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

Mommy Scene's New Baby Vibes Giveaway

9/27/2017

10 Comments

 

New Baby Vibes Giveaway - Mommy Scene

We are excited to bring you a fabulous giveaway featuring these great baby products!

Buttons Diapers cloth diaper cover + 3 inserts - Buttons Diapers are all-in-two cloth diapers that consist of adjustable waterproof diaper covers and snap-in-place absorbent diaper inserts. Choose a cover and an insert, and you’re set! Winner may choose cover style.

BeliBea NOURISH CAMI - For both breastfeeding and hands-free pumping convenience! An innovative dual-panel design allows mothers to keep the garment in place whether breastfeeding, pumping or reveling in the moments between. The inside panel features a unique opening that holds a breast shield in place for hands-free pumping! NOURISH CAMI is a great layering piece and excellent tummy coverage when breastfeeding or pumping!

Yummi Pouch Brights (Set of 4)  - These reusable food pouches combine style and convenience in an Eco-friendly reusable drink container you can fill with homemade smoothies and blended snacks. Easy to fill and clean through the top zipper opening and simple for kids to drink from the side spout.

Back Buddy Deluxe Support Pillow - Award-winning Back Buddy Support Pillow now with an ultra-plush minky cover. All-In-One covers are not removable and may be spot cleaned as necessary. Available in several high-quality colors and designs.

Cozy Baby Sleeper by Revelae Kids - Keep baby cozy and secure in this enclosed baby sleeper that provides a baby with cozy boundaries without restricting movement. The sleeper unzips from the bottom up for easy diaper changes and the enclosed sleeper design helps with startle reflex and even discourages a baby from sucking their fingers or thumb.

Motif Duo Breast Pump - The Motif Duo is adaptable to meet your individual needs, no matter where you are in your breastfeeding journey. The single or double pumping option allows you to pump how you want, the memory feature saves your settings, and the lightweight portable design makes this pump ideal to take anywhere you go.

Milkmaid Goods Nursing Poncho - A nursing cover has never been so functional! These Full Coverage Nursing Ponchos double as a car seat cover, swaddle, shopping cart cover, & eliminates the need for costly breastfeeding clothing. Any new mom's best tool.

This giveaway is coordinated by Mommy Scene and is open to US entries ages 18 and older. No purchase required to enter. One (1) winner will be randomly chosen and contacted through e-mail, and their name displayed on the giveaway widget after the giveaway ends on October 18th, 2017. Mommy Scene and participating blogs are not responsible for fulfilling brand-sponsored prizes. Prizes will be shipped directly from each brand.

 

Mommy Scene Blog Street Team

a Rafflecopter giveaway
10 Comments

Bay Ridge Area Kids Events Roundup: Sept 28 - Oct 4

9/26/2017

0 Comments

 
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 September 28 - October 4, 2017! 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!!
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​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.

**HALLOWEEN GUIDE** 
We'll be publishing our first annual Bay Ridge Families' Halloween Guide with the best places to trick or treat, see amazing Halloween decorations, and local fall or Halloween related parties and activities!! Be sure to send us your tips and recommendations ASAP!!
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THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 28:
  • Mommy & Me Class & Open Play @ Play Days & Parties @ 10 - 12
  • Game On! Wii & PS4 @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4
  • DIY: Pampered Hands and Feet @ Dyker Library @ 3:15 - 4:15
  • After School Homework Help @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 6

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 29:
  • Preschool Storytime @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11:30 - 12:30
  • Family Movie @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3:30 - 5
  • Movie Night Drop-Off: Smurfs @ Kaleidoscope (prepayment required) @ 6:30 - 9
  • Movie Night & Bounce Drop Off: Nine Lives @ Bounce @ (RSVP required) @ 6:30 - 9


SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 30:
  • Alt Side Parking Suspended (Yom Kippur)
  • Free Trial Lessons @ Front Line Dance Center
  • Winter Coat Drive @ Investors Bank @ 9 - 2
  • Saturday Storytime @ McKinley Park Library @ 10 - 10:30
  • Story & Movement Class @ Raine & Riley's @ 10 - 10:45
  • It's My Park @ Owl's Head Park @ 10 - 12
  • Saturday Storytime @ Sunset Park Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • Saturday Stories @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11 - 12
  • WonderSpark Puppets @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 12
  • Preschool Storytime @ buybuyBABY (Industry City) @ 11
  • Little Brushes "Fall Emojis" @ Pinot's Palette @ 12 - 2
  • Family Dance Party (Hurricane Relief) @ Industry City (220 36th St, Courtyard 1/2) @ 12 - 6
  • Saturday Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 3
  • Saturday Storytime @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2:30 - 3
  • Little Scientists: Science Kits for Toddlers and Preschoolers @ Sunset Park Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • Pixie Rose (handmade baby items) Pop Up Shop @ The Coop @ 3 - 6
  • ZION LIVE Concert @ Shore Road Park (79th St) @ 5 - 7


MONDAY, OCTOBER 2:
  • Library Lab @ Dyker Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • Chess Club @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3:30 - 5
  • Building W/ LEGO Mindstorm @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • After School Homework Help @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 6

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TUESDAY, OCTOBER 3:
  • ​Open Play BRBM Special @ Play Days & Parties @ 10:30 - 12:30
  • ​Babies & Books @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10:30 & 11
  • Build with Lego and Duplo @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • BYOBaby Play Date @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 3:30 - 5
  • Kids Create @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • DIY: Creative Hour @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • After-School Stories @ Sunset Park Library @ 4:30 - 5:30

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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 4:
  • ​Lavender Blues @ Dimensions on Stage (7601 3rd Ave) @ 10 - 10:40
  • ​Toddler Time @ Dyker Library @ 10:15 & 11:15
  • Babies and Books @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • Toddler Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10:30 & 11:15
  • The Buttons (kids concert) @ The Coop @ 11 - 11:45
  • Build with DUPLO @ Dyker Library @ 11 & 12
  • Toddler Time @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11:30 - 12
  • Build with LEGO @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4
  • Storytime @ The BookMark Shoppe @ 3 - 4
  • Homework Help @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 7
  • Teen Tech Time: Nintendo WiiU @ Dyker Library @ 3:15 - 4:15
  • La Hora Mágica de los Pequeños @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • After School Homework Help @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 6
  • Mini Yogi's Class @ Raine & Riley's @ 6 - 6:30
  • Kids' Yoga Class @ Raine & Riley's @ 6:30 - 7

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Hudson's House of Play in West New York

9/22/2017

2 Comments

 
Being a mom of 3 toddlers, I'm always on the lookout for great play spaces in the Greater NYC area, especially inclosed ones that allow my kids some freedom to explore but also allow me to sit back and not lose track of anyone! While not in NYC proper (i.e. requiring a car), I found one recently just across the Hudson in West New York (New Jersey) that is ah-may-zing!! I'm pleased to introduce you to Hudson's House of Play!!
US Japan Fam reviews Hudson's House of Play in West New York, NJ!
Hudson's House of Play is an indoor play space focused on imaginary play for children ages 5 months to 5 years. The carpeted playroom was custom built to mimic a little downtown city center, with a house, an animal clinic, fire station, grocery store, cafe, and school bus! Kids can go inside each of these "buildings" to find toys and dress-up to play pretend as a veterinarian, fire fighter, cashier, and more! My 1.5 year old twins were especially obsessed with the grocery carts and the school bus. They even have a separately inclosed soft play area for the littlest guests (shown in image below right).
US Japan Fam reviews Hudson's House of Play in West New York, NJ!
They also have a bookshelf, a couple of benches for the parents to sit and watch (with free wifi), doll houses, a wooden train table, and more. Two bathrooms (with a changing table) are located within the closed off play space, but strollers must be kept in the outter lobby area. Socks are required for all, even adults, but can be purchased for $2 a pair if you forget (seen on my kiddos below, we came in sandals, oops!!).

Having been to my fare share of play spaces, I was incredibly impressed with how meticulously clean and well taken care of Hudson's was. I loved that they had a bucket out and instructed you upon admission to toss any items in there that your littles put in their mouths. I saw staff continuously cleaning item from the bucket and placing them back in the play area, so nothing was out of rotation for too long. It was great!!
US Japan Fam reviews Hudson's House of Play in West New York, NJ!
Open play is limited to a 2-hour session, and your child will find plenty of fun ways to fill their time! Admission is $16 (plus tax) for 1 child (over 10 months), $13 (plus tax) for each sibling, $11 (plus tax) for siblings 6-10 months, and there's a shorter 1-hour admission option for children under 24 months for $13 (plus tax). They have a little cafe area with snacks and toys for purchase, and of course.
Hudson's House of Play does birthday parties and classes, too (including Preschool of Rock, Indian Cultural Immersion, Mommy and Me Dance, Tot Shabbat, and Mommy and Me Yoga)!! In fact, they have a FREE SUPERHEROES IN TRAINING CLASS tomorrow, Saturday, September 23 from 10-10:45am for ages 3-6 years. Register here!

In case you're like us and don't live nearby, there are a couple of places to check out in conjunction with a visit to Hudson's House of Play. Mitsuwa Market is just a couple miles up the river - it's a large Asian grocery store with a Japanese food court, bakery, book store, and more. It's really fun to browse around. Also, if it's a nice day, there's a beautiful promenade along the river by Hudson's and Mitsuwa (but you can't go the whole way from one to another thanks to some horrible construction). Bring the stroller and some snacks and take a nice long walk! If you want to go further, Field Station Dinosaurs and Turtle Back Zoo are each about a half hour drive (in opposite directions) from Hudson's.
US Japan Fam reviews Hudson's House of Play in West New York, NJ!
Have you ever been to Hudson's House of Play? Know of another great play space we should review in the greater NYC area?? Leave a comment below!!

Looking for more great ways to spend the day with kids in the NYC area?? Be sure to check out my list of Day Trips & Getaways as well as my kid-friendly guide to each of the 5 NYC boroughs!

Disclaimer: Though we did receive complimentary admission in exchange for our honest review, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
2 Comments

Bay Ridge Area Kids Events Roundup: September 21 - 27

9/19/2017

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 September 21 - 27, 2017! 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:
  • Target Car Seat Trade-In Program, September 10 - 23
  • ​Bay Ridge Cares' Fort Hamilton Senior Center Kitchen Makeover, volunteers needed 9/30, 10/1, 10/7, 10/8


THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 21:
  • Public Schools Closed & Alt Side Parking Suspended (Rosh Hashanah)
  • Mommy & Me Class & Open Play @ Play Days & Parties @ 10 - 12
  • "Twilight City" Pizza & Paint @ Pinot's Palette @ 12:30 - 2:30
  • Free Face Painting @ The Coop @ 1 - 3
  • Greek Cultural Festival @ Ridge Blvd between 84th - 86th Streets @ 2 - 11
  • Game On! Wii & PS4 @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4
  • DIY: Personalize It @ Dyker Library @ 3:15 - 4:15
  • Kids Create: Arts and Crafts @ Sunset Park @ 3:30 - 4:30


FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 22:​
  • Public Schools Closed & Alt Side Parking Suspended (Rosh Hashanah
  • Preschool Storytime @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11:30 - 12:30
  • Bay Ridge Rocks Hide & Seek @ The Coop @ 1 - 3
  • Greek Cultural Festival @ Ridge Blvd between 84th - 86th Streets @ 2 - 11
  • Family Movie @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3:30 - 5
  • "Toot Sweet Mini" Little Brushes @ Pinot's Palette @ 4 - 6
  • ​Family Gaming Night @ Sunset Park Library @ 5:30 - 7
  • Movie Night Drop Off: Moana @ Kaleidoscope (prepayment required) @ 6:30 - 9
  • Movie Night Drop Off: Zootopia @ Bounce U (registration required) @ 6:30 - 9
  • Movies Under the Stars: Wonder Woman @ John Paul Jones Park @ 7 - 9:30

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SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 23:
  • 2nd Annual NYPD Motorcycle & Car Show @ Our Lady of Angels Church @ 9 - 3
  • Story & Movement Class @ Raine & Riley's @ 10 - 10:45
  • Saturday Storytime @ McKinley Park Library @ 10 - 11
  • Saturday Storytime @ Sunset Park Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • Saturday Stories @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11 - 12
  • Preschool Storytime @ buybuyBABY (Industry City) @ 11
  • Greek Cultural Festival @ Ridge Blvd between 84th - 86th Streets @ 12 - 11
  • Family DJ Dance Party: Music of Madonna @ 220 36th St (Industry City Courtyard 1/2) @ 12:30
  • Brooklyn Kids Got Talent @ New Ultrecht Ave btwn 77-78th Streets @ 1
  • Saturday Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 3
  • Saturday Storytime @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2:30 - 3
  • Little Scientists: Science Kits for Toddlers and Preschoolers @ Sunset Park Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • "My Family 10x10 Collaborative" @ Pinot's Palette @ 3 - 5
  • Parents' Survival Night @ The Little Gym @ 5 - 8

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SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 24:
  • Greek Cultural Festival @ Ridge Blvd between 84th - 86th Streets @ 12 - 7

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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 25:
  • Kids Create @ Dyker Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • Chess Club @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3:30 - 5
  • Family Movie: Matilda @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 5:30
  • Game On! @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5


TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26:
  • ​Babies & Books @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10:30 & 11
  • ​Open Play BRBM Special @ Play Days & Parties @ 10:30 - 12:30
  • Chinese Calligraphy (all ages) @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:15 - 4:15
  • Build with Lego and Duplo @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • BYOBaby Playdate @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 3:30 - 5:30
  • ​Kids Create: Bay Ridge Rocks @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • DIY: Creative Hour @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • DIY for teens @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5


WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 27:​
  • ​Lavender Blues @ Dimensions on Stage (7601 3rd Ave) @ 10 - 10:40
  • ​Toddler Time @ Dyker Library @ 10:15 & 11:15
  • Babies and Books @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • Toddler Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10:30 & 11:15
  • The Buttons (kids concert) @ The Coop @ 11 - 11:45
  • Build with DUPLO @ Dyker Library @ 11 & 12
  • Toddler Time @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11:30 - 12
  • Kids Explore: LEGO Building @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4
  • Teen Tech Time: Nintendo WiiU @ Dyker Library @ 3:15 - 4:15
  • La Hora Mágica de los Pequeños @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • Kids Create @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Family DJ Dance Party @ 220 36th St (Industry City Courtyard 1/2) @ 5:30
  • Mini Yogi's Class @ Raine & Riley's @ 6 - 6:30
  • Kids' Yoga Class @ Raine & Riley's @ 6:30 - 7

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Real Life of Parents of Twins & Triplets (YouTube Collab)

9/19/2017

2 Comments

 
Whether you're a parent of twins or triplets, about to become one, or are simply fascinated by multiples, I am very excited to present to you an awesome video I created featuring the fun tell-alls of a handful of YouTube parents of multiples!
We've got parents of triplets, twins plus one, and twins twice over (yes, 2 sets of twins, it happens!!) weighing in on everything from how they reacted to finding out they were pregnant with multiples to what the hardest and craziest parts are of being a mom or dad of twins or triplets.
Here are the amazing YouTubers featured in the video:
  • US Japan Fam (yours truly): twins plus 1 in NYC
  • The Baby Gang: triplets plus 1 - You may remember them from their OH SO CUTE viral video (over 5 million views) featuring mom changing triplets' diapers on the bed)
  • Mandie Hearts Life: 2 sets of twins 16 months apart
  • The Walkerpedia: 2 sets of twins and a singleton
  • Mom Life with Twins: expat family with 5 kids (youngest are identical twin boys) in Dubai
  • Stevie's Life: twins plus 1 in Kentucky
Alright, now what are you waiting for!! You'll laugh, you'll cry, you'll be in love!!! Watch the video below and don't forget to like, subscribe, comment, and watch the other videos in the play list!!
2 Comments

Twins, Sibling, & Family T-Shirt Sets at Target

9/14/2017

3 Comments

 
I don't know about you, but I'm constantly looking for cute graphic tee sets for my kids. They tend to be quite pricey - I paid about $40 for a set of "I Rock / I Roll" newborn onesies for my twins - yowza!! But, I have exciting news because Target has just released a whole slew of graphic tee family sets that are 1) cute and 2) super affordable ($4.50-10 per tee for baby, toddler, big kid, men, and women)!! I actually bought a couple of the sets myself, but haven't received them yet... I'll update this post after they arrive with some pix and my thoughts on the quality!

​You can browse through Target's family graphic tee sets here (you really have to scroll through since only the holiday shirts are conveniently grouped together as a set on their site, poor planning by Target). I've created images below of the sets all together to make it easier for you guys, if you like a set below that isn't linked, just click the general family set link here and browse through til you find each item.

Disclaimer: I'm not working with Target to promote these items, I just wanted to share for those interested! Links below are affiliate links (meaning I get a tiny % of the sales to help fund the blog, at no extra cost to you, can you say WIN-WIN!? LOL).

Halloween "Boo"
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Thanksgiving "Be Thankful"
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Best sets for TWINS!
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What do you think? Which ones are your favorites? Did you order any? Have another place to recommend selling great twins, siblings, or family tee sets!? Leave a comment below!!!
3 Comments

Bay Ridge Area Kids Events Roundup: September 14 - 20

9/12/2017

0 Comments

 
Bay Ridge Families' Weekly Kids' Events Roundup
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 September 14 - 20, 2017! 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 demo classes, September 6 - 16
  • Target Car Seat Trade-In Program, September 10 - 23
  • Union Church Play Group open house week, September 11 - 15
  • Bay Ridge Cares' Fort Hamilton Senior Center Kitchen Makeover, volunteers needed 9/30, 10/1, 10/7, 10/8


THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 14:
  • ​​Mommy & Me Class & Open Play @ Play Days & Parties @ 10 - 12
  • Library Lab @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4
  • DIY: Create with Clay @ Dyker Library @ 3:15 - 4:15
  • Free Boys Ballet Class @ Bay Ridge Ballet @ 5 - 6
  • Sunset Sounds: Naughty Professor @ 274 36th Street Courtyard 1/2 @ 6:30

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 15:
  • Preschool Storytime @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11:30 - 12:30
  • Family Movie: The LEGO Batman Movie @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3:30 - 5
  • Super Hero Day @ John J Carty Park @ 3:30 - 5:30
  • Movie Drop-Off: Bossy Baby (pre-payment required) @ Kaleidoscope @ 6:30 - 9
  • Drop Off Bounce & Movie: The Trolls Movie (RSVP required) @ Bounce U @ 6:30
  • Movie Night: Ferris Bueller's Day Off @ St. Pat's @ 7 - 11
  • Movie Night: Fantasia @ Narrows Botanical Garden @ 7:30


SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 16:
  • It's My Park @ Owl's Head Park @ 10 - 12
  • Fall Fair @ Norwegian Christian Home & Health Center @ 10 - 5
  • Saturday Stories @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11 - 12
  • Preschool Storytime @ buybuyBABY (Industry City) @ 11
  • "The Majestic One" Little Brushes @ Pinot's Palette @ 12 - 2
  • Rock & Roll Playhouse DJ Family Dance Party @ 274 36th Street Courtyard 1/2 @ 12:30
  • Saturday Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 3
  • Saturday Storytime @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2:30 - 3
  • Movies Under the Stars: Angry Birds @ McKinley Park @ 7 - 8:45
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SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 17:
  • ​Open House & 1 Year Anniversary Party @ Vinnyasa Yoga Studio @ 3 - 8

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 18:
  • ​Library Lab @ Dyker Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • Chess Club @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3:30 - 5

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TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 19:
  • Babies & Books @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10:30 & 11
  • ​Open Play BRBM Special @ Play Days & Parties @ 10:30 - 12:30
  • "Wooden Sign" Bring Your Baby to Paint Class @ Pinot's Palette @ 12 - 2
  • BYOBaby Playdate @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 3:30 - 5
  • Kids Create @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5


WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 20:
  • ​Lavender Blues @ Dimensions on Stage (7601 3rd Ave) @ 10
  • Toddler Time @ Dyker Library @ 10:15 & 11:15
  • Toddler Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10:30 & 11:15
  • Babies and Books @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • The Buttons (kids concert) @ The Coop @ 11 - 11:45
  • Build with DUPLO @ Dyker Library @ 11 & 12
  • Toddler Time @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11:30 - 12
  • Teen Tech Time: Nintendo WiiU @ Dyker Library @ 3:15 - 4:15
  • Kids Explore: LEGO Building @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4

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Bay Ridge's Union Church Playgroup

9/11/2017

3 Comments

 
We all feel the pressure as parents. The pressure to provide our children with the best education, the newest toys, the cutest clothes, the healthiest food, and the most amazing childhood ever. If we fail in any one area on any single day, we have failed as a parent. Right? WRONG! Thank goodness. Let me just say, parents, give yourself a break. You're doing a great job raising your little humans! 
Now that we've cleared that up, South Brooklyn parents of children under the age of 4 - nervous about how to prep your kids for going off to school, bored of your regular routine, wanting to socialize your toddlers and yourself - I'm very pleased to introduce you to Union Church Playgroup (or UCP) in Bay Ridge!!
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Running for 20 years now, UCP is an amazing playgroup for toddlers and preschoolers and their parent or caregiver, serving about 100 families a week in the heart of Bay Ridge, Brooklyn. They have two types of (non-drop-off) playgroups: mixed-age (for walkers through age 4) and 3's & 4s (kind of a preschool alternative or pre-preschool). Personally, I've only been to the mixed-age playgroup, which consists of 90 minutes of open play followed by 30 minutes of structured teacher-led activities (I'm told 3's & 4's program is more of a 50/50 split). Read on for more elaboration and how to check out a class for free!
US Japan Fam reviews Union Church Playgroup in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn
Open Play:
The play room at UCP is a toddler's dream come true. Basically, any toy you can imagine is in here, and there are a number of themed centers spread out around the very large carpeted room. You've got kitchens, sand box, dress-up, puppet theater, ride-ons, rocking toys, blocks, train table, musical instruments, books, and much more!! There's also an arts & crafts table set up with a project of the week, usually related to the book that will be read later. Families come in at their leisure since there's no official start to the class. Open play continues (parents and caregivers stay and monitor their children) for the first 90 minutes of the class for mixed ages and the first hour for 3's and 4's, after which there's a massive cleanup and the start of the structured teacher-led portion, usually led by the wonderful Jennifer Kruger, who's been running Union Church Playgroup for a decade now!
US Japan Fam reviews Union Church Playgroup in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn
Teacher-Led Period (Mixed-Ages Playgroup):
After cleaning up all the toys, children are seated at the table (grownups stand around behind them supervising), and are provided snacks - usually goldfish or animal crackers, and water or apple juice. You're welcome to bring your own snacks if you wish, just no peanuts or nuts due to the concern about allergies of other children. You're also provided with wet wipes, and there are bathrooms (with toddler seats) as well if you prefer to wash hands. While the children are eating, the teacher enthusiastically reads a story, asking questions and engaging the children. 
US Japan Fam reviews Union Church Playgroup in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn - story and snacktime
After story and snack comes cleanup, followed immediately by music circle - the kids grab a musical instrument and jam along to one song on the floor. Next up is a finger play, sometimes related to the book and craft from earlier. Something along the lines of The Wheels on the Bus or The Itsy Bitsy Spider. Last but certainly not least, as it's my personal favorite, is the beloved "RUN AROUND" which is exactly what it sounds like. They turn on a song and the kids run in one giant circle, high fiving adults as they pass by. There are giggles and squeals, and the occasional face plant, it's fun for all!

In my experience, the transitions during the teacher-led period can be rather abrupt, which can be difficult for some kids. Some toddlers are getting cranky (ready for a nap) by this time. Cleaning up toys and moving from snack to music circle are always the hardest for my kids, but they all learn quickly and get used to the flow.
US Japan Fam reviews Union Church Playgroup in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn - music circle
Teacher-Led Portion (3's & 4's Group):
​For the older preschool-aged kids, story and snack are at separate times, as they want to encourage the children to notice each other and chat during snack time. The teacher-led portion is longer, about 1 hour, consisting of snack, circle time with a story and a preschool concept related to the story (ex. counting, colors, shapes) and every child has a chance to come up and answer a question, gross motor activity (ex. Ring Around the Rosie, London Bridge, playing with a parachute), table top activity (in small groups so children can work together), and last but not least, the Run Around.

​Open House:
They hold free open house week before the start of each session (Fall - September through December, Winter - January through March, Spring - April through June)! Through Friday, September 15 you can attend one of their Open House sessions for free, no registration needed!! Open House classes are always a bit chaotic so take it with a grain of salt - the regular weekly playgroup will be less crowded but run in the same manner, so you'll get a good idea of the program. You'll have a chance to sign up for the session you prefer, but they fill up quickly so don't delay! Check the schedule here!

Sessions run from $148 for 8 classes to $240.50 for 13 classes (the number of classes varies by season), with a 25% discount for extra days and extra kids. And Union Church members pay half price!! Go here to see their 2017-2018 schedule and prices.

Held in the basement of the Union Church of Bay Ridge (7915 Ridge Boulevard, just a block from bustling 3rd Avenue and less than half a mile from the R train's 77th Street subway station), I really can't recommend this playgroup highly enough. It's an amazing way to socialize your child and yourself! While your little one is playing alone or with other children, you can meet lots of other parents and caregivers and maybe even make some lifelong friends (I'm not even kidding, many moms have become besties here!).
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Worth Noting:
  • The room can get a bit chaotic, transition times are quick, and music circle can get loud. Consider your child's needs and talk to the teacher if concerned. Some may find it helpful to come right at the start of class before most families arrive so the child can adjust to the room and noise more gradually. Others may find a pair of sound muffling headphones helpful, especially during music circle and run around - we had a child in my son's group a couple of years ago do this and it helped him tremendously.
  • There are a few steps at the entrance, but a staff member is there to assist getting strollers into the church and will watch your stroller during the class since you'll leave it parked in the main lobby area. You'll proceed with your child down a narrow flight of stairs into the playroom, and there are 2 bathrooms down there.
  • The play room can get quite warm. I highly recommend dressing yourself and your child in layers all year round.
  • At the end of each class, hand stamps and lollipops are offered to each child. However, the teachers respect that some parents don't allow candy, so will look to the care giver for approval before officially offering it to your child! If you want to avoid this situation completely, you can leave a couple minutes early, or make an extended potty run with your child while the others are filing out of the room.
  • They are very relaxed about missing classes and making them up - you don't need to notify them for either!! If your child is sick, simply skip the class and make it up at another day's class!

So, what do you think? Have you been to Union Church Playgroup before, or have another activity to recommend in the Greater Bay Ridge area? Leave a comment below, and click the "share" button if you have a friend you think might be interested in UCP!!

Also, be sure to check out our list of Classes & Activities for Bay Ridge Babies and Toddlers, a great resource providing a vast array of places your children will enjoy, and sign up to receive Bay Ridge Families' weekly kids' events roundup by e-mail!!
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This review was sponsored by Union Church Playgroup, however all thoughts and opinions are my own.
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Bay Ridge Area Kids Events Roundup: September 7 - 13

9/5/2017

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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 September 7 - 13, 2017! 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 demo classes, September 6 - 16
  • Target Car Seat Trade-In Program, September 10 - 23
  • Union Church Play Group open house week, September 11 - 15
  • Bay Ridge Cares' Fort Hamilton Senior Center Kitchen Makeover, volunteers needed 9/30, 10/1, 10/7, 10/8


THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 7:
  • First Day of School for NYC Public Schools (partial day for Pre-K & K)
  • ​​Mommy & Me Class & Open Play @ Play Days & Parties @ 10 - 12
  • Kids' Karaoke @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4
  • Sunset Sounds: Greg Humphreys Electric Trio & Jamie McClean Band @ 274 36th Street Courtyard 1/2 (Industry City) @ 5:30

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FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 8:
  • Preschool Storytime @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11:30 - 12:30
  • Chess & Scrabble @ Bay Ridge Library @ 1:30 - 3
  • Game On! @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3:30 - 5
  • Drop-off Movie: The LEGO Batman Movie @ Kaleidoscope (prepayment required) @ 6:30 - 10
  • Drop-off Bounce & Movie: Secret Life of Pets @ Bounce U (registration required) @ 6:30 - 10
  • Movies Under the Stars: Star Wars Rogue One @ Owl's Head Park @ 7 - 10
  • Movie Night Showing: Planet of the Apes @ Narrows Botanical Gardens @ 7:30(ish)
  • Coney Island Parachute Jump Goes Gold for Childhood Cancer Awareness @ 7 - 8:30


SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 9:
  • Open House, Free Trials, & Auditions @ Bay Ridge Ballet @ 9 - 6
  • It's My Park @ Owl's Head Park @ 10 - 12
  • Saturday Stories @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11 - 12
  • It's My Park @ Leif Ericson Park @ 11 - 2
  • Preschool Storytime @ buybuyBABY (Industry City) @ 11
  • Historical Tour of Owl's Head Park @ Owls' Head Park @ 12 - 1
  • Young Dancers in Repertory Open House @ 5602 5th Ave, 2 floor @ 1 - 4
  • Saturday Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 3
  • Saturday Storytime @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 2:30 - 3
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SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 10:
  • Young Dancers in Repertory Open House @ 5602 5th Ave, 2 floor @ 1 - 4
  • Anti-racist Parenting Event: Author Led Storytelling (RSVP for location) @ 3 - 5

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MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 11:
  • Kids Create @ Dyker Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • Chess Club @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3:30 - 5
  • September 11 Memorial Ceremony @ 69th Street Pier @ 7:30 - 9


TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 12:
  • NYC Primary Elections
  • ​Open Play BRBM Special @ Play Days & Parties @ 10:30 - 12:30
  • Babies & Books @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10:30 & 11
  • BYOBaby Playdate @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 3:30 - 5
  • Kids Create @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • Yoga in the Park @ Shore Road Park (79th St) @ 6:30

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WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 13:
  • Lavender Blues @ Dimensions on Stage (7601 3rd Ave) @ 10
  • Toddler Time @ Dyker Library @ 10:15 & 11:15
  • Toddler Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10:30 & 11:15
  • The Buttons (kids concert) @ The Coop @ 11 - 11:45
  • Build with DUPLO @ Dyker Library @ 11 & 12
  • Kids Explore: LEGO Building @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4
  • Teen Tech Time: Nintendo WiiU @ Dyker Library @ 3:15 - 4:15
  • Rock and Roll Playhouse: Music of Bob Marley @ 274 36th Street Courtyard 1/2 (Industry City) @ 5:30
  • Mini Yogi's Class @ Raine and Riley's @ 6 - 6:30 (free trial night)
  • Get Zen! Kids Yoga Class @ Raine and Riley's @ 6:30 - 7 (free trial night)

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