Mommy FTW

I did a post on the topic of trick or treating with your toddler last year, and it was pretty popular, so I am doing a repost since it’s that time of year again!  I hope everyone has a safe, happy, and fun Halloween!

Our pumpkins this year. Cameron's is the cat!

Choose a costume that is comfortable and don’t cover your child’s eyes. If your child is working on potty training, think about how easy it will be to remove for a bathroom break. If your child’s costume has a hat, try putting it on them a few times before the big day so they can warm up to it. Also, put it on your head to show them how cool it is.

Try and go visiting before your toddler’s bedtime. No one says you have to wait until dark to visit your neighbors in your Halloween costume. This will help avoid crankyness! I think we will head out after dinner, but before bath time.

If you are going to go around the neighborhood, bring a stroller or wagon. That way if they get tired of walking you have a back up plan that doesn’t involve you carrying them.

Take a flashlight with you if you are going out after dark. Also, Give your toddler something that is lit to hold. A flashlight, glow bracelet or necklace work great. You want others to see them coming

Make sure your toddler is wearing comfortable shoes – even if they don’t go with the costume!

If your child is potty trained, suggest they go to the bathroom before you go. If not, put on a fresh diaper.  (Even thought Cameron is mostly trained, I might try and get a diaper on him anyways to avoid any tricky situations).

Consider using a backpack as a goody bag. It’s easier to carry if things get heavy, and it keeps those little hands free to carry a flashlight.

Be sure to bring a bottle of water or your toddler’s sippy cup so that they can have a drink.

Take pictures before you go out trick or treating while everyone is well-rested, well fed, and happy.

I hope everyone has fun! Please feel free to post pictures of your little one in costume on our Facebook Fan Page!!  Cameron is going as Thomas the train – is anyone surprised?!

PS: if any readers live nn NW DC I hear that Brandywine St is closed to traffic between 46th and 47th streets from 5-8:30.  There will be a fire truck there around 6:30. That’s where we will be!

We’ve had a few rainy days here in D.C. but the weather this weekend is actually looking like it will be pretty good.  So if you are looking to get out with your little one and have some fun, why not check out Truck Touch 2011!  If your kids love trucks as much as Cameron does, it’s sure to be a hit.  Here’s the info which was sent to me this morning by Suburban Nursery School (Thanks for the heads up!):

Cameron gets his Truck Touch on!

Join us on Saturday, October 15th from 10am-3pm for our biggest, most colorful Truck Touch ever! Suburban Nursery School has assembled a ton of trucks for kids (and adults) to explore and touch including: a pink dump truck and a pink trash truck; a fire truck and a tree-trimmer bucket truck; a lime green shredder truck and a big white snow plow; big trucks and small cars; and many, many more.

Enjoy home-made baked goods, snacks and lunch from some of your favorite local vendors (pizza and ice cream!!), facepainting, and take a tour of the school too! This is a great opportunity for you and your kids to climb on and pretend to drive all of the trucks they love to read and talk about.

Truck Touch will take place in the school parking lot at 7210 Hidden Creek Road in Bethesda, MD (20817), near River Road, off of Wilson Lane. The cost is $5 per person; FREE for children under 2. All proceeds benefit Suburban Nursery School.

Last winter my mommy friends and I were desperately seeking a place to take the little ones where they could have a little fun and we could do some socializing.  The word around Fort Greene was that Der Schwarze Kölner was a really kid friendly spot that we should check out.  So, slightly dubious, our playgroup headed over and Babies and Beer began!  The get together was a huge success and word quickly spread around the parent set.

This year Der Schwarze Kölner has really stepped it up and started an amazing playgroup called Stutengarten Brooklyn which meets Monday -Thursday 2.30-5pm.  All they ask is for a minimum purchase of $5 – or a donation.  If you are wondering what you can purchase there to satisfy this amount (besides beer, duh!) the kids love the chicken sausage (it’s very mild) and Cameron was always a fan of the pretzel as well as the cheese.

I asked Randi, one of the owners, and mom to Sophie, to send me some pictures of Stutengarten Brooklyn since sadly I’m in DC and can’t attend.  I was blown away at how baby friendly they’ve made the space – with playmats, toys, and lots of open space.  Fort Greene and Clinton Hill have always desperately needed a playspace, and while this isn’t exactly that, it certainly is a good option on a cold or rainy day.  So if the winter is stretching on endlessly – check out Stutengarten Brooklyn Monday -Thursday 2.30-5pm.  Have a beer, or not, and meet some neighborhood parents.

To learn more about Stutengarten Brooklyn check out their facebook page.  You can also learn more about Der Schwarze Kölner at their facebook page, or on their website.

Tuesday Cameron and I went to the newly opened Tenley Friendship library.  I took lots of pictures, which you can see below.  We had hoped to get to story time which was advertised online at being at 10:30 – but when we got to the library we learned it is actually at 10:00 and 11:00.  Bummer!  Also… it was totally crowded.  I would say there were at least 30 kids + caretakers in the room.  So instead of fighting the mob scene we decided to take a little tour of the library, especially the kids section.  Cameron had other plans, and dropped a nice bomb in his diaper.  Off to the bathroom we went!

I had read that this library was built to be very child friendly, so I expected a changing table in the bathroom.  I didn’t find one.  There was a small area with a counter top away from the sinks that was about the right size, so I made use of that.  Perhaps that was supposed to be the changing area?  If not – oh well!  Works in a pinch.

All clean and fresh, we made our way to the children’s section which is located on the main level.  Along one wall there is a small space with some nice tables and chairs for the kids to sit and draw (they had crayons and paper out) or look at books.  Along the other wall that faces Wisconsin Ave there are some larger tables that groups can sit at. Other than that the space is entirely books and isles.  I felt like there were almost too many books and bookshelves which meant there was not a lot of room for the kids to play and hang out.  In the winter especially, half the point for us for going to the library is to spend some time out of the house, and out of the cold.  I think if there were a few kids there the space would be ok, but with the number of people there today, it felt very crowded and cramped.

As far as the media goes, a lot (all?) of the books seem new, or at least in very good condition, and there are so many great ones to choose from for all age groups.  In the board book section, Cameron found many about firetrucks, cars, and animals – his favorite subjects.  They seem very well organized – hopefully that will last!  There’s also lots of computer terminals throughout the first floor.  I didn’t let Cameron have at them, but I am guessing the two in the kid’s section have kid related programs on them.

As far as the story time program goes – we didn’t really participate.  There were so many kids and grownups in the room that Cameron and I were feeling a bit clostraphobic.  Cam did want to stick his head in every now and then to listen to the songs that were playing, but then he would run back out to the lobby area to climb the stairs or take the elevator.

Overall, Cam did seem to have fun, and he had a good nap after.  To me, that means we had a successful morning.  I hope that after the library has been around for a few months that it will be less crowded.  I think as Cameron gets older he will appreciate the amazing book collection more, and the lack of play space won’t be such an issue for us.  The space itself is beautiful – new, clean, and modern looking.  It’s certainly worth your time to check out!

The Tenley Friendship Library is located at  4450 Wisconsin Ave. N.W. D.C.  You can email them at tenleylibrary@dc.gov check out the D.C Library website, or  call at 202-727-1488 to find out more about their programs and services.  For those not in the Tenleytown area, it’s really easy to get to – sitting directly above the Tenleytown metro stop on the Red line.

Washington, DC 20016

Most of you know that I moved from Brooklyn to Washington D.C. with my Husband and Cameron last fall.  Well, we finally were able to find a house to buy, and this past weekend we actually moved in.  It’s been pretty hectic, and Cameron seems to be having  a hard time adjusting when it comes to his sleep routine.  I think he thinks it’s just too exciting to nap!  So, I have to apologize for the lack of postings – things have been so busy lately.  I hope to get back on track soon.

But, while I am here…. a small bit of local news – The Tenley-Friendship Library (4450 Wisconsin Ave. N.W D.C.) just opened today after being under construction for what seemed like forever!  The first toddler story time is tomorrow, Tuesday January 25th at 10:30 am.  Cameron and I are going to check out the scene and I promise a write up with pictures. Check out this article on TBD.com for more stats about the library and some sneak peek pics.  See you there tomorrow?

I’ve done many posts about the Wilson Aquatic Center in Tenleytown DC, but I still get tons of questions about it, so I decided to make one super post that will hopefully be very informative for visitors.  And since it’s winter out and the pool is FREE (to DC residents) it’s a great indoor activity for you and your baby / toddler / kids!

Here’s the important info: (If you have other suggestions / tips please leave a comment!)

1) They are currently doing construction on Wilson High School which has caused the regular entrance to the Aquatic Center to be closed.  The temporary entrance is on Nebraska Ave near Albemarle.  There is generally plenty of free parking on Nebraska ave.  There are signs that will point you towards the entrance.

2) You must have your ID – no exceptions!  Of course, your child doesn’t need one.  If you are not a DC resident, you have to pay a $4 fee to get in.  They don’t take cash, so bring your credit card.  You can also use a utility bill to prove your DC residency if you don’t have a DC licence yet (like me – eep!)

3) Your small child needs to be wearing a swim diaper AND a swim suit – they can’t just wear a swim diaper.  I am guessing if they just had a swim suit on there wouldn’t be any way for them to tell if there was a diaper on underneath.  Besides, who is to say your kid isn’t potty trained?!  If you are wondering where you can get swim diapers in winter, check on Diapers.com or Amazon.com.

4) There are men’s, women’s, and family locker rooms.  Both the women’s and family locker rooms have diaper changing stations in them (I’m not sure about the men’s…)  Children over the age of 3 of the opposite sex must change in the family locker room.  AKA, you can’t take your son into the women’s locker room.   I used to prefer the women’s locker room (the showers are generally warmer) but I got a lot of dirty looks for having Cam there (even though he is just 2)  so now we stick to the family locker room.  There they have large private changing rooms – there are 4 or 5 of them available.

5) There is stroller parking available at the base of the stairs that lead from the lobby to the pool – just outside of where the elevator lets you off.

6) Things to bring:

A combo lock for the lockers – they do not provide them.

You might want to bring flip flops / sandals for yourself and your child.  I’m not really a fan of walking barefoot in public places – but maybe that’s just me.

I also bring shampoo, conditioner, and some liquid soap.  The showers have soap dispensers in them, but they are often empty.  I just keep travel size bottles in my swim bag to have on hand.

I always bring 2 towels – one for me and one for Cam.  The pool is very warm, but it feels COLD when you get out!  I also got Cam another bath robe to wear post swim.

Toys – one father I’ve seen there a few times has a great set of bath squirter toys that are a big hit.  They also have a basketball hoop and a few balls, but those are often in high demand – so feel free to bring some of your own things.

The children’s pool itself is a “beach pool” meaning it starts at 0″ depth and gradually gets deeper, just like at the beach.  It tops out somewhere between 2 or 3 feet.  There are several water features – some water jets that shoot up, and some buckets that fill and dump which are often off.  They seem a little scary and loud for little kids, but older kids LOVE them.  You can always go talk to the people in the office and ask them to turn them off or on.  They are very friendly.

Then there’s a semi separate deeper area (5 feet?) that the less serious swimmers do laps and water aerobics in.  There is also a HUGE lap pool if you really want to get your swim on and go without your child.  And, there is a “therapy pool” (gigantic hot tub) that only adults are allowed in.

There is always a lifeguard on duty at the kid’s pool and the main lap pool.  They are very attentive and I always feel safe having Cam there.

Phew!  That was a lot of info – I hope you find it helpful.  I can’t stress enough how great this pool is – especially on a rainy, snowy, or cold day.  And, after you’ve gone swimming, hit up the Whole Foods across the street for lunch.  They have an upstairs seating area that has plenty of high chairs!

The Wilson Aquatic Center is open Mon-Fri 6:00am – 9:00pm; Sat,Sun 9:00am – 5:00pm.  It will be closed December 24 and 25 for Christmas, and December 31 and January 1 for New Years.  You can call them with any questions at: (202) 730-0583.  If you are interested in learning about classes at the Wilson Aquatic Center, check out the DC DPR website.

Most of my Fort Greene readers know that I am huge fans of the local Beer Garden Der Schwarze Kölener.  The owners and the staff have always been so child friendly, and especially in the long winter months it’s a great place to take your little ones, meet some fellow parents, and grab a beer – of course!

Ho, Ho, Ho, Bring me a Bitburger!

Well this Sunday, December 5th, they are giving us one more reason to love them: Santa is coming to the Beer Garden!  From 3-5 pm Nikolaus (aka Santa Claus) will stop by with his big bag of presents. Recommended age 3-6 years, but younger kids are encourage to come and soak up the festive atmosphere.  I suggest you swing by, take some pictures, and relax!

FYI, as far as grub for the kiddos go, Cameron always loved the pretzel plate with cheese and pickle, and the chicken sausage is always a toddler crowd favorite.

Der Schwarze Kölner is located at 710 Fulton Street, Fort Greene/Brooklyn.  Even if you can’t make it this Sunday to see Santa, stop by some other time and enjoy some Babies and Beer!

I’d like to preface this post by saying I am by no means an expert in this department – but since we’re taking Cameron out this year for his first trick or treating, I’ve been doing some research so I wanted to share what I’ve found.  Here are few tips and ideas for your trick or treating outing with your little one:

Our pumpkins this year. Cameron's is the cat!

Choose a costume that is comfortable and don’t cover your child’s eyes. If your child is working on potty training, think about how easy it will be to remove for a bathroom break. If your child’s costume has a hat, try putting it on them a few times before the big day so they can warm up to it. Also, put it on your head to show them how cool it is.

Try and go visiting before your toddler’s bedtime. No one says you have to wait until dark to visit your neighbors in your Halloween costume. This will help avoid crankyness! I think we will head out after dinner, but before bath time.

If you are going to go around the neighborhood, bring a stroller or wagon. That way if they get tired of walking you have a back up plan that doesn’t involve you carrying them.

Take a flashlight with you if you are going out after dark. Also, Give your toddler something that is lit to hold. A flashlight, glow bracelet or necklace work great. You want others to see them coming

Make sure your toddler is wearing comfortable shoes – even if they don’t go with the costume!

If your child is potty trained, suggest they go to the bathroom before you go. If not, put on a fresh diaper.

Consider using a backpack as a goody bag. It’s easier to carry if things get heavy, and it keeps those little hands free to carry a flashlight.

Be sure to bring a bottle of water or your toddler’s sippy cup so that they can have a drink.

Take pictures before you go out trick or treating while everyone is well-rested, well fed, and happy.

I hope everyone has fun! Please feel free to post pictures of your little one in costume on our Facebook Fan Page!!

DC Fans and Brooklyn Fans I’ve got you both covered for Saturday Halloween fun!

Fort Greene and Clinton HIll folks, The Conservancy presents the 11th Annual all FREE Halloween Festival in Fort Greene Park on Saturday, October 30th from Noon- 3:00pm

Free fun in Fort Greene Park this Saturday!

There will be hay rides, games, sack races, face painting, stilt-walkers, entertainers and free pumpkins to decorate – all FREE. Plus there will be a costume parade and spooky cemetery. The festival kicks off at 12 noon with a wild costume contest for dogs and their
owners, “The Great PUPkin,” sponsored by Fort Greene PUPS, the local dog-owners organization. Even if you don’t have a dog, this is really fun for kids to check out.

For the DC locals, there’s a Halloween Party at Forest Hills Playground (3200 Chesapeake St. NW DC) also on Saturday from 10:30 – 12:30pm.

Free fun for DC kids at Forest Hills Playground

Come celebrate Halloween at Forest Hills Playground park with all your friends. Events include: A magic show byThe Great Zucchini, a Bake Sale, a Costume Parade, and Arts & Crafts for the kids. It’s all free so go check it out!

Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s annual fall family event—Ghouls and Gourds—is right around the corner on Sunday, October 24!  This year, the event has a farm theme to it, complete with giant scarecrows and a barn dance.

Visitors can experiment with dyeing and spinning wool,  making field mouse masks, instruments made out of junk, and much more!  Also, (and new for this year) they’ll have large-scale collaborative workshops where kids can pitch in to create a giant pumpkin sculpture, oversized spider web, and an enormous mandala out of recycled materials .   Families can also visit the Children’s Book Barn where 20+ of Brooklyn’s best children’s book authors and illustrators will be on hand for readings and signings.
As far as music goes, Slavic Soul Party, Suzi Shelton, The Xylopholks (who dress up in furry costumes), and more will fill the afternoon with family-friendly tunes.  And then there’s the flea circus, larger-than-life puppets, pretend petting zoo, and more!

If you’re looking for some fall fun this weekend in Brooklyn, check out Ghouls and Gourds at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden.  The Garden is located at 1000 Washington Ave Brooklyn, NY 11225.  For more information on how to get to Ghouls and Gourds, check out the Brooklyn Botanic Garden website.