ML Interest Tag: moms-night-out

Favorite Hotspots for Moms Night (or Day) Out

by Wendy Altschuler

Kids are back in school, so reward yourself for a summer well done by scheduling much-needed adulting time with you favorite crew. Looking for a place to host your next MNO (Mom’s Night Out) or book club meeting? Read on for our roundup of perfect spots for a bit of girl time!

Morton’s Steakhouse
You hang with a meat and potatoes kind of crowd? If you’re looking for an unobtrusive locale that provides an environment that enables great tête-à-tête interaction, consider Morton’s Steakhouse — the king of the steak and seafood market. There are several locations to choose from, making your ladies get-together a cinch: two locations in Chicago, Naperville, Rosemont, Schaumburg and Northbrook. Bonus: Your server will take a professional photograph of your group for you to take home.

Morton’s Steakhouse
Various locations throughout Chicagoland
Online: mortons.com

Kings Bowl Lincoln Park
photo: NEWCITY Kings Bowl

Lincoln Park’s NEWCITY has loads of entertainment and dining options, including two really great restaurants that offer a fun atmosphere for an ideal MNO: Earls Kitchen + Bar and Kings Lincoln Park.

Earls Kitchen + Bar
Open since fall of 2015, their menu focuses on fresh, in-season ingredients and innovative worldwide inspired meals. Earls has a large outdoor three-season patio with fire pits and cushioned couches, where you’ll enjoy live music and handcrafted drinks.

Kings Bowl Lincoln Park
is a giant retro-inspired space that includes swanky bowling, American dining and cocktails. The soy-glazed salmon is delicious and for something to talk about, order the “Savage”, which features citrus vodka, St. Germaine strawberry puree, fresh lemon juice topped with Sprite and a glass rimmed with Pop Rocks. Note: during the day, kids are welcome and invited to hang, play and dine.

NEWCITY Lincoln Park
1457 N. Halsted St.
Lincoln Park
Online: experiencenewcity.com

Arami Chicago
photo: Arami

Arami
This light-drenched restaurant in West Town is the place to go for authentic Japanese options with several unique twists on classic American fare. Arami recently launched a Sunday brunch, which may be ideal for your mom’s group outing. Be sure to check their website for fun happenings like Noodle Night, Sushi Class or Japanese Whiskey Tasting, all of which would make for a fun night out with your mom pals.

Arami
1829 W. Chicago Ave.
West Town
Online: aramichicago.com

The Gwen Chicago
Photo: Upstairs at the Gwen

Upstairs at The Gwen
Located at The Gwen Hotel Chicago, a Luxury Collection Hotel, is a lovely and private rooftop terrace with an Art Deco design, which makes for a perfect meeting spot for interesting and delicious cocktails and sharable plates. You’ll love the Prosecco Popsicles and personal bar carts!

Upstairs at The Gwen
521 N. Rush St.
Near North Side

The Terrace at Trump
Another great rooftop terrace, with one of the very best views of Chicago, is The Terrace at Trump. When you gaze upon the Wrigley Building’s clock tower, you’ll think you’re staring at a green screen—it’s that magical. And, of course, the menu options are incredible—sharable or individual. Here you can also order a Chilled Shellfish Tower, Flatbreads or a Terrace Picnic, which includes a sharable picnic basket for up to four people.

The Terrace at Trump
401 N. Wabash Ave.
Near North Side
Online: trumphotelcollection.com

Where’s your favorite spot to connect with your mom squad? Chat with us about it in the Comments!

—Wendy Altschuler

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It Takes a Village: Parenting Clubs to Join Now

by Marianne Walters

Are you a first time mom looking for a group of likeminded new moms? Or, maybe you’re a seasoned dad seeking a tribe that loves to trek the area’s outdoor trails. No matter what stage of parenthood you’re in, the following metro Portland clubs, support groups, and casual meet-ups offer moms and dads a place to come together and share in the joys of parenthood. Check out our list to find your village.

photo: Hike It Baby

Hike It Baby
Outdoor lovers all over Portland are strapping their babies and toddlers into carriers and hitting the trails. Started by a Portland mom who wanted to get out into nature with her baby but didn’t want to do it alone, her small community grew by word of mouth and has become widely known as one of the most active hiking groups in the area! Hikes are planned at easy enough distances and difficulty levels that anyone can participate, so beginners and experienced hikers alike are welcome (and that includes moms, dads, grandparents, friends, and dogs). Each hike is categorized according to the goal, so you’ll know whether older sibs will be leading the way, strollers are appropriate, or all babes will need to be in carriers. The hikes are free but a waiver must be signed online before you show up, so browse the website to see how it works before heading out.

Online: hikeitbaby.com

photo: USDA via Flickr cc

Providence Portland Medical Center New Mom’s Group
Find comfort in meeting with other new moms in this supportive, ongoing group that helps women adapt to the role of motherhood. Led by an experienced facilitator, new moms have been known to find lasting friendships through regular attendance at this group. Babies up to 6 months are welcome, and there is a one- time fee of $60 or $45, depending on whether or not you’re a Providence Health Plan member (see website for details). The meetings are located at Providence Portland in the Body Works Fitness Center at the east end of Halsey St. parking garage. Check the schedule and join at any time! (Looking for something similar on the Westside? Providence St. Vincent has the same group. Details can be found here.)

Online: oregon.providence.org/news-and-events

photo: barsen via Flickr cc

MOMS Clubs® of Portland
This nationwide non-profit organization (its acronym stands for Moms Offering Moms Support) has found its home in several Portland-area neighborhoods. Originally designed to support stay-at-home moms, the clubs are inclusive of those who work outside the home, work part-time, or run their own home businesses. They fill their monthly calendars with playgroups hosted at home, outings to local play areas, library story times, coffee talks, monthly meet-and-greets for new members, stroller walks, and trips to the zoo. Meal deliveries are organized for members welcoming new arrivals, and monthly Moms’ Night Out evenings are planned for some much-needed adult time. Some of the local groups include Beaverton, West Hills, Hillsboro, Tigard-Tualatin, West Linn, and Milwaukie, but check the website for the complete list of Oregon clubs to find the one nearest to you.

Online: momsclub.org

Jewish Federation of Greater Portland
Any family choosing to raise their children Jewish (of any configuration, including affiliated, non-affiliated, interfaith, or non-traditional) will find a wealth of resources through the Jewish Federation. A great option for families with children ages 6 months to 6 years is the PJ Library, which sends your child a free Jewish children’s book in the mail every month. The goal is to keep the Jewish values present in the household through conversations that are prompted by reading the books together. In addition to the fun monthly mail, families are encouraged to join a number of available communities via Facebook groups and through scheduled events.

Online: jewishportland.org

photo: Hilary Riedemann 

Alma Education and Movement Space
As a branch of Alma Midwifery, this space is used for groups of all kinds to support parents through the transition that a new baby brings to the family. A New Parent Group is held every Thursday from 10 a.m.- noon (although the timing is flexible to meet the needs of parents just beginning to make it out of the house with a baby). Rather than a facilitated group, this space is open for parents to bring their babies and chat over a cup of tea. Alma also hosts a breastfeeding support group and Cesarean birth support group in the same space. These groups are held at 433 SE 13th Ave. and most are either free or ask for a $5 donation (check the calendar for details).

Online: almamidwifery.com/education

Sacred Mothering Circle
Mamas in search of their tribe will be right at home with this group. It’s run by a professional duo who co-facilitate a series of 8 gatherings every other Saturday. There is a $40 fee for the 8-week session, and the next one begins May 16th. During these sessions, new mothers will have the opportunity to process the joys and hardships of motherhood in an authentic and connected way.

Online: facebook.com/sacredmotheringcircle

photo: Lisa H. via Yelp

PDX Dads Group
A nationwide organization called City Dads Group is redefining what it means to be a father in the 21st century. The Portland chapter, organized through meetup.com and also connected through Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, is filled with 100 dads who are actively involved in creating fun family experiences and enjoy spending time with other dads and their kids. Meetups take place at parks and playgrounds, museums and homes, and include parenting classes, dads’ nights out, and kid-friendly happy hours. Dads of all walks of life are welcome, including those who work outside the home, inside the home, stay-at-home dads, and everything in between.

Online: meetup.com

Are you a member of a great group for new parents? Please tell us about it in the Comments below!

—Marianne Walters

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Renton Rocks: 12 Reasons to Visit the Home of the Hawks

by Helen Walker Green

It’s the 11th largest city in Washington, the Seattle Seahawks train here, Boeing builds planes here, and you can eat as many Swedish meatballs as you like! But there’s so much more to this city by the lake. Read on for a list of Renton’s best kept secrets.

photo: Kristina Moy

1. Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park
It’s beautiful any time of year but Gene Coulon Park especially shines in those lazy days of spring and summer. Right on Lake Washington, it boasts a swimming beach (with lifeguards on duty), a terrific playground, picnic shelters, tennis courts, horseshoe pits, volleyball, and a boat launch. There’s a fishing pier for your budding angler, walking trails by the lake, and a water walk. When your crew is ready for lunch or dinner, try some tasty fish ‘n chips from Ivar’s and a shake from Kidd Valley, located right there in the park.

Good to Know: There’s always something going on at Gene Coulon Park – Ivar’s Clam Lights over the holiday season, Kids’ Fishing Derbies, annual 4th of July festivities, Moonlight Movies and the always popular Kidd Valley Summer Concert Series.

Gene Coulon Memorial Beach Park
1201 Lake Washington Blvd. N.
Renton, Wa 98056
Online: rentonwa.gov/living/default.aspx?id=74

photo: Kirazuri C. via Yelp

2. Henry Moses Aquatic Center
Two super-speedy water slides, a huge wave pool, lazy river (watch out for the bucket of water!), spray play areas, and lap pool make Henry Moses a sure bet for summer! When you’re all splashed out, grab a “bite” at the Shark Bites Café, before hitting the slides again.

Good to Know:  You can catch a movie while floating in the pool when Moonlight Movies visits Henry Moses! Spend the afternoon enjoying the water park, then settle down for some pre-movie family entertainment. Movies start at dusk and are all rated PG. Admission is free with your water park admission. If you’d rather stay warm and cosy out of the water, there are loungers available or you can bring your own low-back chairs and blankets.

Henry Moses Aquatic Center
1719 S.E. Maple Valley Highway
Renton, Wa 98057
425-430-6780
Online: rentonwa.gov/living/default.aspx?id=190

Open: June 20–September 2015
Cost: $4-$14 (under 1 free)

photo: City of Renton

3. Renton River Days
This summer, get quacking to Renton River Days! This annual festival is three days of fun for the whole family, including the “Duck Hunt” – a scavenger hunt for rubber duckies. Soak up the summer sun (don’t forget the sunblock) while enjoying the hometown parade, arts and crafts, an amazing KidZone (inflatables, climbing wall, putt-putt golf, petting zoo and more). Plus, The Nibble of Renton with lots of tasty eats from local restaurants. Psst… Kids can meet real heroes from the Renton Police and Fire Department.

Renton River Days
Liberty Park
1101 Bronson Way N.
Renton, Wa 98057
Online: rentonriverdays.org

Dates: July 24-26, 2015

photo: Renton River Days Facebook page

4. $3.50 Movies
Perfect for mini movie buffs and thrifty parents – Regal East Valley Stadium shows a huge assortment of movies for just $3.50 per ticket (latest blockbusters included) and $1 movies all summer long. We give it two thumbs up! The movies here start ON TIME – very important to remember if you’re buying popcorn and thinking you’ll only miss the trailers.

Regal East Valley Stadium
3751 E. Valley Rd.,
Renton Wa 98057
844-462-7342
Online: regmovies.com

photo: Alison M. Seward

5. Creative Mom Toys
A finalist in Red Tricycle’s Totally Awesome Awards, Creative Mom Toys takes the guesswork out of choosing toys for your kiddos. Owned by local mom Cheri Saburi, this store is a wonderland for wee ones. Focusing on educational and developmental toys, Creative Mom’s mission is to: “Bring different, fun, and exciting new toys to kids and their grown ups.” Psst! Creative Mom Toys has free craft classes and activity days. Check their website for more info.

Creative Mom Toys
The Landing in Renton
840 N. 10th Pl. Ste. A.
Renton, Wa 98057
206-388-3940
Online: creativemomtoys.com

photo: Taylor Marie Photography

6. Glazed Art
From mugs and plates to piggy banks and mosaics – Glazed Art is messy play day for everyone! To make your one-of-a-kind pottery, choose a ceramic piece and paint it, then leave it for glazing and firing and pick it up seven days later. Or create colorful mosaic artwork you can take home the same day.

Good to Know: You can reserve the party room for birthdays or Moms’ Night Out events or attend one of their weekday happy hour specials, where you get a discount on your work of art!

Glazed Art
The Landing in Renton
827 N. 10th Place Ste. D.
Renton, Wa 98057
425-264-5718
Online: glazedart.com

photo: Taylor Marie Photography

7. Common Ground Cupcakes
For a scrumptious treat that’s sure to leave a frosting mustache – make your way to Common Ground Cupcakes in old downtown Renton. You’ll be spoiled for choice with different flavors to try everyday, including, Double Dutch, Orange Creamsicle, Almond Joy, Sweet Sixteen and the Tiffany (inspired by Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany’s). Beverage-wise, there’s bubble tea, fruit smoothies, Mexican chocolate, espresso and more. At Common Ground Cupcakes, the motto is: “Live well, laugh often, love much…eat a cupcake!”

Common Ground Cupcakes
900 S. 3rd St.
Renton, Wa 98057
425-235-1717
Online: facebook.com/commongroundcupcakes

photo: Helen Walker Green

8. 8 Bit Arcade
If your kids have seen Wreck it Ralph, and they’re wondering who Q*bert is – 8 Bit Arcade is the place to educate them. The 8 Bit has 80’s arcade games at 80’s prices! Your family won’t want to go back to the future after they’ve been playing Galaga, Ms. Pac-Man, Pole Position and the original Super Mario. There’s also a whole room full of pinball machines to keep pinball wizards happy too! The 8 Bit has pizzas, shakes, ice cream, and beer on tap. Save some quarters to play table top Q*bert and Donkey Kong while you eat.

Good to Know: Most of the games are suitable for all ages but there are some grown up games too, be sure to check the rating on the machine. The 8 Bit goes 21 and over at night.

8 Bit Arcade
916 S. 3rd St.
Renton, Wa 98057
425-291-7693
Online: facebook.com/pages/8-bit-Arcade-Bar/434005613350903

photo: Helen Walker Green

9. IKEA
OK, we know you’ve been here, but no Renton roundup would be complete without it. Check the kids in at the Småland Play Area (ball pit, climbing, movies) while you shop for interestingly-named furniture to assemble at home (with a little luck there won’t be a piece left over). Then, it’s time to “release the kids” and head to the restaurant for Swedish meatballs and more. Psst: IKEA Family members get free coffee and tea at the restaurant and 30 mins extra Småland time. And all kids 12 and under eat free on Tuesdays from 11 a.m.–8:30 p.m.

IKEA
601 S.W. 41st St.,
Renton, Wa 98057
Online: ikea.com

photo: IKEA

10. StoryBook Theater
Fairytales come to life in Renton when StoryBook Theater is in town. Kids can enjoy musical performances written especially for children 3-10. There’s audience participation in every performance, which really gives young theatregoers a chance to be part of the show! Each story also includes a positive life lesson for children. And StoryBook Theater promises their stories are never scary and always have a happy ending… ahhh. Psst! You can also catch StoryBook Theater performances at other venues around the city.

StoryBook Theater
Renton Carco Theatre
1717 S.E. Maple Valley Highway,
Renton, Wa 98057
Online: storybooktheater.org

photo: StoryBook Theater

11. Cedar River Trail
For an outdoorsy family adventure – cycle, scoot or walk your way along this historic railroad route. Everyone can enjoy the Cedar River Trail – from the tricycle set to mountain bikers. The 4.5 mile stretch that winds through Renton is just right for little hikers and bikers. The trail begins at Cedar River Trail Park – look out for Blue Herons and Bald Eagles; seaplanes too! You may have to stop to let a brand new Boeing plane pass (still wrapped in green plastic). The first part of the trail crosses downtown Renton and may be a bit busy for tiny tots. Try picking up the trail at Cedar River Park instead and heading south along the riverbank. There are plenty of spots to rest your legs and have a picnic along the way. This is a trail you can enjoy a bit at a time, at your own pace.

Good to Know: There is parking at both trailheads and many midway points.

Cedar River Trail Park – Trailhead
600 Nishiwaki Ln.
Renton, Wa 98057
Online: rentonwa.gov/living/default.aspx?id=67

Cedar River Park (best starting point for tots)
1717 S.E. Maple Valley Highway
Renton, Wa 98057
Online: rentonwa.gov/living/default.aspx?id=72

photo: Taylor Marie Photography

12. Seahawks 12K Run at The Landing
Spend the day with Blitz, Blue Thunder, the Sea Gals and Seahawks players at this annual extravaganza. The Seahawks 12K Run takes place every April and has some really fun events for lil’ twelfies, including the 5K Run/Walk and Play 60 Kids Run (.5 mile). Little ones in strollers and pooches can take part too. And it’s all for a good cause – each year the Seahawks collect donations for a local nonprofit organization. All participants get a t-shirt, and a finisher’s ribbon! Psst! If you’ve always wanted to check out the VMAC, 12K participants run around the Seahawks training facilities.

Good to Know: Parents can participate in the Kids Run with their little 12’s if they are too young to run by themselves.

Seahawks 12K Run at The Landing
840 N. 10th Pl.,
Renton, Wa 98057
Online: seahawks12krun.com

photo: Seahawks 12K Run at the Landing Facebook page

12.1 Seahawks Training Camp
Watch the Seattle Seahawks training at the Virginia Mason Athletic Center – and maybe even get an autograph and snap a photo of your favorite player. You need to register online first as space is limited (you can have up to six people in your group). On the day, you and your mini Hawks will check-in at The Landing and catch a shuttle bus to the VMAC. There’s plenty of green and blue fun once you’re there – as well as watching practices and possibly meeting players, plus giant inflatables for little 12s to get their bounce on and youth football clinics for kids 7-14. The Metropolitan Grill is on site each day with a delicious selection of eats fresh off the grill, plus kettle corn, shaved ice and Starbucks iced coffee.

Good to Know: Spring Training Camp costs $7 per person; 2 and under free; kids 15 and under must be accompanied by an adult. Fans with disabilities do not need to take the shuttle and may park at the VMAC.

Seahawks Training Camp
July and August 2015
Online: seahawks.com/schedule/training-camp

photo: Seattle Seahawks Training Camp website

Do you have a favorite Renton hot spot? Tell us about it in a comment below (unless you want to keep it secret).

— Helen Walker Green

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Say Bonjour to Lady Yum: Kirkland’s Newest Macaron Parlor

by Danielle Fernandez

Whether you call it a macaron or a macaroon, you don’t have to fly all the way to Paris to indulge in this latest French desert trend. Located in Kirkland, Lady Yum serves up a colorful assortment of macarons in crowd-pleasing flavors like chocolate, strawberry and mint chocolate chip along with more unusual pairings like mango-habanero and maple-bacon. But the macarons are not the only showstoppers on the menu. Read on for the sweet details.

photo: Danielle Fernandez

The Story Behind the Business
Starting off as a custom dessert business out of her home kitchen, owner Megan Gordon made her dream come true. Thanks to hard work, a knack for perfecting a difficult cookie, and a clever Kickstarter campaign, Megan was able to expand her business to a new store front in the heart of downtown Kirkland, where her perfect macarons are now available to the masses.

photo: Danielle Fernandez

Take ‘Em or Leave ‘Em
Perfect for an afternoon date with your l’enfant, Lady Yum serves up several kid-friendly macaron flavors; chocolate, s’mores, PB&J, strawberry and mint chocolate chip are just a few of the more popular choices amongst the younger crowd. Take the fun a bit further in your afternoon adventure and treat the minis to a “Sophia” – sparkling cider or water served up in a tiny wine glass. What could be more fun than eating fancy cookies and drinking from a special glass? Better yet, Lady Yum is just begging for you to take your friends here for an opulent Moms Night Out. Catch up with friends over a generous pour of champagne and these perfectly airy macarons (make sure to try the salted caramel and pear ginger cardamom) amongst the historic brick and warm glow of beautiful chandeliers. Bring the kids home a box of macarons and everyone is a winner!

photo: Danielle Fernandez

Wake Up Your Tastebuds
While macarons are the star of the show, Lady Yum also serves up one of the hottest new beverage crazes, Shrubs. This refreshing cocktail of flavored sipping vinegars made by local company Sweet Carolines and champagne (or sparkling water) is the perfect  pairing with sweet macarons. Pick from flavors such as Nectarine White Balsamic Vanilla, Fig and Honey or Rhubarb Ginger Peppercorn. Sounds weird, but it’s an absolutely perfect combination of sweet and tangy topped off with bubbles!

photo: Danielle Fernandez

Keepin’ It Local
Gordon is all about supporting her fellow local entrepreneurs and the small business community that surrounds her. All products in her store (with the exception of some wines) are sourced from either Washington or Oregon. Gordon even utilizes her featured local products in many of her macaron flavors. Psst… Look for local artisan treats such as jams, caramels, and toffee lining the store’s shelves.

Beyond Macaroons
While Lady Yum is working on creating new savory macaron flavors (think Smoked Salmon & Sesame, Red Pepper & Goat Cheese and Fig & Bleu Cheese) there are other options available on the menu if you want some nourishment to go with your sweet and bubbly. Try a mini quiche from WaWa Cakes, or a salad from Molly’s to complete your afternoon voyage to Paris er Kirkland. You will also find more than just macarons to satisfy your sweet tooth; holiday-themed treats of cake pops and cookies as well as chocolate covered marshmallows are often available.

photo: Lady Yum Instagram Page

Treats All Week
Need a mid-week pick-me-up? Tuesdays are all you can drink champagne and shrubs for $15. This gives you plenty of opportunity to try all of those unique flavor combinations. Or come in for a free macaron on Thursdays when you purchase a glass of wine or champagne. Check out Lady Yum’s Facebook page for more reasons to indulge.

Spread the Yum
Don’t have time to stay? Lady Yum offers many options of beautifully packaged macaron boxes to take home, or wine “to go.” Be the biggest hit at your next tailgate with the 12th Man vanilla bean macaron or make your child’s party the talk of the neighborhood by having Lady Yum create a custom dessert table. Check out Lady Yum’s website for all the delish details.

Lady Yum
111 Lake St.
Kirkland, Wa 98033
425-285-9628
Online: ladyyum.com or on Facebook

Hours: Tues.-Sat., 11 a.m.-10 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-8 p.m.; Closed Mon.

Already been to Lady Yum? What’s your favorite item on the menu? Have an idea for a fabulous macaron flavor? Indulge us with a comment below.

—Danielle Fernandez

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Back by Popular Demand: 14 More Moms (and Dads) Groups You Should Know

by Angela Alanis

We already told you about the 28 Moms Groups You Should Know in Seattle and the Eastside. But what if you live north or south of Seattle and your minis simply don’t have the patience for the drive to the city? Never fear, parents! We’ve rounded up 14 awesome moms (and dads) groups outside the city, just waiting for you and your crew to join.

North Sound  

Busy Bees Playgroup for Moms & Tots
If you are looking for a group where you and your tots can have fun and make lasting friendships, Busy Bees is for you. This group of fun moms like to stay busy by organizing a variety of kid-centered activities. Busy Bees is located primarily in Marysville, but have events in nearby cities as well. Playdates include trips to parks, zoos and festivals as well as in-home crafts. Busy Bees also hosts mom’s nights and family gatherings.

GLBT Families & Friends of Greater Puget Sound
Are you looking for other GLBT families to socialize with in your ‘hood? GLBT Families & Friends are located in the Everett/Lake Stevens area, but will travel and love finding cool new places to meet with kids in tow. All LGBT families and their friends are welcome to join this group.

MOMS Club of Marysville
A support group designed for the at-home mom of today, MOMS Club® is an international non-profit organization. The MOMS Club of Marsville is full of diverse women and kids of all ages and backgrounds. They plan a number of activities including monthly meetings with special guest speakers, playgroups, day outings, special interest activities, seasonal parties, charitable events, and a monthly Mom’s Night Out.

Mothers of South Snohomish
If you live in the south Snohomish area, you gotta check out Mothers of South Snohomish (MOSS). This awesome group supports mothers and their kids through friendship, networking, and fun activities. New members are welcomed during the monthly meetings, which often feature informative speakers. This group is known for planning playgroups, weekly activities for both moms and tots, a monthly Moms Night Out, and much more.

photo credit: TK Photography

North Sound Explore and Play Group
This group is for moms in the North Sound looking for friends and fun with and without their littles in tow! Made up of a diverse group of women, members include stay-at-home moms, working moms, work-from-home moms, expecting moms, aunts, and nannies. All ages of kids are welcome, but the majority of the group have tots under 5. Bonus: Activities are scheduled almost daily!

Snohomish County Mothers of Multiples (SNOMOMS)
Raising multiples is a rewarding and challenging experience and SNOMOMS offers a wide variety of educational, social, emotional and practical support for moms during all stages of their “multiples” experience. SNOMOMS welcomes expectant, new, and seasoned moms who live in or around Snohomish County and North King County.

Snohomish New Moms Group
This free, drop-in group aims to be educational and support-based for new moms and dads. Snohomish New Moms Group is held on the second Friday of each month at the Snohomish Public Library common room from 11 a.m.-1 p.m. New, relevant topics are presented by professional members of the community and meetings are led by a trained facilitator. All kids and babes are welcome to attend the meetings.

The Real Moms of Snohomish County
The Real Moms of Snohomish County are just that: real moms! They don’t pretend to be perfect moms, and honestly they aren’t even trying to be. They know that all moms have good days and bad days and they all have “real” kids. And through it all, they have fun together. In addition to park meet-ups, playdates and exercise, this fun group of mommies love to go out with the girls, craft, read, and learn and grow together.

South Sound 

410 Moms & Tots
This amazing group of moms with preschool and elementary aged children live within Auburn, Buckley, Bonney Lake, Enumclaw, Lake Tapps, Orting, Puyallup, South Prairie, and Sumner. The group is made up of very active moms who regularly get together with their tots (usually birth to age 5) for themed playdates, library storytimes, stroller adventures and scrapbooking as well as Mom’s Night Out, wine tasting, birthday celebrations or more.

Maple Valley – Covington Area Moms
This South Sound group is made up of SAHM and working moms (with kids ages 0-5) who are relaxed, positive and focus on their minis having fun, making friends, exercising, growing and learning. The group believes it takes a village to raise a child and are always looking to add more moms and caregivers to the group.

MOMS Club of Renton
Are you looking for a connection with your community and other at-home moms? MOMS Club is proud of your choice to stay home and will provide a variety of activities for you and your tot during the day. If you need a support group that understands your special needs as a mom, this is the one for you!

photo credit: Vered Ronen

Puget Sound Housedads United
If you are a dad and looking for a group for networking and support amongst all the stay-at-home dads of the greater Puget Sound area, Puget Sound Housedads United is for you. This group knows it’s the 21st century and for a lot of families, a stay-at-home Dad just makes the most sense. The group schedules regular playdates and group outings at parks as well as fun activities to keep dads and tots busy during the day.

Tacoma Holistic Moms
This fun chapter is made up of a diverse group of holistic moms from Pierce County. The group welcomes all area moms (and dads) with an interest in holistic health and green living. The group’s goal is to develop a thriving local community of holistic parents with a wide range of interests. Grandparents, partners and other caregivers are welcome to join the group.

Tacoma Parents of Multiples
Tacoma Parents of Multiples (TPOM) is a non-profit organization open to all parents or guardians of multiple birth kiddos. The club helps support parents of multiples (twins, triplets, and even quadruplets) by sharing ideas and information related to raising multiples in Tacoma, Pierce and Thurston Counties, and the surrounding areas.

Do you have a favorite moms (or dads) group in the North or South Sound? Share it with us in a comment below. 

— Angela Alanis

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27 Moms Groups Every Seattle Mom (and Dad) Should Know

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28 Mom Groups Every Seattle Mom (and Dad) Should Know

by Angela Alanis

We all know how important it is for our kids to socialize with other little ones. But it’s just as important for us moms (and dads) to have play dates too. Mothers’ Clubs, local parenting organizations and moms groups are a great way to connect with other families in your area and establish a supportive community of like-minded folks. Check out our list below to find a group in your ‘hood. With everything from mothers of multiples to fitness groups to attachment parenting, there’s a group sure to fit your family.

Seattle

Ballard Parents
Ballard is known for its “small town” feeling and Ballard Parents is a great resource for parents who want to bring that small town one step closer. Working, stay-at-home, single? Parents in every circumstance will find resources in this group. Topics include nanny sharing, babysitting, school recommendations, parenting classes and child development.

Capital Hill Parenting
This awesome group supports families living in the Capitol Hill neighborhood of Seattle. Members are welcome to use the group to exchange news and information about kid-focused events and services, connect for play dates, swap baby gear, reach out for help and support on various parenting issues, and much more.

Madrona Moms
Madrona Moms is an informal, fun-loving group of Seattle mamas. The group was created back in 2000 by a couple of moms who met at Madrona playfield with their little ones in tow. Their aim was to “make Madrona feel like a small town” and that’s exactly what they’re still doing today.

Green Lake Moms
Green Lake Moms is a fave for many Seattle-area parents and was the winner of our 2013 Totally Awesome Awards for most awesome group for moms and dads. The group was founded as a community resource in Seattle to provide a place for local moms to share information and support one another. The group has became so popular and fulfilled local moms’ needs so well that today it has more than 2400 members. From Green Lake Mom Daily Deals to organized meet-ups and events, Green Lake Moms is a fantastic opportunity for Seattle moms to connect, bond, and grow.

North East Seattle Moms
North East Seattle Moms is open to families who live in the Laurelhurst, Bryant, View Ridge, Wedgwood, Windermere, Hawthorne Hills, Ravenna, Meadowbrook, Sand Point and Matthews Beach neighborhoods and want to connect with other parents in the neighborhood. Parents in this group are encouraged to ask and share resources with one another as well as wisdom and information on a variety of topics, neighborhood specific information and issues.

Parents Families and Friends of Lesbians and Gays – Seattle
Keeping families together is the mission of this Seattle parenting group. PFLAG promotes the health and well-being of gay, lesbian, bisexual, and transgender persons, their families and friends through support, education and advocacy.

Queen Anne Moms and Dads
Moms and dads living on Queen Anne are invited to join this group to get to know one another as neighbors and support each other as parents. Group members coordinate playgroups, announce neighborhood activities, provide resources regarding childcare, schools, and classes, share information about suspicious or criminal activity in the neighborhood, provide tips for things to do or services to try, and discuss things of interest and of use to families living on Queen Anne.

Seattle Attachment Parenting (API)
API Seattle is a support group affiliated with Attachment Parenting International that provides encouragement, advice, education, and friendship for attachment-focused families. API encourages moms and dads to develop secure, peaceful, and enduring relationships with others through trust, empathy, and affection. The group provides the support parents need through monthly meetings, playgroups, potlucks, book club meetings, seminars, a lending library, and an online discussion group.

Seattle Babywearing Network (SABN)
With the goal of encouraging more parents and caregivers to carry their babies, the purpose of this group is to promote, educate and share information about babywearing and its benefits. The group meets on the first Wednesday of the month in Seattle and on the Eastside to share babywearing experiences, troubleshoot problems and assist with carrier usage.

Seattle Fremont Moms
Fremont moms (a.k.a Fremomsters) live in The Center of the Universe and share information related to child-rearing including everything from sharing a nanny to babysitting to school recommendations. The group acts as a support group for anyone seeking help with raising their children, maintaining their home, and balancing work and home and encourages its members to set up weekly and monthly playdates.

Program for Early Parent Support (PEPS) 
PEPS is known for helping parents connect and grow as they begin their journey into parenthood. PEPS parent support programs educate, inform and create community among parents and have become a vital resource for new mothers and fathers. PEPS serves thousands of families annually all over the Seattle area including the Eastside.

Seattleista Moms
This Seattle group is for expecting moms, new moms, and even moms with school-aged kiddos. It’s a great place to meet moms living in the city and stay fit and healthy while having fun. The group holds special events such as kids clothing swap parties and prenatal and mom and me yoga classes and is known for planning walks around the lake, play dates at the gym and participating in language classes, cooking classes, first aid classes, ladies lunches, spa days, and even moms night out.

Seattle Single Parents
With over 1300 members, this group is designed for single parents living in Seattle and the surrounding areas. The group has an awesome mix of both young and experienced parents and is designed for moms and dads who want to get active as well as find other single parents to connect and network with; to share ideas and support with; and to plan group events with. If you’re thinking the possibilities are endless in this group… you’re right!

WSMOT – Super Moms of West Seattle
WSMOT is a fun group of moms who like to get out and enjoy each other’s company. If you live in West Seattle or the White Center neighborhood and have a kiddo who is entering kindergarten through 3rd grade, you’ll definitely want to check this group out! Psst! Younger siblings are always welcome.

 

Eastside

Eastside Aspergers Kids Social Group
If you have a kiddo age 12 and under with Aspergers Syndrome, High Functioning Autism, PDD-NOS or similar diagnoses, this group is designed for you. The motto for this Eastside group is “Let’s get together and help the children make friends” and that’s exactly what the parents and caregivers in this group are doing. Low-key meetups at parks, playgrounds and other fun places are planned monthly.

Eastside Cool Mommies
This group of active and young (or young at heart) cool mamas is designed for moms who are ready to get out of the house and meet like-minded ladies. The group is designed for both stay-at-home and working moms who have kids of all ages—there is no limit in this group! Eastside Cool Mommies encourages its members to get their kiddos out of the house and make new friends as well as get some advice, give some advice and have fun!

Eastside Mothers Club
The Eastside Mothers Club knows that being a mom can be joyous, stressful, wonderful, frustrating, awesome, and trying all at the same time. They also know it can be a lonely and under-appreciated profession. EMC was formed by moms for moms living on the Eastside. The purpose of this club is to provide friendship, community, fun, education, and mutual support for mothers of tots ages birth through five years. Members in this group will meet other stay-at-home moms, enjoy fun events with kiddos in tow and learn about great family activities on the Eastside.

Eastside Mothers of Multiples
Are you a mom of multiples? Eastside Mothers of Multiples (EMOMs) is dedicated to fostering mutual support between families facing the unique joys and challenges of raising multiples. In this group, volunteers facilitate the exchange of information, ideas, and clothing and equipment through their private website, semi-annual sale, and a wide range of other activities. Members in this group will get much-needed support and opportunities to form lasting friendships with other moms and families of multiples.

Eastside Parents: Wing it, Meet it, Bring it!
This group of laid back parents just want to hang out and have fun. Collectively they are made up of working parents and stay-at-home parents and have teens, toddlers, babies, and dogs. The group believes that being in your 30s and 40s is young (isn’t it?) and like to live at the beach in the summer and play in the snow in the winter, but above all – love their kids.

Kirkland Moms Network
Kirkland Moms Network is an online support group for stay-at-home moms (and dads). The group knows the importance of getting together with other parents for support and friendship and knows the importance of kids learning to socialize at an early age. The group shares tips on everything from getting kids to eat to finding great places to go with the family. Above all, they enjoy staying home and having fun with their kids.

Kirkland/Redmond/Bellevue Toddler Playgroup
This group offers free and cheap daytime activities for toddlers (walking, but under 3-years-old) in Kirkland, Redmond and Bellevue. The group is designed mostly for nannies and stay-at-home parents and caregivers as activities take place on weekdays, during the daytime. This group is a great social experience for young children.

MOMS Club of Bellevue
This club is a chapter of the International MOMS Club, the only organization designed especially for moms who choose to stay at home with their children. If you live in Bellevue and stay at home at least part-time to care for your kiddos, this chapter might be for you! The chapter strives to plan activities that are of interest to all of its members including park days, playgroups, coffee club, field trips, and the ever-popular mom’s night out!

MOMS Club of the Sammamish Plateau
MOMS Club of Sammamish Plateau is a chapter of an International organization aimed at providing support for mothers who stay at-home or work part-time to raise their children. Their goals include supporting one another, having fun with their kids and performing service projects in the community. MOMS Club is an awesome way for you to meet other moms who share your interests while providing a safe environment for your kiddos to socialize.

 

Didn’t find the club for you?
Check out these national organizations with clubs in multiple locations throughout the Puget Sound.

Fit4Mom 
Fit4Mom started with Stroller Strides in 2001. With over 1,300 locations nationwide, it offers its members an opportunity to get in shape, meet other moms and have fun with their babies. Since it opened, it has released Fit4Baby (a prenatal fitness class) and Body Back (a workout for any stage of motherhood). All of their programs give moms the “strength for motherhood.”

Meetup
Meetup.com helps moms find other moms who share their same interests or causes and helps form lasting and influential local community groups that regularly meet face-to-face.

MOMS Club
This support group is designed for the stay-at-home mom. If you are interested in the world around you, want a variety of activities for you and your kiddos, and are proud of your choice of at-home mothering for your family, this could be the group for you!

Mothers of Preschoolers (MOPS)
MOPS connects moms all over the world to a community of women, in their own neighborhoods, who meet together to laugh, cry, and embrace the journey of motherhood. MOPS groups encourage moms to be honest, to feel more equipped, and to find their identity by journeying alongside one another.

See Mommy Run
Stay fit. Stay healthy. It’s one of the most important things we can do as a mom. If you would like to join other moms in your area to run or walk or to share health, fitness, and everyday living tips, this is the group for you. See Mommy Run invites moms to join existing groups in their area or start one of their own.

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July Hot List – Sales, Discounts & Free Stuff

by writerredtri

Whether you’re hitting up the Appel & Frank Sale for cool kids clothes and gear, taking advantage of the 25% discount at Brushstroke Studios (can you say “Moms Night Out”!) or enjoying a FREE DAY at SFMOMA, there are many a deals to be had in the Bay Area from our favorite local businesses.

Shopping, Deals and Events
Appel & Frank’s “Babes and Babies” Shopping Event

Childcare
Affordable AuPairCare, Live-In Childcare, approx. $7.50/hour!

Playtime and Summer Camps
Get Shipwrecked! Bay Area Discovery Museum open late!
25% off Mom’s Group Pottery Parties at Brushstrokes Studio
Target Arts & Wonder @ SFMOMA: A Free Family Day


Shopping, Deals and Events

Appel & Frank’s ‘Babes & Babies’ Shopping Event
Don’t miss the hottest MOM & BABY shopping event in the Bay Area!  Modern moms are invited to shop at Appel & Frank’s ‘Babes & Babies’ event because their little ones should look as stylish as they do!  The event features over 50 designers and companies offering merchandise including baby and toddler clothing, gear, accessories and more, all at discounted prices!  Appel & Frank’s Babes & Babies event will be held on July 18th from 9:00am – 2:00pm at the JCC in San Francisco (3200 California Street @ Presidio). The first 300 guests to arrive will receive Appel & Frank’s lush reusable gift bags, stuffed with a number of fabulous goodies.  In addition, shoppers can enter to win amazing raffle gifts!
Appel & Frank
appelandfrank.com


Childcare

Affordable AuPairCare, Live-In Childcare, approx. $7.50/hour!
AuPairCare, a leading au pair agency with a BBB rating of A+ providing dependable, affordable, flexible LIVE-IN childcare at approximately $320/week. Since 1989, AuPairCare has successfully placed over 30,000 au pairs from 40 countries with caring American families.

AuPairCare provides families with a dependable, personalized childcare solution by matching each family with a carefully screened and experienced au pair. A surprisingly affordable option, AuPairCare, offers reliable, flexible childcare in the comfort of your own home. Infant specialized program also available.
1-800-4AUPAIR /1-800-428-7247
Save $350 NOW, code RMZEROAPP
www.aupaircare.com


Playtime and Summer Camps

Get Shipwrecked! Bay Area Discovery Museum open late!
Open late by popular demand from 5 – 8 pm Friday, July 25 for Summer Sunsets: Shipwrecked! Arrgh matey, it’s the Bloody Scupper Plunder Club, here to sing songs of piracy and general mayhem at 6 p.m. Meet our own Dread Pyrate Gregory and swap tales of the sea all through the night. Buy dinner in our cafe or bring a picnic. Tickets $5 – $8 available at  http://www.BayKidsMuseum.org/sunsets.
Summer Sunsets: Shipwrecked
Buy tickets online.
www.BayKidsMuseum.org/sunsets

25% off Mom’s Group Pottery Parties at Brushstrokes Studio
Brushstrokes Studio is a beautiful, light-filled paint-your-own-pottery studio in the Fourth Street Shopping District of Berkeley.  With plenty of parking and easy access to the freeway, it’s a great destination for your mom’s group outing.    Your group of 5 or more can reserve our upstairs studio, equipped with nursing chair, changing table, bouncy seats and toys.  Our experienced staff will help you to create beautiful ceramic baby keepsakes:  your baby’s handprints and footprints on pottery and impressions in clay.  We’ll help you with design ideas and anything you need to make beautiful gifts and keepsakes.  Brushstrokes makes a great Mom’s Night Out activity too!

Call for reservations at (510) 528-1360.  Mention this ad and receive 25% off the price of the pottery for your group of 5 or more people!
Brushstrokes Studio, Inc.
Fourth Street District, Berkeley
www.brushstrokestudio.com

Target Arts & Wonder @ SFMOMA: A Free Family Day
Sunday, July 18th
11:00am – 4:00pm
Museum admission is free!
Join us for Target Arts & Wonder day, when museums nationwide celebrate art and family. At SFMOMA, think BIG, GIANT, ENORMOUS, and you’ll get an idea of what we’ll be exploring through family-friendly art activities and special presentations. You can also join the Mods, a club for kids.
SFMOMA
http://www.sfmoma.org/families



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