Its Showtime!!!

One of my favorite memories as a child, was getting dressed up and heading into the city to go see a show. Hearing the quiet chatter as people gathered to their seats, waiting for the curtain to rise as the lights went dim was so thrilling I almost couldn’t stand the excitement.
Now every chance possible my husband and I try to create that thrill for our children. It’s a day filled with train, show and lots of goodies here, there and in between. However, we all know that the cost of a show and making a day of it is not always so friendly on the wallet. Not to mention if you have little ones, the day is long and sometimes all the fun is hard for them to handle. That is why we were more than happy to have found the Downtown Cabaret Theatre in Bridgeport, CT. The Children’s company has great performances for kids and adults alike. A skip away, short shows, a personable feel is a half day filled of pure entertainment.
The preparation starts well in advance, from picking a show, getting the tickets and on the day of preparing the “Food” tote packed with lots of treats all to enjoy at our table while we watch the show. And the fun doesn't end there...after the show you can get autographs and pictures with the cast as they stand in the lobby.
To see my children’s faces shine when the stage lights up is truly amazing and a great memory for us to share. It really is fantastic!

For more info check out their website: http://www.dtcab.com/
If you are not local, check out cabaret theatres in your area.

Playgroup Etiquette

There is such a thing as Playgroup etiquette. Below are some tips I've gathered from experience and from friends:

1. Use a calendar to keep track of hosting. If it’s your week to host, send out a reminder email and for those attending - RSVP

2. If your child is not feeling well, skip the playgroup until the following week or when he/she is feeling better.

3. If your child is misbehaving, don’t ignore the bad behavior. Give the proper warnings and leave the playgroup if it continues. If your child is having a tantrum take them in another room or home!

4. Don’t discipline other people’s kids. If someone’s child did something bring it to the parent’s attention.

5. Keep in mind that playgroup is for both children and their parents/caregiver. Don’t use the playgroup as a babysitting service as your attendance is essential. You are also responsible for your child even when you are at someone’s home.

6. If you host always provide some kind of food. Kids get hungry and playgroups tend to incorporate fun food and drink. For those attending, bring a snack and drink if your child has an allergy or if you do not want them to eat what is being offered.

7. Make guests feel that they can be at home. If there are rooms that you do not want entered, close the door or block off those rooms with a gate or chairs. Make sure cabinets are child proofed if you do not want them opened.

8. Have the toys out and ready.

9. Don’t throw away dirty diapers in the trash unless you ask.

10. Help clean up after playgroup. Encourage your child to help too!

Playgroup playtime!

Playgroups are a great way to reconnect with the world after having a baby. There are so many benefits to joining a playgroup, for babies and tots it aids in social development. For moms and dads alike you have a chance to talk, share ideas and experiences with other parents. It also gives both parent and child something to look forward to each week. If you are not part of a playgroup here are a few basic steps in forming and finding one:

* Determine what kind of group you will have. Will it be only infants, or just toddlers or preschoolers?
* Consider the number of participants. Most playgroups range from five to 10 parents.
* Decide what you want to do with your group. Will it be playtime for the children, will it offer structured activities or will it be a series of field trips?
* Choose a day and time most convenient to you and group members (once you know who they will be).
* Where will you meet? If you choose to have it at each others homes, have a calendar showing the rotation. And to add variation, if the weather is nice, suggest a park or beach or for tots maybe even a museum!
* Find the people in your group. Perhaps you have group of friends with kids the same age or maybe you have met some parents at the hospital when you had your baby. You may even try joining a newcomers group in your area which more than likely will have playgroup coordinators.

Good luck and happy playing!

Let It Snow!

With all the snow on the ground, sledding is on the top of the list of fun things to do. We know this first hand as we have a huge hill in our backyard perfect for this activity. While I love to see them laughing all the way down, my main concern is “watch out”. I’m always worried about who is bumping into who, if they swerve off course into the bushes or I’m thinking “they’ve been out here for hours, they must be freezing….” Below are some tips on how to keep your little snow bunnies safe:
* Adults should always supervise children while they are sledding.
* Make sure the hill is safe: that means a hill without obstacles in the sledding path, which doesn’t end near a street, parking lot, pond, or other danger.
* Take time to avoid collisions – make sure the path is clear of other sledders
* Children under age 12 should wear a fitted helmet while sledding.
* Never go down a hill headfirst; sit facing forward
* If you want to go sledding in the evening, make sure the area is well lit.
* Wear warm and layered clothing to protect from injuries and the cold.

And there is nothing better then coming inside and warming up with a nice cup of hot cocoa! Have fun and Happy Winter!

The "Snack" Platter

With the Halloween filled with candy and the holidays filled with irresistible sweet treats, to be assured that your kids are getting their fruits and veggies for snack make a the "snack" platter when they get home from school. It’s a huge hit in our house and very simple to prepare.

Carrots or sliced cucumbers with hummus or yogurt ranch dip
Stone wheat crackers and some sliced cheddar cheese
Sliced apples and a mound of raisins

You’re filling a platter with wonderful choices and they think “wow look how much stuff we can eat before dinner”.

Holiday Shopping Time!!!

Time to shop for the holidays
Why not shop for a good cause and make it a Girl’s Night Out too!
Sip, Shop and Share Holiday Boutique
November 18, 7-10pm
November 19, 10-2pm
36 New Canaan Road
Wilton, CT

No admission just a donation of canned food, pantry items, a toy or toiletries to be donated to a local charity

Shop the goodies from many local businesses in the area, gather with some friends and have fun!

Holiday Special

Tis' the season - The Oak Tree Agency has a holiday special! We are currently offering a 15% off any placement fee. Placements must be made before Dec. 31, 2010. For further details, call us at 203.856.6225