ML Interest Tag: self-proclaimed

How We Innovated Our Way into School Routines That Work

By Ari Yares

Since school started, I’ve been getting a text each morning from my wife after she drops the kids off at school and daycare and before she heads off to work. The messages run the gambit from “The kids were a mess and I’m going to be late again,” to “Everyone was really helpful and I got them dropped off early” and all points in between.

Getting our kids into a morning (and for that matter, an afternoon) routine each school year is a challenge. There are multiple factors to juggle from school start times changing, new preferences in breakfast foods, growing desires for independence, and, of course, the chance that any of our kids will decide to imitate a brooding teenager (yes, even the three-year old).

Disruption in the morning bleeds into our afternoons. Arriving late to work means staying later at work. Poor mornings often yield grumpy afternoons when our kids try to imitate Alexander and the Terrible, Horrible, No Good, Very Bad Day. And, of course, we come home from work lugging our own baggage of challenging meetings, complicated projects, and looming deadlines. The key to staying sane has been a willingness to innovate and adapt our parenting strategies as we strive for a routine that meets everyone’s needs.

As we looked at the challenge of our mornings and afternoons, we thought about what was important. My wife needed to get to work on time. The kids needed to do things for themselves. They needed to eat a healthy breakfast and so on.

Wit these values in place, we started playing with the supports for each child, recognizing that they needed an individualized approach because of their personalities and ages. One child got a checklist to mark off while another helped us develop a schedule for herself so she could have time to read in the morning. We made it easier for the kids to put away their bags after school by assigning them each a bin in the front of the house and then shuffled them around when one child couldn’t pick the bin up to put it away.

And when these changes didn’t work as plan, we developed new iterations based upon observation and feedback from our kids, even when we sure that we had picked the right strategy. We’ve experimented with timers and clocks, discussed consequences, and even tried coordinating keeping siblings from eating at the same time.

Most people would think we were grasping at straws, but we’re not.

As self-proclaimed innovative parents, we recognize that we need to see each aspect of our parenting as a work in progress. Innovation in the business world means trying new things and so does innovation in parenting. We need to be willing to change and mold our tactics if we want to be successful.

Good innovation means being in tune with your audience and observing what’s happening. Innovative parenting pushes you to be more in tune with your child’s needs. Thinking about our mornings and afternoons through this lens allows us to adapt and let go of our rigidity as parents. When pay attention to what our kids are telling us, verbally and nonverbally, and then use that information to create the routine and structure for our before and after school home life, we get closer and closer to seeing our values in place.

And my wife gets to work on time.

Featured Photo Courtesy: Pixabay

Trained as a school psychologist at Temple University, Ari supervises special education evaluations for preschool age children in the District of Columbia. He has previously worked as an independent school principal. Ari serves as an in-personal and virtual parent coach. 

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Dinos, Cats & Zebras: Oh My! 6 Wacky Day Trips from the DMV

by rttriciamirchandani

Legend says that it is virtually impossible to see every Smithsonian exhibit. (And we’re pretty sure the legend didn’t take little toddler legs and snack breaks into account). But if you feel like you’ve seen them all, or if you want to spend your Saturday someplace a little out of the ordinary, scroll down to check out these six weird places just a day trip from the DMV.

Photo: Brett Davis via Flickr

Dinosaur Land
Wander around a field of prehistoric creatures—50 to be exact—at this self-proclaimed roadside attraction. There are no rides and no moving parts; just your family and your wild imaginations. Oh, and a T-rex of course.

3848 Stonewall Jackson Hwy. (White Post, Va)
Open: 9:30 am–5 pm (most days)
Cost: $5 for ages 2 – 10; $6 ages 11 and up
Online: dinosaurland.com

Civil War Diorama Museum
Twin sisters have recreated key Civil War battle scenes in diorama and set them up what once was an orphanage for Civil War soldiers’ children. All battle scenes are historically accurate except for one small detail. Every soldier is a cat!

785 Baltimore St. (Gettysburg, Pa)
Online: civilwartails.com

Photo: Ladew Gardens

Ladew Gardens Topiary Gardens
Explore these gardens, named one of the top 5 gardens in North America, and admire 22 acres of thematic garden rooms featuring topiaries of every variety from running dogs, men on horses, squirrels, swans, and more.

3535 Jarrettsville Pike (Monkton, Md)
Gardens open till end of October but check calendar for off season events
Cost: $13 – adults; kids 2 – 23, $4
Online: ladewgardens.com

Mooseum
Get your Moo on as you tour the barn and take in this dairy heritage museum. After your tour, enjoy a picnic on the grounds while the kids play on the playground. This one is soon to be closed for the season so go…now!

18028 Central Park Cir. (Boyds, Md)
Cost: Free
Online: http://mooseum.com/

 

Photo: Go Ape

Go Ape
This unique outdoor experience promises to be more than just zip lines. In fact, if offers a 2-3 hour journey through forest canopies—great for the family looking for a little more than just your average Sunday morning hike!

Online: goape.com

Virginia Safari Park
Get up close and personal with bulk elk, zebra and camels at Virginia’s only drive-thru safari adventure. The animals are free to roam as you drive through, feed them through the window, and get closer to these wonders than ever before.

229 Safari Ln. (Natural Bridge Va)
$19.95 /adults; kids 2-12/$12
virginiasafaripark.com

Where is the wackiest place you’ve ever visited? Tell us in the comments section below. 

—Tricia Mirchandani

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Check Out the Raddest Dads of the Internet

by Christal Y.

Dads are winning internet hearts left and right this year! Some built, cooked and created impressive things for their kids. Others made us laugh with their jokes and antics. Here are the coolest dads that have made the internet a little more awesome. Happy Father’s Day!

This Dad Who Illustrated the Feels of Being a Single Parent

Being a single parent can be hard, but the emotions and love they have are equally as powerful. Check out this dad’s emotional drawings on his Facebook page.

photo: Yannick Vicente via Facebook

Dad Who Built a RollerCoaster for His Kids

Who needs Disneyland when you’ve got Dad?

Self Proclaimed World’s Best Father

From hilarious to heartwarming, this talented dad has, much to our delight, kept up with his photo project for the last six years. That’s six years of happiness for us!

photo: World’s Best Father via Facebook

Dad Who Turns His Kids Adventures Into a Reality

All work and no play? More like work can become play! This awesome dad used his CGI skills to make his kid’s imagination a reality.

 

Dad Who Survived the Barfpocalypse

Just in case you don’t read the edit, the part about the police and breath analyzer is just dad’s way of trying to get mom’s attention.

Dad Who Shows That Baby-Life is Metal

Being a dad is hard work. Absolutely hardcore work.

photo: BrianReda via imgur

Dad Who Makes Awesome Pancakes

This talented dad reinforces the idea that breakfast should really be called best-fest.

Dad Who Becomes Batman

It’s every kid’s dream to become Batman, but when your dad IS Batman? There’s nothing cooler.

Dad Who Started Hair Class for Other Dads

Nothing makes our hearts go, “Aw” more than the Daddy Daughter Hair Factory. Started by Philippe Morgese, this community encourages dads to bond better with their daughters.

View post on imgur.com

Dad Who Makes Amazing Lunch Box Art

We can’t believe how on-point this lunchbox art is. We’re guessing dad’s a fan of the show?

photo: LunchBox Dad

Dad Who Waves at the Bus

This wonderful dad sends his kids off to school like it’s Halloween. Everyday.

photo: Wave at the Bus

This Dad Who Creates Stories with His Son

Adventure and art in one. With the power of photoshop magic, Gabe Tomoiaga transforms his photo shoots with his son into storybook-worthy art.

A special shout out to all the cool dads out there. Share this story with your favorite Dad! 

— Christal Yuen

 

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12 Simple Gifts for Mom You Can Make at Home

by Gabby Cullen

She’s a short-order chef of the finest design, a boo-boo kisser and a singing, dancing source of entertainment. She’s the go-to in an emergency—M.I.A. Barbie shoes and Thomas trains are most definitely an emergency, BTW—and she’s got enough love to spread to everyone at home. Yup, it’s Mom….or, supermom to you. This year for Mother’s Day, let the kids assemble DIY gifts that are easy for little fingers. Scroll down to find a project worthy of your favorite gal.

Mint Mojito Bath Salts
Give her a bucket o’ bath salts in a crisp, refreshing scent. The mint Mojito recipe from Hello Natural is a 2-step mix—no apothecary experience needed! We suggest also handing Mom a freshly muddled mint refresher of the drinkable type for sipping while getting sudsy in the bath. Get everything you need by checking in with Hello Natural.

 Photo: Stephanie Gerber via Hello Natural

Washi Tape Bottles
What’s Mother’s Day without a bouquet of the finest blooms? Kids can feel as if they had a hand in the design by including one of these creative Washi tape bottles. Have your little designer pick out colorful rolls of tape—washi comes in so many cool patterns—salvage a few glass bottles and get sticking! For more on this perfect addition to the standard bunch of flowers, find your way over to Studio Sjoesjoe.

Photo: Anneik Gelissen 

Garden Gift Basket
Green thumbs will love this collection of thoughtful garden gifts as much as kids and Dads will love the easy assembling. Biggest challenge here is finding a big enough basket to hold all the new treasures—we are totally diggin’ the planter box Manda of The Merry Thought decided on using, instead. For a complete list of items or ideas on what to include, scoot on over to The Merry Thought.

Photo: Manda via The Merry Thought

Kitchen Tablet Holder
Has your foodie mama been coveting the tablet holder she saw at the fancy culinary shop recently? Well consider taking an afternoon to make a look-alike. Grab an old cutting board, other wood items we know you have somewhere in the house (or can procure very easily!) and include a dash of glue. Not only could this guarantee killer family meals for ages but it also looks so, so cool. Jane, a self-proclaimed junk-collecter and DIYer, can show you how it’s done. Pop on over to Mamie Jane’s for the tutorial.

Photo: Jane Edwards via Mamie Jane’s

Mommy Survival Kit
Mallory and Savannah of Classy Clutter know what mamas need. Headache reducer, check. Sugar rush, check. Energy booster, check! This adorable Mommy Survival Kit covers all the bases when it comes to to the last-minute, I-just-need-a-quick-fix, moments. The mason jar presentation is fantastically charming and we love the printable label provided for easy decor. From more ideas on what to stash, find your way to Classy Clutter.

Photo: Mallory&Savannah via Classy Clutter

Lemon Soap
She’ll love the scent of this citrusy-sweet lemon soap concocted by Crystal over at A Pumpkin and a Princess. Your little project managers will dig the fact that it’s almost too simple not to make a bar, or ten. To get the low-down on zesting tips and where to get the ingredients, hop on over to A Pumpkin and a Princess.

Photo: Crystal Owens via A Pumpkin and a Princess

Popsicle Stick Frames
Pictures of her favorite little folk are par for the course on Mother’s Day. Make it even better with easy-to-master popsicle stick frames. The ladies of Eighteen 25 offer up a super simple afternoon project, with (again!) washi tape and lots of love. Want to know how to round out those sticky corners or why adding magnets is a must? Click over to Eighteen 25 for the how-to.

Photo: Jen Sedillo via Eighteen 25

Clay Charm Bracelet
A charming way to say “I Love You,” kids can make their mark on a clay bracelet that’s just enough trendy and tons of sweet. Be sure to pick the lucky recipient’s favorite color for the wrap bracelet, you already know which initials are her fave. Find out what other materials you’ll need to gather before beginning over at Hello Natural.

Photo: Stephanie Gerber via Hello Natural

Tea Bag Tags
Get proper for Mother’s day with easy-to-make tea bags. Even if your gal is a coffee drinker, she won’t say no to a cuppa tea if it comes packaged with love. The charm is in the tags, designed by Lia Griffith, who knows all things adorable. She’s offered up a free printable and instructions on how to make this sweet gift. All of the fancy of a high tea mixed with all of the charm of being DIY; head over to Lia Griffith for the tutorial.

photo: Lia Griffith via Lia Griffith 

No-Sew Rice Heating Pad
Even Supermom gets aches and pains, sometimes. Which is why giving her this totally creative, made-at-home, no-sew, rice heating pad is just awesome. Using stuff you probably have sitting in the thrift store donation box, along with a few other essential items, the kids can show mom it’s okay to sit back and relax (until it’s time to start dinner or look for the missing puzzle piece, of course!). Find out what you’ll need for this quickie gift over at Unsophisticated Cook.

Photo: Tara Kuczykowski via Unsophisticated Cook

Infused Olive Oils
When her friends beg her to tell them where she got these infused olive oils, how cool is it that she can say “Oh these? My kids made them for Mother’s Day!” They look amazing and taste even better. With flavors like rosemary, garlic, and lemon, we bet she’ll want to get in the kitchen and try out her new ingredients. Amazing gift for Mom and awesome family dinners— that’s a win-win for everyone at home. Find out just how easy it is to complete this project and grab the recipe by heading over to Just Putzing.

Photo: via Just Putzing

Knit Produce Bags
Making this gift does require basic sewing, (better make a call to nana!) but we know the rest of this DIY is worth the effort. Not only do you have the material in your closet but think of the gift you’ll give Mom by sending her off alone to the farmer’s market with her new bag in hand. Creative genius Delia offers up the tutorial over at Delia Creates.

Photo: Delia Randall via Delia Creates

 What will you be making for Mother’s Day this year? Share with us in the Comments!

—Gabby Cullen

 

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NYC Members-Only Play Spaces: An Investigation

by rtkimsunshine

Broadly speaking, there are two kinds of kids’ play spaces in New York City: those open to all, and members-only spots. The latter frequently carry a hefty price of admission, but surely, you get some big perks for shelling out the big bucks— right? We looked into the most established and most popular members-only kids clubs and broke down what you pay, how the kids can play and what, exactly, makes each one special. Now it’s your turn to decide if membership truly has its privileges.

(A note: many of the businesses we profiled are chains, and if so we picked a representative spot in NYC; rates and services or facilities may vary from location to location.)

photo: via Playgarden Facebook page

Playgarden
This Tribeca all-things-kids resource is home to an early education program, classes such as sports, hip-hop, tap, music and ballet, as well as a 4,000-square-foot indoor playground outfitted with slides, ball pits, tunnels, climbing structures and bike rides. Local parenting support groups meet here, as does date night option Project Playdate. Plus, they do birthday parties and summer camps.

Who it’s for: Kids six months to 5 years old

Cost: Membership is available on a seasonal or annual basis. An annual membership ($3,000) gets you one weekly class and unlimited time in the play space, plus 45 guest passes; you get get an annual membership for just the play space for $2,500, which also includes 45 guest passes. Seasonally, you need to buy a class (starting at $750/class) to buy buy play space access, which ranges from $450-$75 per season.) A shortened winter season pass for a class and playground access is $650.

Membership Details: Membership gives you unlimited access to the play space, as well as five guest passes per session. Additionally, family play on weekends from 1 – 4:30 p.m. is open to siblings if one child is enrolled in a class. Members also get a 10 % discount on birthday parties.

Why people love it: The indoor playground is Manhattan’s largest indoor play space and it’s open seven days a week year-round. Also, germaphobes, rejoice!: the play space is cleaned three times a day, and the play equipment is rearranged every month to create a new play environment so kids don’t get bored.

The vibe: Bright, modern, cheerful and clean, with a community feel — but the service the residents of a tony ‘hood like Tribeca expect.

95 Franklin St.
Tribeca
212-965-9717
Online: playgardennyc.com

 

photo: Kidville

Kidville
Kidville is an international chain, so there are many of them, but don’t let that stop you from checking out this go-to for many moms, dads, nannies and other caregivers looking for a fun spot for their charges. Offering gym, music, dance, art, cooking and enrichment classes, they also have a preschool alternative program, camps, parenting seminars and open play sessions.

Who it’s for: the 0-6 set

Cost: At the Upper East Side location, classes start at $725 for 45 minute classes for the full semester of 16 weeks; hour-long classes are $775. Signing up for one class makes you eligible for Silver Membership, and has a registration fee of $76.21. Camp and Spring/ Summer Semesters are 16 weeks long.  Camp is sold in 2, 8, 12 or 16 week sessions.

Membership details: Benefits include one indoor play pass and discounts at Kidville boutiques and cafés, and on Kidville birthday parties. You can up your membership to a higher level (which means more money, but also more benefits) from $365/year.  There are so many details to the many membership options and their benefits, we suggest you read them here: http://www.kidville.com/eastside/about-kidville/membership-benefits

Why people love it: With locations uptown, downtown, Brooklyn and beyond, there’s bound to be one near you. Also, it’s neat and clean, the teachers are into being there, and therefore, when you see your kid smiling, you’ll be glad you’re there too.  The valet stroller parking is an added bonus.

The Vibe: A place for kids to learn, play and grow, Kidville is welcoming from the moment you stroll in and see the boutique with kiddie fashions, and the café with kid-friendly snacks. You get the sense that the folks here have thought about all the needs of all kids under age six, be they babies, toddlers or older — as well as their parents. Interested? You can register for a free trial class.

Kidville
163 East 84th St.
Upper East Side
212-772-8435
Online: kidville.com/eastside

photo: apple seeds

apple seeds
This indoor play space functions a lot like a club for adults. You can become a member to the indoor playground, and/or pay and take classes in everything from art, sports and music to dance, cooking, science and languages. Being a member gives you access to discounts, member perks and member events, and there are two types of membership options.  The more you pay, the more benefits and perks you get, like discounts on haircuts, classes and birthdays.

Who it’s for: kids 0-5 years old.

Cost: A “Red Apple” membership is $124/month plus tax and “Green Apple” level is $156/month plus tax.  All new members will receive a $100 class voucher for future class purchases (in addition to the member discount).

Why people love it: With a gradual separation program for children 2-3 and a summer camp,  you feel like you and your child can grow with this place.  There is also an upper west side location and a peter cooper village locale. Birthday parties are a big hit here, and if your child isn’t in the mood to use the playground, there are many ways to entertain them in the toy/book store and hair salon.

The Vibe: Bright and cheery with colorful decor, appleseeds is a modern play space and the playground looks like an updated children’s museum, complete with mini pretend deli, block building area and climbing toys.

10 West 25th St.
Chelsea
212-792-7590

200 West End Ave. (at 69th St.)
Upper West Side
212-792-7591

Stuyvesant Town
Gramercy
212-792-7590

Online: appleseedsplay.com

photo: Citibabes

Citibabes
The cultural opportunities run the gamut here, with class offerings in cooking, art, dance, music and movement, as well as languages, science and even private music instruction.  There’s a pre-school program, a summer camp and a 1,500-square-foot playground and gym for open play.

Who it’s for: Children 0-10

Cost: $1,250 annually for a family membership, which includes 10 guest passes,  one eight-week enrichment class, complimentary storytimes, concerts, and parent seminars monthly and 10 complimentary coffees at their cafe. Semester-long classes start at $625 per semester.

Why people love it: Unlike many other play spaces, Citibabes offers group fitness classes for grown-ups. That’s right: personal training, parenting seminars and a Bari Studio and Junior’s Fresh cafe serves locally- sourced, farm fresh meals and snacks. A major plus: unlike many other clubs, you can drop by for free play at any time during hours of operation — not just small windows of time that always seem to fall during nap or meal time.

The Vibe: With a gym and classes for both kids and adults, this facility brings new meaning to the term ‘family membership.’ The open feeling and large rooms are a fresh respite from the cramped feeling of many downtown offerings. (Note that birthdays and camp are open to non-members.)

52 Mercer Street, 3rd Fl.
SoHo
212-334-5440
Online: citibabes.com

photo: Gymboree Play & Music

Gymboree Play & Music
This play space staple has been around for decades, and with over 500 locations in over 30 countries, the folks at Gymboree have earned the self-proclaimed title of “global leader in classes for kids”.  Yes, there are locations throughout the world, but NYC-area outposts can be found in Bayside, Park Slope, Forest Hills and Scarsdale.

Who it’s for: Kids 0-5

Cost: New Member Initiation Fee: $45.00 plus cost of classes, but membership has its benefits, with discount coupons to Janie and Jack, Gymboree and Crazy 8, as well as free open gym times and access to exclusive shopping events throughout the year

Why people love it: Not only are there music, gym and art classes, but “family fun” classes offer the chance to bring siblings into the same class, for multi-age learning. In addition, the folks at Gymboree take safe play seriously, and their equipment was designed by a nationally-respected playground designer with over 30 years of experience.

The Vibe: Old-school atmosphere mixed with traditional classic fun, this place knows what works, and is sticking with it.

208-32 Cross Island Pkwy.
Bayside
866-477-3700
Online: gymboreeclasses.com

What’s your experience with members-only kids’ clubs? Chime in with a comment below!

— Kim Sunshine

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Just Opened! Private Picassos Walk-In Art Studio

by Hanna Neier

Like the idea of crafting with your child but hate the thought of paint and glitter all over your living room? Looking for a spot to send the kids on a school holiday? Thinking about an arty birthday party or enrolling your little creative dynamo in an art class? The new drop-in art studio Private Picassos is the place to do all of that and more. Read on for the scoop on this fresh maker space!

A Colorful Background

Private Picassos is the brain child of self-proclaimed “die-hard Brooklynite” Valeen Bhat, who believes, as Picasso himself once said, that “every child is an artist.” Ten years ago, Bhat started Private Picassos as a “mobile art studio” to bring fine art instruction to the public. She took it from a one-woman show to a company with over 20 instructors working throughout the tri-state area. Now, she is setting up shop in Brooklyn with her first permanent walk-in art studio where kids ages 18 months and up can explore and create art with everything from acrylic on canvas to felt, clay and string.

From artists to art educators, everyone on staff at Private Picassos has experience working with kids. Bhat, the daughter of a painter/muralist and a blacksmith, got her start with a BFA/MS in Art and Design Education at Brooklyn’s own Pratt Institute. A resident of the borough for the last 15 years, Bhat says opening up the Art Studio in Brooklyn feels like home.

photo: Private Picassos

Space to Create

Private Picassos has a relaxed, airy feel to it, with white walls and plenty of cool artsy goodies to check out. The space includes a large communal table for older kids, as well as a tots table for the very little ones. In addition, the studio is home to a popular large scale painting palette and an enormous chalkboard wall, as well as an assortment of fun kid books for little ones to peruse. (This place is serious about being family-friendly: you’ll even find stroller parking inside the studio.)

The shop is also stocked with a pretty sweet retail section that features the work of local artists and authors, Etsy vendors and other small businesses.

Make Art Together
You don’t need to be a member here, or even make a reservation to start creating. Just walk-in, choose a project and get started.

Although the sweet spot for drop-in artistry here seems to be the three- to six-year-old set, Private Picassos has something for the very youngest of tots — starting at 18 months — as well as older children, and even for you. (In fact, Picassos was developed with parents in mind; Bhat says that her idea was to make a space that was at once whimsical and sophisticated so that adults would be just as excited about making art with the kids as the kids themselves.)

Thinking Outside the Pot

While painting prefab figurines can be fun, you will not find any ceramic princesses to paint at Picassos. Instead, you and your kid can choose from a list of over 12 different art activities to create something truly unique and imaginative.

The genius of Private Picassos is that most of the activities offered are actually packaged DIY art kits that you can either purchase and use in the studio or take home to do at your leisure. (They also make really great gifts.) Each kit comes with all the materials you need, as well as a set of pointers such as, “how to mix your colors” or “how to plan out your composition.”

Staff members are there to help you tailor the activity of your choice to your kid’s age and ability level, so everyone can have a good time as well as learn a little bit about art. One popular activity kit, “Model Magic Sculptures”, utilizes a fun, playdough-like medium that eventually hardens like clay. Older kids can create very detailed sculptures, while younger ones can just enjoy exploring the new medium, while also working on their fine motor skills.

“Recycled Robots” is one of Picassos’ more popular art kits: kids can construct and decorate their very own robot pal from (you guessed it) recycled materials. Other kits include make your own stuffed animal, faux stained glass, acrylic on canvas and weaving.

photo: Private Picassos

Good to Know
All the materials used at Private Picassos (except for the acrylic on canvas) are washable, and long sleeve smocks are provided for messier projects. All activities are available and tailored to all age ranges with the exception of the acrylic on canvas which is recommended for ages three and up. The majority of the projects offered are priced at $20 or less, and no project is more than $40.

Arty Parties
Birthday parties, one of Private Picassos’ specialties, will be available in the new studio as well, with prices starting at $55 per child. Parties include a two-hour use of the studio, about half of which is a guided art activity for the birthday kid and 11 of his or her closest friends. Private Picassos teams up with local eateries and bakeshops to get you a discount on birthday party noshables, too.

On the Horizon

The studio will feature a new, special project each week; pumpkin painting is coming soon in honor of Halloween.

Starting in January, Private Picassos will be offering more structured classes, available as drop-in sessions or a 10-week semester. Classes currently listed cover everything from shapes and colors to contemporary artists of the 20th and 21st centuries. On the third Wednesday of every month, Private Picassos will also be hosting evening workshops for grown-ups.  Make sure to keep tabs on their events calendar if you’re up for a more creative mom’s night out!

Private Picassos Art Studio
Open 7 days a week; 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.
237 5th Ave.
Park Slope
718-215-0589
Online: privatepicassos.com

Know a great new space to get your art on?  Let us know in the comments below!

— Hanna R. Neier

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Eastside Openings: 3 New Indoor Play Spaces to Visit Now

by Jennifer B Davis

As we roll into the rainy season, now is the time to have some indoor play options in your bag of tricks. Good news! The Eastside is now home to three new drop-in play areas where your tykes can roll, jump, hop, climb, slide and burn off the crazies every day of the week. The best part? These hot spots don’t require a membership or tons of cash, so you can drop-in and play when the weather’s not-so-hot.

photo: Jennifer B. Davis

DaBuDa Playhouse & Cafe

Named after the owner’s son’s first word (though they’re still not sure on the meaning), self-proclaimed party queen Callia Kwan based this new Bellevue drop-in play place on favorites of her own children. Bright, clean and colorful, DaBuDa’s space includes four moving play structures, three slides, a raised obstacle course, balloon pen, water like “pool” and a handful of kiddie cars and scooters to zoom around in.

Extras
A full kitchen is close to completion along with the installation of a latte machine – a glorious addition for sleep deprived ‘rents. A small area is available for party rentals, and a larger separate party room is set to open for even more festive occasions. Asian-inspired fare is available (think pineapple buns, sushi and moo shu pork) along with kid favorite standards like pizza, grilled cheese, bagels and fruit and yogurt platters.

Best Time to Go
DaBuDa’s Playhouse is best enjoyed by toddlers and preschoolers and because it has only been open a month (and is tucked back in a crowded office park off Northup Way and 20th), the space is not overly crowded. Kwan says that in general, Mondays are the best times to avoid any possible crowds.

photo: Dabuda Playhouse and Cafe via Yelp

Good to Know
Similar to other locations, punch cards are available providing a 25% discount on 10 visits. But definitely like them on Facebook as spur of the moment and happy hours deals are often posted. Combined art/play activities are also featured (days and times vary – check their Facebook page) and Kwan is working to partner with neighborhood organizations like Kindermusic, so she can offer joint music/play classes in the coming months.

DaBuDa Playhouse & Cafe
13427 NE 20th St., Ste. 120
Bellevue, Wa 98005
425-305-7123
Online: mydabuda.com and on Facebook

Cost: $10/Child; $9/Siblings; Adults and Infants (under 1) Free
Hours: Tue-Fri., 9:30 a.m.-6 p.m.; Sat.,10 a.m.-3 p.m.; parties only on Sundays (check their Facebook page for updates)

photo: Jennifer B. Davis

Giggle Jungle

Nestled in the western corner of Redmond Town Center, Giggle Jungle is the newest offering in the mall’s quickly becoming “kid corner” (along with Gymboree Play & Music and the mall’s outdoor sensory garden). Offering the ever-popular pink, green, blue and white motorized toys, two of the favorites include the dolphin carousel and climbing pyramid. Your lil’ nut can even ride on the swinging peanut, without worrying about allergies. Of course, there’s also the bubble pen, bouncy house area (with a slide), a small toddler area and building blocks for stacking and crashing.

Extras
Like the Giggle Jungle on Facebook to get a 10% discount or buy a punch card for 5 or 10 visits for an even better discount. Or better yet… stop by for happy hour the last hour they’re open each night for only $5. The Giggle Jungle allows outside food and offers free Wi-Fi access, so you can drop by with dinner and kids in tow and leave with full bellies and tired tots. A win-win in our book!

photo: Jennifer B. Davis

Good to Know
Socks are required and kids must be under 48 inches to play. Parents must also stay and supervise their tots. Packed with fun, Giggle Jungle is still small enough to keep an eye on your little giggler at all times. If you’re thinking this sounds like the perfect place to throw your tot’s next bash, Giggle Jungle offers a small room for parties which includes use of the party room for 1 1/2 hours and all day free play for up to 16 partygoers. Party packages cost $299 on weekends and $199 on weekdays.

Giggle Jungle
Redmond Town Center
7330 164th Ave. N.E., Ste. E165
Redmond, Wa 98052
425-558-3600
Online: gigglejungle.com or on Facebook

Cost: $10/Child; $8/Sibling; Adults & Infants (under 1) Free; Punch cards: $45/five visits; $80/ten visits; group discounts available
Hours: Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-8 p.m.; Sun. 11 a.m.- 7 p.m.

Funtastic Playtorium

Definitely one of the more active, crowded and wild of play indoor spaces, the Funtastic Playtorium is a large, recently-opened spot in Factoria Mall. Situated next door to the Children’s Museum, this space is good for your most climby-est, slidey-est adventurer.

Within a huge meshed-in structure, kids up to 10 years old can tunnel, side, bounce, creep, climb and ride. Unlike smaller play areas, it’s tough to keep an eye on junior the entire time, but the structure is sturdy enough for adults should you want or need to venture in. (Psst… bracelets are provided for adults and kids alike to monitor comings and goings). A loud ball blaster section allows for aiming at targets or the foam balls can be piled into an air fountain.

photo: Jennifer B. Davis

Extras
The Funtastic Playtorium features a dedicated and larger-than-usual toddler area with soft climbers, blocks and even a slow-moving climb-through wheel. The whirling octopus is a major crowd pleaser for toddlers and is located outside of the climbing structure (a definite plus as the Littles warm up to venturing into the vast, enclosed climbing area).

photo: Jennifer B. Davis

Good to Know
Wi-Fi is available and you can bring in outside food (Psst… pizza from nearby Pizza Roma delivers!). A large room is available for party rentals, which provides fantastic-ness for up to 15 kids, unlimited play time and 50 minutes in the party room. Party Packages cost $199 on weekdays and $249 on weekends.

Funtastic Playtorium
4077 Factoria Square Mall S.E., Suite F-16
Bellevue, Wa 98006
425-533-6574
Online: funtasticplaytorium.com or on Facebook

Cost: $7.99/Child (under 3) for two hours or $9.99 for unlimited play; $9.99/Child (over 3) for two hours or $12.99 for unlimited play
Hours: Mon-Sat.,-10 a.m.-8:30 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Have you visited these new indoor play spaces? Do you have a favorite? Tell us in the Comments below!

— Jennifer B. Davis

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Star Spangled Fun: The Country’s Best July Fourth Parades

by Abigail Matsumoto

Strike up the band and bust out your stars and stripes. It’s nearly time to celebrate the nation’s birthday, and in the spirit of all things Independence Day we’ve gathered up some of the best family-friendly parades in the country. We’ve unearthed everything from giant events to charming hometown affairs–you’ll find floats, music, patriotic pets, and more. Browse our picks below and get ready for a rocking 4th.

Washington D.C.
It probably comes as no surprise that our nation’s capital sports a pretty sweet 4th of July parade. The National Independence Day Parade follows Constitution avenue and passes some of the most iconic monuments of D.C. Invited bands, floats, military and specialty units, national dignitaries, and celebrity participants are just some of the notable participants. Get more info here.

 photo courtesy of Lisa Fan/The Epoch Times

Bristol, Rhode Island
The 4th of July parade in the waterfront town of Bristol has the distinction of being the oldest in the country. Plus, there’s an extended chance for fun–the celebrations start on Flag Day (June 14) and conclude with the 2.5 mile parade on Independence Day. Get more info here.

photo courtesy of Bristol Fourth Facebook Page

Arlington, Texas
Everything’s bigger in Texas and the July 4th parade in downtown Arlington has drawn as many as 70,000 spectators in the past. It features floats, color guards, marching bands, and tons more. There is even an Award Ceremony after the parade, so as you’re watching pick out your fave floats and wish them luck. Get more info here.

photo courtesy of Arlington 4th of July Parade Facebook page

Alameda, California
With over 170 floats and 2,500 participants who travel a three mile route (the longest in the nation), the Independence Day parade in Alameda, CA is a fave of locals and tourists alike. Antique car fans will be sure to get a fix, but you can also look out for equestrians, dance troops, bands, and more. Get more info here.

photo courtesy of myalamedaparade.com

Bend, Oregon
The 4th of July parade in Bend, OR has gone to the dogs…and the cats, and the chickens, and the llamas, and the stuffed animals. It may not be the biggest Independence Day parade in the country, but this Pet Parade is chock full of fun for kids, pets, and the whole family. Participating kids (who are encouraged to dress up!) even get a keepsake and a popsicle. Get more info here.

photo courtesy of Traditional Mountaineering

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
With a city as historical as Philly, you can expect a pretty awesome fest to celebrate the nation’s birthday. Philadelphia’s annual Independence Day Parade includes more than 5,000 participants from a dozen states and marches along one of the most historic routes in the nation. And just before the parade is a unique Freedom Ceremony, where costumed participants give speeches and read from the Declaration of Independence. Get more info here.

photo courtesy of Delco Daily Top Ten

Seattle, Washington
The West Seattle Fourth of July Kids Parade is pretty much the ultimate kid-friendly parade. It’s a low-key event–instead of floats, kids and their families come from all over to walk and ride (bicycles, scooters, strollers, wagons) the route. Get more info here.

photo courtesy of the Admiral Neighborhood Association Facebook page

Pacific Palisades, California
The Pacific Palisades July 4th parade is like a Hollywood version of a small town parade — charming and clean and adorable and nostalgic. Look out for the equestrian units, brass bands, local celebrities, kids activities, and more. Get more info here.

photo courtesy of Pacific Palisades Fourth of July Celebration Facebook page

Redwood City, California
Redwood City boasts the largest parade in Northern California, which draws thousands of spectators each year. Other fun events include a festival (complete with jump house, clown, Face Painter and the Magician), and delish Pancake Breakfast. Get more info here.

photo courtesy of Ed Bierman via Flickr

Bainbridge Island, Washington
This self-proclaimed “Best Small Town Parade in America” is high on charm. The route stretches for a mile and includes more than 100 units — floats, marching bands, bagpipes, horses, dogs, sports teams, military units, local non-profs and businesses. There’s even a $1,000 prize for most humorous entry, so keep a look out for some funny floats! Get more info here.

photo courtesy of grandold4th.com

St. Louis, MO
The St. Louis July 4th parade is better known as the Veiled Prophet Parade and traces its roots back to 1878 (along with some Mardi Gras inspiration). The amazing floats are created by artists and craftsmen employed by the Veiled Prophet Organization, one of the world’s most elaborate float–building operations. It’s a can’t-miss, kid-friendly event that includes bands, creative costumes, and much more. And this year, in addition to the main parade, there will be a special Family Parade at the St. Louis Zoo. Get more info here.

photo courtesy of VP Parade Facebook page

Seward, NE
In 1979, a resolution of Congress designated Seward as “America’s Official Fourth of July City—Small Town USA.” Seward lives up to its honor–and its goal of being a hub for “family entertainment. Almost 40,000 attendees come from all over for the parade, track and field events, parachutists, walking tour of “Small Town USA,” wild west shootout, and much more. Get more info here.

Photo courtesy of the NA Miss Rocks Blog

Telluride, CO
The Fireman’s Parade in Telluride travels down historic Main Street with picturesque mountain views. Locals and visitors crowd the sidewalks to cheer for goofy costumes, homemade floats, music, and the Air Force Academy jet fly-over. To top-off the small-town charm, the Independence Day celebration also includes a community-wide cookout, potato sack races, pie-eating contests, and more. Get all the info here.

Photo courtesy of Telluride Alpine Lodging

Southport, NC
Back in colonial times, the maritime town of Southport celebrated Independence Day when ships lay anchor and shot their cannons. Today’s festival draws around 40,000 people. In addition to the grand parade–with over 120 units and featuring the newly crowned Miss North Carolina–this year’s celebration includes kids entertainment, a car show, and much more. And if you think Southport looks familiar, you may have seen it on a big screen recently; the town is often used for filming in movies. Get more info here.

 

Photo credit By Mike Spencer/STAR-NEWS

Crown Point, IN
Each year, Crown Point puts on a community 4th of July event that’s chock full of fun. This year’s theme honors the power of the pedal; the town will be celebrating everything from unicycles to bicycles to tricycles and all things pedal powered. In addition to all of the parade entries this year, kids are invited to participate with their own decorated bicycle. Get more info here.

Photo courtesy of Crown Point 4th of July Celebration Committee  

What other parades should be included on the list? 

— Abigail Matsumoto

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