Where to Take Kids On Inauguration Day

Every presidential inauguration is a nugget of history, a marker in the political story of America. As parents, we want to share these events with our children. But hours outside in the cold might be hard on your kids. 

Here are places to entertain the little ones on the big day. 

Ranger Badges: The National Park Service will award special Junior Park Ranger badges over the inauguration weekend. Parents can download the special activity book online or children can receive one from a park ranger at one of six ranger stations. There will also be special Junior Ranger events this weekend at the Margin Luther King Jr. Memorial.

Stories and Crafts: The Smithsonian will host a kids' crafts and storytime from 2-5 p.m. Monday at the Portrait Gallery Education Center, 1st Floor, Room E151. For ages 5 and older, with an adult, children can "drop in to listen to stories about America's presidents and create a special piece of art."

Mount Vernon Fun: The first president's home is getting in the inaugural spirit. Children can participate in the “George Washington Presidential Scavenger Hunt” through Tuesday. They'll get to search Washington’s Estate for clues to a special prize. The popular historic site will also have a special gift for the 44th visitor each day from Friday through Tuesday.

Letter to the President The Washington Post's KidsPost program is hosting an opportunity for children to write a letter to President Obama to give him their suggestions for his second term. The letters will be delivered to the White House. Stop by the Washington Post building, 1150 15th Street NW, to participate.