Kidspace Children's Museum Wired for Wonder

Family Fun

by Rachel Marks

Kids Editor

This kids museum is without a doubt one of our family's favorite places to go. Our most recent visit felt extra special because of Kidspace's current limited time immersive exhibit: Wired for Wonder -- A Multisensory Maze, in collaboration with Getty Museum's PST ART: Art and Science Collide. Our kids just love spending time here. Come to think of it, Kidspace special exhibits, like last summer's Kidspace Campout which I reviewed, are always well-curated and lots of fun for everyone. Thanks to Kidspace Children’s Museum in Pasadena for providing us with media access for Wired for Wonder for this review. Read on to learn all about this popular kid friendly Southern California family attraction.

 

For Babies, Toddlers, Kids 6 Months - 10 Years Old

The Wired for Wonder Maze was hands down the highlight of our trip this time around. It’s not just about finding your way through a maze -- it’s a full sensory experience where kids (and adults) can see, hear, smell, and feel their way through different challenges. My kids love to touch, climb, and explore so this was right up their alley. 

As soon as we stepped into the area dedicated to Wired for Wonder, Izzy (6), Ori (4), and Arya (2) were completely captivated. The maze is designed to be more than just a path from point A to point B to point C. It’s filled with interactive elements along the way that encourage curiosity, exploration, problem-solving, and a bit of teamwork.

Favorite Wonder Maze Activities

• The Color-Changing Pathways -- Our eldest son Izzy was obsessed with, figuring out how the lights worked while stepping back and forth to test different patterns. Younger brother Ori, on the other hand, was more interested in running through as fast as possible, laughing the whole time.
• The Smell-o-Phone Booth -- Watching the boys take turns sniffing different scents and making wild guesses was hilarious. One smelled like oranges, which they got right, but another was apparently "definitely pizza" (spoiler: it was not). Arya kept trying to climb inside the booth, thinking there was something exciting hidden in there. 
• The Textures Station -- Ori loved the part where they had to feel different materials and guess what they were. He closed his eyes and ran his hands over everything like a little scientist. Arya, meanwhile, just giggled and patted every surface as fast as she could. 
• The Tasting Station -- At the end the tasting station was a such a cool surprise! The kids got to try different flavors and guess what they were. Ori, who is usually my pickiest eater, was surprisingly into it, while Izzy insisted that everything tasted like “spicy bananas” (no idea where he got that from). 

Child-Tested, Mom- and Dad-Approved

What I loved the most as a parent was that the special Wired for Wonder exhibition space had something different that was fun, educational and engaged each of our three children, despite their different ages and personalities. Usually, someone ends up bored or frustrated, but this exhibit really engaged all of them. My husband and I took turns guiding them through different sections, and sometimes we split up so they could explore at their own pace.

 

More of My Kids Fave Kidspace Adventures 

After the maze, the kids still had plenty of energy to burn off, so we hit some of Kidspace's permanent areas.

Bottle Launcher and Pulleys -- If it involves pushing buttons and making things fly, my kids (and I bet your kids) are always in

Rock Climbing and Instruments -- This activity is good mix of mental challenges, physical movement and creativity. 

Farm Area Sandbox -- My daughter could have stayed here forever, happily digging and building. I think yours will likely enjoy this just as much. Afterall, what kid doesn't like getting a little dirty, right?

After those fun activities, we took a snack break by the water. This gave everyone a chance to catch their breath before heading back for more fun and exploration in the permanent areas of the museum. Both indoors and outside there is literally so much here to keep kids busy and engaged based on their interests and energy levels.

Final Thoughts: Why We Love Kidspace 

Kidspace just gets it when it comes to kids. There’s so much space to explore, plenty of spots to sit and take a break, and the staff is always so friendly and helpful. It never feels overwhelming, even when it gets busy, which makes a huge difference when you have little ones running in different directions. 

Before we arrived, Izzy was skeptical -- he thought Kidspace might be “too babyish” for him. But after trying Wired for Wonder he completely changed his mind. In fact, he said it was one of his favorite things we’ve done there which, coming from a six-year-old, is pretty high praise. If you have kids and either live in or visit Southern California and you're looking for something fun and hands-on, Kidspace and the Wired for Wonder maze are definitely worth checking out. Also, don't miss all the butterfly-related activities now that the 29th Annual Butterfly Season has begun at Kidspace.

We’ll definitely be back soon. Next time, we’ll probably stay even longer! Have you been to Kidspace? Please feel free to leave a comment, I’d love to hear what your kids think of this experience.

About Kidspace

Visit kidspacemuseum.org for hours, activity schedule and to reserve general admission tickets for Kidspace Children's Museum, sign up for a Family Membership, and to discover more about Kidspace offerings year-round. Kidspace is geared toward kids ages 6 months through 10 years-old. For the youngest ones, for crawlers and non-crawlers there are age-appropriate toys and areas to explore. For the older kids, there are fun, educational, and hands-on opportunities to discover. The children's 3.5 acre indoor and outdoor space features 40 interactive exhibits with daily events and special monthly programs. Stay in the loop on everything Kidspace is up to by following their social media channels on Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, and Instagram. 

Kidspace is located at 480 North Arroyo Boulevard, Pasadena, California 91103; phone 626-449-9144.

Easter Gift Guide for Kids, Adults

Easter 2025

Unique Ideas for Every Generation

For this Easter season, we've gathered the best ideas for Easter gifts that are truly memorable both for the givers and the recipients. There's something truly unique here for every age group from young children and older kids to tweens and teens, 20-somethings, parents, grandparents and beyond.

Post Contains Affiliate Links, Some Products Featured Received for Review

Easter Baskets Filled With Imported Treats

Easter Baskets aren't just for children, right? Here's something really unique and special for that kid-like grownup in your life or that teen who is hard to please. 

Supermarket Italy offers an imaginative array of curated gift baskets with items from around the world. The Easter basket pictured at the top of this story is just one example featuring an assortment sourced from 44 countries -- including classic Italian chocolate treats like hazelnut pralines from Italy. Basket elements also are gathered from elsewhere in Europe as well from North America, Africa, the Middle East, the Caribbean, South America, and Australia. Each basket is beautifully packed with a global mix of sweet seasonal imported treats and wrapped by hand. 

These are definitely not your usual ready-made Easter baskets. In addition to these Easter Baskets, an extensive selection of gift baskets and individual imported items are also offered throughout the year. 

Available exclusively from Supermarket Italy

Baby Bunny Cakelet Pan

The lightweight aluminum bunny baking pan from Nordic Ware is the perfect gift to give someone who loves to bake. The resulting six baby rabbit mini cakes are absolutely darling, perfect for spring entertaining. 

Available on Amazon

Easter Bunny Toy Building Set

This buildable Easter Bunny with 72 pieces (small pieces, so not suitable for little ones) will entertain anyone over the age of 8 years old  for hours. Strickly Briks guarantees a tight fit of all pieces as this unique Easter Bunny project is put together. Made with quality materials, these bricks are sturdy, durable and 100% compatible with all major brands. Give this kit alone or tuck it into an Easter Basket. Great price, so these will sell out fast.

Available on Amazon

3-in-1 Animal Construction Set

From LEGO comes this fun 326-piece brick set to build an Easter Bunny that, when completed, stands 7-1/2 inches tall with joints that move so you can pose him in a variety of positions. Follow the directions and you can also make two more animals by reusing the bricks in this set to construct a really cute llama and a seal. Adorable accessories are included with each of the three animals. A gift in itself that's perfect for Easter for kids and kid-like adults who love building with LEGOs. 

Available on Amazon

Kids Bunny Veterinarian Doctor Toy Kit

What a fun and educational pink colored doctor vet kit for toddler and little girls. Everything pictured in this 22 piece set, including the pink plush bunny and kid-sized veterinarian's coat, plus all the tools, is included. A great way to inspire young girls to acquire STEM skills. 

Available on Amazon

AI-Enhanced Digital Photo Frame

Last but not least, why not consider a digital photo frame as a family gift? Don't be sad when you have to return home after spending Easter vacation with your family or friends. This is a gift that keeps on giving to both the recipient and giver, making it possible to privately share photo and video memories across the miles with loved ones, rather than over social media. Already in use by 4 million customers, Nixplay Digital Frames like this 10 inch model which is available with your choice of frame: wood, black or white to suit all kinds of home lifestyles. It's easy to set up and use and is enhanced by AI for perfectly-centered images.

Available on Amazon 

Disclosure: MBE participates in the Amazon Affiliate and other affiliate programs. We receive a bit of compensation, at no extra cost to you, when readers click on the links in this post and make a purchase. However, opinions here are honest and our own.

Easter Bunny Bars Kids Dessert Recipe

Good Food

Easter Bunny Bars

This post contains affiliate links

This festive colorful popcorn bars recipe from the Popcorn Board is a fun and easy Easter treat kids will love to eat as much as they'll enjoy helping you make. The recipe is simple, however, since you'll be using a hot stove and oven to make these delicious holiday dessert gems, keep younger children safe by having them help you with age-appropriate steps in this recipe.

Easy Easter Dessert Recipe

Yield: Serves 16 

Ingredients 

2 tbsp butter 

3 and 1/2 cups miniature marshmallows, divided 

1 tsp vanilla extract 

8 cups popped popcorn 

1 and 1/2 cups candy-coated miniature eggs 

2 tbsp pastel sprinkles or bunny sprinkles or 

Simple Directions

Melt butter in large saucepan set over medium-low heat; stir in 3 cups marshmallows, and vanilla until melted. Remove from heat. Immediately stir in popcorn until well coated. Press into parchment paper–lined and greased 13- x 9-inch baking pan; smooth top with greased spatula. Immediately sprinkle with remaining marshmallows, miniature eggs and sprinkles; press toppings lightly to adhere to popcorn layer. Let stand for about 30 minutes or until set. Cut into bars. Store in airtight container. 

Other Ideas

Use colored mini marshmallows, if preferred 

Try Reese's Popcorn which comes already popped, drizzled in peanut butter and chocolate 

Drizzle melted dark, milk or white chocolate over the top of your bars

To All Those Celebrating

Happy Easter!

Disclosure: Mommy Blog Expert participates in the Amazon Affiliates program and we receive a small bit of compensation, at no extra costs to you, when you click on the links in this post and make a purchase

Everyday Accessories for Moms on the Go

Style

Busy Mama's Guide to Looking Put Together 

by Janis Brett Elspas, Editor

Mommy Blog Expert

MBE partnered with Responsival, post contains affiliate links

Whether you're a devoted soccer mom or a grandma driving the kids around town, feeling put together, rather than frazzled, makes all the difference. Even on hectic days, basic styling choices such as simple pearl necklaces -- my favorite everyday accessory -- can lift your spirit and confidence. Instantly elevate your daytime look, adding a touch of effortless elegance with the right accessories and you'll step out the door looking and feeling fabulous.

7 Every Day Mom Accessorizing Tips

• Statement Jewelry: A casual pearl necklace, stylish hoop earrings along with the latest Apple Watch instantly upgrade your outfit, adding a polished timelessness to moms of every age.

• Daytime Makeup: A quick 5-minute day face routine every morning can refine and energize your appearance. Start with a daily micro exfoliator, followed by brightening face moisturizer for a natural glow, some blush, and a swipe of mascara to brighten your look effortlessly.

• A Simple Hairstyle: Manage fussy hair with a headband, sleek ponytail, top bun, or alligator clip updo. For really bad hair days, a creatively tied head scarf is an easy fix.

• A Compact Crossbody Bag: Preferred by today's young moms, lightweight shoulder strap phone wallet bags offer handsfree convenience with purse size capacity thanks to multiple compartments for phone, credit cards and keys. No mom caring for kids or grandkids should be without one.

• Comfortable Footwear: Stylish, supportive shoes, like cushioned slip-on sneakers or ballet flats are a must, so you're ready for walking on all sorts of surfaces indoors and outside.

• On Trend Eyewear: No matter the season versatile sunglasses, available in an array of stylish frames to complement every skin color and face shape, keep eyes protecting while also adding a cool factor for all moms generations.

• A Stylish Wrap/Cardigan: Always a good idea to bring along a lightweight wrap, jacket or sweater in a neutral tone for easy layering, providing function and sophistication for a timeless look.

Be Creative With How You Accessorize

Pearls when worn with jeans and tennis shoes is just one idea for a great mom'a look that's easy to pull off. The sky's the limit in how you incorporate your personal style into accessorizing your on the go life. With these must-have accessories you can take on each day with joy, energy, casual style and confidence. Thus proving that busy moms and grandmothers -- even with multiple children in tow -- can look relaxed, together and just plain fabulous every day.

No Address Film Spotlights Homeless Crisis

Movies 

by Janis Brett Elspas, Editor 

Mommy Blog Expert 

MBE received press access to facilitate this story 

Opening in Theaters Nationwide

Get ready to help make the world a better place after seeing this powerful new drama. No Address from Robert Craig Films (2025, PG-13), opens in theaters today, shining a much-needed light on the growing crisis of homelessness in America. Based on true events, this film tells the deeply human stories of adults and kids experiencing homelessness through its fictitious characters to illustrate the diverse and complicated reasons people find themselves without a place to call home. With the homeless population now reaching 2.7 million -- more than half of whom are children -- No Address serves as a compelling and urgent call for awareness, action, and change. 

Homelessness Happens to All Kinds of People

Directed by Julia Verdin and filmed in Sacramento, California, the film introduces a range of interesting personality types, each facing unique hardships. Isabella Ferreira (Gray Matter), as Lauren is a young woman who ages out of the foster care system and is left to fend for herself. Lucas Jade Zumann (Dr. Bird's Advice for Sad Poets) as Jimmy takes Lauren under his wing, introducing her to a makeshift homeless community and his fellow encampment residents Xander Berkeley (The Mentalist, Shanghai Noon) as Harris; Beverly D’Angelo (National Lampoon's Vacation film series) as Dora; and Grammy-Award winning singer Ashanti who plays Violet, a war vet suffering from PTSD. Together, these characters form a family-like support system, showcasing the resilience and strength often found in those struggling to survive on the streets.

-> Watch the Official Trailer 

One of the film’s most heartbreaking storylines follows a family of three -- a father, mother, and their young son -- who are evicted from their home. The father, portrayed by William Baldwin (Backdraft, The Squid and the Whale), loses his job and, due to gambling and alcohol addictions, can't pay the bills. Meanwhile his wife Gabrielle, played by Patricia Velásquez, is employed as an ER doctor working double shifts but still cannot prevent the loss of their home. Their devastating descent into homelessness highlights how, for many families with kids, it is not a matter of choice but unfortunate circumstances beyond their control.

The film also features Ty Pennington (ABC’s Extreme Makeover: Home Edition) as Mr. Mills, a compassionate advocate working to provide aid and solutions for the homeless. Pennington and Kristanna Loken (Terminator 3) as Kim further enrich the narrative with their stellar performances, portraying caring involved individuals striving to make a difference in a system that often turns a blind eye. 

Director and Cast at No Address Los Angeles Premiere

Despite Hardship, Hope Still Exists for the Homeless

While No Address presents the harsh realities of life on the streets -- job loss, addiction, eviction, violence, and the struggles of adults and kids just trying to survive -- it also offers hope. It emphasizes that homelessness is not a permanent state and that with empathy, love, and kindness, those affected can find their way back home. The film challenges viewers to reconsider their perceptions of homelessness, recognizing that these individuals are not defined by their circumstances but by their strength and humanity. 

In the film’s conclusion, a list of No Address partner resources is displayed, providing tangible ways for the public to contribute to ending homelessness. Whether through donating to shelters, supporting rehabilitation programs, volunteering time, or advocating for policy change, there is a role each of us can play to eradicate homelessness. 

Ultimately, No Address is more than just a movie -- it’s a movement. It urges us to open our hearts and minds, to extend a helping hand rather than a judgmental gaze, and to work toward a world where no one is forced to sleep on the streets. Compassion does change lives, and with a collective effort, we can ensure that every person, young and old, has a place to call home.

More About this Film 

Buy tickets now to see No Address in theaters nationwide starting February 28. Robert Craig Films has pledged 50% of the net profits from this film to organizations supporting the homeless community.  Director Julia Verdin is also the founder and is on the board of the non-profit Artists for Change which aims to raise awareness on key social issues through film and media. Learn more by visiting noaddressmovie.com and following on social media @noaddressmovie and @robertcraigfilmsofficial.

DISCLOSURE: Many thanks to Robert Craig Films for providing access to screen No Address to facilitate this review. Opinions here are 100% my own.