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  • Blog
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    • Contact
    • Subscribe to our List Serves!
    • Press Page - Travel
    • Privacy Policy & Disclaimers
  • Day Trips & Weekend Getaways
  • Hudson Valley
    • Day Trips & Activities
  • Bay Ridge Families
    • Scavenger Hunt
    • Advertising
    • Submit Your Event
    • Summer Camp Guide
    • Birthday Party Guide
    • Classes & Activities for Babies & Toddlers
    • Bay Ridge Baby Sitters
    • Halloween Guide
    • Holiday Guide
    • Life in NYC >
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  • Family Travel

Sun Safe Swimwear for Kids (and Adults) by UV Skinz

3/29/2019

53 Comments

 
US Japan Fam's review & giveaway of UV Skinz UPF 50+ Swimwear for Kids
Disclaimer: We received product free in exchange for our review and hosting of this giveaway. This post contains some affiliate links, you don't pay more but we will receive a small commission from any purchases made.
I recently posted about my concerns over the typical (quite revealing) swimwear options available for young girls these days (read more here) and my hunt for more conservative and sun safe options for my toddlers. I did find a few options, one of them being UV Skinz, who sent us some great children's sets for review, and will be giving away a full children's swim set (hat, top, bottom) to one lucky reader!! Watch our fun unboxing and swimwear fashion show, keep reading the rest of our review, and enter to win in the app at the bottom of this post!
Founded by Rhonda Sparks after losing her 32-year old husband to Skin Cancer in 2001, UV Skinz produces UPF 50+ sunwear for babies through adults, aiming to provide families with "peace-of-mind in the sun". You'll find great styles in everything from swim suits and rash guards to sun hats and cover ups to dresses and hoodies!
Our 3 year old twins received adorable swim sets from UV Skinz Girls' Seaside Breeze Collection. Emi got the purple-hued Hibiscus Floral Stripe design and Mia got the Pink Flamingo Stripe design in: Swim Shirt ($28.95), Swim Skirt ($29.95), and Sun Hat ($24.95). The skirts have built in bikini bottoms and an adjustable tie on the inside. The skirt provides extra coverage (from the sun, etc), as well as the "fun" skirt factor that some little girls (like my Mia) can't get enough of! We haven't had a chance to wear them in the sun or water yet, but they're absolutely in love with their new outfits and demanded wearing them around the house for 3 days straight, I kid you not, you can even see them donning their swimwear in our latest cooking video LOL!! That's definitely one perk of these modest swimwear - you can wear them in the water, on the beach, and once dried off, even straight into the shops and restaurants - no cover up needed! 
US Japan Fam's review & giveaway of UV Skinz UPF 50+ Swimwear for Kids
Our 6 year old son received a set from the Boys' Seaside Breeze Collection - the Jaspe Royal Turtle Sport Sun & Swim Shirt ($31.95), Board Shorts ($26.95), and Snap Back Hat ($19.95). The board shorts have velcro and tie, are nice and long (knee-length) for maximum sun coverage, and are adjustable inside so you can make them snugger or looser, which is not something I've seen in swim shorts before and is great!! They also have built in mesh underwear which I know some people don't like (inspect before each use to make sure there are no holes that could entrap anything, or cut them if super paranoid), but they're required in NYC public pools so I was grateful to see it! The hat is adjustable in the back, and has a moisture-wicking terry cloth sweat band.
US Japan Fam's review & giveaway of UV Skinz UPF 50+ Swimwear for Kids
The designs and the quality are top notch, and the sizing seems to be correct as well. The shirts are a great length, we've had some rash guard shirts that were a bit short, leading to their bellies hanging out, but these are perfect! The only negative is that the necks are cut pretty small, meaning my kids aren't able to get them on and off over their heads by themselves, but on the bright side, they're fitted and tall, meaning more sun protection (without need for regular sunblock applications) for those delicate little necks!
​You can purchase UV Skinz on uvskinz.com and Amazon (affiliate link), but you can also win some in our giveaway here!! Open to US residents ages 18 and over, one lucky winner will receive a hat, swim top, and swim bottom set for boy or girl in their choice of size. Don't forget, the more actions you take in the below app, the more chances you earn to win! Good luck!! Giveaway ends at 11:59PM EST on Thursday, April 11.
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Winter 2019 Eco Awards & Giveaway

3/29/2019

12 Comments

 

Winter 2019 Eco Awards Giveaway - Create Play Travel

We are excited to partner with Create Play Travel to announce the Winter 2019 Eco Award Winners! Each of these products are sustainable or natural, easy to use and have a great design. You can find the full award details here!

Giveaway Prizes⁣

Revelae Kids cloth snack bags - set of 3. These reusable snack bags are decorated with colorful, modern patterns. They're moisture resistant and have a zipper that's easy for kids to open.

Java Skin Care Full Body Routine & Bloom Duo. Collection includes body serum, body scrub, body wash, body bar soap, rose lip scrub and tinted lip balm. All products contain Java Skincare signature raw coffee-argan oil infusion, packed with nutrients, caffeine and antioxidants to make your skin look, smell and feel beautiful.

ergoPouch Cocoon swaddle & sleep bag - winner can choose boy or girl and size.

goSili $40 gift package of assorted goSili items.

Buttons Diapers (1) trainer & 2-pack of cotton boosters - winner can choose style based on availability.

Andy Pandy Organics (1) pack of bamboo diapers (any size), Organic baby body wash & shampoo (any fragrance) and Organic baby lotion.

This giveaway is coordinated by Create. Play. Travel. and is open to US entries ages 18 and older. One (1) winner will be randomly chosen and announced on Instagram on April 11th, 2019. This giveaway is not affiliated with Instagram. Create. Play. Travel. and the participating blogs are not responsible for fulfilling brand-sponsored prizes. Prizes will be shipped directly from each brand. No purchase required to enter. Have fun and good luck!⁣

Enter for your chance to win in the app below, and don't miss our other giveaways running at the moment as well:
  • EzyRoller Ride-On Fun for Kids & Adults
  • EggMazing Egg Decorator & TreeMendous Christmas Ornament Decorator
  • Brooklyn Baby & Family Expo Tickets
  • UV Skinz Full Swim Set (hat, top, bottoms) for girl or boy (coming soon!)
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Bay Ridge Area Kids Events Roundup: Mar 28 - Apr 3

3/27/2019

1 Comment

 
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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 March 28 - April 3, 2019!

​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 deadlines.
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ONGOING:
  • FREE - Music Together Trial Classes, March 20 - April 10
  • Dine the Boroughs (March 18 - 29)
  • District 43 Participatory Budgeting Voting, March 30 - April 7
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THURSDAY, MARCH 28:
  • ​Mommy & Me with Miss Darlene @ Play Days & Parties @ 10 - 12​
  • FREE - Game On! @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Teen Tech Time @ Dyker Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Kids Create: Be Kind Bookmarks @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Chess Workshop @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Teen Tech Time @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Family Gaming Night @ Sunset Park Library @ 5:30 - 7
  • Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 6 - 7

FRIDAY, MARCH 29:
  • ​FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • FREE - Mandarin Storytime @ McKinley Park Library @ 10:30 - 11:30
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2 - 3
  • FREE - Chess Club @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Family Feud: Women's her...story Month @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Game On! Board Games @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Game On! @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
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SATURDAY, MARCH 30:
  • FREE - Kids' Saturday Cinema Club: Mary Poppins Returns @ IC Bldg 1 (274 36th St) @ 10 - 1
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ McKinley Park Library @ 10 - 10:30
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime! @ Sunset Park Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • Yoga for Ages 3 - 9 @ Sensory Freeway @ 10:30 - 11:15
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Sunset Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Dyker Library @ 11 - 12
  • "Space Adventure" Little Brushes @ Pinot's Palette @ 12 - 2
  • FREE - Family DJ Dance Party - Music of Grateful Dead for Kids @ 274 36th St @ 12:30​​​
  • FREE - Arabic Storytime @ Bay Ridge Library @ 1 - 2
  • ​Roll-A-Rama Family Skate @ Industry City @ 1 - 4
  • FREE - Build with Duplo @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Little Scientists @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • Annie (Ridge Chorale Production) @ Our Lady of Angels Auditorium @ 2
  • FREE - Coloring for kids @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime: Cantonese Storytime @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Build with Lego @ Sunset Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Open House @ Urban STEAM Lab @ 3 - 7
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 3 - 3:45
  • Annie (Ridge Chorale Production) @ Our Lady of Angels Auditorium @ 8
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SUNDAY, MARCH 31:
  • ​​Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 9:30 - 11​​​
  • ​Chess at 3: Story Time Chess @ Industry City @ 12:30 - 4
  • Annie (Ridge Chorale Production) @ Our Lady of Angels Auditorium @ 2 (last show)
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MONDAY, APRIL 1:
  • Happy "April Fool's Day" - trust no one!
  • FREE - Discovery Table @ McKinley Park Library @ 10 - 11
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • FREE - Mandarin Chinese Storytime 普通話故事時間 @ Dyker Library @ 10:30 - 11:30
  • Dr. Alex & Friends Singalong @ Cocoa Grinder (9504 4th Ave) @ 11 - 11:45
  • FREE - First Five Years Kids Create @ McKinley Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Teen Tech Time @ Dyker Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Kids Tech Time @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Chess Master @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Dinner with Peppa Pig @ Lombardo's @ 4:30 & 6
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TUESDAY, APRIL 2:
  • FREE - StoryPlay @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 & 11
  • Open Play BRBM Special @ Play Days & Parties @ 10:30 - 12:30
  • FREE - Read and Play @ Sunset Park Library @ 1 - 1:45
  • FREE - Cantonese Storytime @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • FREE - Chess Club @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4:30
  • BYOBaby Play Date @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 3:30 - 5​​​​​
  • FREE - Chess for Kids @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Teen Manga Club @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - After School Stories @ Sunset Park Library @ 4:30 - 5:30

Get 10% off Pip's Island tickets with code PIM10
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Get $55 off King Kong with code KKPVM129!
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WEDNESDAY, APRIL 3:
  • Lavender Blues @ Dimensions on Stage @ 10 - 10:40​​​​​
  • 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 - coloring for kids @ Dyker Library @ 10:30 - 12:30
  • FREE - Toddler Time @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11:30 - 12
  • Tots & Toddlers Open Studio @ Pinot's Palette @ 12 - 1
  • FREE - La Hora Mágica de los Pequeños @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Tinkergarten Trial Class @ Owl's Head Park @ 3 - 4:15
  • FREE - Movies @ the Library @ Sunset Park Library @ 3 - 5:30
  • Yoga for Ages 3 - 9 @ Sensory Freeway @ 5:30 - 6:15
1 Comment

EzyRoller - Ride-On Active Fun for Kids & Adults!

3/21/2019

70 Comments

 
US Japan Fam EzyRoller review & giveaway
I ran across EzyRoller at the 2019 Toy Fair New York (check out my  highlights post and video here!!) and knew it would be a hit for my whole family. I was thrilled when they offered to send us a couple in exchange for review, and even more thrilled that they are GIVING ONE AWAY to one lucky reader!!! Watch our fun demo & review video, keep reading, and enter to win your own EzyRoller Classic in the app at the bottom of this post!!
It's hard to explain exactly what an EzyRoller is, there is a great demo video on their website that will give you a better idea!! But basically it's low-to-the-ground ride-on that you maneuver with your feet, not by peddling, but by kind of swerving them left and right. It's so easy, even my 3 year old twins got the hang of it quickly!
US Japan Fam EzyRoller review & giveaway
There are 5 EzyRoller models: 
  • Classic EzyRoller- for 4 years through 150 pounds, it has extendable bar so it worked for my 38" toddlers and me (5'8") perfectly. It weights 12.8 pounds. $99
  • Mini EzyRoller - for ages 2-5 years old (though there's a 100 pound max load and my 6 year old rode it fine).  It weighs 10.5 pounds. $79
  • Pro EzyRoller - for 10 years through 200 pounds, weighs 18 pounds. $139
  • Drifter EzyRoller - for 7 years - 150 pounds; special back wheels allow for drifting on corners. $119
  • Educational EzyRoller - 3 sizes: 3-6yrs, 7-10yrs, 10yrs+; designed for the most rigorous play (great for preschools & summer camps). $119

Our EzyRollers were surprisingly pretty quick and easy to assemble, just a couple of minutes to snap and screw parts together (1 tool required and included). It was also easy to change the length of our classic on the go, meaning the adults and the kids could share it, just screwing in and out the extension rod in just a minute.
US Japan Fam EzyRoller review & giveaway
I believe your environment will have a big impact on how fast you're able to go. I expect you'd get the best performance on smooth flooring such as in a gymnasium. We took ours out for an inaugural spin at a local park with a roughly paved track, and it was VERY windy. Still, they did great, but I blame the terrain on my snail pace performance (I came in dead last in a stop watch race against my husband and 6 year old son). My 6 year old, however, was a pro. He won the race. He didn't get tired (yes, I found it a bit of a workout for your thighs, which is good!!!). One of my 3 year olds got the hang of it much quicker than the other, and it surprised me because the one who did better on her EzyRoller was the one who is still pretty terrible on her scooter! But, I guess it's a completely different kind of skill set and muscles / coordination at play here!
US Japan Fam EzyRoller review & giveaway
All in all we found the EzyRollers to be extremely fun, and unique!! So different from the traditional bike, scooter, skate board, or roller skates! The perfect addition to round out your collection of movin' and groovin' fun active toys!! They're also pretty easy to store since they are self-standing, they fit into our crowded closet no problem!

​You can purchase EzyRollers on their website or Amazon (affiliate link), but wait, you can also win one!!
ENTER WIN A CLASSIC EZYROLLER BELOW!!
Open to US residents ages 18 and above. The more actions you take in the app, the more chances you earn to win! Some points are gained daily, so keep coming back!! Giveaway ends Wednesday, April 3 at 11:59 PM EST. WInner will be randomly selected, e-mailed, and have 48 hours to claim prize. Good luck!!!
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70 Comments

Bay Ridge Area Kids Events Roundup: March 21 - 27

3/20/2019

0 Comments

 
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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 March 21 - 27, 2019!

​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 deadlines.
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ONGOING:
  • FREE - Music Together Trial Classes, March 20 - April 10
  • Dine the Boroughs (March 18 - 29)
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THURSDAY, MARCH 21:
  • Alternate Side Parking Suspended (Purim)
  • ​Mommy & Me with Miss Darlene @ Play Days & Parties @ 10 - 12​
  • FREE - Free Hamantaschen for Purim @ Breadberry Local (IC) @ 10 - 2
  • FREE - Tinkergarten Trial Class @ Owl's Head Park @ 11:30 - 12:45
  • FREE - Chess Club @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Kids Create @ Dyker Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Chess Workshop @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Teen Tech Time @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 6 - 7

FRIDAY, MARCH 22:
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • FREE - Mandarin Storytime @ McKinley Park Library @ 10:30 - 11:30
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2 - 3
  • FREE - Makerbot DIY @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3:30 - 5
  • FREE - Game On! @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Tot Shabbat @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 5:30 - 6:30
  • Annie (Ridge Chorale Production) @ Our Lady of Angels Auditorium @ 8
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SATURDAY, MARCH 23:
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ McKinley Park Library @ 10 - 10:30
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime! @ Sunset Park Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • FREE - WonderSpark Puppets @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Dyker Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Sunset Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • Mommy/Daddy & Me Little Brushes @ Pinot's Palette @ 12 - 2
  • Pet Adoption Event @ Vinny's Pet Shop @ 12 - 4
  • FREE - Family DJ Dance Party - Music of Bob Marley for Kids @ 274 36th St @ 12:30​​​
  • ​Roll-A-Rama Family Skate @ Industry City @ 1 - 4
  • FREE - Build with Duplo @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Little Scientists @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • Annie (Ridge Chorale Production) @ Our Lady of Angels Auditorium @ 2
  • FREE - Arabic Storytime @ Bay Ridge Library @ 2 - 3
  • FREE - Coloring for kids @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 3 - 3:45
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime: Cantonese Storytime @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Build with Lego @ Sunset Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • Parents Survival Night Drop Off @ The Little Gym @ 5 - 8
  • Annie (Ridge Chorale Production) @ Our Lady of Angels Auditorium @ 8
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Get 10% off Pip's Island tickets with code PIM10
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SUNDAY, MARCH 24:
  • ​​Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 9:30 - 11​​
  • Yoga for Ages 3 - 9 @ Sensory Freeway @ 10:30 - 11:15
  • Little Leprechauns Fun Run @ Wicked Monk - Kettle Black @ 10:45 (reg), 11:30 (start)
  • ​FREE - St. Patrick's Day Parade (in loving memory of Sweet Sally Sunshine) @ 1 @ 3rd Ave
  • Annie (Ridge Chorale Production) @ Our Lady of Angels Auditorium @ 2
  • Chess at 3: Story Time Chess @ Industry City @ 12:30 - 4
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MONDAY, MARCH 25:
  • FREE - DIscovery Table @ McKinley Park Library @ 10 - 11
  • FREE - Tinkergarten Trial Class @ Shore Road Park (79th St.) @ 10 - 11:15
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • FREE - Mandarin Chinese Storytime 普通話故事時間 @ Dyker Library @ 10:30 - 11:30
  • Dr. Alex & Friends Singalong @ Cocoa Grinder (9504 4th Ave) @ 11 - 11:45
  • FREE - First Five Years Kids Create @ McKinley Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Game On! @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Family Movie: Moana @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 5:30
  • FREE - Kids Create: Bay Ridge Rocks @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Chess Master @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5

TUESDAY, MARCH 26:
  • FREE - StoryPlay @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 & 11
  • Open Play BRBM Special @ Play Days & Parties @ 10:30 - 12:30
  • FREE - Chess Club @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4:30
  • BYOBaby Play Date @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 3:30 - 5​​​​​
  • FREE - Chess for Kids @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - DIY for Teens @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - After School Stories @ Sunset Park Library @ 4:30 - 5:30
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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 27:
  • FREE - Tinkergarten Trial Class @ Owl's Head Park @ 10 - 11:15
  • Lavender Blues @ Dimensions on Stage @ 10 - 10:40​​​​​
  • 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 - Toddler Time @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11:30 - 12
  • FREE - La Hora Mágica de los Pequeños @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Game On! @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Build with LEGO @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Movies @ the Library: The Hate U Give @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 5:30
  • FREE - Culture Pass Programs: CIVICKIDS Identity @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 5:30
  • FREE - Library Lab @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Yoga for Ages 3 - 9 @ Sensory Freeway @ 5:30 - 6:15
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How to Decorate Easter Eggs without Mess: EggMazing Review

3/18/2019

45 Comments

 
How to Decorate Easter Eggs without Mess - Eggmazing Review & GIVEAWAY by US Japan Fam
At the 2018 Toy Fair New York (click for my highlights video) I stumbled across the EggMazing Egg Decorator and was totally blown away. It's basically a cute little machine that spins the egg while you hold the marker, creating a unique design every time. I regrettably didn't try it out myself, but last month at the 2019 Toy Fair New York (see my blog post & video here), I ran across their table again and they had added a new product, the TreeMendous Christmas Tree Ornament Decorator, which allows you the same fun, unique, and mess-free decorating but this time for round Christmas tree ornaments (that come with the kit)!

**edited to add at the 2020 New York Toy Fair (watch that video here) we discovered their DinoMazing decorating kit (with tiny dinosaurs and slime inside the eggs that crack open - OMG so cool!! video/review linked at bottom of this post)
How to Decorate Easter Eggs without Mess - EggMazing Review & GIVEAWAY by US Japan Fam
So, as a blogger does, I reached out and they sent us BOTH products to review! Watch our demo video to see how easy and mess-free it is to decorate Easter Eggs with EggMazing Easter Egg Decorating Kit, even for our 3 year old twins!!
The EggMazing kit is incredibly easy and quick to set up - you just need 4 AA batteries and some eggs. I googled and found this recipe produced perfectly hard boiled eggs:
  • put eggs in a pot, bring to a boil
  • remove pot from heat
  • cover for 15 minutes
  • transfer to cold water (to stop the cooking process)
  • keep in fridge except for when you're decorating

The 8 markers included in the kit are non-toxic and certified lead free, so as long as you handle the eggs safely and don't have them out of the fridge too long, eat away! After ours were beautifully decorated, I actually got my kids to eat hard boiled eggs for the first time in their lives! HA! Win win!!

Now, it's not 100% mess-free, but pretty close! You are dealing with markers after all, and markers + toddlers = uncertainty. You'll see Mia manages to get a dot of marker on her shirt, and a bit on her fingers (I would expect no less from her). But, compared to the stinky vinegar dye splatter messes we're used to with traditional Easter egg dipping, this was 200% better, and our little ones could actually do this unassisted!  We did have trouble one time with the spinning wheels picking up some of the marker and then transferring that onto our egg. But the instructions have a simple solution, just wipe the wheels clean with rubbing alcohol.
mess-free easter egg decorating with kids - EggMazing review & giveaway by US Japan Fam
So, if you're ready for fun, easy, relatively mess-free Easter egg decorating with kids, the EggMazing kit is a MUST!! You can order your EggMazing kit on eggmazing.com or Amazon (affiliate link), the TreeMendous on eggmazing.com or Amazon (affiliate link), or the DinoMazing on eggmazing.com or Amazon (affiliate link).

Read our reviews of the DinoMazing Dinosaur Egg Decorating Kit (with mini dinosaurs in slime inside the eggs!!) or watch our DinoMazing and Treemendous reviews below!
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2019 Brooklyn Baby & Family Expo - Ticket GIVEAWAY

3/15/2019

5 Comments

 
US Japan Fam's ticket giveaway for 2019 Brooklyn Baby & Family Expo on April 11
The 7th Annual Brooklyn Baby & Family Expo, presented by A Child Grows in Brooklyn, will be held on Thursday, April 11 from 3 - 7:30 PM at 501 Union. At this family-friendly event for expecting parents and parents of young children, you can expect dozens of exhibitors, gifts, raffles, demo classes for young kids, a sing-a-long with a Grammy-winning artist Lucy Kalantari, new baby talks, children's play space, and special experiences for soon-to-be moms (including mocktails & massages!). And we're giving away a ticket to THREE WINNERS (enter the giveaway at the bottom of this post)!!
SCHEDULE:
  • YMCA Story, Song & Shimmy Sample Class (3:15 PM)
  • Building Confident Kids Through Stem, led by Rachel O. Williams co-founder and creator of Paige & Paxton Elementary STEM system (3:20 PM)
  • "Baby Feminists!" Reading & Presentation (3:40 PM)
  • How to Get Your Little One Talking, with Speech Language Pathologist & Feeding Therapist Molly Dresner (4:15 PM)
  • Lucy Kalantari Singalong (4:40 PM)
  • Young Childhood Memory & Cognitive Development, with Dr. Natalie Brito (4:45 PM)
  • New York Kids Club Demo Class (5:15 PM)
  • Cloth Diapering 101, with Liz Turrigiano co-founder of Diaperkind (5:15 PM)
  • Make Room for Baby! 10 Tips for Design & Organize a Small Nursery, with Amanda Wiss launched Urban Clarity (5:45 PM)
  • The Breast Start & Q/A with Jada Shapiro, founder of Boober & Birth Day Presence (6:15)
  • Swaddling Secrets & Newborn Sleep Tips, with Kylee Sallak, founder of Parenting Made Joyful​ (6:45)
TICKETS:
Various ticket options are available, including an all-day all-access ticket ($22), companion ticket ($11.36), after work (delayed entry) ticket ($16.67), family pass ($18.80), and VIP ticket ($102.87).
GIVEAWAY:
3 winners will be chosen - each winner can choose between a single all-day all-access ticket OR 1 family pass. Open to US Residents ages 18 and over, enter to win 1 of 3 tickets in the app below! The more actions you take, the more chances you earn to win! Giveaway ends at 11:59PM EST on Monday, March 25. Winners will have 24 hours to respond with their info to claim their ticket. Good luck and see you at the expo!! ​
a Rafflecopter giveaway
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Bay Ridge Area Kids Events Roundup: March 14 - 20

3/13/2019

1 Comment

 
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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 March 14 - 20, 2019!

​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 deadlines.
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ONGOING:
  • ​Spring Session Learn to Swim Lottery Registration: March 11 - 18 (session March 25 - June 6)
  • ​​Children born in 2015 apply for UPK (Free Pre-Kindergarten), February 4 - March 15
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THURSDAY, MARCH 14:
  • ​Mommy & Me with Miss Darlene @ Play Days & Parties @ 10 - 12​
  • FREE - Babies & Books @ Dyker Library @ 1:15 - 2
  • FREE - Game On! @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Teen Tech Time @ Dyker Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Chess Workshop @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Teen Tech Time @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 6 - 7

FRIDAY, MARCH 15:
  • DEADLINE to apply to UPK (Free Pre-K 4 All) for children born in 2015
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • FREE - Mandarin Storytime @ McKinley Park Library @ 10:30 - 11:30
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2 - 3
  • FREE - Chess Club @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Kids Create: Rainbows and Shrink Film! @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Kids Create @ Dyker Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Game On! Board Games @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Game On! @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Teen Tech Time: Video Games @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Parents Night Out: Woody Woodpecker @ Bounce U @ 6 - 8:30
  • ​FREE - Musical Shabbat @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 6:30 - 8:30

Get 10% off Pip's Island tickets with code PIM10
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SATURDAY, MARCH 16:
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ McKinley Park Library @ 10 - 10:30
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime! @ Sunset Park Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Sunset Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Dyker Library @ 11 - 12
  • "Legendary Llamacorn" Little Brushes @ Pinot's Palette @ 12 - 2
  • FREE - Family DJ Dance Party - Music of Van Morrison for Kids @ 274 36th St @ 12:30​​​
  • FREE - Magician Tyler Schwartz @ Industry City Innovation Alley @ 12:30 - 3:30
  • Roll-A-Rama Family Skate @ Industry City @ 1 - 4
  • FREE - Build with Duplo @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Little Scientists @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Arabic Storytime @ Bay Ridge Library @ 2 - 3
  • FREE - Coloring for kids @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 3 - 3:45
  • FREE - Women's History Concert with Judy Gorman @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime: Cantonese Storytime @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Build with Lego @ Sunset Park Library @ 3 - 4
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SUNDAY, MARCH 17:
  • Happy St. Patrick's Day!! (Bay Ridge parade is NEXT weekend)
  • ​Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 9:30 - 11​​
  • Yoga for Ages 3 - 9 @ Sensory Freeway @ 10:30 - 11:15
  • St. Patrick's Day Brunch @ Fort Hamilton Army Base @ 11 - 2
  • Chess at 3: Story Time Chess @ Industry City @ 12:30 - 4
  • Magical Purim Bash @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 3 - 5
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MONDAY, MARCH 18:
  • Spring Session Learn to Swim Lottery Registration Deadline (swim session: March 25 - June 6)​
  • FREE - DIscovery Table @ McKinley Park Library @ 10 - 11
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • FREE - Mandarin Chinese Storytime 普通話故事時間 @ Dyker Library @ 10:30 - 11:30
  • FREE - First Five Years Kids Create @ McKinley Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • Dr. Alex & Friends Singalong @ Cocoa Grinder (9504 4th Ave) @ 11 - 11:45
  • FREE - Game On! @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Teen Tech Time @ Dyker Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Kids Tech Time: Stop Motion Video @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 4:30 
  • FREE - Chess Master @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5

TUESDAY, MARCH 19:
  • Open Play BRBM Special @ Play Days & Parties @ 10:30 - 12:30
  • FREE - Read and Play @ Sunset Park Library @ 1 - 1:45
  • FREE - Chess Club @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - DIY Tuesdays @ Dyker Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - DIY: Arts and Craft @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • BYOBaby Play Date @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 3:30 - 5​​​​​
  • FREE - Chess for Kids @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - DIY for Teens @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Stuffed Animal Hibernation Celebration @ Sunset Park Library @ 6 - 7
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WEDNESDAY, MARCH 20:
  • Lavender Blues @ Dimensions on Stage @ 10 - 10:40​​​​​
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • FREE - Babies and Books @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 10:30-11
  • FREE - coloring for kids @ Dyker Library @ 10:30 - 12:30
  • FREE - Stomp, Clap & Sing @ Dyker Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Build with DUPLO @ Dyker Library @ 11 & 12
  • FREE - Toddler Time @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11:30 - 12
  • FREE - La Hora Mágica de los Pequeños @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Game On! @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Build with LEGO @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Library Lab: Water Filtration @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Kids Create @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Yoga for Ages 3 - 9 @ Sensory Freeway @ 5:30 - 6:15
1 Comment

Pip's Island - An Out of This World Adventure for Kids

3/11/2019

12 Comments

 
This past weekend we were hosted by Pip's Island for a special bloggers' preview of this "immersive theatrical adventure" and can I just say, MIND. BLOWN!!! I was expecting a cute generic children's theater kinda thing, but boy oh boy, was I wrong! Rather than being the audience, your children are actually TAKING PART IN THE ENTIRE SHOW! There is no stage but rather a series of rooms designed so well that you actually feel transported to this other dimension - Pip's Island!
US Japan Fam reviews Pip's Island immersive adventure for children in NYC
The kids are immersed in the adventure right from the start, getting dressed in special explorer vests and digital wrist bands. Led by a park ranger from set to set, meeting other characters, engaging in exciting challenges. The kiddos' care givers join but take a back seat, figuratively and literally, being encouraged to sit back and watch from comfy benches and chairs toward the back of each room. But for the kids, it's never about watching passively. They're engaged in every moment - helping to find gems to open up a hatch, fly a magical ship, crawling through mole hills, decorating cake to feed to a huge monster, and in the end, working as a team to destroy the villain and save the Island.
US Japan Fam reviews Pip's Island immersive adventure for children in NYC
As a parent, I found the entire show captivating. The actors were terrific, the sets were incredibly creative, the dialogue at times downright hilarious. But watching my children's faces as they participated in the adventure was the absolute best thing ever!
US Japan Fam reviews Pip's Island immersive adventure for children in NYC
It is truly a one-of-a-kind experience for both kids and adults. If you are a NYC-area parent, take your kids to Pip's Island, from the bottom of my heart, you will not regret it! Whether it's a birthday treat, weekend adventure, or random after-school splurge, you and your kids will be talking about it for days (or weeks, or longer!).
US Japan Fam reviews Pip's Island immersive adventure for children in NYC
Pip's Island is geared toward kids ages 4 - 10 years. My 3 year old twins thoroughly enjoyed it, though there were a couple of short-lived moments that unnerved them a wee bit, and one of them sat on my lap during the last scene because of the "scary bad guy" haha! There are strobe lights and loud noises, too, but it's very kid-friendly, the actor / guides are great with the kids, and parent(s) are there for reassurance as well. So, take that into consideration, you know your children best!
US Japan Fam reviews Pip's Island immersive adventure for children in NYC
Pip's Island started previews today (March 11)! You can buy tickets for $39 online or $49 at the box office (adults & kids require a ticket, and all children must be accompanied by at least 1 adult parent or guardian). The 60-minute long show runs Wednesdays through Mondays at 400 W. 42nd Street at various times throughout the day.

Don't forget to pop back to this blog post (or @usjapanfam on Facebook/Instagram) to leave a comment after you've seen it and let us know what you thought!!

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12 Comments

Your Child's First Comforter ($150 JoliMoli Giveaway)

3/8/2019

67 Comments

 
US Japan Fam review of Milo & Gabby 3D Animal Blankets & $150 Credit Giveaway to JoliMoli
There are numerous milestones our kids reach, where we just kind of sit back dumbfouded going "Whoa, when did you get so big!?!" Upgrading out little ones' sleeping situations is always a huge one for me. From crib to toddler bed to twin bed, from swaddle to sleep sack to light blanket and now, to comforters!!
We were provided these adorable Milo & Gabby 3D Blankets from jolimoli.com in exchange for review, but don't worry, all thoughts and opinions are my own and completely unbiased. Watch our fun unboxing here, then keep reading and don't forget to enter to win $150 credit on jolimoli.com in the Rafflecopter app at the bottom of this post!!!
Once your toddler is ready for his or her first comforter, there are countless options out there. I have to say, I've never run across one quite as unique and, in a word, ADORABLE, as these Milo & Gabby 3D Animal Blankets.
US Japan Fam review of Milo & Gabby 3D Animal Blankets & $150 Credit Giveaway to JoliMoli
Measuring 39" wide by 51" long, these comforters are the perfect size for a toddler bed, but as you can see they also work just fine on a twin or even a crib mattress! Our 6 year old graduated to his Ikea Kura twin bunk bed a year ago (see our blog post about the best products for bunk beds here), and while this blanket doesn't go all the way to the end, it's definitely big enough for him to use for a few more years! And he couldn't be more in love with the Tiger he picked out - it even has paws and a tail!!
US Japan Fam review of Milo & Gabby 3D Animal Blankets & $150 Credit Giveaway to JoliMoli
Of course my 3 year old girls picked out the pink bunny design, which is super cute. They also have a blue dinosaur (I kinda feel sad none of my kids picked him, poor guy, no offense, you rock, too!). I love how simply designed they are - you could potentially have all 3 designs in one room and it would totally work because the colors are bold and basic, cheerful and childish without being over the top or babyish.
US Japan Fam review of Milo & Gabby 3D Animal Blankets & $150 Credit Giveaway to JoliMoli
Each blanket comes with an attached mini stuffed animal, which is such an unexpected and sweet bonus! The shell is 100% cotton, with polyester fiber, and they are MACHINE WASHABLE!! YES!!! Machine wash cold, tumble dry low, good as new!!
The Milo & Gabby 3D Animal Blankets retail for $158 a piece over on jolimoli.com, so if you win the $150 credit giveaway, you could get one nearly for free!! But they have TONS of other great stuff to choose from, too! We're talking 3D Animal Pillowcases ($38), Animal Shaped Backpacks ($38), and other great items for baby through big kid from Innobaby, Kinderspel, Milo & Gabby, Aquaheat, Dono&Dono, Little Fennec,  Ecleve, Botanical Therapy, Clarmiel, Sage Pole, and Spike.
ENTER TO WIN $150 to JOLIMOLI.COM IN THE APP BELOW:
The more actions you take, the more chances you earn to win!! Open to US Residents ages 18 and over. Good luck!!!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
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    About Me ^_^

    I'm a NYC metro area mom blogger living in NJ with my Japanese husband & our 3 kids (twins plus 1).  This blog is chock full of product reviews, family travel guides, and giveaways galore! It's also home to Bay Ridge Families, and several guides focused on kid-friendly activities and guides to South Brooklyn, Hudson Valley, and New Jersey, as well as family-friendly destinations beyond the NYC area (check the menu bar!)

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