Consistently voted one of the best places in NYC to raise a family, I couldn't be happier that I made Bay Ridge my home 9 years ago. But it can be hard, moving to a new neighborhood or staying put but transitioning into parenthood. To save you some and energy, I've put together a list of the best resources in the Greater Bay Ridge Area (that includes Dyker Heights, Fort Hamilton, and a bit into Sunset Park, Industry City, and Bensonhurst) - basically, the places you could easily get to on foot or a quick 5-10 minute bus ride. Some of these resources are my personal go-tos, others are recommended again and again in local parenting groups, and some are sponsored and worth checking out!

ONLINE SUPPORT

• Bay Ridge Baby Mamas (Facebook group, for local moms with a child up to 2 years old)
• Bay Ridge Toddler Mamas (Facebook group, for local moms with a child walking through 5 years old)
• Bay Ridge Kid Mamas (Facebook group, for local moms with a child in Pre-K through Elementary School)
• Note, the above 3 Bay Ridge Mamas facebook groups also have amazing exclusive buy/sell/trade and babysitters groups!
• Bay Ridge Parents (Facebook group)
• Bay Ridge Families - a hyper local focused blog hosted right here on my site, we do weekly kids' events roundups and annual guides with all the best events for Halloween, Winter Holidays, Birthday Parties, Summer Camps, Baby Sitters, Classes & Activities for Babies & Toddlers, and more! Be sure to sign up to our list serve here to be kept in the loop!
• Queen of the Click - a great website with local news & resources
• Check out my personal blog reviews and youtube demos of a TON of single, double, and wagon strollers here!!

OBGYN & CHILDBIRTH:

• Birthing Center of New York (6702 3rd Ave)
• ​Guirguis OBGYN - With offices in Bay Ridge, Park Slope, and Staten Island, The Guirguis Obstetrics & Gynecology Group have provided comprehensive health care catered to women of all ages for over 30 years. Their compassionate physicians, nurse practitioners, and certified nurse midwives offer premier gynecologic services for women throughout all stages of life, as well as personalized obstetric care throughout pregnancy, labor and delivery, and the postpartum period.
• NYC Doula Collective - Founded in 2008, The NYC Doula Collective is a community of birth workers serving New York City and the surrounding areas. Through ongoing professional development, regular meetings for members, active mentorship and a commitment to giving back to the community, they strive to offer NYC families professional birth doula services within a wide range of experience and fee levels.

LACTATION HELP:

• Free Lactation Class once a month for GPM Pediatrics patients
• La Leche League of Bay Ridge - Dyker Heights
• Nicole Fusco-Evans - RN, CLC (Certified Lactation Counselor)
• Rebecca Powell - PhD, CLC (Certified Lactation Counselor)

CHILDREN'S HEALTH & WELLNESS:

• DeVito & Alvarado Pediatrics (8008 3rd Ave)
• GPM Pediatrics (7715 4th Ave) - By offering parents a choice of seven board certified physicians that speak a variety of languages (including Greek, Italian, and Spanish), with styles varying from integrated to conservative traditional practices, families at GPM Pediatrics have the opportunity to select the provider that best reflects their parenting philosophy and medical approach. They are recognized as a Level III Patient-Centered Medical Home (PCMH) through the National Committee on Quality Assurance (NCQA), offer Saturday hours, in-house bloodwork, and hold monthly free classes led by a lactation counselor and nutritionist. Offices in Bay Ridge & Staten Island.​​

• ​Miss Megan - Miss Megan is the owner and founder of Mindful Montessori™, Mantra Sleep Solutions™, and The Miss Megan Effect™. She is an innovator and an expert in her field. Her unique and creative methods of focusing on Conscious Parenting and Non-Cry-It-Out Sleep Solutions have served families within the greater New York City area and worldwide for years. In fact, Miss Megan has been a career Governess/Nanny/BabyNurse, a Transformational Pediatric Sleep Master, and a Child Behavioral Specialist for over fifteen years and has extensive experience working with children in a wide range of settings. Miss Megan is also a Montessori trained Directress, a Board Certified Holistic Health Coach, and a children’s book author-in-the-making.Miss Megan’s greatest source of knowledge and expertise comes from being a working mother. Miss Megan is a proud single mother (by choice) of two, and has a Montessori homeschool and a home-based Pediatric Transformational Sleep Center located in Jersey City, NJ.​

• Pediatric Physical Therapy Services: Katie Messineo (PT, DPT, PCS) - Board Certified Pediatric Specialist providing home-based evaluation and treatment of infants and toddlers with Torticollis (head turn preference and tight neck muscles) as well as developmental delay.  Available for consults to provide recommendations for tummy time and age appropriate play. Contact by email (katie.messineo@gmail.com) or phone: (914) 799-3846. 
• PM Pediatrics (1823 86th St) - urgent care for kids
• Tribeca Pediatrics (6927 3rd Ave)

CLASSES & ACTIVITIES for BABIES:

• Music Together (275 90th St / 7603 3rd Ave / 1072 80th St) - Music together provides weekly "Mommy and Me" family music and movement classes for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and the grownups who love them! Free trial lessons are offered before each semester. Great recorded music and song books are provided to families so they can continue the classroom experience all week long at home, and unlimited free bonus classes are offered, too!​

• Zumbini with Fallon - Taught by local mama, Fallon. Happy hour for you and your baby! Created by Zumba® and BabyFirst for kids ages 0-4, the Zumbini® program combines music, dance and educational tools for 45 minutes of can’t-stop, won’t-stop bonding, learning, and fun! Register for FREE upcoming trial classes at Industry City's buybuyBABY (January 16 - February 27) here!
• Extensive list of classes & activities for babies & toddlers updated regularly here!

BABY CLOTHES, GEAR, & PHOTOGRAPHY:

• Brooklyn Baby World (7302 15th Ave)
• buybuyBABY (850 3rd Ave)
• Century 21 (472 86th St)
• The Children's Place (417-419 86th St)
• GAP Outlet (423 86th St)​

• ​OGONEWYORK (8224 3rd Ave) - OGONEWYORK is a women's wear boutique inspired by European culture. It provides a unique selection of ready to wear apparel sourced from around the world at affordable prices, including its own made in New York house label, OGO. Mother of three , designer & founder Ogo Ekweozor-holley launched a selection of "Mommy & Me" styles ready for the holiday season. "We are excited to introduce a curated selection of matching outfits perfect to get you and the family into the holiday spirit" says Ogo.
• Raine & Riley's (9002 3rd Ave)​
• The Ridge Kids (8122 3rd Ave) - Owned and run by a local mom, The Ridge Kids carries high-quality, stylish, and affordable children's clothing for every kind of Bay Ridge family. They also have a carefully curated selection of toys, books, and arts & crafts.​

• Picture a Day by Maia
• T.J. Maxx (502 86th St)
• Young Love NYC (479 83rd St) - Owned and run by a local mom, Young Love NYC Photo & Video Studio is a boutique offering photography and videography services tailored to your family's needs. Weddings, at-home newborn sessions, baptisms, milestone birthdays, cake smashes and family celebrations of all kinds are their specialty and Julia looks forward to hearing from you to capture your precious memories!

OTHER RESOURCES:

• Brooklyn Hemp Healer - Kannaway’s hemp and cannibis-based products are all natural, devoid of pesticides, herbicides, and chemical fertilizers, and rigorously tested, ensuring that the products you are choosing are of the highest caliber and effectiveness. From CBD and skin care to essential oils and nutritional supplements, you'll find an assortment of high quality products available for purchase through local mother, Karen.​

• Councilman Justin Brannan - Representing the 43rd Council District, which includes Bay Ridge, Dyker Heights, Bath Beach and Bensonhurst, Councilman Justin Brannan has a great involvement in Bay Ridge Parents' Facebook Group, responds to any and all issues promptly, and organizes wonderful events for families and the community at large.​

• Rahmé​ Team at Compass - The Rahmé Team’s practice spans the gamut of NYC real estate: new developments, townhomes, condos, co-ops, multi-family buildings, and commercial leases. Above all, relationships are paramount to the Rahmé Team, who take a client-centric approach and work seamlessly between the many parties and personalities that may be involved to secure the best deal, regardless of the property or market conditions. Being multilingual in English, German, Lebanese, French, Mandarin and Cantonese further distinguishes them, and enables them to represent a diverse clientele.

• The Vianetic - A smart compartmentalized diaper back pack, The Vianetic is built to last through the diaper days and beyond - featuring an external USB port, laptop compartment, and luggage strap, it's also great as a work and travel bag!

• Jonathan Taylor, Northwestern Mutual - As a Financial Advisor at Northwestern Mutual, I help individuals achieve a more secure future by working to understand their situation and identifying their financial needs.  By building a relationship that will grow over time, and working with my team of financial experts, we focus on solutions that help make your goals a reality.  Conveniently located in Midtown Manhattan, we can engage in discussion on a broad range of topics either in person or remotely.

Disclaimer: This post was sponsored and provided by Jonathan Taylor of Northwestern Mutual NYC Midtown, as part of an advertising partnership with Bay Ridge Families' Ba(b)y Ridge MamaCon.

​We live in financially uncertain times.  Maybe you are young and have a growing family, are a soon-to-be-retiree, or are an aspiring business owner, and your financial future concerns you.  Bonds, stocks, ETFs, whole-life insurance, term-life insurance, mutual funds, IRAs - the list of confusing financial terms that need to be navigated is daunting.  With different advice coming from all over, how does one correctly navigate it all in such confusing and unstable times?

This is when you can use some well-thought-out planning and direction that will help assure and solidify your financial future.  “I understand the community’s specific financial needs,” says Jonathan Taylor of the Northwestern Mutual Wealth Management Company.  “My associates and I live that life and we can help our clients plan for those periods in their lives when they will need money, and use it both thoughtfully and wisely,” Jonathan says.

Jonathan Taylor is a Financial Advisor who says that he decided to join the team at Northwestern Mutual after studying their history and very successful track record in preparing their clientele for the challenges of the future. 

For his part, Jonathan Taylor is a bright and articulate young man.  Young Mr. Taylor is highly thought of in the community and is very much in demand to be consulted with by many young growing families, soon-to-be retirees, and business owners who are concerned about planning and securing their economic future.

“I often explain to people the power of small increments that are set aside consistently over time,” Jonathan Taylor says.  “It is the power of compound interest and consistency that drive a financial plan and can help secure substantial savings and wealth.”  He stresses the fact that even if one has a financial plan in place, circumstances change – a new child, new job, major expense, etc. – and the plan must adapt to the new circumstances.  Therefore, he strongly suggests reviewing it on an annual or semi-annual basis. 

One of the issues that Jonathan is focused on, of course, is the matter of his clients owning ample life insurance.  “The loss of a member of our community is always a tragedy,” he says.  “But life insurance can greatly alleviate the financial burden created by such a tragedy.  While one would hope that it would never be necessary, life insurance is something everyone should have.”

Jonathan feels that this simple matter needs more emphasis in communities and schools; unfortunately, each time a tragedy occurs a promise is made to pursue this avenue and then it is just as quickly forgotten.

In response to this need, Jonathan has developed different programs where individuals, families, businesses, and other institutions have created life and disability insurance programs for their members.  Inexpensive plans are set up for the various members of the groups and can assist them in starting their financial planning journey.

Through a network of specialists, another prime focus of Jonathan’s practice is holistic financial planning.  While understanding the anxiety that can accompany long term planning, Jonathan emphasizes the importance of maintaining a long-term strategy.  He also stresses the fact that “money under the mattress” isn’t necessarily a viable solution.  “Inflation and rising costs diminish the purchasing power of money,” he notes.  “A sound investment plan can combat this problem.”

Jonathan concludes: “I’m excited to educate and assist our community in this important need.  A financial plan can easily be implemented if given the proper thought and time.” 
​
Jonathan can be contacted through his website, by e-mail at Jon.E.Taylor@nm.com, or by his cell number at 347-723-7428.  Consultations are free and can be arranged at the client’s location and time of convenience.

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 December 14 - 20, 2019!

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

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

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

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

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

ONGOING:​​​

• ​~ Dec 18: Collection Box for NEW books & pajamas @ Bay Ridge Library
• ~ Dec 18: Collection of NEW books & pajamas through Bay Ridge Cares (many locations)
• ~ Jan 21: Kindergarten Applications Open for children born in 2015 - due January 21, more info and register here!
• (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

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 14:

• Brunch with Santa  @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 9 & 10 AM ($24.95 adults, $21.95 kids, under 2 free)
• Pancakes with Santa @ St. Anselm @ 9:30 - 12:30 PM ($20)
• FREE - Saturday Storytime @ McKinley Park Library @ 10 - 10:30
• FREE - Holiday Flea Market to Benefit Relay for Life @ PS264 @ 10 - 4
• FREE - Saturday Storytime! @ Sunset Park Library @ 10:30 - 11
• FREE - Kids Cinema Club: The Muppets Christmas Carol @ 268 36th St @ 11 - 1
• Open Lab: Tiny Scientists (ages 2-5) @ Urban STEAM Lab @ 11 - 1​
• FREE - Winter Bazaar @ PS 503 @ 11 AM - 3 PM
• FREE - Family Movie: Home Alone 1 & 2 @ McKinley Park Library @ 11 - 3
• FREE - Winter Wonderland (FREE Santa Photo) @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 4 PM
• FREE - Winter Wonderland Christmas Fair (Santa Photos @ 2  - 4 PM) @ St. Anselm @ 11 AM - 5 PM
• FREE - Kids Create: Writing @ Sunset Park Library @ 12 - 1
• "Cozy Penguin" Little Brushes @ Pinot's Palette @ 12 - 1:30 (Santa comes for pix at 1pm)
• FREE - Santa in Lobby of One 74th St @ 12 - 3 PM
• FREE - Ugly Christmas Sweater for Pets Contest @ PETCO @ 12 - 3
• FREE - Holiday Spectacular & Tree Lighting (Trolley on 5th Ave from 67th - 85th Streets) @ 12 - 4 PM
• FREE - Buddy the Elf Visit @ 268 36th St @ 12 - 5
• FREE - Saturday Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 12:30 - 1
• FREE - Chess Workshop for Children @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 12:30 - 2:30
• ​​FREE - Family DJ Dance Party - Music of White Stripes for Kids @ 274 36 St (Bldg 2 at The Landing) @ 1 - 2
• Photo of your Pet with Santa ($9.95) @ PETCO @ 1 - 4
• 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
• Holiday Acapella Performance @ 1:30 - 4:30
• 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
• Bay Ridge Ballet's The Nutcracker @ Holy Angels @ 4 - 5
• A Glorious Night of Christmas Music @ St. Patricks @ 7:30 - 10 ($25)

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 15:

• ​Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults ($10) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 9:30 - 11​​
• Winter Fun with Yoga Classes for Kids @ Young Love NYC @ 10 - 10:45
• FREE - Sunset Park Kids' Cinema Club: Elf @ 268 36th St @ 11 - 1
• Breakfast with Santa @ Fort Hamilton Army Base @ 11 AM - 3 PM ($40 adults, $20 children)
• FREE - Winter Wonderland Christmas Fair (Santa Photos @ 2  - 4 PM) @ St. Anselm @ 11 AM - 5 PM
• Family Yoga Class @ Bay Ridge Yoga @ 11:30
• Hanukkah Singalong @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 12 - 1
• 7th Annual Gingerbread Party @ The Art Room @ 12 - 2 PM ($55)
• FREE - Buddy the Elf Visit @ 268 36th St @ 12 - 5
• Photo of your Pet with Santa ($9.95) @ PETCO @ 1 - 4
• Santa & His Horse & Carriage @ 7902 5th Ave @ 1 PM​

MONDAY, DECEMBER 16:

• 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 - Book Adventures @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 4:30

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 17:

• FREE - StoryPlay @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 & 11
• Lavender Blues Remix @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 10:30 - 11:30
• Open Lab: Tiny Scientists (ages 2-5) @ Urban STEAM Lab @ 12 - 2
• FREE - DIY (YA) @ 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

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 18:

• 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
• Holiday Acapella Performance @ 12 - 3
• 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
• Joffrey Dance Academy Presents The Nutcracker @ Fort Hamilton High School @ 5 PM ($10)
  

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 19:

• Toddler Paint @ Pinot's Palette @ 12 - 1
• FREE - Kids Create @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 3:45
• 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
• Joffrey Dance Academy Presents The Nutcracker @ Fort Hamilton High School @ 7 PM ($10)

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 20:

• Last day of school before winter break, classes resume January 2
• 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 - Bay Ridge Playdate @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10:30 - 12
• FREE - First Five Years Kids Create @ McKinley Park Library @ 11 - 12
• FREE - Buddy the Elf Visit @ 268 36th St @ 12 - 2
• FREE - Babies & Books @ Dyker Library @ 1:15 - 2
• FREE - Teen Tech Time @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4
• FREE - Teen Tech Time @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
• FREE - Game On! @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
• FREE - Tot Shabbat @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 5:30 - 6:30
• Parents Night Out Drop Off @ Bounce U @ 6 - 8:30
• Joffrey Dance Academy Presents The Nutcracker @ Fort Hamilton High School @ 7 PM ($10)

**originally posted 12/6/2016 when we had 7 strollers for our 3 kids ages 3 and under (updated 3 years and 6 additional strollers later LOL!!! Some affiliate links included below)

Hi, my name is Heather and I'm addicted to strollers. We have 3 children ages 4-6 (including twins), are living in a tiny 950 square foot apartment in Brooklyn, and yet we have managed to own a total of THIRTEEN strollers (maxed out at 5 at one time). Yes, you read that correctly. Here are the strollers we've had, some for as little as a week, others for 2+ years!! Be sure to click the ** links for my full blog reviews, my demo videos are embedded at the end of this post:

1 triple:

• ** Joovy Big Caboose (blog review)

​4 Doubles:

• ** StrollAir MyDuo (video demo/review)
• Joovy Scooter X2 (Amazon affiliate link)
• Maclaren Twin Techno (Amazon affiliate link)
• ** Joovy Twingroove UltraLight (blog review & video demo)

​3 Single to Double Convertibles:

• Britax B-Ready (Amazon affiliate link)
• ** StrollAir Solo to Tango (blog review & video demo)
• ** Evenflo Pivot Xpand (blog review & video demo)

4 singles:

• Britax B-Agile (Amazon affiliate link)
• ** GB Pockit (blog review & video demo)
• UppaBaby G-Luxe (Amazon affiliate link)
• ** Mockingbird (blog review & video demo)

1 wagon:

• ** Wonderfold W1 Stroller Wagon (blog review & video demo)

​I just might have a problem... Here are some signs you might have a problem, too!

1. You have more than one stroller.
​Heck, you probably have more than a few strollers. Possibly a good half dozen or so! And the funny thing? You can justify your desperate need for each and every one of them!!! 

2. You're always lusting after the latest and greatest.
The one, or 4, you already have are still in perfectly good condition. But you're bored. You want a new baby, a new stroller baby, that is! Your heart actually skips a beat when your favorite stroller brand comes out with a new model or special edition.

3. You pimp out your (baby's) ride.
Custom seat liners, matching canopies, luxory diaper bag, stroller muffs, air-filled tires, you name it. Your little one rides in style!!

4. You have strollers in every nook and cranny.
Every car has one in the trunk, and your garage and closets are at capacity with strollers. Maybe you even begged your significant other to build some shelving space for them. Heck, you may have developed a product for smartly storing strollers indoors like the 2 moms behind MetroTot stroller hanger & CityStork stroller wheel covers!

5. You know how to score a deal.
Black Friday, Cyber Monday, local and online stroller resale groups (StrollerQueen StrollerSwap!!!), trade in events, blog giveaways, you name it. You know how to sell your old strollers to help finance a new one, and you know the best ways to save big!

6. You get stroller envy.
Walking through the park or the grocery store, you're constantly on the lookout. Who is pushing what stroller, what accessories are they sporting (here are my faves!!), is there one you haven't seen before? No shame - go and ask the mom about it!!! Maybe ask to take it for a quick test drive!

7. You're the go-to girl for your friends and family.
When someone is having a baby or needing a new stroller, you are the one they look to for advice. Because you know, well, pretty much EVERYTHING about strollers!!! You may even publish guides such as "7 Best Double Strollers for Families", "The Best New Strollers for Every Budget", or "Stroller Shopping Tips"!

Did I miss any signs of stroller addiction? Are you an addict??? Share your story in a comment below! Tell us the stroller you love most and why. Maybe it'll be the next stroller added to my collection!

​And just for fun, I'll embed my stroller review & demo videos below!!

Disclaimer: This post is in partnership with Nakturnal.

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 December 7 - 13, 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.

ONGOING:​​​

• Dec 8 - 12: Free Trial Group Piano Lesson (grades K & 1) @ Piano Storytellers
• ​~Dec 14: Toys for Tots collection at buy buy BABY 
• ~Dec 18: Collection Box for NEW books & pajamas @ Bay Ridge Library
• ~Dec 18: Collection of NEW books & pajamas through Bay Ridge Cares (many locations)
• (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

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 7:

• ​Nutcracker Bake Sale @ Bay Ridge Ballet @ 9 AM - 3 PM
• Christmas Boutique (with Santa Workshop) @ St. Mary's @ 9 AM - 4:30 PM 
• Brunch with Santa  @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 9 & 10 AM ($24.95 adults, $21.95 kids, under 2 free)
• FREE - Saturday Storytime @ McKinley Park Library @ 10 - 10:30
• One Girl Cookies Kids Gingerbread House Decorating @ 220 36th St @ 10 - 1 ($90)
• FREE - Saturday Storytime! @ Sunset Park Library @ 10:30 - 11
• Open Lab: Tiny Scientists (ages 2-5) @ Urban STEAM Lab @ 11 - 1​
• FREE - Family Movie: The Santa Clause 1 & 2 @ McKinley Park Library @ 11 - 3
• FREE - Winter Wonderland (FREE Santa Photo) @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 4 PM
• Elf on the Shelf Pictures & Face Painting & Lunch @ Lombardo's @ 12-1:15 & 1:30-3 PM
• FREE - Saturday Storytime @ Dyker Library @ 12:30 - 1
• ​​FREE - Family DJ Dance Party - Music of Grateful Dead for Kids @ 274 36 St (Building 2 at The Landing) @ 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
• Coat & Toy Drive (with Live Music & Kids Activities) @ Salty Dog @ 2 - 6 PM (visit from Santa @ 3:30) ($10 suggested entry)
• 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
• FREE - Sing 'n Schmooze on Shabbat! @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 4 - 5:30
• Open Lab (5+) @ Urban STEAM Lab @ 4:30 - 7

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 8:

• Alternate Side Parking Suspended (Immaculate Conception)
• Brunch with Santa  @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 9 & 10 AM ($24.95 adults, $21.95 kids, under 2 free)
• ​Drop-In Karate Class for Kids & Adults ($10) @ Bay Ridge Jewish Center @ 9:30 - 11​​
• Breakfast with Santa @ St. Pats @ 10:30 AM ($15 per person)
• FREE - Winter Wonderland (FREE Santa Photo) @ Beyond at Liberty View @ 11 - 4 PM
• Family Yoga Class @ Bay Ridge Yoga @ 11:30
• Breakfast with Santa @ St. Ephrem Catholic Academy (RSVP by 11/27) @ 11:30 - 2 PM ($25 adults / $20 kids)
• Christmas Boutique (with Santa Workshop) @ St. Mary's @ 12:30 - 3:30 PM 
• Christmas Concert @ Union Church of Bay Ridge @ 2 PM
• Children's Chorus of Bay Ridge Winter Concert @ Good Shephard Church @ 3 PM ($10 per family)

MONDAY, DECEMBER 9:

• 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
• FREE - Teen Tech Time @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4
• FREE - Kids Create @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 4:30

TUESDAY, DECEMBER 10:

• FREE - StoryPlay @ Bay Ridge Library @ 10 & 11
• FREE - Babies and Books @ Sunset Park Library @ 10:30 - 11
• Open Lab: Tiny Scientists (ages 2-5) @ Urban STEAM Lab @ 12 - 2
• FREE - La Hora Mágica de los Pequeños @ Sunset Park Library @ 1:30 - 2:30
• 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
• Kids' Holiday Party (kids eat free, crafts & goodie bag, visit from Santa) @ UNO's Pizzeria @ 5 - 7 PM
• A Very Merry Singalong @ Vesuvio @ 6 - 8 PM 

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 11:

• ​​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 - Toddler Time @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 11:30 - 12
• FREE - Teen Lounge @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 3:45
• FREE - Build with LEGO @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3 - 4
• FREE - Kids Create @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5
• FREE - Build the Block Community Policing Meeting @ Fort Hamilton Library @ 6:30 - 7:45
• Winter Art Show & Concert @ Fort Hamilton High School @ 7 PM ($10)

THURSDAY, DECEMBER 12:

• FREE - Babies & Books @ Dyker Library @ 1:15 - 2
• FREE - Teen Tech Time @ Dyker Library @ 2:30 - 4
• FREE - Book Adventures: Story & Craft @ Bay Ridge Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
• FREE - Library Lab: Let it Snow! @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 4:30
• 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
• Winter Art Show & Concert @ Fort Hamilton High School @ 7 PM ($10)

FRIDAY, DECEMBER 13:

• 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 - StoryPlay @ 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
• Buddy the Elf Visit @ 268 36th St @ 12 - 2
• FREE - The Dyker Singers Christmas Concert @ Dyker Library @ 3 - 4
• FREE - Teen Tech Time @ Sunset Park Library @ 3:30 - 5
• FREE - Game On! @ McKinley Park Library @ 4 - 5

Disclaimer: This post was sponsored and provided by Vicky Simegiatos Dance Company.

We always want to broaden our children’s horizons and expose them to all of the great culture that New York City has to offer.  Here are ten reasons why your family will love the Vicky Simegiatos Dance Company’s presentation of The Nutcracker (ticket information at bottom of post).

1.    The ballet opens with a lavish Christmas party full of boys and girls (played by your Bay Ridge neighbors), complete with toys and gifts, mischief and sibling rivalry.  And a mysterious magical guest.

2.    Your children will recognize many of the melodies.  Music from the beautiful Tchaikovsky score has permeated pop culture.

3.    You can introduce your children to the ballet without paying Lincoln Center prices or stressing that they won’t be able to sit still for a full length performance.  The Nutcracker ballet is fun, fast paced and exciting. 

4.    There’s an epic battle scene, in which mice, soldiers, the Mouse King and the Nutcracker fight it out to save the ballet’s heroine, Clara.

5.    The Dance of the Snowflakes and the Waltz of the Flowers are among the most beautiful dances in all of ballet.  The Dance of the Snowflakes is breathtaking, performed as snow swirls down on the dancers who make up the corps de ballet - all Bay Ridge students.  Waltz of the Flowers is enchanting, full of dazzling pink costumes which capture the beauty of spring time.  Your children will be mesmerized.

6.    The role of the Sugar Plum Fairy will be danced by international ballet star Maria Kowroski, principal dancer from New York City Ballet.  Your children will have the rare opportunity of seeing her perform in this intimate setting.

7.    An afternoon or evening spent at the theater is the perfect way to take a break from all of the holiday preparations and festivities.  You can just sit back and let the magic of the ballet sweep over you.  The Historic St. George Theater is an ornate jewel, just intimate enough to give the audience a special experience with the performance.  It’s located just a short drive from Bay Ridge.

8.    Here’s what Alastair Macaulay, legendary dance critic of The New York Times, has said about our Nutcracker:

•     “Impressive young ballerina technicians”
•     “These children were already good professionals.”
•     “The levels of technique and theatrical production are remarkably high.”
•     “This will remain one of my favorite “Nutcracker” memories.”​

9.    Ballet is not just for girls. Male pro athletes train in ballet to become more agile and to get more height and hang time to their jumps.  Our boys are great dancers too!  Your boys are going to want to watch them work.

10.    It’s not unusual to see children leap to their feet during intermission, swept up by the magic, acting out the dances that they just saw.  Who knows?  Before the night is through, you just may find that your young son or daughter sees themselves as a budding ballet dancer too.  You’ll leave the St. George Theatre singing the melodies, and they’ll stay with you throughout the Christmas season.

Did you see The Nutcracker when you were a kid?  What were your favorite memories?

The Vicky Simegiatos Dance Company presents The Nutcracker at the Historic St. George Theater on December 22, 2019 at 1:00 p.m. and 6:00 p.m. Tickets are going fast!

• Location: The Historic St. George Theatre - 35 Hyatt Street - Staten Island - 2 blocks from the Ferry
• Tickets from $19 (VIP Tickets $50 and $35) 

​​Tickets available at:

• The Vicky Simegiatos Performing Arts Center (7110 Third Avenue - 2nd Floor Office - Mondays through Saturdays - 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m.; TEL: 718.690.0944)
• Historic St. George Theatre Box Office - 718.442.2900
• Ticketmaster​ (via VSPAC website)

For further information, visit our website (includes a Groupon Deal), call 917.860.4025 or 718.612.9475, email vsdc@ipvstudio.com, or download our PDF flyer:

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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)

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!!

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.

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.

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!!

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!!

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.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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).

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!

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!

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