Seattle's Child

Your guide to a kid-friendly city

Give gifts of fun local experiences

These gifts put an unique spin on traditional gifting

Meditation: A teen connected to life and not an electronic device? It’s still possible, thanks to a four-week Teen Mindfulness Meditation class offered in the spring and fall by the Seattle Insight Meditation Society. The Society also offers a weekly drop-in group for teens to learn skills such as how to respond to challenging situations. seattleinsight.org

Flight school: The sky isn’t the limit from inside the cockpit of a helicopter. Helicopters Northwest in Seattle offers a half-hour demo flight for $100. An experienced pilot explains how the bird works, then it’s time to fly. Teens can handle the controls during the flight. For ages 15 and up. helicoptersnw.com

Farm classes: Your little one might never stop pestering you for a pony — or some chickens — after visiting Kelsey Creek Farm in Bellevue. Kids as young as 2 can participate in animal care, barn chores, pony rides, baking and gardening. Classes run from September through March. Prices vary. farmerjayne.com

Sewing: Teach a kid to sew and you might never have to fix another pant hem. Kids ages 8 and older can take afterschool sewing classes at the West Seattle Fabric Company. Projects vary, but include stuffed toys, holiday projects and American Girl doll clothes. The cost is $30 and includes supplies. westseattlefabriccompany.com

Rock-star lessons: Your little Jimi Hendrix can find his or her groove at the School of Rock’s Little Wing program. Kids ages 2 to 5 can sing and play instruments. The classes are filled with music and movement, and exposure to skills such as song structure. An eight-week series costs $160. Locations in Seattle and Bellevue. littlewing.com

About the Author

Debra Smith