I would say with confidence that we’ve all frantically waved goodbye to 2020. Although we pride ourselves on tenacity and grit here in the Midwest, we’ve been hit hard and faced some unique challenges, especially when it comes to parenting.

This is my first assignment as a “Cooler Mom” writer and things I would “normally” be doing with my kids have changed or even stopped completely for their safety and the safety of others. However, fun things still exist and I’m here to share some of them with you.

Out of all the chaos, I’ve witnessed some pretty spectacular acts of kindness from our local businesses and I would like to return that by committing to supporting local entities. Through a search of two Facebook pages GFK Community Support COVID-19 and Things to do with Kids in Grand Forks, ND, I found a few activities and businesses that are keeping COVID in mind as well as fun kid activities:

 

1. Archives Coffee

House Dakota Harvest Caramel Rolls… I don’t really need to say more but I am so thankful Archives has this (kid-approved) recipe and of course, delicious coffee (mom-approved)! For those newer to the region, the Dakota Harvest Bakery was a staple in downtown Grand Forks. After the owners decided to retire, Archives was given the caramel roll recipe and carries on its sweet legacy. Word on the street is they recently added a brunch menu 11:30 am – 3:00 pm on Saturdays and Sundays and I’m looking forward to taking my daughters for a girls’ trip.

 

2. ArtWise

In addition to their annual ArtWise Show, a new art program called “Take & Make” includes take-home projects, complete with supplies and instructions. Take & Make art packs can be picked up during operating hours at the North Dakota Museum of Art, Grand Forks Public Library (curbside pickup), and St. Joseph’s Social Care & Thrift Store. For more information: takeNmakeproject@gmail.com

 

3. Balloons by Misti

Balloons by Misti is located in Columbia Mall and they provide custom balloon orders for any occasion. Colorful sculptures of balloons twisted in gravity-defying ways have saved more than one virtual birthday party. They are currently running an “Adopt a Grandparent” campaign with senior living facilities. For $15, you can sponsor a buddy and bring a smile to a senior in the community.

 

4. Grand Forks Public Library

Letting my kiddos stroll through stacks of books and pick their latest reading adventure is made possible by the Grand Forks Public Library‘s handy 45-minute appointments that families can book on Tuesday, Thursday, or Saturday. Just call 701-772-8116 on weekdays to book an appointment – or you can place an order and pick it up curbside!

 

5. North Dakota Museum of Art

The North Dakota Museum of Art turns my kids into mini Frida Kahlos. With classes limited to 8 people and a personal instructor, kids can learn about landscape drawing, paper sculpture making, or linear crosshatching from talented artists. The museum is open for walkthroughs on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Sunday from 12:00 – 5:00 pm or by appointment. My family cannot wait for their “Concerts in the Garden” event to light up summer nights again. The concert series is postponed this year, but you can bet we’ll be in the front row of every future performance. Did you know the NDMOA rents space for photography sessions? Call 701-777-4195 for availability, price, and complete information.

 

6. Real Good Cookies

Imagine, if you will, a red velvet cookie stuffed with Oreos and white chocolate chips. Owner Sarah Horak recently collaborated on a fundraiser for my child’s school, and I bought several of her delicious cookies. We can confirm they are, indeed, real good. She is always coming up with ingenious cookie combinations, visit Real Good Cookies to order or stop by Brick and Barley to stock up on the freshest batch.

This is not a comprehensive list! Many more Grand Forks businesses and spaces are family-friendly and community-oriented. Whether your family has recently moved here or has been laying low for the last year, Grand Forks offers unique experiences and many fun kid activities. Some are long-standing traditions that are well-known, others are hidden gems tucked away but waiting to be explored. As things begin to operate in the new normal, I will be here attempting to get my “COOL” back.

For more fun kid activities check out #gfiscooler list of things kids love!