Thursday, December 17, 2009

Tip of the Week: A Gift for Grandparents

I bet your family can hardly wait to get their hands on their new grandchildren this holiday season! Sadly, sometimes making holiday visits just isn't possible. Perhaps it is your in-laws turn to spend the holidays with your family or maybe it is just too far to travel with a new baby.
If you're unable to visit this year, try bridging the distance with an e-mail advent calendar. Count down the days before holidays by e-mailing grandparents, or other family and friends, a picture-a-day of your child celebrating the holidays in all of their holiday finest. It will surely be their favorite gift!

Thursday, December 10, 2009

Tip of the Week: Cool Gifts for New Moms

Check out The Retro Baby, a chic online store perfect for Rock 'n' Roll dads or vintage-loving moms. From cool baby tees to dresses and rompers your child will definitely turn heads with these hip retro outfits! My personal favorites are the darling line of Dr. Seuss inspired rompers. These cute outfits could be a great holiday gift, or would be perfect for a baby shower or child's birthday too!

Tuesday, December 1, 2009

Tip of the Week: Stroller Recall

As you may have heard in the news lately, Maclaren USA is recalling several models of their popular strollers. The strollers have been deemed potentially dangerous because the strollers' hinge mechanism poses a fingertip amputation hazard to the child when the consumer is unfolding or opening the stroller. The company has received 15 reports of children placing their finger in the stroller's hinge mechanism, resulting in 12 reports of fingertip amputations.

The recall involves all Maclaren single and double umbrella strollers. The models include Volo, Triumph, Quest Sport, Quest Mod, Techno XT, TechnoXLR, Twin Triumph, Twin Techno and Easy Traveller. The strollers were sold at Babies `R' Us, Target and other retailers nationwide from 1999 through November 2009.

Families in possession of any of the recalled strollers should contact Maclaren USA to receive a free repair kit. Call 877-688-2326 or visit www.maclaren.us/recall.

Thursday, November 12, 2009

Tip of the Week: A Great Find!

It can't possibly be time to start holiday shopping. I feel like we just finished summer, and already the stores are bombarding us with holiday fare!
In this year's slow economy, you may be able to pick up some nice gifts for your family at more reasonable prices and in unlikely places.

At CVS this week, I found a playhouse tent and tunnel for $19.99. I remember spending close to $100 for the set we gave our daughter. Lucky
for us, at age 7 she still plays with it. And for $19.99, who can resist a gift that's guaranteed to make your child happy?

Friday, October 30, 2009

Tip of the Week: When "No" Means "No"

I saw this article about saying "no" to our children on The Parent Report recently and thought it was so good, I wanted to share it with you! Here's an excerpt of the article.

"'There are 3 alternatives I use so that I don't have to say 'no' so often, so that when I do say 'no' my children will know that I mean it. The first alternative to a question like 'Mom, can I have a cookie?' is 'yes, later'. The child is already to fight a 'no', and it's harder to fight a 'yes, later'. The second alternative to a question such as 'Mom can I go to a friend's house?' could be 'give me a minute.' There's nothing wrong with asking for a moment to develop your own case. The third alternative which is great for teens and a question like 'Mom, can I have the car keys?' is 'convince me'.'
By choosing our 'no's' carefully Coloroso says we're then able to save them for those really important questions."

For the whole article, click here.

Wednesday, October 21, 2009

Tip of the Week: Pumpkin Decorating With Your Little Pumpkin

You'd love to include your toddler in your Halloween pumpkin carving, but how? Traditional pumpkin carving involves knives and sharp tools! Baby-proof your Halloween tradition by asking your child to pull out the gooey pumpkin insides. Yes, this will be messy, so be sure to put him or her in play clothes and have plenty of wipes handy.

Next, buy markers that work well on the surface of a pumpkin and allow your child to doodle or draw a face. There are also a number of kits you can purchase with foamies shaped like eyes, mouths and noses. A toddler can easily apply these with a little adult assistance. Finally, at the grocery store you can find a variety of seasonal gourds that can be used to decorate your pumpkin. Simply stick them on a toothpick and help your child assemble his very own jack-'o-lantern. Happy decorating!

Thursday, October 15, 2009

Tip of the Week: Protecting Your Baby from H1N1

If you're a new mother, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says you should take the following steps to prevent exposing your child to swine flu:
- Wash hands frequently and always cover your mouth with your elbow when sneezing or coughing. If you're already ill, consider wearing a face mask around your baby.
- If you are breastfeeding, don’t stop. Breast milk contains antibodies that help your baby fight disease.
- It is safe to breastfeed even if you are taking medicine prescribed to treat the H1N1 virus.
- If your baby's sick, continue to breastfeed as often as possible. Hydration is important when a child is ill, and there is no better fluid than breast milk.
- If your child is too ill to breastfeed, consider using a syringe or eye dropper.

Friday, October 2, 2009

Tip of the Week: Fabulous Fall

Although summer is my favorite season, I do enjoy the beauty of fall foliage and a family trip to the pumpkin patch. My favorites are Goebbert's Pumpkin Patch in Hampshire, IL, and Sonny Acres in West Chicago. I never let an October pass me by without visiting both of these wonderful pumpkin patches. For more autumn fun and a twist on the classic pumpkin patch outing, visit a local apple farm to pick your own apples. Click here for a complete list of Illinois pumpkin patches, apple farms and Christmas tree farms!

Thursday, September 10, 2009

Tip of the Week: Choices

I had always been opposed to school uniforms -- that is, until my daughter became obsessed with purple and wearing anything that sparkled. Getting dressed in the morning became a battle. My friend had it even worse. Her son would wear only his Spider-Man costume! He insisted on wearing it everywhere (even to swimming lessons) until she finally gave up, and he grew out of it.

Now, with the start of the new school year, I am actually looking forward to the simplicity of these school uniforms. Of course, as parents, we don't want to squash our children's self-expression, but it's not all right to wear shorts in the middle of winter!

For me, school uniforms have made life easier. If your school doesn't use them, however, do your children and yourself a favor by giving them clear choices. I suggest narrowing the scope: Pull out two different outfits and tell them, "You can wear this or this. Which one would you like to wear today?"

When you offer your child a choice, whether it be about clothing or food, you're giving him or her a sense of power, therefore defusing the power struggle. I also recommend picking out and talking about outfits the night before. That way if you're running late in the morning, you won't have to worry about your child spending extra time deciding on clothes!

Offering children choices works well for many of the different interactions that you have with them, and everyone will be happier because of it!

Saturday, August 29, 2009

Tip of the Week: BPA-free... to what degree?

With everything you hear and read lately about the endocrine-disrupting
chemical Bisphenol A (BPA), many parents, including myself, have decided to
avoid it at all costs. I was surprised to find out recently that one of my
family's favorite eco-friendly water bottle brands, SIGG, may not be 100%
BPA-free after all!

My daughter's SIGG water bottle goes everywhere with her; it's cute and
convenient. Now the company has announced that its water bottle liners made
before August 2008 contain traces of BPA. The company has done comprehensive
testing and says there's "absolutely no migration or leaching of BPA or any
other substance from the protective inner liner."

If you'd like to know whether your SIGG bottles contain an old liner or the
new "EcoCare" liner that's 100% BPA-free, check the color. The old liner has
a shiny copper finish, and the new liner is a pale yellow. Keep in mind that
although production with the old liner stopped in August 2008, many are
still in stores. For more information, visit http://mysigg.com/liner.

Now that you have all the facts, take a look under the lid of your family's
water bottles and see if SIGG's announcement affects you, too!

Tuesday, August 25, 2009

Tip of the Week: A Farm Adventure

While on vacation last week I stumbled upon the perfect venue for family fun this fall. It's a bit of a drive, but Green Meadows Farm in Waterford, Wisconsin, is well worth it! About 1 hour 30 minutes away from Chicago, the kid-friendly petting farm is one of several across the country that caters to children with hands-on exploration. Young and old are encouraged to learn through interaction with the farm animals. Children can cuddle with bunnies, kittens, chicks, ducklings and more. Green Meadows Farm also has hay rides, animal shows and lots of food and beverage options.

There's no need to worry about your little one's safety or sanitation -- this place is sparkling clean! Animal pens are fresh and tidy, and there are outdoor sinks and several antibacterial stations with easy instructions on how to have a safe visit.

To find out more about Green Meadows Farm, visit www.greenmeadowsfarmwi.com or call 262-534-2891. You can arrive 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and stay as long as you like, Wednesday through Sunday, until Sept. 7. Green Meadows will reopen for fall with a pick-your-own-pumpkin patch on Sept. 26 and will remain open, seven days a week, with arrivals 10 a.m.-3 p.m. through Oct. 31. Admission is $12 per person, and children under 1 are free.

I highly recommend this for the entire family. My favorite thing was watching the fun-loving pot-bellied pigs. And it was a delight to watch my daughter milk a cow and collect eggs from the chicken coop! This is well worth the trip!

Wednesday, August 12, 2009

Tip of the Week: One Last Ride

After 81 fun-filled years, Kiddieland in Melrose Park will close its doors forever this fall. Kiddieland, the last privately owned and oldest operating amusement park in Chicagoland, had more than 30 rides for kids. Parents and kids alike enjoyed Kiddieland for its nostalgic charm and unique attractions. Kiddieland will definitely be missed!

Experience the magic one more time before it closes Sept. 27. You can find out more by visiting the Kiddieland Web site at www.kiddieland.com or by contacting them at 708-343-8000. Admission is $23 for guests 6 and older. Admission for guests 3-5 years and seniors 60 and older is $20 per person. Children under 2 are free with a paid adult admission. Normal hours, including weekdays, end in August, with only weekend availability in September. Hours vary: check Kiddieland's Web site for more information.

Friday, July 31, 2009

Tip of the Week: Retro on Roscoe

As the summer winds down and we prepare our children for the new school year, the city celebrates with lots of wonderful family-friendly events. A personal favorite is Retro on Roscoe, guaranteed to make your entire family smile!

Retro on Roscoe will take place Saturday, Aug. 1-Sunday, Aug. 2, noon-10 p.m. The two fun-filled days will include great family activities and entertainment. Check out these children's performers taking the main stage this weekend.

Kids Music Lineup
Saturday
Noon -- Radio Disney
1 p.m. -- Mary Macaroni
2 p.m. -- Ralph's World

Sunday
Noon -- Patchouli
1 p.m. -- Scribble Monster
2 p.m. -- Justin Roberts

Monday, July 27, 2009

Tip of the Week: Naptime for Mommies

As a new mother, you can only hope that someone has an answer for
sleep-deprived parents. Unfortunately, there isn't really a single solution.
What works for one mom might not work for another, depending on her
lifestyle and the temperament and health of her child. There is so much
information, and it can be even more overwhelming than the lack of sleep!

You'll have to wait until Sept. 15 to hear Dr. Weissbluth's solutions when
he speaks at Bubbles Academy, but in the meantime, I thought I'd turn to
another expert source, The Mayo Clinic <http://www.mayoclinic.com/>. Here
are some of its suggestions for beating sleep deprivation and reclaiming
your sanity:

Sleep when your baby sleeps. Turn off the ringer on the phone, hide the
laundry, ignore the dishes in the kitchen sink. These things can wait!

Set aside your hospitality. When friends and family visit, don't feel
pressure to be a hostess. Let them care for the baby while you excuse
yourself for some much-needed rest. Believe me, they will understand.

I wholeheartedly believe that you should quickly reclaim your bedroom. At
first, you may feel more secure sharing a bedroom with your baby —
especially if you're breast-feeding. But if your baby's crying, squirming
and restlessness keep you awake, separate rooms may be the key to sound
sleep and a sound marriage.

Adjust the baby monitor. Lying in bed listening to your baby's every
movement may be just as disruptive as having your baby in the room. Change
the volume based on how loudly your baby cries.

Share nighttime duties. Work out a schedule with your spouse that allows
both of you to rest and care for the baby. If you're breast-feeding, perhaps
your partner could bring you the baby and handle nighttime diaper changes.
If you're using a bottle, take turns on feedings.

Wait and see. I know it is difficult, but sometimes, middle-of-the-night
fussing or crying is simply a sign that your baby is settling in. Unless you
suspect that the baby is hungry or uncomfortable, it's OK to wait a few
minutes to see what happens.

Ask for help when you need it. Take advantage of baby-sitting offers from
trusted friends or loved ones. You don't need to go out — simply head to
your bedroom and close the door. It is important to spend time taking care
of yourself as well!

Tuesday, July 21, 2009

Tip of the Week: Relieving Teething

It seems like teething is an endless process for our children, and there is
little we can do to soothe those tender gums. There are a
tremendous amount of teethers out there, but sometimes tough teethers can
inflame our little ones' gums, making them even more uncomfortable.

Try the Born Free teether with gum
massager<http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3502435>,
which is made of 100% medical grade silicone. It has five different
textures, including a side with soft bristles. It's also free of
Bisphenol-A, Phthalates and PVC, and can be refrigerated or frozen.

If you prefer tried-and-true home remedies, try taking a wet, clean
washcloth and freezing it. Babies can gnaw on the material, which will
gently massage their gums without inflaming them further. Make sure the
cloth is not too cold and that it's free of loose strings.

Sunday, July 12, 2009

Tip of the Week: Sunny Day Fun!

In Chicago, summer is one of the best times to find some family fun. In
addition to beautiful views and our fabulous lakefront beaches, we have lots
of wonderful, family-friendly festivals all summer long. Two that you should
check out this weekend are the Great Performers of Illinois and Kid Fest.

Great Performers of Illinois takes place at Millennium Park and runs from
Friday, July 10, to Monday, July 13. Highlights include an array of musical
performances on multiple stages. Families can enjoy other free programs,
including:

- Kid-friendly activities such as square dancing, storytelling and circus
arts.
- A huge urban corn maze, made of 6,000 stalks of corn.
- Large Illinois-inspired sidewalk chalk drawings.
- Moving performers, including Abe and Mary Todd Lincoln.
- Hands-on activities and exhibits for children, presented by the Abraham
Lincoln Presidential Library and Museum
- Park tours with Millennium Park greeters.

For more information, go to www.greatperformersofillinois.com.

Also this weekend is Kid Fest at Commercial Park, at Wolcott and Rice
streets. Proceeds will go to improvements for Superior, Honore and Snowberry
playgrounds. Activities include face-painting, bounce houses, cookie
decorating, pony rides, a petting zoo, crafts, a climbing wall and stage
performances. Kid Fest is part of West Fest, which runs July 11-12. For more
information, visit www.westfestchicago.com.

Wednesday, June 24, 2009

Tip of the Week: Splish Splash!

It's finally warm enough to enjoy the first days of summer! Don't worry --
even though the nice weather got a late start this year, there's still
plenty of time to spend days at the pool. In addition to Chicago's terrific
parks, there are also quite a few public pools. Perhaps the nicest one is at
Holstein Park, because of its baby pool. You and your tot can soak in a
little sun, and you can introduce him or her to the water.

Below is the schedule, address and phone number for Holstein Park. You can
also go to www.chicagoparkdistrict.com for more information and to find out
about other local public pools. Don't forget your sunscreen!

Holstein Park and Pool
2200 N. Oakley Ave.
Chicago, IL 60647-3236
312-742-7554

Family Swim
Monday-Friday, 9-10:45 a.m. and 4-5 p.m.
Saturday and Sunday, 11:45 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and 3:30-4:45 p.m.

Additional Family Swim Times
Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 5-5:45 p.m.

Open Swim
Monday-Friday 1-3:45 p.m.; Saturday and Sunday, 12:30-3:15 p.m.

Monday, June 22, 2009

Tip of the Week: Kids' Restaurant Week!

Cookie and Gourmet magazines are hosting Kids' Restaurant Week 2009 and
invite you to join them for a week-long promotion June 20-28. Enjoy an
inexpensive -- but very nice! -- dinner with your children while
contributing to local charities. Participating restaurants are listed
below.

Reservations can be made through www.opentable.com or by calling the
restaurant directly. For more, visit www.kidsrestaurantweek.com/chicago.asp.

Prix fixe menus: Adults pay $29; Kids 11 and under pay their age
Early dinner seating 5-7 p.m.
A portion of proceeds will benefit local charities.

312 Chicago, 136 N. La Salle Street at Randolph 312-696-2420
Aigre Doux Restaurant and Bakery, 230 W. Kinzie Street 312-329-9400
Big Jones, 5347 N. Clark Street 773-275-5725
Bistro 110, 110 East Pearson Street 312-266-3110
Cafe Spiaggia, 980 North Michigan Avenue, 2nd Floor 312-280-2750
Coco Pazzo Café, 300 W. Hubbard Street #1 312-836-0900
David Burke's Primehouse, 616 N Rush St 312-660-6000
Di Pescara, 2124 Northbrook Court 847-498-4321
Duchamp, 2118 N. Damen Avenue 773-235-6434
Eve, 840 N. Wabash Avenue 312-266-3383
Fulton's on the River, 315 N. LaSalle Street 312-822-0100
Landmark, 1633 N. Halsted Street 312-587-1600
Markethouse, 611 North Fairbanks Ct. 312-224-2200
One Sixty Blue, 1400 W Randolph Street 312-850-0303
Osteria Via Stato, 620 N. State Street 312-642-8450
Prosecco, 710 North Wells Street 312-951-9500
Reel Club, 272 Oakbrook Center 630-368-9400
Scoozi!, 410 W Huron St 312-943-5900
Socca, 3301 N Clark St 773-248-1155
Uncommon Ground, 3800 N. Clark St 773-929-3680
Vie, 4471 Lawn Avenue 708-246-2082

Saturday, June 20, 2009

Speaker Series Summary

WHAT WE LEARNED: Booty Camp Potty Training With Wendy Sweeney
Registered nurse Wendy Sweeney led our June 2 speaker series event. Here are
a few tips I wanted to share!

- Get prepared: Children are generally ready to potty train by age 2 1/2.
- Find a simple potty for your child; bells and whistles only complicate
things!
- Set aside three days to stay home and focus on potty training.
- Tell your child that he or she is now responsible for "listening to
your body" and understanding its signals.
- Empower children to potty when they need to, and make them responsible
for their own success.
- Switch to cloth "big-kid" underwear for the training process. Do
intermittent checks and give rewards for dryness.
- If your child has an accident, he or she is responsible for cleaning it
up with your help. This will show children that going in your pants is no
longer the easiest way.
- Ask your child for exactly the changes you want. This allows a child to
know your expectations and sets him or her up for success.

Our next speakers will be baby sign language experts Susan and Rick Rizzo on
Friday, July 24, 3-4 p.m.! Call 312-944-7677 or visit our front office to
register.

Monday, June 15, 2009

Tip of the Week: Under the Sea!

In honor of its wonderful new exhibits and the redesigned Oceanarium, Shedd
Aquarium is offering free general admission June 14-19. Packages including
Wild Reef are available at a discounted rate.

Little ones will enjoy exploring and using their imaginations in the new
Polar Play Zone as they dress up as penguins or ride in a child-size
submarine. From there, they can visit the new beluga exhibit and head over
to the tide pools to touch beautiful starfish.

If you can't make it this week, don't worry -- other Community Discount Days
are scheduled for fall:

*Sept. 21, 22, 28 and 29
Oct. 4-9, 12, 13, 19, 20, 26 and 27
Nov. 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23, 24 and 30*

For more information, check out the Shedd Aquarium Web site at
www.sheddaquarium.org/discounts.html

Wednesday, June 3, 2009

Tip of the Week: Words to Inspire!

As a parent and someone who works with children, I am always looking for
ways to build a child's self-confidence. It's one of the hardest things to
teach, and one of the most important life lessons to learn.

“The Dot” and “Ish” by Peter H. Reynolds<http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_ss_m?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=Peter+H.+Reynolds&x=0&y=0>are
two short books that teach this lesson in a simple and touching way.
The author received the Irma S. and James H. Black Award for Excellence in
Children's Literature, and it is well deserved.

"The Dot" is about a girl who is frustrated because she thinks she can’t
draw. All she can put on paper is a single dot. Even so, her art teacher
encourages her to sign her name and hand it in. When she comes to class the
next day, her dot is framed and hanging above her teacher’s desk.

In “Ish,” a little boy is devastated when his older brother makes fun of his
artwork. He is so ashamed that he crumples up his latest piece, and his
younger sister grabs the discarded work and runs to her room. As he opens
her door to confront her, he sees that all of his art has been hung on her
bedroom walls!

Both of these books illustrate the unlimited potential of children and
encourage them to reach it!

Tuesday, June 2, 2009

Tip of the Week: Baby, You Can Drive My Car!

Before you know it, you'll be moving your son or daughter from a baby's car seat into a child's booster seat. The convenience is wonderful, but as a
parent, I've wondered about booster seats' safety. However, I'm happy to share that I've found a seat that is safe and stylish.

Clek booster seats <http://www.magnaclek.com/us/english/default.aspx> are designed by an automotive-seat manufacturer, and they use the same materials
for their hip car seats. More importantly, Clek's seats have a rigid latch
system that many other boosters don't. This will secure the car seat while
it's being used and prevent an unused seat from flying out and injuring a
passenger if there's an accident. Clek seats come in lots of fun patterns,
including some created by Paul
Frank<http://www.magnaclek.com/us/english/seat_cover/index.aspx>!

You can buy Clek booster seats from several sites, including
www.babycarseats.com. Parents give them five stars!

Thursday, May 21, 2009

Tip of the Week: A smile for Dad!

Save money and help the environment this Father's Day by sending Dad an
e-mail card from your child! If e-cards aren't your style, but you like the
idea of saving money and paper, try this simple and creative solution that
will make Dad's day:

Using a piece of scrap paper, help your child make a sign that says, "I love
you, Daddy! Happy Father's Day!" Take a quick shot on your digital camera of
your child holding the sign and send it to his e-mail. Your child's smile
will make Dad smile, too!

Monday, May 4, 2009

Tip of the Week: Developmental Support

Did you know that the state of Illinois provides a wide range of early
intervention services? They're free to eligible children up to age 3 and can
help with developmental challenges related to vision, hearing, speech, fine
and gross motor skills, self-help skills, behavior and nutrition.

Here are three ways the Illinois Early Intervention programs can help:

- A therapist will work at least monthly with children and their families
to provide education, intervention and environmental support.
- The therapist will also evaluate the child's and family's needs and
will review activities for parents and caregivers to do with the child.
- The therapist will provide training, evaluations and assistance for a
child's specific challenges.

If you have questions or concerns about your child’s development, it's
better to be safe than sorry. Through early intervention, these obstacles
often can be tackled and overcome. Visit Illinois Early Intervention's Web
site at http://www.eiclearinghouse.org/ei_home.html to find out more about
the support the state offers to families.

Monday, April 27, 2009

Tip of the Week: Favors with Flair

As a mother, I have spent hours trying to come up with creative goodie bag
favors for my daughter's themed birthday parties. Yet like most mothers, I
know that we wind up throwing out these same toys from friends' parties the
minute our children have forgotten about them. So how can we find favors
that are fun, memorable and useful?

Problem solved! For my daughter's next party, I'm going to turn to
www.Frecklebox.com, <http://www.frecklebox.com/> which offers personalized
stickers in a variety of party themes, such as Pirate or Princess! Each
party attendee will go home with three sheets of personalized party
stickers. The first dozen of the same design is $3.95, and each dozen after
that is $2. I'm also a huge fan of their personalized place mats and
coloring books! Now that's what I call creative, and I'm confident my mom
friends will appreciate the effort!

Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Tip of the Week: A New Place to Play!

http://www.fieldmuseum.org/
http://www.fieldmuseum.org/playlab/ (if you want a more specific link)

The new Crown Family PlayLab at the Field Museum offers six themed play areas, adding even more kid appeal to a place already packed with exhibits that will pique your child’s curiosity and imagination. Family restrooms, an eating area, stroller parking, a “book nook” and infant play zones help make the PlayLab a haven for parents, too.

Here are a few PlayLab highlights for your children:

Babies: Little music-lovers will enjoy hearing Japanese taiko drums and playing elephant bells from India in the PlayLab’s Rhythm Section.

Toddlers & Pre-K: Kids this age will go crazy digging for dinosaur bones, making rubbings of real fossils and becoming a “Jr. Paleontologist” in the Dino Field Station.

To plan your visit:

The Field Museum
1400 S. Lake Shore Drive
Chicago, IL 60605-2496
312-922-9410

Hours: The museum is open 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily, and the Crown Family PlayLab’s hours are 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with the last admission at 3 p.m. The museum sometimes closes early; call ahead or check the Web site before you go: http://www.fieldmuseum.org/

Parents with strollers should use the wheelchair-accessible east entrance. The museum also rents strollers.

Wednesday, April 15, 2009

Tip of the Week: Quick n' Tasty Dinner!

It is no secret that I am a terrible cook! I lack the patience, but as
a working mother, I also lack the time. I am always looking for easy
but delicious shortcuts in the kitchen. The following is a quick but
yummy recipe for days when you just can’t do it all!

Salsa Wraps
In skillet, brown chicken breast pieces in olive oil. When chicken is
cooked through, add salsa. Shred chicken in the salsa and layer
mixture on warmed tortillas with lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, sliced
avocado, and sour cream. Fold tortilla and enjoy!

Wednesday, April 8, 2009

Tip of the Week: A Moment to Yourself!

As a mother, I realize that finding time for yourself can be nearly
impossible! Schedule a date with yourself and curl up to Best-selling
authors Trisha Ashworth and Amy Nobile's second book "I'd Trade My
Husband for a Housekeeper: Loving Your Marriage after the Baby
Carriage".

The title alone may ring a chord with most mothers, but it is inside
its pages where the authors offer a very honest account of how
marriage is affected by children. By interviewing hundreds of mothers
and fathers the authors were able to create a well-rounded perspective
on whether such a thing as blissful marriage after children exists.
This book examines the challenges of parenthood for married couples
today, and gives hope to mothers that balancing a loving marriage and
children is possible!

Tuesday, March 31, 2009

Tip of the Week: A Place to Explore!

The Museum of Science and Industry is a place children love to explore!
Toddlers will be fascinated by the Transportation Gallery, where they'll see
a full-size airplane and watch model trains zoom by. Visit the Baby Chick
Hatchery and the Farm Tech exhibit, where adventuresome toddlers can crawl
into a tractor and pretend to take it for a spin. And your little princess
will be enchanted by Colleen Moore’s Fairy Castle!

If you're looking for more of a hands-on experience, go to the Idea Factory
where children ages 10 and younger can experiment with construction
materials, simple machines, light, color, magnetism, balance, air and water.

And here's something that will make your visit even more fun: The Museum of
Science and Industry
has several free admission days coming up -- April 22,
June 1-5 and June 19.

Monday, March 23, 2009

Mommy Mingler: Stories n' Snacks!


Hello Triple B Members,

I'd like to invite you to attend our March Mommy Mingler! We will be
meeting fellow Triple B members and their children to join us at Barnes
and Noble at the intersection of Clybourn and Webster for story time!
After story time, we can cross the street and have a bite to eat at
Potbelly's! I hope you will join us! This is a great way to meet
members from other Triple B groups!

When: Thursday,March 26th
Time: 9:30 (Please come early, as it gets crowded. Story time begins at
10:00am.)
Where: Barnes and Noble (Intersection of Clybourn and Webster Avenue)
Who: Triple B Members and their children. Friends are welcome too!
Cost: Free
Parking: There is a lot with validated parking with a purchase or metered
street parking is usually available.

Please RSVP to kim@bubblesacademy.com! Stay tuned for details regarding our
group leader-hosted April Mommy Mingler!

Hope to see you all there!

Kim

Wednesday, March 18, 2009

Tip of the Week: Busy Tots!

All parents experience the "witching hours" between 4 and 6 p.m. These are
the times when kids complain, "I have nothing to do!" or "I'm bored!" If
you're as busy as I am, you won't have a steady supply of ready-to-go art
projects handy, but www.BusyTotBox.com certainly does. Each month, four craft
kits, snacks, fun facts and recipes
will come right to your door. Parenting made easy -- or at least easier!

Monday, March 9, 2009

Tip of the Week: Buckle Up!

Every parent understands the importance of car safety seats for babies, but
you might not know the state of Illinois's requirements for older children.
Some facts about all of our state's laws:

- A child younger than 1 should be in a rear-facing seat in the back of
the car.
- If a child is under 20 pounds but older than 1, he/she should remain
rear-facing in the back seat.
- The Illinois Child Passenger Protection Act mandates the use of car
safety seats until age 8. Children younger than 8 must be secured in an
appropriate child safety seat, which include infant seats, convertible seats
or booster seats for use with a lap-and-shoulder-belt system.
- It's safest to keep your child in a 5-point harness for as long as
possible. Some car seat manufacturers have seats for children up to 80
pounds.
- Finally, take the time to ensure that the car seat is installed
properly.You can contact the following agencies to help you: Free services
are available at safekids.org and seatcheck.net, or you can visit
safetysquad.com, a paid service in Chicago.

For more info, read up on the recommendations of the American Academy of
Pediatrics at www.aap.org/healthtopics/carseatsafety.cfm and see Illinois
recommendations at www.buckleupillinois.org/default.asp.

Monday, March 2, 2009

Margarita Mamas!

Hello BBB Members!

We're always excited to see what our members are up to, and wanted to share this fun event! A group of moms are meeting for drinks at Uncle Julio's after Bubbles Academy's Open Play on Thursdays! Details below:

What: Tots, Talk & Tequila
Where: Uncle Julio's, 855 W North
When: Thursdays at 3:30, starting March 5
RSVP: annasharp@gmail.com


We hope to see you there!



Thursday, February 26, 2009

Tip of the Week: Bottoms Up!

Caring for new babies can be very stressful, and as mothers we strive to
keep them comfortable and healthy. Still, even with the best care and
caution, babies can end up with diaper rash. Here are several
recommendations from the American Academy
of Family Physicians that can help you
and your baby avoid this uncomfortable condition:

1) Check your baby's diaper often and change it as soon as it's soiled.
2) Carefully clean your baby's bottom between diaper changes. Use warm water
with -- or without -- a very mild soap.
3) Let your baby's skin dry completely before putting on another diaper.
4) Avoid baby wipes that are scented or contain alcohol.
5) Use ointments that contain zinc oxide (such as Desitin) or petroleum
(such as Vaseline) to protect your baby's skin from moisture.
6) Avoid plastic pants or diapers with plastic edges.
7) After your baby's bath, pat his or her bottom dry with a towel instead of
rubbing it. Rubbing can irritate your baby's sensitive skin.
8) If your baby's diaper rash persists, change the brand of wipes, diapers
or soap you're using and consult your doctor.

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Tip of the Week: Stylish City Wheels!

Are you tired of lugging around a bulky stroller? If so, you might want to
upgrade to the City Mini by Baby Jogger!
(http://babyjogger.com/cityminimain.htm) This super-light stroller will make
getting around Chicago a breeze -- and in plenty of time to maneuver through
the festival and beach crowds of spring and summer.

You can check out this stroller and more at The Right Start, 2121 N. Clybourn!

Tuesday, February 10, 2009

Tip of the Week: Hand-me-downs!

When the going gets tough, the moms get going! You can clean out your closet
-- and make a little money, too -- by posting items on handmedowns.com.
Children's clothing, maternity wear, bedding, cribs, strollers and toys are
just some of the items that can be bought, sold, given away or donated to a
charity on these classified ads just for mommies!

After cleaning out the closet, you might need a break -- so check out
handmedowns.com's list of available caregivers! Enjoy!

Monday, February 2, 2009

Tip of the Week: Green and Stylish

We all try to do our part to take care of the environment, so why not do it
with a little style?

Goody Green Bags (available at http://goodygreenbag.com/) are reusable bags
that are functional, but still stylish. Choose from several trendy patterns
and have fun while doing your part to help the environment. The bags are
made from non-woven polypropylene -- a coated, water-resistant material that
is light, durable, fire-resistant and best of all, washable!

This great Triple B Tip was brought to us by Triple B member Sarah Rudich.
Thanks, Sarah!

Thursday, January 29, 2009

Tip of the Week: Art for All Ages!

Planning to take your budding Picasso to the Museum of Contemporary Art?
Then check out Target Family Days on the second Saturday of the month, 11
a.m. to 3 p.m. Admission is free for families with children under age 12,
and it includes art activities and tours. Upcoming dates are Feb. 14, March
15, April 11 and May 9. For more information, visit mcachicago.org

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Tip of the Week: Baby Belts

We all love our little ones and their baby bellies. There is absolutely
nothing better than tickling those tummies! But there will come a time
when they'll need belts to hold up those cute little drawers. Baby belts
are difficult to find in stores, but you'll have a great time shopping on
this Web site discovered by one of our Triple B mothers:
http://shop.babybeltz.com/main.sc. These belts are both practical and
cute, and the site offers lots of color combinations to help you pick just
the right one -- or, if you like them as much as I do, the right two or
three!

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

January Mommy Mingler!

Hello BBB Members!

Don't forget about our upcoming Mommy Mani/Pedi Night!

The salon is at 1917B W. Fullerton and we will be there from 7p-10p.

Manicures are $12, Pedicures are $23, and both are $30.

Please call the Front Office at 312.944.7677 to register!

Tuesday, January 6, 2009

Tip of the Week: Tots on Tuesdays!

 While I always look forward to the start of the New Year, I dread the
doldrums of January and I am always fearful of the time we will have to
spend indoors. I am always on the lookout for fun things to do with my
daughter to prevent either one of us from climbing the walls, and I
remembered Tots on Tuesdays at the Shedd Aquarium. Every Tuesday, Shedd
offers a full day of activities created especially for preschoolers. "Tots
on Tuesdays" includes story times, crafts, animal touch programs, videos,
costumed characters, dancing and singing. Activities are theme-based and
they change the theme every eight weeks, providing new experiences
throughout the year. "Tots on Tuesdays" programs are designed for children
ages 3 through 5, but younger and older children enjoy them, too. This is
free with admission price. Find more information about these activities on
their website www.sheddaquarium.org.

Also, don't forget that you can use your Chicago Public Library card to
checkout Museum passes to gain free admission into area Museums including
The Shedd Aquarium! www.chipublib.org

Monday, January 5, 2009

A Thought for the New Year



There are often gifts that we receive that mean more to the person giving them than to the receiver. There was the fiber optic mechanical angel that we received from our elderly neighbor one Christmas that, despite my husband's repeated requests, I just can’t seem to get it from the basement closet out to the garbage can. God forbid she might see it in there! More importantly, I know that when she picked it out, it was done with a thoughtful heart. For that reason alone, we have a closet full of gifts that I just can’t justify parting with.

This fall, my husband’s grandmother passed away, and when my mother-in-law said that she had left a Christmas gift for us, I admit that I had high hopes. I could tell by her enthusiasm that it had meant something to her. Unsure of what this might be, I tentatively opened up a small, red, sequined box shaped like a Christmas light. I feigned enthusiasm as my mother-in-law explained that she had left this especially for us. Turning it over, I realized that it once contained chocolates. Clearly, this was something that the average person would have thrown out (after all, if we kept every pretty box and ribbon, our home would be a disaster area!). However, this box obviously had meant something to my husband’s grandmother. Perhaps it had been given to her by her husband on their first Christmas or by a dear friend. Or maybe this small box reminded her of a special Christmas that her family had spent together. I probably will never know what made her keep this box. Maybe she just thought it was too pretty to throw away. I knew right away that I had to keep this, and that it deserved a special place in our home.

In the end, I decided that we would keep the box on the coffee table in our living room every year during the holidays, and we would make it our family suggestion box. Each family member would be allowed to make one request each week and the rest of our family would have to honor it. My husband’s request was that we pick up after ourselves, my request of course was that he be a little more laid back about the typical messes that families make, and my daughter requested that we all stop bickering (oh, the knowledge of six year olds these days).

So, that little red box with the sequins peeling off turned out to be a very special gift to our family this Christmas and always. I am certain that Grandma Arlene would happy to know that it has a special place within our family and that we are honoring her and her gift to us.

This holiday season, take a moment to look beyond the gifts you receive and remember the people behind the ribbon and paper. Happy New Year to you and your families, and may 2009 bring you lots of red, shiny boxes with hidden surprises.