As a parent, it’s hard to compete with the action and glamour of television and video games. Real life sometimes seems, well, a little boring to kids. Maybe it’s time to get back to the simpler things in life, like being outside and using our imaginations. The Missouri Botanical Garden has a few upcoming activities that may help:

► Celebrate girl power by bringing your favorite little lady to the All-Girls Garden Party.Six-to-10-year old girls and their grownups will create floral centerpieces and party wear, prepare seasonal snacks and enjoy an eco-friendly celebration at the Kemper Center’s Summer Plant House. This event is taking place on Saturday, Sept. 11,

from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. All participants must be accompanied by an adult. The cost is $36 per child, which includes one adult admission. Advance registration is required, and registration ends Sept. 6 at midnight.

► Sleep under the stars among beautiful foliage at the Garden’s Fall Family Sleepover. Your family can take a nighttime hike, create a craft, tell stories or play in the Doris I. Schnuck Children’s Garden. The sleepover includes dinner, a late-night snack and light continental breakfast. It begins Saturday, Oct. 9, at 5:30 p.m. and ends Sunday, Oct. 10, at 8:30 a.m. This event is suitable for children ages 6 to 12. The cost is $50 per person and $40 for Garden members. At least one adult needs to attend for every two children. Advance reservations are required. This event will fill up quickly. Registration ends Sept. 27 at midnight. No tents, please.

To find our more information about either of these events, or to register, please visit www.mobot.org/classes or call 314-577-5140.