A Child Grows In Brooklyn

A Child Grows Event Picks

The Borough Park Library has a fun story/drama hour. You can act out your favorite stories on Thursdays, Jul 3 & 17, 1:30 PM. The Borough Park Library is at 1265 43rd Street, 718.437.4085

La Tourette Park hosts an old-fashioned community celebration on the 4th of July. They will host activities such as pinwheel making, a children's pinwheel parade, Victorian paper fireworks, and an ice cream churning demonstration and tasting. Bring a pie to enter in the pie-baking contest!  718.351.1611  http://www.nycgovparks.org The celebration is from 11am-5pm.  La Tourette Park  441 Clarke Avenue Staten Island, NY 10306
(this listing info is from www.parentsconnect.com- thanks!)

If you want to see the Macy's fireworks- here is the scoop:
Macy's annual 4th of July extravaganza - the nation's largest - is a big crowd pleaser, and that, of course, means crowds! In addition to the Seaport - you can enter the FDR Drive at 23rd, 38th, and 42nd Streets (handicapped access is at 38th) - and arrive early to ensure your place. The lower FDR drive is accessible at Manhattan Civic Center (Brooklyn Bridge/Pearl Street exit ramp). In Queens, check the view along the river from Long Island City. On the Brooklyn side of the East River, Greenpoint is the place to be. Take the E or F train to Queens Plaza and transfer to the G train, getting off at Greenpoint Avenue. Walk east to West Street, turn right at the dead end, and walk three blocks to India Street. Left to the pier. Another option is the Promenade in Brooklyn Heights. Or watch the southern East River show from Empire-Fulton Ferry State Park. Bring a radio tuned to 1010 WINS for musical accompaniment  212.494.4495  http://www.macys.com The FDR open to pedestrians 7pm; Fireboat Water Show 7:15pm; Fireworks @9:25pm (this listing info is from www.parentsconnect.com- thanks!)

However, if the idea of elbowing your way onto the FDR Drive makes you shudder, consider a trip to the southern end of Roosevelt, from whence you can watch the works just as well. Entertainment is included, too - face painting, balloon twisting, juggling, and music. Advance ticketing is strongly recommended and can be purchased online in advance or picked up in person (cash only, if available) at the gate. http://www.rioc.com  Gates open 5pm; Fireworks 9pm The cost is $20  Roosevelt Island  New York, NY 10044 (this listing info is from www.parentsconnect.com- thanks!)

PLG Arts performs a short version of "A Midsummer Night's Dream" at the Imagination Playground for kids of all ages. When a group of construction workers comes to Prospect Park, they stumble upon a battle between the King and Queen of the Fairies. Saturdays at 11 a.m.: July 5, 12, 19
Sundays at 3 p.m.: July 6, 13, 20  At the Imagination Playground. Click here to see the Imagination Playground on our Interactive Map. (this listing info is from www.parentsconnect.com- thanks!)

Saturday, July 5, 1 p.m. is Freedom Celebration.
Slavery ended in New York on July 4, 1827, and for years July 5 was a day to celebrate emancipation with parades and fancy dinners. This year, head over to Lefferts and learn about the history of this event with an illustrated talk by historian Dr. Sherrill D. Wilson and drum music by Heritage O.P. End the afternoon by making musical instruments and decorating your clothing for a noisy and proud march recalling the days of the first generations of free African- Americans in New York.  Lefferts Historic House.

The JellyNYC Pool PARTIES return to McCarren Pool in Williamsburg for a third summer of fun.  Play dodge ball, slip-n-slide, eat food, ice cream, bands, fans, families and kids of all ages and much more.  Free admission. Sunday, Jul 6 from 2:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m and every Sunday until August 24th.  (This listing is from www.gocitykids.com- thanks!)

Fun bluegrass band Astrograss concert is playing at Prospect Park at the Old Stone House on Tuesday, July 8th from 6pm-7:30pm 
http://www.theoldstonehouse.org 5th Avenue and 4th Street JJ Byrne Park
Brooklyn, NY 11215

I have seen the Give and Take Jugglers in the park before and they are pretty hilarious.  They will be at the Van Cortland Park on Wednesday, July 09, 2008 from 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM. The Give & Take Jugglers are a family-oriented vaudeville act that will be at the  Playground for All Childrern at Bruckner Blvd. Middletown Rd.

Open now until October 5th you have a chance to play miniature golf on Governors Island. Each hole has been designed by an artist. It is a nine-hole mini golf course that is free and open to the public. Each hole has been conceived, constructed and installed by a different artist or group of artists, all variations on the theme "City of Dreams." www.figmentnyc.org/minigolf

Have you or your family ever wanted to try kayaking? This weekend is your chance- and you don't even have to leave New York.  On Saturday,July 5th and Sunday, June 6th, Families can join the Downtown Boathouse for 20-minute instructional paddles, and explore the Hudson River by kayak. Participants should wear bathing suits or shorts and a t-shirt, and must know how to swim. Meet at the 71st Street Soccer Field, Riverside Park South. First come, first served and it runs from 10am-5pm. http://www.riversideparkfund.org (This listing is from www.gocitykids.com- thanks!)

Every Sunday until July 20th is Family Fun Day at Belmont Park from 12--4pm. You can find pony rides, petting zoos, face painting, clowns, characters, bounce houses, family shows, and more....http://www.nyra.com.  516.488.6000, ex 3306.  Adults $2; Children (under 12) free; $1 charitable donation for Pony Rides.  Belmont Park  2150 Hempstead Turnpike  Elmont, NY 11003  (This listing is from www.gocitykids.com- thanks!)

 

There are some awesome exhibits at the American Museum of Natural History. There is a Lizard and Snakes exhibit (with 60 live animals),  the "Horses" exhibit which got a fabulous writeup in the New York Times and lastly the Imax film Sea Monsters: A Prehistoric Adventure - In this thrilling large-format film, travel back 82 million years to a time when strange creatures filled the seas that once covered what is now the middle of North America.
P.S. ------The Horse exhibit is definitely an exhibit for older kids as it is fairly static.

This sounds like a must-do event to me. On Wednesday, July 9th is Brooklyn's annual Festa del Giglio stretches over a week and a half and features a parade with a 65-foot tall structure hoisted above the streets of Williamsburg, carnival rides, live music, and Italian cuisine. North 8th and Havemeyer Streets. 718.384.0223 http://www.olmcfeast.com Ongoing Daily 7/9/08 - 7/20/08; check with location for exceptions. Free; bring cash for rides and food.  275 N 8th Street  Brooklyn, NY 11211  (This listing is from www.gocitykids.com- thanks!)

Called the “social event of the season for the ‘under eight’ crowd,” over 200 people attended the Carroll Park Concert Series' first show. And so the series continues next week. Lloyd Miller (of the Deedle Deedle Dees) will perform this Wednesday, July 9th at 4 pm. Visit www.thedeedledeedledess.com for more info.They will have arts and crafts, including face painting and t-shirt decorating, as well as food and drinks, so you might like to  arrive with a bit of pocket money!  All proceeds benefit The Committee to Improve Carroll Park. All concerts are, weather permitting, at: Carroll Park, President Street at Smith Street in Carroll Gardens (Take the F train to the Carroll St. Stop)
www.carrollparkbrooklyn.org/concerts

 

      

The Waterfalls and the Brooklyn Bridge Park at Pier 1

Today I got a great view of two of Olafur Eliasson's waterfalls.  First, as I was coming south on the FDR, I saw the one that was nesteled in under the Brooklyn Bridge, and then, as I was crossing the Manhattan Bridge, the spectacular one that was set off by itself at the Brooklyn Bridge Park. I was so excited I called my Dad right away. He is in Arizona in the desert and could completely appreciate the decadent display of these waterfalls.

If you want a good view you can also visit Pier 1 at the Brooklyn Bridge Park. It sounds like a perfect outing: eating RICE's food at a picnic table under trees, walking through grass, wifi on your laptop, plopping your child into a clean sand play area and watching the watefalls.  This new park area is huge!: 26,000 square feet! It just opened last weekend and will stay open until Labor Day for seven days a week from 10:00am - 10:00pm.

If you want to see the waterfalls from a boat, there are dedicated boat journeys to view the Waterfalls.  Organized by the Public Art Fund in partnership with Circle Line Downtown, boats will leave from Pier 16 in Manhattan and will provide up-close views of the installations. The Circle Line will provide free and discounted trips daily for the public. The free Governors Island Ferry, which will run every Friday, Saturday and Sunday for the length of the project, and the Staten Island Ferry will also provide views of the waterfalls at Governors Island and between Piers 4 and 5 in the future Brooklyn Bridge Park.

Pier 1 is located on the East River at the base of Old Fulton Street and Furman Street and is accessible by subway via the A/C at High Street, the 2/3 at Clark Street, and the 4/5 at Borough Hall.  A free shuttle bus service will run with stops at Borough Hall and High Street at Cadman Plaza West. Shuttle service will operate Fridays 5pm-10:30pm, and Saturdays and Sundays 12pm-10:30pm.

How to Clean Toys, Backpacks and Silks

Real Simple Magazine had 2 recent articles on how to clean everything from cotton to backpacks. I found them incredibly helpful. Here are both articles melded together.

Both written by Sarah Stebbins

How to Wash Cotton

Made from the fluffy fibers of the cotton plant, most cotton fabrics are preshrunk, so “you really can’t mess them up,” says Chris Allsbrooks, a textile analyst at the Drycleaning & Laundry Institute, in Laurel, Maryland.
How to Wash: Machine-wash in cold or warm with all-purpose detergent.
Tip: Sun yellows it; line-dry in shade.

How to Wash Cotton

Made from the fluffy fibers of the cotton plant, most cotton fabrics are preshrunk, so “you really can’t mess them up,” says Chris Allsbrooks, a textile analyst at the Drycleaning & Laundry Institute, in Laurel, Maryland.
How to Wash: Machine-wash in cold or warm with all-purpose detergent.
Tip: Sun yellows it; line-dry in shade.

How to Wash Wool

Woven from the undercoats of sheep, goats, and other hairy mammals, wool is ultra-durable. But it shrinks in warm water, so take precautions.
How to Wash: Dry-clean or hand wash in cold with mild detergent. Air-dry.
Tip: Use cedar hangers to repel moths.

How to Wash Silk

Made from protein fibers produced by silkworms, this durable, luxurious fabric is treated with sizing and may have dyes that bleed.
How to Wash: Dry-clean or hand wash in cold with mild detergent. Air-dry.
Tip: Test for colorfastness.

How to Wash Rayon

Created from wood pulp treated with chemicals, cool and comfortable rayon is considered a semisynthetic fabric. When laundered, it may bleed, shrink, or lose its crispness.
How to Wash: Dry-clean or hand wash in cold with mild detergent. Air-dry.
Tip: Iron it when slightly damp.

How to Wash Linen

Linen, woven from fibers of the flax plant, is sometimes treated with sizing, a finish that makes it crisp. It wrinkles very easily and requires ironing.
How to Wash: Dry-clean or hand wash in cold with mild detergent. Air-dry.
Tip: Or machine-wash on gentle.

Backpacks
Wash alone in a front-loader on gentle in cold water with all-purpose detergent. Don’t wash multicolored packs; the dyes may bleed.

Cloth Purses and Tote Bags
“People put them on car and restaurant floors — they’re some of the dirtiest things we own,” says Sandra Phillips, a cleaning consultant and the author of A Clean Break (Live-Right Books, $10, www.amazon.com). Wash on delicate in warm water with all-purpose detergent. Air-dry. Don’t wash purses with sequins or other embellishments.

Laptop and iPod Cases
Wash canvas, nylon, and microfiber cases in warm water with all-purpose detergent. Air-dry. Don’t wash padded ones — they contain a foam layer that holds water and doesn’t dry well.

Ironing-Board Cover
Wash in warm water with all-purpose detergent. Air-dry.

Sleeping Bags
Wash in a front-loader — the agitator in a top-loader may rip seams — on gentle in warm water with mild detergent. (Harsher detergents can ruin the feathers in down bags.) Dry on low or no heat.

Car-Seat and High-Chair Covers
Use warm water and 1 1/2 capfuls of all-purpose detergent to get rid of the ground-in soils on cloth covers. Dry on low for 5 to 10 minutes, then air-dry.

Footwear
Wash canvas or leather sneakers (even those kids’ shoes with plastic parts) in cold water with all-purpose detergent. Place them in mesh bags to keep laces from wrapping around the agitator. Dry on low for 10 minutes, then air-dry for a day. Wash slippers with rubber soles if the care label allows it.

Oven Mitts and Sponges
Wash in hot water and all-purpose detergent. Air-dry.

Cloth Diapers
Use hot water, bleach, and mild detergent, and dry on high to help kill germs.

Travel Pillows
Rather than washing the pillows themselves (their padding tends to get mildewy), slip them inside pillowcases for use, then just wash the pillowcases instead.

Bath Toys
Rubber duckies sometimes need a bath, too. Use warm water and all-purpose detergent. “Throw toys in the wash with a hand towel, which will get the slime off,” says cleaning consultant Sandra Phillips.

Plastic Pool Floats
“If it can be deflated and it fits in the machine, it can be washed,” says Phillips. Use cold water, all-purpose detergent, and a hand towel (as with bath toys) to remove slime. Air-dry.

Pet Accessories
Wash pet-bed covers, collars, and leashes on gentle in cold water with all-purpose detergent in small loads but on a large-load setting to flush out dirt and hair. Tumble dry on low.

Plastic Dish Gloves
Wash on a gentle, short cycle (about four minutes) in warm water. Air-dry.

Sports Gear
Wash basketball nets and shin guards on gentle in warm water. Air-dry.

Mop Heads
Use all-purpose detergent and warm water. Air-dry.

Toys
Wash cloth toys on gentle in cold water with mild detergent; dry on low for 5 minutes, then air-dry.

Getting Your Child to Brush Her Teeth

Are you tearing your hair out trying to get your child to brush his/her teeth? (me too!). Here are some suggestions that you may find helpful for ages 6 months to 7 years. I compiled these from various sources in the internet.

• I sing the toothbrushing song, ''I brush, brush, brush my teeth Brush them left to right I brush them up and down To keep them clean and white''

• An electric toothbrush worked magic for us as did bringing a favorite stuffed or plastic animal along to 'model' brushing. Using words like 'say ahh' and 'eee' helps them position open their mouth rather than clamp it shut.

• I had the same teeth brushing issues with my toddler.  What ended up working best for us was when I asked her to say "ahhhhh!" when opening her mouth big so I could brush her molars, and "teeeeee!" for teeth so that I could brush the front of her teeth.  This seemed to work a lot better than holding heron my lap while she cried (even though this allowed me to get to her molars it wasn't pleasant for either of us!). I guess making lots of sounds made it more fun for her because she was interracting with me while I made the same sounds.

• Brushing teeth is fun!  Sit on the floor with him in front of you, facing in the same direction.  Then have him lie back on the floor with his head in your lap.  Then he has to roar like a lion, or a crocodile, or a dinosaur, or . . . .  Sometimes you have to guess who is roaring.  (Roaring requires the mouth to be wide open while you brush furiously.)  Sometimes you're very scared that a bear is going to roar at you and you're ALWAYS scared when it happens!

• We told her that she would get a turn ''all by myself'' and that one of us would also get a turn, ensuring that some actual teeth-brushing would happen.  We then asked her whether she would like her turn first or last.  If she chooses to go first, we have her set a digital timer (she ''believes'' thetimer if she sets it!) for some amount of time, like 2 minutes, otherwise she would sit there and suck water off the toothbrush all night. So when my daughter would refuse, I would suggest that we brush each others teeth. This worked quite well -- she would sort of brush my teeeth and then I would brush her teeth. When I brushed her teeth I would try not to hold her too tight or in a awkward position -- I had hated that too!

• I want to share a technique that has worked wonders with brushing and flossing my son's teeth.  We came up with it when he was 2-1/2 or 3 years old.  My sister tried it with great success with her daughter as well.  It can be adjusted depending on what your child is really interested in.  For instance, at the time we started doing the Magic Dentist my son was really into Super Heroes (and loved to pretend he was a Super Hero), so I geared it accordingly.  First I would start to create some interest, and say something about an amazing Magic Dentist that I had heard about.  I would start to build it up gradually, saying that the Magic Dentist would only work on Super Heroes, and the Magic Dentist only showed up at certain times, you never knew when, etc.  Later, I would suddenly say something like "I think the Magic Dentist is coming!",and then I would go sit on the bed, cross-legged, and announce "I am the MAGIC DENTIST, and I ONLY work on Super Heroes! Are there any Super Heroes around here?"  I might also say something like "Oh well, I guess there aren't any Super Heroes around here today.  Too bad."  Invariably, my son would take the bait, leaping around with excitement and saying he was Batman, or Superman, or whoever, anxious to have his teeth looked at by the Magic Dentist.  My sister, whose daughter is into pink ponies, would be a Magic Dentist who ONLY worked on pink ponies, and it worked like a charm every time. Then I (the Magic Dentist) would have him lay down with his head on my lap (I would tell him that I didn't believe he was a real Super Hero, and the only way I could tell if he really was one would be to look at his teeth), He would then open his mouth to show me that he was, indeed a Super Hero! I would act totally astonished, and, continuing to talk about what an amazing and powerful Super Hero he is, and what amazing strong teeth he has, I would floss and brush his teeth with no problem whatsoever. I couldn't believe how well it worked, and my sister had the same results.  My son is 6 now, and flossing and brushing is a breeze.  We sometimes do the Magic Dentist just for fun, though now he is usually a Power Ranger instead of Batman.  He has come to actually enjoy having his teeth flossed, and reminds me about it if I forget.
• 
  
• This is an area where parents can really benefit from following their child's lead. Examine the child's interests and create a game stemming from it. The idea isn't to instill a duty to brushing, but rather to make brushing teeth an enjoyable experience until it becomes a habit.
• Make it a game. Let them get a certain bedtime story or song (or maybe get TWO stories) if they can brush all their teeth. Get them to count each tooth as they brush it.

Additions to A Child Grows Events

The friends of Douglass/Greene Park are having a Sunset Swim!! Fun, fun! From 5:00 PM to 7 PM on Saturday, June 28th, 2008, you can swim at The Pool at Thomas Greene Park, see juggling, mime, magic, and more from 5:15 PM- 6:00 PM (weather permitting) Use pool entrance on Douglass St., Thos. Greene Park is located between Third Ave. & Nevins St., Douglass & DeGraw.
Please note: this is a city park and is subject to the following rules. Patrons must provide their own padlock. No responsibility is assumed for lost articles. A standard master or combination lock is recommended. Small luggage locks are not permitted. Bathing suits must be worn on the deck and in the water. Men’s bathing suits must have mesh linings. Hats may be worn on the deck for sun protection but are not allowed in the water. Plain white T-shirts may be worn over bathing suits if desired. Sneakers are not permitted. Rubber flip flops or water shoes are permitted. Beach chairs, baby strollers, bags, blankets, or beach balls are not permitted on the pool deck. We will make our best effort to secure strollers.

Different Kinds of Formula and What is the Best?

When you give birth in a hospital, the nurses send you home with oodles of formula...and even more coupons for formula for the future.  Even if you plan on ONLY nursing, you might find that the formula comes in handy if your milk production lowers or it is an emergency. I was tempted to give the formula and the coupons away, but found they came in handy just for those reasons. Formula is really expensive and it is worth knowing what is the right kind for your child.

There are over 20 different kinds of formula out there. Parenting Magazine's contributing editor, Claire McCarthy, MD, did a good job of explaining the differences in the types of formula- so I thought I would summarize her findings here.

Do check out my post about formula containers and the serious concern over them. It has been noted that the lining of the cans contain bispehnol A. 

Soy- this is made from soy protein instead of cow's milk-based protein.  It is meant for babies with cow's milk allergies or lactose intolerance and kids' raised as strict vegetarians.  Most kid's with cow's milk allergies are allergic to soy as well.  True lactose intolerance is almost nonexistent this early. Most doctors now skip soy for hydrolysate.

Hydrolysate- this is made from cow's milk proteins that are broken down to make the formula easier to digest.  This is meant for children with food alleries or lactose intolerance.  This formula is very expensive and costs almost twice as much as regular formula.  There are only 2 percent of babies with milk allergies and with digestive problems- so make sure your child really is before switching to either soy or hydrolysate.

Organic- free of pesticides, growth hormones and antibiotics. 

Rice Starch- rich starch is added to thicken the formula.  It is made for babies with severe spitup who need help with keep formula down to get enough calories.  This is meant for very few babies- alternatives to rice starch formula would be: using more formula to less water or antacids. 

Preterm- this contains more more of the nutrients premies need.

Toddler- this formula has more calcium and other nutrients.  This is meant for picky eaters who are 9 to 24 months old who aren't getting enough nutrients from food.  Very few kids should actually use this.  Picky eaters may just get worse if they're not encouraged to keep trying solids.  Pediasure might be a better option if your child is over 1 year old. Pediasure has more nutrients than toddler formula.

Probiotic- this formula has helpful bacteria to strengthen the gut and immune system.  It is meant for babies who are suffering from diarrhea. 

A Child Grows Event Picks

Have you or your family ever wanted to try kayaking? This weekend is your chance- and you don't even have to leave New York.  On Saturday, June 28th and Sunday, June 29th, Families can join the Downtown Boathouse for 20-minute instructional paddles, and explore the Hudson River by kayak. Participants should wear bathing suits or shorts and a t-shirt, and must know how to swim. Meet at the 71st Street Soccer Field, Riverside Park South. First come, first served and it runs from 10am-5pm. http://www.riversideparkfund.org (This listing is from www.gocitykids.com- thanks!)

Saturday, June 28th is an awesome book festival in Central Park. You can browse books, listen to music and author readings, and check out numerous food vendors. The fest is set up in front of the Naumburg Bandshell, located near the Bethesda Fountain at the Eastern end of the park. http://newyork...       .brinkster.net Time: 10am-6pm. It is free of course, except the books that you load up on! Central Park 14 E 60th Street  New York, NY 10022 (This listing is from www.gocitykids.com- thanks!)

Southpaw is having an Expo called "The Unlimited Enthusiasm 2008" on Saturday, June 28th, It is an all-ages show that features Harry and the Potters, Math the Band, and Uncle Monsterface. Purchase tickets in advance or take a chance at the door.
718.230.0236 http://www.spsounds.com  Time: 2pm; Doors open 1pm Cost: $15  Southpaw  125 Fifth Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11215. (This listing is from www.gocitykids.com- thanks!)

Partnering with the Center for Architecture Foundation and Lefferts Historic House , Open House New York Kids! presents free workshops in Prospect Park taught by built environment educator, Jane Cowan. These interactive workshops offer hands-on art activities focused on one of three elements: shape, color or texture. Open to kids ages 4-5.  On Saturday, June 28, 2008, the workshops are: Shapes: 10:00 - 11:00 am
Textures: 11:00 - 12:00pm
Lefferts Historic House, Prospect Park,
95 Prospect Park West, Brooklyn, NY 11215
Flatbush Avenue at Empire Boulevard/Ocean Avenue
For more information, please email education@ohny.org or call 212.991.6470 . Registration is requested but drop-ins are welcome!

Saturday, June 28th, Audra Rox will be at McCarren Park in Williamsburg.  The concert will be at the Park House at 11:30 am and it is free!  The Park House at McCarren Park is located near the corner of Lorimer and Bedford Sts. This is Park Moms' annual spring series for kids. Nassau Ave, Bayard, Leonard & N. 12 Street , Brooklyn, NY 11222 (This listing is from www.gocitykids.com- thanks!)

This Sunday, June 29th and every Sunday until July 20th is Family Fun Day at Belmont Park from 12--4pm. You can find pony rides, petting zoos, face painting, clowns, characters, bounce houses, family shows, and more....http://www.nyra.com.  516.488.6000, ex 3306.  Adults $2; Children (under 12) free; $1 charitable donation for Pony Rides.  Belmont Park  2150 Hempstead Turnpike  Elmont, NY 11003  (This listing is from www.gocitykids.com- thanks!)

This is an unusual "Event Pick" for me to choose, but I thought it was interesting. PBS and NOVA contacted me as they are searching for a couple to be subjects of a new NOVA program. Normally I wouldn't post something like this, but I thought it could benefit a couple out there. Here is what PBS/NOVA are looking for..... "PBS is making a documentary about relationships, and we're looking for a couple who want to go into couples therapy – free therapy will be provided by a renowned Columbia University professor and licensed clinical psychologist with more than 25 years experience (sessions valued at $350/hour, and up to 20 sessions on offer). If you're interested in participating, please email us at relationshipsfilm@gmail.com and put "mommypoppins - marriage therapy" in the subject line. We are very respectful filmmakers working for the series NOVA; we will not influence the direction of your therapy, or interfere with the natural course of the therapy in any way. Our aim is to demystify therapy, and explore the ways that people can work to make things better.”  This series is being co-produced by the PBS science series NOVA (based at WGBH in Boston), Vulcan Productions (founded by Paul Allen in Seattle), and Kunhardt Productions (located in New York City).  For over 30 years, NOVA has produced award-winning science programming, earning many journalism and documentary film awards including The Peabody, Emmys and DuPont-Columbia awards.  Vulcan has co-produced a number of PBS specials including Rx for Survival, Evolution, The Blues, and No Direction Home: Bob Dylan.  Over the past 20 years, Kunhardt has made documentaries on history, current affairs and science."

 
Are you craving a summer carnival without the incovenience of travel? All summer long (May 24- Sept.7) there are rides, entertainment and the typical carney games at Wollman Rink. Papa Tree hates this kind of thing, but I love it. If you are like me, this might interest you.  (This listing is from www.gocitykids.com- thanks!) A mini-amusement park is up and running in Central Park's Wollman Rink. A wide assortment of rides, games, and food for the whole family includes a Family Swinger, Samba Balloon, Aeromax, Convoy, Kite Flyer, Mini Tea Cup, and Mini Mouse Coaster. Children under 36 inches tall are admitted free with paid adult ticket. 212.982.2229; http://www.victoriangardensnyc.com  Ages: 2 to 12  Time: Mon-Thu 11am-7pm; Fri 11am-8pm; Sat 10am-9pm; Sun 10am-8pm  Cost: Mon-Fri $6.50; Sat-Sun $7.50 (admission only; rides additional); under 36", free with adult

Bright Ideas' is holding 4th of July workshops on Monday June 30 @ 2:00pm and Wednesday  July 2nd @ 2:00. They will be making banners, flags and other decorations on the 4th of July theme. Children will learn to re-use, recycle and have fun with common items. The classes last approximately 1 hour and are for ages 4-12.  The cost is $9.00/$15 for 2 children. For more information and reservations call 718 701 2634

The Borough Park Library has a fun story/drama hour. You can act out your favorite stories on Thursdays, Jul 3 & 17, 1:30 PM. The Borough Park Library is at 1265 43rd Street, 718.437.4085

Shower Curtains Can Cause Health Problems

I know I am not the only one who has wondered about vinyl shower curtains. Their smell just screams "TOXIC!".  Well, I guess instincts are right sometimes.  Results from a two-phase study released today by the Center for Health, Environment & Justice ( a non-profit organization dedicated to preventing environmental health harms caused by chemical threats) , show that shower curtains made with polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic contain many harmful chemicals including volatile organic compounds (VOCs), phthalates and organotins. Vinyl shower curtains and shower curtain liners release chemicals into the home that are most easily identified by that “new shower curtain smell”. Results of this study show that PVC shower curtains can release toxic chemicals into the air that may lead to adverse health effects including respiratory irritation, central nervous system, liver and kidney damage, nausea, headaches and loss of coordination. The Work Group for Safe Markets is a co-sponsor of this report.

TO read the full report go to www.chej.org/showercurtainreport.

Here are the Key Report Findings
•108 different volatile organic compounds were released from the shower curtain into the air over twenty-eight days.
•After one week, 40 different VOCs were detected in the air; after two weeks, 16 VOCS; after three weeks 11 VOCs and; after four weeks, 4 VOCs.
•The level of Total VOCs measured was over 16 times greater than the recommended guidelines for indoor air quality established by the U.S. Green Building Council, violating these guidelines for seven days.
•Just one new PVC shower curtain will release Total VOCs that exceed the typical Total VOCs residential level for four days.•
The concentration of Total VOCs in the Wal-Mart tested shower curtain
analytical equipment was saturated and further testing had to be halted
would not be damaged.
•All five curtains tested in phase one contained phthalates DEHP and
in children’s toys in California, Washington, and the European Union.
•This testing did not replicate temperature and humidity conditions typically
which would likely increase the concentrations of volatile pollutants
curtain into the air of a bathroom; concentrations of these chemicals
greater during and after a shower than those reported in this study

What alternatives do you have?
I found this site: www.homegreenhome.com that lists many vendors- including those that sell organic shower curtains.

Birch's Birthday

Yesterday Birch turned 2 years old. It was done with very little fanfare- Daddy out of town and Mommy very tired and pregnant. But when I told him it was his birthday he said, "cake, candles!" and then "no want to go to birthday party". Well, whew, great! I wasn't having a birthday party, but oops, I hadn't made a cake as he has never liked it. 

We went out to brunch with another mom and her children. I gave Birch 3 books on having a new baby in the family and he loved them. (He was most taken with the Dr. Sears book called, "What Baby Needs" and I liked it the best too).  Later in the day, we opened some presents from my relatives, one of which was these labels that he has had before but which are really a mommy present for they save me time.  The say, "Happy Birthday from your friend Birch". I just stick them on a present-  no more expensive birthday cards or lost cards for that matter.  Lastly, he got a (toy) phone, fax and answering machine that was a hit.  He can record his voice and draw on a doodle-type pad. It kept him busy this afternoon. He was thrilled! I thought you all might like to see the books that we read, the labels and the toy machine. It might give you some gift ideas.

P.S.- if you are expecting a new baby in the family- I would definitely get "What Baby Needs"- it is rated for ages 4-8 years. Interestingly, Birch read it three times today and loved it though it is way past his reading level, and the 4 year old we read it with wanted me to read it twice and was fully attentive.  The other two books (My New Baby and We Have a Baby) are for younger children and are picture books. Birch prefers "We Have a Baby". The illustrations are nice and show a multicultural family. It is for ages 2-5.  I like the words too- just simple and lovely: "We have a baby to love, to hold, etc"  "My New Baby" does not have words so you need to narrate it yourself, but it shows both parents sharing responsiblities for the children. It is a sturdy board book and can be read over and over.

Want to know about other family friendly neighborhoods?

My friend and fellow blogger, Mommy Poppins, has compiled a neighborhood guide based on writings from bloggers from Brooklyn and Manhattan. (I did one on Fort Greene).  Basically, it is a compilation of bloggers thoughts on living in their neighborhood with family. It is a great guide for anyone thinking of moving, or just taking a day's excursion or just want fun, vicarious reading, I highly recommend it. Here is how Mommy Poppins explains the Neighborhood Guide: This New York City Neighborhood Guide for Families brings together the many talented neighborhood and parent bloggers of NYC to share their insider view of living and playing in New York with kids. Whether you are looking to move to a new hood, or just looking to explore the different areas of the city, this Neighborhood Guide will give you a taste of the best of the neighborhoods of New York for families.

Check it out here:

A Child Grows Event Picks Addition

Did you know that Brooklyn got a Babeland store? No more traveling to the city for your sexy needs! Babeland Co-Founder and Park Slope mom, Claire Cavanah put a new store in next to maternity store Bump. I happened by the new Babeland on their opening night and there was a lot of traffic with couples hanging out on the sidewalk, girls gathered and smokers slinking around drinking cocktails. It felt like a fun party- just not in a club.  So, now Babeland is having a series of talks just for those moms who want to put zing back in their sex lives. On Tuesday, June 24 from 7-8:30 pm discuss issues relating to desire, body image, making time for sex, and what it means to be a sex-positive family. This month’s event features Esther Blum, a Registered Dietitian and Holistic Nutritionist practicing in New York City. Esther authored Eat, Drink and Be Gorgeous: A Nutritionist's Guide to Living Well While Living It Up (Chronicle Books, 2007) and will be sharing information on which foods and nutrients can help boost your sex drive and balance your hormones. Refreshments served.  462 Bergen Street, between Flatbush and 5th Avenue

Nanny Survey, Pay and Responsibilities

Park Slope Parents, (PSP), a great resource for parents in Brooklyn, did a "Nanny Compensation Survey" of over 1100 parents. I read the entire thing (and it isn't short),  but it really dissected a lot of questions and issues people ask or have when hiring a part-time or full-time nanny. I am sure other parents and nannies will find it really insightful- you can use it to gauge where you are in terms of pay, responsibilities, vacation pay and more. For instance.........

Ever wonder what the average pay is per hour for a full-time or part-time nanny for either 1 or 2 children?

PSP found that the average compensation for :

• 1 child was $12-13 an hour for a full-time nanny and $13-14 an hour for a part-time nanny.


• For 2 children the standard pay is $13.50-15 an hour for a full-time nanny and $15 an hour for a part-time nanny.

(Full-time nanny is defined by more than 37.5 hours a week).

Here were some other points from their survey:

• 68% of full-time employers pay overtime, which is most commonly paid at $15/hr.

• 83% pay their Nanny if the family is on vacation

• 88% give their Nanny a year-end bonus, ranging from 1 day to 2 weeks’ pay.

• 9 in 10 give their Nannies Christmas, Thanksgiving, New Year’s Day and 4th of July as paid vacation days.

• 17% of parents have had a Nanny sleep-over for a night, with the ranging between $50-$100 (mode = $100).

• Half or respondents have given a raise to their Nannies, typically $1/hr.

For the entire survey and results visit their site here.

A Child Grows Event Picks

I have always wanted to go to the Mermaid Parade. Always, and I won't make it this year again. I hope someone else goes and tells me what I am missing! Here is the info: An annual - nearly hallucinatory - experience, this annual jaunt must be seen to be believed. The parade, now in its 25th year, can be viewed on Surf Avenue between West 10th Street and West 15th Street or else on the Riegelmann Boardwalk between the same cross streets. Families who wish to march can register online in advance or sign up at the parade booth at 10am. Drizzle or shine. Time: 12n Cost: Free; Participant Adults $10; Children $5  http://www.coneyisland.com June 21st, Saturday. (thanks Gocitykids.com for the listing information!)

There is a Babywearing Workshop with Megan Davidson on Friday, June 20th at 1 pm for $10. For more about Megan and her workshops, check out my review here. Here is a photo of Birch and me trying out one of Megan's slings (me- pregnant and Birch- 34 pounds and it still works!) To register please  click here to e-mail Megan

AND, Megan Davidson is doing a Cloth Diapering Workshop on Friday, June 20th at 2:15pm for $10. For more about Megan and her workshops, check out my review here. To register please  click here to e-mail Megan (Here is a photo of Megan with her little one in a pouch).

The Red Hook Yoga Workshop is hosting a Summer Solstice Party for young kids and their parents. Parents get to Yoga while kids have storytelling outside, snacks and then everyone sings mantras. Sounds OMwonderful! Check their website for details. Register by calling 718 596 1634. The event takes place on Saturday, June 21st from 2-4 pm.
The Red Hook Yoga Workshop   186 Richards St. (btwn Wolcott & Dikeman)   Brooklyn, NY 11231

The Carroll Park Concert Series is up and running for the summer and AudraRox is launching it on Saturday, June 21st. It is a free concert (though suggested donations of $5 per family would be great!). Come to Carroll Park, President Street at Smith Street in Carroll Gardens (Take the F train to the Carroll St. Stop) at 4 pm for the concert.

The Newkirk Avenue Block Party is happening this Saturday June 21st from 11AM-6PM. There will be live music and DJ€™s all day while you play traditional NYC Street Games like Handball, Skully, Hopscotch, Double Dutch, Jacks, and more. Of course there will be food and also some cool Environmental Info and Activities:Solar Power, Composting, Green Roof/Garden Design, Cell Phone Recycling, etc., plus Recycling Games and Art Projects just for kids! All of this will take place on Newkirk Avenue between East 16th and East 17th Streets

On Saturday, June 21st from 1-4pm Pearl Street will be closed.  Construction? No, it is closed off so kids can learn how to ride a bike. There will be lots of fun activities and giveaways including: Free bike tune-ups, Free helmets, A raffle to win a LikeABike at ModernTots showroom and Alex's Lemonade Stand-raising money for children'€™s Leukemia

Baby Maven is presenting a talk on How To Child Proof Your Relationship on Sunday evening June 22nd from 5:30-8:30 5th Ave @28TH ST. New York City $50pp or $75/ couple.  "By taking this workshop you will learn the six secrets of successful couples.This workshop will teach you the essential skills to keep the magic alive in your marriage including: How to regulate conflict, Make intimacy a priority, Learn the 4 signs of Relationship Meltdown, Restore balance in your relationship, Reduce the likelihood of divorce." Click here for registration information

 

I love the title of this event: A Stink Fest!  Wafting up Smith Street, emanating from the wine shop, Smith and Vine, Stinky Brooklyn's Second Annual Cheese Eating Contest includes a lineup of Brooklyn bands, Gustafer Yellowgold (at 11am), and The Dirty Sock Funtime Band (at 12n). And 30 cheese-eating competitors participate in a series of two heats, starting at 3pm.  718.522.7425.    268 Smith Street
  Brooklyn, NY 11231.  718-243-2864 http://www.smithandvine.com Sunday June 22nd.Time: 11am-5pm  Cost: Free (thanks Gocitykids.com for the listing information!)

This Rock Camp sounds intriguing. Since Papa Tree is a musician, I am always keen on musical opportunities for children. This came in, and thought it warranted a mention. The Gowanus Music Club is having a 3 day intensive rock camp in Prospect Heights.  The camp is a way to introduce kids to the Gowanus Music Club- a music program for kids ages 8-16 years.  The camp runs from July 22-24th and will take place at Complete Music Studios (www.completemusic.com) in Prospect Heights. The session will culminate with a performance at the First Unitarian Church (www.fuub.org) in Brooklyn Heights, on the evening of July 24 at 7:00 pm.

Updates on the Blog

I have some new recommended resources and wanted to share them with you. Some for which I have included reviews that might provide some help in narrowing down your choices. I have updated the following resources:

OB/GYNS

Midwives

Homeopaths/Naturopaths

Doulas (both postpartum and labor)

Haircuts (including some for parents)

Yoga and Pilates Classes (for adults and children)

Visual Art Classes

Indoor/Rainy Day Activities

Leg Cramps and Pregnancy

I was at a birthday party yesterday when someone asked me how I felt in my last month of pregnancy. I moaned about my leg cramps. Well, sure enough another 3 women in the room had the same problem (1 women was pregnant, 2 women were in their 60's) and all offered solutions. One was to drink quinine (found in tonic water), the other to put my feet up and the third to hydrate myself with water. I didn't think pregnant women could drink quinine so I opted for the water solution. (Putting my feet up was not an option yesterday).  I drank 7 glasses of water starting at 7:30 pm last night. Voila! No leg cramps last night or today! So I am trying it again tonight.

P.S. (my sister-in-law, who is a midwife, gave me magnesium for my leg cramps a few months ago, and it seemed to work with the added bonus of deep sleep)

However, I wanted to know three things:

1. Can a pregnant woman drink quinine?
2. What other solutions have been offered out there that work?
3. Have any of you found good solutions for YOUR leg cramps?

Answer to question 1.
A few small studies suggest that quinine is effective in decreasing the frequency of nocturnal leg cramps but not their severity or duration. In general, quinine in any form should be avoided by pregnant women and people with hepatic failure. Quinine consumed for the treatment of leg cramps should be prescribed and monitored by physicians, and people who consume quinine in commercial beverages must be warned of the health risks.
Answers to question 2.
Muscle fatigue isn't the only reason you may be suffering from leg cramps. Too much phosphorus (found in processed meat, snack foods, and soda) and too little calcium and potassium circulating in your blood can also cause muscle spasms. And a third reason is that as your uterus expands, it can put pressure on the nerves leading from your trunk to your legs. Eat a banana or drink a glass of milk before bed for a quick calcium and potassium boost.

Avoid standing or sitting with your legs crossed for long periods of time. Rotate your ankles and wiggle your toes when you sit, eat dinner, or watch TV. Stretch your calf muscles (see How to get rid of leg cramps, below) several times before you go to bed.

Drink plenty of fluids. Avoid getting dehydrated. Be sure to drink plenty of water during the day.

Massage your legs and apply heat. When you have a leg cramp, relax the muscle through gentle massage, or heat the muscle with a warm towel or hot water bottle. A warm bath before bedtime may also help to relax your muscles and prevent leg cramps. Avoid standing or sitting in one position for long periods of time. Stretch. Stretching your legs (especially your calves) before going to bed can help reduce your chances of getting leg cramps. Exercise. Regular exercise, such as a daily walk, can help prevent leg cramps

Answers to question 3.

Please leave any suggestions or tips you have in the "comments" section at the bottom of this post. Thanks!

Happy Father's Day

Papa Tree received this wonderful gift from my mom the other day.  It is a stack of cards with quotes on it. There is one for Dads, Babies, Moms.  Split Milk and Cookies makes them. I loved some of the quotes and thought they would be appropriate to lay down for the fathers out there:

Not every successful man is a good father, but every good father is a succesfful man.- R. Duvall

Sometimes the poorest man leaves his children the richest inheritence.- Ruth E. Renkel

When I was a boy of 14, my father was so ignorant I could hardly stand to have the old man around.  But when I got to be 21, I was astonished at how much the old man had learned in seven years. -Mark Twain

He didn't tell me how to live; he lived, and let me watch him do it.- Clarence Budington Kelland

My father always told me, "Find a job you love and you'll never have to work a day in your life."-Jim Fox

The most important thing a father can do for his children is to love their mother.-Theodore Hesburgh