, who they were. But when I tried to do the same, I came up oddly blank. I could tell you what I loved as a kid, but not much about what made my
own parents’ hearts sing. I remembered that my dad had a garden when I was little, but I couldn’t say whether he enjoyed digging in the dirt, liked making things grow, or was just trying to save money on vegetables. That realization stuck with me. I didn’t want my kids to grow up seeing me as a blur in the background of their story; I wanted them to see me clearly: as someone who had favorite things, real interests, and a sense of enjoyment they could understand. I wanted them
to grow up expecting that adulthood could be full of that, too... all of the vivid experiences that make up the inner life of a regular person, especially the joys. I started using the phrase "live what you love" as a kind of parenting guidepost. Our kids are always watching, taking cues about what adulthood looks like. If all they ever see is grownups stressed, rushing, and tired, they’ll assume that’s the default. But if they also see us delighted by a song, energized by a
game, inspired by something we've learned, genuinely laughing with people we love... that’s powerful. It shows them that joy isn’t something you age out of, it’s something you grow into. The holidays are packed with tasks and to-do lists, but they’re also full of opportunities for joy. So tune your radar to what YOU love, and if you catch yourself smiling at paper snowflakes or belting out a corny carol, don’t downplay it. Let yourself have that moment. When your kids see the
joy you've just pushed into the room; it's a gift to their present and to their future.
—Debra Ross, publisher
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KidsOutAndAbout.com: Discover more. Do more. Connect more. If you like my publisher's column, you can easily scroll through past columns in the "Notes from Deb" section of our site. |
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Why travel far when adventure is right here at home? Come climb at Upper Limits Rock Gym in Maryland Heights or Chesterfield, where fun, fitness, and community meet! Whether you’re looking for an unforgettable birthday party, exciting day camps, or your next family adventure, we’ve got something for everyone. Don’t miss out on our Winter Camps starting December 22nd, the perfect way to stay active and beat the winter blues! Sign up today and make this winter one to remember.
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Preschool is more fun — and educational — by learning outdoors at the Saint Louis Zoo! Join usfor our Second Nature Zoo Preschool Open Houses and learn about our Reggio-inspiredprogram, where children’s interests guide their learning. Students spend 50% of their dayoutdoors and draw inspiration from animals and nature.NEW: Starting with the 2026-27 academic year, preschool will be a full-day program, and thenew classrooms will be located in the Zoo’s new Destination Discovery area!Open house is Sunday, Jan. 4 from 9 a.m. to noon. Learn more atstlzoo.org/preschool.
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Since 1969, New City School has nurtured curiosity, self-awareness, and a love of learning in students age 3 - 6th Grade. Nestled in the historic Central West End neighborhood, the school is home to families from 46 St. Louis metropolitan area zip codes. Built on a commitment to academic excellence and diversity, New City brings children, parents, and teachers together in a community of joyful learners. An $11 million endowment supports their Variable Tuition program, which helps to strengthen and sustain a socioeconomically diverse school community; 40% of enrolled families participate in this program. Learn more at Open Houses on November 8, December 13, and January 14. RSVP: newcityschool.org/visit
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Preschool is a crucial stepping stone in your child's educational journey, offering a structured environment for early social, emotional, and academic development. It sets the stage for lifelong learning by introducing kiddos to essential skills like following directions, teamwork, and foundational literacy and numeracy concepts. Kiddie Academy-St. Louis stands out as the ideal choice, providing a nurturing environment with a well-rounded curriculum designed to foster confidence, creativity, and critical thinking. With experienced educators and a focus on providing high-quality care, Kiddie Academy ensures your child is prepared for future academic success and personal growth. Kiddie Academy-St. Louis is currently enrolling in its Chesterfield, Des Peres, and O’Fallon locations.
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Join us in the enchanting town of Kimmswick for a magical Christmas Festival from December 5-7, 2025! Experience the charm of historic buildings adorned in festive Christmas decorations. Immerse yourself in the joyous melodies of carolers and let the warm glow of luminaries illuminate your path as you embrace the spirit of the season during our cherished annual Christmas Festival. Plus, don’t miss the chance to meet Santa Claus himself!
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The public is invited to view the exhibit “Winter Traditions: An Exploration of Celebrations” at Felix Vallé House State Historic Site during the month of December. The exhibit will be on display in the site’s Shaw House from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Sunday. “Winter Traditions” explores Missouri’s unique cultural journey and the traditions that have influenced it. The exhibit touches on winter traditions from Haiti, Italy, Indigenous cultures and more. Admission is free, and there is no need to register. For more information, call the historic site office at 573-883-7102.
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Cardinals Nation's biggest brunch of the year is on Sunday, December 7th! The menu covers all of the bases from breakfast to lunch and St. Louis' best Bloody Mary Bar.
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Step into a world of festive fun at Winter Wonderscape, a pop-up holiday experience! Climb to the top of a dazzling Ice Castle and zip down the slide, weave your way through the Snow Maze and craft a one-of-a-kind holiday gift in the Elves Workshop. Then hop in Santa’s Sleigh for a photo that’s picture-perfect for the season! Plus, don’t miss the Snowball Showdown, happening Tuesday through Friday at 11:30 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 1:30 p.m. Come make magical memories with your family with Holiday Magic this December at The Magic House! Winter Wonderscape is included with admission.
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Step into a shimmering winter wonderland at Lost Hill Lake’s Grove of Lights. This festive celebration transforms the venue into a dazzling display of thousands of lights across the Large and Small Pavilions, nestled in a scenic woodland setting—perfect for families, couples, and groups looking to get into the holiday spirit.
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On the first Saturday in December, Santa Claus makes his grand appearance at this Christmas themed parade of bright lights down Historic Main Street. Visit with Santa and enjoy food, beverages and activities for the kids at Turner Hall following the parade.
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This full day of fun starts early at the 1st United Methodist Church for Breakfast with Santa from 8-10:30am. There is no set cost for this, but freewill offerings will be accepted. While breakfast is happening, craft and food vendors as well as all the activities will be setting up on W Main and in the Festus Public Library parking lot.
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Join us on the First Saturday of the month for Story Time! Reading and activites are geared towards ages 2-5, but all are welcome to join. No registration required!
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Celebrate the season with us at our Holiday Tree Lighting event! Meet us at the tree outside as Santa makes his grand entrance and lights the tree at 6:00 PM, kicking off an evening full of holiday cheer. After the tree is aglow, head inside for even more festivities including food, photos, inflatables, and more. It's a magical night for the whole family you won't want to miss!
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Come explore, jump, and play at St. Louis Spirit’s Preschool Open Gym! Perfect for ages 5 and under, this fun-filled, unstructured playtime lets little ones burn energy, build coordination, and explore our safe, kid-friendly gymnastics equipment. No experience needed—just bring the giggles and get ready for big fun!
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Begin your holiday celebration when you experience the enchantment of Christmas at the "Christmas Wonderland" holiday light display. The "Grandpa Gang" has been at it again transforming Rock Spring Park in Alton, Illinois into a Winter Wonderland. Visitors can drive through the park to view more than 4 million lights decorating the park! This year the popular Enchanted Forest where visitors vote on their favorite decorated tree returns to the park, as do visits with Santa Claus! Take your own free photos with Santa! Walkthrough night is always the first Monday after Thanksgiving (6 p.m. - 9 p.m.) for anyone who wants to brave the cold and get an up-close-and-personal view of the holiday light show!
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- Free Fridays- The Saint Louis Art Museum - The Saint Louis Art Museum - 1 Fine Arts Drive Forest Park, St. Louis, MO 63110-1380, Friday, December 5, 2025, 10 am to 9 pm
- St. Charles Christmas Traditions® - 230 S Main St, St Charles, MO 63301, Friday, December 5 to Sunday, December 7, 2025, various times (Opening Day Noon to 8:30 pm, Fridays 6 to 8:30 pm, Saturdays Noon to 8:30 pm, Sundays Noon to 5 pm)
- Kimmswick Christmas Festival - 6041 3rd St, Kimmswick, MO 63053, Friday, December 5 to Sunday, December 7, 2025, varies
- Pizza with Santa in Eureka - 333 Bald Hill Road, Eureka, MO, Friday, December 5, 6:30 - 8 pm; Saturday, December 6, 11:30 am - 1 pm and 6:30 - 8 pm
- Holiday Tree Lighting - 2300 McKelvey Rd, Maryland Heights, MO 63043, Friday, December 5, 5:30 - 9:30 pm
- Festive Friday - 1 Fine Arts Drive, St. Louis, MO, Friday, December 5, 10 am to 9 pm
- YogiSmart at St. Louis County Libraries - YogiSmart - Private, St Louis, MO 63042, Friday, December 6, varies
- Story
Time at The Novel Neighbor - 7905 Big Bend Blvd, Webster Groves, MO 63119, Saturday, December 6, 10:30 - 11 am
- Holiday Tree Lighting and Vendor Market - 215 Plaza Dr, Wildwood, MO 63040, Saturday, December 6, 3:00 - 5:30 pm
- WINTERFEST - City of Festus - Festus City Hall, 711 West Main Street, Festus, MO 63028, Saturday, December 6, 8 am - 6 pm
- Christmas at Collins House and Light Up Parade - DD Collins House, West Main Street, Collinsville, IL, Saturday, December 6, 4 - 8 pm
- Bright Night Christmas Parade - Columbia, Illinois, Saturday, December 6, 5 pm
- Le Réveillon - Felix Valle House State Historic Site, 198 Merchant St, Ste. Genevieve, MO 63670, Saturday, December 6, 1 - 7 pm
- Christmas in the Park - 2400 Bradley Beach Rd, Arnold, MO 63010, Saturday, December 6, 4 - 7 pm
- Baby & Me: Lapsit - Jefferson County Library - Arnold Branch, 1701 Missouri State Rd, Arnold, MO 63010, Saturday, December 6,
10:00 am
- Holiday Pop-Up Shop - Laumeier Sculpture Park, 12580 Rott Road, Sappington, St. Louis, MO
63127, Saturday, December 6, 10 am - 4 pm
- Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows Annual Way of Lights - National Shrine of Our Lady of the Snows - 442 South De Mazenod Drive, Belleville, IL 62223-1023, Friday, December 5 to Sunday, December 7, 2025, Outdoor Light Display 5-9 pm nightly
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The St. Louis area offers a delightful selection of Christmas tree farms that bring the magic of the holiday season to life. Families can enjoy the cherished tradition of selecting the perfect tree while exploring picturesque landscapes and engaging in
festive activities.
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St. Louis 2025 holiday events and activities...Christmas concerts, lights, trees, nativities, and more. . . plus activities for Chanukah, Kwanzaa, and New Year's Eve. The activities we've listed here
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Click here to discover Birthday party locations in the St. Louis area. From Arcades to Ziplines our Big List will help you think outside the box and plan the party of your kids' dreams! KidsOutAndAbout has dozens of ideas!
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Best places to take kids in St Louis in 2024! Once again, our readers have spoken! Thousands of parents voted in the KidsOutAndAbout survey of the Top 20 Places to Take Kids. Our Top 20 results page includes a list of your top picks, including winners in
special categories like favorite spot for indoor play, favorite nature center, favorite museum, and much more!
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Here's to seizing opportunities to learn wherever they appear!
Debra Ross
Publisher, KidsOutAndAbout.com
Mom of Madison and Ella |
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