US Japan Fam
  • Blog
  • About Me
    • Contact
    • Subscribe to our List Serves!
    • Press Page - Travel
    • Hire Me!
    • DIY Hair Inspo!
    • Privacy Policy & Disclaimers
  • Family Travel + Momcations
  • Membership
  • NJ / NY Guides
    • Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from NYC
    • Hudson Valley >
      • Day Trips & Activities
    • Bay Ridge Families >
      • Life in NYC >
        • Brooklyn
        • Bronx
        • Manhattan
        • Queens
        • Staten Island
      • Summer Camp Guide
      • Birthday Party Guide
      • Classes & Activities for Babies & Toddlers
      • Halloween Guide
      • Holiday Guide
      • Scavenger Hunt
      • Advertising
      • Submit Your Event
  • Blog
  • About Me
    • Contact
    • Subscribe to our List Serves!
    • Press Page - Travel
    • Hire Me!
    • DIY Hair Inspo!
    • Privacy Policy & Disclaimers
  • Family Travel + Momcations
  • Membership
  • NJ / NY Guides
    • Day Trips & Weekend Getaways from NYC
    • Hudson Valley >
      • Day Trips & Activities
    • Bay Ridge Families >
      • Life in NYC >
        • Brooklyn
        • Bronx
        • Manhattan
        • Queens
        • Staten Island
      • Summer Camp Guide
      • Birthday Party Guide
      • Classes & Activities for Babies & Toddlers
      • Halloween Guide
      • Holiday Guide
      • Scavenger Hunt
      • Advertising
      • Submit Your Event

Bay Ridge Area Kids Events Roundup: February 1 - 7

1/31/2020

2 Comments

 
Picture
Here's our roundup of the kids' activities and family-friendly events going on in the Greater Bay Ridge area of Brooklyn for the week of February 1 - 7, 2020!

​Don't forget to sign up for our e-newsletter and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to stay in the loop of all the local goings on!!

​All the events and ads below are linked, so click away for more details and to double check before heading out for an event (time changes, cancellations, and mistakes do happen on occasion).

Click here to submit your Bay Ridge area family-friendly event or program for a complimentary listing in an upcoming events roundup!

Businesses are invited to read more about advertising with us and to sign up for our advertisers' newsletter to receive occasional ad specials and upcoming deadline.

Disclaimer: This post includes some affiliate links - you don't pay more but we receive a small commission from purchases made after clicking.
Picture

ONGOING:​​​​​
  • ​~ Feb 2: Free Trial Classes at Music Together
  • Feb 5 - March 16: UPK4 Applications for children born in 2016 (more info and apply here)
  • Feb 5 - April 24: UPK3 Applications for children born in 2017 (more info and apply here, only available in Districts 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 12, 16, 19, 23, 27, 29, 31, and 32 i.e. not in Bay Ridge, but anyone can apply no matter where you live)​
  • (July 29 until further notice): Play Days and Playdates will be closed except for Thursday Mommy & Me while owner recovers from surgery.
  • Family Friendly Day Trips & Weekend Getaway Idea
Picture

MID WINTER RECESS CHILD CARE:
Plan ahead for your children's care during Mid Winter Recess (Feb 17 - 21, 2020), here are some options on our radar:
  • Bay Ridge Theatre Camp (337 74th St): Feb 17-21 (open house Sat Feb 15); ages 4-16, $235.
  • Urban Steam Lab "Animal Planet" Camp (7912 5th Ave): Feb 17 - 21, K-5th graders, 8am-3pm, $100/day or $480/5 days, extended care til 6pm available
  • Aviator (3159 Flatbush Ave): 9am-5pm $80/day or 8am-6pm $100/day, 10% off if registering all 5 days, 15% off 2nd child
  • Park Slope Day Camp (339 8th St), Pre-K and up.
  • Kings Bay Y, Feb 18 - 21, ages 4.5 - 13 years, 8am - 5:30pm, $75/day, $15/day til 6:30pm, $15/day early drop off at 7:30am, $25/day for early/late combo (i.e. 7:30am-6:30pm)

SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 1:
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 12:30 - 1
  • FREE - Chess Workshop for Children @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 12:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Rock and Roll Playhouse: Karina's Funk Revue for Kids @ 274 36th St (Courtyard 5-6) @ 1 - 2
  • FREE - Chess at 3 @ 268 36th Street @ 1 - 5 (on the hour)
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 3 - 3:30

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 2:
  • Changing Seasons Kids Yoga (ages 4-10) @ Young Love NYC @ 10:15 - 11
  • ​Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults ($10) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 9:30 - 11​​​
Picture

MONDAY, FEBRUARY 3:
  • Dr. Alex & Friends Singalong ($10) @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 10 - 11​​​
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • ​Tic Toc Spanish @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Karaoke for Kids @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
Yoga Club

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4:
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • ​BYOBaby Play Date ($5) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 3:30 - 5
Picture

WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 5:
  • ​Lavender Blues ($20) @ Dimensions on Stage @ 10 - 10:45
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • FREE - Toddler Time @ Dyker Library @ 10:15 & 11:15
  • FREE - Babies and Books  @Fort Hamilton Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • FREE - Teen Lounge @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • FREE - Build With Lego @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4
Nanit - The Baby Monitor That Thinks

THURSDAY, FEBRUARY 6:
  • Zumbini @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Babies & Books @ Dyker Library @ 1:15 - 2
  • FREE - Teen Tech Time @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Dungeons and Dragons @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - "It's OK to be a Unicorn" Storytime with Author @ BookMark Shoppe @ 4 - 5
  • Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults ($10) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 6 - 7
  • FREE -Imagine NYC Schools Info Session @ PS/IS 30 @ 6 - 8
  • FREE - Street Safety Task Force Meeting @ Fort Hamilton Senior Center @ 6:30 - 7:30
Picture

FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 7:
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • FREE - A Lunar New Year Celebration with Ba Ban Chinese Music Society @ Dyker Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Game On! @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
2 Comments

How to Get More Information from your DNA Raw Data with Xcode Life

1/28/2020

9 Comments

 
How to Get More Information from your DNA Raw Data with Xcode Life
Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Xcode Life but all thoughts and opinions are my own. This post also includes affiliate links - you won't pay more but we'll receive a small commission from purchases made after clicking the links.
For under $100 you can get your DNA analyzed by a number of companies who will break down your ancestry and ethnicity into easy to understand percentages and maps. It's very cool, in fact my husband and I had ours done by 23andMe a couple of years ago (see that video here) and my Japanese born and bred husband had pretty shocking results that he was not 100% Japanese!! You can learn about yourself, connect with distant family members, and for those adopted, even have the chance to find your birth parents or siblings! The science behind it all is fascinating, and frankly way over my head!
Did you know, you can very easily download the raw DNA data from 23andMe, Ancestry, FamilyTreeNDA, Living DNA, MyHeritage DNA and a number of others, and upload it to Xcode Life (who sponsored this post) to gleam even more information about your health, personality traits, fitness, skin, and more!?! That's right! It's super easy, and their reports are provided SAME DAY!! Watch my overview video here, that includes going through my own results live!!
Some of the insights I found the most valuable and interesting for myself were:
  • I'm less likely to lose weight from exercise and should experience weight loss better with a high protein and high fiber intake. The reports even broke it down and provided me with a recommended diet plan of 45% carbs, 35% protein, and 20% fats, and exercise plan of cardio 3-4 days a week, strength training 2-3 days a week, and flexibility training 3-7 days a week.​
US Japan Fam - Xcode Life Review - Weight Loss and Exercise Recommendations
  • I have a high risk for hemochromatosis (iron overload, which can be deadly if unaware that you have it). This is actually something my uncle was diagnosed with a few years ago, so this result was extremely eye opening and has prompted me to make an appointment with my doctor to discuss any necessary diagnostic tests.
  • I'm likely to have both the warrior personality trait (better processing of aversive stimuli) and worrier personality trait (advantage in memory and attention tasks; associated with more pain in response to aversive stimuli).
  • It also ran through a long list of allergy risks, which are not diagnostic like a blood or skin test, but are still useful and could prompt one's decision to go in for further testing, or perhaps to understand your baby's possible increased risk before introducing first foods. I found it interesting that I have a high risk of peanut allergy, yet I don't have one and neither do my 3 kids, thankfully.
US Japan Fam - Xcode Life Review - Allergy and Health Reports
All in all, it's fascinating to read through all of these reports about yourself. It's very possible you will discover something that will improve your health or even save your life. Discovering you have a high risk for something such as diabetes or Alzheimer's, for example, will hopefully prompt you to have a much needed conversation with your doctor, and be on the lookout for early signs of disease onset that you might have otherwise shrugged off!

If interested in learning more or making a purchase, you'll first need to order and submit your basic DNA / Ethnicity / Ancestry Kit through one of the following companies compatible with Xcode Life. Here are a few available on Amazon (all affiliate links):
  • 23andMe Genetic DNA Ancestry Kit
  • Ancestry DNA Genetic Ethnicity Kit 
  • FamilyTree DNA
  • Living DNA
  • MyHeritage DNA Ancestry & Ethnicity Genetic Test​

​After receiving those reports, you can head on over to shop all of Xcode Life's products here, and get $10 off the Mega Pack with code "USJAPANFAM10" (valid through February 15, 2020), and of course you can find them on Facebook and Instagram!
9 Comments

Bay Ridge Area Kids Events Roundup: January 25 - 31

1/24/2020

2 Comments

 
Picture
Here's our roundup of the kids' activities and family-friendly events going on in the Greater Bay Ridge area of Brooklyn for the week of January 25 - 31, 2020!

​Don't forget to sign up for our e-newsletter and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to stay in the loop of all the local goings on!!

​All the events and ads below are linked, so click away for more details and to double check before heading out for an event (time changes, cancellations, and mistakes do happen on occasion).

Click here to submit your Bay Ridge area family-friendly event or program for a complimentary listing in an upcoming events roundup!

Businesses are invited to read more about advertising with us and to sign up for our advertisers' newsletter to receive occasional ad specials and upcoming deadline.

Disclaimer: This post includes some affiliate links - you don't pay more but we receive a small commission from purchases made after clicking.
Picture
ONGOING:​​​​​
  • ​~ Jan 26: Extended Kindergarten Applications Open for children born in 2015 - more info and register here!
  • ~ Feb 2: Free Trial Classes at Music Together
  • Feb 5 - March 16: UPK4 Applications for children born in 2016 (more info and apply here)
  • Feb 5 - April 24: UPK3 Applications for children born in 2017 (more info and apply here, only available in Districts 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 12, 16, 19, 23, 27, 29, 31, and 32 i.e. not in Bay Ridge, but anyone can apply no matter where you live)​
  • (July 29 until further notice): Play Days and Playdates will be closed except for Thursday Mommy & Me while owner recovers from surgery.
  • Family Friendly Day Trips & Weekend Getaway Idea
Picture

MID WINTER RECESS CHILD CARE:
Plan ahead for your children's care during Mid Winter Recess (Feb 17 - 21, 2020), here are some options on our radar:
  • Bay Ridge Theatre Camp (337 74th St): Feb 17-21 (open house Sat Feb 15); ages 4-16, $235.
  • Urban Steam Lab "Animal Planet" Camp (7912 5th Ave): Feb 17 - 21, K-5th graders, 8am-3pm, $100/day or $480/5 days, extended care til 6pm available
  • Aviator (3159 Flatbush Ave): 9am-5pm $80/day or 8am-6pm $100/day, 10% off if registering all 5 days, 15% off 2nd child
  • Park Slope Day Camp (339 8th St), Pre-K and up.
  • Kings Bay Y, Feb 18 - 21, ages 4.5 - 13 years, 8am - 5:30pm, $75/day, $15/day til 6:30pm, $15/day early drop off at 7:30am, $25/day for early/late combo (i.e. 7:30am-6:30pm)
Picture

SATURDAY, JANUARY 25:
  • Alt Side Parking Suspended - Happy Chinese New Year / Asian Lunar New Year (Year of the Rat)
  • Changing Seasons Kids Yoga (ages 4-10) @ Young Love NYC @ 10:15 - 11
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11 - 11:30
  • Changing Seasons Family Yoga @ Pure Life Movement Studio @ 12:30 - 1:15
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 12:30 - 1
  • FREE - Chess Workshop for Children @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 12:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Rock and Roll Playhouse: Women Who Rock for Kids @ 274 36th St (Courtyard 5-6) @ 1 - 2
  • FREE - Chess at 3 @ 268 36th Street @ 1 - 5 (on the hour)
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 3 - 3:30
  • Parents Survival Night Out @ The Little Gym @ 5 - 8
Get 2 Months of ReadingIQ for $5!

SUNDAY, JANUARY 26:
  • Kindergarten Applications DUE (extended from 1/21) for children born in 2015 - get more info and register here!
  • ​Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults ($10) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 9:30 - 11​​​
Picture

MONDAY, JANUARY 27:
  • Dr. Alex & Friends Singalong ($10) @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 10 - 11​​​
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • ​Tic Toc Spanish @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Kids Create: Bay Ridge Rocks @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
Picture
Picture

TUESDAY, JANUARY 28:
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • Zumbini Trial Class @ Say & Play @ 10:30 - 11:15
  • ​BYOBaby Play Date ($5) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 3:30 - 5
  • FREE - Chess Workshop @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
Picture

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 29:
  • ​Lavender Blues ($20) @ Dimensions on Stage @ 10 - 10:45
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • FREE - Toddler Time @ Dyker Library @ 10:15 & 11:15
  • FREE - Babies and Books @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • FREE - Build with DUPLO @ Dyker Library @ 11 - 1
  • FREE - Toddler Time @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11:30 - 12
  • FREE - Teen Lounge @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 3:45
  • FREE - Build with LEGO @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4

THURSDAY, JANUARY 30:
  • Zumbini @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Babies & Books @ Dyker Library @ 1:15 - 2
  • FREE - Teen Tech Time @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4
  • FREE - Teen Tech Time @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Dungeons and Dragons @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Lunar New Year Celebration with Ba Ban Chinese Music @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults ($10) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 6 - 7
Picture

FRIDAY, JANUARY 31:
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • FREE - Kids Create: Arts and Crafts @ Dyker Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Lunar New Year Celebration @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 5:30
  • FREE - Game On! @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • Parents Night Out Drop Off @ Bounce U @ 6 - 8:30
2 Comments

25% Off Harlem Globetrotters Pushing the Limits World Tour Tickets

1/23/2020

17 Comments

 
I'm so excited to be working with the world famous Harlem Globetrotters to promote their Pushing the Limits World Tour!! We've never been to a game before but have been provided tickets to one of their upcoming games here at Brooklyn's Barclays Center on February 16 (locally in NYC they're also playing Madison Square Garden on February 17).
25% Off Harlem Globetrotters Pushing the Limits World Tour Tickets

This is more than a basketball game. It is more than a show. It is the one and only Harlem Globetrotters in an all-new, larger-than-life world tour. You'll be on your feet, out of your seat, laughing until it hurts and loving every moment. The 5th Quarter - The game isn't over after the final shot! Meet your favorite Globetrotter courtside after the game to get an autograph and photo.

Don't miss out - get your tickets today and save SAVE 25% for ALL Harlem Globetrotters Games with promo code FUNFAM. Must purchase 14 days before Game Date, 
valid for any game, expires May 1, 2020.

​You can view their full schedule here - they'll be playing throughout the US, Canada, and even several countries in Europe!!

Of course, stay tuned - I'll be posting a blog post and YouTube video of our experience at the game - I can't wait!! It's going to be a really fun show! Have you been to one before??
17 Comments

5 Ways High Speed Internet Service Is Being Expanded in Rural America

1/22/2020

4 Comments

 
Picture

According to the FCC's 2018 report, 19 million Americans lack access to high-speed internet service. With high-speed access becoming a vital resource for access to job, educational and entertainment opportunities, there have been ongoing efforts to expand access to high-speed internet to all Americans, such as great options being offered like these viasat internet plans. Keep reading for more details on five of the ways access is being expanded in rural America.

Electric Powerline Internet

Internet service in New York City and other urban areas is pretty widespread, but many rural areas lack high-speed access. Broadband over powerline is a technology that would allow customers to receive high-speed internet access through their electrical outlets. This service would require users to purchase a powerline modem to plug into their electrical outlet, but would not require any additional wiring. Because most rural areas that lack broadband access already have access to either satellite internet for rural areas or electrical service, this emerging technology is particularly intriguing for expanding high-speed access to rural Americans. Because the technology can be implemented without building entirely new networks, it offers a lower cost option than fiber networks, however, there are drawbacks, such as signal interference.

Fiberoptic Networks

Much of the backbone of the internet is connected by fiber optic cable, which is widely considered to be the fastest form of broadband technology currently available for residential use. Internet providers have been hesitant to expand fiber networks to rural areas due to the high cost of installation, however, efforts are being made by many municipalities to entice providers to expand into their communities. Currently, about 25% of the United States has access to a fiber network. Because this technology is considered to be "future proof," because of the capability to support speeds many times faster than what is currently available, fiber is an attractive option for communities who wish to avoid spending a lot of money to provide access that may become obsolete a few years down the road. Fiber is also a good option for communities struggling with the high cost of maintaining copper networks. 

USDA Funding

The United States Department of Agriculture is attempting to expand high-speed access to rural Americans through projects such as the $48 million earmarked for expanding access to an additional 22,000 homes in Virginia. The USDA has cited the role high-speed access plays in economic opportunity and quality of life as the motivation for expanding access. The project is expected to take several years to complete but aims to have most customers online within six years. In 2018 the USDA was given $600 million to expand internet access in rural America through their ReConnect program. The USDA will have another $550 million to work with in 2020. 

Hotspots

Some communities are attempting to bridge the gap while infrastructure is being built or funding is being sought by offering hotspots. These hotspots are public access points, placed in public buildings, such as libraries, fire stations or administration buildings, that can be accessed by residents who lack high-speed access in their homes. Many communities also encourage local businesses to participate. The advantage of hotspots is that access can be expanded more quickly and with less expense than the cost of installing new networks. The downside is that residents must travel to a hotspot location to utilize the service, which limits its utility. Most communities view this option as a temporary fix while more permanent solutions are being implemented. 

FCC Funding

In August of 2019, the FCC proposed the $20.4 billion Rural Digital Opportunity Fund intending to provide access to as many as 6 million rural homes and businesses nationwide. The two-phased process is set to be voted on at the FCC's January 30, 2020 meeting. Communities will need to bid for funds and the initial phase I allotment of $16 billion is slated to go to communities who currently have no broadband access at all. 

Access to many modern economic, educational and entertainment options relies on high-speed internet service. Unfortunately, many Americans living in rural areas lack high-speed access. However, through a variety of efforts at the federal and local levels, access is being expanded with the goal that in a few years all Americans will have the ability to receive high-speed internet service in their homes and businesses. 

 

4 Comments

Prepare for NYC's Plastic Bag Ban with these Shopping Hacks to Save the Planet

1/17/2020

11 Comments

 
Picture
Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links - you won't pay more but we'll receive a small commission from purchases made after clicking.
One by one, cities and states and countries around the world are hopping on board the train to Save the Planet. No matter how small, each step every person takes can make a difference. But let's be honest, sometimes it takes policy change to force individual change. This is why I couldn't be more thrilled to hear that NYC's "Plastic Bag Ban" is taking effect March 1, 2020!! That's right!!! Any retailer required to collect NY State sales tax will not be allowed to distribute single use plastic bags.

​Retailers can, but don't have to, sell single use paper bags for $0.05. And many will have reusable bags for sale for those who forget a bag. But don't be this guy who ends up buying bag after bag because you keep forgetting!! This is rather wasteful, after all, which is what we're trying to avoid here! Stock up on a few great bags now - keep one in your work bag, your diaper bag, in the stroller, a few in the car, you get the idea!! Shop local if you can, and if you prefer to order online, here are a few cool ones we've seen, as well as a few other hacks like using a wagon or home delivery!

Self-Storing 2oz Polyester Fabric Reusable Bag
This super lightweight polyester fabric reusable washable bag weighs only 2oz yet can hold a max weight of 40 pounds. It folds into its own pocket for super quick and easy storage, with no extra bag to lose!
Self-Storing 2oz Polyester Fabric Reusable Bag

Ripstop Polyester Fabric Reusable Bag
Made of lightweight but durable ripstop polyester fabric, this washable and reusable bag squishes into a 4" carrier and can hold up to 50 pounds.
Ripstop Polyester Fabric Reusable Bag
Washable Cotton Mesh Bag
Made of 100% cotton, these washable and reusable mesh bags hold up to 40 pounds and are great for produce shopping.
Washable Cotton Mesh Reusable Bag

Cart or Wagon
Of course, you can go beyond bags. I have been LOVING my wagon - it carries my kids and their stuff, and it also carries my groceries, no bags required!! Many New Yorkers are used to the standard vertical carts, but they're not so practical as you have to be very careful with stacking your goods. My Wonderfold Wagon can hold up to 200 pounds, and it collapses so it doesn't take up too much space in our entry way! Get 25% off a W1 or W2 model at wonderfoldwagon.com with code "heathert25", or find on Amazon.
Picture

Home Delivery (Fresh Direct)
You may find this the push to do more home delivery, which will use more gas, and require a tip and possibly a delivery fee, but it sure is easy to shop from home! Personally, I'm a huge fan of Fresh Direct - they have same and next day delivery, and the bonus is that they use HUGE reusable bags. They'll pick up your last batch of bags with your next round of groceries, and in between you are free to use their bags as needed - I usually fold a couple and keep them in my wagon to organize local grocery shopping! Did I mention, THEY'RE HUGE and very strong!!
Picture
11 Comments

Bay Ridge Area Kids Events Roundup: January 18 - 24

1/16/2020

1 Comment

 
Picture
Here's our roundup of the kids' activities and family-friendly events going on in the Greater Bay Ridge area of Brooklyn for the week of January 18 - 24, 2020!

​Don't forget to sign up for our e-newsletter and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to stay in the loop of all the local goings on!!

​All the events and ads below are linked, so click away for more details and to double check before heading out for an event (time changes, cancellations, and mistakes do happen on occasion).

Click here to submit your Bay Ridge area family-friendly event or program for a complimentary listing in an upcoming events roundup!

Businesses are invited to read more about advertising with us and to sign up for our advertisers' newsletter to receive occasional ad specials and upcoming deadline.

Disclaimer: This post includes some affiliate links - you don't pay more but we receive a small commission from purchases made after clicking.
Picture
ONGOING:​​​​​
  • ​~ Jan 21: Kindergarten Applications Open for children born in 2015 - due January 21, more info and register here!
  • ~ Feb 2: Free Trial Classes at Music Together
  • Feb 5 - March 16: UPK4 Applications for children born in 2016 (more info and apply here)
  • Feb 5 - April 24: UPK3 Applications for children born in 2017 (more info and apply here, only available in Districts 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 12, 16, 19, 23, 27, 29, 31, and 32 i.e. not in Bay Ridge, but anyone can apply no matter where you live)​
  • (July 29 until further notice): Play Days and Playdates will be closed except for Thursday Mommy & Me while owner recovers from surgery.
  • Family Friendly Day Trips & Weekend Getaway Idea
Picture
MID WINTER RECESS CHILD CARE:
Plan ahead for your children's care during Mid Winter Recess (Feb 17 - 21, 2020), here are some options on our radar:
  • Bay Ridge Theatre Camp (337 74th St): Feb 17-21 (open house Sat Feb 15); ages 4-16, $235.
  • Urban Steam Lab "Animal Planet" Camp (7912 5th Ave): Feb 17 - 21, K-5th graders, 8am-3pm, $100/day or $480/5 days, extended care til 6pm available
  • Aviator (3159 Flatbush Ave): 9am-5pm $80/day or 8am-6pm $100/day, 10% off if registering all 5 days, 15% off 2nd child
  • Park Slope Day Camp (339 8th St), Pre-K and up.
  • Kings Bay Y, Feb 18 - 21, ages 4.5 - 13 years, 8am - 5:30pm, $75/day, $15/day til 6:30pm, $15/day early drop off at 7:30am, $25/day for early/late combo (i.e. 7:30am-6:30pm)
Nanit - The Baby Monitor That Thinks

SATURDAY, JANUARY 18:
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11 - 11:30
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 12:30 - 1
  • FREE - Chess Workshop for Children @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 12:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Music of Madonna for Kids @ 274 36th St (Courtyard 5-6) @ 1 - 2
  • FREE - Chess at 3 @ 268 36th Street @ 1 - 5 (on the hour)
  • FREE - Lunar New Year Performance @ McKinley Park Library @ 2 - 3
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 3 - 3:30

SUNDAY, JANUARY 19:
  • ​Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults ($10) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 9:30 - 11​​​
Picture

MONDAY, JANUARY 20:
  • Schools & Libraries Closed, Alt Side Parking Suspended (Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Birthday)
  • FREE - WonderSpark Puppets @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 12

TUESDAY, JANUARY 21:
  • Kindergarten Applications DUE for children born in 2015 - get more info and register here!
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • BYOBaby Play Date ($5) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 3:30 - 5
  • FREE - Chess Workshop @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
Picture

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 22:
  • ​Lavender Blues ($20) @ Dimensions on Stage @ 10 - 10:45
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • FREE - Toddler Time @ Dyker Library @ 10:15 & 11:15
  • FREE - Babies and Books @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • FREE - Build with DUPLO @ Dyker Library @ 11 - 1
  • FREE - Toddler Time @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11:30 - 12
  • FREE - Teen Lounge @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 3:45
  • FREE - Build with LEGO @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - MakerBot DIY @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
Picture

THURSDAY, JANUARY 23:
  • Zumbini @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Babies & Books @ Dyker Library @ 1:15 - 2
  • FREE - Teen Tech Time @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4
  • FREE - Teen Tech Time @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Dungeons and Dragons @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults ($10) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 6 - 7

FRIDAY, JANUARY 24:
  • Alt Side Parking Suspended (Lunar New Year’s Eve)
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • FREE - Kids Create: Chinese New Year Craft @ Dyker Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Teen/Tween Anime Club @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Tot Shabbat @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 5:30 - 6:30
1 Comment

Bay Ridge Area Kids Events Roundup: January 11 - 17

1/10/2020

5 Comments

 
Picture
Here's our roundup of the kids' activities and family-friendly events going on in the Greater Bay Ridge area of Brooklyn for the week of January 11 - 17, 2020!

​Don't forget to sign up for our e-newsletter and follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to stay in the loop of all the local goings on!!

​All the events and ads below are linked, so click away for more details and to double check before heading out for an event (time changes, cancellations, and mistakes do happen on occasion).

Click here to submit your Bay Ridge area family-friendly event or program for a complimentary listing in an upcoming events roundup!

Businesses are invited to read more about advertising with us and to sign up for our advertisers' newsletter to receive occasional ad specials and upcoming deadline.

Disclaimer: This post includes some affiliate links - you don't pay more but we receive a small commission from purchases made after clicking.
Picture

ONGOING:​​​​​
  • ​~ Jan 13: Enter to WIN our $420 value jackpot giveaway for women here!
  • ~ Jan 21: Kindergarten Applications Open for children born in 2015 - due January 21, more info and register here!
  • ~ Feb 2: Free Trial Classes at Music Together
  • Feb 5 - March 16: UPK4 Applications for children born in 2016 (more info and apply here)
  • Feb 5 - April 24: UPK3 Applications for children born in 2017 (more info and apply here, only available in Districts 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 12, 16, 19, 23, 27, 29, 31, and 32 i.e. not in Bay Ridge, but anyone can apply no matter where you live)​
  • (July 29 until further notice): Play Days and Playdates will be closed except for Thursday Mommy & Me while owner recovers from surgery.
  • Family Friendly Day Trips & Weekend Getaway Idea
Picture

MID WINTER RECESS CHILD CARE:
Plan ahead for your children's care during Mid Winter Recess (Feb 17 - 21, 2020), here are some options on our radar:
  • Bay Ridge Theatre Camp (337 74th St): Feb 17-21 (open house Sat Feb 15); ages 4-16, $235.
  • Urban Steam Lab "Animal Planet" Camp (7912 5th Ave): Feb 17 - 21, K-5th graders, 8am-3pm, $100/day or $480/5 days, extended care til 6pm available
  • Aviator (3159 Flatbush Ave): 9am-5pm $80/day or 8am-6pm $100/day, 10% off if registering all 5 days, 15% off 2nd child
  • Park Slope Day Camp (339 8th St), Pre-K and up.
  • Kings Bay Y, Feb 18 - 21, ages 4.5 - 13 years, 8am - 5:30pm, $75/day, $15/day til 6:30pm, $15/day early drop off at 7:30am, $25/day for early/late combo (i.e. 7:30am-6:30pm)
Picture

SATURDAY, JANUARY 11:
  • Salt Painted Snowflakes ($5) @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 10 - 11
  • FREE - Mulchfest (Xmas Tree Recycling) @ Owls Head Park & Sunset Park @ 10 - 2
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11 - 11:30
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 12:30 - 1
  • FREE - Chess Workshop for Children @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 12:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Music Van Halen for Kids @ 274 36th St (Courtyard 5-6) @ 1 - 2
  • Frozen Jr ($10) ​@ St Ephram @ 2
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 3 - 3:30
  • January Rock Painting Meetup @ Cocoa Grinder (9302 4th Ave) @ 3 - 5
  • "Snowman Angels" Family Paint @ Pinot's Palette @ 4 - 6
  • Frozen Jr ($10) @ St Ephram @ 7

SUNDAY, JANUARY 12:
  • ​Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults ($10) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 9:30 - 11​​​
  • Changing Seasons Yoga (Parent & Child Class, 2-4yrs) @ Young Love NYC @ 11 - 11:45
  • Changing Seasons Yoga (Kids Class, 4-10yrs) @ Young Love NYC @ 12 - 12:45
  • Frozen Jr ($10) ​@ St Ephram @ 2
  • Kids' Town Hall with Senator Gounardes @ JHS 227 (6500 16th Ave) @ 3 - 5

MONDAY, JANUARY 13:
  • Breastfeeding Support Group @ Cocoa Grinder (8511 3rd) @ 10 - 11
  • Dr. Alex & Friends Singalong ($10) @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 10 - 11​​​
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • Tic Toc Spanish @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Teen Tech Time @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4
Get 2 Months of ABCmouse.com for $5!

TUESDAY, JANUARY 14:
  • FREE - StoryPlay @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 & 11
  • BYOBaby Play Date ($5) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 3:30 - 5
  • FREE - Chess Workshop @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
Picture

WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 15:
  • ​Lavender Blues ($20) @ Dimensions on Stage @ 10 - 10:45
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • FREE - Toddler Time @ Dyker Library @ 10:15 & 11:15
  • FREE - Babies and Books @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • FREE - Build with DUPLO @ Dyker Library @ 11 - 1
  • FREE - Toddler Time @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11:30 - 12
  • FREE - Teen Lounge @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 3:45
  • FREE - Build with LEGO @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Karaoke for Kids @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
Picture

THURSDAY, JANUARY 16:
  • Zumbini @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Babies & Books @ Dyker Library @ 1:15 - 2
  • FREE - Teen Tech Time @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4
  • FREE - Kids Create @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 3:45
  • FREE - Trial Lesson (K & 1st Graders) @ Piano Storytellers @ 3:30 - 4:05
  • FREE - Dungeons and Dragons @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults ($10) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 6 - 7
Picture

FRIDAY, JANUARY 17:
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • FREE - Kids Create: Arts and Crafts @ Dyker Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Game On! @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • Get Snowed In at Stepping Stones ($40/50)@ 245 86th St @ 6 - 8:30
  • Parents Night Out Drop Off ($29.99) @ Bounce U @ 6 - 8:30
5 Comments

AirPods Tracking Case - Trackeroo Review

1/6/2020

12 Comments

 
US Japan Fam reviews Trackeroo AirPods Tracking Case - How to never lose your AirPods
Disclaimer: The post was sponsored by Trackeroo but all thoughts and opinions are my own. This post also includes affiliate links - you won't pay more but we'll receive a small commission from purchases made after clicking.
I'm gonna just go ahead and start this post with a few well known facts about AirPods:
  1. They're amazing.
  2. They're expensive.
  3. They're way too easy to lose.
If you don't want to lose your AirPods, then you need to get yourself a Trackeroo (read on to learn about them and don't forget you can win 2 in my $420 value jackpot giveaway running through January 13)!

​What the heck is a Trackeroo, you ask?? Well, ha, I will tell you, because they sponsored this post, but y'all know me and I'm no sell out - I only promote what I truly love and guys, I love me some Trackeroo!! Watch my quick demo and review here:
Trackeroo is a little silicone case that fits your AirPods case perfectly. It has a charging spot so you can still charge right in the case. It also has a handy carabiner and "contact if found" tag. But here's where it is truly awesome - it has a slot for a tracking tile!! YES!! Just sync it with your phone and you no longer have to worry about misplacing your AirPods at home, in your car, or out and about.
You can now track your AirPods from your phone, using a locator map and you can make your tracking tile ring if you know it's nearby but can't quite find it. You can also double tap the tracking tile to make your phone ring, even if on silent! We all know the struggle of losing your phone at home and not having anyone else around with a phone to call it for you. Struggle no more - your Trackeroo tracking tile will save the day!
US Japan Fam reviews Trackeroo AirPods Tracking Case - How to never lose your AirPods
The silicone case fits nice and snug so you don't have to worry about your AirPods case or the tracking tile falling out, and it comes in a number of colors to choose from, including black, pink, blue, green, red, and my personal favorite, glow in the dark!! Prices for the Trackeroo range from $7 - 15, and the tracking device is an extra $20 or so. You can buy the tiles in bulk to save a bit - I plan on taping one to each of our remotes so we never lose one of those again (have you heard the story of how we lost a remote for 6+ months because one of the kids zippered it inside one of our couch cushions and forgot?!?! TRUE STORY!!!).
You can read more about Trackeroo on their website, and buy them on Amazon (affiliate links):
  • Trackeroo AirPods Case
  • Tracking Tile​​
  • AirPods
  • Knock-Off AirPods
You can also enter to win 2 of these Trackeroos (with tracking tiles) in my $420 value jackpot giveaway here (ending January 13)!!
12 Comments

Hotel Review: Westgate New York Grand Central

1/6/2020

2 Comments

 
Picture

The Westgate New York Grand Central hotel chain offers several fantastic spot locations for vacations or business stays in New York City. Each hotel is based near international and local sites. The Westgate NYC hotel located in Midtown East has rooms with balconies overlooking the city with triple-paned windows to ensure a quiet night's rest. Luxe rooms are available for those who prefer a bit of pampering.

 

Clean, Comfortable, and Convenient

 

Most rooms are sized for up to two guests with air conditioning and heating, outlets for electronic devices, granite surfaces, an adjustable thermostat, and extra pillows and blankets. Other amenities include an in-room safe, cable TV, MP3 connections, and 24-hour housekeeping. Luxe rooms have herringbone wood flooring, an ergonomic chair at a modern desk, and luxury toiletries. Naturally, there's additional space and beautiful works of art in these upgraded rooms. You can really get a feel for the comfort and beauty of each room by taking a virtual tour. Some of the best reasons to book a room in this beautiful hotel are the views of the city.

 

Eat In or Eat Out

 

When you first arrive at the hotel, you may prefer to eat at the hotel and rest up for the rest of your stay in New York. Ask about the daily food and beverage credit available at Tudor city Marketplace and Bar, or you can use the in-room phone to call a local takeout place. Once you've rested and ready to try some of the best eating places in NYC, be sure to visit Katz's Delicatessen, Lombardi's for pizza, Nathan's Famous on Coney Island, and Minetta Tavern in Greenwich Village. If you have a bit more money to spend, you may want to book reservations for Rao's Southern Italian dining or Delmonico's in the Financial District. Take a look at the options on Westgate New York Grand Central Hotel's Official Site for maps and other information.

 

Easy Access to NYC's Best Sites

 

Of course, no review of a hotel in New York would be complete without some mention of access to the sites and sounds of the city. From the Westgate NYC Hotel In Midtown East, you can take a short walk to the United Nations building for a guided tour or head to the Murray Hill neighborhood a visit the Scandinavia House cultural center. From the Westgate NYC hotel, you'll be convenient to the Chrysler Building, Grand Central Station, Times Square, Rockefeller Center, and many more of the sites. Don't forget to check out some of the most popular nightlife activities, such as late-night jazz clubs, 24-hour pizza spots, and a sleepover at the American Museum of Natural History.

 

Overall, when you book a stay at the Westgate NYC Hotel, you can be confident that your room or rooms are safe and comfortable. You'll be within walking distance of many great places to eat and sightsee. Transportation to further locations is convenient. The hotel's amenities and service are great, so make your reservations today.

Picture
2 Comments
<<Previous
    US Japan Fam on Facebook
    US Japan Fam on Instagram
    US Japan Fam on Twitter
    US Japan Fam on YouTube
    US Japan Fam on Pinterest
    Picture
    My Amazon Storefront
    US Japan Fam on TikTok
    Follow on Bloglovin
    Contact Me!
    Picture
    shop my Amazon storefront

    RSS Feed

    Picture

    About  ME:

    I'm a NYC metro area mom blogger living in NJ with my Japanese husband & our 3 kids (twins + 1), focusing on fun and honest product and travel reviews, helping busy parents find the best for their families! Find what you need in the menu bar or search section above!

    Legit Ways To Make Money From Home - a stay at home mom's guide to working from home

    USFamilyGuide.com

    Parent Reviewers Directory Listing

    Categories

    All
    All Inclusive Resorts
    Baby
    Babywearing
    Babywise
    Bay Ridge
    Bilingual
    Birth Story
    Breastfeeding
    Childbirth
    Cleaning
    Co-sleeping
    Crystal Springs Resort
    Family Friendly Hotels
    Fashion
    Female Solo Travel
    Fitness
    Giveaway
    Guest Post
    Hair Dye
    Healthy Living
    Home
    Hudson Valley
    Hypnobabies
    International Family Vacations
    Interracial Marriage
    Japan
    Japan Travel
    Jet Programme
    Kids Activities
    Lancaster
    Learn Japanese
    Long Haul Flights
    Maternity Leave
    Mexico Vacation
    Momcation
    Mommy Nearest
    Motherhood
    Multigenerational Family Vacations
    Multingenerational Travel
    New Jersey
    New York
    Pregnancy
    Review
    Road Trips
    School
    Sleep Training
    Sponsored Post
    Stay At Home Mother
    Technology
    Theater
    Theme Parks
    Toddler Faves
    Toddlers
    Toys
    Travel
    Tri State Area Travel
    Twin Pregnancy
    Twins
    Unique Accommodations
    Vaccination
    Vlog
    Weaning
    Weightloss
    Woodloch
    YouTube / Social

    Archives

    June 2025
    May 2025
    April 2025
    March 2025
    February 2025
    January 2025
    December 2024
    November 2024
    October 2024
    September 2024
    August 2024
    July 2024
    June 2024
    May 2024
    April 2024
    March 2024
    February 2024
    January 2024
    December 2023
    November 2023
    October 2023
    September 2023
    August 2023
    July 2023
    June 2023
    April 2023
    March 2023
    February 2023
    December 2022
    November 2022
    October 2022
    June 2022
    April 2022
    March 2022
    February 2022
    January 2022
    December 2021
    November 2021
    October 2021
    September 2021
    August 2021
    July 2021
    June 2021
    May 2021
    April 2021
    March 2021
    February 2021
    January 2021
    December 2020
    November 2020
    October 2020
    September 2020
    August 2020
    June 2020
    May 2020
    April 2020
    March 2020
    February 2020
    January 2020
    December 2019
    November 2019
    October 2019
    September 2019
    August 2019
    July 2019
    June 2019
    May 2019
    April 2019
    March 2019
    February 2019
    January 2019
    December 2018
    November 2018
    October 2018
    September 2018
    August 2018
    July 2018
    June 2018
    May 2018
    April 2018
    March 2018
    February 2018
    January 2018
    December 2017
    November 2017
    October 2017
    September 2017
    August 2017
    July 2017
    June 2017
    May 2017
    April 2017
    March 2017
    February 2017
    January 2017
    December 2016
    November 2016
    October 2016
    September 2016
    August 2016
    July 2016
    June 2016
    May 2016
    April 2016
    March 2016
    February 2016
    January 2016
    December 2015
    November 2015
    September 2015
    August 2015
    July 2015
    June 2015
    May 2015
    April 2015
    March 2015
    February 2015
    January 2015
    December 2014
    November 2014
    October 2014
    September 2014
    August 2014
    July 2014
    June 2014
    May 2014
    April 2014
    March 2014
    February 2014
    January 2014
    December 2013
    November 2013
    October 2013
    September 2013
    August 2013
    July 2013
    June 2013
    May 2013
    April 2013
    March 2013
    December 2012

Proudly powered by Weebly