Summer is here and it's the perfect time to create lasting memories with your little ones! Whether you're looking for local adventures, easy at-home activities or day trips, we've got you covered. Here's a curated list of 10 kid-approved activities to make this summer unforgettable.

1. Splash Around at Parkside Aquatic Park

Located in San Mateo, Aquatic Park offers a sandy beach area and calm waters ideal for young children. With picnic areas and a playground nearby, it's a one-stop spot for a day of fun.

2. Explore the Japanese Tea Garden in Central Park

Introduce your child to the serene beauty of the Japanese Tea Garden in San Mateo's Central Park. Stroll through the tranquil paths, feed the koi fish and enjoy the peaceful ambiance.

3. Visit CuriOdyssey at Coyote Point

CuriOdyssey is a hands-on science museum and zoo where kids can interact with exhibits and observe native animals. It's both educational and entertaining - a perfect combo for curious minds.

4. Have a Picnic at Beresford Park

Beresford Park offers ample green space, playgrounds, and picnic areas. It's an excellent spot for a family picnic.

Toddler-Friendly Picnic Menu:

• Mini Sandwiches: Ham or cheese sandwiches cut into fun shapes.
• Fruit Skewers: Chunks of watermelon, grapes and strawberries.
• Veggie Sticks: Carrot and cucumber sticks with hummus dip.
• Cheese Cubes: Mild cheddar or mozzarella cubes.

• Mini Muffins: Banana or blueberry mini muffins for a sweet treat.

Picnic Prep Tips:

• Use a large, waterproof blanket for seating.
• Pack wet wipes and hand sanitizer for easy clean-up.
• Bring a small cooler with ice packs to keep food fresh.
• Don't forget sunscreen and hats for sun protection.

5. Attend a Storytime Session at the San Mateo Public Library

The San Mateo Public Library hosts engaging story time sessions for young children. It's a great way to foster a love for reading and interact with other families.

P.S. The Wednesday story time for 18 months to 3 year-olds will be at 10:30 AM from June 11-August 13th and held at Beresford Park. 

6. Create a Backyard Water Play Zone

Set up a simple water play area at home with items like:

• A kiddie pool or splash pad.
• Water tables with floating toys.
• Sprinklers for running through.
• Buckets and cups for pouring and filling.

Always supervise water play to ensure safety.

7. Take a Day Trip to Half Moon Bay

Just a short drive from San Mateo, Half Moon Bay offers beautiful beaches perfect for building sandcastles and exploring tide pools. Lemos Farm is a delightful destination featuring train rides, pony rides and a petting zoo. It's tailored for young children and offers a hands-on farm experience. Don't forget to pack snacks and plenty of water!

8. Attend a special summer local event

Central Park Music Series

On Thursday nights June - August in Central Park enjoy free live music, food vendors, raffle and more! 

Family Fun Nights at Burlingame Public Library

Tuesday evenings in June and July, the Burlingame Library hosts kid-focused entertainment, including a magic show, puppet show, marionette theater, and bubbles! 

9. Enjoy a Nature Walk at Laurelwood Park

Laurelwood Park provides scenic trails suitable for little feet. Explore the natural surroundings, collect leaves, and enjoy a leisurely walk amidst nature.

10. Host an Outdoor Art Session

Encourage creativity by setting up an outdoor art station:

• Use washable paints and large sheets of paper.
• Incorporate natural items like leaves and sticks for stamping.
• Let your child explore colors and textures freely.

Bonus: Share Your Adventures with Us!

Summer is a wonderful opportunity to bond with your child through diverse activities. Whether you're exploring local parks, embarking on day trips, or enjoying backyard fun, these experiences contribute to your child's growth and create cherished memories.

We'd love to hear about your summer adventures! Share your favorite activities or photos with the San Mateo Parents Club community.

Bubblemania (Free) – Palo Alto, June 20

Circus Bella (Free) – San Francisco, June 20, 21

Sandcastle and Sculpture Contest – Alameda, June 21

Color Me Mine Kids Night Out – Alameda, June 21

Summer Scamper Fun Run – Stanford, June 21

Vegetable Gardening for Kids – Palo Alto, June 21

Kidstock (Free) – Mountain View, June 21

Kids Create Self Portraits – Morgan Hill, June 21

Bubblefest at Chabot Space & Science Center – Oakland, June 21, 22

Sunday Funday at Sonoma Botanical Garden – Glen Ellen, June 22

Fiesta at the Fair – Pleasanton, June 22

Bubble Bonanza at Roaring Camp – Felton, June 22

Habitot Art & STEM Day – Hercules, June 25

James and The Giant Peach by Children’s Musical Theater – San Jose, June 25-29

Eddie Madril Kids Show (Free) – San Francisco, June 27

Family Tour at the de Young Museum – San Francisco, June 28

Fairy Fun Fair – Oakland, June 28

Comicon (Free) – Livermore, June 28

Kids Rock (Free) – Redwood City June 28

Seaside Story Hour (Free) – Redwood City, June 28

Cal Sailing Club Open House (Free) – Berkeley, June 29

Storytime at the Foster Museum – Palo Alto, June 1, 15

Family Storytelling at the Asian Art Museum (Free) – San Francisco, June 1

Butterfly and Bird Festival – Fremont, June 1

Red Panda Acrobats (Free) – San Francisco, June 6

First Friday at Chabot Space & Science Center – Oakland, June 6

Port of Oakland Harbor Tour (Free) – Oakland, June 6

The Nightingale by People’s Circus Theatre – San Francisco, June 6-22

Family Art Making – San Francisco, June 7

Environmental Center Open House (Free) – Cupertino, June 7, 14, 21, 28

Second Sunday for Families at SFMOMA – San Francisco, June 8

Family Dance (Free) – Berkeley, June 8

Viva Calle (Free) – San Jose, June 8

Marine Science Sundays at The Marine Mammal Center – Sausalito, June 8, 22

Blippi: Join the Band – Santa Rosa, June 11

Something Rotten – Berkeley, June 12-30

RhythmALLogy (Free) – San Francisco, June 13

Blankets and Blockbusters: The Princess and the Frog (Free) – San Francisco, June 13

San Jose Giants Fireworks – San Jose, June 13, 14, 27

Cartooning for the Whole Family – San Francisco, June 14

Biggest Little Airshow – San Carlos, June 14

Second Saturday at Gamble Garden – Palo Alto, June 14

Proud of My Family – San Jose, June 14

Dia de Portugal Festival – San Jose, June 14

Juneteenth Celebration – Santa Cruz, June 14

2nd Saturday on the Farm – Watsonville, June 14

Father’s Day Overnight on the USS Hornet – Alameda, June 14-15

Open Cockpit Day – Oakland, June 15

Sunday Streets – San Francisco, June 15

Fathers’ Day Bike About the Zoo – San Francisco, June 15

Kids Carnival at Hiller Aviation Museum – San Carlos, June 15

Fathers’ Day BBQ at Roaring Camp – Felton, June 15

Dragons Love Tacos – Palo Alto, June 18-July 6

Cupertino Campout – Cupertino, June 19

Juneteenth Community Celebration – San Jose, June 19

African-American Dance (Free) – San Jose, June 19

In May, the Peninsula comes alive with vibrant farmers markets offering a bounty of fresh, locally grown produce. This is an especially exciting month for food enthusiasts, as it marks the start of peak season for many fruits and vegetables in the Bay Area. Here's a guide to the farmers markets in and around San Mateo, along with a look at what's in season this month.

Farmers Markets in San Mateo

25th Ave. Farmers' Market

College of San Mateo Farmers' Market

Farmers Markets Nearby

Belmont Farmers Market

Burlingame Fresh Market
Farmers Market at the Peninsula Jewish Community Center
Foster City Farmers Market
Millbrae Farmers Market
San Carlos Farmers Market

What's in Season in May?

May is a delightful month for seasonal produce in the Bay Area, as summer tree fruits and other produce start to come into season. Here's what you can expect to find at your local farmers market:

Tips for Shopping at Farmers Markets

To make the most of your visit to the farmers market:

Whether you're a seasoned market-goer or a first-time visitor, Bay Area farmers markets offer a wonderful opportunity to enjoy fresh, local produce and connect with the community. Happy shopping and eating!

Doktor Kaboom! – Santa Rosa, May 16

Oakland Greek Festival – Oakland, May 16-18

Alice in Wonderland by Diablo Ballet – Walnut Creek, May 16, 17

SF Jazz Family Matinees – San Francisco, May 17

Family Tour at the de Young Museum – San Francisco, May 17

SkyJam Festival – Richmond, May 17

Wildlife Hike (Free) – El Sobrante, May 17

Kitten Nursery Shower – Burlingame, May 17

Open Cockpit Day at Hiller Aviation Museum – San Carlo, May 17

South Bay AANHPI Festival – San Jose, May 17

Super Scaly Critters – Los Gatos, May 17

Pride Picnic – Santa Cruz, May 17

Boardwalk Drone Show – Santa Cruz, May 17

Model Railroad Show – Walnut Creek, May 17, 18

Creative Patchwork – Morgan Hill, May 17, 24

The Aristocats Kids – Pleasanton, May 17-25

Wildflower Hike – Clayton, May 18

Family Dance (Free) – Berkeley, May 18

Cal Sailing Club Open House – Berkeley, May 18

Marin Greek Festival – Novato, May 23-25

The Sound of Music by Berkeley Rep – Berkeley, May 23 - June 29

Meet the Reptiles, Amphibians and More! – Los Altos Hills, May 24

Carnavale – San Francisco, May 24, 25

Oklahoma Kids – Danville, May 24, 25

The Little Mermaid – Palo Alto, May 24, 25

San Ramon Art & Wind Festival – San Ramon, May 25, 26

Memorial Day Bike Parade and Picnic – Tiburon, May 27

Parents Night Out at Axe – Oakland, May 30

San Jose Greek Festival – San Jose, May 30 - June 1

Matilda Jr – Danville, May 30 - June 8

Bay Area Book Festival (Free) – Berkeley, May 31

Seaside Story Hour (Free) – Redwood City, May 31

Dinosaur Train Days – Santa Rosa, May 31 & June 1

Curiodyssey First Friday Nights - San Mateo, May 2

First Friday at Chabot Space & Science Center – Oakland, May 2

Legally Blonde Jr – Pleasanton, May 2

Friday at The History Museum (Free) – Redwood City, May 2

Slavic Festival – San Francisco, May 2-3

Penguins & Pajamas Sleepover at Cal Academy – San Francisco, May 2, 9, 30

Home Depot Kids Workshop – Across Bay Area, May 3

de Youngsters Day Out (Free) – San Francisco, May 3

A Day at The Ranch – Pt. Reyes Station, May 3

Spring Fling at Slide Ranch – Muir Beach, May 3

Color Me Mine Kids Night Out – Alameda, May 3

May Fete Parade – Palo Alto, May 3

Percussion Discussion – Walnut Creek, May 3

Santa Clara University PowWow – Santa Clara, May 3

Kids Day – Santa Cruz, May 3

Marin Irish Festival – San Rafael, May 3, 4

Fun on the Farm (Free) – San Ramon, May 3, 10, 17, 31

Environmental Center Open House (Free) – Cupertino, May 3, 10, 17, 24, 31

Math Quest (Free) – San Francisco, May 4

Glider Discovery Day – San Carlos, May 4

Mother’s Day Tea – Redwood City, May 4

Riparian Habitat Tour – Cupertino, May 4

Peninsula School Spring Fair – Menlo Park, May 4

Neon Scorpion Hike – Clayton, May 3, 4, 10, 11

Wizard of Oz by Fantasy Forum – Walnut Creek, May 8-10

Stanford Powwow – Stanford, May 9-11

Tinker, Code & Create at The Exploratorium – San Francisco, May 10

Family Farm Day at Slide Ranch – Muir Beach, May 10

Habitot Mobile Museum – Berkeley, May 10

Brian Scott Magic – Berkeley, May 10

Scout-o-Rama – San Jose, May 10

Storytime: Crickwing – Los Gatos, May 10

Math Festival – Sunnyvale, May 10

Birds and their Nests – Los Alto Hills, May 10

2nd Saturday on the Farm – Watsonville, May 10

Hawaiian May Day Festival – Pleasanton, May 10-11

Willy Wonka Kids – Danville, May 10-18

Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical – San Francisco, May 10-25

Blankets and Blockbusters: Moana (Free) – San Francisco, May 11

Mother’s Day Tea at Falkirk – San Rafael, May 11

Kids’ Carnival at Hiller Aviation Museum – San Carlos, May 11

Mothers’ Day Brunch at Roaring Camp – Felton, May 11

Storytime at the Foster Museum – Palo Alto, May 11, 18

Marine Science Sundays at The Marine Mammal Center – Sausalito, May 11, 25

Sustainable Sewing for Teens – Ross, May 12

Before becoming a stay-at-home mom, I was a busy working parent juggling career demands, family responsibilities and the dreaded, never-ending to-do list. Even now, managing our home, planning meals and keeping up with everything my family needs takes serious time and energy. That’s where AI has been a game-changer for me.

What Is AI, and How Can It Help Parents?

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been around for a long time, and featured in many sci fi movies, but only in the last few years has it become more of an everyday support. Think of it as a super-efficient assistant that can answer questions, generate ideas and help streamline your workload. For busy moms, this means less time spent researching, planning and/or agonizing over decisions - and more time spent with your family.

How I Use AI as a Mom

Since incorporating AI into my daily life, I’ve found so many useful ways to help me stay organized, save time and reduce stress. Here are some of the most valuable ways I use it:

1. Meal Planning for the Whole Family

I used to spend too much time trying to come up with varied, healthy meal ideas that worked for my husband, toddler and myself. AI now helps me create meal plans that consider our dietary preferences and my son’s daycare lunches. It even helps me generate shopping lists so I don’t forget ingredients!

Prompt to try: “Create a weekly meal plan with easy, toddler-friendly lunches and family dinners. No bell peppers or curry.”

Bonus: Tell your AI tool what you have in your fridge and pantry and ask it to use what you have on hand. 

2. Quick Answers to Parenting Questions

From developmental milestones to weekend entertainment, sometimes I just need a quick answer without scrolling through endless search results. AI helps me find solutions fast - whether it’s a new activity to entertain my toddler or ideas for handling a nap transition.

Prompt to try:“ My 15-month-old is dropping to one nap. How should I adjust his schedule?”

Note: for any medical advice, please verify with a Doctor before proceeding with treatment.

3. Time-Saving Household Organization

Between managing a home and keeping up with my son’s needs, I’m always looking for ways to simplify. I’ve used AI to create structured weekly routines, decluttering checklists and even strategies for getting my husband more involved in household tasks.

Prompt to try: “Help me create a weekly home organization routine that includes meal prep, laundry, and daycare drop-offs.”

4. Personal Goals & Self-Care

Being a mom doesn’t mean I want to lose sight of my own goals. Whether it’s finding ways to be more active, planning a girls’ trip or picking up golf (so I can play 18 holes with my dad by 2026!), AI helps me break down my goals into actionable steps.

Prompt to try: “Create a simple weekly workout plan for a busy mom, including walking and light strength training.”

Why AI Works for Busy Moms

I know some people might feel hesitant about using AI, but for me, it’s been a way to lighten my mental load. Instead of feeling overwhelmed by decision fatigue, I can get quick, personalized suggestions and focus more on what really matters - spending time with my son, staying present and finding joy in everyday moments.

If you’re a busy mom looking for ways to simplify your life, I highly recommend giving AI a try. Start with a few prompts and see how it helps you save time and stress. You might be surprised at just how much of a difference it makes!

First observed in 1958, National Library Week, sponsored by the American Library Association, occurs each April. In 2025, it is celebrated April 6-12.

The San Mateo Public Library Foundation is spotlighting the programming that the Library offers, including many special events. There are quite a few kid- and family-friendly activities, including:

• Any time during March 1 - April 9, go on a self-paced scavenger hunt that involves visiting one or all three branches of the San Mateo Public Library (with a chance to prizes).
• On April 6, bring the whole family to check out all the library-related programming and performances at a festival in the main library, including storytime, a magic show, puppets, and music.
• On April 7, SF Shakes will be performing a shortened version of Romeo and Juliet geared toward students.
• Also on April 7, enjoy the first-ever Library Night with the SF Giants!
• Parents, test your knowledge at Trivia Night on April 11.
• To wrap it all up on April 12, bilingual educator and performer José-Luis Orozco will host an afternoon of community fun including live music and the winners of the children's poetry contest and scavenger hunt will be announced.

More details can be found at: www.sanmateocelebrates.com. Burlingame has events too!

After the week is over, visit the San Mateo Public Library to take advantage of its regular offerings. Did you know that you can:

• Attend book clubs and other meetups, as well as storytimes (including baby, toddler, family, and many more)
• Take your kids to watch movies (including after school movie clubs and Saturday morning cartoons)
• Sign up for crafting and other classes
• Borrow a California State Parks Pass and equipment (backpack kit and child carrier backpack kit)
• Access free seeds from the seed bank to plant in your garden
• Get assistance with your computer or electronic device from Tech Help
• Use or borrow various equipment, such as sewing machines, induction stove kits, portable photo studios, and lots more
• Reserve museum passes through Discover and Go

All of this is available for free, as long as you have a library card!

Free First Tuesday at the Conservatory of Flowers - San Francisco, April 1

Spring in the Garden at Cal Academy - San Francisco, April 1 – 28

First Thursday at SFMOMA - San Francisco, April 3

Curiodyssey First Friday Nights - San Mateo, April 4

Academy Day at Cal Academy - San Francisco, April 4

Spring Wildflower Hike at Edgewood Park and Natural Preserve - Redwood City, April 4-5

Home Depot Kids Workshop – Bay Area, April 5

San Francisco International Chocolate Salon - San Francisco, April 6

Egg Adventure Hunt – Belmont, April 8

Waitress – San Jose, April 11-20

Bug Day at the Randall Museum - San Francisco, April 12

Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival – San Francisco, April 12-13, 19-20

ZooKids – Oakland, April 12, 26

Marine Science Sundays – Sausalito, April 13, 27

Trains and Planes at Hiller – San Carlos, April 14

Eggstravaganza - San Mateo, April 19

Holi SplashOMania – Fremont, April 19

Elephant & Piggie's "We are in a Play!" Jr. – Palo Alto, April 24 – May 11

Once Upon A Mattress – San Jose, April 24-27

Cow Palace Spring Fair – Daly City, April 24-27

Earth Day Cleanup – San Mateo, April 26

Kids Night at the Museum – Santa Rosa, April 26

DogFest – San Francisco, April 26

Cal Sailing Open House – Berkeley, April 26

The Princess and the Frog – Palo Alto, April 26, 27

We are fortunate to have a wonderful group of members who have volunteered their time to serve on the SMPC Board. It’s a fun group to work with and a great way to make more parent/community connections. If you’re interested in helping out, we’re still looking for members to be part of one of the most teams, Events! Contact events@sanmateoparentsclub.org if interested.

Erika Reed President I live in Brisbane and have 1 daughter who is 22 months old. I have been the President for a little over a year. I was drawn to the club as a new mother because I was looking to make new parent friends who were going through the same crazy phase of life as myself. This is an all-volunteer organization and when the club was looking to fill roles, I felt compelled to step up. I've found many friends and support by joining and serving on the board. I loved our Trunk or Treat event at Halloween where I decorated my trunk like a farm - it was perfect for my toddler who had a blast going around to the different cars! For parents, I've especially loved the Little Llamas book club and trivia night!	Stephanie Hamilton Vice President My husband Victor and I are from Houston, TX and moved to San Mateo in 2021. We have one adorable 20-month-old named Alice and another baby girl on the way (due April 11th!). As VP, I support our members and volunteers wherever needed - but I am mainly focused on our yearly Preschool Fair! We maintain extensive info on our local preschools, so please feel free to contact me if you're going through the childcare selection process. This is one of the biggest benefits of being a part of the club! When I joined SMPC around this time last year, I was just trying to get out of the house with the baby to avoid going stir-crazy. But since then, my entire family has made great new friends, and I've found a lot of personal fulfillment participating in the Parents Club and local community. I hope the SMPC is able to do the same for you. We try to make it to every club event, so come say "Hi!" if you see us!
Wenjia Zhao Treasurer I live in San Mateo city, near Hillsdale. I have a toddler son who’s turning 3 in April! As Treasurer, I help the club manage its expenses, process reimbursements and payments, monitor its budget, and handle any other financial matters. I really enjoyed the events and wanted to help out. I’ve been a member of the Board since September 2023. My favorite SMPC event is the Highlands Pool Party! We really like the shallow kiddie pool, and the food at the party has been really tasty.	Sarah Portnov Fundraising I live in San Mateo. I have three kids - Alina (7), Stas (4.5), & Anya (2.5) I am the fundraising chair & I've been on the board for 2 years. I wanted to get more involved in the community & make some new friends. I love the Moms' Night Out events! Parents Trivia Night was really fun & the magic show in the park was a favorite for my family.
Luna Wei Membership I live in San Mateo with 1 child who is 11 months old. Just joined this February as membership coordinator so I've been on the board for just under a month! I joined because I want to invest in the causes and community I want to see more of. I actually haven't yet attended any official SMPC event but the playgroup I'm a part of has been so active and has organized their own events which have been so enriching to attend. We've done a 2025 vision planning event and floral arrangements that have been my favorites. It's an amazing group of parents.	Haidee Pang Playgroups/Parent Pairings/ Book Club I live in San Mateo and I have a 21-month-old boy named Mason. I am the Bookclub/Playgroup Coordinator and just recently started being in this position for a few months. I felt very isolated as a stay at home mom and thought this would be a great way to meet new people and be a part of something. Still learning the ropes but really excited to give back to this wonderful community! My favorite event has to be the CuriOdyssey party! It had everything I could ask for in an event: great food, awesome conversation, super fun science installations, and a raffle! Definitely cannot be beat.
Jeanette LeFevre Communications I live in San Mateo and have one son, Elliott, who is 17 months old I'm Communications co-chair so the newsletter and all things blog! I just joined the board this year because I want to be more involved and meet more local families! I've really enjoyed the parents night out but looking forward to more fun events in the future!	Elizabeth Wright Communications I live in San Mateo and have an 18-month-old daughter, Sophia. With Jeanette, I produce the monthly newsletter and write regular blog posts. I just joined in January because I really appreciate everything that the Club does and wanted to give back some time. Plus, it’s a fun group to work with! I think the Winter Party at CuriOdyssey has been my favorite event, though Trunk or Treat and some of the playgroup events are close seconds.
Xiao Li Social Media & Promotions Advertising & Discounts Hi! I'm Xiao Li, and I live in San Mateo. I had my first baby last November, and he’s now almost four months old. I am the Social Media and Advertising Coordinator and have been on the board for about six months. I first discovered the club while I was pregnant and looking for a local community of expecting parents and families. Since then, I’ve met many wonderful friends and families through both the board and the club. I’m grateful for such a welcoming and supportive community. So far, my favorite event has been the Ice-cream Social. Since my baby is still little, I haven’t had the chance to participate in many events yet, but I’m looking forward to bringing him to more activities in the years to come.	Hailey Weiss Community Service Coordinator I live in San Mateo and have one kiddo aged 2. I joined the board this year as the Community Service Coordinator and I was drawn to the role because I love meeting members of my community and giving back. My favorite SMPC events are the Moms Night Out and casual park events where kiddos get to run around and play together.
Olivia Allen-Price Events I live in San Mateo and have one son, Sullivan, who is 4, and another boy due in May. This is my second year as an events coordinator. I joined the board because I enjoyed the SMPC events I attended as a member and had ideas about some fun things the club could do! I see my service on the board as a way to invest in my community, and help make San Mateo an even better place to raise a family. Last year's Trunk or Treat event was such a display of creativity! From the costumes everyone wore, to the creative ways they decorated their cars. It was fun to share Halloween fun with the youngest members of our community, who might not be able to stay up late enough to try trick-or-treating door to door!	Ekta Badiyani Webmaster I live in Foster City and have 2 kids – a 4 year old and a 1 year old I'm the webmaster/tech admin on the board and have been on the board since 2022. Fellow board members and being involved in the community drew me to join the board. Lemos Farms' fall/Halloween event was my favorite. Great fun for the kids and adults!