Whether you are looking for maternity, baby or just some new lovelies to dress up your wardrobe, a pop-up shop will open this weekend in Brooklyn with 50-75% off all items. If you like soft tees, pure t will be there with maternity and womens’ clothing (I own 4 of their tees and love them…). Mint Julep, a boutique on the Lower East Side that carries everything from Three Dot to Anna Sui, will bring their collection. The event is being hosted by Bundle, a soho maternity, babys’ and womens’ clothing shop.

Details:
February 25 and 26th: 10 am- 6 pm
Pop-up shop will be at:
Artscetera
212 Smith Street (btw. Baltic and Butler)
Cobble Hill

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Photo courtesy of The Fire Wire

Over the last 5 years, I have become a parent who nags.  I hate this- and though I really try and curtail it, I find that as a parent living in an urban environment, it’s pretty difficult.

Here is how I sound:

“don’t touch that pole- that’s where dogs go pee”
“watch out!”
“stand back!”
“always hold my hand when you cross the street- or else I have to hold your shirt”
“don’t go over the yellow line or a subway might hit you”
“don’t chase each other on the sidewalk”
“no scooting on the subway platform”

You get the idea. And, please tell me you really get it- and that you’re a bit of a nag too. I will feel so much better.

Last spring I was given a couple of these gadgets, called “Hold-On Handles.” to try out. I had a stroller accessory on my stroller before, the Tag-Along,  and I like it.  But, the Hold-Ons are a bit different. They are a stroller accessory and a walking rope. Don’t worry- it’s not one of those child harnesses you see. Instead, it’s a caribeaner with a brightly colored child-friendly handle that you strap on to your stroller, grocery cart, belt clip or wrist and your child stays within reach of you.

For the past 10 months, I have had one on either side of my stroller and both kids like to hold on to them to keep pace with me as I run around town.  They like holding the animal designs but I think they mainly love the straps because it means they “own” a space on the stroller.  I forget to use the handles when we are at populated events, but I think that would be a good use for them.  I’m sure it would make me less neurotic trying to keep track of my kids. If I had thought of it, I would have brought the handles to the Yo Gabba Gabba concert/rave and avoided nearly losing one of my friends’ children there (whom I hope is not reading this).

Though I’m sure that I will never stop sounding like a nag to my children, I do feel a little better when I say “hold on” to my kids and they both nonchalantly reach for their respective handle on the stroller. They like the handles, and that’s been true since I introduced the gadgets to them last year. Now, how do I get them to stop touching every dirty subway surface that they can possibly get their hands on?

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Has your dead hard drive ceased its usefulness as a door stop? Now you no longer have to wait for E-Waste days, Brooklyn has its own E-Waste Warehouse where you can drop off your old computers, monitors, printers, scanners, routers, hard drives, circuit boards and more.

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Executive Producer Ricki Lake and Filmmaker Abby Epstein examined “the business” of having a baby with their insightful documentary, The Business of Being Born and their new, 4 part DVD series continues their investigation into maternity care with the series, More Business of Being Born. The series looks at birthing options, visits with famous midwife Ina May Gaskill and records the birth stories of celebrities Alanis Morissette, Gisele Bundchen, Christy Turlington-Burns, Cindy Crawford, Molly Ringwald, Kimberly Williams-Paisley and Melissa Joan Hart.

There is nothing more wonderful than seeing an empowering movie like this with other like-minded people. Though I am personally least interested in the celebrity interviews, that is the DVD that they will be screening. However, the site says the celebrity-studded “Special Deliveries” DVD is ” true inspiration for any mother-to-be, this group of women trusted their bodies and intuitions, taking responsibility for their birth decisions even when things didn’t go according to plan.”  The NYC Premier Screening of More Business of Being Born: Special Deliveries will include a panel of experts as well.
Details:
Monday, March 5, 2012, 6-8pm, adults only, $10
Museum of Motherhood, 401 East 84th Street (between 1st & York)
The NYC Premier Screening of More Business of Being Born: Special Deliveries: Celebrity Mothers Talk Straight on Birth and panel discussion hosted by Urbanity|baby Maternity Concierge.

All ticketholders are automatically entered to instantly win one of many giveaways. Expert Panelists include: CiC Board Member Terry Richmond (Co-founder of Birth Day Presence), Nicole Feliciano, Brooke Alpert, Debra Flashenberg , and Leah Keller. There is a Special Savings for UrbanityBaby Facebook fans! “Like” them on Facebook here and get a free ticket when you purchase 2.

For more information or ticketing information please contact info@urbanitybaby.com or call 212.787.4736. Tickets may also be purchased online at: http://urbanitybabymbobb.eventbrite.com/.

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Who’s ready to kick off the long weekend and the week off from school? This weekend there are some great things happening around town. “Brazil! Brazil!” is still going strong at the New Victory Theater and is obviously a hit as so many performances have been sold out. There’s also the Super Sabado Canaval, the Opening Day Gala for “Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical,” and the Half Moon Sword Ale taking place. And let’s not forget Kids Week at The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum that kicks off this weekend and leads into the week off from school. Oh man, I hope you’re as excited as we are! Don’t forget to check out our calendar and music listings for more events. We also have a lovely post about things to do during mid-winter recess!Have a great long weekend!

ONGOING

Friday, February 17th — Sunday, February 19th: various times
Supertall!
The Skyscraper Museum’s exhibition SUPERTALL! presents a survey of superlative skyscrapers worldwide, featuring projects that have been completed since 2001, are under construction, or are expected to top out by 2016. This recent generation of giants, generally 100 stories or higher, represents a new paradigm of slender mixed-use towers that explore innovative approaches in structural engineering, curtain wall and construction technologies, energy efficiency and sustainability, and ideas of vertical communities.
Details: The Skyscraper Museum 39 Battery Place, New York, NY 10280  Hours: Noon – 6 PM, Wednesday – Sunday  Admission: $5; $2.50 for Students and Seniors  Office tel: 212 945-6324  Fax: 212 732-3039  Hours and directions: 212 968-1961

Sunday, February 19th — Monday, March 26th: various times
“Knuffle Bunny: A Cautionary Musical” at Manhattan’s Children Theatre
Who doesn’t LOVE Mo Willems’ Trixie and her beloved Knuffle Bunny?! I know my son and I can’t get enough of that series! the musical adaptation features Trixie, Daddy and Knuffle Bunny. The trio takes a trip to the neighborhood Laundromat, but the adventure takes a dramatic turn when Trixie realizes “somebunny” got left behind…
NOTE: Please see below for specific details on the special Gala Opening that will take place on Saturday, February 18th!
Details: 380 Broadway, 4th Floor, NYC. All ages welcomed. Tickets: $40. Contact 212.226.4085 or visit the website for more information.

Friday, February 17th — February 26th: various times
“Brazil! Brazil!” at The New Victory Theater
If you’ve never been to Brazil, the new show “Brazil! Brazil!” at The New Victory Theater, is supposed to be the next best thing. With a blend of music, capoeira, acrobatics, live samba and soccer-inspired street dance, the show combines the musical elements of Rio Carnaval with the culture of Brazil. Brazil’s National Freestyle Football Champion, Arturo, is a featured performer and he will be showing off his sweet soccer moves with a team of singers, dancers and musicians. Between the soccer footwork, gymnast’s flips and dancers’ sizzling steps, the energy of the show will even get your feet moving!
Details: Brazil! Brazil!  The New Victory Theater  209 West 42nd Street  February 10 through February 26, 2012
Ticket Information: Tickets for Brazil! Brazil! cost $25, $18, $12 and $9 for Members and $38, $28, $18 and $14 for Non-members based on seat locations.  Theater-goers who buy tickets for three or more New Vic shows qualify for free Membership benefits, including up to 35-percent savings.  ONLINE at NewVictory.org BY PHONE at 646-223-3010; Sunday – Wednesday, 11 am-5 pm; Thursday – Saturday, 11 am-7 pm  IN PERSON at The New Victory Theater Box Office (209 West 42nd Street); Sunday & Monday 11 am-5 pm; Tuesday-Saturday 12 pm-7 pm*indicates Talk-back following the performance.  # indicates signed performances.

Saturday, February 18th — Sunday, February 26th at 2pm
Princess and the Pea at the Galli Theater
I hope you have your metro cards ready because you’ll want to head into the city for this. Trust me! This cheerful remake of the Grimm tale tells the story of a prince who treks across the land in search of his princess. But since so many of his suitors are dishonest impostors, he develops a system called the Royal Princess Pea Test to find a true princess.Throughout the show young audience members will be invited to engage with the performers, and an acting workshop follows Saturday performances.
Details: Ages 3 and up. 347 West 36th Street between 8th and 9th Avenues. Tickets: $20/adults, $15/children, seniors. Telephone: 212.731.0668. Visit the website for more information.

Friday, February 17th — June 30th: various times
Magic! The Amazing Max and The Box of Interesting Things
Magician Max Darwin makes objects appear out of thin air, as the laws of physics are defied, and miracles are performed inches from spectators’ faces. This isn’t a show that you ask, “How did he do that?” It’s not that Max doesn’t do great tricks, he does. It’s that the show is so focused on the hijinks of Hamlet the mind-reading pig and the silliness of coins appearing out of every bodily orifice, that the audience doesn’t have time to focus on the head-scratching things Max performs. The magic is just the sideshow to a very entertaining and engaging performance. Our full review is here.
Details: The Amazing Max and The Box of Interesting Things, in an open-ended Off-Broadway run.  Manhattan Movement & Arts Center  248 W. 60th Street, NYC (between Amsterdam and West End Avenues)
Performances: Saturdays and Sundays at 4:30pm.
Tickets: The Amazing Max is performed at the MMAC Theater located in the  Magic Carpet Rides (VIP seating) $49.50, regular general admission tickets $29.50. Tickets are available at  www.telecharge.com or by phone at 212-239-6200 or 800-432-7250.

Friday, February 17th – Sunday, February 26th: various times
The Berenstain Bears LIVE!
We are so excited about the “beary” good show that will be held at the Marjorie S. Dean Little Theatre! In The Berenstain Bears LIVE! in Family Matters, our favorite Bear Country citizens come to life on the Off-Broadway stage. In addition to teaching life lessons during the show, there will be a mini dance party and face painting afterwards. It’s going to be “bear”mazing! We have all seen it a couple of times and it’s super cute for the kids.
Details: Marjorie S. Dean Little Theatre. 10 West 64th Street and Central Park West. Tickets start at $34.95. 866.811.4111.

Friday, February 17th – Saturday March 31st from 10am – 5pm
Secrets of Circles Exhibit at Brooklyn Children’s Museum
There’s no doubt about it, circles are everywhere! The “Secrets of Circles” exhibit at the Brooklyn Children’s Museum features 18 different interactive activities that explore the nature of this simple, but amazing shape. From building mechanical contraptions to using a compass to draw awesome glow-in-the-dark circles, this fun exhibit provides a great way for math and science to come to life. This is going to be a crowd-pleaser, for sure, and will definitely give new meaning to “the wheels on the bus go round and round.”
Details: Brooklyn Children’s Museum   45 Brooklyn Avenue  Brooklyn, NY 11213  718-735-4400 www.brooklynkids.org.

Saturday, February 17th — Sunday, July 8th: various times
“Ship-Shape: Nautical Scale Models” at the Intrepid Sea, Air, and Space Museum
Get excited! This new exhibition examines the detailed process of building model ships. It consists of dozens of artifacts, including model ships, vintage toy ships, a variety of antique model kit boxes, a mock-up of a modeler’s workbench that shows the building of a model ship being made in progress, and illustrations that shows how models are constructed. Among the highlights of the exhibit are models of the Battleship New Jersey, which served during WWII, the Korean War and Vietnam, and USS Constitution, the oldest commissioned vessel afloat in the world. The model USS New Jersey measures 112” W x 25” H x 15” D and the model USS Constitution measures 57” W x 43”H x 22” D. If you’ve got a child who is fascinated with ships, it doesn’t get more thorough than this, folks.
Details: FREE with Museum admission. Pier 86 (46th Street and 12th Avenue) in NYC. Admissions: $24/adults, $12 children 3-6 years old/FREE children under 3. Visit the Museum’s website for more information.

FRIDAY FEBRUARY 17TH

Friday, February 17th from 2:00pm — 3:00pm
Baby Boogie at the Prospect Park YMCA
Are you a new parent?! Then this class may just be perfect for you. Listen closely and you’ll hear the class calling your name. Not only will you have time to meet other parents here, but the class also includes games for babies, singing, and dancing. Jackpot!
Details: 357 Ninth Street. Ideal for parents with babies up to 13 months. $12/visit. Telephone: 718.768.7100.Visit the website for more information.

Friday, February 17th from 4:30pm — 5:30pm
Animal Haven’s Caring Kids Program
Where are our animal lovers? Or parents of animal-loving children? You’ll want to check out this FREE event that introduces children and young teens to basic animal care and teaches them about existing issues in animal welfare. Through exciting lesson plans and interactive activities with cats and dogs at the shelter, participants learn the importance of treating animals humanely. They will not only make an impact on the lives of the animals they encounter, but it can certainly be a significant experience for them as well.
Details: 251 Centre Street. Ages 5-12. FREE for all, but RSVP is required. Contact KendraM@ah-nyc.org or visit the website for more information.

Friday, February 17th at 6:15pm
Family Movie Night at The Moxie Spot
Still stumped on how to enjoy Family Friday Nights after a long week? Head on over to The Moxie Spot, a family-friendly restaurant and play space for a fun Friday night film screening. Kids will eat for free when you purchase an entrée from the dinner special after 5:30pm. Now that what we call “family friendly.”
Details: The short feature begins at 6:15pm. The longer feature begins at 6:45pm. 81-83 Atlantic Avenue (at Hicks Street). 718.923.9710

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 18TH

Saturday, February 18th from 10:00am — 5:00pm
Kids Week 2012: Ringling Brothers Circus Performance at The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
This event is definitely going to be a hit! I wish I didn’t have a schedule conflict, otherwise my son and I won’t certainly be the first ones there! The Ringling Brothers (yay!!!) will kick off the annual “Kids Week” at The Intrepid and at 1pm and 3pm there will be performers to dazzle audience members with their daring and unique routines that also teach children about scientific principles including gravity, balance and momentum. Kids can also enjoy the Circus Zone – where they can learn to juggle and spin plates – throughout the day.
Details: 46th Street at 12th Avenue, NYC. FREE for all with Museum admission. All ages welcomed. Contact 212.245.0072 or visit the website for more information.

Saturday, February 18th from 10:30am — 11:30am
Story Time with Carol and Friends
Carroll Garden folks, weekly story time has never been so good! The Friends of Carroll Garden Library present, “Story Time with Carol and Friends” so head on over to join in on the educational fun.
Details: All ages welcomed. FREE for all. 396 Clinton Street. For more information, contact:friendscglibrary@gmail.com or visit their website.

Saturday, February 18h at 11am
Kids Story Time at Greenlight Bookstore
Grab the kiddies and head to Saturday Story Time, which typically features authors and illustrators of picture books and/or neighborhood performers reading stories. At times, there may even be crafts! A totally entertaining Saturday morning? We think so!
Details: Geared towards kids ages 3 – 8 years. Open to the public, but on a first come, first served basis. 686 Fulton Street (at South Portland). Phone: 718. 246. 0200. Visit the website for more information.

Saturday, February 18h at 11:30 am
Play Lab Workshop: Marvelous Mardi Gras!
It is time for Mardi Gras! Explore this festive holiday as you learn its cultural significance and create a colorful mask to take home. For 2 1/2 to 5 yr olds
Details: 145 Brooklyn Avenue. Telephone: 718. 735. 4400. Visit the website for more information.

Saturday, February 18h at 1 pm, 2 pm
A Celebration of Black History Month with Calvin Booker and Friends
Take a musical journey though Black History from traditional African Rhythms to Blues, Jazz and Hip Hop. Calvin Booker teaches the steps that will have everyone dancing though history!For all ages.
Details: 145 Brooklyn Avenue. Telephone: 718. 735. 4400. Visit the website for more information.

Saturday, February 18th from 11:00am — 12:30pm
Just Kidding Presents the Okee Dokee Brothers at Symphony Space
This Minnesota duo (Justin Lansing and Joe Mailander) is known for their high energy original songs. Together they remind children (and adults too!) of their intrinsic ability to discover, imagine, and create through music. With witty lyrics, off-the-wall humor, strong musicianship, and a unique folk/bluegrass style, prepare for a hoe-down without leaving the city. If you see this performance, hilarity will ensue.
Details: 2537 Broadway, NYC. Recommended for ages 3-9. Tickets: $20/adults, $13/kids. Contact boxoffice@symphonyspace.org or visit the website for more information.

Saturday, February 18th starting at 11:00am
Super Sabado: Carnaval! at El Museo del Barrio
Brooklynites, grab your family and get ready to celebrate this jubilant Brazilian tradition with music, costumes, dance demonstrations, and fun art making for all ages. The list of events are endless so be sure to visit the website to plan your day. Or you can just go with the flow once you get there!
Details: 1230 Fifth Avenue (at 104th Street), NYC. FREE for all. Recommended for all ages. Contact 212.831.7272 or visit the website for more information.

Saturday, February 18th at 12:30pm and 2:30pm
Puss in Boots at Puppetworks, Inc
If your child is a fan of the movie, then they will love this too! Now is the chance for them to find out what happens to this little kitten when he is given a pair of boots that turns out to be… wait for it… magical! This adorable tale will leave your child feeling enchanted, to asy the least.
Details: 338 6th Aevnue at 4th Street. Tickets: $7/child, $8/adult. Registration is suggested. Call 718.965.3391 or email puppetworks@verizon.net to reserve your tickets!

Saturday, February 18th at 1:00pm
Urban Stages Presents Musical Tales with Atiba at The Central Library
Still looking for a way to celebrate Black Heritage Month?! Head to the Central Library! Storyteller and musician Atiba Wilson will share a collection of his favorite African folktales with audience members. It’ll be a great cultural and learning experience.
Details: 10 Grand Army Plaza. FREE for all. All ages welcomed. Contact 718.230.2100 or visit the website for more information.

Saturday, February 18th at 1:00pm
Mardi Gras Party at Bryant Park
Mardi Gras has never been so much fun! Grab your entire family (even the babies) and head to Bryant Park to celebrate to celebrate with mask-making, dancing, music and a magic show! Don’t miss the parade with beads, chocolate coins and warm apple cider (and remember to wear your purple, gold and green!). While you’re here, be sure to take a spin on the merry-go-round. Traditional New Orleans music will be performed by Dr. Zsa’s Zydeco Band.
Details: Bryant Park, NYC. FREE for all. All ages welcomed. Visit the website for more information.

Saturday, February 18th from 1pm — 3pm
Arts and Recreation at the Audubon Center
Naturalists at the Prospect Park Audubon Center will lead structured, fun and engaging arts activities combined with active play that will have kids up and moving like an animal or pretending to be a bat. Cool, right. Yeah… we thought so too!
Details: Audubon Center at the Boathouse, Prospect Park. Entrance near Lincoln Road and Ocean Avenue. FREE for all. Telephone: 718.287.3400. Visit the website for more information.

Saturday, February 18th at 1:30pm
Junior Engineer: Dig It! at The New York Transit Museum
If you’ve got a little digger on your hands, then you’d want to take them to this event. The museum will be handing out shovels and will work together with kids to dig up artifacts from the Museum’s pretend excavation site. The kids will have a blast!
Details: Corner of Boerum Place and Schermerhorn Street. Recommended for ages 4 and up. FREE with Museum admission. Contact 718.694.1600 or visit the website for more information.

Saturday, February 18th at 2:00pm
Knuffle Bunny Opening Day Gala at The Manhattan’s Children’s Theatre
Who doesn’t LOVE Mo Willems’ Trixie and her beloved Knuffle Bunny?! I know my son and I can’t get enough of that series! To celebrate Knuffle Bunny’s arrival at the Manhattan Children’s Theatre, they’re having a party!  Join them at the 2 p.m. performance on February 18th to help them open this much anticipated show in red carpet style! Woohoo! There will be door prizes for the adults, gifts for all the kids and chances to win your very own Knuffle Bunny! Then, you can hang out with the cast after the show for an interactive conversation and an autograph session, cake and treats, a craft for kids to do and other great surprises! Get excited!
Details: 380 Broadway, 4th Floor, NYC. All ages welcomed. Tickets: $40. Contact 212.226.4085 or visit the website for more information.

Saturday, February 18th from 2:30pm — 3:30pm
HandiWork: Tasks and Crafts from the Past at Lefferts Historic House
An afternoon of crafts? Sign me up! And if you and your children are anything like me, you’d want to check out this FREE event as well where kids will engage in arts, crafts, and games… just like they did in 19-Century Brooklyn. How’s that for a Saturday afternoon?
Details: Lefferts Historic House in Prospect Park. Willink Entrance (near intersection of Ocean Avenue and Empire BLVD. FREE for children under 16 years old. $3 suggested donation for adults on the weekends. Telephone: 718.789.2822. Visit the website for more information.

Saturday, February 18th at 2:30pm
Art Works at The Brooklyn Children’s Museum
Visit the Totally Tots area with your little ones to see what’s in store for that budding Picasso!
Details: 145 Brooklyn Avenue. 718. 735.4400. Ages 5 and under.

Saturday, February 18th at 3:00pm
President’s Day Storytime at The Scholastic Store
Do you know who’s stepping on who’s foot on the $2 bill?! Do you even remember the $2 bill?! Head on over to The Scholastic Store to find out the answer to this piece of trivia and more during this presidential storytime. A witty new book called Those Rebels, John and Tom paints a new picture of our country’s second and third presidents. After the reading, imagine your own presidential term and design your own self-portrait paper money.
Details: 557 Broadway, NYC. FREE for all. All ages welcomed. Call 212.343.6166 or visit the website for more information.

Saturday, February 18th: various times
27th Annual Half Moon New York Sword Ale
I think this event will be really cool and is certainly worth checking out. That is, if you like fun things. It will feature 12 teams in a weekend of performances in public spaces around the city. The festival, which Half Moon first organized in 1986, was the first event in North America to focus on English-style sword dancing. Sounds fun, right?
Schedule for Manhattan and Brooklyn Locations:
9:30am — All Teams — Staten Island Ferry Terminal, Whitehall Terminal at 1 Whitehall Street at South St.
1:00pm — Jefferson Market Public Library, 425 6th Avenue at 10th St.
1:00pm — South Street Seaport Museum, 12 Fulton Street (between Front and South Streets)
1:30pm — Dana Discovery Center, 110th St (5th Ave/Lenox Ave) in Central Park
1:30pm — George Bruce Branch Library, 518 West 125th St. at Amsterdam Avenue
3:00pm — Brooklyn Heights Library, 280 Cadman Plaza West at Tillary St., Brooklyn
3:00pm — Dana Discovery Center, 110th St. (5th Ave/Lenox Ave) in Central Park
3:00pm — Dwyer Cultural Center, 258 St. Nicholas Avenue (near 123rd St.)
3:00pm — Museum of the City of New York, 1220 5th Avenue at 103rd St.
3:00pm — South Street Seaport Museum, 12 Fulton Street (between Front and South Streets)
Details: All performances are free, but there is an admissions charge to enter the museums. Contact halfmoonsword@gmail.com or visit the website for more information.

SUNDAY FEBRUARY 19TH

Sunday, February 19th from 10:00am — 5:00pm
Kids Week 2012: Ringling Brothers Circus Performance at The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum
This event is definitely going to be a hit! I wish I didn’t have a schedule conflict, otherwise my son and I won’t certainly be the first ones there! The Ringling Brothers (yay!!!) will kick off the annual “Kids Week” at The Intrepid and at 1pm and 3pm there will be performers to dazzle audience members with their daring and unique routines that also teach children about scientific principles including gravity, balance and momentum. Kids can also enjoy the Circus Zone – where they can learn to juggle and spin plates – throughout the day.
Details: 46th Street at 12th Avenue, NYC. FREE for all with Museum admission. All ages welcomed. Contact 212.245.0072 or visit the website for more information.

Sunday, February 19th at 11am
Baby Stories and Singalongs at Greenlight Bookstore
Babies and toddlers under 3 years old will be highly entertained with stories, songs, and interactive play as the children’s performers Miss Nina, Jon Samson, and Vered take turns keeping them busy.
Details: Geared toward ages 3 years and under. Open to public, but on a first come, first served basis. 686 Fulton Street (at South Portland). Visit the website for more information.

Sunday, February 19th at 11am SOLD OUT
JUMPIN’ JUNIPER Presents Spellbound Theatre Wink at the Brooklyn Arts Exchange
Oh man, get ready for an interactive hour of theater with the classic story of Wynken, Blynken and Nod told through shadow puppetry.During the performance, a well-equipped playroom will be available in conjunction so that children and caregivers can take a break and return to the show at any time. The playroom will remain open until 1:00 pm.
Details : 421 5th Avenue, Brooklyn, NY. All are welcomed. $7/person, FREE for children 2 and under. Call 718.832.0018, email info@bax.org, or visit the website for more information or to purchase tickets.

Saturday, February 18h at 11:30 am
Play Lab Workshop: Marvelous Mardi Gras!
It is time for Mardi Gras! Explore this festive holiday as you learn its cultural significance and create a colorful mask to take home. For 2 1/2 to 5 yr olds
Details: 145 Brooklyn Avenue. Telephone: 718. 735. 4400. Visit the website for more information.

Sunday, February 19th at 12:30pm and 2:30pm
Puss in Boots at Puppetworks, Inc
If your child is a fan of the movie, then they will love this too! Now is the chance for them to find out what happens to this little kitten when he is given a pair of boots that turns out to be… wait for it… magical! This adorable tale will leave your child feeling enchanted, to asy the least.
Details: 338 6th Aevnue at 4th Street. Tickets: $7/child, $8/adult. Registration is suggested. Call 718.965.3391 or email puppetworks@verizon.net to reserve your tickets!

Sunday, February 19th from 1pm — 3pm
Arts and Recreation at the Audubon Center
Naturalists at the Prospect Park Audubon Center will lead structured, fun and engaging arts activities combined with active play that will have kids up and moving like an animal or pretending to be a bat. Cool, right. Yeah… we thought so too!
Details: Audubon Center at the Boathouse, Prospect Park. Entrance near Lincoln Road and Ocean Avenue. FREE for all. Telephone: 718.287.3400. Visit the website for more information.

Sunday, February 19th at 1:30pm
Junior Engineer: Dig It! at The New York Transit Museum
If you’ve got a little digger on your hands, then you’d want to take them to this event. The museum will be handing out shovels and will work together with kids to dig up artifacts from the Museum’s pretend excavation site. The kids will have a blast!
Details: Corner of Boerum Place and Schermerhorn Street. Recommended for ages 4 and up. FREE with Museum admission. Contact 718.694.1600 or visit the website for more information.

Sunday, February 19th from 2:30pm — 3:30pm
HandiWork: Tasks and Crafts from the Past at Lefferts Historic House
An afternoon of crafts? Sign me up! And if you and your children are anything like me, you’d want to check out this FREE event as well where kids will engage in arts, crafts, and games… just like they did in 19-Century Brooklyn. How’s that for a Saturday afternoon?
Details: Lefferts Historic House in Prospect Park. Willink Entrance (near intersection of Ocean Avenue and Empire BLVD. FREE for children under 16 years old. $3 suggested donation for adults on the weekends. Telephone: 718.789.2822. Visit the website for more information.

Sunday, February 19th from 6:00pm — 9:00pm
Family Bingo Night at The Moxie Spot
What a lovely way to end the weekend! Eat, drink, play, and win big! (Well, hopefully.) There will be little prizes for the little kids, who, by the way, can eat for FREE with the purchase of any dinner entree or dinner special. Yum!
Details: 81 Atlantic Avenue. Ages 4 and up. Contact 718.923.9710 or visit the website for more information.

Sunday, February 19th: various times
27th Annual Half Moon New York Sword Ale
I think this event will be really cool and is certainly worth checking out. That is, if you like fun things. It will feature 12 teams in a weekend of performances in public spaces around the city. The festival, which Half Moon first organized in 1986, was the first event in North America to focus on English-style sword dancing. Sounds fun, right?
Schedule for Brooklyn Locations:
12:30pm — Church of St. Luke and St. Matthew, 520 Clinton Avenue (between Fulton St. and Atlantic Avenue)
12:30pm — First Unitarian Church of Brooklyn, Pierrepont and Monroe Streets
12:30pm — Old First Reformed Church, 126 7th Avenue (between Carroll and Presidents Street)
1:00pm — St. John’s Episcopal Church, 139 St. Johns Place (between 6th and 7th Avenue)
2:30pm — All Teams — The Brooklyn Museum (auditorium), 200 Eastern Parkway
Details: All performances are free, but there is an admissions charge to enter the museums. Contact halfmoonsword@gmail.com or visit the website for more information.

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Post tags: animal havens, berenstain bears live show, brooklyn arts exchange, brooklyn childrens museum, carroll gardens, el museo, galli theater, greenlight bookstore, intrepid kids week, Lefferts Historic House, manhattans childrens theatre, New Victory Theater, new york transit museum, prospect park, puppetworks, supertall, symphony space, the amazing max and the box of interesting things, the moxie spot

Charles, our Music Listings Editor, said the hottest thing to do this weekend is to head to Super Sabado at El Museo del Barrio- a jubilant tradition with music, costumes, dance demonstrations, and art making for all ages. He insists that Lila Downs, Latin Grammy award winner, is worth the trip to El Museo to see Downs perform songs from her newly released album at Sabado (plus it’s a free event!) People love Karen K & The Jitterbugs and they are playing locally at the Jalopy Theater in Carroll Gardens. Arty Gras at Two Boots sounds like a real Mardi Gras fest with noisemakers and a brass band. Have a fabulous weekend!

Friday February 17^th

3:30 pm: Mil’s Trils
Mil’s Trills is a series of live interactive performances introducing families to the world of instruments.  Join Amelia Robinson and her electric ukulele as she leads families and musical guests playing original, quirky and whimsical songs.  This show features Tina Richerson on the saxophone.
For more info, go here.

Saturday February 18^th

11:00 am: The Okee Dokee Brothers
Inspired by childhood daydreams, the Okee Dokee Brothers use songs to transport the audience to multiple worlds, from an African safari to a ride on the Mississippi.
For more info, go here.

12:00 pm: The African-American Musical Mosaic
Kids (ages six and up) try their hand at mancala, an African board game played with seeds or stones that opponents seek to capture (noon–1pm). Assistant curator Alex de Voogt will be on hand to explain the rules and help iron out strategies. Afterward, enjoy live music performances from the Harlem Quartet, the First Corinthian Baptist Church, IMPACT Repertory Theatre, Charles Mack and Sandra-Reeves Phillips. Hip-hop aficionados will want to stick around for a chat and Q&A session at 5:15pm with Darryl “DMC” McDaniels (from Run-DMC), who will share some of his musical stylings after the discussion.
For more info, go here.

1:00 pm: Mil’s Trils Benefit Concert
Amerlia Robinson is back entertaining kids at this benefit concert for Jonah’s Just Begun – a not for profit 501(c)3, public charity committed to finding a cure for Sanfilippo Syndrome, a rare and deadly disease.  For sale: gently used clothes, toys & gear, household items + more!  plus family activities & food, bakesale. Donate Items: Accepting all item donations day of Bazaar 8-10am at St. John’s and eve before from 6-9pm.  Donate Cash: Cash donations will be graciously accepted onsite and at jonahsjustbegun.org.  $5 prize draw!
For more info, go here.

4:00 pm: Lila Downs at Super Sabado!
A friend insisted I go see Lila Downs at Celebrate Brooklyn and she was incredible.  It’s time for carnival at Super Sabado which is going to be lots of fun but make sure you see Lila Downs!
For more info, go here. (You need reservations).

5:00 pm: Karen K & The Jitterbugs Present: BugFest 2012
Brooklyn-based band Karen K & The Jitterbugs will have all the kids dancing along to new songs during its annual winter concert at the Jalopy Theatre.  Also on Sunday.
For more info, go here.

7:00 pm: Philadanco
Watch as this Philadelphia-based company brings its signature high-energy, high-speed dancing to the New Jersey. Let by founder and artistic director Joan Myers Brown, the group has acquired a reputation for its impressive athletic feats and youthful stage presence.
For more info, go here.

Sunday February 19^th

11:00 am: Bubble Do Beatles
This popular Beatles tribute band began performing the Fab Four’s tunes in 2005. Today, your tot can twist and shout to some of the group’s early rock & roll classics.
For more info, go here.

11:00 am: Jumpin’ Juniper Festival
Every Sunday during February, join the energetic, exhilarating Jumpin’ Juniper as she hosts an interactive hour of story, song, film or dance.   This week Juniper invites in the Jamal Jackson Dance Company.
For more info, go here.

1:00 pm: Arty Gras Festival and Parade
Join CMA to celebrate Mardi Gras and the 25th anniversary of New York’s legendary Two Boots Pizzeria. Create your own masks, noisemakers & floats and join us for a 4PM Arty Gras parade led by the Raya Brass Band.  The day will also feature a special pizza party from Two Boots.
For more info, go here.

2:00 pm: Korean Traditional Music and Dance Company
Little drummers keep the beat during a workshop and demonstration from this New York–based institute. Participants get an introduction to a style of drumming called modeum buk and pick up some dance steps to go with it.
For more info, go here.

2:00 pm: Jazz for Kids
Introduce your kids to the joys of jazz at the Jazz Standard’s weekly Sunday brunch program. The Jazz Standard Youth Orchestra, made up of talented youngsters between the ages of 11 and 18, provides the music, while your family chows down on a barbecue brunch from Blue Smoke. Doors open at 1pm.
For more info, go here.

(Many thanks to TONY Kids, Prospect Heights Patch, NY Metro Parents, and Mommy Poppins for listing info!)

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This details the new school zones for District 22, which covers South Kensington as well as Ditmas Park. Image courtesy of Kensington Post. This new zoning came out in 2012.

How’s this for maddening?! You call 311 (NYC’s information line) to find out what school you are zoned for, but when you arrive at your school to enroll, you are told that you aren’t actually zoned for that school. You were given the wrong information. Yes, this bureaucratic snafu is happening as Clara Hemphill wrote in this story broken by Inside Schools. Hemphill, writes, “the Department of Education has not updated its zone maps to reflect zoning changes on the Upper East Side, lower Manhattan and the Bensonhurst section of Brooklyn, so parents who call 311 to find out the name of their neighborhood school to register their kindergartners may get inaccurate information, Insideschools has learned. Schools affected on the Upper East Side are PS 158, PS 290, PS 151 and a new school, PS 527 which will open in September on East 91st Street in the Our Lady of Grace building. Schools affected in lower Manhattan are PS 89, PS 276, PS 397 and a new school, Peck Slip, which will open in the DOE headquarters in September.

In Brooklyn, PS 180, PS 164, PS 105, PS 69, PS 160, PS 163 and PS 200 in District 20 were also rezoned.”

So, why don’t the 311 operators have the correct information?

The Inside Schools story explains: In December, the District 2 Community Education Council (CEC), responsible for zoning, approved new school zones, effective this fall, to ease overcrowding and published them on its website. However, the 311 operators rely on the DOE maps for the current school year–not the maps that will be in effect in September–said Elizabeth Rose, the DOE official in charge of planning new schools. “It’s definitely challenging,” Rose told Insideschools.

So what do you do?
I suggest asking your neighbors and call the schools near you.

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Super Models!

If you haven’t been to the newly re-opened South Street Seaport Museum, winter break is a good time to plan a visit.  The renovated museum is a cool combination of historical information, model building and contemporary installation techniques. The Museum is a very short car/subway trip from Brooklyn and there is always tons to do at the South Street Seaport afterwards: from shopping to eating at a good restaurant for a lunch break. Here are 8 things you can see with your kids on a visit to the museum.

Super Models: Ship Replicas from the Collection showcases two dozen magnificently crafted ship models selected from among the South Street Seaport Museum’s collection of more than 2,500.

Bottled Up: Miniature Vessels from the Collection presents ships in bottles from the collection of the South Street Seaport Museum.  Ships include beautifully detailed miniature schooners, clippers, barks, and other sailing vessels. Also on view is a special “spoiler” installation that allows kids to learn the secret of how those boats fit through the necks of those tiny bottles.

Ship Breaking: Photographs by Edward Burtynsky provides kids with an opportunity to see how decommissioned ships are dismantled.

Handheld Devices: Tools from the Collection showcases hundreds of hand tools that were used in boat building, repair, and shore-side industries.  Touch screens allow kids to learn how the tools were originally used, introducing them not only to ship use of saws, hammers, planes, but to dividers, fids, and marlin spikes.

Family Programs: Adults with children ages 6 to 9 can visit a Museum exhibition with a professional educator for a family-friendly discussion and craft project about how objects and images tell the story of the past. Topics will include the island’s geography and ecology, what life was like in New Amsterdam, and more. Every other Saturday. Reservations necessary:(212) 748-8676 or reservations@seany.org

Mini Mates: drop-in program for children ages 18 months to 3 years old learning hands-on through arts and crafts, music and movement, play, and story time. Reservations required:(212) 748-8676 or reservations@seany.org

Mannahatta: Manhattan in 1609  – Kids can see what Manhattan looked like 400 years ago through large-scale digital renderings of seven locations on the island of Manhattan, including Times Square in 1609.

Waterline – see the cool overhead sculpture made of string and sinkers

Details:
South Street Seaport Museum
12 Fulton Street
New York NY 10038.

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Create a City at the New York Transit Museum

Not sure what to do over Winter Break? We have some great ideas that will keep you and your kids occupied to beat the cabin fever. We have found options from gaming to dance to growing seeds to building rockets. If we do get snow, you can always try any one of the hills that we recommend for sledding. With all the options out there, you will feel like the ultimate camp director and your children may be begging you not to go back to school!

The New York Transit Museum Special Programs During February School Break
To make your Winter Break extra fun the Transit Museum has extended hours and is offering 2 special activities each day.  From Tuesday, February 21 through Friday, February 24, the Transit Museum will be open to the public one extra hour, closing at 5 pm instead of its usual weekday closing time of 4 pm.  In addition, from Tuesday through Friday the Museum will offer two daily programs for kids of all ages, at 11am and 2:30 pm.  At 11am, the youngest transit fans are invited aboard one of the Museum’s vintage subway cars for Subway Storytelling, where they will enjoy selections from four or five of our favorite transit books. At 2:30 pm, the Create a City program gives kids the chance to artistically build their own model city, both above and below ground, using the fun materials in the Education Center. Both programs are free with paid museum admission of $5/child and $7/adult.  Weekend hours remain the same, from 11am until 5 pm. The Museum is closed on Mondays.
Details: Tuesday, February 21 through Friday, February 24, New York Transit Museum  Corner of Boerum Place & Schermerhorn Street, Brooklyn Pricing: $7/adult and $5/child

February Discovery Workshop. Photo by Rebecca Bullene.

February Break Discovery Week at the Brooklyn Botanic Garden
Travel the world’s deserts and rain forests with your family inside the BBG conservatories during February break! Children will use their senses to explore the indoor desert, rainforest, and warm temperate pavilions, go on plant hunts, and investigate incredible living plants at hands-on touch stations.  Each participant will make an explorer’s journal to take home, recording the sights, scents, and textures they discover. Join a story circle to learn about the plants and cultures in these habitats around the world. Each child will get to plant a seedling of their own in a mini terrarium to take home with them.
Details: Monday, February 20-Friday, February 24 11am – 1pm, Brooklyn Botanic Garden, 900 Washington Avenue, Prospect Lefferts Garden.

Brooklyn Children’s Museum Holiday Week
The BCM has extended their hours for the Mid-Winter Break to 9:30 am- 5 pm so you can enjoy all the activities they have planned from those celebrating Black History Month to those teaching about being environmentally conscious. Fun workshops include stamping fun, enacting a play about Harriet Tubman, jamming on African instruments and creating a spacecraft.
Details: Monday, February 20-Friday, February 24 9:30 am – 5pm, Brooklyn Children’s Museum 145 Brooklyn Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11213.

The Gym Park’s mini-camp
The Gym Park’s holiday camp only runs from Monday through Friday. You can choose from Full Day, Half Day or Extended Day:  Times: 9:00-3:00, 9:00-12:00, 12:00-3:00 pm, or 9:00-5:30pm. Costs are $85., $50 & $120 respectively. Ages: 3-12
Details: The Gym Park 81 Oak Street  Greenpoint, NY 11222

Barking Cat Studio Arts & Crafts for Everyone
Drop in for a monster week of arts and crafts with this Boerum Hill studio from February 20th – February 25th.
Little Hands Toddler Classes (18-42 mos) are making super-cute Lil’ Monster Pals. Monday – Friday 9:30 & 11am. 45-minute class.
Creative Cats Pre-K Only Classes (3 1/2+ – 5 yrs) are making Monster Pillows. Monday & Thursday 12:30pm. 60-minute class.
Creative Cats Classes (3 1/2+ – 6 yrs) Monday & Tuesday 4pm & Wednesday 4:45pm 60-minute class.
Art Explorers (7-12 yrs) are making Mad Monster Critter Pillows. Thursday 4pm. 90-minute class.
Details: Sign up online here:  or call 718-855-8050 to reserve your seat!

The Brooklyn Strategist’s Holiday Camp
This unique, community-based, interactive board and card-game center, café and social club offers a winter break program that is free choice of their entire game library in the morning, an hour lunch break (including park time is weather permits) and either tournament style play or creative game design and mechanics in the afternoons.  All activities are stratified by age groups and supervised by our staff (including game instruction and strategic approach).  Costs reduce depending on number of sessions and membership.  Full day is $99.00 and half day is $50.00. You can register for full day, half day and for the full week!  It’s almost sold out on Tuesday.
Details: The Brooklyn Strategist 333 Court Street  Brooklyn, NY 11231 Call (646) 470-3556

Mini Max President’s Week Crafts- free!
If you just need some mini-breaks during the week, Mini Max’s President’s Week Crafts are just right.
Each day the crafts take place from 11am-12pm.
Monday: Abe Lincoln Finger Puppets
Tuesday: Future President Pin
Wednesday: George Washington’s Cherry Tree
Thursday: Honest Abe’s Stove Top Hat
Friday: Crepe Paper American Flag
Every Day President’s Week (M-F) – Grab some crayons and color in the Presidents dressed as Superheroes!
Recommended Ages: 3+ (we will have someone assisting but the junior senators in the crowd may need some parental help)
Details: Mini Max Toys and Cuts 152 Atlantic Ave – Brooklyn, NY 11201  718.222.TOYS

Young Players Theater Creative Arts Splash
Children will spend their days engaged in arts-based games and activities. Programs will be supervised and led by professional and experienced teaching artists. For Pre-K-8th Grade. 9 am-3 pm. Sign up for individual days or an entire week. $75/day. Classes take place in Park Slope. Check their site for all locations.
Details: RSVP to kristen@yptheater.org 718-238-8383

Chelsea Piers
The Field House offers Half-Day Camp, Multi-Sport and Gymnastics Camp, Urban Adventure Camp, and Junior Golf Camp during school breaks. Camps run for ages 3-16 years, so there is something for every age. Multi-Sport Camp for ages 3-12 years offer young athletes the opportunity to learn a variety of sports: soccer, basketball, baseball, rock climbing and gymnastics. Urban Adventure Camp offers teens ages 12-16 years the activities of rock climbing, basketball, soccer, sand volleyball, ice skating, yoga, dance and indoor cycling. They offer early drop off at 8 am and after-care until 5:30 pm.  Otherwise the hours are from 8:45 am-3:30 pm.
Details: Click here for Holiday  Camp information.  23rd St. & the Hudson River  New York, NY 10011  212-336-6100‎

Bija Kids Yoga mini-camp
We did our summer camps here and my kids loved them- my oldest at 5 years cried when he couldn’t go one week.  Try out a yoga camp for your 3-8 year old in either half, full and extended day at Bija Kids. Activities include yoga session, eco-friendly art or craft  project, playtime, imaginative play, outdoor time (weather permitting), music sessions. Morning and afternoon snacks will be provided of organic fruit and whole grains
and a daily hot lunch (we can accommodate all dietary restrictions) will be provided by Red
Rabbit
Details: view details at Bija Kids. 900 Fulton Street between Waverly and Washington Aves in Clinton Hill.

Art Shack mid-winter art camp
The Art Shack‘s February Break Camp where kids get kids get to do a combo of sculpture, 2-D projects, ceramics and printmaking.  They will be visiting local artists’ studios as well.  They provide snack and hot cocoa, and play outside if/when weather permits.  M-F 8:30- 3:00, Aftercamp will be available until 4 pm: Ages 5-9: $525 for the week
Details: Register here. The Art Shack is located at 131 Clifton Place, between Franklin and Classon, in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn. The nearest subways are the G train (classon stop) and the C to Franklin. For details visit their site.

President’s Week Arts Program at BAX
This performing arts program offers a President’s Week Arts Program that explores theater, musical theater, dance, singing, tumbling. They might do theater games, storytelling, dance sessions, tumbling, yoga musical, make board games and more! Limited to 30 children. Camp goes from 9:00am-3:00pm for children in grades K-5th. Register by the day, or for the entire week.
Details: Brochure is here. 421 5th Avenue  Brooklyn, NY 11215  718-832-0018  (Drop-off 8:30-9:00 & late pick-up option 3:00- 5:00). For more info, visit their site.

Aviator Sports and Events (INDOORS)
Aviator Sports is a mammoth event space. It has twin NHL regulation (200’ x 85’) sheets of ice, an enormous gym, basketball courts, fitness rooms, climbing walls, video games, restaurant, euro bungie, fields and games. For their holiday camps, they use the whole facility for a wide variety of activities: read- gymnastics, basketball, and other sports. The camp is for ages 3-15 and runs from 9:00am-4:00pm (early and late dismissal available) . $88 per day or $500 for the whole week
Details: Click here to download their holiday break camp brochure.  http://www.aviatorsports.com/holiday-break-camps/ 3159 Flatbush Ave , just south of Belt Parkway (Exit 11S,  Brooklyn, NY 11234
General info: 718-758-7500

Juguemos a Cantar Holiday Camp
Juguemos a Cantar is a can enjoy play, reading, music and arts and crafts in a structured Spanish immersion environment.
Details: Ages: 2 – 10 years

Intrepid Sea, Air and Space Museum Kids Week
The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum will host its annual “Kids Week” from Saturday, February 18 – Sunday, February 26.  During “Kids Week,” children will have the opportunity to participate in dozens of fun, educational and interactive activities while they are on vacation during Presidents’ Week.
Saturday, February 18: Circus Weekend.  Guest performances by Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Circus at 1 PM and 3 PM.
Sunday, February 19: Circus Weekend.  Guest performances by Ringling Brothers and Barnun & Bailey Circus at 1 PM and 3:00 PM.
Monday, February 20: Space & Aviation Day.  Appearance by NASA Astronaut Mario Runco at 1:00 PM. Kids can witness special flight demonstrations with live hawks, owls, ravens and more at 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM from the Talons! Birds of Prey Experience.  Guests can also get potato-ized!  Animation artists from Little Airplane Productions, the producers of the hit Disney Junior TV show and Facebook phenomenon Small Potatoes, will be on hand throughout the day to turn your family into Small Potatoes characters, suitable for framing! Appearances from the 501st Legion and Empire City Garrison STAR WARS characters throughout the day.  Aviation themed tours in the Hanger decks with Museum tour guides will also be available all day.
Tuesday, February 21: Guest performances by Broadway shows Anything Goes, Godspell, Rock of Ages, Priscilla Queen of the Desert and Sister Act starting at 12:00 PM.  Performance by Off-Broadway’s Million Dollar Quartet at 2:00 PM. Interactive displays and activities throughout the day.
Wednesday, February 22: Puppet Day.  Guest performances by Puppetry Arts Theatre from 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM; arts and crafts, face painting and puppet-making activities throughout the day. Appearance by Sesame Street Live! characters at 12:30 PM and 1:00 PM
Thursday, February 23: Sports and Recreation Day.  United States Coast Guard Helicopter landing on Flight Deck at 1:00 PM. Patrick McEnroe will lead tennis demos with children and guests at 1:30 PM.  Special appearances and activities from the NY Rangers, Knicks and Liberty street teams from 10:00 AM – 5:00 PM.  United States Tennis Association activities, interactive games at the Coca Cola Sports Zone and demonstrations from the United States Marine Corps US Army throughout the day.
Friday, February 24: Birthday Party Day.  Guest performances by the Bari Koral Family Band at 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM, and the Gazillion Bubbles Show at 1:00 PM and Voca People at 3:00 PM. Special “kids talk” tours will be given in the Intrepid Kitchen and a Coca Cola Bear Bounce will be available throughout the day.  Balloon artists will make special creations for kids from 12:00 PM – 3:00 PM.
Saturday, February 25: Safari Weekend.  Snakes and Scales live animal appearances at 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM.  Jenkinson’s Aquarium presentations with a live penguin at 12:00 PM and 2:00 PM.  The Central Park Zoo Theater Company will perform at 1:00 PM and 2:30 PM.  Interactive displays with the United States Coast Guard, Bronx Zoo and New York Aquarium throughout the day.
Sunday, February 27: Safari Weekend. Snakes and Scales live animal demonstrations at 12:00 PM and 3:30 PM.  Performances by Central Park Theater Company at 1:00 PM and 2:30 PM.  Interactive displays with the United States Coast Guard, Bronx Zoo and New York Aquarium throughout the day.

In addition the special events and appearances, staff of the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum Education Department will lead interactive, education demonstrations throughout each day.
Details: Dates and times are subject to change.  For the most updated information, please visit www.intrepidmuseum.org. Pier 86 (46th Street and 12th Avenue), Manhattan

Imagine Digital Winter Camp at Film Biz Recycling
Your child can immerse themselves in a week-long journey into film making, where they will experience every aspect of the craft. This new camp will run from February 20th – February 24th, and is ideal for ages 7-10. Your child will participate in: – conceptualizing and writing the story – creating the sets, props and costumes – casting and acting – editing the final project. Best of all, each child will receive a DVD of their final work!  All morning snacks will be provided by Imagine This! Children must register for the entire week. Space is limited to 12 students, to ensure full participation for each child.
Details: Film Biz Recycling Address: Google Map 540 President St, Brooklyn, NY, 11215, United States

Ride on Jane’s Carousel
This is a great time to ride a horse- in the indoors. Hop on Jane’s Carousel for a spin during their Winter Hours of Operation: 11am  – 6pm, Thursdays-Sundays. Children age 3 and younger and those under 42” tall may ride free if accompanied by a paying adult.
Details: Tickets: $2. More information: www.janescarousel.com

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The Brooklyn Crescents

Lacrosse is a big deal in our house and I was thrilled to learn that this year, The Brooklyn Crescents Lacrosse Club has expanded their program to include PreK kids. That means I can get two kids out on the field this year!  According to the 2011 Sporting Goods Manufacturer Association Participation Report, Lacrosse is America’s fastest growing sport with a 33% growth among frequent participants and 37.7% growth among all participants. Why? I think it’s for a few reasons: anyone of any height or weight can play, it’s a game of skill, it’s fast and it’s a great team sport. Plus you can actually practice it on your own, unlike football, basketball or baseball.

My friend wrote me yesterday to say that “both (her) boys have done this program last spring and fall and it was great.” She has even taken on assistant coaching- she loves it that much!

The Brooklyn Crescents Lacrosse Club is a lacrosse program in Brooklyn for children in PreK through 8th grade.  They “embrace the principles of  US Lacrosse and the Positive Coaching Alliance.” The PreK-2nd grade program introduces young players to the sport of lacrosse through fun skill drills. No games are played against other opponents.  The 3rd through 8th graders play intramural games as well as play several other area clubs during the season.

And, although the Beginner Clinic doesn’t start until March 3rd, they have opened registration.  The 2012 Spring season will run from March 4th through June 17th. The practice & home game fields are on the campus of Poly Prep in Bay Ridge, Brooklyn. They practice on Sundays and play games on Saturdays & Sundays throughout the season.

The Sunday practices on the Poly Prep three fields are schedule as follows:
PeeWees – PreK to 2nd Graders at 11:00 am to 12:30 pm
Girls 3rd & 4th Graders at 11:00 am to 12:30 pm
Girls 5th & 6th Graders at 8:00 am to 9:30 am
Girls 7th & 8th Graders at 9:30 am to 11:00 am
Boys 3rd & 4th Graders at 11:00 am to 12:30 pm
Boys 5th & 6th Graders at 8:00 am to 9:30 am
Boys 7th & 8th Graders at 9:30 am to 11:00 am

Details:
Beginners Clinic will be held on March 3rd at Poly 10 am. This clinic is for the first time player. Coaches will review the basics of lacrosse so that the first day of practice is more enjoyable and less intimidating.
Fees are $75 for PreK-2nd Graders & $225 for 3rd – 8th Graders. All players are required to be members of US Lacrosse which is $25. All fees can be handled on line with additional information available at BrooklynCrescents.org
. Questions or additional information: info@BrooklynCrescents.org. http://www.facebook.com/BKCrescentsLax

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