Oh Those Kids!

Where have I been? Doing my taxes.

But, inspired by Marcia's post asking about five fun things to do with her grandchildren in Berkeley, I think it's time to get out and see some sights. If I had kids to tote around, I'd take them here:

Berkeley Marina's Kite Festival
It happens around the same time each summer; windy or not, and everyone and their grandmother goes. There are kite-making workshops for kids of all ages, competitions to watch, amazing kites to oggle, grass upon which you may picnic... It appears as if the website for this year's event is not up yet, but here's a link to the 2006 announcement for the basics.

Lawrence Hall of Science
No one gets bored here, and look at that view of the San Francisco Bay! You'll be calling me to buy a house in the hills after a visit here. But go first for the planetarium at this amazing facility.

Chabot Space & Science Center
Ok, it's not Berkeley but it's another planetarium choice nearby. There are science movies and lightshows produced for people of all ages, but many are especially for young children.

Oakland Zoo
Another local favorite to take your kids to. Earth Day festivities are happening there April 15th, so maybe I ought to check it out just before I mail my taxes in...

University of California's Botanical Gardens
A nice easy stroll through the Berkeley Hills near Strawberry Canyon. This will tire out the kids so they take a nice looong nap in the afternoon while you play with the stuff you bought at the botanical gardens' store.

Strawberry Canyon Public Pool
Ok, since I named two non-Berkeley spots and Ms. Marcia wanted five; here's another one for you to consider after you've checked out the Botanical Gardens, in the same neighborhood. There's a lap pool and lots of pool space reserved for play. Last I visited, there was a kiddie splash pool too.