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This Week's Best Kid Friendly Events


September was a whirlwind, but now that we are back into a routine, October should be filled with fun. Cooler weather is in the air so enjoy this precious fall weather and these great family events:

  • Celebrate the Grand Opening of the new Children's Museum of the Arts with at the Block Party on Saturday and special events all weekend long.
  • On Sunday you can rock with kid's music legend Dan Zanes at the NYU Skirball Center. This is a great opportunity to hear Zanes perform some of the songs from his new CD Little Nut Tree. This performance is the first in the Big Red Chair Family Series - the next show in the series is Treasured Stories by Eric Carle, Oct 14-16!
  • If you are a new or expecting parent, the New Families, New Traditions series begins this Sunday at the Museum of Jewish Heritage with Bedtime Blues.  The experts from Dream Team Baby will share some tips for getting your baby or toddler to sleep.
  • Looking for a fall adventure: Friday is the last day to see Zoofari before Boo at the Zoo takes over this weekend at the Bronx Zoo. There are many options for great pumpkin and apple picking not far from the city, including the Queens County Farm Museum which is hosting its Apple Festival on Sunday (11am-4pm) -- the Pumpkin Patch and Corn Maze are open Saturdays and Sundays through October 30th plus Monday Oct 10th.
  • Giveaways: Kids cannot get enough of Yo Gabba Gabba! so tickets are selling fast for their Live! show which is coming to NYC for only one weekend in October.  Enter to win tickets to one of these popular show!  
  • Mom's Night Out Suggestion: Celebrate being a Mother!  Plan a Mom's Night Out at Primary Stages' Motherhood Out Loud, a touching and funny performance going on until the end of October.  Use discount code BWWMOM to received $5 off!

Have a great week!

~Jessica

 


Yo Gabba Gabba! Live! is Coming to NYC Oct 14-16!


GIVEAWAY: 4 Tickets to the 11 AM Show on Sunday

Yo Gabba Gabba! Live!: Its time to Dance is coming to the Beacon Theater Oct 14-16! 

On the heels of receiving two Daytime Emmy nominations and a season 4 pick up from Nickelodeon, Yo Gabba Gabba! announced they will rock the preschool and young adult fans this fall with a live show experience like no other.

YO GABBA GABBA! LIVE!: It’s Time to Dance! Presented by Kia Motors promises to be a memorable experience, featuring a mix of classic Yo Gabba Gabba! favorites, as well as new songs and ...


Change for Kids: Helping NYC Public Schools


Get Involved by Bowling for Kids, Donating Money or Giving Your Time!

Change for Kids is a remarkable organization founded 15 years ago to help under-resourced elementary schools in NYC.  They work with teachers, administrators and parents to create a more stable learning environment and develop new educational programs to encourage participation and enthusiasm within the classroom.  

Since having children I have found that the amount of time I can dedicate to volunteering has decreased significantly and it is something I miss doing. Donating money is always an options, but it is important to me that my children understand why they should ...


'MOM, Incorporated' Book Tour


Are you a Mom with your own business or thinking of starting your own business?

Join entrepreneurs and authors Aliza Sherman and Danielle Smith to learn more about their experiences starting successful businesses and why having kids doesn't mean you have to abandon your entrepreneurial aspirations.  Aliza is the founder of Cybergrrl, Inc, Webgrrls International and Mediaegg and the auther of seven books. She was recently included on  Forbes.com's Top 20 Women for Entrepreneurs to Follow.  Danielle is a former award-winning news anchor and reporter and the founder of ExtraordinaryMommy.com. Danielle is also a mom of two.

They teamed up to ...


OXO Supports Cookies for Kids Cancer


Learn How You Can Too!

OXO is one of my favorite housewares brands so I was excited to hear that they teamed up with Cookies for Kids’ Cancer, a national non-profit dedicated to funding new treatments for pediatric cancer. This year they will donate up to $100,000 to research.

OXO has some great ways for everyone (individuals, schools & communities, retailers and even corporations) to get invovled! Find out how you can be a good cookie and help fight pediatric cancer, with detailed information available on the Good Cookies site and Facebook page.


Ways You ...


This Week's Picks:


October 1st through October 2nd

Saturday, October 1 - FamilyDay@theCenter - Archtober!

Join the Center for Architecture Foundation at this free family event, celebrating the beginning of Archtober, a month-long festival of architecture activities, programs and exhibitions in New York City. Families are invited to drop in and create an architectural centerpiece to be displayed at our annual fundraising event, Heritage Ball -- a unique opportunity to have your designs admired by the city’s top design professionals! Participants can also catch a sneak preview of Building Connections 2011, our new exhibition of K - 12th grade student work.
Where: Center for Architecture Foundation, 536 LaGuardia Place (between Bleecker and West 3rd St)
When: 10:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Who: Ages 5-13
Cost: Free

Saturday, October 1 - New Museum First Saturdays for Families: "Interstellar"

Come to the New Museum for one of the last opportunities to see “Ostalgia,” a landmark exhibition that brings together the work of more than 50 artists from 20 countries across Eastern Europe and the former Soviet Republics. Explore the artwork of Julius Koller and Stano Filko, two Slovakian artists who wondered what it would be like to travel to outer space. They created model UFOs, space masks, maps, as well as advertisements for future space travel—all to help them understand the Space Race, the Cold War, and the idealized new world that nterstellar travel offered. After exploring the artwork, chat with some of our docents about space travel, utopias, and science fiction then create your own cosmic travel poster.
Where: New Museum, 235 Bowery
When: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: Ages 4-15
How: First come, first served. Your entire party must be present.
Cost: Free for up to two adults per family

Saturday, October 1 - Children's Museum Of The Arts Block Party

CMA has moved to its new location at 103 Charlton Street and they will be celebrating the Grand Opening all weekend with a Free Block Party.  There will be music, art workshops and more!
Where: Children's Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St
When: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Who: All Ages
How: Just Show Up
Cost: Free
For more info: http://cmany.org

Saturday, October 1 - Family Day: Fantastic Journey at the Rubin Museum of Art

Let's go on an adventure! See new sights and scale new heights! During this day packed with activities, listen to tales from far and wide and take part in the story of an incredible trek, use a map to find secrets hidden at the museum, and make your own map for other visitors to follow. Hear the sounds of instruments from around the world and try your hand at playing one. Visit a spice market to mix up your own incense and mold it into cones, make a pressed clay tsa-tsa, and wrap a lucky talisman in colorful threads to protect you on future adventures.
Where: Rubin Museum of Art, 150 W. 17th Street (between 6th & 7th Aves)
When: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Who: All Ages
How: Just Show Up
Cost: $10 ($5 for members)
For more info: www.rmanyc.org or (212) 620-5000

Saturday, October 1 - "Visit with Live Animals! " at The Scholastic Store

A fearless fur and feather escape! Join us for a reading of the new book The Pet Shop Revolution - the courageous story of a little girl who rescues pets from a mean pet shop owner! Following the story see live animals from The Art Farm!
Where: Scholastic Store - SoHo, 557 Broadway (Between Prince & Spring Streets)
When: 3:00 PM
Who: Ages 2-8
How: Just show Up
Cost: Free

Sunday, October 2 - Dan Zanes and Friends Celebrate the Start of the New Big Red Chair Season! at Skirball

Dan Zanes and Friends perform exuberant, handmade "21st century social music" for enthusiastic crowds of kids and kids-at-heart. Filled with irresistible grooves drawn from a wealth of musical traditions, Zanes, his Brooklyn based band and his surprising and eclectic special guests, create an interactive experience where people of all ages sing and dance with wild abandon. It's a big musical party and everyone's invited!
Where: NYU Skirball Center for the Performing Arts, 566 LaGuardia Place at Washington Square
When: 3:00 PM
Who: All Ages
Cost: $25

This Week's Calendar:


September 30th through February 13th

Friday, September 30 - Storytimes on Friday

  • Karma Kids at 3:00pm for ages 0-6    
  • McNally Jackson at 4pm for ages 0-2
  • Libraries: 
    • Ottendorfer at 10:30am, ages 0-3
Where:
  • McNally Jackson, 52 Prince Street
  • Karma Kids, 104 W 14th St
  • Click Here for Library Addresses
When: n/a
Who: All Ages
How: Just show up, but please verify the storytime either on the website or by calling since storytimes frequently change.
Cost: Free

Friday, September 30 - Erik Johnson is returning to Torly Kid

Back by popular demand, third-generation silhouette artist Erik Johnson is returning to Torly Kid! Erik's family has been creating these timeless keepsakes for more than six decades. Each portrait is an original work of art, cut freehand just by looking at a person's profile to get an exact likeness. 
 
Where: Torly Kids, 51 Hudson St
When: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Who: All Ages
How: Secure your preferred time slot by calling (212) 406-7440 or emailing us at [email protected] You can also RSVP to the Facebook event here.
Cost: Portraits are $25 and duplicates of the same person are $15 each. (Framing is available)
 

Friday, September 30 - Friday Fun for Everyone at NY Kids Club

Friday Fun for Everyone events are an exciting opportunity for families to come together for a fun, social and enriching experience. Held every other Friday from 3:30-5:30, Friday Fun for Everyone events feature beer, wine, and hors d'oeuvres for adults, and supervised Open Play, special entertainment, and a pizza dinner for children
Where: NY Kids Club, 393 South End Ave. (at Liberty St)
When: 3:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Who: Ages 6 months - 6 years
Cost: One Child: $30; Two Children: $45; Three Children: $60

Friday, September 30 - Pajama Party - "State Fair Fun"

Held every other Friday 6:00-8:00pm, pajama parties are a one-of-a-kind thematic "after hours" celebration for children 2.5 - 6 years and 7 - 12 years featuring gym exploration, art, story, cooking, games, relays, and more. All parties culminate in a disco dance party, and dinner is provided.
Where: NY Kids Club - Battery Park, 393 South End Ave. (at Liberty St)
When: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Who: Ages 2.5 - 8 years
Cost: One Child: $30.00; Two Children: $45.00; Three Children: $60.00

Saturday, October 1 - Storytimes on Saturday

  • Chatham Square Library, 11am for ages 4-8 
Where: Click here for Library Locations
When: n/a
Who: All Ages
How: Just show up, but please verify the storytime either on the website or by calling since storytimes frequently change.
Cost: Free
For more info: NYPL

Saturday, October 1 - Just Kidding at Symphony Space: The Story Pirates

Using stories submitted by children, the Story Pirates create outlandishly funny sketches and mini-musicals that leave kids and their parents howling in the aisles! Whether it's following the adventures of a superhero baby, or reminiscing about disposable rain ponchos at a baseball game, the songs and stories explode with the creative energy that only a child could possess.
Where: Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway at 95th St
When: 11:00 AM (Second show at 2 PM)
Who: All Ages
Cost: ADULTS $20, Members $17 KIDS $13, Members $11

Saturday, October 1 - Storytime with a Visit from Pancake Pig at Barnes & Noble - Tribeca

Please join us for a very special Storytime event as we welcome Pancake Pig. Parents, bring your cameras!
Where: Barnes & Noble, 97 Warren St
When: 11:00 AM
Who: All Ages
How: Just Show Up
Cost: Free

Saturday, October 1 through Sunday, October 2 - NYICFF 2011 - 'Chocolate Underground'

It is the not-too-distant future, and society is run by the Good For You Party, an all-powerful government organization that has outlawed all things sweet and delicious - and most especially chocolate. Gigantic sniffing robots patrol the streets, zeroing in on even the faintest chocolaty scent and sending all sweet-toothed lawbreakers to jail for "re-education" (think Orwell's 1984, but with candy).  Unable to resign themselves to a lifetime of bland, healthy foods, teenage best friends Smudger and Huntly decide to take matters into their own hands and create the Chocolate Underground, a secret club where revolutionaries can indulge in their coveted confections. 
Where: IFC Center, 323 6th Ave
When: 11:00 AM
Who: Ages 7+  (Subtitled)
Cost: $9/child, $13/adult
For more info: http://gkids.tv/

Saturday, October 1 - Storytime at McNally Jackson: Bat Stories

Resident storyteller Yvonne Brooks leads a themed storytime with art projects for kids every Saturday. This Week: This Saturday, we’re making Bat Magic at McNally Jackson.  Kids will transform felt bats into finger puppets and create fantastic paper bats adorned with jewels, sequins, and glitter.  We’ll practice echolocation and teach our colony to soar.  (As for bats, they are not blind, they have five fingers, and young bats are called pups.)  
Where: McNally Jackson, 52 Prince St
When: 11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
Who:  Ages 3 to 8. 
How: Just Show Up
Cost: Free

Saturday, October 1 through Friday, October 7 - Children's Museum of Art Guided Workshops

Try one of the Guided Workshops where children work in small groups with teaching
artists. Visit the CMA website for upcoming workshop themes and age recommendations.  
Where: Children's Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St
When: 12:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Who: Varies based on the workshop
How: No reservations required
Cost: $10 per person for admissions (Admission costs cover all workshops and materials)
For more info: http://cmany.org/ or call (212) 274 - 0986

Saturday, October 1 - Parent's Night Out, Kid's Night In Pajama Party at Playgarden

Join 'Project: Playdate' for their Pajama Party at Playgarden! They have put together a dynamite babysitting team to entertain the children with Games, Food (including pizza from "Pinch and S'Mac"), Crafts, Stories and More in Playgarden's incredible indoor playspace! 'Project: Playdate' is an organization dedicated to ending Teenage Homelessness.  100% of the proceeds benefit Powerhouse, a transitional living facility for homeless teen mothers.   
Where: Playgarden, 95 Franklin St, New York, NY 10012
When: 5:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Who: Ages 2-7
How: Email Caitin Tucker at [email protected]
Cost: $40 for 1 child, $70 for 2 children, $100 for 3 children

Sunday, October 2 - Storytimes on Sunday

Books of Wonder at 12pm for ages 0-7
Where: Books of Wonder, 18 W. 18th St.
When: n/a
Who: All Ages
How: Just show up, but please verify the storytime either on the website or by calling since storytimes frequently change.
Cost: Free
For more info: Books of Wonder

Sunday, October 2 - Enchanted Fairies & Elves

Join Poets House and Battery Park City Parks Conservancy in the tranquil setting of Tear Drop Park to hear enchanting tails of fairies.  Learn incantations to call the fairies that protect nature as well as make fairy houses and wings from natural materials.
Where: Tear Drop Park (Between Warren Street and Murray Street, east of River Terrace)  
When: 11:00 AM
Who: All Ages
How: Just Show Up
Cost: Free
For more info: http://poetshouse.org

Sunday, October 2 - Free Breastfeeding Support Meetings at Playgarden

La Leche League Support Meetings led by Leaigh Ann O'Connor and Co-Sponsored by HRP Mamas. A continuing series of informal discussion meetings are offered and are open to all women interested in breastfeeding. Children of all ages are welcome.
  • 1st Meeting: Advantages of breastfeeding (January/May/September)
  • 2nd Meeting: The birth of your baby and baby's first weeks (February/June/October)
  • 3rd Meeting: The art of breastfeeding and dealing with difficulties (March/July/November)
  • 4th Meeting: Breastfeeding and beyond: Solid foods & weaning (April/Aug/December)
Where: Playgarden, 95 Franklin St between Church and Broadway
When: 12:30 PM (First Friday of each Month)
Who: All women interested in breastfeeding. Children of all ages are welcome.
How: Just Show Up
Cost: Free
For more info: http://www.playgardennyc.com/; If you have any questions please email Leigh Anne O'Connor at [email protected] or HRP Mamas at [email protected] 

Monday, October 3 - Storytimes on Monday

  • Libraries:
    • Jefferson Market at 11am, ages 18-24 months 
    • Hudson Park Library at 11:15, ages 1.5-3
    • Ottendorfer at 11:30 & 1:30, ages 0-1.5 (REGISTRATION REQUIRED)
    • Battery Park City at 4pm, ages 3-5
    • Seward Park at 2pm, ages 3-5
    • New Amsterdam at 4pm, ages 5-12
    • Tompkins Square at 4pm, ages 3-8
Where: Click here for Library Locations
When: n/a
Who: All ages
How: Just show up, but please verify the storytime either on the website or by calling since storytimes frequently change.
Cost: Free
For more info: NYPL

Monday, October 3 through Friday, October 7 - Daily Screenings at the National Museum of the American Indian

  • Nodin/Wind 
  • Two Worlds Inside Out 
  • My Name is Kobe 
  • Run Red Walk: A Navajo Sheepdog
Where: National Museum of the American Indian, One Bowling Green
When: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Who: All Ages
How: Just Show Up
Cost: Free
For more info: http://www.nmai.si.edu

Monday, October 3 - 'Happy Birthday to Harold and the Purple Crayon' at Ottendorfer Library

Do you like birthdays? Crockett Johnson author of Harold and the Purple Crayon is having a Birthday. Join us as we celebrate this beloved author's birthday!
Where: Ottendorfer Library, 135 2nd Ave
When: 3:30 PM - 4:30 PM
Who: Ages 18-36 months
How: Just Show Up
Cost: Free
For more info: http://www.nypl.org

Monday, October 3 - Scavenger Hunt at Hamilton Fish Park Library

Fun, hands on event!
Where: Hamilton Fish Park Library, 5 East Houston Street
When: 4:00 PM
Who: Ages 4-11
How: First Come, First Served
Cost: Free
For more info: http://www.nypl.org/

Monday, October 3 - Kitchen Play Dates at Taste Buds

A Play Date in Our Kitchen with your favorite adult. Choose from three unique lip-smacking cooking adventures.  Bring your family and friends to this hands-on, do-it-yourself experience. Our kitchen is your culinary playground!
Where: Taste Buds, 109 W 27th St, 10th floor (btw 6th & 7th Aves)
When: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Who: Ages 2-8
How: Just Show Up -- stay a half hour or the entire time!
Cost: $20

Tuesday, October 4 - Storytimes on Tuesday

  • Scholastic at 11am, all ages
  • Barnes & Noble at 11am, all ages
  • giggle at 4pm
  • Libraries
    • Mulberry St, 10:30 & 11:30, ages 0-1.5
    • Battery Park, Baby Storytime at 11:30am (REGISTRATION REQUIRED)
    • Seward Park, Toddler Time at 11am
Where: giggle, 120 Wooster St
B&N 97 Warren St
Scholastic, 557 Broadway
Click here for Library Locations
When: n/a
Who: All Ages
How: Just show up, but please verify the storytime either on the website or by calling since storytimes frequently change.
Cost: Free
For more info: NYPLgigglebarnesandnoblescholastic

Tuesday, October 4 - Stargazing on the High Line

Join friends of the High Line and the Amateur Astronomers Association (AAA) of New York for Astronomy on the High Line. Here's the chance to use the AAA's high-powered telescopes, and get a lesson from the experts on the celestial wonders of New York's night sky. 
Where: Under the Standard Hotel, between Gansevoort and 14th Streets 
When: Telescopes will be set from dusk to 9:30PM
Who: Ages 4 and up 
How: No reservations required
Cost: Free 
For more info: In the event of rain, Stargazing will be canceled. For updated information on weather-related changes, visit www.aaa.org

Tuesday, October 4 - "Erik Wood Workshop: Animals" at Battery Park City Library

Create unique 3-D mixed media relief sculptures using recycled computer parts, watercolors, and other non-traditional and contemporary materials
When: 3:30 PM
Who: For ages 4+
How: First Come, First Served
Cost: Free
For more info: http://www.nypl.org

Tuesday, October 4 - Crazy Chemworks at Chatham Square Library

MadScience of Westchester and Manhattan leads hands-on workshops that introuce children to the world of molecules and chemical reactions that produce light, gas, and even slime. 
Where: Chatham Square Library, 33 E Broadway
When: 4:00 PM
Who: For ages 5 to 12 years old. 
How: Just Show Up
Cost: Free
For more info: http://www.nypl.org/

Tuesday, October 4 - Downward Doll Yoga at Karma Kids Yoga

This fun and silly class is an opportunity for kids to share the yoga fun with their favorite doll, creature, or stuffed animal! We'll explore pint-sized poses, mini-mudras, bitsy balances, and teensy twists...all for you and your favorite toy-friend. Bring your own doll or stuffed animal, help them into yoga poses, and they can practice along side, on their very own yoga mat. This is sure to be a playful afternoon! 
Receive a fun yoga giftbag, with mini yoga mat, mini lotion, and other mini yoga accessories, for you and your downward dolls to enjoy!
Where: Karma Kids, 104 West 14th St
When: 4:30 PM - 5:30 PM
Who: For ages 3 - 6 years.
How: Call 646-638-1444 or email [email protected] to reserve your space.
Cost: $30 per child

Wednesday, October 5 - Storytimes on Wednesday

  • Scholastic at 11am, all ages
  • Libraries:
    • Battery Park: Toddler Story Time at 10:30 am
    • Seward Park at 11am, ages 0-18 months
    • Ottendorfer at 11:30, 12 & 1:30 (Spanish Storytime), ages 1.5-3 [REGISTRATION REQUIRED]
    • Hudson Park at 11:15, infants
    • Tompkins Square at 4pm, ages 2-8
Where:
  • Crewcuts, 50 Hudson St  at 11:30am, ages 3-5 (first Wed. of each month)
  • Scholastic, 557 Broadway
  • Click Here for Library Locations
When: n/a
Who: All Ages
How: Just show up, but please verify the storytime either on the website or by calling since storytimes frequently change.
Cost: Free
For more info: NYPLScholastic

Wednesday, October 5 through Thursday, October 6 - The Yak Packers: Early Childhood Art

In this program that encourages collaboration, Yak Packers look, touch, and
explore together, then create projects inspired by Himalayan art.
Where: Rubin Museum of Art, 150 West 17th Street
When: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Who: Ages 2-4, accompanied by an adult
How: Just Show Up
Cost:  $10.00 (Member Price: $5.00)
For more info: http://www.rmanyc.org/

Wednesday, October 5 - Storytime and Singalong for Kids

Join Nancy and Beth for reading, singing, and dancing 
Where: Bookstore Cafe, 126 Crosby St
When: 11:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Who: 3 and under and their caretakers.
How: Just Show Up
Cost:  $5 per family at the door

Wednesday, October 5 - Rattle & Reel at Sunshine Cinema

The Sunshine Cinema welcomes caregivers and their babies on Wednesdays for our special Rattle & Reel screenings. Adults pay normal admission prices but all babies are FREE! Tickets available at the box office only on the day of show. Screening Wednesday, October 5th  at 12:00 noon: Margaret
Where: Sunshine Cinema, 143 East Houston Street 
When: 12:00 PM
Who: Caregiver & baby
How: Just Show Up
Cost: $13

Wednesday, October 5 - 'Teen Author Reading Night' at Jefferson Market Library

Teen Author Reading Night is a monthly series that features authors reading the hottest new books for teens! Hosted by David Levithan, it is a great chance to meet your favorite authors & learn about new books!
October 5th will feature the following authors & books:
  • Jocelyn Davies, A Beautiful Dark
  • Anna Godbersen, Beautiful Days
  • Anne Heltzel, Circle Nine
  • Michelle Hodkin, The Unbecoming of Mara Dyer
  • Kody Keplinger, Shut Out
  • Micol Ostow, What Would My Cell Phone Do?
  • Leila Sales, Past Perfect
  • Cecily von Ziegesar, Gossip Girl Psycho Killer
Where: Jefferson Market Library, 425 Avenue of the Americas
When: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Who: Ages 5-18
How: Just Show Up
Cost: Free
For more info: http://www.nypl.org

Thursday, October 6 - Storytimes on Thursday

  • Scholastic: 11am, all ages 
  • Libraries
    • Hamilton Fish Park: 10:15, ages 1.5-3
    • Battery Park City: 11:30, ages 0-1.5 (REGISTRATION REQUIRED)
    • Ottendorfer Library:  4pm, ages 1.5-5(REGISTRATION REQUIRED)
    • Mulberry St. Library: 10:30, 1.5-3; 4pm, Game on, ages 5-12
    • New Amsterdam:  11:30, ages 1.5-3; Films, 4pm (REGISTRATION REQUIRED)
    • Hudson Park: 3:30,  Kids Music that Rocks
Where:
When: Recurring Weekly
Who: All Ages
How: Just show up, but please verify the storytime either on the website or by calling since storytimes frequently change.
Cost: Free
For more info: Library storytimes and activities may change. Please visit NYPL.org verify times.  

Monday, February 13 - 'Hearts and Flowers' at Ottendorfer Library

Enjoy some heart warming stories and afterwards create pop-up cards for Valentine's Day! 
Where: Ottendorfer Library, 135 Second Avenue
When: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Who: Ages 3-8
How: First Come, First Served
Cost: Free
For more info: www.nypl.org

Plan Ahead:


October 7th through October 30th

Friday, October 7 - 'Spaghetti Social w/ Socialsklz:-)' at Taste Buds

Join us for this fun evening of cooking, learning and toasting to our Italian Dinner Feast. Taste Buds teams up with Socialsklz:-) to bring you a very special Spaghetti Social Cooking Class. Children will arrive at 5:00 pm to prepare Spaghetti, Garlic Bread and homemade Marinara Sauce. Chefs receive a diningsklz:-) workshop to learn about table settings and atmosphere, host and guest roles/responsibilities and making toasts. Parents join at 6:45 for the final part of class as we all sit down to a Spaghetti Social dinner with your kids as the hosts!
Where: Taste Buds Kitchen, 109 W 27th Street
When: 5:00 PM - 7:00 PM
Who: Ages 8-13
Cost: $75 per parent & child ($40 for each additional person)

Saturday, October 8 - Yom Kippup Family Friendly Service

A children friendly service with prayers, games and sweets.
Where: The Pearl, 121 West 19th St
When: 11:30 AM - 1:00 PM
Who: Ages 2-10
How: RSVP
Cost: $15

Sunday, October 9 - BYOK at the 92Y|Tribeca: Princess Katie and Racer Steve’s Dress Up Jam!

It’s a VERY STRANGE AND SUPER WEIRD COSTUME CONCERT at 92YTribeca with popular kiddie rock band, Princess Katie & Racer Steve!  Kids are encouraged to dress very strange and super weird for this high-energy, super-entertaining and seriously unique live show. With awesome music, plenty of laughter and lots of audience participation, this show is fun for the kids AND their adults. The band – who AOL Shopping says “is a wonderful breath of fresh air in the world of children's entertainment" - will be playing hits from all of their CDs as well as their latest CD, “Tiny Cool.” Get ready to rock out…royally!
Where: 92YTribeca, 200 Hudson Street
When: 11:00 AM
Who: All Ages
Cost: $15 for both kids and adults, children under 2-years-old free.
For more info: http://www.92y.org or call 212.601.1000

Sunday, October 9 - Jazz for Kids with Amy Cervini

Play percussion instruments, listen to kid-friendly jazz songs and learn a little bit about jazz!
Where: 55 Bar at 55 Christopher Street (at 7th Ave)
When: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Who: Ages 2-6
How: Just show up
Cost: $5 per person

Wednesday, October 12 - Adopt-A-Geranium

The Downtown Alliance is giving away 4,000 geraniums at part of its “Green Around Downtown” program. Come volunteer, or just to get a plotted plant to bring back to your office or home. Co-sponsored by Con Edison, the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer, New York City Council Member Margaret Chin, Community Board 1, Whole Foods and Crumbs.
 
Where: Bowling Green Park (Broadway and Whitehall Street)
When: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: All Ages
How: Just Show Up
Cost: Free

Wednesday, October 12 - Music Together at giggle Soho

Come Sing, Dance, and Play along with Music Together NYC! Designed for babies from birth through kindergarten, this ongoing music class is a great way to encourage music appreciation – plus, it's just lots of fun! Each class is led by a teacher from Music Together NYC who is trained in developmentally appropriate practices.
Where: giggle, 120 Wooster St (between Prince & Spring)
When: 4:00 PM (Second Wednesday of the Month)
Who: All Ages
How: Call 212-334-5817 or email [email protected] to reserve a spot.
Cost: Free
For more info: http://www.giggle.com/

Friday, October 14 through Sunday, October 16 - Yo Gabba Gabba! Live!: It's Time to Dance! Tour

Sing and dance along with e DJ Lance Rock, Brobee, Foofa, Muno, Plex, and Toodee, with special guests Hip Hop Legend Biz Markie and Razzle Dazzle Superstar Leslie Hall in this all new Yo Gabba Gabba! Live! show. Your kids are sure to have a blast!
Where: Beacon Theater, 2124 Broadway
When: n/a
Who: All Ages
Cost: $40-90
For more info: http://www.yogabbagabbalive.com SHOW TIMES:
  • Friday, October 14, 2011     - 05:00 PM
  • Saturday, October 15, 2011 - 11:00 AM, 2:00 PM and 05:00 PM
  • Sunday, October 16, 2011   - 11:00 AM and 02:00 PM

Friday, October 14 - Pajama Yoga at Karma Kids

Kids should wear their pajamas to this special Friday night class and first PJ yoga of the season! We'll take a fantastical glow-in-the-dark yoga adventure, then a story and yummy smelling foot rubs. Milk and cookies will be served after the class, then sweet dreams to follow! What a great way to end a tough week at school.
Where: Karma Kids Yoga, 104 West 14th Street (between 6th and 7th Avenues.)
When: 6:30 PM - 8:00 PM
Who: Ages 4-7
How:  Call (212) 638-1444 or email [email protected] to register 
Cost: Fee is $20 per child.

Saturday, October 15 - 'Supertall Skyscrapers' at the Skyscraper Museum

Learn about the world's tallest buildings featured in our gallery! After a short tour of the variety of the world's tallest structures, kids will work together in this hands-on building exercise to design and create their own towers. Engineering concepts of shape and strength will be explored in this program as participants test the heights of their architectural imaginations! 
Where: The Skyscraper Museum, 39 Battery Place 
When: 10:30 AM - 11:45 AM
Who: Ages 4+
Cost: Suggested donation - $5
For more info: http://www.skyscraper.org or call (212) 968- 1961

Sunday, October 16 - Ideya SalsaBaby Brunch

Join Jose Conde and Band for some great music that will get your little ones up on their feet and dancing while you enjoy a delicious Latin brunch.  A great event for the whole family!
Where: Ideya Latin Bistro, 349 W Broadway between Broome and Grande
When: 10:00 AM
Who: All Ages
How: Call for Reservations: (212)625-1441
Cost: Free with an a la carte brunch; Kids menu available
For more info: http://www.ideya.net/ or call (212)625-1441

Sunday, October 16 - 'Erin Lee and the Up Past Bedtime Band' at City Treehouse

Erin Lee and the Up Past Bedtime Band are coming to City Treehouse! The Up Past Bedtime Band are terrifically talented New York City musicians who can usually be found up well past bedtime playing in many of NYC’s top venues. Together they create a fabulous family concert featuring funky drumming, groovy harmonica riffs and silly songs.
Where: City Treehouse, 129A W 20th Street, between 6th and 7th Avenues
When: 4:00 PM - 5:00 PM
Who: All Ages
How: To register, call (212) 255-2050 or email [email protected]
Cost:
  • $20 per child ($25 at the door), all ages  
  • Come early to play for an hour, $15 per child 

Thursday, October 20 - Third Annual Bowl for Kids Event

Though this event is only for adults it is for an amazing organization! So lace up your bowling shoes, and join NYC education charity Change for Kids (CFK) for the 3rd annual Bowl for Kids event to benefit some of the city's most underprivileged elementary schools. The evening begins with a cocktail reception and includes a silent auction, dinner, student performances, VIP lounge, and 2 hrs of unlimited bowling. Now serving four schools in Harlem, Brooklyn, Queens, & the Bronx, CFK works to provide more than 2,500 students with vital educational programs.
Where: 300 New York at Chelsea Piers (pier 60/23rd & West Side Hwy, New York, NY 10011; (212) 835-2695)
When: 7:00 PM - 11:00 PM
Who: Adults Only
Cost: $250 for basic tickets, $500 for VIP tickets

Saturday, October 22 through Sunday, October 23 - Dancing Through The Light: An Autumn Celebration

The Green-Wood Historic Fund will present Dancing Through The Light: An Autumn Celebration, a     walking tour where visitors will enjoy dance vignettes set against the backdrop of Green-Wood’s natural beauty and history. 
Where: Historic Green-Wood Cemetery, Meet at the main gate 25th Street at 5th Avenue, Brooklyn
  • Via subway: Take the “R” train to 25th Street in Brooklyn and walk up the hill one block and into the Cemetery.
When: n/a
Who: All Ages
How: Buy Tickets or call 718-210-3080 (Visitors must arrive 30 minutes before each performance.)
Cost: Admission (in advance and at the door) is $12 for Green-Wood Historic Fund members and $15 for non-members.  The Family Package is $30 for two adults and up to three children under 16. 
For more info: http://www.green-wood.com
Four Performances:
  • Saturday, October 22, 2011 at 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.
  • Sunday, October 23, 2011 at 12:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Saturday, October 22 - Fall Community Planting

The Downtown Alliance is greening Lower Manhattan! You bring family and friends, and we’ll bring the plants and gardening tools. Complimentary refreshments, family-friendly activities, composting booth, and more. Co-sponsored by Con Edison, the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation, Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer, New York City Council Member Margaret Chin, Community Board 1, Whole Foods and Crumbs.
 
Where: Bowling Green Park (Broadway and Whitehall Street)
When: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: All Ages
How: Just Show Up
Cost: Free

Sunday, October 23 - Baby Loves Disco at Le Poisson Rouge

Bring the kids to boogie at the this hip night club!  BLD transforms Le Poisson Rouge into a child proof disco with snacks, bubbles and lots of dancing!
Where: Le Poisson Rouge, 158 Bleeker St
When: 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM (Next date: October 23rd)
Who: 6 months - 7 years
Cost: Single ticket: $20/ Family 4 Pak: $60

Tuesday, October 25 - A New Young Readers Book Club at McNally Jackson

Sarah Gerard will host our Young Readers Book Group for a lively discussion.
Where: Downstairs at McNally Jackson, 52 Prince St (between Lafayette and Mulberry)
When: 5:00 PM - 6:00 PM (Meets the last Tuesday of every month)
Who: Ages 8-14
How: Just Show Up
Cost: Free

Sunday, October 30 - Halloween Hi-Jinks on the High Line

This in one Halloween Event you don't want to miss! Families are invited to dress in costume and join Friends of the High Line for an afternoon filled with tricks and treats on the High Line. The parade begins at noon followed by face painting, spooky tunes and building a spooky house at The Porch on the High Line at West 15th St.
Where: High Line, Seating Steps, on the High Line at West 22nd Street.
When: 12:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Who: All Ages
How: Just Show Up
Cost: FREE, no RSVP required.

Sunday, October 30 - Halloween at Top of the Rock Observation Deck

Top of the Rock Observation Deck at Rockefeller Center® will welcome children and families to a fun Halloween scene. Children can enjoy face painting, magic shows, sweet treats and arts and crafts while the whole family will enjoy the stunning, 360-degree panorama of New York City. Activities are free with admission. 
Where: Top of the Rock, 30 Rockefeller Plaza, between 49th and 50th Streets and 5th and 6th Avenues, 67th Floor, Manhattan.
When: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Who: All Ages
How: Reserve tickets  or call 877-NYC-ROCK (877-692-7625) or 212-698-2000.  In addition, there are several terminals on-site to help visitors purchase tickets easily.
Cost: Tickets are $23.00 for adults, $21.00 for seniors and $15.00 for children six to 12 years old.  Children 5 and under are free.  

Macaroni Plays


My Little Pony App Review (Available for iPhones, iPads and the iPod)

When evaluating an app for kids, I look for two elements; first, can my child use the app by themselves, and second, is there a fun way my child and I play with the app together.   My Little Pony: Twilight Sparkle, Teacher for a Day from Ruckus Media and Hasbro gets a big “yes” on both counts.


My Little Pony: Twilight Sparkle, Teacher for a Day is primarily a storybook with two reading modes.   In the “read to me” mode, the app reads the story and highlights the words in ...


New Families, New Traditions


New and Expectant Parents are invited to this new Sunday Series at the Museum of Jewish Heritage

Being a new parent can certainly be an overwhelming experience so new and expecting parents in the downtown area are lucky to have another great resource for finding support, advice and friends launch in the neighborhood.

Starting Sunday, October 2nd the Museum of Jewish Heritage will kick off their New Families, New Traditions series.  These informal gatherings will be occurring on the first Sunday morning each month through December.  The series was designed especially for Downtown Jewish and interfaith parents of babies and young toddlers. 

You will have the opportunity ...


At the Theater


Ongoing Kid Friendly Performances

Aladdin

  • Where: Galli Theater - Midtown, 347 W 36th St
  • When: Sep 3-26th (Sept 3rd & 4th Little Red Riding Hood will be performed instead)
  • Who: All Ages
  • Cost: $15/children, $20/adult

Angelina Ballerina The Musical

  • Where: DiCapo Opera Theater, 184 E 76th St
  • Who: Ages 3 to 12
  • When:  Saturdays & Sundays at 1pm 
  • Cost:  $29.50; PREMIUM

Angelina Ballerina The Very Merry Holiday Musical

  • Where: 2162 Broadway, 4th Floor
  • Who: Ages 3 to 12
  • When: Novermber 25th, Dec 26-29th, 11am & 1pm 
  • Cost:  $29.50; PREMIUM

The Berenstain Bears LIVE! in Family Matters the Musical

  • Where: MMAC Theater, 248 W 60th St
  • Description: Adapted from the classic children's book series by Stan and Jan Berenstain, The Berenstain Bears LIVE! in Family Matters, the Musical brings everyone's favorite bear family to life in a thrilling theatrical experience that kids as well as their parents will treasure for many years to come.
  • When: Through October
  • Who: All Ages
  • Cost: $9.95 - 59.95

ImaginOcean

  • Where: New World Stages, 340 West 50th Street
  • Who: Ages 3 and up
  • Cost: $39

The Little Prince

  • Where: New Victory Theater,
  • Description: Stranded in the desert after crash landing, a pilot awakens to the sound of an inquisitive little voice asking for, please, a picture.
  • Who: Ages 6+
  • When: Oct 1-16
  • Cost: $14-38

Pinkalicious  

  • Where: Manhattan Movement and Arts Center, 248 W 60th St
  • Description: A tot obsessed with eating pink cupcakes finds herself turning her favorite rosy hue.
  • Who: All ages.
  • Cost:  $8-$25

 The Ohmies

  • Where: Peter Jay Sharp Theater, 416 W 42nd St
  • Description: Get your kids moving and let their imaginations run wild as the sing along to original music, hop like a grasshopper, slither like a snake, fly like a butterfly and help The Ohmies shake off the worries.
  • When: Starting June 16th - Sept 25th 
  • Who: Ages 3-8
  • Cost: $35

Story Pirates

  • Where:  Drama Book Shop (250 West 40th Street btw 7th and 8th Ave)
  • Description: Now in its sixth year, the weekly New York Mainstage show features new stories by kids in the audience. 
  • When: June 18 - October 1st, Saturdays at 2 PM
  • Who: All Ages
  • Cost: $15

Stone Soup

  • Where: Players Theatre, 115 MacDougal St at Minetta Ln
  • Description: Set in the Revolutionary War America, two lost soldiers stumble upon the "perfect" village while searching for food and shelter. Unfortunately, the villagers are not so willing to share with these weary men until the soldiers begin to make their favorite meal - Stone Soup
  • When: Sept 18 - Nov 5th
  • Who: Ages 3 and up
  • Cost: $25 - 40

Uncle Pirates

  • Where: 2162 Broadway, 4th Floor
  • Description:  Wilson is just your average kid. Then one day he finds out his uncle is a pirate… like, a REAL pirate! With help from Uncle Pirate and his faithful talking penguin, maybe, just maybe, Wilson can survive the fourth grade. Grab yer eye patches and pirate hats, mateys! The adventure begins now! 
  • When: Sept 24th - Nov 14th, Sat. & Sun. at 11am and 1pm
  • Who: All Ages
  • Cost: $25

White

  • Where: New Victory Theater,
  • Description: Cotton and Wrinkle lovingly care for their orderly world, working hard to hide any hint of hue. But keeping things pigment-free proves problematic for the beanie-wearing buddies. 
  • Who: Ages 2-5
  • When: Oct 13- Nov 13
  • Cost: $20

 Zarkana

  • Where: Radio City Music Hall
  • Description: This epic spectacle takes audiences into a fantastical and suspenseful world where highly-acrobatic feats are heightened by original live music and interactive multimedia elements.
  • When: June 9th - Oct 8th
  • Who: All Ages
  • Cost: $52-300

NY Library Locations


Always call ahead or check NYPL.org to verify times

Battery Park City Library

175 North End Avenue (at Murray Street)
(212) 790-3499

Chatham Square Library

33 East Broadway (near Catherine St.)
(212) 964-6598

Hamilton Fish Park Library

415 East Houston Street (near Avenue D)
(212) 673-2290

Hudson Park Library

66 Leroy Street (off Seventh Ave. South)
(212) 243-6876

Jefferson Market Library

424 Avenue of the Americas

(212)243-43334

Mulberry Street Library

10 Jersey Street (Between Lafayette & Mulberry Streets)
(212) 966-3424

New Amsterdam Library

9 Murray Street (between Broadway & Church St.)
(212) 732-8186

Ottendorfer Library

135 Second Avenue (near E ...


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