family movies

It's scary how much fun you'll have at this free Halloween Family Movie Night that kicks off with a costume parade!

ROBOTS Opens at the Saint Louis Science Center

Today's robots are nothing short of astonishing. Those coming in the not-too distant future are simply revolutionary – and they are becoming eerily like us. What does it take to make a humanoid robot – a robot that can do anything we can do without the benefit of a human brain?

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Humpback Whales Opens at the Saint Louis Science Center

Their songs captured our hearts and their story will inspire you forever. An extraordinary journey into the mysterious world of one of nature's most awe-inspiring marine mammals, Humpback Whales takes audiences to Alaska, Hawaii and the remote islands of Tonga for an up-close look at how these whales communicate, sing, feed, play and take care of their young.

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Butterflies Have Never Been So Mesmerizing

A trip to the movies is supposed to be a fun form of family entertainment, but finding a film that appeals to children and adults alike – and contains subject matter that is suitable for all ages – can be quite the challenge for today’s parents.

Throw in substandard sequels (I’m looking at you Ice Age 4) and Hollywood’s escalating penchant for using its family films as mere marketing vehicles (just see last year’s partnership between The Lorax and a certain Mazda SUV), and it’s difficult to know what kind of movies are right for family audiences.

What Are We Supposed to Watch?

Don’t get me wrong – there’s a time and a place for those Hollywood films. Even shiny 3-D blockbusters with plots that don’t make sense (Cars 2 anyone?), outdated gender stereotypes (every Disney movie ever made), and massive marketing campaigns (think Happy Meal toys) can be good for a few laughs. I’m not ashamed to admit that Ice Age 3: Dawn of the Dinosaurs is probably one of my favorite movies ever made.

Stop judging. It’s that damn weasel, Buck. He gets me every time.

As a mom, though, I find myself wanting to also introduce my kids to films that, well, offer a bit more.

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Things to Do

Kindergarten Prep

Thursday, September 28, 2023

Saturday, September 30, 2023

Tuesday, October 3, 2023

Your child is old enough to start kindergarten, are they ready? Are you? At this special presentation, both you and your child will get a brief overview of what is expected before your child even enters the classroom. You'll also receive a free backpack and school supplies. Registration is required.

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Sensory Story Time

Thursday, September 28, 2023

Monday, October 2, 2023

Monday, October 9, 2023

Sensory Story Time is geared to families with young children who are on the autism spectrum or who have sensory needs. Children of all abilities are welcome.

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Trike Town at The Magic House

Adventures abound at Trike Town, the outdoor, child-size city at The Magic House. Kids can pick out their favorite little red tricycle and explore the entire city. The adventure includes a stop at the craft shop, where kids can create their own fall-themed craft, a candy shop, firehouse and more.

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Teaching in Room 9 from Nine PBS

New this season, Teaching in Room 9 takes learning beyond the classroom as viewers discover our region's resources. Children will explore the coloring wall at the Missouri History Museum, learn about dinosaurs at the Saint Louis Science Center, and experience African art and mummies at the Saint Louis Art Museum, just to name a few.

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Daytime Playtime at Olympia Gymnastics

Thursday, September 28, 2023

Monday, October 2, 2023

Daytime Playtime is an open gym for children ages 2-5 where the possibilities for fun and learning (through fun) are endless! Children will participate in activities that build coordination, strength, balance and self-confidence. They'll develop stronger motor skills, social skills, and take part in theme-based creative activities

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For over 25 years, Purina® Pro Plan® has given incredible canine athletes the platform to showcase their amazing abilities in exciting events like dock diving, flying disc, agility and more! Watch incredible dogs from across the country compete in the Incredible Dog Challenge National Finals on September 30th, 10:30 a.m. - 4 p.m., at Purina Farms. Bring the family, grab a bite to eat, shop from local retailers and witness incredible dogs in action. Admission is free. Parking is $5. Parking capacity is limited and registration is required. A portion of your parking fee will be donated to Open Door Animal Sanctuary. Learn more and register at purinafarms.com

"This is Halloween!"

Join the St. Louis Symphony Orchestra for a spine-tingling experience as we revisit one of Tim Burton’s most adored films, The Nightmare Before Christmas. Feel the thrill as the film unfolds on the big screen with dialogue, singing, and effects accompanied by Danny Elfman’s hauntingly charming score, brought to life by your St. Louis Symphony Orchestra. Bring your families, don your frightful costumes, and immerse yourselves in the macabre beauty of Halloween. Remember, every day is Halloween in our world! Catch The Nightmare Before Christmas in Concert October 6 & 8. Friday at 7 p.m. and Sunday at 2 p.m. at the Stifel Theatre. Jason Seber, Conductor. GET TICKETS

_{Presentation licensed by Disney Concerts. ©Disney.

All rights reserved. MPAA Rating: PG}

Kids grow fast—way faster than your budget. Keeping up with your kid’s needs can be overwhelming & expensive. You want to give your family what they need, and say "Yes" to the things they want. But, how?! Just Between Friends O’Fallon/Belleville can help! JBF O'Fallon/Belleville is a twice a year, pop-up kids & maternity consignment sale where local families can shop and save hundreds of dollars on everything they need to raise confident, stylish, good-looking kids! Shop our Fall & Winter Sale on October 5-8 at our NEW location: the Gateway Convention Center in Collinsville. So you can stop running around to retail stores & garage sales and instead, get everything you need for the next 6 months—all in one clean, safe, organized space! And after the sale, unsold items can be donated to our charity partners serving the community. JBF O'Fallon/Belleville helping families say "Yes!" Learn more and get early-shopping tickets!

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