US Japan Fam
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    • Day Trips & Activities
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Bay Ridge Area Kids Events Roundup: Nov 30 - Dec 6

11/27/2019

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Bay Ridge Families' Weekly Kids' Events Roundup November 30 - December 6, 2019
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 November 30 - December 6, 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 deadline.
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ONGOING:​​​
  • ~Dec 5 - Register for Fort Hamilton Holiday Market & Tree Lighting (free, on Dec 6)
  • ~Dec 14: Toys for Tots collection at buy buy BABY 
  • (July 29 until further notice): Play Days and Playdates will be closed except for Thursday Mommy & Me while owner recovers from surgery.
  • Family Friendly Day Trips & Weekend Getaway Idea
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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 30:
  • Happy "Small Business Saturday" - shop local!
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ McKinley Park Library @ 10 - 10:30
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime! @ Sunset Park Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • FREE - Holiday Crafts & Photos with Olaf & Elsa @ Leif Party Room @ 10:30 - 12
  • FREE - Family Frame Making Workshop @ PrintSpace @ 10:30 - 12:30
  • Open Lab: Tiny Scientists (ages 2-5) @ Urban STEAM Lab @ 11 - 1​
  • FREE - German Christmas Market (1:30-2:30 kids can make Gingerbread People) @ Schnitzel Haus @ 12 - 4
  • Holly Trolley Making all MTA bus stops on 5th (67th - 85th St) @ 12 - 4
  • Grand Opening of IC Ice Rink @ 51 35th Street Courtyard 5/6 @ 12 - 6
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 12:30 - 1
  • ​​FREE - Family DJ Dance Party - Salsa Sounds for Kids @ 274 36 St (Building 2 at The Landing) @ 1 - 2
  • FREE - Chess at 3 @ 237 36th St @ 1 - 5
  • FREE - Holiday Trolley (making B63 bus stops from 39th St. - 65th St) @ 1 - 5
  • FREE - Little Scientists @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Build with Duplo @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Magician in Residence @ 237 36th St @ 2 - 4
  • FREE - Arabic Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • FREE - Card Share Collage a Card @ PrintSpace @ 2:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime: Cantonese Storytime @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Build with Lego @ Sunset Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • Irish Music Saturdays @ 34 34th St @ 3 - 7
  • Cupcake Decorating @ Jean Danet French Pastry @ 3:15 - 3:45
  • Christmas Caroling @ 7428 5th Ave @ 4
  • Open Lab (5+) @ Urban STEAM Lab @ 4:30 - 7
SUNDAY, DECEMBER 1:
  • NYC Holiday Half Marathon @ 69th Street Pier @ 9 AM Start, 10:15 AM awards​
  • ​Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults ($10) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 9:30 - 11​​
  • Family Yoga Class @ Bay Ridge Yoga @ 11:30
  • SantaPaws Photo ($10) @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 12 - 4
  • FREE - Project K!d Seasonal Crafting @ 237 36th St @ 1 - 4
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MONDAY, DECEMBER 2:
  • Dr. Alex & Friends Singalong ($10) @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 10 - 11​​
  • FREE - Discovery Table @ McKinley Park Library @ 10 - 11
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • FREE - Cantonese Storytime @ McKinley Park Library @ 10:30 - 11:30
  • Tic Toc Spanish @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 12
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TUESDAY, DECEMBER 3:
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • ​​​Lavender Blues ($10) @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 10:30​
  • Open Lab: Tiny Scientists (ages 2-5) @ Urban STEAM Lab @ 12 - 2
  • BYOBaby Play Date ($5) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 3:30 - 5
  • FREE - Chess Workshop with Juan Tica @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Teen Manga Club @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
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WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 4:
  • ​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 - Babies and Books @ Sunset Park Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • FREE - Toddler Time @ Sunset Park Library @ 11:15 - 12
  • FREE - Toddler Time @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11:30 - 12
  • Tots & Toddler Little Brushes @ Pinot's Palette @ 12 - 1
  • FREE - La Hora Mágica de los Pequeños @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Build with LEGO @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Educator Open House at Dyker Library @ Dyker Library @ 3:30 - 5:30
  • FREE - Book Adventures @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Financing Your Education @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 6 - 7
  • FREE - Christmas Tree Lighting (with Santa) @ Dyker Park (86th & 14th) @ 6:30 PM
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THURSDAY, DECEMBER 5:
  • FREE - Babies & Books @ Dyker Library @ 1:15 - 2
  • FREE - Teen Tech Time @ McKinley Park Library @ 3:30 - 5
  • FREE - Dungeons and Dragons @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Chess Workshop with Reinaldo Duran Trujillo @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults ($10) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 6 - 7
  • FREE - Christmas Tree Lighting (with Santa) @ Shore Road Park (90th & Shore) ​@ 6:30 PM
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FRIDAY, DECEMBER 6:
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • FREE - 普通話故事時間 Mandarin Chinese Storytime @ Sunset Park Library @ 10:30 - 11:30
  • FREE - First Five Years Kids Create @ McKinley Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Build with Duplo @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Game On! @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Rock Painting Meeting @ Cocoa Grinder (Bay Ridge Ave) @ 5 - 7
  • FREE - Christmas Tree Lighting (with Santa) @ Investors Bank (7414 13th Ave) @ 6 - 8
  • 7th Annual Gingerbread Party @ The Art Room @ 6 - 8 PM ($55)
  • FREE -  Holiday Market & Tree Lighting (with Santa Photos) (reg. required) @ Fort Hamilton Army Base @ 4 - 9 PM (tree lighting @ 5:30)
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Festive Fun Family Fashion with Shinesty

11/26/2019

4 Comments

 
US Japan Fam in Shinesty Family Coordinating Christmas Outfits
Disclaimer: We were provided product from Shinesty and photos from Beyond Moments in exchange for this post. All thoughts and opinions are my own. In addition, this post includes some affiliate links - you won't pay more but we'll receive a small commission from purchases made after clicking.
No matter the holiday or theme, Shinesty has an outfit to let you get as festive and cheesy as your heart desires! While they focus mainly on men's and women's funky fashion, they also have a great selection of children's and family coordinating options! Did you see us rocking our snowflake outfits last year?? Well, this year we're back for another collab with Shinesty, outfitted in my favorite of their Christmas line - the "Lincoln Log" pattern!

Our outfits arrived just in time for our Holiday mini photoshoot with Beyond Moments Photography, a new mom & dad photography team here in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn. Look at how stinkin' cute these photos came out!!! If you're local, stay tuned - they'll be offering more mini photo shoot pop ups in the coming weeks!!
US Japan Fam in Shinesty Family Coordinating Christmas Outfits
US Japan Fam in Shinesty Family Coordinating Christmas Outfits
So, ok, I guess I'll have to stop gushing over those photos and get on with the review right!? Here's what we're wearing:
On Me:
Lincoln Log Love Lady Christmas Suit Jacket ($69) and Christmas Skirt ($59.99). The material is fabulous, smooth and a bit silky, high waisted with a hidden zipper. The skirt has pockets, which are convenient, and they're slimly tucked away, not adding bulk to your hips. I would suggest considering ordering a size down in the jacket as it's not especially fitted.
US Japan Fam in Shinesty Family Coordinating Christmas Outfits
On The Boys:
My husband is sporting the full Lincoln Log Love Daddy Christmas Suit ($99) - you can independently select jacket and pant size (waist only though, so they're super long on my short hubby), and can select tie or bow tie. My son however, quickly hijacked the tie, which looks adorbs, right? Kenzo is also sporting the Christmas pants, which feature a comfy easy to fit elastic waist.
US Japan Fam in Shinesty Family Coordinating Christmas Outfits
On The Twins:
They were low on stock when we ordered (and out of stock on many things now so plan ahead if wanting to get these for another holiday or next Christmas, it'd be smart to order by Halloween), so we couldn't get my twins identical dresses, but that kinda worked out nicely! Mia, below far left, is wearing the Lincoln Log Little Lady Christmas Dress (in XS, age 3-4; $34.99) which was long but otherwise fit pretty well. Emi, below far right, is wearing Toddler Christmas Dress (in size 5T, $29.99), which was shorter (and too big because she needed a 4T but nothing a quick fold under of the sleeves couldn't fix). Great news is that these will still fit them next year, score!!
US Japan Fam in Shinesty Family Coordinating Christmas Outfits
So, what do you think!? ​​I love love love this pattern, but they have many to choose from, and not just Christmas! They've got Hannukah, New Year's, Thanksgiving, NFL, ski wear, crazy bathing suits and boxers, pajamas, you name it, even OREO apparel (yes, you read that right)!! Head on over to Shinesty to do some Holiday shopping!!

But first, comment below! How do you dress for family photos? Do you have a stash of Ugly Christmas Sweaters? Do you have any family coordinating outfits? I gotta say I'm a total sucker for them!!! Don't miss my post on the fab budget-friendly graphic tees over at Target!!
4 Comments

Bay Ridge Area Kids Events Roundup: Nov 23 - 29

11/22/2019

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Kids' Events in Bay Ridge November 23 - 29, 2019
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 November 23 - 29, 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 deadline.
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ONGOING:​
  • Enter to win our $560 value Baby Goodies Giveaway (ending 11/26 @ 11:59PM)
  • Sponsor a Family - Operation Gobbler Giving
  • Sign up as a Bay Ridge Cares' Thanksgiving Dinner Volunteer (children welcome)
  • ~Nov 23, Saturdays 8am-3pm: ​Bay Ridge Greenmarket @ Walgreen's Parking Lot (9408 3rd Ave)
  • ~Nov 24, Sundays 9am-4pm: Bensonhurst Greenmarket @ Milestone Park (18th Ave, 81-82nd St)
  • Contact Bay Ridge Cares if you know of someone housebound or alone in need of a Thanksgiving Meal, or sign up to donate or deliver meals and desserts
  • ~Dec 5 - Register for Fort Hamilton Holiday Market & Tree Lighting (free, on Dec 6)
  • ~Dec 14: Toys for Tots collection at buy buy BABY 
  • (July 29 until further notice): Play Days and Playdates will be closed except for Thursday Mommy & Me while owner recovers from surgery.
  • Family Friendly Day Trips & Weekend Getaway Idea
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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 23:
  • Breakfast with Santa @ Our Lady of Grace @ 9 - 11 AM
  • ​FREE - Christmas Market @ St. Patricks Catholic Academy @ 9 - 5
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ McKinley Park Library @ 10 - 10:30
  • Christmas Fair @ Our Lady of Grace @ 10 AM - 7 PM (digital Santa photos @ 2 - 4)
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime! @ Sunset Park Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11 - 11:45
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Dyker Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Sunset Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • Open Lab: Tiny Scientists (ages 2-5) @ Urban STEAM Lab @ 11 - 1​
  • Petco Mobile Adoption @ Industry City @ 12 - 4
  • Bake Sale @ Dyker Library @ 12 - 4
  • ​​FREE - Family DJ Dance Party - Music of Rhianna for Kids @ IC Courtyard 5/6 @ 1 - 2
  • FREE - Chess at 3 @ 237 36th St @ 1 - 5
  • FREE - Little Scientists @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • Build with Duplo @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FHHS Theater Production: Arsenic & Old Lace @ Fort Hamilton High School @ 2
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime: Cantonese Storytime @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Build with Lego @ Sunset Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • Open Lab (5+) @ Urban STEAM Lab @ 4:30 - 7
  • Parents Survival Night Out Dropoff @ The Little Gym @ 5 - 8
  • Baking Mini Pies and Making Thankful Notes @ AJ's Bakeshop @ 6:30 - 8 PM ($15)
  • FHHS Theater Production: Arsenic & Old Lace @ Fort Hamilton High School @ 7
  • Elf the Musical @ Fort Hamilton Army Base Theater @ 8
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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 24:
  • FREE - Christmas Market @ St. Patricks Catholic Academy @ 9 - 5
  • Christmas Fair @ Our Lady of Grace @ 9 AM - 5 PM (digital Santa photos @ 2 - 4)
  • ​Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults ($10) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 9:30 - 11​​
  • Operation Christmas Child Event @ Christ Central / Beyond Dance @ 9:30 - 11:30 AM ​
  • Family Yoga Class @ Bay Ridge Yoga @ 11:30
  • Family Yoga with Gratitude @ Pure Life Movement @ 1 - 1:45 PM
  • Elf the Musical @ Fort Hamilton Army Base Theater @ 2
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 25:
  • Dr. Alex & Friends Singalong ($10) @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 10 - 11​​
  • FREE - Discovery Table @ McKinley Park Library @ 10 - 11
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • FREE - Cantonese Storytime @ McKinley Park Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • Tic Toc Spanish @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Kids Tech Time @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Kids Create: Bay Ridge Rocks @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 26:
  • FREE - StoryPlay @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 & 11
  • ​​​Lavender Blues ($10) @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 10:30​
  • FREE - Babies and Books @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • FREE - Toddler Time @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11:30 - 12
  • Open Lab: Tiny Scientists (ages 2-5) @ Urban STEAM Lab @ 12 - 2
  • BYOBaby Play Date ($5) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center) @ 3:30 - 5
  • FREE - Chess Workshop with Juan Tica @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - DIY for Teens @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 27:
  • ​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 @ Sunset Park Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • FREE - Coloring for kids @ Dyker Library @ 11 - 1:30
  • FREE - Toddler Time @ Sunset Park Library @ 11:15 - 12
  • FREE - La Hora Mágica de los Pequeños @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Teen Lounge @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 3:45
  • FREE - Build with LEGO @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Teen Anime Club @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Library Lab @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 28:
  • Happy Thanksgiving!!! Alt Side Parking Suspended, Schools Closed
  • Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults ($10) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ **special time** 10 - 11 AM
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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 29:
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - First Five Years Kids Create @ McKinley Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • "Buddy the Elf" Little Brushes @ Pinot's Palette @ 12 - 2
  • FREE - Game On! @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Parents Night Out Dropoff @ Bounce U @ 6 - 8:30
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The Best Diaper Bag Ever: The Vianetic Diaper Backpack

11/21/2019

5 Comments

 
US Japan Fam reviews the BEST DIAPER BAG EVER - The Vianetic Diaper Backpack
Disclaimer: This post was sponsored by Vianetic, but all thoughts and opinions are my own and completely unbiased. Additionally, this post includes some affiliate links - we'll receive a small commission from purchases made after clicking.
Of course The Vianetic aka the BEST DIAPER BAG EVER launched after my families' diapering days were over, but that doesn't mean I can't review it for you guys, and of course keep it for my own personal use, because this thing goes way beyond managing diapers!! We're actually giving away one Vianetic diaper bag in my $560 value jackpot Baby Goodies Giveaway, so don't forget to enter to win by November 26!

For the best introduction to this diaper bag, you'll need to watch my Vianetic demo video. As I walk you through each of the 21+ features of this bag, you'll be able to truly appreciate just how amazing it is!! So watch it here and then keep reading for more detailed photos and info:
Unbelievable Storage & Organization:
The biggest thing that sets Vianetic apart from the crowd is its organizational capabilities. It's not your average backpack that opens from the top into a cavernous mess. Oh no. The front panel pulls completely open (via pull tab magnet, no less) to give you a beautifully organized (with velcro  panels or fully inclosed zippered container) view of your contents.

Attached (but removable) to this front panel is your easy to wipe clean diaper changing pad. So you could sit the backpack in your SUV's trunk or a park bench, open it up and change your baby right there without taking anything apart.

It also has a separate compartment on the bottom of the backpack (pictured top right in below image), and another in the back, meant for your laptop (pictured below on bottom right).
US Japan Fam reviews the BEST DIAPER BAG EVER - The Vianetic Diaper Backpack
Multiple Carrying Options:
While it serves most obviously as a backpack to be carried, well, on your back, it also has a really nifty ability to quickly convert to be carried or stowed in other ways.  The straps are detachable so you can use as a standard 2 strap backpack or a cross body bag. The chest clips on each strap actually move up and down the strap, and have magnetic quick release buttons. These allow you to quickly hang or release it from the back of a stroller or the car's headrest, for example! Don't forget, it also has the luggage passthrough section on the back!
US Japan Fam reviews the BEST DIAPER BAG EVER - The Vianetic Diaper Backpack - carry as backpack, on stroller, on car seat
21+ Features:
Some of these have been mentioned above, but let's just go ahead and list some of the very cool and unique features you'll find on or in your Vianetic:
  • Thermal Pack - this is a separate bag that comes inside your Vianetic bag. It says it can hold 3 baby bottles or ice pack and several food containers. AND a full sized bottle of wine. Yep! See me prove it in my YouTube Demo!
  • Detachable diaper changing pad (can be used without detaching it; easy to clean)
  • Sun glass holders on each strap
  • Laptop compartment in back (large 20L holds up to 15", smaller 16L  holds up to 13")
  • External USB plug
  • Wet/Dry compartment
  • Rain cover
  • Side pockets for water bottle or other items, can be tucked in or out of the way when not in use
  • Standing feet - stands nicely on its own
  • Hidden passport pocket
  • Keyring / Side access
  • Lots of back & strap padding
  • tons of extra pockets and compartments in every nook and cranny!
US Japan Fam reviews the BEST DIAPER BAG EVER - The Vianetic Diaper Backpack - 21+ features!!
So what do you think!? Pretty amazing diaper bag, am I right!? But it'll serve you beyond that - use it for a travel bag, a work bag, or just your daily bag for getting around town!!

Don't forget, you can win one in my $560 value Baby Goodies Giveaway running through November 26!

Enter to win here!!

If you don't win, don't fret - they'll be having some great Black Friday deals and other deals as well. Right now I'm seeing a code for $40 off the Mini on their website! 

Don't miss our reviews of the must haves for getting around with babies through big kid:
  • Wonderfold Wagon
  • Evenflo Pivot Xpand Single to Double Stroller
5 Comments

Baby Goodies Giveaway ($560 Value Jackpot)

11/18/2019

73 Comments

 
US Japan Fam's Baby Goodies Giveaway - $560 value jackpot!
*Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post but all thoughts and opinions are my own and completely unbiased. This post also contains affiliate links - you don't pay more but we receive a small commission from purchases made after clicking.
Who's ready for another amazing giveaway!?!? This one features loads of amazing products for babies and young families! We're talking diaper bag, sleep sack, diaper pail, nasal aspirator, gift boxes of goodies for baby's first year of life, and more - a $560 value jackpot! Enter to win in the Rafllecopter app at the bottom, but first, read all about the great products and brands!!

us japan fam's baby goodies giveaway - the vianetic diaper bag
The Vianetic Diaper Bag
Who says a diaper bag has to look like one?! This sleek and sophisticated diaper bag is about as cool as they come, and is jam packed with over 21 thoughtful and logistical features! First of all, it zips open from the front instead of at the top, so you immediately have access to everything inside, which can be compartmentalized in many different ways (check out the image above right to see what I mean). The detachable diaper pad flips down with the front, making changing baby on the go easier than ever. You can use it as a backpack or shoulder bag, or even attach it to the back of your stroller. It has a luggage passthrough, laptop compartment, USB port, sun glasses holder on one of the straps (possibly my favorite feature), magnetic chest strap, wet/dry compartments... I could go on and on (and I do in my full blog review here)! Because of it's versatility and modern-look, this bag will get your family through the diaper years and last for years to come after (likely graduating to become your new work bag). Our grand prize winner will receive one Vianetic Diaper Bag in their choice of color and size!
  • SHOP: $199 for the 16L size bag, $259 for the bigger 20L size on thevianetic.com or Amazon (affiliate link)

us japan fam's baby goodies giveaway - antipodes merino baby sleeping bag
Antipodes Merino Baby Sleeping Bag
With roomy width and length and adjustable snaps on the shoulders and under the arms, the Antipodes Merino sleeping bag adjusts to fit your baby from 3 - 24 months! There is a two way zipper that goes across the bottom and one side (see above left image for a visual), so that you can change diapers without removing the sleep sack. Additionally, it has a seat belt slot, which means that you can buckle baby in and out of a swing, stroller, or high chair without removing the sleep sack. Brilliant, am I right!?! They feature a unique double layer of 100% natural merino wool on the chest, and 100% jersey cotton elsewhere meaning they can be worn year round - simply adjust the layers worn underneath based on room temperature. Our grand prize winner will receive one sleeping bag in their choice of color.
  • SHOP Antipodes Merino Sleep Bags ($80-110) on antipodesmerino.com or Amazon (affiliate link)

us japan fam's baby goodies giveaway - Noobie Box A Year of Wonders
Noobie Box - A Year of Wonders
Now, I know we usually recommend sticking to the baby registry when buying an expecting parent a gift. But in the case of a Noobie Box, if it's not on their registry it's probably only because they didn't know about it! They have boxes for different themes, including a free pregnancy gift box (you just pay shipping), a parents box, nursing box, and 4 baby gift boxes based on age over the period of baby's first year, which can be purchased separately or as a set. This set is called "A Year of Wonders" and is included in the jackpot of this very giveaway!! Our grand prize winner will receive the lump sum shipment all at once (retailing for $120), but it can also be purchased as a subscription to send one box at a time. You'll get the Noobie Nest (for 0+ months), Noobie Play (3+ months), Noobie Eat (6+ months), and Noobie One (9+ months)! These aren't sample items either, they include 5 full sized products in each box that you will looooove!!
  • SHOP all Noobie Boxes on noobiebox.com

us japan fam's baby goodies giveaway - Dekor Diaper Pail
Dékor Diaper Pail
Changing diapers isn't the most glorious part of parenting, but there's no reason your diaper pail has to be stinky, ugly, or a pain to use. None of these are an issue if you have a ​Dékor Hands-Free Diaper Pail, which allows you to step on the pedal, drop the diaper through the trap door, and be done - no twisting or bending required! Refills are one continuous liner, so you can empty as often as you like. And Dékor Diaper Pails are made with ABS closed-cell plastic that doesn't absorb odor, is safe to clean, and won't rust. Our grand prize winner will receive their pail in color and size of their choice. Options include Mini, Classic, and Plus, the latter has the largest opening and can be used with their disposable liners or their washable cloth diaper liner! Be sure to follow them on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram.
  • SHOP for Dékor Diaper Pails on Target or Amazon (affiliate link)

us japan fam's baby goodies giveaway - Arianna Baby-Vac Nasal Aspirator
Baby-Vac Nasal Aspirator
When babies and young children get congested, it can be hard to keep their nasal passages clear. It's necessary not just for their comfort, but to also lower the risk of secondary infections settling in! That is where Baby-Vac Nasal Aspirator comes to the rescue. A small, simple, and affordable option that does a better job of cleaning out baby's nose than any other home device I have tried (and I've tried about 10!!!). It hooks up to any vacuum hose (with a diameter of 0.90 to 1.22 inches & 800-1800 watts), but don't worry, it has a self-regulating valve so it's just enough suction to do the job but not enough to hurt (we've tried it on ourselves, there's no discomfort whatsoever). The secretions do not go into the vacuum, but are trapped in the chamber of the device and you can simply wash it out after each use. It's such a brilliant product, they even sell it at my pediatrician's office! Our grand prize winner will receive one set!
  • SHOP: $19.99 on Amazon (affiliate link)

us japan fam's baby goodies giveaway - Wubba Water Organic Electrolyte Drink for Kids
Wubba Water Electrolyte Drinks
Sick babies and young children can get dangerously dehydrated very quickly when sick wtih Flu or a tummy bug. It's a good idea to keep a supply of electrolyte drinks and ice pops at home for when the time comes. But before you stock up on electrolyte replacement drinks for the family, let me ask - did you know electrolyte replacement drinks tend to be full of artificial colors, flavors and sweeteners? Big Bang Beverages wasn't too thrilled with that, so they created an organic and healthier alternative to Pedialyte: Wubba Water, a children's hydration drink free of synthetic dyes, artificial flavors, artificial sweeteners, and GMO's! Colored only with fruit and vegetable extracts and having only 1 gram of organic sugar per serving, Wubba Water is a healthier way for your little one to replenish water and electrolytes when sick (and they'll get a Vitamin C boost to boot)! Our winner will receive 2 bottles of each flavor - blue raspberry, fruit punch, and orange, a $15 value.
  • SHOP: at Whole Foods (in NYC, CT & NJ), at local health food stores (Maine - NJ), and online at Walmart.com and Amazon (affiliate link).
  • NOTE: Please consult with your pediatrician about when, how much, and how often to give electrolyte drink to your sick child, especially if under 1 year old.

So there you have it! Amazing jackpot of products for babies, am I right!? Enter to win in the Rafflecopter app below. To enter, you must leave a blog comment and push the button in the app that you did so. No more actions are required, BUT each additional action you take will earn you extra entry points, and some options can be done daily! So come back each day to increase your chances to win! Open to US residents ages 18+.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
73 Comments

Bay Ridge Area Kids Events Roundup: Nov 16 - 22

11/15/2019

1 Comment

 
Bay Ridge Famililes' Weekly Kids' Events Roundup November 16 - 22, 2019
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 November 16 - 22, 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 deadline.
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ONGOING:
  • BUY TICKETS NOW for our Ba(b)y Ridge MamaCon, Sunday, November 17 @ 11AM - 2PM, "From Bumps to Babies in Bay Ridge", the first event of its kind here in Bay Ridge! Expert panelists, great vendors, amazing giveaways, and new mama friends! Get 50% off tickets with code "halfoff"​
  • Sponsor a Family - Operation Gobbler Giving
  • Sign up as a Bay Ridge Cares' Thanksgiving Dinner Volunteer (children welcome)
  • ~Nov 23, Saturdays 8am-3pm: ​Bay Ridge Greenmarket @ Walgreen's Parking Lot (9408 3rd Ave)
  • ~Nov 24, Sundays 9am-4pm: Bensonhurst Greenmarket @ Milestone Park (18th Ave, 81-82nd St)
  • Contact Bay Ridge Cares if you know of someone housebound or alone in need of a Thanksgiving Meal, or sign up to donate or deliver meals and desserts
  • ~Dec 5 - Register for Fort Hamilton Holiday Market & Tree Lighting (free, on Dec 6)
  • ~Dec 14: Toys for Tots collection at buy buy BABY 
  • (July 29 until further notice): Play Days and Playdates will be closed except for Thursday Mommy & Me while owner recovers from surgery.
  • Family Friendly Day Trips & Weekend Getaway Idea
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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 16:
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ McKinley Park Library @ 10 - 10:30
  • Children's Origami @ 51 35th St @ 10 - 11 ($15)
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime! @ Sunset Park Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11 - 11:45
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Dyker Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Sunset Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Thanksgiving Party @ buy buy BABY @ 11 - 1
  • FREE - E-Waste Recycling & Doc Shredding @ St. Anselm @ 11 - 1
  • Open Lab: Tiny Scientists (ages 2-5) @ Urban STEAM Lab @ 11 - 1​
  • "Llamaste" Little Brushes ($38) @ Pinot's Palette @ 12 - 2
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 12:30 - 1
  • ​​FREE - Family DJ Dance Party - Music of Bob Marley for Kids @ IC Courtyard 5/6 @ 1 - 2
  • Yoga & Mindfulness Taster for Teens @ Omn Vibe Yoga Studio @ 1 - 2
  • FREE - Chess at 3 @ 237 36th St @ 1 - 5
  • FREE - Little Scientists @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Build with Duplo @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - "The Young Tribesman" by Paul Broderick Storytime @ Bookmark Shoppe @ 2 - 3
  • ​FREE - Magician in Residence @ 237 36th St @ 2 - 4
  • FREE - Uptown Rock Painting Party at Cocoa Grinder Gold (9302 4th) @ 2 - 4
  • FREE - Arabic Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime: Cantonese Storytime @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Build with Lego @ Sunset Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • Open Lab (5+) @ Urban STEAM Lab @ 4:30 - 7
  • Elf the Musical @ Fort Hamilton Army Base Theater @ 8
SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 17:
  • Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults ($10) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 9:30 - 11​​
  • Ba(b)y Ridge MamaCon (pre-purchased tix required) @ Lutheran Elementary School @ 11 - 2
  • Family Yoga Class @ Bay Ridge Yoga @ 11:30
  • FREE - Project K!d: Seasonal Crafting @ 850 3rd / 237 36th St @ 1 - 4
  • Elf the Musical @ Fort Hamilton Army Base Theater @ 2
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 18:
  • Dr. Alex & Friends Singalong ($10) @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 10 - 11​​
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • FREE - Cantonese Storytime @ McKinley Park Library @ 10:30 - 11:30
  • Tic Toc Spanish @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Teen Tech Time @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4
  • FREE - Lecture on Myopia (Nearsightedness) & Pediatric Eye Health @ CP Eye Institute @ 6 - 7:30
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TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 19:
  • FREE - StoryPlay @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 & 11
  • ​​Lavender Blues ($10) @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 10:30​
  • FREE - Project K!d: Seasonal Crafting @ 850 3rd / 237 36th St @ 12 - 2
  • Open Lab: Tiny Scientists (ages 2-5) @ Urban STEAM Lab @ 12 - 2
  • FREE - Read and Play @ Sunset Park Library @ 1 - 1:45
  • FREE - Teen Time @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • BYOBaby Play Date ($5) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center) @ 3:30 - 5
  • FREE - Chess Workshop with Juan Tica @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - DIY for Teens @ McKinely Park Library @ 4 - 5 
  • FREE - After School Stories @ Sunset Park Library @ 4:30 - 5:30
  • FREE - Loss & Infertility Roundtable @ Il Centro @ 6:30 - 8
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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 20:
  • ​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 @ Sunset Park Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • FREE - Babies and Books @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • FREE - Toddler Time @ Sunset Park Library @ 11:15 - 12
  • FREE - Toddler Time @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11:30 - 12
  • FREE - La Hora Mágica de los Pequeños @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Teen Lounge @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 3:45
  • FREE - Build with LEGO @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Teen Anime Club @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Kids Create @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • FHHS Theater Production: Arsenic & Old Lace @ Fort Hamilton High School @ 4
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 21:
  • Mommy & Me with Miss Darlene @ Play Days & Parties @ 10 - 12​​​
  • Zumbini Trial Class ($20) @ Bay Ridge Yoga @ 11:30 - 12:15
  • FREE - Friends-Giving @ Fort Hamilton Senior Rec Center @ 12 - 3
  • FREE - Babies & Books @ Dyker Library @ 1:15 - 2
  • FREE - Teen Tech Time @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4
  • FREE - Kids Create @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Kids Create: Arts and Crafts @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • FREE - Teen Tech Time @ McKinley Park Library @ 3:30 - 5
  • FREE - Dungeons and Dragons @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Chess Workshop with Reinaldo Duran Trujillo @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults ($10) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 6 - 7
  • FHHS Theater Production: Arsenic & Old Lace @ Fort Hamilton High School @ 7
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 22:
  • FREE - 普通話故事時間 Mandarin Chinese Storytime @ Sunset Park Library @ 10:30 - 11:30
  • FREE - StoryPlay 11am @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11 - 11:45
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - First Five Years Kids Create @ McKinley Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Kids Create @ Dyker Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Karaoke for Kids @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Game On! @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Tot Shabbat @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 5:30 - 6:30
  • FHHS Theater Production: Arsenic & Old Lace @ Fort Hamilton High School @ 7
  • Elf the Musical @ Fort Hamilton Army Base Theater @ 8
1 Comment

Our Family Vacation at Greek Peak Mountain Resort

11/13/2019

15 Comments

 
US Japan Fam reviews Greek Peak Mountain Resort for a Family Vacation Destination
Searching for a family-friendly vacation spot that was relatively midway between our home in NYC and my sister's home in Montreal, I stumbled upon Greek Peak Mountain Resort in upstate New York, near Cortland. After scoping out their indoor water park and outdoor adventure center online, I knew it would be amazing! I reached out and they were kind enough to provide our accommodation and activities free of charge in exchange for this review, but as always, all thoughts and opinions are my own and completely unbiased!
To get the best feel of Greek Peak, be sure to watch our full YouTube video which features highlights from the hotel and our time there, including the moment my sister's family arrived and totally surprised my son who had no idea they would be coming down to meet us! It was such a beautiful tear-filled moment!!!
The drive wasn't bad, it was about 3.5 hours from Brooklyn. You actually drive through the Poconos, which is the more typical mountainous region New Yorkers escape to, but it was worth the extra time on the road to explore a new area! It was a bit further trek from Montreal, I think it took them about 4.5 hours. Knowing we'd booked the huge Cedar River Suite (with 2 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, a living room and full kitchen), we stopped at Walmart to stock up on breakfast, lunch, and snack supplies to save money and sanity. As a family with 3 young children, we find eating out to not be so much of a luxury anymore as it is a very stressful experience most of the time, so being able to have a relaxing breakfast and lunch in the room really makes it an enjoyable home-away-from-home experience in my opinion!! Now cooking dinner is another thing altogether, that's a hard pass for me on vacations, so we always dine out (covered further down in the review).
US Japan Fam reviews Greek Peak Mountain Resort for a Family Vacation Destination - Accommodations
Hope Lake Lodge is beautiful. A modern rustic lodge vibe, very clean and new feeling or at least very well maintained. Our suite slept 10 with an independent bedroom and bathroom on each side of the living room / kitchen room, so each of our families had our own space that we could escape to for a quieter bedtime routine or getting ready for the pool. But our kids could sneak out into the living room to play in the morning while the parents slept. All without leaving the suite! That was pretty sweet, wink wink! Not only did we have a fully equipped kitchen with fridge, microwave, stove/oven, and dishwasher, but it also came stocked with not-your-average-minibar! We're talking a huge basket of candy, sodas in the fridge, and check out the Greek Peak wine, champaign, and vodka bottle in the picture below! Of course, anything opened is added to your bill, but we couldn't help but pop open a bottle of wine, which was perfection, and at just $25, totally fairly priced!
US Japan Fam reviews Greek Peak Mountain Resort for a Family Vacation Destination - wine & lobby
The lobby was gorgeous! They were actually preparing for a wedding in the lobby when we arrived, that's how stunning it is! They do a lot of weddings at Greek Peak, I'm sure you can imagine, whether indoors or outdoors or even on the top of a mountain, they have people tying the knot all over! Speaking of mountaintops, that's where we headed first!! The Adventure Center is across the street from Hope Lake Lodge (they recommended driving but you could definitely walk) and features lots of seasonal and year-round activities. We hit it at an odd time because summer activities (zip line, eurobungee, high ropes course, bounce house, and slide) were closed and snow tubing winter activity wasn't open yet. Zipline is year round. As is the Mountain Coaster, which is the one we decided to try.

Kids must be a minimum of 3 years old AND 38" tall to ride. Kids between 38-54" must ride with an adult. So, had we gone just my family of 5 we would only have been able to send one parent and child at a time which would have kinda stunk. Luckily, with my sister's family, their son was old enough to go by himself which left us with one adult per child, hooray!! And the Mountain Coaster guys, is FUN FUN FUN and scary but mostly FUN!!! It's a little go cart looking thing, on rails, and you ride it to the top of the mountain and then it releases you and you end up going about 30 miles per hour down the mountain, twists and turns, crazy fast and absolutely thrilling. Don't miss this part of our video guys!!! My son filmed one time forward so you can get the feeling that you are riding along, and my niece filmed another time to show our screaming faces LOL! It is cold though, so bundle up!!!
US Japan Fam reviews Greek Peak Mountain Resort for a Family Vacation Destination - Adventure Center Mountain Coaster
After screaming our lungs out on the Mountain Coaster, we headed back to the hotel for dinner at Acorn Lodge. The menu and list of specials had some really great options, including Elk burger and kielbasa & pierogi! Kids menu with crayons and coloring as well, which is always welcome! 
US Japan Fam reviews Greek Peak Mountain Resort for a Family Vacation Destination - Acorn Grill
After a great night's sleep (it was really quiet and the beds were cozy), we woke up refreshed and ready for a full day at Cascades Indoor Waterpark, which was just down the hall from our suite!! Unless you buy a special package, these passes are not included in your stay. And people not staying at the resort can buy day passes as well. Kids under 24 months are free and rates vary but they have some great specials, for example Tuesdays are BOGO! 
US Japan Fam reviews Greek Peak Mountain Resort for a Family Vacation Destination - Cascades Indoor Waterpark
The waterpark is kept at 84 degrees year round, so it was nice and warm (not quite as warm once wet but better than most other indoor water parks we've been to!). The wave pool was probably my favorite attraction, I haven't been to one in over a decade and it was the first time for my kids. Emi loved jumping in the waves, and Kenzo and Mia loved riding the waves in the water tubes. The water slides were also really great, they had 4 big ones but my girls were too short for those and could only go on the little ones in the baby and toddler areas. My son was not tall enough to ride alone but could ride the double one, which was great fun to do together! 
US Japan Fam reviews Greek Peak Mountain Resort for a Family Vacation Destination - Cascades Indoor Waterpark
They also had a little pool with basketball hoops in it, an indoor/outdoor jacuzzi but you had to be 6 years old to go in that. And they had a heated pool that you could access from inside. I tried it. Once. The trick is not to do it with wet hair or face, and keep the rest of your body below the water. Then you'll survive. Ha! Seriously though, my kids couldn't get enough of it! It was kind of surreal, being in the pool and seeing the ski slopes and your breath in the air. Brrrr!!!
US Japan Fam reviews Greek Peak Mountain Resort for a Family Vacation Destination - Cascades Indoor Waterpark
There was a fast food type of cafe in the pool area, but your wristbands are good all day so we chose to dry off and have lunch back in our room, and we went back for more fun after lunch. Our final activity at the hotel before heading home was a quick trip to the Bear Foot Den, which is their children's center. They have drop-off babysitting by appointment (for a fee), but during their open hours anyone can stop by to play. They had a toy house and kitchen, dolls, and toys for little ones. Board games, Wii, and movies for older kids or teens. Really something for everyone, and a great space for families to come spend some time together!
US Japan Fam reviews Greek Peak Mountain Resort for a Family Vacation Destination - Bear Foot Den Childrens Center
I can't get over what a good time we had at Greek Peak. It was so great to see my sister's family and let the kids have cousin time, and even greater to be able to do it all at such a wonderful resort! Making unforgettable memories with family, that is what vacation is all about, and Greek Peak is where to do it!!! Whether you go for skiing, snowboarding, and tubing in winter, or go in summer to hike and lay out on their lake's white sandy beach, you will have an amazing time!! To read more about Greek Peak or book your next vacation, head to greekpeak.net!
US Japan Fam reviews Greek Peak Mountain Resort for a Family Vacation Destination
Go here for our list of family-friendly day trips and getaways from NYC!
15 Comments

Bay Ridge Area Kids Events Roundup: Nov 9 - 15

11/8/2019

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 November 9 - 15, 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 deadline.
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ONGOING:
  • BUY TICKETS NOW for our Ba(b)y Ridge MamaCon, Sunday, November 17 @ 11AM - 2PM, "From Bumps to Babies in Bay Ridge", the first event of its kind here in Bay Ridge! Expert panelists, great vendors, amazing giveaways, and new mama friends! Get 50% off tickets with code "halfoff"
  • ~ Nov 12: Request for Gifted & Talented Testing (children born in 2012-2015) by November 12 here (learn more here, note dates are from last year but info is the same)
  • ~ Nov 15: Grandma's Love Thanksgiving Food Drive
  • Sponsor a Family - Operation Gobbler Giving
  • Sign up as a Bay Ridge Cares' Thanksgiving Dinner Volunteer (children welcome)
  • ~Nov 23, Saturdays 8am-3pm: ​Bay Ridge Greenmarket @ Walgreen's Parking Lot (9408 3rd Ave)
  • ~Nov 24, Sundays 9am-4pm: Bensonhurst Greenmarket @ Milestone Park (18th Ave, 81-82nd St)
  • ~Dec 5 - Register for Fort Hamilton Holiday Market & Tree Lighting (free, on Dec 6)
  • (July 29 until further notice): Play Days and Playdates will be closed except for Thursday Mommy & Me while owner recovers from surgery.
  • Family Friendly Day Trips & Weekend Getaway Ideas
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SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 9:
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ McKinley Park Library @ 10 - 10:30
  • Children's Origami @ 51 35th St @ 10 - 11 ($15)
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime! @ Sunset Park @ 10:30 - 11
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11 - 11:45
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Sunset Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Dyker Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - WonderSpark Puppets @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 12
  • Open Lab: Tiny Scientists (ages 2-5) @ Urban STEAM Lab @ 11 - 1​
  • Mobile Pet Adoption @ My Natural Pet @ 12 - 4
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 12:30 - 1
  • ​​FREE - Family DJ Dance Party - Music of The Beatles for Kids @ IC Courtyard 5/6 @ 1 - 2
  • FREE - Chess at 3 @ 237 36th St @ 1 - 5
  • FREE - Little Scientists @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Build with Duplo @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • ​FREE - Magician in Residence @ 237 36th St @ 2 - 4
  • FREE - Arabic Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • FREE - Build with Lego @ Sunset Park Library @ 3 - 4
  • ​"Winter Sloth" Family Day Paint @ Pinot's Palette @ 4 - 6
  • Open Lab (5+) @ Urban STEAM Lab @ 4:30 - 7
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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 10:
  • Flea Market @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 9 - 4
  • Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults ($10) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 9:30 - 11​​
  • FREE - Fall Foliage Walk @ Owls Head Park @ 1 - 2:30
  • FREE - Open House @ Beyond Dance @ 2 - 5 
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 11:
  • Veterans' Day! Alt Side Parking Suspended, Schools Closed, Free meals & drinks for veterans at select locations today!
  • Day Camp @ Urban STEAM Lab @ 8 - 6
  • Cancelled - Dr. Alex & Friends Singalong ($10) @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 10 - 11​
  • FREE - WonderSpark Puppets @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 12
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 12:
  • FREE - Shore Road Park (97th St) Dog Run Visioning Session @ 7 - 10:30 
  • FREE - StoryPlay 10am @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 10:45
  • ​​Lavender Blues ($10) @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 10:30​
  • FREE - StoryPlay 11am @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11 - 11:45
  • Open Lab: Tiny Scientists (ages 2-5) @ Urban STEAM Lab @ 12 - 2
  • FREE - Read and Play @ Sunset Park Library @ 1 - 1:45
  • FREE - Teen Time @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
  • BYOBaby Play Date ($5) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center) @ 3:30 - 5
  • FREE - Chess Workshop with Juan Tica @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - DIY for Teens @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - After School Stories @ Sunset Park Library @ 4:30 - 5:30
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WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 13:
  • ​Lavender Blues ($20) @ Dimensions on Stage @ 10 - 10:40​
  • FREE - Toy Time @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 - 12
  • FREE - Babies and Books @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • FREE - Babies and Books @ Sunset Park Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • FREE - Puppet Show: Anansi the Spider @ Dyker Library @ 10:30 - 11:30
  • FREE - Toddler Time @ Sunset Park Library @ 11:15 - 12
  • FREE - Toddler Time  @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11:30 - 12
  • FREE - La Hora Mágica de los Pequeños  @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Teen Lounge @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 3:45
  • FREE - Build with LEGO @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Kids Create @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 14:
  • Mommy & Me with Miss Darlene @ Play Days & Parties @ 10 - 12​​
  • FREE - Babies & Books @ Dyker Library @ 1:15 - 2
  • FREE - Teen Tech Time @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4
  • FREE - Teen Tech Time @ McKinley Park Library @ 3:30 - 5
  • FREE - Dungeons and Dragons @ Bay Ridge Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Chess Workshop with Reinaldo Duran Trujillo @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults ($10) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 6 - 7
FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 15:
  • FREE - 普通話故事時間 Mandarin Chinese Storytime @ Sunset Park Library @ 10:30 - 11:30
  • FREE - StoryPlay 11am @ Bay Ridge Library @ 11 - 11:45
  • FREE - First Five Years Kids Create @ McKinley Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Game On! @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Kids Create @ Dyker Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Game On! @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Parents Night Out Drop Off @ Bounce U @ 6 - 8:30
  • Elf the Musical @ Fort Hamilton Army Base Theater @ 8
0 Comments

Bay Ridge Area Kids Events Roundup: Nov 2 - 8

11/1/2019

9 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 November 2 - 8, 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 deadline.
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ONGOING:
  • BUY TICKETS NOW for our Ba(b)y Ridge MamaCon, Sunday, November 17 @ 11AM - 2PM, "From Bumps to Babies in Bay Ridge", the first event of its kind here in Bay Ridge! Expert panelists, great vendors, amazing giveaways, and new mama friends!
  • ~ Nov 6: Our $450 value jackpot Holiday Gift Guide Giveaway
  • ~ Nov 12: Request for Gifted & Talented Testing (children born in 2012-2015) by November 12 here (learn more here, note dates are from last year but info is the same)
  • ~ Nov 15: Grandma's Love Thanksgiving Food Drive
  • ~Nov 23, Saturdays 8am-3pm: ​Bay Ridge Greenmarket @ Walgreen's Parking Lot (9408 3rd Ave)
  • ~Nov 24, Sundays 9am-4pm: Bensonhurst Greenmarket @ Milestone Park (18th Ave, 81-82nd St)
  • (July 29 until further notice): Play Days and Playdates will be closed except for Thursday Mommy & Me while owner recovers from surgery.
  • Family Friendly Day Trips & Weekend Getaway Ideas​
SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 2:
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ McKinley Park Library @ 10 - 10:30
  • FREE - Coloring Fun! @ McKinley Park Library @ 10 - 11
  • FREE - Baby & Kids Clothing Swap @ Union Church of Bay Ridge @ 10 - 2
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime! @ Sunset Park Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Dyker Library @ 11 - 12
  • Open Lab: Tiny Scientists (ages 2-5) @ Urban STEAM Lab @ 11 - 1​
  • "Huggable Owl" Little Brushes @ Pinot's Palette @ 12 - 2
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 12:30 - 1
  • ​​FREE - Family DJ Dance Party - Music of Led Zeppelin for Kids @ IC Courtyard 5-6 @ doors 12:30,​​ show 1 - 2​
  • FREE - Dia de los Muertos celebration at your library: Music, and dance by Son Pecadores @ Sunset Park Library @ 2 - 3
  • FREE - Arabic Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 3:30
  • FREE - Saturday Storytime: Cantonese Storytime @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 3 - 4
  • FREE - Sing 'n Schmooze on Shabbat @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 4 - 5:15
  • Open Lab (5+) @ Urban STEAM Lab @ 4:30 - 7
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SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 3:
  • NYC Marathon!! Coming through Bay Ridge mostly on 4th Ave, see map for details
  • Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults ($10) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 9:30 - 11​​
  • Tinkergarten Fall Lantern Walk (Wait List Only) @ Owl's Head Park @ 4:30 - 5:30
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MONDAY, NOVEMBER 4:
  • Bay Ridge Library branch opens again!!!
  • Dr. Alex & Friends Singalong ($10) @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 10 - 11
  • FREE - Cantonese Storytime @ McKinley Park Library @ 10:30 - 11:30
  • Tic Toc Spanish @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 12​
  • FREE - Brooklyn Elementary Admissions Event (PreK3, UPK, K, G&T) @ PS 24 (427 38th St) @ 6:30 - 8:30
TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 5:
  • Election Day (But you can vote early, more info here) - Public Schools Closed, Alternate Side Parking Suspended
  • Day Camp @ Urban STEAM Lab @ 8 - 3
  • ​Lavender Blues ($10) @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 10:30​
  • FREE - Read and Play @ Sunset Park Library @ 1 - 1:45
  • BYOBaby Play Date ($5) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center) @ 3:30 - 5
  • FREE - Teen Manga Club @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - After School Stories @ Sunset Park Library @ 4:30 - 5:30
  • FREE - LES Junior High Open House (for 4th & 5th grade families) @ Lutheran Elementary School @ 6 - 8
  • FREE - Bay Ridge Catholic Info Night @ St. Anselm Academy @ 7
WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 6:
  • ​Lavender Blues ($20) @ Dimensions on Stage @ 10 - 10:40
  • FREE - Toddler Time @ Dyker Library @ 10:15 & 11:15
  • FREE - Babies and Books @ Sunset Park Library @ 10:30 - 11
  • FREE - Toddler Time @ Sunset Park Library @ 11:15 - 12
  • FREE - La Hora Mágica de los Pequeños @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
  • FREE - Teen Lounge @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 3:45
  • FREE - Book Adventures @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
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THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 7:
  • Mommy & Me with Miss Darlene @ Play Days & Parties @ 10 - 12​​
  • FREE - Read for the Record: Thank You, Omu! @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11 - 11:30
  • FREE - Teen Tech Time @ McKinley Park Library @ 3:30 - 5
  • FREE - Chess Workshop with Reinaldo Duran Trujillo @ Sunset Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults ($10) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 6 - 7
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FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 8:
  • FREE - Discovery Table @ McKinley Park Library @ 10 - 11
  • FREE - 普通話故事時間 Mandarin Chinese Storytime @ Sunset Park Library @ 10:30 - 11:30
  • FREE - First Five Years Kids Create @ McKinley Park Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Ready, Set, Kindergarten! @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11 - 12
  • FREE - Kids Create @ Dyker Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Game On! @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
  • FREE - Bay Ridge Rock Painting Party @ Cocoa Grinder (Bay Ridge Ave) @ 5 - 7
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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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