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November 29, 2006
Farewell, Wiggle Greg
We've been saddened to read the headlines about Greg Page, lead singer of the beloved (and wildly, wildly popular) kids' band The Wiggles.
Apparently 34-year-old Greg (a.k.a. "the yellow Wiggle") is seriously ill and is leaving the group. He has already been absent from several shows on their 2006 world tour, with his longtime understudy filling in. (The understudy is expected to now replace Greg permanently.)
The Wiggles last performed in DC in August '06 at the Verizon Center, and their "Dorothy the Dinosaur's Dance Party" was at the Strathmore in Bethesda just last week. The band has become an industry all its own, with the very first "Wiggly Play Center" in the U.S. opening this fall in suburban Dallas, Texas (just down the street from where I grew up!).
To keep up with their news and get special perks, join the Wiggles Fan Club, set to launch in January '07.
Posted by Sarah at 2:32 PM
November 28, 2006
Fun way to support the Montgomery County Child Passenger Safety Program
Thanks to local mama Amanda Maiorana-Farber for sharing this news:
The Bethesda MOMS Club Downtown Chapter will host a fundraiser for the Montgomery County Child Passenger Safety Program this Sunday, December 3, from 2 to 6 p.m. at Color Me Mine in Bethesda (located off Veterans Park, near Woodmont Ave.)
Bring the kids, and friends, to paint your own pottery (just in time for holiday gifts), and a portion of the proceeds will go to this great cause, supporting child passenger safety education and services throughout Montgomery County.
Did you know that this great program will offer a free, no-appointment-required car seat check-up on December 14 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Fitzgerald Auto Mall in Rockville (5501 Nicholson Ln., 1/2 mile off Rockville Pike)? Just one of many they offer at locations throughout the county, all year long. Trained technicians can instruct you on how to be sure your child is in the right seat, properly secured, and that the carseat is properly installed in your vehicle. Well worth a few moments to be sure your little one is safe!
More info about local carseat checks from the program website:
If you live in Fairfax County and would like information on having your child safety seat checked, please call their hotline at 703.280.0559. The University of Maryland in College Park has a fitting station: Call 301.405.3555 to schedule an appointment. For locations in Maryland outside Montgomery County that inspect child safety seats, call Maryland Kids in Safety Seats at 1.800.370.SEAT. For child safety seat inspections in Washington, D.C., please call 202.884.4993 for the fitting station at Children's Hospital.
Posted by Sarah at 10:40 PM
Holiday spirit alive and well at Union Station
I love going to Union Station during the holidays. It's just beautiful. This time last year, when my mom was visiting from Texas, we packed up our then 19-month-old daughter and had a wonderful weekend brunch, checked out the Holiday Model Train display, and took some great photos.
TONIGHT, November 28, at 6 p.m., it's the official tree-lighting in Union Station's Main Hall. For the 10th consecutive year, the event is hosted by the Royal Norwegian Embassy, with the Norwegian government providing the city of Washington, DC with a gorgeous 32-ft. Douglas Fir.
Tonight after the tree lighting, check out the 4-ft. tall ice sculpture polar bear in the station's West Hall. Steve Berkshire, the "2006 World Ice Art Champion," will be carving this afternoon, starting at 12:00.
Also, the Holiday Model Train is chugging away in the Main Hall! It runs daily from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 12 noon to 6 p.m. Sundays, through January 7. And there are several new features and improvements to the display this year!
By the way, did I mention that it's currently "Tax-Free Shopping" in the District of Columbia, through Sunday, December 3? (And Union Station offers free gift wrapping on any purchase of $75 or more that you make while shopping there. Located outside The Paper Trail store on the street level.)
And now through December 20, Union Station is a drop-off location for your Toys for Tots donations! Just take them to the Old Town Trolley desk in the Main Hall.
To find more drop-off locations for this year's Toys for Tots, sponsored by the U.S. Marine Corps, click here.
Posted by Sarah at 10:21 AM
November 27, 2006
The National Tree is here!
The National Christmas Tree arrived at the Ellipse today!
Shipped in from Washington State, this year's tree - a 65-ft. Pacific Silver Fir - will be decorated with 10,000 lights and 3,000 ornaments made by school children, and will be officially lit next Wednesday, December 6 at 5 p.m., during the annual Pageant of Peace celebration. Per tradition, the free tix have already been distributed by the National Park Service, in early November. (Sorry, but they've long since been claimed, and there are none issued on the day of the event.)
Even if you missed out on this year's ticket distribution for the Pageant, you should still take the little ones to visit the National Tree, which will be illuminated every evening from dusk to 11 p.m., December 7-January 1. Plus, virtually every night in December a local musical group will entertain visitors - No tix required! And as I recall, there are typically vendors selling hot chocolate, cider, etc.
Heads Up: Naturally, parking is very limited. After 6:30 p.m. on weekdays, there is some limited parking along Constitution Ave. between 15th and 17th Sts., and all day on the weekends. But metro is your best bet - the stops closest to the Ellipse are Metro Center, Federal Triangle, and McPherson Square.
Posted by Sarah at 3:00 PM
November 25, 2006
Free Parenting Forum in Bethesda: "Learning in the Preschool Years"
Hope you all had a Happy Thanksgiving and are enjoying this beautiful weather!
Next Thursday, November 30, at 7:30 p.m., a FREE forum open to the public in Bethesda: "Learning in the Preschool Years: How Play Supports Your Child's Development" will be presented at Concord-St. Andrew's Co-Op Nursery School in the Church Social Hall (5910 Goldsboro Rd.)
An RSVP is required. Just send an email to: register (at) csacns (dot) com.
Here's a description of the forum:
Research shows that preschool-aged children learn best through play. Through play, children:
* learn language
* learn how to get along with others
* solve problems
* express their creativity
* have the freedom to take risks without the fear of failure
How does play do all these things? Please join us for a parent education forum devoted to understanding how play is vital to your child's social, emotional, and intellectual development. As parents, how can we support our preschoolers in this pivotal stage in their lives?
This seminar will be led by Edie Mossberg, M.A., who has over 30 years of experience with children and families in the fields of learning disabilities and early childhood education. A former nursery school teacher and director, she now provides in-service training for teachers and provides consultation to schools and to parents.
Posted by Sarah at 2:25 PM
November 22, 2006
Turkey Day cometh: A few resources that can help
Looking for kid-friendly Thanksgiving outings and events for Thursday through the weekend? Be sure to check out the fabulous Our Kids Thanksgiving calendar.
Want the lowdown on Thursday morning's (televised on NBC, 9 a.m. to 12 noon) Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade? Check out the official website.
Decided to ditch the stress of preparing a big feast (and cleaning it up) yourself? Check out the Washington Post's guide to eating out on Turkey Day, "Giving Thanks to Restaurants," which includes tips for venturing out with children.
As for me and mine, after last year's debacle Thanksgiving road trip to NYC with a sick baby, we're thankful to be staying home! To celebrate, my Texas family is coming to us. Noah and I are more grateful than ever for our sweet daughter, for good work, good friends, and a good home. Thank you for reading, and for all your support in 2006. Happy Thanksgiving!
Posted by Sarah at 7:08 PM
November 21, 2006
New news on enrichment classes in NoVa
Happy 30-something birthday to me! Now, moving right along...
Classic Tales 'n Tunes is adding a new location in Alexandria, at the Chinquapin Rec Center at 3210 King St., to be taught by the fabulous Susan Hayes - who, btw, is also offering a free demo class at the Falls Church Community Center on December 13 at 11:30 a.m. and 1:45 p.m. It's a good chance to preview the curriculum (stories, music, movement, puppetry, incorporating Spanish and ASL). There's no charge, but space is limited and you need to call ahead to reserve a spot: 703.248.5077.
Classic Tales 'n Tunes is expanding class offerings in Arlington and Falls Church this season. Early risers can find an 8:15 a.m. class, and those who want a session after preschool or after work can catch a 4:15 p.m. class. Registration opens in December and January (depending on location), and classes begin in January.
For the whole scoop, visit their website at www.classictnt.com.
Posted by Sarah at 10:04 PM
Babystyle Alert: Coupon Code for 20 percent off, 2 Days Only
Sorry to double-blog today, but I thought many of you would find this time-sensitive tidbit worthwhile...
Today through tomorrow, Nov. 22, you can save 20 percent off your order at one of my favorite maternity/baby/children's boutiques online. Click on the Babystyle ad in our DC BABY Holiday Shopper and enter coupon code BELL163 at checkout (virtually the entire site is included for this discount). This code is only good through tomorrow!
OR, you can save 20 percent PLUS get free shipping if you select from the site's "Gift Guide," by entering coupon code GIFTS at checkout.
Posted by Sarah at 7:42 AM
November 19, 2006
The Sleep Lady comes to Rockville
If you've been curious about the famed "Sleep Lady" (a.k.a. Kim West) - or even if you've been under a big rock and have never heard of her, but sleep is an issue for your little one(s) - now's your chance to meet her in person and learn some fundamental principles for improving sleep habits at home.
Next Wednesday after Thanksgiving, November 29, from 7 to 8:30 p.m., West will give a talk at the Jewish Community Center in Rockville (6125 Montrose Rd.). Cost is $10 per person, and reservations are required in advance, by calling Robin Schneider at 301.348.3837 or by clicking here to register online. The event is open to the general public, and all area parents are welcome!
Here's a description of this event from the JCC:
During the early years of a child's life, parents will inevitably encounter some sort of sleep issue, whether it's getting their child to fall asleep or dealing with everything from colic to moving from a crib to a bed. Ms. West believes that some infants and children are not born good sleepers, but also firmly believes these children can learn to become great sleepers. Her gentle technique helps parents teach their children to put themselves to sleep. Her philosophy encourages parents to trust their instincts and be true to their own parenting style.
Posted by Sarah at 8:47 PM
November 18, 2006
The lights go up in Wheaton
It's opening night at the Garden of Lights in Wheaton, MD!
Brookside Gardens is aglow with 650,000 miniature twinkle lights November 18-January 7. Evenings from 5:30 to 9 p.m. (last car admitted to the park at 8:30 each night). Cost is $15 per car or van. Cash ONLY.
Selected nights feature seasonal concerts in the Brookside Gardens auditorium, from 6:30 to 8 p.m.. On December 1, it's children's music favorite Oh Susannah! For the season's full music schedule, click here.
On Sunday, December 10, they'll stay open late for a 10th anniversary celebration - Last car admitted at 9:30 p.m., with reduced admission price of $10 per car/van.
Also this year, Brookside Gardens is sponsoring a community food drive and "Angels for Children" toy drive. Bring nonperishable food items and new, unwrapped toys when you visit the Garden of Lights. Donation boxes are located in the lobby of the Visitors' Center. The food will be donated to Shepherd's Table in Silver Spring, and toys will be distributed through various local charities.
Posted by Sarah at 9:07 AM
November 16, 2006
Weekend Watch: The unofficial (yet fully festive) launch of holiday season '06
The big news of the weekend is the unofficial launch of the holiday season, marked by several events that have become annual traditions for local mamas and families.
The Junior League of Northern Virginia's Sixth Annual "Enchanted Forest," with entertainment and crafts for kids, breakfast with Santa, and a visit by the "Snow Fairy Princess" - not to mention 300 theme-decorated holiday trees and shopping delights. It takes place at the Westin Arlington Gateway, at the Ballston Metro Center, Saturday and Sunday.
The Junior League of Washington will also host its seasonal extravaganza this weekend, the 48th Annual "Capital Collection of Holiday Shops," today through Sunday at the Reagan Building and International Trade Center in the District. Heads up: This is a fabulous event, but I do need to warn you that due to space constraints, strollers are allowed on SUNDAY ONLY this year. So if this is an issue for you with your little one, take note, and make it a Sunday outing!
Last but not least, the NoVa WAHMfest Fall Expo and Holiday Shop will be held on Saturday from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Dulles (directions can be found at www.hidullesairport.com). There will be a variety of holiday gifts, as well as business opportunities and business resources for work-at-home-moms (and those who aspire to be), free food and door prizes. The event is FREE and open to all with a donation of canned food or a new, unopened toy for local adopted families.
Posted by Sarah at 9:54 PM
November 15, 2006
Kelly's column on "facing the fears of young children"
Marguerite Kelly's "Family Almanac" column in last week's Post had some helpful developmental info and parenting tips for those of us whose little ones are going through a fearful or "shy" phase.
"Helping a Shy Child Cope with His Fears"
If you have a parenting question you'd like to see Marguerite Kelly address in her column, send it to: advice (at) margueritekelly (dot) com, or to her attention at Box 15310, Washington, DC 20003.
Posted by Sarah at 1:00 PM
Let the seasonal savings begin...
Ho ho ho, the DC BABY Holiday Shopper is here! Almost as exciting as the pitter-pattering of little hooves on the rooftop.
Many thanks to the fabulous local boutique owners and talented service providers who are offering discounts to my readers. Shoppers, show them the love!
Posted by Sarah at 8:37 AM
November 14, 2006
November discount from Safe Start Baby
Safe Start Baby's Michele Spahr, recommended in the first edition of my book, is offering a $25 discount on home safety assessments in the month of November.
With this discount, your in-home evaluation is just $75, and you get a $25 credit toward any purchases of safety/babyproofing equipment.
The assessment includes a room-by-room safety evaluation, discussion and information about child safety issues, and product recommendations. She provides information to parents (and grandparents, etc.) on how to best address the safety needs of young children.
Safe Start Baby serves clients in DC, NoVA, and Maryland!
For more info or to schedule an appointment before the end of the month, contact Michele Spahr, president of Safe Start Baby, at 1.888.240.SAFE. And coming soon... Visit their web store at www.safestartbaby.com.
Posted by Sarah at 9:43 AM
November 12, 2006
Mothers & Babies Support Group at Lebowitz Center
A respected local therapist gives this moms' support group a strong endorsement:
The Adele Lebowitz Center for Youth and Families is offering a group for both new and experienced mothers -- An opportunity to learn about themselves and their babies, alongside other moms and with the help of experienced facilitators.
WHEN: Wednesdays, 12 noon to 1 p.m.
WHERE: Adele Lebowitz Center for Youth and Families
5028 Wisconsin Ave., NW, Suite 400
Washington, DC 20016
Metro: Friendship Heights on the Red Line
WHO: Mothers accompanied by their babies, newborn to 12 months
COST: $70, sliding fee possible
Participants will:
- Create a supportive environment for sharing challenges and
difficulties
- Reduce feelings of isolation of depression
- Increase awareness of parent/baby interactions
- Develop greater understanding of their baby's signals and their own
responses to these signals
- Learn to respond creatively to challenges such as feeding issues and sleep problems
To enroll or to get more info, contact Megan Telfair (ext. 430) or Peggy Tilghman (ext. 362), 202.537.6050.
Posted by Sarah at 7:37 PM
November 11, 2006
Sunday: "Surviving the Holidays" in Takoma Park
On Sunday afternoon, November 12, from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., Takoma API (Attachment Parenting International) will sponsor a free public event for the parents of infants, toddlers, and preschoolers.
"Surviving the Holidays" will be presented at the Takoma Park Community Center (in the Azalea Rm., 7500 Maple Ave. at Philadelphia).
Here's a description from the Takoma API folks:
"As if life weren't stressful enough at times, along come the holidays. Sweets, presents, travel, special events - all things that are wonderful, yet sometimes challenging when trying to keep little ones on their routines as much as possible. Please join us as we discuss how to navigate through the holidays with as few meltdowns as possible."
For more info, call 301.920.2696 or contact info (at) takoma-api (dot) org.
Posted by Sarah at 7:40 PM
November 9, 2006
Weekend Watch: Dan Zania
We're taking Ava to her very first concert this weekend, and boy are we psyched to see Dan Zanes LIVE!
As of early this morning, there are just a few seats still available in the $15-$24 range. If you're free on Saturday at 1 p.m. and you're accessible to the Strathmore in N. Bethesda, I highly recommend the experience. (And I'm told there's not a bad seat in the house at this place.)
I think the Post reviewer explains it perfectly: "The former lead singer and songwriter for the mythic rock and roll band the Del Fuegos, Dan Zanes has turned his talents to exuberant, fun, intelligent music for kids and 'kid sympathizers' - meaning the parents who are all too happy to take their little ones to a concert they will love, too. Discover music that entertains children without sounding too corny or precious."
If you can't make it to the show, but you're sick to death of one-dimensional, Barney-esque children's music and videos - or if you're already a Zanes devotee but you really need an uber-cool t-shirt or children's book for a stocking stuffer - check out the web store on his site.
On Sunday, Dan plays Carnegie Hall in NYC with Natalie Merchant!
Posted by Sarah at 3:24 PM
November 8, 2006
Required reading from the Washington Post
Two new items from the Post:
Leslie Morgan Steiner's column, "Parents, Kids, & Wills," featuring tips from Mclean, VA attorney Molly James (a partner with Hogan & Hartson LLP). Why every parent - with a child of any age - should have a will.
And on a lighter note, a new Jill Hudson Neal interview with Project Runway finalist (and NYC mother of SIX kids ranging in age from newborn to 18) Laura Bennett, on "Ponytails, Motherhood, & Staying Simply Chic."
The take-away gem from Bennett's advice, "I want to keep encouraging women to take the time to take care of themselves and to spend a few extra minutes on themselves in the mornings and see if it doesn't benefit their families by boosting their own self-esteem and nourishing their own souls." So THERE, all ye doubters! Fashion isn't just art for the vain - It can be therapy! (Especially if you're a mother.)
Posted by Sarah at 3:03 PM
November 7, 2006
DC BABY Holiday Shopper
Ho ho ho, my little Santa's helpers and Hanukkah revelers. Hard to believe, but the season is upon us!
The DC BABY Holiday Shopper will be live on this website November 15-December 31, offering specials just for YOU.
You, my beloved, stressed-out-by-just-the-mere-thought-of-the-holidays readers, can visit DC-BABY.com from mid-November through the end of the year to get percentage discounts, printable coupons, and other cool perks from fabulous boutiques and service providers including locally-based Go Mama Go Designs, Apple Seed maternity and baby boutique in Old Town, Photopia, Zosimos Botanicals, Chic Tots (whose long awaited Chic&Clean coveralls are now IN), The Silken Thread, Noodles & Noggins, Camille Love Designs, Big Yellow Box.... and the list continues to grow each day!
Plus special offers from national online retailers Babystyle, Uncommonly Cute, Pink Taffy Designs, Earth Mama/Angel Baby, and Craftsbury Kids.
Be there, or be payin' full price somewhere else. And sitting in mad traffic, without any promise of savings when you get to your destination. Like a grumpy, grumpy grinch.
Posted by Sarah at 4:34 PM
Tomorrow! Children's Storytime & Party Hosted by JLW Moms Club
Tomorrow afternoon, Wednesday the 8th, from 2:30 to 4 p.m., don't miss the Children's Storytime and Party with author Leslie Young at the Junior League of Washington (JLW) headquarters (3039 M St. NW, upstairs in the Longborough Rm.)
At this special event hosted by the JLW Moms Club, Leslie will read from her two books about a loveable little Scotty Dog named Plaid. Plaid: A Tale of Joy is about three canine friends who decide to play outside on a beautiful winter's day. The Scotties ice skate, make a snow angel, go sledding, and catch snow flakes as they discover the joys of winter and the joys of friendship.
The event is FREE and open to the public! Refreshments will be served, and books will be available for signing and purchase.
If you plan to attend, please RSVP to Allison Priebe Brooks at: allison (at) queenbeedesigns (dot) com or 703.329.6768.
Posted by Sarah at 9:53 AM
November 5, 2006
Watoto Children's Choir visits from Uganda
For the little music lovers and dancers, a fun event - for a great cause - this Thursday night, November 9, in Old Town:
The Watoto Children's Choir from Uganda, East Africa will perform at The Athenaeum at 7 p.m. The concert is free and open to the public, but they do accept donations to benefit children in Uganda orphaned by AIDS.
The choir tours internationally - and has performed at the White House. Their program is a blend of native African rhythms, contemporary gospel music, and ethnic dance.
Thanks to local mama Cathleen Phelps for sending this annoucement my way!
Posted by Sarah at 8:50 PM
November 2, 2006
Weekend Watch: Children's book fest at the Kennedy Center & knee-slappin' at Frying Pan Park
If your little one is as much of a book-lover as mine, the coolest gig in town this weekend will be the Multicultural Children's Book Festival at the Kennedy Center.
Now in its eleventh year, this annual event runs from 12 noon to 5 p.m. on Saturday, on the Atrium/Roof Level, featuring children's authors from around the world (including many of THE big authors).
There will be book readings (including one of our faves, Karen Katz), entertaining performances (such as music by Cantare), and kids' activities (such as a coloring station). There will be free pics with Dora the Explorer in the South Gallery!
And best of all? FREE. No tix needed.
I also hear tell that the twice-monthly acoustic jams at the Country Store at Frying Pan Park should be on the must-do list. You can bring your own instrument, and all ages are invited. One of these jam sessions is taking place Sunday afternoon between 1 and 4 p.m.
Posted by Sarah at 7:22 PM