New Years Eve EVE Happy Hour -- TONIGHT

Hi All!

If any of you are like me and 9pm is considered a LATE night, then this email could be for you!

Jon and I know we will likely not make it to midnight on the 31st to ring in the new year. We also know that many of you may have plans for the 31st. SO... we thought, heck -- why not throw a New-Year's-Eve-Eve Happy Hour.

That's right. A spontaneous happy hour TONIGHT... Thursday, 12/30 starting at 530p. We will have wine, beer, non-alcoholic drinks, pizza (DiGiorno supreme, pepperoni and cheese pizzas), and munchies. Come on over!

OF COURSE, kids are welcome. =)

Shawn
202 415 4016

Anyone around this weekend?

It's been way too long since we hosted playgroup.

Our house this Sunday at 10!

Hope to see you,

Heather

napping question

I'm wondering if any of you with kids who are starting to nap less have tried shortening the nighttime sleep in response. I know the tendency is to make them go to bed earlier to compensate for the lost sleep, and I know that the kids are eventually supposed to sleep longer every night once they stop napping, but what if you're not ready for them to stop? Can I artificially forestall this dreaded event by keeping him up later at night or not letting him sleep as late in the morning?

Wednesday at Great Kids Village

Hey guys, I'm not sure how many of you are around without childcare on Wednesday, but I was finally going to try out Great Kids Village with Solomon in the morning - around 10 am. I'm anticipating that it will be crowded, so I am going to try to get there when it opens at 10. If anyone wants to join us, please do!

anyone up for the 26th at our house?

Hi all,
this is late notice, but would anyone like to come over around the usual time on the 26th? Shoot me an e-mail if you think you can make it -- that way we'll know whether anyone besides us is around and looking for something to do!
Michelle

sunday at gunnar's?

Any interest in playgroup sunday morning? i know we have a group birthday on saturday, so maybe not... let me know if anyone feels like playing on sunday too, otherwise, next weekend we can host instead if that's better for everyone.

Sunday at our house

Hi everyone,
we'd like to host this Sunday -- hope to see you then. The usual time.
Michelle

Playgroup @ Evan's: Sunday 12/5

Hi all.

Hope this gets to everyone before the end of the workday. Supposed to be cold again on Sunday, so we will likely be inside in the playroom. 10amish. Come and play!

Shawn, Chace and Evan

tomorrow morning

Hey all - Solomon and I thought we'd host a last minute playgroup if anyone is around tomorrow morning. If you are able to rsvp, that would be great, if not, just come on over!

Halloween morning

Hello,

It sounds like at least one person would be interested in a playgroup tomorrow morning, so Seth and I are happy to host. Sunday, 10-ish to noon-ish on Brisbane.

Enjoy all the Halloween festivities this weekend!
Emily

TODAY Halloweeeen on Ellsworth!!

Halloweeeen on Ellsworth!!

Are you looking for a spooky, fun time for the family? Join us for Halloween on Ellsworth on Saturday, October 30th from 2-5pm for a Halloween bash filled with treats and fun activities! We will have costume contests (for various age ranges), pie eating contests, a hay maze, facepainting and our moonbounce! Sound like fun? Well we have plenty more to do! We will also have Make-Your-Own edible broomstick or ghost sponsored by Whole Foods Market, Eyeballs and Brains sponsored by Macaroni Grill, Make-Your-Own Jack-o'-Lantern with Pyramid Atlantic, Make-Your-Own Halloween Scene and more!!! http://www.downtownsilverspring.com/images/pdf/halloween_1010.pdf

Don't forget to bring your favorite pet too for Living Ruff and Eggspectations Pints for Paws from 4-7pm. All pups dressed in costume will receive a trick or treat goody bag!!! www.livingruff.com

Don't miss the best Halloween party in Silver Spring!!!

Air & Scare and Rennfest

Hi all,
We had kind of a busy weekend, and it occurred to me that these might be things people want to think about for next year. We loved Air & Scare, BUT it is out at the Annex by Dulles so it is a 40-50 minute driver AND it is a free event, so everyone and everyone comes ($15 to park). Gunnar loved this. It is inside trick or treating surrounded by all the big things that Smithsonian can't fit on the mall, like the Enterprise space shuttle, Concorde, and tons of fighter planes. There is a flight simulater, and I never did see anything that would fit with the "Scare" billing, so totally toddler appropriate. We went right when it started, maybe we were even 15 minutes early, and got in with no waiting. Friends who were about 40 minutes behind us hit major traffic waits, and bugged out. SO, you must go early, or you could potentially wait for hours. What limits this event is the parking lot, not the space itself. I am hoping that they go to a ticketed format next year, like boo at the zoo. This event draws the Stars Wars fans out too, so there are regiments of Storm Troopers and lots of Lukes and Leias running around too. Very geeky. Bottom line: go early, leave early. The Rennaisance Festival is great, but a little ambitious with an infant in tow. The venue is amazing, lots of permanent structures. Since it is sort of out in the woods, on dirt and grass, this is not a particularly stroller friendly event. I wore the baby. If you have a jogging stroller, this is the only kind I would try to take. The jousting was awesome, and Gunnar loved the horses. There is a tree slide and play area with a huge pirate ship, lots of stages with period music and short plays going. Also, there are lots of handcrafts for sale, you could drop some serious cash at Rennfest (although Master Card, Lady Visa, and New World Express are accepted (hardy har har)). People in costume, or "garb," make for some really cool people watching. The organizers have worked hard to make this a family friendly event. We went with friends who have a 4 and 7 year old, and this seemed like the ideal age for this event. Ok, just wanted to give people some fall ideas for next year :)

November is party time... =)

With so many of our boys born in/around November, I think each week is a party. Woohoo! So let me add to it: Please save the date of Sun, Nov 21st for Evan's 3rd birthday party. Fingers crossed that weather will be nice enough to be outside but we could be pushing it. We are shooting for regular play-group time of 10am extended to 1pm-ish to serve early lunch (around 1130a) and have lots of playtime.

This Sunday

Hey all, please join us at Solomon's this Sunday. Hopefully the weather will be nice so we can see how many monkeys we can fit onto the play set.

cowboy hat?

Hey all - I'm looking for a hat to finish out Solomon's cowboy costume. Do any of you have one you could lend? Also, apologies for missing last week and tomorrow, we've had family in town. I have to check my calendar, but hopefully Solomon (and his new play set!) can host next week.

Save the Date, November 13th

Sebastian is turning 3!

Please save the date of Saturday, November 13th for his birthday party.

Evite will follow shortly (probably 3:30 pm, our house).

this sunday 10/9 at gunnar's house

hi all - we'd love to see everyone this weekend! hoping for wonderful backyard weather! the usual time - 10 ish.

Moms of Multiples sale: This Saturday

Hi All.

A friend forwarded this to me. As many of you know, Moms/Parents of Multiples sales are generally *very* good as there is usually double and / or triple the stuff. ;)

I am not affiliated with this event at all, just thought I would pass on. (Most info is below and go to the link to see what is included: http://www.mcpom.org/saleinstructions.php)

Saturday, October 2, 2010 • 9 to 11:30 a.m. • 12 to 1 p.m.
(12 to 1 p.m. most items ½ price)

Roberto Clemente Middle School • 18808 Waring Station Rd., Germantown. (Middlebrook Rd. to Waring Station Rd.; School is one mile on Waring Station Rd. on Right)

Cash and Checks accepted
Admission: $2/person• N/C after 12pm -- Note, no strollers allowed


Unfortunately, we have a full morning so won't be going, but happy shopping to those who do.

Sunday at 1703

Hey all, looks like we'll be having fabulous weather this weekend!

Playgroup at our house!

1703 Cody Drive.

The usual time, 10am.

Sunday - Evan's house

Hi all. Our turn to host. Hope to see you Sun AM at our place. :)

Forest Grove Park: TODAY at noon

Jon, Evan and Chace are heading to FG Park right now and should be there around noon. Evan is bringing a bag lunch to have at the park. If any friends want to meet him there, please join in. (I would love to play too but today is Daddy's day to enjoy park-fun.)

Jon's cell is 202 415 0688.

happy hour on Saturday?

Hi all,
this is late notice, but we'd love to have folks over around 4 on Saturday for a family happy hour. We'll have some drinks and snacks -- personally, I've found wine to be really necessary now that we have 2 kids.

Just let me know if you think you'll make it so we have an idea of who's coming.
Michelle

Just in case...

I'm sorry play group didn't work out today - I hope Kurt feels better! In an act of desperation - needing to get Solomon out of the house and involved in something fun, we are heading for the metro to ride it to the Building Museum. If anyone wants to join us there, please do!

sunday - 9/12?

hi all,

we are back from myrtle beach and would love to see our friends. i think christina was going to host, but cant because of repair work. can we host instead? anyone around to play tomorrow morning?

thanks,
jessie

This Sunday??

Hello,

Is anyone in town this weekend? Seth and I would be happy to host on Sunday morning. Same time--10ish. Let me know!

Emily

New Babies!

I got some great shots of our new babies and their mommies and brothers. I love how Kurt and Quinne are flirting already!

Saturday play group

I know this is CRAZY...but I thought we'd host playgroup this weekend on Saturday, instead of Sunday. If you can come, we'd love to have you. Esp. all the new babies. Sadly, this may be the last playgroup under the shade of our big maple tree (tree is dying, needs to come down), so hopefully the kids can get some good use out of the swings and the rope ladder.

See you Saturday!

SS Babysitting Co-op

You all may have already seen this email below and signed up. Looks like a cost-effective and safe way to use other SS families for babysitting and to be an available sitter for other families. Cristina passed the email on. I have sent in an email to the organizers and hope (*fingers crossed*) that their membership drive is still on.

What is appealing is that if several of us are involved, we can use our chips with one another as well with other co-op members. Frankly, I OWE Jessie a few babysitting days (or nights) as she has watched Evan AND Evan and Chace for me. But, I don't want to overstep boundaries and be a burden to fellow toddler Moms and Dads. So, this co-op option seems like a pretty good idea.

If I hear back from Anita, I will let you know. It really is a great idea and love that there is a group in SS that does it. Read below to learn more, and if interested, contact Anita directly.

Cheers.

Shawn

-----------
Silver Spring Babysitting Coop – accepting new members
Posted by: "anitadances" anitawiler@hotmail.com anitadances
Fri Jul 30, 2010 5:33 am (PDT)


The Silver Spring Babysitting Coop was formed from members of this listserve 5 years ago - and we are accepting a few more member families right now. It's a group of roughly 30 families that trade free babysitting using special poker chips as currency. We have monthy socials so the families can get to know one another and build a foundation of trust with one another's children. You must live in Silver Spring to join and you cannot have a gun in your home. All sit requests are posted to a members-only listserve, but responses go straight back to the poster, so you decide who you will entrust your children to. We're starting our annual cycle, and we have some membership openings.

The best candidates for membership have time to sit (so if you or your spouse travel a lot, it's probably not a great choice for you), a desire to
go out, and few local friends/relatives that can sit for them. We have families with 1 to 3 kids in the coop right now, aged birth to 7 years. Most families live near 4 corners or downtown SS, but members can live anywhere in SS.

The first step in joining the coop is to attend a social so the other families can meet your family. Then we vote (no one's ever been rejected), and you have to pay $12 annual dues for your family, which pays for some of the social expenses and lets us know that you are serious about joining.

The August Social is at North Four Corners Park on Saturday, August 14th, 4-6 pm - 211 Southwood Ave, Silver Spring. Please bring a finger-food snack to share. We'll provide the drinks.

If you are interested in joining, please email me the full contact information for your family and I will pass it on to the current chairs. (Name of all people in your home, kids ages, your address, tels, emails)

Thanks!
Anita Wiler

Sunday at Getty Park

Solomon and I have been missing everyone and since we still can't host on Sundays, I thought I would suggest a get-together at Getty Park. It is supposed to be in the mid-80s, with scattered thunderstorms, so hopefully we can catch the cool am weather before the storms start.

Playgroup on Cody Drive this Sunday

It's been a LONG time since Sebastian and I have hosted and it might be a long time when we can host again...so our house this Sunday!

If it's too hot, we'll play inside. The heat and humidity are hard for me to take these days...

Let me know if you can make it!

Heather

August 16th thru 23rd

Hi Tots and Moms.

Evan and I will be home with Chace from Mon, Aug 16th through Fri, Aug 27th and will be looking for kids to play with and things to do.

If you are around and up for play, let me know. Or if there are activities we should plan to do, fill us in. I know Jessie mentioned an open gym, and of course the fountain in DTSS is always a hit.

Cheers --

Shawn

On our way to the pool

Will be there closer to 4:15, and will likely be in the medium sized pool - the one with all the fountains, etc.

Pool Anyone?

Solomon and I just got back from a long car ride and are contemplating the Glenmont/Wheaton pool at 4 pm as a way to cool off and refresh a bit. Just wanted to know if anyone else is around and might be interested. Will repost if we decide to go for sure.

Joanna

Saturday play date

Hi All! Anyone in town this wkend? My Mom is interested in joining in on tot play this wkend and seeing Evan play with his friends. We are busy Sunday during "regular" tot group. But Sat morning is an option. Getty Park at 10am? Jon and I will be immersed in carpet laying so it will be only JoJo (real name, Terry) and Evan (and maybe Chace).

Ciao.

Shawn

Sorry folks!

I'm not doing a good job with my calendar and forgot that we already scheduled something for this Sunday. If we stay in town over the 4th, I will repost so we can try it again.

This Sunday and An Article re: Praising

Hey all, its been awhile since we've gotten together and I, unfortunately, can't host very much this summer since Solomon is taking a 9 am swim class so there's no time to prep for play group. However, I wanted to suggest we meet up at Getty Park at 10 if any of you will be around.

Also, my sister just sent me the following article re: alternatives to "good job," and over use of praise to reinforce good behavior. I'm not a huge opponent of praise, but I thought the suggested alternatives were a great idea anyway.

The “Good Job!” Trap

Have you ever said “good job!” to a child? Chances are you have. “Good job” is one of the most overused praise phrases in the American culture. I’ve heard caregivers “good job!” a child for just about everything.

“You finished that puzzle – good job!”

“You pooped in the potty chair – good job!”

“You ate your peas – good job!”

“You took a bath – good job!”

“You had a nice nap – good job!”

I’m not exaggerating. “Good job!” has become a reflex phrase.

We don’t just use it to praise a child for a real accomplishment, we use it to verbally reinforce something that we want kids to do. Think about it – it’s not particularly noteworthy when a child eats his vegetables, but you hear “good job!” because the parent wants the child to feel happy and praised so he will eat them again.

There are real consequences to overusing the phrase “good job!” (and similar mindless praise phrases, such as “I like the way you ____”). 1 In short, excessive and meaningless praise can backfire by making children lose interest in activities, by reducing achievement scores, and by creating praise junkies (that is, children become so dependent on our feedback that they become insecure without it). 2

What to Do Instead of Saying “Good Job!”

But even when we know the consequences of mindless praise, it’s easy to fall back on “good job!” when we’re not sure what else to say. We want to express something – pleasure, happiness, pride – but we’re not sure how. Here are a few ideas:

1. Thank You: it’s true – often we say “good job!” when our kids do something to make our lives easier. So why not just say that?
“Thank you for picking up your toys. It really helps mama when you clean up your things.”
“Thank you for wiping up that spill. Now I can start dinner on a clean counter.”
“Thank you for playing quietly while I was on the phone. I could hear the other person clearly and was able to get off the phone quickly.”

2. Observe Rather than Evaluate: look at your child’s accomplishments as a chance to have a conversation with him. “Your tower has more red blocks than blue blocks.” Maybe your child will tell you why or will share that her favorite color is red. “You used markers and chalk in that drawing.” Maybe your child will tell you what the drawing is about.

3. Keep Playing: so your 3 year old just built a tall tower out of blocks. Instead of good job’ing her, ask her what she’s going to do with the tower. “That’s a tall tower, who lives there?” Or start building a tower of your own, maybe she will engage you in creative play. Playtime is a great way to connect on your child’s terms, so follow her lead – don’t just use it as an opportunity to praise her, that may stifle whatever she was trying to do with her playtime.

4. Nurture Empathy: instead of “I like the way you shared with Tim!” or “Good job for giving Katie a hug!”, use positive social interactions as an opportunity to nurture your child’s empathy skills. “[G]ently draw his attention to the effect of his action on the other person: ‘Look at Abigail’s face! She seems pretty happy now that you gave her some of your snack.’ This is completely different from praise, where the emphasis is on how you feel about her sharing.” 3 Empathy is the foundation for many vital skills and positive attitudes. It is necessary for healthy social interactions and relationships, it leads to creativity, it increases academic achievement, it reduces prejudice, and it is the root of a strong sense of environmentalism. 4

5. Focus on the Action: instead of focusing on the result, talk about the action without adding any judgment. 5 “You’ve been working very hard on that painting.” “You really practiced a lot on that song!”

6. Ask Questions: take an active interest in whatever your child is doing by asking them about it. “How many blocks did you use to build that tower?” “What do you want to build next?” “Why did you decide to paint his beard purple?”

7. Stay silent: Remember that it’s often the case that we want to praise, our kids don’t really need to hear it. Your child does not expect to be praised all the time – our urge to praise has been hammered into our brains. You might be amazed when your child keeps on building block towers even when you sit back and say nothing at all.

It can be tough to break the “good job!” habit – I know, I was a preschool teacher who used it all the time. But the rewards are worth it.

Do you have any tips for breaking the “good job!” habit? What do you do instead of mindlessly praising your children?

Evan"s tot pool

Evan and I are enjoying his tot pool. Shaded yard. Feel free to come by this morning. 1706 Wdman 202 415 4016. Shawn

Next Sunday at Sollo's

We haven't been around recently and haven't hosted in awhile, so count on us for next Sunday, June 6th.

Hope you're all enjoying the long weekend.

Getty park - 10am Sunday

Good morning tot group. Evan and I are headed over to Getty Park around 10am today as we need to keep him out of the way as debris from our basement is taken out thru the backyd this AM.

If anyone is heading to the park too, we will see you there.

I expect we will play and eat an early picnic lunch there.

Shawn 202 415 4016

Shoes/Glenwood Pool

Hi everyone, we are getting ready for a wedding, and was wondering if anyone has toddler shoes size 7.5 or 8 wide in black or brown that they are looking to unload or sell. All we have is a pair of sneakers, and I don't necessarily want to buy new shoes just for a wedding. We also need to buy him new sandals and sneakers, so if you have an older boy with wide feet, I'd be happy to buy your gently used shoes.

By the way, StrideRite has a 25 percent off total purchase coupon for this weekend...
http://www.striderite.com/text/email/20100519FAF/social25OFF.html

On an unrelated note, is anyone a member of Glenwood pool? We just joined.


Sheila

Sunday at our place

Hi all,
I think the last time we hosted there was snow on the ground. Let's hope for good weather so we can be outside.
Michelle

New Play Group family

Thank you to Cristina for introducing us to Peter, Adela and their son Manuel who live on Tilton and Forest Grove. Hope to see you all at an upcoming tot play group get together. They are usually held from 10am-ish to 12 noonish either at someone's house or at one of the parks. The ages of the core group of tots -- pretty much all boys at this point -- is between 2-1/4 to almost 3 y.o. And the next generation of 8 months old and younger siblings have joined in as well.

Keep an eye out for an email on this week's play group location and take care.

Shawn

Big Favor

Hey All! As some of you know, I am leaving Harry alone with the boys from tomorrow through next Sunday. He will have extra help off and on, but I was hoping that I could suggest he drop Solomon at play group one or both of the Sundays, if he wanted a break. I assume that with the number of moms around, one mom-less toddler would probably be manageable. I have no idea if he'll take me up on the offer, but I wanted to make it. If this is okay, I will let him know that it's at Shawn's this weekend and if you all could email him directly re: next weekend, that would be great. hschwirck@yahoo.com

Thanks so much and I'll see you all in three Sundays!

Sunday Tot Group: Our house on 5/16

Hi All. Michele and I had agreed our turns were up for hosting. I think I told her I would host 5/23 but since our basement will likely be under some renovation (yay!) at that time, I decided to jump in and offer to host *this* Sunday, 5/16 at our normal time 10ish.

Hopefully the weather will be nice and we can play in the backyard. If not, we'll congregate in the basement for one last playdate in the "before" basement. =)

Hope to see all of you.

And, Cristina, hope you are now getting the posts.

Shawn

hair cut recommendations

Despite my intent to get to Solomon's 3rd birthday without a haircut, I have realized that this would be cruel to my very sweat-prone little boy. The poor kid's hair was soaking wet all weekend. So, I think we need to just take the plunge and do a short, summer cut. Any recommendations for a hairdresser?

Farewell to Interactions

Just got this from Interactions Learn and Play. Sad to see a small business geared to tots go out of business. I plan to take Evan at least once more before they close. Maybe a play date there some rainy Sat in May??

--------------------
To our loyal customers:

We would like to inform you that Interactions Learn & Play will be closing May 31st. The owners are now expecting a new baby and can no longer dedicate the time and effort necessary to run the business. The owners are currently searching for potential buyers. If you have passes please use your visits before May’s end. Thank you so much for visiting.

Thank you for your patronage! You will be missed greatly. Thank you for all your support and making this a great experience.

Best regards,

Werner & Christina Melgar
Interactions Learn & Play
3809 Farragut Avenue
Kensington , MD 20895
301.946.1010
www.interactionslearnandplay.net

Dan Zanes at Strathmore - we got tickets!

Special Offer for Dan Zanes at Strathmore

Posted by: "jenjeremyb" jenbuzzell@gmail.com jenjeremyb

Wed Apr 28, 2010 7:13 am (PDT)

Hi All - Don't know if you heard but family music fave Dan Zanes & Friends are doing two shows Sunday at Strathmore. Here is a $5 off per ticket offer below (sorry, not valid on previously purchased tickets)

Bring the kids and grandkids to Strathmore for a concert featuring the WPAS Children of the Gospel Choir with Dan Zanes & Friends, performing soulful tunes drawn from American gospel traditions from Zanes' critically acclaimed album, The Welcome Table: Songs of Inspiration, Mystery and Good Times and selections from the newest album, 76 Trombones, a collection of Broadway standards including "Hello, Dolly," "I Won't Grow Up," and "I'm Flying." Two performances only! Sunday May 2, 2010 at 1pm and 4pm.

HOW TO ORDER
3 Easy Steps
1. Log into www.strathmore.org or create a new account here herehttp://www.strathmore.org/account/signin.asp using SOURCE CODE 1406.
2. You will be taken to the calendar. Choose the Dan Zanes & Friends performance of your choice. Prices will reflect a discount of $5 off per ticket.
3. Select your preferred seating section, and check out!
You can also contact the Strathmore Ticket Office by calling (301) 581-5100 or visiting in person at 5301 Tuckerman Lane, North Bethesda, Maryland.

this sunday - 4/18 - 10 ish - gunnar's house!

we would love to see everyone, and it's been a while since we hosted. new to the 1613 brisbane location: SWING SET!!!!

Happy Spring / Passover / Easter! This Sunday -- park?

Hi All. I propose to meet at Getty Park on Sunday for tot group. Same time - 10am. I realize many may be out of town or with family/friends that wkend/day. If you can make it, great! We'll be the ones basking in the sun and laughing at the fun.

This Morning at 11

Solomon and I are going to the Chevy Chase Library (right on Conn off EW Hwy) to see the DC Chinese Youth Club do their Chinese Lion Dance. Just thought I'd let you all know in case anyone is interested - its free and different from what we usually do.

And, if anyone has any good recs for books re: dealing with toddler craziness, I would greatly appreciate it. My little angel has been such a monster of late! He had a complete meltdown last night because I took his shirt off before he was ready. Poor little guy, he was really upset about it.

First Post from Sheila and Theo

First off, thanks for inviting me and Theo to participate in the group. It's always good to meet more moms and kids in the neighborhood! I included a picture of him in what must certainly be a very familiar location for all of you.

Second, I wanted to pass on information about this free event tonight. I won't likely make it but my husband might attend. It seems geared towards kids a little older than ours, but the topic seems all-too relevant! See below for details:

cheers,
Sheila and Theo


Silver Spring Day School’s Parent Education Series presents:
Positive Discipline for Preschoolers

Sydney Frymire, LCSW-C &
Rebecca Whitmore, LGSW, M.Ed.
Parenting Coaches and Consultants

Thursday, March 25, 2010
SSDS University Campus, 801 University Blvd. West. Silver Spring
Babysitting Available (must register for babysitting in advance)
7:00 to 8:30 pm

Preschool children bring joy, energy, and challenges to every family.
Join us for a dynamic discussion about parenting your preschooler and
supporting a strong relationship with your child. Explore positive
discipline approaches including constructive ways to listen to and
talk with your child. Develop new strategies to build structure,
notice good behavior, teach new skills, and set limits when needed.
Speakers will present information from the Center on the Social and
Emotional Foundations for Early Learning (CSEFEL), a national resource
center promoting the social emotional development and school readiness
of young children.
Attendance:
Attendance is Free
Registration for attendance is not required.
Babysitting:
Registration for babysitting required by Monday, March 22, 2010
To register for babysitting, contact HYPERLINK "mailto:mvassepdx@gmail.com" mvassepdx@gmail.com
Costs: SSDS Families: $10.00 up to 2 children
Non SSDS Families: $15.00 up to 2 children

Sydney Frymire is a licensed clinical social worker, parenting coach,
consultant, and speaker. Ms. Frymire has worked in private practice
and community mental health clinics in Montgomery County for 21
years. Rebecca Whitmore is also a clinical social worker with an
extensive background in early childhood and special education. Both
speakers have vast experience working with children and families.
They specialize in helping parents and teachers build on positives and
manage a child’s challenging behavior to encourage success at home and
at school. They currently work in a group practice, Positive
Development for Your Child, in Bethesda, MD.

Sunday at Sebastian's

I think we are long overdue to host! We'll have to play the weather by ear...doesn't look like it'll be as nice as last weekend.

1703 Cody Drive

See you then.

Heather & Sebastian

No More Parallel Play for Our Boys

Here are some great shots from Sunday. Great to see you all!

response to Joanna's post/ how add people to blob

Hi everyone,
I did a new post so everyone would get my response to Joanna's e-mail. I love the idea of a system for last minute play dates. I guess the high-tech method is texting or, for folks with blackberries, e-mail. I personally am a bit of a luddite, so neither of those methods really works for me.

One of my friends lived in a community where a yellow ribbon on the door meant the kids were available for play. Also, if anyone is ever out for walk, feel free to come by our place and take a look to see if we're out in the back yard -- if we're outside playing, we'd be happy to have someone stop by, whether it's for 10 minutes or an hour.

Other question: does anyone know how to add Sheila to this blog so she gets the e-mails?
Michelle

Come play in King Solomon's castle

If we have it set up by Sunday... Our neighbor is giving us their old outdoor play castle so I thought this would be a good weekend to inaugurate it. Its supposed to be warm, but with a possibility of showers, so we can play the outdoor part by ear.

Solomon has been missing his friends. He went next door to Ben's house last week and said, "my other friends are coming soon?" When I told him it was just Ben, he said, "Evan's not coming?"

So, hopefully we will see some of you on Sunday. If not, we'll surely be at a playground on Saturday, since its supposed to be beautiful.

On a somewhat related note, I was thinking it would be nice to have some type of system by which we can alert each other of our availability for a last minute play date. Both days this weekend, after naptime, Solomon was cranky and just wanted to be out of the house. So, we went for walks in the rain. I kept thinking that it would have been nice to stop in at someone's house, but since I'm not a fan of unannounced drop-ins, I assumed others weren't as well. If anyone has any ideas (a ribbon on the door or something higher-tech) let me know.

Maryland Science Center

Have any of you been? I just looked at their website for the first time and it looks awesome. Its pricey, but the kids get in free until they are 3, so its a bit more reasonable for the next several months. If we make it up there, I'll report back.

www.marylandsciencecenter.org

Used Formal Dresses

I responded to the woman's post on our neighborhood listserve re: donating used formal dresses. She is coming to my house tomorrow (Wed) night to pick up a dress or two that I have, so I thought I'd survey this group to see if any of you have dresses you'd like to drop off at my place to save this woman the trouble of driving all around. It sounds like the dresses are donated to an organization that provides "gently used" prom dresses to girls in D.C. - pretty cool idea. Let me know and you can just leave them on my porch today or tomorrow - I could also push the pick up back a day or so if folks need more time.

Playgroup at our place/ Add new member to the group?

Hi all,
Ryan and I would like to host this Sunday (posting early -- before I forget).

Also, there's another mom in the hood who'd be interested in joining us. Her name is Sheila, and she has a son, Theo. Her son is younger than our boys, I think she said he's about eighteen months now. I first met Sheila when she bought an acid-reflux pillow from me when I was clearing out infant stuff. I've run into her every now and then, and what seemed like a huge gap between our kids' ages (Ryan was 8 months old, her son was a newborn), has kind of disappeared!
Michelle

Need to Rescind the Invitation

Poor Solomon has been in bed all day with some unknown ailment, probably a virus of sorts. Poor little guy, he has cold symptoms and an off and on slight fever, but something must be making him feel terrible because all he wants to do is lay down. We suspect he's probably nauseated - according my my pediatrician sister in law, a virus causing nausea is going around. In any case, even if he makes a miraculous recovery, who knows what germs are lurking about our house, so we probably shouldn't host.

Sorry!

BTW - any tips for getting fluids into a little one who absolutely won't drink? I'm about to see if he'll let me shoot a little water into his mouth with a syringe.

This Sunday At Sollo's

Solomon and I are staying in town this weekend after our trip to NJ was cancelled due to the snow up there. So, please come hang with us if you are around.

Sunday, Feb. 21

Seth and I feel off...we haven't seen everyone in a while. So we'd be happy to host this Sunday. 10ish at 1606 Brisbane. I guess I'll clean the house!

FYI Re: Playseum and Religion

I knew the Playseum had a religious bent from the statements on their website, but I was impressed by how subtly they incorporated it into the exhibits when I was there and found the owner, who I chatted with for awhile, quite pleasant and religion didn't come up at all. However, I was glad to know the more negative stuff that folks circulated on DC Urban Mom's, so I thought I'd pass the link to the discussion along. Of course, it is typical DC Urban Moms - very inflammatory and annoying. I hate that forum sometimes!

Looks like there was some discussion about this on the DC Urban Moms list: http://www.dcurbanmom.com/jforum/posts/list/84403.page(PLAYSEUM Bethesda - religious slant). Beth

Solomon's in His BBB Too!

We also moved Solomon this weekend - half to try to solve his terrible sleeping habits of late, half because we realized our crib had been recalled almost a year ago! He loves it and is doing really well so far. First night we had the same nonsense as the previous week (up once in the middle of the night and an early morning waking for good). Second two nights we had 11 hrs of sleep a night! However, I think that was due to little or no napping on both days. Perhaps the no napping leading to 11 hrs indicates that my little one really only needs 11 hrs total a day (last month he's been sleeping 9 to 9 1/2 hrs at night and taking 2 hr naps). However, he had his first real tantrum last night, so I'm thinking the boy really does need his naps. Maybe we need to keep them to 1 hr or something. WHO KNOWS!!! I just love the fact that the BBB means I was able to move the chair from his room into the livingroom and some of his toys from the livingroom into his room. And, I love cuddling with him in his own bed.

Big Boy Bed

To ease in the transition of "new" things coming down the pike in the next 5 months, we've decided it was time to upgrade Evan to a big boy bed. Not yet a twin, but a toddler bed that his crib mattress fits on, is very low to the ground and has a guard rail. We took out the rocker (or should I call it the squeaker) and kept his crib in the room for the first 2 nights just in case he wanted it. I may take it out tonight but keep assembled in the office.

So far, so good. We have stayed in the room both nights until he's asleep laying on the floor with the light off. I think it helps that he is comfortable sleeping on a cot at daycare. We explained that like his big boy cot, this is a big boy bed.

In these first 2 days, he has yet to wake up in the night, which is usually a 50-50 proposition. We have a toddler-proof handle on his bdrm door so even if he gets up, he still can't wander far from his bed. We will get him a night light so that it is not too dark in there if he does get up.

Again, to minimize disruptions when the little one comes, we are considering keeping Evan in his room and not moving him to the bigger room (currently my office) but haven't decided yet. The office is 1.5 times bigger which would allow for play space in his room.

Friends / fam have said to hold off until the last possible moment for a big boy bed or a room change. But, the more time to adjust to changes before there is a new one in the house seems to make more sense.

Just thought I would share our current thinking as I know there were a few of us discussing big boy beds and transitions recently.

Solomon is still sleeping!

In case anyone was planning to try Interactions, we may not make it. I'll still do it if we can get there by 4:30, but it may not happen. Sorry!

Interactions this Afternoon

Solomon is really needing to run around and Interactions was closed this morning (fyi, running up & down the stacks at the Library is a GREAT substitute). However, they are open this afternoon from 2:30 - 5:30. Assuming Solomon doesn't take an insanely long nap, we will aim to be there by 4 if anyone wants to join us.

TODAY: Michelle's or Joanna's?

For clarification, who is hosting: Michelle or Joanna? I saw both posted offering to host. Jon, Evan and I are sitting here with our noses pressed against the window staring at the white out. Should Jon and Evan dare to venture out, they want to ensure they show up at the right place. =)

Ciao.

And, any pictures of Kurt?

I'd love to see our newest member!

Happy to Host Tomorrow

Assuming people want to come out in the snow (which may still be falling), we are happy to host tomorrow morning. I'm not sure what fixin's we have around, but we can scrounge something up.

Where are Seth and Emily?

I know that Jessie had a fantastic reason not to be around this wkend. Where are Seth and Emily? I am hoping that Seth, Emily and Adil are somewhere warm and exotic. =)

Add another boy to the playgroup!

I went for a sonogram today and by chance was able to take a peek at the goods.

It's a BOY!

I got a new due date too because he measures big - August 8th.

~Heather

anyone interested in getting together on Wed?

Hi all,
I'm assuming the government will be closed yet again tomorrow -- if we really do get 10 inches of snow like they're predicting. We've been keeping busy as best we can -- yesterday was a trip to Target, this morning was Interactions (the poor owner was digging out the parking lot by himself with a shovel). But if we're homebound tomorrow -- yikes. I'm happy to have people over or go to someone's house. Any takers?
Michelle

anyone want to come over tomorrow, Monday the 8th?

Hi everyone,
did anyone make it to tot group today? We were busy trying to stay warm and digging out the car in preparation for going to someplace with heat -- so happy the power came back on! We're around tomorrow since the gov't is closed -- anyone want to come over around 10?
Michelle

Sunday 2/7: Hot cocoa and tot group at our house

As a reminder, Evan is eager to host totgroup for all those who are brave enough to venture out. And, other than Jessie who has a great excuse (her due date is Sat 2/6), I have to bet money that most everyone will be around on Sun... I mean come on, will we get plowed out any sooner than NEXT wkend?

So, come on over on Sunday -- 10am ish. We will downstairs which is always a bit colder, so do layer although we will have the space heaters.

If you lose power, feel free to call my cell to see if we have too. I hope not. That will make for a long wkend.

Shawn
202 415 4016

Sunday at our place

Hi all,
We're healthy -- hopefully we'll stay that way for this Sunday. The usual time. If you think you can make it, please shoot me an e-mail.
Michelle (and Ryan)

This seemed important to share.

I always love a good experiment!
http://www.slate.com/id/2242199/

Emily

Free Parenting Webinar Tonight

In case any of you are interested in a free webinar on alternative discipline - for some reason blog spot won't let me paste in the text of the announcement, but its called, "Why Time Outs are a Waste of Time." Its at 9 pm tonight and the link to register is: http://bit.ly/6td93e

It purports to challenge discipline techniques like Time Outs, Counting 1-2-3, and Rewards, and offers alternative suggestions.

Halwani House this Sunday

Sebastian and I would love to host the playgroup this Sunday.

Usual time, 10am.

Kids Theater

In the spirit of entertaining our little ones, the Gazette had an article on kids theater...Bethesda Imagination Stage targets those as young as 2. The article also featured Glen Echo park performances.

We are thinking of taking Sebastian to the next show at Imagination Stage Wake Up, Brother Bear! this Saturday.
This new, experiential theatre piece developed and produced by Imagination Stage, is an intimate introduction to live theatre for children ages 2-5 years and their teachers or caregivers. The audience is invited into the world of Brother and Sister Bear as they discover the seasons of the year. Children may join in the action throughout the show. Themes of the cycle of the seasons and the dreams that we pursue from day to day and year to year underpin the story which is funny at times but also reflective, gentle and a delightful exploration for young imaginations. Performances run 40 minutes.

January 23, 27-30 & February 6 at 10:30 and 11:45 AM
January 26, February 2-5 at 10:30 AM
Tickets: $7

They have the whole year of shows listed: http://www.imaginationstage.org/shows-a-tickets/0910-season#storytheatre

GKV: today at 11am!

Hi all,

This wkend, Evan, Jon and I have done an "indoor playground" adventure, hitting all the major playspots... or most of them. We did Port Discovery Friday night ($2/person family fun night the 3rd Fri of every month), Playseum on Sat ($5/person), Great Kids Village in Downtown SS yesterday (currently $6 per child as a grand opening special), and are headed to GKV in Columbia today.

PD was packed, but we still had fun... esp. in the water room.

Playseum is a fave as it has the "pet store" with real animals (mostly bunnies) that Evan loves to hold.

GKV in SS is 3500 sq ft, open, light, airy... but got crowded quickly. We liked it and will likely go back as it has enough space to actually run around which most of the others do not.

Looking fwd to GKV in Columbia as it is 24,000(!) square feet and hopefully means lots more to do and see and enjoy.

SOO... we are heading there at 11am today (they are opening early today) for fun and lunch and then back in the nhood for hopefully some time in the park in the late afternoon. (Evan will likely nap from 2-3p today).

If you are interested, join us. Cost for the GKV is a bit more than its new counterpart in SS, but still reasonable. Check out www.greatkidsvillage.com for directions.

Ciao.
Shawn and Evan (202 415 4016 cell)

tomorrow morning @ Solomon's House

If folks are in town for the long weekend, we'd love to host tomorrow morning. If you can let me know if you think you're coming, that would be great.

Thanks!

Dalya Heifetz Lippmann

Sorry for the delay in officially telling you all about Judah's little sister. She arrived early Friday morning and while she came out tiny (5.8) she's totally healthy and in my opinion, very beautiful. Evidently Judah loves his baby sister and is handling the newcomer quite well.

Here is a photo from Friday.

PlayWiseKids

A co-worker told me about an indoor Play Village in Columbia, MD (he promises it only takes 15 minutes non-rush hour). Perks for parents include a Cafe, game room (think foosball), and he even mentioned chair massages!

6570 Dobbin Road Columbia, Maryland 21045
Phone: (410) 497-PLAY
http://www.playwisekids.com/exhibits.htm


Some of PlayWiseKids hands-on exhibits include:

A real Fire truck that children can pretend to drive and firefighter uniforms for dress-up. Medieval Castle with a ball pit. Train room with loads of wooden tracks and trains! Toddler Areas with slides, tunnels, dinos to climb on, manipulatives, and other age appropriate activities. Our child-sized Grocery Store complete with shopping carts, fruits, vegetables and other food packages. An Arts & Crafts area for coloring and creating masterpieces! Playhouse with a kitchen, a flower garden, and a table for pretend picnics! Dress-up areas for dramatic play where children can put on dresses, military uniforms, animal costumes and even tap shoes!!! Oversized sandbox representing the Chesapeake Bay stocked with sand pails, shovels, and sand wheels. Giant Block Room with over-sized tinker toys and legos. A jeep to drive with a slide in the back!

Children (2 to 10 yrs old): $9.95
Toddlers (12 – 23 months): $6.95
Adults (11 yrs and older): $4.00
Babies (11 months and younger): FREE

Monday through Friday: 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Saturday: 9:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Sunday: 11:30 a.m. to 6:00 p.m.

Sunday, January 10

Hello All,

It was fun to see some of you at Solomon's b-day party today. Seth and I would be happy to host tomorrow morning, Sunday, January 10. 10-ish to noon-ish. 1606 Brisbane.

Have a lovely day!
Emily

Playseum -- RIGHT NOW (well 930am)

Evan and I, and maybe Jon, are headed to the Playseum this morning. Evan is SCREAMING his head off, so we thought a new place would be good where they DON'T know us. =)

If you are interested, join us... we hope to be there when they open at 930a. 7000 Wisc Ave. Lower level. http://www.playseum.com/Directions.aspx. $5/person and they take Visa, MC, Discover.

Haven't been before, but looking forward to finding another play area. 202 415 4016

New Year of Playgroup!

Hi everyone, we are back in town and would love to host playgroup this weekend if anyone is around. Sunday, 10am.

Heather and Sebastian
1703 Cody Drive