US Japan Fam
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Bay Ridge Area Kids Events Roundup: August 1 - 9

7/30/2019

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 August 1 - 9, 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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We'll be publishing our first ever Birthday Party Guide to Bay Ridge and Beyond in a couple of weeks!!! Email us ASAP if interested in advertising, more info here!!

ONGOING:
  • through August 5: Big Bounce Trampoline Park @ Aviator
  • School Supply Drive (various dropoff locations)
  • July 29 until further notice (a few weeks) - Play Days and Playdates will be closed except for Thursday Mommy & Me while owner recovers from surgery.
  • July 26 - 28 & Aug 2 - 4: Big Bounce America's Trampoline Park @ Aviator
  • Bay Ridge Families' Summer Bucket List
  • Family Friendly Day Trips, Weekend Getaways, Nearby Pools / Splash pads / Sprinklers
  • ​2019-2020 NYC Public School Calendar is up - see it here​ (School starts Sept 5)
  • ​(June 27 - August 30) Free summer meals! Free breakfast and lunch for all children under 18. See locations and times here.
  • (June 27 - Sept 8) NYC Public Pools open 11 - 7 (see nearest pools and sprinklers here!)
  • Moms with kid(s) in tow receive a free juice or smoothie with purchase of a meal @ Cocoa Grinder (9504 4th Ave), Tuesdays/Thursdays/Sundays @ 10am-6pm
  • (Saturdays 8 - 3 thru Nov 23) ​Bay Ridge Greenmarket @ Walgreen's Parking Lot (9408 3rd Ave)
  • (Sundays 9 - 4 thru Nov 24) Bensonhurst Greenmarket @ Milestone Park (18th Ave, 81-82nd St)
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OUR CURRENT GIVEAWAYS!!
  • Enter to win a 1 one night stay (up to 4 guests) at all-inclusive Pine Ridge Dude Ranch, 90 minutes from NYC!!!
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  • Enter to win a FUN BOX (40 snacks) from Variety Fun!
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THURSDAY, AUGUST 1:
  • Mommy & Me with Miss Darlene @ Play Days & Parties @ 10 - 12​
  • FREE - Kids Create: Arts and Crafts @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • FREE - Teen Tech Time @ McKinley Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Dungeons and Dragons @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Teen Anime Club @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • ​Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults ($10) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 6 - 7
FRIDAY, AUGUST 2:
  • FREE - StoryPlay @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11 - 11:45
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11 - 12
  • "Jelly Friend" Little Brushes @ Pinot's Palette @ 12 - 2
  • FREE - Chess Club @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Library Lab: Slime & Oobleck @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Kids Create @ Dyker Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Annual Ice Cream Social Open House (pre-reg required) @ The Little Gym @ 5 - 7
  • FREE - Summer Stroll on 3rd @ 80th - 90th Streets @ 5 - 10:30
  • Parents Night Out: Hercules @ Bounce U @ 6 - 8:30
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SATURDAY, AUGUST 3:
  • Changing Seasons Kids Yoga (ages 5-11, $15) @ Young Love NYC @ 10 - 10:45
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime! @ Sunset Park Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ McKinley Park Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Dyker Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Sunset Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - FREE SHSAT Prep Class @ McKinley Park Library @ 11:30 - 2:30
  • ​​FREE - Family DJ Dance Party - Afrobeat for Kids @ 238 36th St @ 12:30​​ - 2
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2:30 - 3
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 3 - 3:45
SUNDAY, AUGUST 4:
  • FREE - Yoga in the Park @ Shore Road Park (79th) @ 9:30 - 10:45
  • ​Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults ($10) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 9:30 - 11
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MONDAY, AUGUST 5:
  • FREE - Discovery Table @ McKinley Park Library @ 10 - 11
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • FREE - First Five Years Kids Create @ McKinley Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Teen Writing Club @ Dyker Library @ 11:30 - 12:30
  • FREE - Chess Club @ Bay Ridge Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • FREE - Kids Tech Time: 3-D Printing @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • FREE - Movies @ the Library: Toy Story 3 (PG) @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4
  • ​Storytime Mondays @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Book Adventures @ McKinley Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Chess Club @ McKinely Park Library @ 4 - 5
TUESDAY, AUGUST 6:
  • **cancelled** ​Open Play BRBM Special ($5) @ Play Days & Parties​ @ 10:30 - 12:30
  • FREE - StoryPlay @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 & 11
  • Lavender Blues ($10) @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - NYC Department of Social Services Information Table @ Bay Ridge Library @ 1 - 3
  • Dr. Alex & Friends Singalong ($10) @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Chess Workshop @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2 - 3:30
  • FREE - Chess Club @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Teen Manga Club @ McKinley Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • BYOBaby Play Date ($5) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center​​​​​ @ 3:30 - 5
  • **cancelled** Changing Seasons Kids Yoga (ages 3-5, $12) @ Young Love NYC @ 5:30 - 6
  • FREE - National Night Out Against Crime @ Shore Rd Park (79th) @ 6 - 9
  • **cancelled** Changing Seasons Kids Yoga (ages 5-10, $15) @ Young Love NYC @ 6:15 - 7
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WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 7:
  • Lavender Blues ($20) @ 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 - Build with DUPLO @ Dyker Library @ 11 & 12
  • Tic Toc Spanish ($10) @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 11:45
  • FREE - Toddler Time @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11:30 - 12
  • FREE - Family Movie: Astro Boy @ McKinley Park Library @ 1 - 3
  • FREE - La Hora Mágica de los Pequeños @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Teen Time: Space Crafts @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • FREE - Build with LEGO @ Bay Ridge Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • FREE - Build with LEGO @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • FREE - Build with LEGO @ McKinley Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • **cancelled** Changing Seasons Kids Yoga (ages 3-8, $15) @ Young Love NYC @ 5:30 - 6:15​
  • FREE - Yoga in the Park @ Owl's Head Park @ 6:30 - 8
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THURSDAY, AUGUST 8:
  • Mommy & Me with Miss Darlene @ Play Days & Parties @ 10 - 12​
  • The Dough Project @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 12
  • "Pandastic Days" Little Brushes @ Pinot's Palette @ 12 - 2
  • FREE - Babies & Books @ Dyker Library @ 2:15 - 3
  • FREE - Kids Create: Arts and Crafts @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • FREE - Teen Tech Time @ McKinley Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Dungeons and Dragons @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Teen Anime Club @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • ​Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults ($10) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 6 - 7
FRIDAY, AUGUST 9:
  • FREE - Team Up To Read: Be Curious @ Dyker Library @ 11 - 11:45
  • FREE - StoryPlay @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11 - 11:45
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Chess Club @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Library Lab @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Kids Create @ Dyker Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - LAST Summer Stroll on 3rd of the season @ 68th - 80th St @ 5 - 10:30
  • FREE - Bay Ridge Rocks Painting @ Cocoa Grinder (6823 3rd Ave) @ 6 - 9
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Wonderfold Stroller Wagon Review + Discount Code

7/28/2019

25 Comments

 
US Japan Fam reviews Wonderfold Stroller Wagon
Disclaimer: We received this wagon free in exchange for review, and this post includes affiliate links - you don't pay more but we'll receive a small commission from purchases made after clicking. All thoughts an opinions are our own :)
Whether you have children still using a stroller, or bigger kids like mine, I can't think of a more flexible option than a stroller wagon. What is a stroller wagon, you ask? It's basically a wagon, with padding and seat belts, so it functions as both a wagon and a stroller. We were just provided with the W1 2-seater stroller wagon by Wonderfold in exchange for our review, and I am honestly loving it!! It's more compact than our current tandem stroller, which means it takes up less space in our apartment's entryway, which is a win of its own!! Watch our demo video and keep reading for more of the functions this stroller wagon can offer your family!
Wonderfold makes a few models, including the X series (with models for 2 or 4 kids) which has a push and pull option, and the W series with push only. W2 (for 2 kids) and W4 (for 4 kids, great for triplets and quads!), both of these include seats that are elevated, meaning their feet hang and you have storage space below them. The seats, however, have a 33 pound maximum. Since my kids are all at or above that weight limit, we went for the W1 model, which has a 180 pound maximum for the entire wagon (33 pound, 40" limit to use the harnesses, which we don't really need anyway). Many functions apply to all Wonderfold stroller wagons, but this review will be focused on the W1, since that's what we have!
US Japan Fam reviews Wonderfold Stroller Wagon
Retailing for just over $200, the W1 Stroller Wagon by Wonderfold is the most budget-friendly of their wagons and comes in three beautiful colors: cobalt violet, fuschia pink, and teal green.
US Japan Fam reviews Wonderfold Stroller Wagon W1 Color Options

THE ASSEMBLY:
The wagon does require assebly, but it's minimal and if I (who fails at even the most basic Ikea assembly) can do it, anyone can!! The wheels snap right on, as does the brake axle and canopy. The handlebar has to be aligned carefully and screwed together, but it's quite easy, so don't worry! Within 5 minutes (10 if you have to hunt down a screw driver or a coin; they do provide you with a hex tool to help you get the lug nut cap kinda thing on - I'm not technical, sorry!!), you'll have it ready to go!
US Japan Fam reviews Wonderfold Stroller Wagon - easy to assemble

THE FEATURES:
  • Easy folding & one-step unfolding: you just unhook one lever and pull up to fold (self-standing) and push down in the center to unfold - really easy, watch my demo video above to see the fold and unfold in action.
US Japan Fam reviews Wonderfold Stroller Wagon - one step unfold and easy fold!
  • Double seat with 5-point harness: great for twins or siblings. They probably don't recommend using without the harness, and the manual says don't use with more than 2 kids, but I'll just say that we've been using it with our 2 to 3 unharnessed kids and so far so good. Though with 3.5 year old twins and our 6.5 year old, it is cramped, especially with park bags piled on top of them LOL! But, it's very stable, short and not tippy at all.
US Japan Fam reviews Wonderfold Stroller Wagon - two 5-point harness seats
  • 180 Pound Weight Limit: I've even gotten in it myself, see that in my "8 ways to use your wagon" video!
US Japan Fam reviews Wonderfold Stroller Wagon - 180 pound weight limit, great for cargo!
  • Adjustable and removable canopy: I didn't even realize it was adjustable til a few days into using it, but it's true - you can slide the material depending on the angle of the sun! Very cool! The canopy has 4 poles that simply slide (snugly) in and out, so it's quick and easy to take off and put on. When not in use, you can squish it together and store it in 2 pockets near the handlebar!
US Japan Fam reviews Wagonfold W1 Stroller Wagon - adjustable & removable canopy
  • Adjustable push handle: the handle telescopes up and down just like many stroller handles, and has a nice comfy cover zippered on it. I'm 5'8" and it's plenty tall for me, because it's adjustable, I think just about anyone can push it (even my 3.5 year old pushes it in our demo video haha!!)
  • Storage pockets on front, sides, and rear: this helps make up for the fact that you lose storage space when the wagon is filled with kids. The large pocket under the handlebar is especially great for throwing your phone, wallet, keys, and sunglasses in! The kids can access the side pockets on the outside if needed, which is nice.
US Japan Fam reviews Wagonfold W1 Stroller Wagon - many storage pockets
  • One step foot brake: The brake is easy to use, even with flip flops, however its placement makes it difficult to hoist it up over curbs. I worry about putting all that hoisting power into the handle alone, so I choose my path based on where I know there is a sidewalk curb cutout or driveway, or I go to the front and pull the wagon up and over that way.
  • Accessories: for the W1 model, they sell separately a snack tray with cup holders, a parent console / cup holder for the handle bar, and an insulated cooler bag. They recently came out with an all-weather cover, before that we came up with our own by strategically cutting out a PEVA-free shower curtain and securing it on the corners with snack clips!
US Japan Fam reviews Wonderfold Wagon - cheap rain cover hack

MY REVIEW:
We are LOVING our wagon, like looooooooving it! It's so much more practical than our strollers, because it can hold the kids as well as so much stuff! I can load it with way more groceries than our stroller baskets could handle (I don't have a car so it's either go daily and buy what I can carry, or pay more to have it delivered). I'm also very excited to have it carry my 3 kids' park stuff, because let's face it, they love their scooters but after 5-10 minutes I end up having to carry 3 scooters and 3 helmets, not to mention a backpack full of 4 water bottles and snacks and ughhhhhh! It's also going to be very helpful when school starts, to carry 3 backpacks, and perhaps tired Pre-Kindergarteners home. My twins currently still require reclining stroller seats to take their naps, but starting September they'll be in school full day and take their naps there.

​So, goodbye stroller and HELLO WONDERFOLD WAGON!! Thrilled to have this guy join our family for the next many years!! It has a great push, even better than our tandem, probably because it's a bit shorter. Nice big wheels (did well on the grass at the park), no road vibrations in the handle (which is a deal breaker for me that I've noticed in some strollers). So far, my only remotely negative things are: no rain cover, small sun shade (extendable down to the wagon on all 4 sides would be awesome), and brake placement makes it difficult to get up over curbs and also my toes graze it ever so slightly if I'm in a hustle with extra long strides. But none of these outweigh the positive aspects, not by a long shot. It's just an all around amazing product! ​

8 Ways to Use Your Wagon:

So, what do you think!? Do you have a wagon, or are you looking forward to using one after your kids' stroller nap days are over? Leave a comment below!! 

You can shop Wonderfold Wagons at https://www.wonderfoldwagon.com and Amazon!
25 Comments

Family Vacation at Pine Ridge Dude Ranch in the Catskills - Review & 1-Night Stay GIVEAWAY

7/27/2019

31 Comments

 
US Japan Fam's review of Pine Ridge Dude Ranch Family-Friendly All-Inclusive Resort - WIN 1 night stay!!
If you have a city slicker family like mine, you like to get away every once in a while and let your kids experience different environments, am I right!? For your next family vacation, I highly recommend the uber family-friendly Pine Ridge Dude Ranch all-inclusive resort in the foothills of the Catskill Mountains, named one of the top 10 family resorts in the USA, just a quick and easy 2.5 hour drive from NYC! Watch our highlights video and keep reading for more details about what you can expect, and don't forget to enter my GIVEAWAY at the bottom for your chance to win 1 night at Pine Ridge Dude Ranch, named the #1 East Coast Dude Ranch!

Disclaimer: We were provided a complimentary stay in exchange for our review, but as always, all thoughts and opinions are my own and complete unbiased!

THE ACTIVITIES:
Most activities are complimentary, including indoor and outdoor pools with water slides (no kiddie pools unfortunately), bounce pillow (my husband's favorite), playground, petting zoo (my son's favorite), rock wall, archery (watch the video, I was worse than my 3.5 year olds, yikes!!),  tractor rides, paddle boats, sports and board games, after-dinner activity (like meeting a new baby animal or feeding horses), marshmallow roasting at the campfire, and nightly entertainment like magicians and comedians (though it starts at 9pm which was just too late for my kiddos), and really fun activities led by the social director throughout the day (things like line dancing, inflatable horse races, and water balloon battles).

Most packages also include a trail ride (ages 8+) and daily pony ride for younger kids, and extra experiences can be purchased such as private riding lessons, "own a horse for the day", hands on barn experiences, and more. If you need some kid-free time, they do have a half day camp for kids ages 3-10, which is extra ($35 for 1 kid, $55 for 2 kids, $70 for 3 kids). Other extras include the arcade, lasertag ($10/person), paintball ($35/person), and massage.
US Japan Fam reviews family-friendly all-inclusive Pine Ridge Dude Ranch in the Catskills
THE FACILITIES:
The ranch is well themed - very rustic with Western decor to the max! All staff were outfitted in flannel shirts and cowboy hats (and all were incredibly friendly and helpful!), most guests wore cowboy boots, it was kitsch in the best way! We were provided a large room in the Dakota wing that included a king bed, XL full bed, and bunk bed (which my kids went nuts for!). It was spacious, even with luggage, a stroller, and one of their cribs you still wouldn't feel cramped. It was also nice and quiet, which I find to be hit or miss at hotels - I always bring ear plugs but was pleasantly surprised to not need them at the ranch! The grounds were large with lots of greenery, but never more than a 5 minute walk between activities.
US Japan Fam reviews family-friendly all-inclusive Pine Ridge Dude Ranch in the Catskills
THE FOOD:
The food at Pine Ridge was SO GOOD!!! Check-in is at 2pm so your first included meal is dinner, from 6-7PM, which always includes a salad bar and a few entrees to choose from, as well as dessert (jello, ice cream, and a pie or cake). Breakfast, from 8-9:30AM, is buffet style with delicious hot treats such as eggs, bacon, pancakes with fruit topping, selection of cereals and oatmeal, fruit and yogurt bar, and pastries. Lunch varied, from 12:30-1:30PM, sometimes buffet style in the dining room and sometimes outdoor BBQ, and is your last meal on check-out day. They also have some food and beverage options that aren't included: alcohol in the dining room or at other bars, a Starbucks kiosk, poolside bar, and Chuckwagon Grill & Snackbar (open from 2pm). That said, we found eating their 3 meals a day was plenty and we didn't need to purchase extra.
US Japan Fam reviews family-friendly all-inclusive Pine Ridge Dude Ranch in the Catskills
DEALS & RATES:
Pine Ridge Dude Ranch by nature, as an all-inclusive resort, is not cheap vacation, but it's also not as expensive as you might think. Rates in summer go for as low as $209 per adult per night ($69 - $99 per child), and just $149 per adult per night in September! You can find some great deals on their website here, for example 50% off your 3rd night, 10% off for military and first responders. And don't forget, pretty much everything is included (except for tips), so when you calculate that, as well as not having to pay for air fare to an all-inclusive in the Caribbean let's say, it really is a great bang for your buckaroo!! They also have day passes if you live nearby or are staying elsewhere. These are $40 per adult, $20 per child, and include lunch, a pony ride per child, indoor / outdoor pools, tractor rides, bounce pillow, petting zoo, basketball, tennis, bocce, shuffleboard, and more. An extra $25 per trail ride.
THE GIVEAWAY:
Enter for your chance to win a one-night stay for 4 people in the Rafflecopter box below! Open to US residents ages 18+. The more actions you take, the more chances to win you will accumulate. GOOD LUCK!
a Rafflecopter giveaway
31 Comments

Bay Ridge Area Kids Events Roundup: July 25 - 31

7/21/2019

20 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 July 25 - 31, 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:
  • July 29 until further notice (a few weeks) - Play Days and Playdates will be closed except for Thursday Mommy & Me while owner recovers from surgery.
  • July 26 - 28 & Aug 2 - 4: Big Bounce America's Trampoline Park @ Aviator
  • Bay Ridge Families' Summer Bucket List
  • Family Friendly Day Trips, Weekend Getaways, Nearby Pools / Splash pads / Sprinklers
  • ​2019-2020 NYC Public School Calendar is up - see it here​ (School starts Sept 5)
  • ​(June 27 - August 30) Free summer meals! Free breakfast and lunch for all children under 18. See locations and times here.
  • (June 27 - Sept 8) NYC Public Pools open 11 - 7 (see nearest pools and sprinklers here!)
  • Moms with kid(s) in tow receive a free juice or smoothie with purchase of a meal @ Cocoa Grinder (9504 4th Ave), Tuesdays/Thursdays/Sundays @ 10am-6pm
  • (Saturdays 8 - 3 thru Nov 23) ​Bay Ridge Greenmarket @ Walgreen's Parking Lot (9408 3rd Ave)
  • (Sundays 9 - 4 thru Nov 24) Bensonhurst Greenmarket @ Milestone Park (18th Ave, 81-82nd St)
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THURSDAY, JULY 25:
  • FREE - Coloring @ Sunset Park Library @ 10 - 11
  • Mommy & Me with Miss Darlene @ Play Days & Parties @ 10 - 12​
  • FREE - Game On! @ Sunset Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • "Ocean Adventure" Little Brushes @ Pinot's Palette @ 12 - 2
  • FREE - Kids Explore: Volunteers for Wildlife Presents "Radical Reptiles" @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2 - 3
  • FREE - Team Up To Read: Interactive Storytelling @ Sunset Park Library @ 2 - 3
  • ​FREE - Babies & Books @ Dyker Library @ 2:15 - 3
  • FREE - Teen Tech Time @ Dyker Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Game On! PS4 @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Teen Tech Time @ McKinley Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Dungeons and Dragons @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Teen Anime Club @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • ​Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults ($10) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 6 - 7
    FREE - Movies Under the Stars: Pretty Woman @ John Paul Jones Park @ 8:45 - 10:45
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FRIDAY, JULY 26:
  • FREE - Coloring @ Sunset Park Library @ 10 - 11
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • FREE - Team Up To Read: Interactive Storytelling @ Dyker Library @ 11 - 11:45
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Game On! @ Sunset Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Game On! @ McKinley Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • ​FREE - Kids Create @ Dyker Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Fun on 5th @ 5th Ave from 71-81st Streets @ 5 - 10
  • FREE - Yoga in the Park @ Owl's Head Park @ 6:30 - 8
  • FREE - Magician in Residence: Tyler Schwartz @ Industry City @ 6:30 - 9:30
  • FREE - Outdoor Cinema: Vertigo @ Narrows Botanical Garden @ 8:45
SATURDAY, JULY 27:
  • Changing Seasons Kids Yoga (ages 5-11, $15) @ Young Love NYC @ 10 - 10:45
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime! @ Sunset Park Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ McKinley Park Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Dyker Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Sunset Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - WonderSpark Puppets @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 12
  • FREE -  FREE SHSAT Prep Class @ McKinley Park Library @ 11:30 - 2:30
  • "Summer Emojis" Little Brushes @ Pinot's Palette @ 12 - 2
  • FREE - Party in the Park @ Owl's Head Park @ 12 - 4
  • FREE - BAT Summer Concert Series: A Day of Disco w/ Love Train @ 140 58th St @ 12 - 5
  • ​​FREE - Family DJ Dance Party - Music of Billy Joel for Kids @ 238 36th St @ 12:30​​ - 2
  • FREE - Chess at 3 Storytime @ Industry City @ 1 - 5 (on the hour)
  • FREE - Little Scientists @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Build with Duplo @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2:30 - 3
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 3 - 3:45
  • FREE - Build with Lego @ Sunset Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Movies Under the Stars: X Men Apocalypse @ Owl's Head Park @ 8 - 10
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SUNDAY, JULY 28:
  • FREE - DHAA Knights Girls Softball Clinic @ Bay 8th Field at Poly Place @ 9 - 10:30
  • FREE - Chess at 3 Storytime @ Industry City @ 1 - 5 (on the hour)
MONDAY, JULY 29:
  • Deadline for Session 3 free NYC Learn to Swim Lottery Registration (swim session Aug 7 - 20) 
  • FREE - Coloring @ Sunset Park Library @ 10 - 11
  • FREE - Discovery Table @ McKinley Park Library @ 10 - 11
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • FREE - Game On! @ Sunset Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - First Five Years Kids Create @ McKinley Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Teen Writing Club @ Dyker Library @ 11:30 - 12:30
  • FREE - Library Lab @ Sunset Park Library @ 2 - 3
  • FREE - Chess Club @ Bay Ridge Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • FREE - Kids Tech Time: Video Games @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • ​Storytime Mondays @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Book Adventures @ McKinley Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Origami @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Chess Club @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
TUESDAY, JULY 30:
  • FREE - StoryPlay @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 & 11
  • FREE - Coloring @ Sunset Park Library @ 10 - 11
  • **cancelled** ​Open Play BRBM Special ($5) @ Play Days & Parties​ @ 10:30 - 12:30
  • Lavender Blues ($10) @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Game On! @ Sunset Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Read and Play @ Sunset Park Library @ 1 - 1:45
  • Dr. Alex & Friends Singalong ($10) @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Teen Time @ Sunset Park Library @ 2 - 3
  • FREE - Chess Workshop @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2 - 3:30
  • ​FREE - Chess Club @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - DIY for Teens @ McKinley Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • BYOBaby Play Date ($5) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center​​​​​ @ 3:30 - 5
  • FREE - After School Stories @ Sunset Park Library @ 4:30 - 5:30
  • Changing Seasons Kids Yoga (ages 3-5, $12) @ Young Love NYC @ 5:30 - 6
  • Changing Seasons Kids Yoga (ages 5-10, $15) @ Young Love NYC @ 6:15 - 7
  • FREE - Concerts in the Park: Radio Daze @ Shore Road Park (79th) @ 7 - 9:30
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WEDNESDAY, JULY 31:
  • Lavender Blues ($20) @ Dimensions on Stage @ 10 - 10:40​​​​​
  • FREE - Coloring @ Sunset Park Library @ 10 - 11
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • FREE - Babies and Books @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • Tic Toc Spanish ($10) @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 11:45
  • FREE - Game On! @ Sunset Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Toddler Time @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11:30 - 12
  • "Sandy Adventure" Little Brushes @ Pinot's Palette @ 12 - 2
  • FREE - Family Movie: Home @ McKinley Park Library @ 1 - 3
  • FREE - La Hora Mágica de los Pequeños @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Build with LEGO @ Bay Ridge Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • FREE - Kids Explore: The Children's Museum of Manhattan Presents Diggin' Dinos @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • FREE - Teen Time: Dungeons & Dragons @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - DIY: Arts and Craft @ Sunset Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Kids Create @ McKinley Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • Changing Seasons Kids Yoga (ages 3-8, $15) @ Young Love NYC @ 5:30 - 6:15
20 Comments

How to Choose a Pediatrician

7/20/2019

11 Comments

 
Whether you're pregnant and looking for your baby's first pediatrician, or you recently moved and are looking for a new pediatrician for your brood, it's not a simple task. You don't just look on the map and choose the nearest doctor. Oh no. There are a bazillion things to consider, and I hope my list will help you find the perfect match for your family! If I missed any key points, please do comment and let me know so I can add them!!
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Actions to take when seeking out a Pediatrician:
  • search online for reviews - check yelp, local Facebook parenting groups, etc
  • come up with a list of possibilities and schedule a consultation with each practice (most offer this free of charge, some even have meet & greet events)
  • come up with a list of "must", "ideal", and "not important" items (our list below can help you narrow it down)
  • go ahead and also look for an urgent care who accepts or even specializes in children, but realize you need a PRIMARY pediatrician for well and regular hour sick visits, and to keep track of their development.


Policies and Factors to Consider:
  • Proximity - How far is their office from you? Is it easily accessible on foot or by public transportation when you have a stroller with you? If you'll be driving, do they have parking available?
  • Insurance - Obviously you'll want to make sure they take your insurance! If you don't have insurance, find out what kind of payment options they have.
  • Access to Second Opinion - is there more than one doctor in the office at a time, allowing for a quick consultation amongst doctors, or a second opinion on an urgent matter?
  • Vaccines - Some practices follow the American Academy of Pediatrics (APA) Vaccine Schedule strictly, others allow for spacing vaccines out (without delaying them), and others allow delaying or skipping some/all vaccines. (Important note: It is very important for the health of your child, your family, and the community at large to fully vaccinate every child and adult, on time. Some cannot be vaccinated due to serious health conditions, and for some vaccinations do not provide full immunity, which is why it's SO SO SO important for the rest of us to be vaccinated. PLEASE do not take this lightly!!!)
  • Antibiotics - Newer thought is that antibiotics aren't needed in some conditions they were previously automatically prescribed for, and overuse can cause more harm than good for that individual (gut health) and the community (antibiotic resistant bacteria). Each doctor and practice will have a slightly different stance on this, and it's worth considering - how do they handle ear infections, for example - automatic antibiotics or wait and see policy.
  • Waiting Rooms - do they separate well and sick patients into separate waiting rooms, or separate appointment times? How do they clean the rooms, waiting areas and toys?
  • Office Hours - are they "working parent friendly" with hours available on evenings and weekends?
  • After Hours Access - Can you call a doctor or nurse with an urgent question? Can you text a photo for advice? Do they use a answering service where you leave a message and a doctor calls you back?
  • Flu Testing - Some practices do not test for flu, they simply treat it as any viral infection - stay home, rest, hydrate. If you go to one of these practices and want to know if your child has the flu,  you'll have to take them to Urgent Care to be tested. This is a deal breaker for some families, and no biggie for others.
  • Blood Work and other Testing - Many practices do blood work and other basic tests in-house, and others will require you to make a separate appointment at a lab. 
  • Breastfeeding Support - Do they support breastfeeding or push formula? Do they have a Lactation Consultant in-house?
  • Additional Services - Do they have any extra offerings for patients? For example, CPR classes, new parent meetups, nutritionist, expertise with children with special needs, support for single parent with multiple children (can a nurse come in to assist)?
  • Access to Records - Do they have an easy-to-use online system where you can fill out forms before an appointment, get text or e-mail reminders for upcoming appointments or the need to schedule one, and see all previous labs and information about your children?
  • Hospital Affiliation - Will your pediatrician have the ability to visit or care for your child if admitted into a hospital?
  • Wait Times - What is their average wait time (ask the practice and word of mouth from others who use them)?
  • Office Staff & Paperwork - What is the response time when calling the office or requesting forms (for school, camp, work permit, etc)? Do they charge extra for forms or sending records? How friendly and helpful are office staff over the phone, email, and in-office? What is the process for obtaining referrals? How is billing handled?
  • General Vibe - How do you feel about the doctor(s) and office. Is it clean, modern, friendly? Do they answer your many questions without a condescending tone. Do you feel like this is someone you could trust and have open discussions with regarding your child(ren)'s health?
11 Comments

Variety Fun Snack Subscription Unboxing

7/17/2019

16 Comments

 
US Japan Fam unboxes Variety Fun Snack Subscription Box
**Updated 7/29/19: Enter to WIN your own FUN BOX (40 snacks) in the rafflecopter box at the bottom of this post**

Snacks. You can never have enough snacks, am I right!? Our kids go through them like water - snacking in the stroller, in the car, at school, at the park, you get the picture! So we were really excited to work with Variety Fun Snack Subscription on an unboxing!! Their snack boxes are available in bi-weekly and monthly delivery options, and with over 500 variety of snacks, you'll get new stuff every month! Oh yeah, free shipping of course, and cancel your subscription anytime!

​Variety Fun has 2 types of boxes to chose from:
  1. FUN Snack Box, $24.99 for 40 snacks (i.e. 0.62/snack) - classic snacks such as Cheetos, Oreos, M&M cookies, Lays, Doritos, Skittles, and more!
  2. FIT Snack Box, $39.99 for 30 snacks (i.e. $1.33/snack) - healthy premium snacks such as KIND bars, Terra chips, CLIF bars, Krave Jerky, Hippeas, and more!
Watch our fun unboxing below and don't forget to use code FUN20 to get 20% off your 1st box!! And leave us a comment below - what's your favorite snack!?
a Rafflecopter giveaway
16 Comments

Bay Ridge Area Kids Events Roundup: July 18 - 24

7/17/2019

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 July 18 - 24, 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:
  • Bay Ridge Families' Summer Bucket List
  • Family Friendly Day Trips, Weekend Getaways, Nearby Pools / Splash pads / Sprinklers
  • ​2019-2020 NYC Public School Calendar is up - see it here​ (School starts Sept 5)
  • ​(June 27 - August 30) Free summer meals! Free breakfast and lunch for all children under 18. See locations and times here.
  • (June 27 - Sept 8) NYC Public Pools open 11 - 7 (see nearest pools and sprinklers here!)
  • Moms with kid(s) in tow receive a free juice or smoothie with purchase of a meal @ Cocoa Grinder (9504 4th Ave), Tuesdays/Thursdays/Sundays @ 10am-6pm
  • (Saturdays 8 - 3 thru Nov 23) ​Bay Ridge Greenmarket @ Walgreen's Parking Lot (9408 3rd Ave)
  • (Sundays 9 - 4 thru Nov 24) Bensonhurst Greenmarket @ Milestone Park (18th Ave, 81-82nd St)
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THURSDAY, JULY 18:
  • Art Class: Polymer Clay Zebras and Habitats ($30) @ Brooklyn Art House @ 9 - 11
  • Mommy & Me with Miss Darlene @ Play Days & Parties @ 10 - 12​
  • FREE - Puzzle Time @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11 - 1
  • FREE - Read with a Book Buddy @ Dyker Library @ 2 - 3
  • FREE - Team Up To Read: Making Connections @ Sunset Park Library @ 2 - 3
  • FREE - Babies & Books @ Dyker Library @ 2:15 - 3
  • FREE - Why the Sky is Far Away & Other Stories with LuAnn Adams @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • FREE - Karaoke for Kids @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Teen Tech Time @ Dyker Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - BRL: Sunset Park Robotics @ Sunset Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Teen Tech Time @ McKinley Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • Art Class: Still Life’s Inspired by Clementine Hunter ($30) @ Brooklyn Art House @ 3 - 5
  • FREE - Dungeons and Dragons @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Teen Anime Club @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • ​Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults ($10) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 6 - 7
FRIDAY, JULY 19:
  • FREE - Team Up To Read: Making Connections @ Dyker Library @ 11 - 11:45
  • FREE - StoryPlay @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11 - 11:45
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Read with a Book Buddy @ Dyker Library @ 2 - 3
  • FREE - Chess Club @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Paper Circuits @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime: Cantonese Storytime @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Game On! @ McKinley Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • Art Class: Painted Paper Collages Inspired by Yayoi Kusama ($30) @ Brooklyn Art House @ 3 - 5
  • FREE - Kids Create @ Dyker Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Summer Stroll @ 3rd Ave (68th - 80th Streets) @ 5 - 10:30
  • Parents Night Out Drop-Off: LEGO Jurassic Park @ Bounce U @ 6 - 8:30
  • FREE - All Matcha Love Throwdown (Matcha Art Contest) @ Blend @ 7
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SATURDAY, JULY 20:
  • FREE - Statue of Liberty Scenic Harbor Tours @ IKEA Brooklyn @ various times
  • Changing Seasons Kids Yoga (ages 5-11, $15) @ Young Love NYC @ 10 - 10:45
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime! @ Sunset park Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ McKinley 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
  • FREE - FREE SHSAT Prep Class @ McKinley Park Library @ 11:30 - 2:30
  • ​​FREE - Family DJ Dance Party - Music of White Stripes for Kids @ 238 36th St @ 12:30​​ - 2
  • FREE - Chess at 3 Storytime @ Industry City @ 1 - 5 (on the hour)
  • FREE - Little Scientists @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Build with Duplo @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 3 - 3:45
  • FREE - Build with Lego @ Sunset Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • "Mini - Hello Sunshine!" Little Brushes @ Pinot's Palette @ 4 - 6
  • FREE - Movies Under the Stars: Aquaman @ Dyker Beach Park @ 8 - 10
  • FREE - Movies Under the Stars: First Man @ Shore Road Park (79th) @ 8:45 - 10:45
SUNDAY, JULY 21:
  • FREE - Chess at 3 Storytime @ Industry City @ 1 - 5 (on the hour)
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MONDAY, JULY 22:
  • FREE - Discovery Table @ McKinley Park Library @ 10 - 11
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • FREE - First Five Years Kids Create @ McKinley Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Teen Writing Club @ Dyker Library @ 11:30 - 12:30
  • FREE - Read with a Book Buddy @ Dyker Library @ 2 - 3
  • FREE - Kids Create @ Sunset Park Library @ 2 - 3
  • FREE - Chess Club @ Bay Ridge Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • FREE - Kids Tech Time: Little Bits @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • FREE - Movies @ the Library: Into the Spider-Verse @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4:30
  • Storytime Mondays @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Book Adventures @ McKinley Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Origami @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Chess Club @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
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TUESDAY, JULY 23:
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • Foil Robot or Rag Doll Drawing & Materials Project (7/23 & 25, $120) @ Party Spot NYC @ 10 - 1
  • ​Open Play BRBM Special ($5) @ Play Days & Parties​ @ 10:30 - 12:30
  • Lavender Blues ($10) @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Read and Play @ Sunset Park Library @ 1 - 1:45
  • Dr. Alex & Friends Singalong ($10) @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Read with a Book Buddy @ Dyker Library @ 2 - 3
  • FREE - Teen Time @ Sunset Park Library @ 2 - 3
  • FREE - Chess Workshop @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2 - 3:30
  • FREE - Chess Club @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - DIY for Teens @ McKinley Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • BYOBaby Play Date ($5) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center​​​​​ @ 3:30 - 5
  • FREE - After School Stories @ Sunset Park Library @ 4:30 - 5:30
  • Changing Seasons Kids Yoga (ages 3-5, $12) @ Young Love NYC @ 5:30 - 6
  • Changing Seasons Kids Yoga (ages 5-10, $15) @ Young Love NYC @ 6:15 - 7
  • FREE - Summer Concert Series: Head Over Heels @ Shore Road Park (79th) @ 7
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WEDNESDAY, JULY 24:
  • Lavender Blues ($20) @ 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 - Build with DUPLO @ Dyker Library @ 11 & 12
  • Tic Toc Spanish ($10) @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 11:45
  • FREE - Toddler Time @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11:30 - 12
  • FREE - Family Movie: Lilo & Stitch @ McKinley Park Library @ 1 - 3
  • FREE - La Hora Mágica de los Pequeños @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Read with a Book Buddy @ Dyker Library @ 2 - 3
  • FREE - Teen Time: Space Crafts @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • FREE - Build with LEGO @ Bay Ridge Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • FREE - Kids Explore: The Children's Museum of Manhattan Presents Diggin' Dinos @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • FREE - Game On! @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Build with LEGO @ McKinley Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Karaoke for Kids @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • Changing Seasons Kids Yoga (ages 3-8, $15) @ Young Love NYC @ 5:30 - 6:15
  • FREE - FDNY Smart CPR Program @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 6 - 7
  • FREE - Yoga in the Park @ Owl's Head Park @ 6:30 - 8
0 Comments

Lancaster Family Vacation Guide for Summer 2019

7/16/2019

9 Comments

 
We just got back from our 4th Lancaster Family Vacation in 3 years and I simply can't recommend it highly enough as possibly THE BEST quick, easy, fun, and cultural getaway for New York City families! After just a 3 hour drive, you'll find yourself in serene Pennsylvania countryside, surrounded by farmland, Amish horse-drawn buggies, and countless family-friendly activities to choose from. It might feel overwhelming to plan your Lancaster Family Vacation, but we're here to help!! Below are the places we visited this summer and highly recommend for you to add to your agenda! Be sure to scroll through each photo gallery and watch each highlights video to get a better feel of what each place has to offer for both kids and adults! Additional activities and our past years' Lancaster family vacation guides are linked at the bottom of this post, as well.
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Disclaimer: We were provided complimentary tickets in exchange for including most of these places in our guide, but we reached out to them with interest, and all thoughts and opinion are our own and completely unbiased!

RAILROAD MUSEUM OF PA
Whether you have a train-obsessed child in your family or you just enjoy unique hands-on museums, the Railroad Museum of PA is sure to please! Once you enter, go straight to the elevator, upstairs, and across the bridge for an "OHHHHHH MY GOSH!!!!!" reaction from your entire party as you overlook the massive museum, with 100+ locomotives and cars from the 18th and 19th centuries!

After meandering your way through row after row of trains, some which you can board, and many hands-on-activities and learning stations, be sure to stop by the Stewart Junction, a special place for kids to build and play with motorized LEGOS, see huge model train displays, and more. We spent a good portion of our museum visit in that section, the kids couldn't get enough!

Located at 300 Gap Road, Strasburg PA, the museum is open Mondays - Saturdays from 9AM - 5PM and Sundays from noon - 5PM, but closed on Mondays in November - March. Admission is $10 per adult, $9 for seniors, $8 for youth, and free for ages 2 and under. They also have great membership options if you plan to go more than once a year!

The Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania is right across the street from the Strasburg Rail Road, and whether or not you plan to actually take a ride on that (which we covered in our 2017 Lancaster Vacation Guide), it is really fun to just go over and watch the huge train depart, screaming whistles and all. There's also a great free playground over there, as you can see in our video below, and Strasburg Rail Road hosts A Day Out with Thomas, if you can time your getaway right!

TINY TOWN INDOOR PLAYPLACE
If you end up getting rained out during your trip, or simply need a nice place to let the kids have some fun indoors, then Tiny Town Indoor Playplace is going to rock your world!! It is huge, brand new, so clean and organized and full of ways for your children to explore and imagine! It features a "Tiny Town" of 11 luxury play houses - we're talking an animal & human hospital, fire station, library, market, theater, Grandma's house, salon, and more! There were dress up clothes, books, toys - more than my kids could ask for in their wildest dreams. Not only did they have a blast, so did us parents!! Just watch my hubby trying to juggle in the video below LOL!!

I love how parent-friendly this place is as well, with a full coffee bar and snack bar (and you can BYO but keep in mind they're a nut-free facility), and lots of tables to spread out and relax (or work?) while the kiddos play. Shoes are kept on so no need to worry about whether or not you brought socks (a common mistake and added expense in summer)! They also have a little baby and toddler area gated off in the middle of the massive playplace.

Located at 533 Janet Ave in Lancaster PA, Tiny Town is open Mondays - Saturdays from 9AM - 4PM, and closed Sundays for parties. Admission is $10 for children (free for 12 months and under) and $8 for adults, and it's good for the whole day! So you can go and come back as you like!

CHERRY CREST ADVENTURE FARM
This was our 4th visit to the best agri-tainment in the area, Cherry Crest Adventure Farm. Set on 25 beautiful acres with over 60 farm fun activities, games, and rides, it's always a highlight of our Lancaster vacations! But, this year was the hottest it's been during our visit - sunny and about 90 degrees! YIKES! They have a bit of shade here and there, and a huge mist fan which is nice, but it is outdoors with lots of walking and moving around, so take note. Thankfully our kids weren't bothered by the heat and I am  incredibly glad we didn't cut it from our schedule - 100% worth the sweat haha!!

This year we were most excited to try their brand new Cherry Crest Feed Mill which is a giant kid and adult friendly obstacle course type thing with rock climbing, cargo nets, ropes and tires to balance and navigate across. Very fun!! We also were sure not to miss our tried and true favorites - the Hay Chute Slides, the Corn Crib (like a HUGE sand box filled with dried corn kernels instead of sand!!), the giant bounce pillow, and the Little Sprouts kids' village of outdoor luxury play houses.

We did nix a visit to their 24th Annual Amazing Maize Maze due to the heat (you can watch our trip through the corn maze last year here), but this year's "Man on the Moon 1969-2019 Corn Maze" design is in honor of their collaboration with NASA this year in celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the Apollo 11 Moon Landing. Behold their "5-acre corny version of outer space":
Cherry Crest Adventure Farm's 2019 Corn Maze
Photo courtesy of Cherry Crest Adventure Farm
From 1-3PM on Friday, July 19, NASA will broadcast LIVE from Cherry Crest on NASA TV, NASA's website, and the Discovery Science Channel, with NASA Astronaut Colonel Alvin Drew and NASA Chief Technologist Douglas Terrier introducing a special exhibit and programs on NASA Spin-off Technologies used by farmers today. There will also be a series of informal talks and photo ops with NASA astronauts on July 19 & 20! Learn more about that here!  The NASA Apollo 50 Celebration is free and open to the public, but regular entrance fees apply for Cherry Crest Adventure Farm activities and fees.

Located at 150 Cherry Hill Rd in Ronks PA, their hours vary by time of year so check here, but during summer season they're closed Sundays and Mondays. Children ages 3 and under are free, and adults are $16 online or $19 at the gate in summer. It's pretty all-inclusive and you can easily spend half a day with just the basic pass, but there are certain add-on activities you can pay for individually or purchase a more expensive pass that includes them. For example, their priciest pass is $31 online or $35 at the gate and includes the Apple Blasters, Battle Zone, Paintball Range, hand-make rope or gem-mining, and a souvenir cup drink or kettle corn.

VERDANT VIEW FARM
Looking to get hands-on with some adorable farm animals, then you gotta schedule a tour at Verdant View Farm, a pasture-raised grass-fed beef farm and bed & breakfast, family-run currently by its 4th generation of farmers! They have a selection of tours to choose from, including the Farmer's Apprentice Tour which we did (watch below for a good laugh and to learn a good bit, too!) as well as homemade ice cream tasting and demo, artisan cheesemaking and tasting, goat's milk soap making, and farming 101. 

I wasn't really sure what to expect, and it was a HOT day, but we just had the most interesting and fun time, and learned a lot about raising cows on a dairy vs. beef farm, that most of the corn in Lancaster is actually for the animals (what!?!?!), and general life on the farm. We got to milk a cow, bottle feed baby cows, hold chickens, and play with baby goats (who climbed on our backs - ouch)!! For such city slickers as ourselves, this was just such a unique experience we will never forget!! You can even book a room there for a more immersive experience - you can help collect the eggs they'll serve you for breakfast, and have milk fresh from the cow, can you imagine!? Talk about Farm to Table! I'm definitely going to consider this for our next trip to Lancaster!

Located at 429 Strasburg Road in Paradise PA, tours are held Mondays - Saturdays in June - August and Saturdays in Spring and Fall, and go for about $10 - $25 per person.

BIRD IN HAND SMORGASBORD & MAGIC SHOW
Last year we stayed at Bird-in-Hand Family Inn (read our review and see our tour here), and this year we were thrilled to go back for their amazing authentic Pennsylvania Dutch cooking Smorgasbord dinner followed by their "Magic & Wonder: IMAGINE" show! You can buy tickets for the show only, but I highly recommend the package including the Smorgasbord (packaged prices for $21 - 27 for children, $39 - $49 for adults). I recommend giving yourself 90 minutes or so to eat before the show starts. We sat down for dinner at 4PM, finished around 6PM, killed some time at their huge free on-site playground, and our show started at 7PM. Timing was perfect!

The Bird-in-Hand Smorgasbord is huge with a great variety of foods, a little kids' section with staples that'll suit picky kids' tastebuds, and a to-die-for dessert bar! The whoopie pie cake, omg guys, a must! If you're not up for a buffet, you can always order a la carte, check out their menu here!

The Bird-in-Hand Stage's website touts "broadway-style music theater and magic shows" and it's no joke. The entertainment was top notch - illusionist Brett Myers was spectacular! The fun starts off in the lobby where one of the magicians is doing small tricks for the kids (and selling cool magic tricks to take home as well). The main show itself was exciting, breath-taking, hilarious, and all-around highly entertaining!!! Unfortunately we were not allowed to film or take pictures, so you'll just have to take my word for it, or better yet, go see it for yourself! Do consider your schedule and kids' naps and bedtime though. Our 3 year old twins hadn't napped that day and we went to the 7PM show so you can imagine, it didn't go completely smoothly and we did have to escort ourselves not-so-quietly out of the show before it ended. But, this is life with 3 littles!! The night was fun while it lasted!

DUTCH WONDERLAND
This is our 3rd year in a row participating in Dutch Wonderland's summer blogger campaign - it's always exciting to receive their e-mail inviting us back, I'm not sure who's more excited, me or the kids! They call this 43-acre family amusement park a Kingdom for Kids and it really is! My kids absolutely adore it there! I think it's ideal for kids ages 3 - 8, but there is still plenty to do there for littler ones (many rides allow babies in lap) as well as older kids and even adults! Their thrill ride Merlin's Mayhem, for example, is my personal favorite, and you must be at least 42" to ride. We hit the park when they open at 10AM on Sundays and have never dealt with a line for the first hour or two. This allows my son 2-3 rides on Merlin's Mayhem in a row, and then we cram in as many rides as we can before lunch time!

If you get to the cafeteria by noon, it's still pretty empty and you can have a relaxed break eating pizza, grilled cheese, gourmet sandwiches, you name it. Then back to the pavement for more rides, and don't forget to catch some of their live shows, which are another chance to rest  your feet a bit. I'm a huge fan of their diving shows, especially "A Dragon's Tale" which had great music and I found it, actually, kind of hilarious!! Be sure to sit in one of the front rows if you enjoy a refreshing splash or two!

With fabulous live shows, over 35 rides, Duke's Lagoon water park, and animatronic dinosaurs in Exploration Island, you really do need to plan a full day at Dutch Wonderland to get as much in as possible. For families coming from NYC, this is even feasible as a day trip (bonus - the kids will sleep the entire ride home!!). If you plan to spend a good amount of time in the water park, I recommend a day and a half or 2 full days at Dutch Wonderland. Or you could go for a season's pass!

Regular pricing is $44.99 for visitors ages 3+, but you can get a special $5 discount with my code here!!

MILLER'S SMORGASBORD
Lancaster's original buffet and restaurant, Miller's started 90 years ago with a simple dish of chicken and waffles, which is still available in their massive smorgasbord and on their a la carte menu today!! It's a must-try, for sure, and you will not be disappointed with their large selection of items cooked from scratch and sourced from local farms! The dinner smorgasbord is $25.49 for adults (they have a $3 off coupon on their website), $9.99 for ages 10-12, $6.99 for ages 4-9, and free for ages 3 and under. You'll find a carving station, grilled veggies, soups, salads, appetizer station, and my favorite, the dessert bar where you can grab a pre-cut piece of cake or pie, or have them slice a warm pie for you (my personal recommendation is the Chocolate Pecan Pie!!!!!), and don't forget to have them add a scoop of ice cream!! We find Miller's the perfect place to visit after a long day at Dutch Wonderland. Then, we pile in the car with pleasantly filled bellies and let the kids sleep the whole drive home! Amazing end to an amazing family getaway!!

So, what do you think of our Lancaster Family Vacation Guide!? Have you been before, or are you planning a trip? Don't miss our past Lancaster vacation roundups here:
  • Summer 2018
  • Summer 2017

A list of activities, restaurants and accommodations you may want to consider in Lancaster (not a complete list, by all means, check out to Discover Lancaster for help researching & personalizing your itinerary):
Amish / Pennsylvania Dutch Experiences & Activities:
  • AAA Buggy Rides
  • Aaron & Jessica's Buggy Rides
  • Amish Experience
  • Abe's Buggy Rides
  • The Amish Farm & House
  • The Amish Village
  • Hans Herr House & Longhouse
  • Landis Valley Village & Farm Museum

Restaurants:
  • Bird in Hand Smorgasbord
  • Casey Jones' Restaurant @ Red Caboose Hotel
  • Central Market​​
  • Good 'N Plenty Restaurant
  • Katie's Kitchen
  • Miller's Smorgasbord
  • Mr. Sticky's Buns
  • ​Shady Maple Smorgasbord
​
Family-Friendly Activities:​​
  • Boulders Miniature Golf
  • Bounce Kraze
  • Choo Choo Barn
  • Corn Cob Acres
  • Country Barn's Barnyard Kingdom
  • Go 'N Bananas Family Fun Center
  • Hands-on-House Children's Museum
  • Lancaster Central Market
  • Lancaster Science Factory
  • National Toy Train Museum
  • North Museum of Science and Nature
  • Railroad Museum of Pennsylvania
  • Refreshing Mountain Adventure Center
  • Rockvale Outlets
  • Sickman's Mill Creek Tubing & Kayaking (closed summer 2019 season)
  • Sight & Sound Theater
  • Skyzone Trampoline Park​
  • Strasburg Railroad (with seasonal Thomas the Train excursions)
  • Tanger Outlets
  • Tiny Town Indoor Playplace
  • Turkey Hill Experience
  • Verdant View Farm Tour
  • Waters Edge Mini Golf

Family Friendly Accommodations:
  • Bird-in-Hand Family Inn (indoor/outdoor pools, playground, mini golf, tour neighboring farms, see our 2018 review here)
  • Lancaster DoubleTree Resort (great indoor splash zone for kids, see our 2017 review here)
  • Eden Resort (indoor/outdoor pools, outdoor kids water zone & playground)
  • Fulton Steamboat Inn (looks like a Steamboat! Very unique!)
  • Verdant View Farm Bed & Breakfast (for the true Farm to Table experience)
  • There are tons of options offering a more local feel and experience, as well, even staying on a working Amish farm!! Check out Discover Lancaster's list of accommodations!
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The Best 2019 Prime Day Deals for Families

7/15/2019

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Amazon Prime Day is NOW ( July 15 & 16, 2019)!!! Bookmark this page to keep coming back for our latest Best 2019 Prime Day Deals for Families picks - newly added products will be at the top of the post (just below here)!

Prime Day is for Prime Members only, however. But don't worry, you can sign up for a free 30-day trial here (this is an affiliate link, as are the links below - this means we'll earn a commission from purchases made after clicking)!!

Adding items as we hear about them, newest items added at top!!
  • BOB Revolution 2.0 Jogging Stroller for $299.99 (regularly $449.99)
  • 23andMe - Genetic Ancestry + Health for $99.99 (regularly $199)
See our review of 23andMe including our big reveal video discovering my Japanese born and raised husband is not 100% Japanese!!!
  • Ancestry DNA - Genetic Ancestry + Traits for $69 (regularly $119) or Genetic Ancestry only for $49 (regularly $99)
  • Stearns Puddle Jumper for $12.59 (regularly $26.95)
  • Playskool Sit 'n Spin for $19.99 (regularly $29.99)
  • KitchenAid Mixer for $239.99 (regularly $459.99)
  • Keurig K-Mini Single Serve for $49.99 (regularly $79.98)
  • Fire HD 8 Kids Edition Tablet for $79.99 (regularly $129.99)
  • Fire HD8 Kids Edition Tablet TWO PACK for $139.98 (regularly $259.98)
  • Fire 7 Tablet for $29.99 (regularly $49.99)
  • 35% off lots of KIND bars!!
  • Fitbit Ionic Watch $199.95 (regularly $249.95)
  • Ninja Blender for $44.99 (regularly $99.99)
  • Britax Marathon Click Tight Convertible Car Seat for $195.99 (regularly $279.99)
  • BabyBjorn Travel Crib for $239.20 (regularly $299)
  • JOOVY ScooterX2 for $154.99 (regularly $279.99)
  • Bob Revolution Flex Duallie 2.0 for $479.99 (regularly $639.99)
  • JOOVY Foodoo High Chair for $119.99 (regularly $199.99)
  • Instant Pot Duo Plus for $55.99 (regularly $129.95)
  • Dyson V7 Animalpro+ for $279.99 (regularly $399.99)
  • Fire Stick for $14.99 (regularly $39.99)
  • Fire TV Cube for $59.99 (regularly $199.99)
  • Fire TV Edition Toshiba 32" for $99.99 (regularly $179.99)
  • Echo Dot Kids Edition for $49.99 (regularly $69.99)
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Bay Ridge Area Kids Events Roundup: July 11 - 17

7/9/2019

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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 July 11 - 17, 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:
  • Bay Ridge Families' Summer Bucket List
  • Family Friendly Day Trips, Weekend Getaways, Nearby Pools / Splash pads / Sprinklers
  • ​2019-2020 NYC Public School Calendar is up - see it here​ (School starts Sept 5)
  • (June 25 - July 14) Music Together Free Trial Classes
  • (June 27 - August 30) Free summer meals! Free breakfast and lunch for all children under 18. See locations and times here.
  • (June 27 - Sept 8) NYC Public Pools open 11 - 7 (see nearest pools and sprinklers here!)
  • Moms with kid(s) in tow receive a free juice or smoothie with purchase of a meal @ Cocoa Grinder (9504 4th Ave), Tuesdays/Thursdays/Sundays @ 10am-6pm
  • (Saturdays 8 - 3 thru Nov 23) ​Bay Ridge Greenmarket @ Walgreen's Parking Lot (9408 3rd Ave)
  • (Sundays 9 - 4 thru Nov 24) Bensonhurst Greenmarket @ Milestone Park (18th Ave, 81-82nd St)
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THURSDAY, JULY 11:
  • Mommy & Me with Miss Darlene @ Play Days & Parties @ 10 - 12​
  • FREE - Game On! @ Sunset Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • "Wally the Whale" Little Brushes ($30) @ Pinot's Palette @ 12 - 2
  • FREE - Read with a Book Buddy @ Dyker Library @ 2 - 3
  • FREE - Team Up To Read: Be Curious @ Sunset Park Library @ 2 - 3
  • FREE - Babies & Books @ Dyker Library @ 2:15 - 3
  • FREE - Kids Create: Arts and Crafts @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • FREE - BRL: Sunset Park Robotics @ Sunset Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Teen Tech Time @ McKinley Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Building Beats Song-writing Workshop @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Dungeons and Dragons @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Teen Anime Club @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • ​Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults ($10) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 6 - 7
  • FREE - Movies Under the Stars: "Star Wars, a New Hope" @ Owl's Head Park @ 8:45 - 10:45
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FRIDAY, JULY 12:
  • FREE - Coloring @ Sunset Park Library @ 10 - 11
  • ​FREE - Team Up To Read: Be Curious @ Dyker Library @ 11 - 11:45
  • FREE - StoryPlay @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11 - 11:45
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Game On! @ Sunset Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Read with a Book Buddy @ Dyker Library @ 2 - 3
  • FREE - Breakdancers @WondrousNYC @ Industry City @ 2 - 5
  • FREE - Chess Club @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Game On! PS4 @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Game On! @ McKinley Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Kids Create @ Dyker Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Stomp, Clap & Sing with Jam I Am @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5:30
  • FREE - Summer Stroll @ 3rd Ave (80th - 90th Streets) @ 5 - 10:30
  • FREE - Outdoor Cinema Series "Wreck It Ralph" @ Narrows Botanical Garden @ 8:45
SATURDAY, JULY 13:
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime! @ Sunset Park Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ McKinley Park Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • FREE - WonderSpark Puppets @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Dyker Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Sunset Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - FREE SHSAT Prep Class @ McKinley Park Library @ 11:30 - 2:30
  • "Summer Bear" Little Brushes ($30) @ Pinot's Palette @ 12 - 2
  • ​​FREE - Family DJ Dance Party - Music of Led Zeppelin for Kids @ 238 36th St @ 12:30​​​
  • FREE - Magician in Residence, Tyler Schwartz @ Industry City @ 12:30 - 3:30
  • FREE - Chess at 3 Storytime @ Industry City @ 1 - 5 (on the hour)
  • FREE - GinFizz Swing Dance Lessons & Concert @ Brooklyn Army Terminal @ 1:30
  • FREE - Little Scientists @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Build with Duplo @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Summer Reading Coach @ Sunset Park Library @ 2 - 5
  • FREE - Chess Club @ Bay Ridge Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 3 - 3:45
  • FREE - Build with Lego @ Sunset Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime: Cantonese Storytime @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Movies Under the Stars "Spiderman Into the Spider-Verse" @ Scarangella Park @ 8:30 - 10:30
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SUNDAY, JULY 14:
  • FREE - DHAA Knights Girls Softball Clinic @ Bay 8th Field at Poly Place @ 9 - 10:30
  • FREE - Chess at 3 Storytime @ Industry City @ 1 - 5 (on the hour)
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MONDAY, JULY 15:
  • FREE - Discovery Table @ McKinley Park Library @ 10 - 11
  • FREE - First Five Years Kids Create @ McKinley Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Coloring @ Sunset Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Game On! @ Sunset Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Teen Writing Club @ Dyker Library @ 11:30 - 12:30
  • FREE - Read with a Book Buddy @ Dyker Library @ 2 - 3
  • FREE - Kids Tech Time @ Sunset Park Library @ 2 - 3
  • FREE - Kids Tech Time: Edison Robots @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • FREE - Book Adventures @ McKinley Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Chess Club @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Origami @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
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TUESDAY, JULY 16:
  • FREE - StoryPlay @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 & 11
  • FREE - Coloring @ Sunset Park Library @ 10 - 11
  • Acrylic Under Water Sea Drawing & Painting Project (7/16 & 7/18, $120) @ Party Spot NYC @ 10 - 1
  • ​Open Play BRBM Special ($5) @ Play Days & Parties​ @ 10:30 - 12:30
  • Lavender Blues ($10) @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Game On! @ Sunset Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Read and Play @ Sunset Park Library @ 1 - 1:45
  • Dr. Alex & Friends Singalong ($10) @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Teen Time @ Sunset Park Library @ 2 - 3
  • FREE - Chess Workshop @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2 - 3:30
  • FREE - Aliens: Escape from Earth by ScienceTellers @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - BRL: Sunset Park Robotics @ Sunset Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - DIY for Teens @ McKinley Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Reading Coach @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 5:45
  • BYOBaby Play Date ($5) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center​​​​​ @ 3:30 - 5
  • FREE - After School Stories @ Sunset Park Library @ 4:30 - 5:30
WEDNESDAY, JULY 17:
  • Lavender Blues ($20) @ Dimensions on Stage @ 10 - 10:40​​​​​
  • FREE - Coloring @ Sunset Park Library @ 10 - 11
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • FREE - Babies and Books @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • Tic Toc Spanish ($10) @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 11:45
  • FREE - Game On! @ Sunset Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Toddler Time @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11:30 - 12
  • "Scoops and Sprinkles" Little Brushes ($30) @ Pinot's Palette @ 12 - 2
  • FREE - Family Movie: Monsters VS Aliens @ McKinley Park Library @ 1 - 3
  • FREE - La Hora Mágica de los Pequeños @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Build with LEGO @ Bay Ridge Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • FREE - Kids Explore: The Children's Museum of Manhattan Presents Bug Out! Spiders @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • FREE - DIY: Arts and Craft @ Sunset Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Library Lab @ McKinley Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Summer Reading Coach @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 5:30
  • FREE - Yoga in the Park @ Owl's Head Park @ 6:30 - 8
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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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