On January 1, 2015, I published my first blog post on dsm4kids, and it feels fitting that today, January 1, 2025, I’m writing my final post. After much reflection, I’ve made the difficult decision to move on from dsm4kids. While…
Read MoreAuthor: Nicole Opfer
Winter Sports Guide: Snow Shoeing, Skiing, Snow Tubing and More Near Des Moines
Think cool, fresh air against your cheeks, hot cocoa around the fire, and quality outdoor time with your kids! Participating in or trying out a new winter sport is the perfect cure for cabin fever and the winter doldrums. For…
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The Best Sledding Hills in the Des Moines Area
The best thing about a snow day is, of course, sledding! dsm4kids rounded up where to sled in Des Moines. When it snows, hit one of these neighborhood hills across the Des Moines metro for some wintertime fun with the kids.
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Best Indoor Playgrounds in Des Moines
There is an affliction that strikes homes across the Midwest every winter. It’s not COVID or the flu. Not the common cold. It’s cabin fever – that point when it’s too cold to go outside and the thought of playing…
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25 Things to Do on New Year’s Day in Des Moines
Shake off the post-party glitter, grab some coffee and usher in 2025! dsm4kids has rounded up 25 things to do with the family on New Year’s Day in Des Moines. New Year’s Day is the perfect time to begin anew…
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Read This, Do That This Winter in Des Moines
Winter in Des Moines is a magical time for both reading and exploring local attractions. By pairing a great winter-themed book with an exciting local outing, you can create fun and memorable experiences for the whole family. Here’s how you…
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Arts & Culture
Attractions
Camps & Classes
Family Celebrations & Holidays
Indoor Activities
Local Guides
Outdoor Activities
25 FREE Things to Do with Your Kids Over Winter Holiday Break in Des Moines
From December 21, 2024 through January 5, 2025, Des Moines students are officially on holiday break. As your family gears up for days of gleeful abandon (or mass chaos;), we’ve pulled together some fun FREE ideas for things to do…
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Family Friendly New Year’s Eve Celebrations in Des Moines
Ring in the new year with your kids in Des Moines! Many of these events do not require that they stay up until midnight. Whether you do or not is up to you. Let’s celebrate the end of 2024! If…
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Celebrating Kwanzaa with Kids in Des Moines
As the holiday season approaches in Des Moines, families are gearing up for various festive celebrations that reflect the rich tapestry of cultural diversity in our community. One such vibrant and meaningful celebration is Kwanzaa – a cultural holiday that…
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Arts & Culture
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Outdoor Activities
Parenting
Winter Holiday Break Survival Guide for Des Moines Families
Winter break is just around the corner, and while the season might bring chilly temperatures, Des Moines offers a plethora of exciting camps and activities to keep your kids engaged and entertained. Don’t let the winter blues set in—explore the…
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8 Ways to Celebrate Hanukkah with Des Moines Kids
Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is a joyous celebration that holds great significance for Jewish families around the world. This year, Hanukkah starts at sundown on Wednesday, December 25, 2024, and concludes on Thursday, January 2, 2025….
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Fun Ways to Celebrate the Winter Solstice With Des Moines Kids
The winter solstice, the shortest day of the year, is a magical moment that marks the transition to longer days and the return of sunlight. In 2024, the solstice falls on Saturday, December 21. Celebrate this special day with your…
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Family-Friendly Coffee Shops in Des Moines
Some days, you just need to treat yourself to a cozy coffee break away from home or recharge with a pick-me-up during a busy day of family activities. Good news: you don’t have to give up visiting cool local coffee…
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Arts & Culture
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Entertainment
Family Celebrations & Holidays
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Shopping
Sports & Recreation
Experience Gift Ideas for Des Moines Kids
Does it feel like your kids already have more toys and stuff than they know what to do with? Experience gifts can be a great gift option not only for kids, but parents and other gift-givers too. With an experience…
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