It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Something that would make it more wonderful: A trip to the Holiday Train Show at the New York Botanical Garden. As New York City’s favorite holiday tradition, the Holiday Train Show features model trains zipping past famous New York landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, Brooklyn Bridge, Rockefeller Center and other favorites—each delightfully re-created from natural materials—and all under the warmth of the Enid A. Haupt Conservatory.

We’ve teamed up with NYBG to give away four family-four packs to the 2021 Holiday Train Show. To enter for your chance to win one, submit the form below! Giveaway ends December 10.

Official rules.

May 29, 2019 will be a day I remember forever. We had to get up extra early due to river flooding and the possibility of the highway closing. We were afraid we would have to take back roads to get to Children’s for Graham’s Autism Evaluation. Luckily the highway was open so our traveling was very easy.

We arrived super early at the clinic. We sat in the car and watched movies and listened to music waiting for time to go check-in. My feelings were everywhere, I thought I was prepared for what the outcome would be. I mean I was the one who pushed to get Graham tested. For me to get that “official” diagnosis. To have it official for those who doubted my mother instinct. For those who I felt were questioning me or interrogating me. To have it official so I could tell them to shut up. I didn’t think of it as once we had a diagnosis, my son would be “labeled” for life.

We enter the clinic to check in then waited till they called us back. I hear “Graham Mills” and my heart started pounding. They took his measurements, then we followed them to a room with toys and a chair where they would perform his evaluation. He clung to me, terrified. It took so much for them to get the slightest interaction out of him. We were asked question after question. They also looked at his Speech, Occupational, Physical, and Developmental evaluations from his developmental preschool.

As they finished we were taken to an exam room while they calculated the evaluation. We sat and we waited and waited until the psychologist and speech pathologist finally reappeared. Confirming what my maternal instinct was telling me. My son was in fact autistic. They handed us a stack full of handouts. I sat there trying to understand everything they were giving us. I wondered what level he fell on the spectrum? I had heard of levels 1, 2, and 3. What level was my son? They seemed so confused when I asked that question. The only thing they could tell me was the test shows he is severely autistic and is considered nonverbal. They then left the room and we waited for our Developmental Pediatrician to come and speak with us. When she entered the room she handed us even more pamphlets. Also suggesting we sign him up for ABA therapy. It was then time to leave.

As we got to the car all I could do was sit and cry, saying “I wasn’t crazy”. So many family members who we reached out to for support but instead were asked question after question. Asking us why we thought he was autistic or what does the doctor see that leads them to believe he’s on the spectrum.

I then wondered would my child ever become verbal? Would I ever get to hear “I love you mommy”? I was a mess and just ready to get home. I wanted to process everything in the privacy of my own home.

Finally home and as we get inside I thought ok now time to call family and update on what we were informed. But every phone call it was like I was hearing it for the first time, my son was just diagnosed with autism. I then tried to read through the pamphlets given to us full of “resources” to see what else I needed to do. After that, I was done! I put everything away and just cuddled my son.

The next day I got up and started registering for all the websites we were given to “help” us. Requesting the free materials they had to send us. I then called about ABA therapy. They explained he would be put on a waitlist and we would have to wait for a spot to open. It usually takes six months or longer. Once a spot opened they would send a therapist to our house 20-30 hours a week. This would be in addition to attending school Monday through Friday. He was only two! My mind started thinking, when would he just get to be a kid?! When would we have family time just us three? So we decided not to apply for ABA therapy. We just continued with all the services we were already receiving for the time being, taking one day at a time.

This post originally appeared on Guiding Graham’s Way.

I'm a wife and a mom. I have a three year old son. I spend my time advocating for special needs children, bringing awareness and acceptance to all. My son was diagnosed with severe autism at age two. He is my life. 

Can you believe it’s been 20 years since Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone premiered? In honor of the occasion, the Wizarding World YouTube channel has launched a series of “toymotion” videos that recreate key movie scenes and rack up millions of views. We have your first look at an epic 5 minute piece that sums up the entire first movie!

Better yet, you can buy many of the toys featured in this movie, just in time for holiday gifting. Head to the Wizarding World Amazon page to grab your Funko Pop, LEGO sets and more. We especially love this LEGO Hogwarts Castle and the Dumbledore Funko Pop!

Today the official Harry Potter Fan Club has over 37 million members and continues to welcome generations of new fans every day. Find out more about how the club is celebrating the movie milestone at http://www.harrypottermovie20.com/. Or join the club today, it’s free!

—Sarah Shebek

Featured photo: Wizarding World 

 

RELATED STORIES

Harry Potter Trivia Questions Only an Expert Will Get

This Harry Potter Airbnb Will Make Your Wildest Wizarding Dreams Come True

There’s a Harry Potter Butterbeer DQ Blizzard: Here’s How to Order It

It’s official: Blippi is coming to a treehouse near you! Amazon Kids+ is excited to share the first trailer for the brand new series, Blippi’s Treehouse.

The YouTube sensation has been racking up views for several years now (more than a billion views a month!) and is now starring in his first live-action original series. Blippi will be joined by his best friend  Meekah and critters, Scratch and Patch. Keep scrolling to catch the colorful new sneak peak!


Young viewers can visit Blippi’s magical treehouse and see special guests, sing, dance, play and learn on each episode. The acclaimed guests so far include Jordin Sparks, Javier “Chicharito” Hernández, Joan Barton, Blake Leeper and Evelyn Taft.

Geared towards kids three to six, the show will take everyone on adventurous field trips, meet new friends and more. Blippi’s Treehouse will stream exclusively on Amazon Kids+ in the US, Canada, UK and Germany beginning Dec. 1.

––Karly Wood

 

RELATED STORIES

You Can Watch (Almost) All of Your Fave Holiday Movies in One Place This Year

Here’s How to Snag Disney+ for Just $1.99 & Catch Disney+ Day

Buzz Lightyear Is Getting His Own Movie & Here’s the First Trailer

The Braves winning the World Series meant a few things for Atlanta families. First, nobody slept. We were all walking around like we had newborns at home—which some of us did—and the collective sleep depravation no doubt added to our city’s unique forms of chaos. But more importantly, winning the World Series meant locking-in a new generation of diehard Braves fans. And trust us, your kids are missing the excitement. Keep reading for four ways to keep the magic alive for your littlest Bravos.

Atlanta Braves Baseball Camps

The Atlanta Braves Baseball Camps presented by Mizuno offer ballplayers the unique opportunity to learn new skills through the official Braves Camp curriculum while getting closer to their favorite team than ever before! Have nonstop baseball fun with an emphasis on teamwork, attitude, and healthy competition for players, ages 6-12, of all abilities.

2021 Camp Dates: Throughout June in 3 locations.
Registering now.
Online: mlb.com

https://www.instagram.com/p/CU5du8oLqHM/CVrqphjsgWT/?hidecaption=true

Atlanta Braves History Tour at Truist Park

As the longest continuously operating franchise in Major League Baseball, the Atlanta Braves have plenty of history to share with their fans. Tours of Truist Park are offered daily year-round and take guests to many areas off limits during games. With artifacts and exhibits distributed throughout the ballpark, it is a definite must for any Braves or baseball fan. Tours begin at the Right Field Gate and tickets must be purchased in advance online. Tours depart rain or shine and last approximately 1.5 hours.

Online: mlb.com

Plan Spring Break at Spring Training

If you really, really can't wait to watch Freddy and Ozzie in action again, head to CoolToday Park in Venice, Florida in early Spring to get a peek at what the team looks like for the upcoming season.

CoolToday Park
18800 S. West Villages Parkway
Venice, FL 34292
Online: mlb.com

Featured image by Takechiyo L. via Yelp

—Shelley Massey

RELATED STORIES

Where to Get Thanksgiving Dinner To-Go in Atlanta

Teas for Tots: Holiday Teas in Atlanta to Book Now

There’s no better excuse than the hustle and bustle of the holiday season to treat yourself and the delightful return of Frozen Peppermint Hot Chocolate Ice Cream from Breyers is just the thing.

The limited edition holiday flavor is back in stores and will have you ready to deck the halls and kick off the season of sweets and treats. Frozen Peppermint Hot Chocolate features dark chocolate and peppermint ice cream mixed with chocolate chips.

photo: Courtesy of Breyers

Made with cocoa and peppermint, you won’t want to miss this limited edition flavor that’s been spotted at Kroger and Walmart already.

—Shahrzad Warkentin

 

RELATED STORIES

OREO’s Chocolate Cookie House Is Holiday Goals

Your Epic Charcuterie Board Could Win You a Year of Free Cheese

Mandalorian Hot Cocoa Bomb Reveals a Baby Yoda Marshmallow When It Melts

Calling all charcuterie fans! You’re probably already brainstorming your holiday boards, but what if we told you that you could win a very on-brand prize at the same time? Wisconsin Cheese is hunting for the most creative holiday cheese boards to win a year’s supply of cheese for themselves and friend, plus a donation to the food pantry of their choice.

If you’re up for the challenge, here’s how to enter. First create your board using as much Wisconsin cheese as possible, the more the better! Judges are looking for “board abundance” with every corner of the board covered, as well as color and creativity. Then visit the official contest site to upload photos of your magnificent creation, including details on all the cheese you used.

Each week, a panel of three judges will review submissions and choose a winner to receive a cheese prize pack, including a board, knives and $100 worth of Wisconsin cheese. Runners up will also receive a custom cheese board! The six weekly winners will be finalists for the grand prize award, which is all the Cheddar (and Gouda and Muenster) your heart could desire.

You have until December 6 to submit your board for consideration. Time to get the wheels of cheese turning and create a masterpiece!

––Sarah Shebek

Featured image courtesy of Wisconsin Cheese

RELATED STORIES

#LoveBigContest Official Rules

NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED.

HOW TO ENTER: The contest (“contest”) will run from 11/2/2021 at 12:00 a.m. PST to 11/10/2021 at 11:59 p.m. PST and will run on Instagram, Twitter and Facebook. Any entries received after the contest has closed will not be included in the contest. In order to enter the contest, participants are required to do the following:

  • Post a photo of your pet edited with the tool at CliffordSizeYourPet.CliffordMovie.com to a public account on one of the following social platforms: Instagram, Twitter or Facebook AND Include #LoveBigContest in the post

OR

  • Post a photo of your pet edited with the tool at CliffordSizeYourPet.CliffordMovie.com in the comments of the contest post on the Tinybeans Facebook page.

Photographs and videos must be in digital format. Only online entries will be eligible. No print or film submissions will be accepted for entry into this contest. Entries are limited to one entry per person per day. Any use of automated or programmed methods of effecting entry is prohibited.

ELIGIBILITY: Open to legal residents of the fifty (50) United States and District of Columbia who are 18 years of age or older at time of entry. Employees or Sponsor, their affiliates, subsidiaries, advertising and promotion agencies and their immediate family members and/or those living in the same household of each are not eligible to win the prize package.

SPONSOR: This contest is sponsored by Paramount Pictures (“Sponsor”). Sponsor reserves the right to cancel the contest at any time and substitute another promotion in its place. The Sponsor is deemed to be the party providing the prize package for this contest. The Sponsor is responsible for prize fulfillment within 30 days of the winner providing requested mailing information. If winner does not receive prize within 45 days, the winner is to email Tinybeans for follow up (kenzie.kramer@tinybeans.com). The winner forgoes any prizes after 180 days without follow up.

 

WINNER SELECTION:  Winner will be selected within 72 hours after the close of the contest Period from among all eligible entries received during the contest. Winner will be determined at random by a Tinybeans employee. Winner will be contacted via email from Tinybeans. Winner will have 24 hours to claim their prize or a new winner will be selected at random from among the remaining eligible entries. A list of winners may be requested at any time by contacting kenzie.kramer@tinybeans.com Tinybeans and Paramount Pictures are not responsible for electronic transmission errors resulting in omission, interruption, deletion, defect, delay in operations or transmission or alterations of entry materials, or for technical, network, telephone equipment, electronic, computer, hardware or software malfunctions or limitations of any kind, or inaccurate transmissions of or failure to receive winner’s emailed information on account of technical problems or traffic congestion on the Internet, email being inadvertently flagged as junk or other email form, or at any website or any combination thereof. Every reasonable attempt will be exhausted prior to prize forfeiture and a new winner being selected, including, but not limited to review of all sub-folders and accounts where emails may inadvertently be directed.

PRIZES/APPROXIMATE RETAIL VALUE: Prize is valued as follows: TEN (10) PRIZES: $100 Mastercard gift card. 

GENERAL: Subject to all federal, state and local laws/regulations. This contest is not sponsored, endorsed or administered by Instagram, Facebook or Twitter. Neither Tinybeans nor their affiliates will have any liability whatsoever for any injuries, losses or damages of any kind caused by any prize or resulting from acceptance, possession, use and/or misuse of any prize or participation in these promotions. By participating in this promotion, entrants agree to be bound by the Official Rules and the decisions of Tinybeans, which are final and binding in all respects. Tinybeans is not responsible for any typographical or other error in the printing of the offer or in administration of the promotion.

 

INTERNET: Tinybeans and Paramount Pictures are not responsible for electronic transmission errors resulting in omission, interruption, deletion, defect, delay in operations or transmission or alterations of entry materials, or for technical, network, telephone equipment, electronic, computer, hardware or software malfunctions or limitations of any kind, or inaccurate transmissions of or failure to receive entry information by Tinybeans on account of technical problems or traffic congestion on the Internet or at any website or any combination thereof. If for any reason the promotions are not capable of running as planned for any reason Tinybeans reserves the right in its sole discretion, to cancel, terminate, modify or suspend the contest and select the winners by random drawing from among all eligible entries received from all methods combined up to the point of the action taken by the Tinybeans.

 

CONTEST ENTRY REQUIREMENTS & CONDITIONS: By submitting a contest Entry, contest Entrant warrants and represents that: (a) contest Entry does not infringe upon the copyrights, trademarks, rights of privacy, publicity or other intellectual property or other legal or moral rights of any person or entity; (b) contest Entrant owns all rights to the contest Entry, including without limitation, copyrights, and has received prior written permission from a third party if any Submission was photographed or videoed by someone other than the contest Entrant him/herself; and (c) contest Entrant will indemnify and hold harmless the Sponsor, Administrator and related entities, agents and assigns from any claims and damages (including reasonable attorneys’ fees) arising from or relating to the breach or alleged breach of your representations and warranties herein, the contest Entry, or contest Entrant’s conduct in creating the contest Entry, the acceptance or use of any prize or otherwise in connection with this contest.

 

PHOTO SUBMISSIONS/RELEASES: If the photograph or video submission contains any material or elements that are not owned by the entrant and/or which are subject to the rights of third parties, and/or if any persons appear in the photograph or video, the entrant is responsible for obtaining, prior to submission of the photograph or video, any and all releases and consents necessary to permit the exhibition and use of the photograph or video in the manner set forth in these Official Rules without additional compensation. By participating in the contest, participants give Sponsor and Tinybeans the right to share participant’s images, videos and text. Participants acknowledge and agree that the Sponsor may at any time use any entry provided by you for internal business purposes and promotional external media (placement on the sponsor website, inclusion in sponsor social media or email blasts for example) that is directly related to the photo contest.

 

LIMITATION OF LIABILITY: By entering this contest, all entrants agree to release, discharge, and hold harmless Sponsor from any claims, losses, and damages arising out of their participation in this contest or any contest-related activities and the acceptance and use, misuse, or possession of any prize awarded hereunder. Tinybeans assumes no responsibility for any error, omission, interruption, deletion, defect, or delay in operation or transmission; communications line failure; theft or destruction of or unauthorized access to contest entries or entry forms; or alteration of entries or entry forms. Sponsor is not responsible for any problems with or technical malfunction of any telephone network or lines, computer online systems, servers or providers, computer equipment, software, failure of any entry to be received on account of technical problems or traffic congestion on the Internet or at any website, human errors of any kind, or any combination thereof, including any injury or damage to entrants’ or any other persons’ computers related to or resulting from participation, uploading or downloading of any materials related to in this contest.

 

RIGHT TO CANCEL OR SUSPEND contest: If for any reason the contest is not capable of running as planned, due to infection by computer virus, bugs, worms, trojan horses, denial of service attacks, tampering, unauthorized intervention, fraud, technical failures, or any other causes beyond the control of Sponsor that corrupt or affect the administration, security, fairness, integrity, or proper conduct of this contest, Sponsor reserves the right, at its sole discretion, to disqualify any individual(s) who tamper with the entry process, and/or to cancel, terminate, modify, or suspend the contest.

AMENDMENT: Any and all rules and regulations stated within, may be amended for a specific contest to be in compliance with the rules and regulations of a specific Sponsor. Any amendment of rules and regulations will be stated in the contest post.

PRIVACY POLICY/DATA COLLECTION: Information provided by you for this contest is subject to Administrator’s privacy policy located at https://tinybeans.com/privacy-policy/ (“Privacy Policy”)

The new Clifford The Big Red Dog movie shows kids the magic that can happen when you love big. By making your pet Clifford-size at CliffordSizeYourPet.CliffordMovie.com and sharing the photo, you can win $100 to use toward a trip to the movies to see Clifford The Big Red Dog! Entering is as simple as sharing a photo!

Here’s how it works: Once you upload or snap a pic of your pet, the background will be cropped out so you can place a larger-than-life photo of them in one of Clifford’s favorite NYC locations. Head to CliffordSizeYourPet.CliffordMovie.com to get started!

How to Enter:

Option #1: Post a photo of your pet edited with the tool at CliffordSizeYourPet.CliffordMovie.com to a public account on one of the following social platforms: Instagram, Twitter or Facebook and include #LoveBigContest in the post.
Entries must be shared between November 2 and November 10 and the social media account you share from must be set to public.

Option #2: Post a photo of your pet edited with the tool at CliffordSizeYourPet.CliffordMovie.com in the comments of the contest post on the Tinybeans Facebook page.

See the official rules here.

Chilly weather, sweaters and hot coffee are the stuff winter dreams are made of. To welcome the chilly season, Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company (the official speciality coffee of Disney!) is dropping two new limited edition blends.

The holiday-inspired coffees both showcase Mickey and Minnie Mouse partaking in festive activities in red and green colorways. And bonus: the Minnie Mouse Merry Mint bag is the first to feature the main gal on her own.

photo: Joffrey’s

The Mickey & Minnie Winter Wonderland blend is made up of white chocolate, coconut and caramel, while the Minnie Mouse Merry Mint is a mix of white chocolate and peppermint.

Both flavors are available for a limited time only. You can find them at joffreys.com, Amazon and at the Joffrey’s location at Disney Springs® The Landing.

––Karly Wood

RELATED STORIES

WDW Is Turning 50 & Here’s Some Coffee to Celebrate

Get Your Autumn On with Disney’s New Fall Coffees

Sour, Sweet, Gone: Candy Fans Will Love This New Popcorn