Thank you, Real Life Studios, for capturing Team RVAEpicTales in photos.

Please join us for our first Adopt-a-Classroom Fundraiser on our Chevy Challenge to drive from Richmond, VA to Austin, TX together in 2.5 days, raising funds and awareness for this amazing cause. When we land in Texas, we’ll be at the amazing SXSW Interactive conference soaking up anything and everything web, social media, you name it!

We’re using our monthly Richmondmom.com Wine Down Wednesday format at The Wine Loft Richmond in West Broad Village to raise funds for a local Richmond classroom, and all the details are here.

It’s just $5 per person and we’ll be doing lots of great

This is our ride. . .1417 miles. Cool, huh?

giveaways. We’re super-excited and hope you’ll join us! Follow us along on our RVAEpicTales Facebook page for real-time updates on our journey.

We’d love to share the epic tales with you!

(Don’t miss the $25 savings at VA 529 with your Savvy Saver card below!).

Virginia 529 – the Virginia College Savings Plan – which sponsors the Commonwealth’s four tax- advantaged 529 college savings programs, recently was named one of the 2012 Best Places to Work in Virginia. The annual list of “Best Places to Work” was created by Virginia Business and Best Companies Group. Virginia 529 was the ONLY government agency, in any category, to be recognized on the list in 2012.

The evaluation included a two-part process. The first part was based on workplace policies, practices, philosophy, systems and demographics. The second part was an employee survey which measured how satisfied employee’s were with the environment and the workplace.

Richmondmom.com salutes Virginia 529 as a great place to work – and for the great opportunity they offer for parents to prepare for their children’s college years.

Don’t forget to sign up for a Virginia College Savings 529 Plan for your children or grandchildren too. You can save $25 when you use your Savvy Saver Discount Card.

Virginia College Savings 529 programs rock!

Virginia College Savings 529 Plan is an advertiser on Richmondmom.com

Would you like to save $25 by opening a savings account for your child’s future education? How about getting free admission for one to the Science Museum of Virginia, or 1/2 price tickets to the theatre? Maybe you’d like to get 10% off new fashions for your home, or save $10 on a facial. We’ve got great discounts waiting for you right here – and there are no gimmicks, fees, registration requirements, or hidden costs!

Hundreds of Richmond moms love our Savvy Saver Card and there are plenty of good reasons – check them out and you’ll love them too.

If you don’t have your card yet, be sure to visit this link to download a copy and request a tri-fold card by mail here. Dozens of Richmond moms and dads have already taken advantage of great savings with their card.

Wondering why you should request your own Savvy Saver card?

Here are some fantastic reasons for you to consider:

Hayes & Fisk offers a complementary session fee valued at $150.

Real Life Studios offers $150 off a Real Life Birthday Party.

Get 10% off 2 or more custom window treatments at Sewinit’ where you’ll also find duvets, pillows, monogrammed items, accessories, and more.

The Science Museum of Virginia has a “Buy One Get One Free Friday” offer on Savvy Saver.

Core Kids Academy offers 50% off one session (8 week term) for babies classes.

Great Wolf Lodge gives an incredible 20% off best available room rates and spa services.

Enrollment fee is waived for tutoring and you can buy 3 sessions and get the 4th one free at College Nannies & Tutors.

Hip to be Round makes clothes and accessories affordable and you can save an additional $15 off a $75 purchase with your card.

Save $25 registration fee when you enroll in Virginia College Savings Plan 529 – get your card to get the code.

Tuckaway waives registration fees for new enrollment.

Spirited Art offers loads of fun with 20% off any adult class using your Savvy Saver code.

Enjoy 1/2 price children’s tickets (limit 4 per show) at Theatre IV.

Eat healthy and delicious food with 5% off catering services at Green Monkey Catering or 10% off gourmet gift baskets.

The Wine Loft offers 20% off Monday nights for Mom’s Night Out.

Dream Dinners is even easier when yo use the 10% off discount on any order of 36 servings or more.

Gundlach is there when you need them with a 10% discount on all repairs.

Richmond Rocks and you can get FREE shipping on any signed copy only through kate@richmondmom.com with your card.

See clearly with Virginia Eye Institute’s offer of 30% off eyeglasses, sunglasses and accessories and 10% off contact lenses when you use your Savvy Saver card.

Enjoy a performance at Barksdale Theatre with $5 off each Barksdale performance ticket (limit 8 tickets).

Mediation and resolving issues is easier and less expensive with Mosaic Mediations and you can get 20% off all mediation packages.

Just present your Savvy Saver card and get a free week pass at any American Family Fitness.

When it comes to food, RELAY makes it easy and you get $5 off orders of $50 or more with the code on your card.

Brain Balance includes a $50 discount on evaluations when you take advantage of their free Parent Seminar.

$10 off a luxurious Murad Signature Facial at Massage Envy awaits on your Savvy Saver card.

Mom’s Treehouse is rocking with fun with 20% off first time fitness program purchase and $25 off any Mom’s Treehouse Host-Your-Party Rental.

Leave a comment below and let us know what you love most about your Savvy Saver card. Let us know what you’ve used your card for and how much you saved. We’d love to know how much our Richmond moms, dads, grandparents, and friends are saving!

Richmondmom.com Savvy Saver Discounts are offered by advertisers on Richmondmom.com

Abrakadoodle  Abrakadoodle art parties are offered at convenient community locations or in your home!  Many different party themes, all including an edu-taining ARTrageous art teacher, age-appropriate art activities and art lessons, and a framed piece of each child’s original art – the best party favor ever!

Air brush gypsy  Interactive entertainment for any party!  Providing airbrush face painting and tattoos, along with “Funshops” on balloon animal making, tie-dye, and more.

All Fired Up  Celebrate your next birthday at All Fired Up! We have private party rooms and special activities for groups of all ages.  Each party package includes a private party room, a personal party assistant, a project for each child, all the supplies and firings and a complimentary gift for the guest of honor.  Carytown and Midlothian locations.

AMF Bowling  From bumper bowling for kids to delicious food and refreshing beverages to Xtreme bowling featuring a flood of lights and sounds, your party or event at AMF is guaranteed to be a total blast.  Contact your local AMF Bowling Center for specific pricing details.  Minimum of 8 people per party.

Arena Racing  Arena Car Racing is a kid-friendly, exciting sport series.  If you just wanted a fun place to take your family, have a birthday party for kids young and old, or just a new place to get out of the house, this is a very fun option.

Astro events  While we are known for our Original Astro Jump, we also offer a variety of bounce house rentals, moonwalk rentals and other inflatable games and entertainment.  You will be amazed by our selection of fun and often hard to find party rentals and supplies.

Ben Franklin  Choose from a variety of crafts, and your child and guests will enjoy a fun crafting experience while celebrating their special day.  Instructors will assist with craft projects and help serve whatever cake or refreshments you bring for the party.  Ages 6-12.

Boomer’s Bouncers  Boomer’s Bouncers is your premier source for inflatable party rentals.  We offer a great selection of party rentals including bouncers, obstacle courses, slides, combo units, carnival games and characters in the Richmond, Virginia area. Our party rentals are perfect for any event.

Bowl America  Kids love our parties–and it’s a piece of cake for the parents too! From setup to cleanup, we do all the work so that the whole family has time to enjoy the happy occasion. And with our all-inclusive Birthday Party Plans, all you have to do is select your food plan and a date and we’ll do the rest.

Build a Bear Workshop  Each guest makes their own stuffed animal friend!  Every scheduled party includes a photo and gift for the guest of honor, party favors for all party guests, printable invitations & thank you cards at buildabear.com, plus virtual party perks!  You set the price, starting at just $10 per guest.

Cartwheels and Coffee  Celebrate your child’s birthday at Richmond’s playland designed with parents in mind.  Birthday packages start at $89, which includes 1 hour of private party room time, admission, balloon and juice box for each child and pot of coffee for the grown-ups.  Upgraded packages available as well.

Center for Creative Arts  The Center offers unique birthday parties tailored to your child – choose from either an Art Party or a Kindermusik Party.  Activities are customized to your child and the ages of the children.  Party time slots are for 2 hours total.  The Center provides a separate room where you may serve cake and ice cream, and receive gifts.

Children’s Museum of Virginia  Enjoy an exciting, well-organized party in a one-of-a-kind learning environment! The party fun starts in a special celebration room, and continues with exploration of the entire Museum. Each party package includes a dedicated Birthday Buddy to run fun games and activities, full day admission for guests, a goody bag and balloon for each child and party supplies. Parties are available at CMoR Central and CMoR Short Pump.

Chuck E Cheese  Chuck E. Cheese’s features age appropriate games, rides, prizes, food and entertainment that children of all ages will love.  Birthday parties include 2 hours of reserved table space, a party host, 20 tokens per child, pizza and drinks, special goodies for the Guest of Honor.  Upgraded party packages available.  Two Richmond locations.

Color Me Mine  Richmond’s paint-it-yourself ceramics studio.  Multiple party packages tailored to your child’s age and interests.  Parties include private party room, dedicated staff member to assist, and all the supplies needed for artists of all abilities to create their masterpieces.

Core Kids Acamdemy  Choose to have your child’s celebration at our bright and whimsical facility with exciting gymnastics equipment that your child will flip for!  Or, choose Core Kids’ Mobile, In-Home parties to have the fun at your place!

Divas N Dudes  Divas-n-Dudes is the hottest place in town for parties & celebrations! Each party is designed to be  memorable & fun-tastic!  Parties include themed up-do, nail polish, glitter make-up, dress up, 2 party hostesses, juice boxes, 1:45 minutes in party room, karaoke, a special gift For The Birthday Girl and more.

Frostings  Throw your child a cupcake decorating party at Frostings!  The Short Pump cupcake bakery offers several party packages, all of which include a 90 minute party led by 2 instructors where children can learn the fun art of cupcake decorating – from wacky cupcake animals to sophisticated sugar flowers – along with other fun games and activities.  For ages 5 and up.

Fun Bus  Treat your child to a birthday they will remember forever. One of our unique and specially designed buses will pull right up to your house with FUN for everyone!  Children will be taught by two certified Fun Bus instructors on our child-safe equipment. A Fun Bus birthday party is 1 hour in length (more time can be purchased) and is appropriate for ages 2-7.

G Force carts  Be the envy of the neighborhood with the ultimate birthday party at G-Force Karts!  Choose from karting parties, laser tag parties, or inflatable parties in the Adventure Zone.  Multiple packages offered at different price points.

GymQuest  Your child and their friends will have a great time cartwheeling, flipping and flying through the gym!  Party fee includes 60 minutes in the gym, 30 minutes in the party room, custom invitations, gym rental, coaches fees, AND surprise for the birthday child.  Ages 4 and up.

Healthy Little Chef  Healthy Little Chef offers creative cooking classes using healthy and nutritional recipes that teach your child new skills.  We specialize in organic, natural and gluten free foods.  If you have a theme or menu in mind we will do our best to accommodate you.  Ages 4-12

Kangaroo Jac’s  This indoor inflatable party center for children 10-and-under (and height less than 60 inches) hosts birthday parties including clean-up and set-up and allows kids to burn off extra energy after eating their cake. Ages < 10.

Kids in the Kitchen  Celebrate your child’s special day with a hands-on cooking birthday party — invite their friends and we’ll make their favorite treats. We do the work so you can relax and enjoy the party. Ages 3 and up.

Kindermusik Richmond  Children and music go hand in hand, combine them both in a birthday party and leave the entertainment to us! Kindermusik parties include at least 60 minutes of musical fun using instruments, songs, movement, stories, and so much more! Activities are customizable to your child and the ages of the children.

La Petite Pazzazz  La Petite Pazzazz offers a variety of hair care and spa services for kids, and boasts several exciting birthday party packages to choose from, including Rockstar Princess, Sweetest Divas, Once Upon a Time, and Tween Dream.  Your birthday girl can pick from manis and pedis, hair styling, make up, dress up and karaoke!  All packages include cupcakes and drinks.

Laser Quest  This is the birthday party that takes the cake – an LQ birthday party is non-stop fun, whether you’re turning 7 or 40.  Party package includes two Laser Quest games, private party room, complimentary pass for the guest of honor and a Two for One pass for all other quests (for a future date) and more.

Lewis Ginter Botanical Garden  Our Birthday Party package provides a 45 minute reserved program that includes a guided garden experience for children ages 3-12 lead by an LGBG Play Pal. For more information and to reserve a Birthday Party, phone the Garden Registrar at 262-9887, ext.322.

Mad Science Laboratory  Be amazed by indoor fireworks, bubbling potions, spectacular chemical reactions, real rocket launches, vortex generators, movie special effects, ooey, gooey slime and much more!  Mad Science will come to your home, or you can do the party at their Innsbrook location.  Perfect for kids 4 to 12 years old.

Master Cho’s Tae Kwon Do  Each party is filled with specially designed activities and games, making it possible for every child to have fun while learning basic Tae Kwon Do skills. A trained instructor will supervise and coordinate everything from beginning to end.  No prior martial arts experience is required to participate, so everyone 4 & up will be able to join in.

Maymont  Kids love the animals, wide open spaces, carriage rides and the Maymont Mansion.  There’s a special package for every young member of the family.  Step back in time aboard a horse drawn carriage, enjoy a wild and wonderful party at the Nature Center, celebrate with a sweet tea on the Maymont Mansion porch or feed the friendly farm animals and take a hay wagon ride.

Michaels Crafts  Book an arts and crafts party for your child! Michaels will create a party project just for you.  Parties include project preparation and set up, crafting assistance for party guests, a keepsake apron for the guest of honor, and fun invitations.

Patterson Sports Park  Have fun at your child’s next birthday party without breaking the bank!  Basic party package includes exclusive use of our banquet pavilion that seats up to 80 people and 20 activity passes. You have your choice of activity passes for either miniature golf games or batting cage tokens.  Upgraded party package available as well.

PB&J Gourmet  PBJ Gourmet hosts in-home cooking parties where children cook up FUN! Call 804-647-8355 or visit pbjgourmet.com.

Peak Experiences  Voted by Style Weekly Magazine readers as the “Best Place to Have a Birthday Party”, you can treat your guest-of-honor and friends to an unforgettable experience!  Peak staff will outfit climbers in harnesses and helmets, tie their climbing knots and encourage them throughout an hour and a half of climbing, followed by 30 minutes of party time.

Playroom Fun  Playroom Fun has a great selection to choose from – bounce houses, inflatable slides, water slides, obstacle courses, large inflatable movie screen with projector and sound equipment, chairs, tables, and concessions including: popcorn machines, sno-kones, cotton candy, and hot dog steamer.  We deliver to Fredericksburg, Richmond, and surrounding areas.

Pump It Up  Celebrate in Pump It Up’s private indoor arenas, filled with gigantic inflatable slides, bounce houses, obstacle courses and more. Celebrate in your own private party room that our party coordinators set up and clean up for you. Available options including pizza, drinks, balloons and goodie bags make party planning stress-free.

Putt Putt Fun Center  Choose from multiple birthday packages, including “The Ultimate” which includes two hours of putt-putt golf, games and refreshments, and “The Extreme” which adds in Go-Karts and Bumper Boats.  “Teen Party Packs” are also offered for partiers age 12 and up.

The birthday child also receives their own photo session at Real Life Studios.

Real Life Studios This is a great way to capture your child’s birthday through photos while they’re partying—the Real Life team will customize the party to the kid-princess, rockstar, you name it–and their friends will play dress-up, have their photos taken together, and leave with their own decorated frame and photo to remember the event. **Save on this party with your Richmondmom.com Savvy Saver Card.

Regal Theaters  Looking for something special for a Birthday party?  Head to the movies at a Regal Entertainment Group theatre! Make your favorite person a “Star for a Day” with their own party at the movies!  Party rooms are available at most theatres.

Regency Dance  Celebrate your birthday at Regency Dance Academy.  Creative dance parties for children.  Jazz or Hip Hop parties for teens.  $150 for parties up to 12, call 804-740-4966 for further information or to make a reservation.

Richmond Indoor Sports Experience  Let RISE be the place for your son or daughter’s next birthday party.  Excellent party packages available!  Call 804.744.4600 to get more information and/or check availability for your child’s party today.

Richmond Olympiad  Richmond Olympiad offers your child exciting and unique birthday parties!  Your guests will have fun with balloons, a trampoline, foam pit, relay races, parachute and obstacle course.  Parties available for ages 2 to 12.

Richmond SPCA  Voted the second most popular place to hold a children’s birthday party in Richmond in 2009 by the readers of Richmond Magazine.  Animal interaction, age-appropriate crafts and games, and an SPCA party administrator, plus we provide party supplies and an animal-related goody bag for each child!  To schedule a birthday party call 804-521-1327.

Richmond Squirrels  Your Birthday Bash will be held in the ORC Birthday Zone down the right field line. The party will run for one hour prior to the game and include a visit from Nutzy.  Each package includes 10 tickets; more can be added at an additional cost.  Party also includes Diamond Club seating, a ticket to the Kids Zone for each guest, the first pitch for the birthday boy or girl, and much more!

River City Youth Fitness  Give your child a rockin’ River City Gymnastics or Dance birthday party!  Parties held on Saturdays, and include 1 hour in the gym and 45 minutes in the party room.  Personal party coaches will assist the kids with obstacle courses, parachute games and musical fun.  Ages 4 and up.

Romp N Roll  The Romp n’ Roll Birthday Bash has been voted the best party for the under six crowd in Richmond. It is an hour and a half of action packed excitement including activities, a moon bounce, a trapeze, a rock wall and more. Our A+ staff does all the work so you can have all the fun.  Westpark 804.249.5001 • Midlothian 804.893.3142 • Virginia Center 804.249.1001

Schoodio  Let Schoodio come to your house for your next birthday celebration.  We will bring everything needed to entertain children of all ages in a fun and creative environment.  All you need to do is add cake!  Please call us for more information, 804-502-1067.

Science Museum of Virginia  Celebrate your child’s birthday with a unique experience at the Science Museum!  Parties are held on a vintage train car.  Party guests enjoy hands-on activities and then have a chance to visit the museum’s exhibits.  Guest of honor goes home with a special t-shirt!

Skateland, Ashland  Parties start at $85 and include admission, regular skate rental, small drink, popcorn, one reserved table for the entire session, birthday T-shirt for birthday child, microphone announcement & birthday song, and courtesy invitations.  Party upgrades and private rink parties are also available.

Skateland, Richmond  Parties held on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, $5.00 per guest (minimum of 5 guests), includes skate rental, chips, and drink.

Skate Nation Plus  Choose from skating or laser tag parties for the bigger kids, or a moon bounce party for the little ones.  Basic packages include a party table reserved for 90 minutes along with a party host, arcade tokens and drink for each guest, and a special t-shirt for the birthday star.  Upgraded packages also available.

Space Walk  Regardless of your party needs or party size, Space Walk is sure to have everything you need to make your party memorable & successful. After all, we are the inventors of the first inflatable amusements. We also have one of the largest selections in the U.S. with hundreds of locations across the country.

Spirited Art  Spirited Art is a creative class for folks who want to learn the basics of acrylic painting.  You may choose your painting from among any kid’s paintings offered by Spirited Art or we can discuss other ideas that interest your child.  Our kid’s paintings are designed to take approximately 1 hour, so there will be plenty of time for socializing and cake and ice cream!  We require a minimum of 12 children for a children’s party, at $20 per person.

Sports Center of Richmond  Kids can enjoy one of our themed parties then adjourn to the “Papa John’s Party Zone” to enjoy a fun-filled celebration. Our goal is for you to relax in a safe family sports complex. Watch the kids have fun while we take care of the mess!  Choose from several fun party themes.

Sweet Spot  Sweet Spot is a modern reinvention of the traditional small-town sweet shop, where friends and families can gather, milestones can be celebrated, and memories can be made.  No matter what type of party you’re planning, Sweet Spot can help make it sweeter.  Whether you choose to host a party in our vibrant and inviting shop or incorporate candy into your party elsewhere, Sweet Spot’s Party Packages are sure to please!

The Little Gym  Your group will have the whole place to yourselves with games, music and fun activities created especially for your birthday kid. Our trained instructors will lead all the fun and The Little Gym team will handle everything from setup to cleanup.

The Playroom of Chester  The Playroom specializes in parties for kids 1-10 years old.  Kids can play, parents can relax, and you can enjoy the party.  Every party includes a Private Party room for your celebration.  Basic party packages start at $99 and can be upgraded to include pizza and drinks, a party host, goody bags and even a character visit!

The Science Place  The Science Place will bring a fun-filled science party to your home!  Basic party package includes 1 hour of action-packed science fun, goodie bags with take home experiments for everyone and a science gift for the birthday child.  You can also choose from upgraded packages with fun themes such as Space Blast, Dinosaur Dig, Glamour Girl and Scary Shindig.

Twist Gymnastics  Swing on bars, jump on trampolines, climb and tumble through obstacle courses!  Our experienced and energetic instructors will lead games and other activities appropriate to the ages of the participants for an hour, and then it’s off to the party area to continue the fun!

Village Dance  For children ages 3 and up, we offer birthday dance parties on Fridays and Saturdays.  One hour of dance instructor is provided followed by a half hour of party fun.  Call for more information.

Weinstein JCC  Choose from a pool party, sports party or dance party for your child aged 2 and up.

YMCA  Choose from a pool party, gymnastics party or rock wall party; see your local YMCA for offerings and details.

Young Chefs Academy  Come celebrate and be the chef of the day with us at Young Chefs Academy! All of our birthday parties are filled with interactive, hands-on cooking and delicious fun.  You supply the chefs, we’ll supply the rest.

Green Monkey Catering

A Mad Hatter Tea Party is scheduled for Saturday, March 10, 2012 from 3:00 – 4:30 p.m. at Glave Kocen Gallery (1620 West Main Street). It’s shaping up to a be a topsy-turvy, crazy, fun event for moms and daughters. The event is $30 per person and includes children age 5 and older.

To make this event even more fun and exciting, Lisa Granger, Green Monkey CEO and Chef, is recommending everyone wear their very favorite, special hat to the event. The more colorful and elaborate – the better! After all, The Mad Matter Tea Party is all about whimsical, fun and playful.

Make reservations for the tea by calling 804.740.6659 as soon as possible. Their monthly teas will be a sell-out, so the sooner you register, the better.

Green Monkey Catering is an advertiser on Richmondmom.com

Yep – Hayes & Fisk says Happy Spring with bunnies again this year – but it’s for a short time only. You can get incredible photos and portraits of your children with adorable bunnies. This has been a very popular time offer for moms and kids in years past, and they all just love the cuddly bunnies!

Hayes & Fisk has gorgeous photo collections and a wall portrait sale to make their photos even more affordable. You can even get a free 5X7 with any purchase and they have lots more to offer their customers.

Hayes & Fisk knows the art of photography and they have the pictures to prove it. Visit their website or call them at 804.740.9307 to take advantage of the Happy Spring sales.

And don’t forget to check your Savvy Saver card for discounts too.

Richmondmom.com loves Hayes & Fisk – and we’re sure you will too!

Hayes & Fisk is an advertiser on Richmondmom.com

Summer Camp registration has begun!  Check out our listing of 2012 Richmond summer activities for kids of all ages!

We are adding information daily.  Please check back often.  We also encourage you to share your favorite camp or camp experience in the comments below.

Please submit your camp information to info@richmondmom.com.

All Fired Up Registration is OPEN.  Camps run from June 18 – August 24 for ages 6 – 14. Early Bird Registration: 10% off the camp fee discounted for sign up by March 15th

Camp Friendship Registration is OPEN.  Camps run from June 17 – August 18. Ages 7 – 17.

Camp Hanover Registration is OPEN.  Camps run from June 18 – August 22.  1st through 12th grade.

Camp Motorsport Registration is OPEN. Camps run from July 1 – August 3.  Ages 9 – 16.

Collegiate School Summer Quest Registration is OPEN.  Camps run from June 11 – August 16. Kindergarten – 12th grade.

CORE Kids Academy - Registration starts 2/20 for 2- 5 and 6+ year olds.  Camps run from June 19 through August 30.

Green Monkey Catering is offering four opportunities for kids to attend a summer camp on Food and Etiquette this year. These camps offer valuable information and skills for kids from age 9-18. There are different sessions based on age and all camps include a healthy, organic lunch and lots of time to practice table manners and social skills. Call 804.740.6659 to register.

HATTheatre - Registration is OPEN. Camps run June 18 – August 9.  Ages 6 – 16.

James Finley Volleyball Camp (VCU Volleyball Head Coach) – Registration is OPEN. Camps for boys and girls kindergarten – 12 grades.  July 13 – 22 based on program.

Key Signatures “Rock Star Camp” - Registration is OPEN.  Camps run June 4 – July 20.  Ages 8 and up.

Latin Ballet of VirginiaRegistration is OPEN. Camps July 9 – July 20, July 23 – August 3, and August 6 – August 17, Two Locations: 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Cultural Arts Center at Glen Allen and Richmond Center Stage NEW!

Luther Memorial Summer Programs Registration is OPEN.  Camps run from June 11 – August 10. Ages 3yo – rising 9th grade.

Mad Science Camps - Registration is OPEN. Camps run June 18 – August 31 at 14 area locations; offering a daily combination of in-class discovery and exploration, outdoor games and physical activities and hands-on applications of the scientific principles presented. FUN and educational day camps. Voted one of the BEST in Richmond 5 years in a row!

Mathnasium, The Math Learning Center – Short Pump Registration is OPEN. Camps run from June 1 – September 3.  Pre-K through 12th grade.

Mathnasium, The Math Learning Center – Midlothian

Maymont Summer Discovery Camps No registration deadline (we accept registrations until camp is full) Registration begins Feb. 7 for Maymont members, Feb. 21st for non-members.  Maymont’s wildly popular summer camps offer outdoor adventures, animal encounters, games, crafts and hands-on activities for young nature explorers ages 4 to 14. Plus we have a special volunteer program for teens ages 15 to 18 to help our young campers while gaining great experience in the environmental science field.

Millwood School Summer Programs Registration is OPEN.  Programs run from mid-June until the end of July. 

Minnieland – CampTastic  (area locations Hanover, Wellesley/Short Pump, Skipwith Academy, Pebble Creek, Huguenot and Woodlake) Registration is OPEN.  Programs vary by location.

Music That’s Mine Registration is OPEN.  Camps run July 9 – July 27. Ages 7 – 16.

Pamunkey Ridge Girl Scout Camp Registration is opens February 23 (for members).  Camps run from June 18 – August 10.

Passages Adventure Camp - OPEN and on-going registration until the camps are filled. One Week Sessions from June 4, 2012 through August 24, 2012.

Richmond Fencing Club

Richmond Kickers –  Registration is OPEN.  June 18 – August 24.  Ages 4 – 16.

Richmond Shakespeare

Richmond Strikers – Registration coming soon.  Ages 6 – 13.

Richmond Olympiad (area locations Chesterfield Airport, Hanover, Innsbrook and Trade Road).  Sessions and times may vary by location.

Richmond Volleyball Club - Registration is OPEN.  Dates and times vary by program.  Ages 8 – 19.

Richmond Young Writers - Registration is OPEN.  June 18 – July 27.  Ages 8 – 16.

Riverside Outfitters Camps Registration is OPEN.  Camps run from June 18 – August 31.  Programs for ages 6 – 15.

Romp n’ Roll - Registration begins February 20.

SCOR Summur Camps Registration OPEN.  June 24 – August 31. Ages 3 – 18.

Spirited Art Registration is OPEN.  Sessions available in June, July and August.  Ages 5 – 12 years old.

Swift Creek Academy of the Performing Arts

Theatre IV Stage Explorers Camp Registration is OPEN. Session 1 (June 18 – June 29) Rising 1st – 6th graders.  Session 2 (July 30 – August 10) Rising 6th – 9th graders.

The Greater Richmond School of Music Registration is OPEN. Dates vary by program (Camps include ROCK CAMP, Piano Camp, Chamber Music Workshop, and the St. Cecilia Summer Music Festival.)

The Latin Ballet of Virginia Arts Education Day Camp - Registration is OPEN.  Two week camps July 9 – August 17. 

The Learning Experience – Short Pump

The Little Gym of Glen Allen

Treasure Hunt Camp

Tuckaway (area locations Varina, West, Barony, Innsbrook, Harbor and Ellwood House)  Registration is OPEN.  Camps vary by location.

Virginia Fishing Adventures Camps Registration is OPEN.  Ages 6 – 14.  Check out our article on our experience at Virginia Fishing Adventures for more detailed info.

Virginia Outside Camps -  Registration is OPEN. 

Visual Arts Center Schedule comes out March 5.  Click here for more info on Artventures 2011 at the Visual Arts Center.

West End Academy of Dance 

Young Chef’s Academy

YWCA Passport to Adventure

Tickles & Giggles Children’s Consignment is taking registrations now for consignments. When you consign with them, you get up to 70% of the selling price on all of your items, are invited to shop before the public does, and receive a check within two weeks. Great benefits for no work!

Tickles & Giggles does all of the promotion and advertising for you. It’s that easy and it’s tons of fun with hundreds of shoppers.

The actual sale is Saturday, March 24 from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday March 25 from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. (50% off on Sunday). It’s held at Presidential Business Park, 325 Business Lane, Ashland, VA (near Wal-Mart).

To make the event even more worthwhile, a portion of the proceeds benefit Hanover Safe Place which is a Domestic and Sexual violence shelter and resource center. They offer support and services to victims of domestic and sexual violence.

Register now to become a consignor, and mark your calendar for the big sale event in March. Be sure to use your Savvy Saver discount when you shop too.

Turn something old into something new for your kids.

Tickles & Giggles is an advertiser on Richmondmom.com

Mommy and Me of Greater Richmond - We’re not your average mom’s group!  We are very organized and love to have fun  – with your little ones and without!

Glen Allen Working Moms of Toddlers - This group is tailored for the working moms of Glen Allen with kids under 5 years old, but anyone is welcome to join!

Short Pump/Glen Allen Moms Group - This is a group for stay at home moms in Short Pump and Glen Allen who want to make friends for themselves and their children. The group is geared towards moms with kids ages 0-5.

The Powhatan Playgroup - Our group is made up of wonderful women and children mostly from the Powhatan area.  We share in play dates, mom’s nights out, and other activities. We support both the stay at home mom as well as mothers who work outside of the home.

Midlothian Area Moms Group - We welcome any mother who has the time and desire to attend an active playgroup.  Our membership consists of moms with infants to pre-school age children.  This group is for moms that reside in Midlothian, or neighboring Midlothian zip codes: 23112, 23113, 23114, 23235, 23236, 23832, 23838, or 23120.

MOMS club of Louisa - We are the first support group specifically for at-home mothers and some Work at-home mothers located in the County of Louisa serving the areas of Bumpass, Gordonsville, Louisa, Lake Anna, Mineral and Zion Crossroads. We meet during the day, when moms most need support. Mothers of any age children are welcome.

Ft. Lee Mommy Playgroup - The group is designed for all military moms who are currently stationed at Ft. Lee.  Meet and get to know other military moms who understand the military life.

Mocha Moms of Richmond - Mocha Moms is a support group for mothers of color who have chosen not to work full-time outside of the home in order to devote more time to their families and communities. While many of our members have eliminated employment altogether, others work part-time, flex-time, night shifts, have home-based businesses, consult or freelance from home.

Richmond Moms and Kids - This is a parenting group that is designed for Richmond area moms and kids. Our goal is to get together for playdates in a variety of locations: at parks, indoor play-areas at malls, museums, libraries, the zoo, etc. This group is designed not only for the kids, but for the moms who are probably in need of a little adult interaction once in a while!

MOMS Clubs (Moms Offering Moms Support) - We are a support group designed just for you, the at-home mother of today! You are interested in the world around you, want a variety of activities for you and your children, and are proud of your choice of at-home mothering for your families! We know, because we’re at-home mothers, too!  There are many area locations, listed below:

MOMS Club of Chester - Membership area is Chesterfield (south of 288), Chester, & Colonial Heights.

MOMS club of Midlothian, South - We serve the 23112, 23120, and 23832 (west of Hensley Rd) zip codes.

MOMS club of Mechanicsville, Cool Spring - The MOMS Club® of Mechanicsville, Virginia, Cool Spring Chapter welcomes moms and children living in the Cool Spring Elementary School district to join our group of friendship and support.

MOMS Club of Midlothian, North - We serve all mothers in Midlothian zip codes 23113 and 23114 and Richmond zip codes 23235 and 23236.

MOMS Club of Richmond, Innsbrook - The Richmond-Innsbrook Club covers the Richmond area zip codes that are north of I-64: Glen Allen 23058 & 23060, 23059 Glen Allen, that part west of Rte. 33; Richmond 23228 & 23294; and Henrico County addresses in 23227.

MOMS Club of Richmond, West End - Our chapter is open to residents in the following zip codes: 23103, 23220, 23221, 23225, 23226, 23229, 22030, 23233, 23238.

Richmond Mommies - Richmond mothers of all walks of life gain camaraderie and support through an online forum that is available 24 hours a day and at play dates, mom-only and family events around the area.

Mothers and More, Southside Richmond - We focus on you – as a mother and a woman – in all the different stages of your life. Our community–based chapters and virtual networks help you focus on your identity, make meaningful connections with others, and support you as you face motherhood’s challenges. We welcome all mothers!

Richmond/Hanover Moms and More - Working/career moms or stay-at-home moms in the Glen Allen, Mechanicsville, and surrounding areas who want to interact with other moms, with and without your kids.

Imma/Abba and Me - For mom/ dad and their young ones ages 3 months – 2 years.  Meets on Tuesdays from 9:15 – 11:15 am, for five 6-week sessions.  For more details and for a registration form, please contact the office at 740-200 ext. 3.    

Elementary Explorers of Greater Richmond - Elementary Explorers of Greater Richmond is a group of parents and others interested in enhancing the elementary age school experience of their children.

Dad’s Club of Richmond - The Dads and Kids Club was formed back in ’95 with only a few Stay at Home Dads. It now has a web base of 80 members with 20 active members.  This Dads group is very relaxed, non-committal and there are no dues.

Richmond Separation and Divorce Support Group - This group is open to everyone of all faiths, ages, genders, sexual preferences.  It does not matter what stage of separation or divorce that you find yourself in. This group provides an outlet for people experiencing this journey to talk to each other.

Fresh Start for Single Mothers and Their Children - Fresh Start for Single Mothers and Their Children is a unique faith-based 8+ week program designed to provide an environment of positive support for single mothers and their children in which they will find encouragement, education, inspiration, growth, hope for daily living and the future.

Our Families-Gay, Lesbian, Bisexual and Transgender Parents & Kids Social Group in Richmond- Our Families – for GLBT parents and kids in the Richmond area – Meetings around town the First Sunday of the Month.

Single Parents Around Richmond - Single Parents Around Richmond is for any single Moms and Dads out there looking for activities to do with their kids, with other single parents.

30’s/40’s (plus) Richmond Singles - Meet other 30s/40s singles near you! Come to a Singles Meetup for fun, friendship and maybe more through a wide variety of indoor and outdoor events!

Richmond Asperger’s Syndrome Meetup Group - The goal of this group is to create a place where people diagnosed with Asperger’s Syndrome and their families can connect, network, and bond.

CHADD (Children and Adults with ADHD) – Central Virginia Chapter - The group meets at Bon Air Presbyterian Church, generally on third Tuesdays at 7:30 p.m.  Meetings are an open format where we encourage discussion.  Call 804-385-3139 for more information about meetings and/or questions regarding the local group.

Richmond Area Homebirth Meetup - If you are you interested in learning more about home birth, this group gathers on the second Tuesday of each month to “Meet & Greet”.

Stroller Strides - Stroller Strides helps you get in shape while being with your little one and meeting other moms! Entertain your little one while you focus on your workout. All fitness levels are welcome!

West End/Mechanicsville, contact RachelP@strollerstrides.net

          South Richmond Stroller Strides

See Mommy Run - A free site for Virginia Moms to locate running groups or start their own running or walking group!

Free Women’s Fitness Bootcamp - We promise you have never experienced a workout like this before! Come on out- workouts accommodate women from novice to ex-athletes!

Moms Treehouse - In addition to fitness and enrichment classes, Mom’s Treehouse also offers a playgroup for moms with children ages 0-5 on Fridays fron 10:30-11:30am.  The playgroup provides an opportunity for moms and babies to bond, relax, and play focusing on different weekly themes. Guest speakers, crafts, ice breakers, and more will be scheduled.  Located in the West End at 2292 John Rolfe Pkwy.  (Mom’s Treehouse is a Richmondmom.com advertiser.)

Richmond Ways to Save - Richmond has great deals, you just need to know the little tricks.  If you want to save money, then this is the group for you! I will show you how, when, and where to save money in Richmond. Let’s all make our financial dreams come true, one coupon at a time!

The Heartlink Network of Richmond - The Richmond chapter of the international networking group known as the Heart Link Network. The Heart Link Network has monthly networking events for professional women.

MOPS (Mothers Of Preschoolers) - A place to find friendship, community, resources and support for you as a woman and mother so you’re not alone.  Multiple area groups and meetings, click on the link above for details.

Mothers of Multiples – This group offers support for expectant mothers of multiples and for those mothers who have already delivered their multiples.  Two local chapters:  Southside (SAMOM) and Richmond Area (RAMOM) 

Mommy & Me and Daddies Too at the Shops at Willow Lawn - Join The Shops at Willow Lawn outside on the second Wednesday of each month, April through October from 10 a.m. – 11:30am, as we host a FREE morning out with crafts, games, storytelling, dancing, and educational programs designed to enhance parent’s interaction with their children.

What, you say? You’ve never read the book? You haven’t laughed enough, says the Hall kids, serious consumers of anything comedic.

 They loved this book and found the one-hour show to be the perfect supplement to the ridiculousness that fills the pages of one of their favorite bedtime stories.

From the mixed-up fairy tale scenarios to the narrator who knew just how to tickle our fancy, there were belly laughs heard throughout the packed theater. One of our favorite characters was Foxey Loxey, that sneaky little fellow who for some reason just cracked up my soon-to-be-five-year old. I took my almost-ten-year-old and his friend of the same age along with my daughter (my middle kid is seeing it with a school trip!) and every single one of them smiled throughout the performance, and I’m pretty sure it’s not just a result of the root beer and Skittles they were slurping on.

Based on the book by Jon Scieszka and Lane Smith, adapted by John Glore, it’s a mix-up of fairy tale classics like the Ugly Duckling (they kept him ugly!), Cinderella and Rumpelstiltskin (which my daughter proceeded to call me all afternoon) and other silly-billy, out-of-the-ordinary entertainment.

You can see it through March 18, 2012 and use your Savvy Saver card for discount Theatre IV tickets, and keep your eye out as we often have 1/2 price days (like the one on Saturday) for our readers.

Theatre IV is an advertiser of Richmondmom.com.