DailyCandy Kids All Cities

Mommy and Me Braids

2012-02-13T09:45:00Z

A How To from Salon Bloom

By the time Miss Doll Face is cleaned, combed, and out the door, your hair-maintenance energy is depleted. Hello, greasy ponytail day four.

We asked our favorite stylist Kristi Marshall, co-owner of Salon Bloom in Claremont (the hike inland pays off in the form of high-style services without big city prices), to pick a style you’ll both want to rock.

Moms and doll faces, meet the braid band.

You’ll need:
A comb or brush
2 rubber bands
4 bobby pins
Hairspray

1. Part your daughter’s hair down the middle with comb or brush— a little loose and messy is a good thing.

2. Start braiding one side section, keeping your hands at a 90-degree angle to her head. Braid all the way to the end and tie with rubber band. Repeat on the other side.

3. Wrap one of the braids around her “headband” area and cross pin it (pin with one bobby pin, then crisscross another pin to lock it in place).

4. Wrap the other braid across, gently nuzzling against or overlapping the first braid, then cross pin in place.

5. Handle any little-girl fly-aways with a quick comb and set the braid band with a spritz of hairspray.

6. Repeat on your own mane.

Salon Bloom, 969 West Foothill Boulevard, between North Regis Avenue and North Mountain Avenue, Claremont (909-447-0250 or salonbloomclaremont.com).

Photo: Courtesy of Salon Bloom

DUNK
Harlem Globetrotters
What: The legendary team makes hoop dreams come true with playful tricks and athletic feats.
Why: Be a good sport.
When: Sun., noon & 5 p.m.
Where: Staples Center, 1111 S. Figueroa St., at W. 11th St., Downtown (213-742-7340 or ticketmaster.com). $20-$250.

REVEL
Mardi Gras at the Original Farmers Market
What: Bring the kids to make puppets, string beads, and dance to live Zydeco bands at this weekend-long festival.
Why: Don’t miss the mutti-gras costume pet parade Saturday at noon.
When: Sat. & Sun., 11 a.m.-9 p.m.
Where: The Original Farmers Market, 6333 W. Third St., at Fairfax Ave., West Patio, Fairfax District (323-933-9211). Admission is free.

Open Wide

2012-02-13T09:45:00Z

J&R Jr. Launches in Lower Manhattan

A burger is good. A burger with the works is better.

The same goes for big-box baby stores. This week downtown Manhattan gets its first such retail oasis, J&R Jr. Occupying the 15,000-square-foot second floor of electronics mecca J&R, the store stocks everything from cribs and car seats to PlayStations and paint sets.

The array of gear and goods is vast but selective. And you can shop it all in peace thanks to kiddie diversions throughout the store — think iPads, instruments, art tables, and a baby play yard. Other helpful offerings include baby and birthday registries, citywide messenger service, and free in-store assembly (buy a stroller, walk baby home in it).

An on-site event space hosts daily story time and classes by Moonsoup, Rockin’ with Andy, and Little Maestros. And a lineup of monthly family concerts is in the works.

We know, it’s a mouthful.

J&R Jr., 1 Ann Street, at Broadway (212-238-9060 or jr.com).

Photo: Courtesy of J&R Jr.

CELEBRATE
Valentine’s Day with Rockin’ Railroad
What: Experience Kidville’s newest interactive music class with a V-Day themed party.
Why: Includes a lovely lunch.
When: Tues., 11 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: Kidville, 163 E. 84th St., b/t Third & Lexington Aves. (212-772-8435). Tickets, $35 in advance online at bigcitymoms.com; $40 at the door.

GROOVE
A Celebration of Black History with Calvin Booker and Friends
What: Move your bodies to hip-hop, jazz, and rhythm and blues.
Why: Booker channels Savion Glover with his dance style — a mash-up of tap and hip-hop.
When: Sat., 1-1:30 p.m. & 2-2:30 p.m.
Where: Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Ave., at St. Marks Ave. (718-735-4400). Free with museum admission.

TREAT
Fastelavn
What: The Nordic version of Halloween, where kids dress up in costumes and sing for candy.
Why: This Scandinavian sing-along includes games and goodies.
When: Sat., 1 p.m.
Where: Scandinavia House, 58 Park Ave., at 38th St. Reservations (recommended) to 212-847-9740. Children, $7.

We're Getting Carried Away

2012-02-13T09:45:00Z

Itzy Ritzy's Wrap & Roll

You know how to do the car seat tango: Pop it in, drive around, pop it out, lug, lug, lug.

To help you with those last painful steps, there’s Itzy Ritzy’s Wrap & Roll. The smart invention is a pad that wraps around an infant carrier handle to cushion your arm while you’re lifting the car seat. And it has another trick up its sleeve: It unrolls to become a play mat.

Made from soft cotton and minky, the machine-washable circle can be spread out for tummy time (it comes with a mirror and toy loops to keep littles occupied). In a pinch, you can also use it as a changing pad or blanket.

You have to love a product that does so many things — all without taking up a lick of space in your diaper bag. And that’s no song and dance.

Available at itzyritzy.com, $30.

Photo: Courtesy of Itzy Ritzy

CREATE
Family Day: Color
What: Listen to stories, make a collage, and search for hues throughout the DeCordova Sculpture Park and Museum.
Why: Daub on watercolors to brighten the midwinter day.
When: Sat., 11 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: 51 Sandy Pond Rd., Lincoln (781-259-8355). Adults and teens, $10-$14; children, free.

WATCH
Cinderella
What: Tanglewood Marionettes decks its puppets out in ornate costumes for the classic show.
Why: Prepare for unexpected plot twists (Hint: There’s no pumpkin to give her a lift.)
When: Sun., 10:30 a.m.
Where: Newton Cultural Center, 225 Nevada St., Newtonville (617-527-8283). Tickets at 617-796-1540 or newtoncommunitypride.org. Adults and children, $8 in advance/$10 at the door.

LOOK
Picture This: 90 Years of Storybook Art
What: Whimsical illustrations shown alongside the playthings that inspired them.
Why: Raggedy Ann and other familiar faces.
When: Thru May 6.
Where: Wenham Museum, 132 Main St., Wenham (978-468-2377). Adults, $7.50; children, $5.50; under 1, free.

Take the Playhouse Outside, Kids

2012-02-13T09:45:00Z

Modern Playhouse's Dacha Playhouse Set

Parenthood has introduced you to some unlikely bedfellows. Quiet time and dance parties. Vegetables and dessert.

But the mythical combination of plastic and good design has eluded you until now. Modern Playhouse’s new Dacha Playhouse Set shares the same clean lines, rounded windows, and airy feel as the San Francisco company’s sleek wooden houses. The difference lies in the easy-to-clean, recycled plastic that’s strong enough to withstand rain, sun, mud pies, and poster paint.

Your playhouse arrives flat-packed with a table, two stools, and a window box. After a 15-minute, no-tools-needed assembly, it’s ready to host messy gardening projects, rambunctious games of hide ‘n’ seek, and even al fresco tea parties.

It’s so pretty, you’ll want it stationed in the yard right outside your window. To be enjoyed by all — inside and out.

Available at modern-playhouse.com, $1450. Through February 29, enter code dailycandy20 for twenty percent off your purchase.

Photo: Pamela Palma Photography / Courtesy of Modern Playhouse

GROOVE
Valentine’s Day JAM with Charity Kahn
What: An on-your-feet, love-themed concert for fams with tots 5 and under.
Why: Sing your heart out.
When: Tues., 10:30 a.m.
Where: Noe Valley Public Library, 451 Jersey St., b/t Diamond & Castro Sts. (415-355-5707). Free.

DISCOVER
Animals of Hyde Street Pier
What: Low tide reveals the city’s underside — barnacles, mussels, and sea stars.
Why: The piers are alive.
When: Wed.-Fri., 3-3:30 p.m.
Where: San Francisco Maritime National Historical Park, 499 Jefferson St., at Hyde St., at the end of the pier (415-447-5000). Free.

WATCH
MAMA: Motherhood Around the Globe
What: The SF-based International Museum of Women launches an online exhibit about motherhood around the world.
Why: Click and travel.
When: You have three minutes to spare.
Where: Online at mama.imow.org

Have a Relaxing Pregnancy

2012-02-13T09:45:00Z

Baby Blueprint Maternity Concierge

Pregnancy is a 40-week marathon. Before you reach the finish line, there’s gear to buy, a nursery to decorate, and epic bloating to contend with.

Stay cheerfully on course with the help of Baby Blueprint maternity concierge. The biz, run by two local moms, helps families prepare for the big day — everything from personal shopping to nursery design to mailing shower invites.

Count on them for registry consultation (they’ll meet you at the store and walk you through all the loot). Or have them on call throughout your whole pregnancy; they’ll put together a month-by-month checklist of vital things to do, from ordering that custom-built crib to taking CPR classes. Through it all, they’re there with the kind of moral support you’d expect from a friend.

Without any of the judgment.

For more information on Baby Blueprint, e-mail baby.blueprint@yahoo.com or go to babyblueprintchicago.com.

Photo: Miho Aikawa / Getty Images

BEND
Yoga for Kids
What: New classes for ages 5-10 use storytelling, role playing, and all-out silliness to explore yoga poses.
Why: A “meet-your-feet” session is a friendly intro to reflexology.
When: Every Tues., 4-5 p.m.
Where: Daystar Center, 1550 S. State St., b/t 15th & 16th Sts. (312-674-0001). $10 per class; $90 per ten-class pass.

PLAY
Building Blocks Toys Game Night
What: Learn and play new and classic family games, eat snacks, and win prizes.
Why: You’ll score 15-20 percent off all games.
When: Every Wed., 5-7 p.m.
Where: 2130 W. Division St., b/t Hoyne Ave. & Leavitt St. Reservations recommended to 773-235-1888. Admission is free.

SEE
Windy City Circus
What: Ooh and aah at aerial artists, clowns, jugglers, and more.
Why: This circus has purpose. A portion of the proceeds go to Ronald McDonald House Charities and the Special Olympics Chicago.
When: Fri.-Feb. 26.
Where: Navy Pier Festival Hall, 600 E. Grand Ave., at Lake Shore Dr. Tickets at 312-803-0096 or online at windycitycircus.org. $17.50-$60.

A Slippery Slope

2012-02-09T09:45:00Z

Rent Snow Clothes Online

We don’t mean to make a mountain out of a bunny hill, but ski vacations with kids can get steep.

Before the whole thing heads downhill, check out Rent Snow Clothes, a new online shop that leases high-quality kids’ ski apparel for a fraction of what it would cost to buy.

Outfitting your kids from hats to socks runs $100 for eight days. Or fill in the gaps by ordering individual items a la carte. The jackets, ski bibs, base layers, mittens, and toppers are all by The North Face, so your kids won’t look mismatched (or neglected) on the slopes.

Rentals are in four- or eight-day increments, and the company ships to anywhere in the United States. When your vacay is over, drop the gear in the mail and send it back.

All the items are inspected and cleaned between skiers (a little birdie told us the wares are new this season), so you get the goods in peak condition.

Available online at rentsnowclothes.com, $5-$100, plus shipping.

Photo: Jan Greune / Look-foto / Getty Images

Prudent Baby's DIY Crayon Valentines

2012-02-07T07:00:00Z

We Heart Bloggers: DIY Valentines

2012-02-07T07:00:00Z

Now Exhibiting Creative Indoor Programs

2012-02-06T09:45:00Z

Warm Up to Culture

Before babies you whiled away wintry afternoons in the American Wing at the Met. (Or sometimes it was more like the shoe wing at Bergdorf Goodman.)

The city’s museums are still the perfect place to take refuge from the cold — even with young’uns in tow.

Rubin Museum of Art
Participants in Yak Packers enjoy games, story time, and a themed art project related to the museum’s collection of Himalayan art every Wednesday and Thursday, 10:30-11:30 a.m. 150 West 17th Street, at Seventh Avenue (212-620-5000). Adult and first child, $10; additional children, $5; babies under 1 year, free.

Children’s Museum of the Arts
Wee Arts allows budding artists to try their hand at a variety of materials and mediums. Sessions run Monday, Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday, 10:45 a.m.-noon, and end with music and a romp in the ball pit. 103 Charlton Street, between Greenwich and Hudson Streets (212-274-0986). $22 per family (up to three people).

American Folk Art Museum
Every Saturday, 1-2 p.m., the Families and Folk Art program provides a kid-friendly tour of the exhibits followed by art-making activities inspired by the collection. 2 Lincoln Square, Columbus Avenue, at 66th Street (212-595-9533). Admission is free.

The Jewish Museum
Art workshops take place Sunday, 1-4 p.m., in the activity center. The space is equipped for whatever project strikes their fancy — be it painting, sculpting, or drawing. 1109 Fifth Avenue, at 92nd Street (212-423-3200). Free with museum admission.

Whitney Museum of American Art
Even if your bub is too itsy to get artsy, he can still tag along for the Whitney’s weekly stroller tours. Crying babies are welcome (the museum is closed to the public), but check the calendar before you go, the tours are only select Fridays, noon-1 p.m. 945 Madison Avenue, at 75th Street (212-570-3600). Adult admission is $25.

SAVE
Off-Broadway Week: Two-for-One Tickets
What: Take Junior to a show, you go for free.
Why: Participating productions include Freckleface Strawberry, Gazillion Bubble Show, Stomp, and more.
When: Thru Sun.
Where: Tickets online at nycgo.com.

LISTEN
Spellbound Storytime
What: The Spellbound Theatre hosts a story hour for babies and toddlers, featuring classic fables and nursery rhymes.
Why: Includes music and puppets.
When: Wed., 4 p.m.
Where: Birth Day Presence Studio, 182 Eighth Ave., b/t Garfield Pl. & 1st St., Park Slope (917- 751-6579). Admission is $5.

SEE
Gustafer Yellowgold’s Golden Heart Symphony
What: The little creature from the sun is back in NYC with his combo of catchy tunes and quirky animation.
Why: This special performance includes musical accompaniment by The Chelsea Symphony.
When: Sat., 11 a.m.; Sun., 4 p.m.
Where: Symphony Space, Peter Jay Sharp Theatre, 2537 Broadway, at 95th St. (212-864-5400). Tickets online at symphonyspace.org. Adults, $25; children, $15.

Photo: Evi Abeler / Courtesy of Rubin Museum of Art

Bad Art Is History

2012-02-06T09:45:00Z

Master Kitz Art Kits

Mastered the art of the craft project lie you have, Jedi Mom (“Oh, I just love it!”). But sure what it is, you’re not.

If your youngling’s art is more messterpiece than masterpiece, introduce him to Master Kitz. Each box is packed with the necessary tools to teach littles to re-create pivotal works of art, such as Monet’s “Water Lilies,” Van Gogh’s “Sunflowers,” and Klimt’s “The Tree of Life.”

Stencils, stickers, acrylic paints, oil pastels, rollers — project materials are specifically chosen to reproduce the textures and techniques the masters used in their great works. And for parents, there’s a discussion guide/history lesson to help turn a rainy afternoon activity into a teachable moment.

Ensuring that the force is with you.

Available online at kidzaw.com, $30.

SHOP
Magic Beans Boston
What: Sure, four outposts are sprinkled around town, but the shop finally opens a location close to home.
Why: Easier access to its award-winning selection of toys, furniture, and gear.
When: Mon.-Sat., 10 a.m.-9 p.m.; Sun., 11 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: The Shops at Prudential Center, 776 Boylston St. (617-383-8296).

EAT
Family-Style Dinner
What: Tuck into the three-course meal while tykes watch a movie and make Valentine-themed crafts with Samara Lamm of The Kid’s Place 4 Fun.
Why: The chef whips up seasonal purees for the littlest cupids.
When: Fri., 5:30-8 p.m.
Where: Aura, 1 Seaport Ln., Seaport District. Reservations (recommended) to 617-385-4300 or online at opentable.com.

PLAY
PEM Pals
What: Stop by the Peabody Essex Museum for stories and easy art projects.
Why: The book Polar Bear, Polar Bear, What Do You Hear? is this week’s wintry twist.
When: Thru Feb. 29. Wed., 10:30 a.m.
What: 161 Essex St., Salem, meet at information desk (978-745-9500). Adults, $15; 16 and under and Salem residents, free.

Photo: Courtesy of Kidzaw

Romper Rooms

2012-02-06T09:45:00Z

A Magic Forest and Pint Size Kids

Once upon a time your living room was easily reimagined into a barn, castle, or the wild, wild West. But lately your blanket forts are falling flat.

Meet two new play spaces that may give you the lift you need.

A Magic Forest
This Culver City storefront has been lovingly transformed into a mystical wooded forest. Spot fairies hiding in the magical hand-painted mural beneath a blanket of green branches. However, the real draw is the rustic wooden playhouse that seems transported straight from Middle-earth. 12512 West Washington Boulevard, between Neosho and Chase Avenues, Culver City (310-397-9400 or amagicforestculvercity.com). Children 1 and up, $8; babies 6-12 months and siblings, $5; babies under 6 months, free.

Pint Size Kids
An itsy-bitsy neighborhood powered by tiny tots, this petite play universe has a house, medical center, workshop, grocery store, and post office all lined up on a city street. Your mini-me travels by foot or car, stopping to get gas or shop. Need a break? He can wind down with a picnic in the grassy reading nook. 13323 Ventura Boulevard, between Dixie Canyon and Fulton Avenues, Sherman Oaks (310-339-7452 or pintsizekids.com). First child, $12; siblings, $10.

CRAFT
Create-a-Valentine at Brentwood Country Mart
What: Kiddos craft cards with the pros from Sugar Paper and make floral arrangements with Botany Flowers.
Why: Record the moment with a sweet snap from the on-site photo booth.
When: Fri., 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: 225 26th St., at W. San Vicente Blvd. Info at 310-458-6682. Reservations for floral class (required) at 310-394-0358. Event admission is free.

DRUM
Black History Month Free Family Night
What: Feel the beat of an African drumming performance followed by a hands-on workshop.
Why: Free for the whole family.
When: Tues., 4-8 p.m.
Where: Kidspace Children’s Museum, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., at Seco St., Pasadena (626-449-9144).

SIP
Valentine’s Celebration
What: An afternoon of tea, crafts, and love stories at Orange County’s Bowers Museum.
Why: You gotta have art.
When: Sun. 1:30-3 p.m.
Where: 2002 N. Main St, at E. 20th St. (714-480-1520). Adults & kids, $6; under 2, free.

Photos: Denise Estes / Courtesy of A Magic Forest; Courtesy of Pint Size Kids

Game On

2012-02-06T09:45:00Z

The Bored Game

We used to believe that only boring people got bored. Then we had kids.

If your little bundle of energy is claiming nothing to do, introduce him to The Bored Game.

This clever little box is packed with a variety of timeless kids’ games (and a spinner to help yours choose which one to play first). Created by two local moms, Debra Tarrant and Bronwyn Brunner, and their kids, it’s an instant cure for aimless tykes and adults with selective amnesia from their own childhoods.

Inside the box is a small selection of reusable, rainbow-hued toys (jacks, jump rope, pick-up sticks). But these props are just the tip of the iceberg. What really allows you to plumb the depths is an illustrated instruction booklet packed with rules for 42 games — everything from Chinese Jump Rope to Capture the Flag — to play alone or with friends. Most of them, including Hangman and Cat’s Cradle, require only household staples like paper and string.

And a healthy dose of curiosity.

Available online at theboredgamecompany.com, $35.

ROCK
The Fresh Beat Band
What: Shout, Twist, Marina, and Kiki touch down in Oakland on their first concert tour.
Why: Giveaway! Free family four-packs for the first four DailyCandy Kids readers to email.
When: Sun., 1:30 & 4:30 p.m.
Where: Fox Theater, 1807 Telegraph Ave., b/t 18th & 19th Sts., Oakland (510-302-2277). Tickets online at ticketmaster.com. Adults & kids, $20-$40.

CREATE
MakeArt Workshop: Family Heritage Collages
What: Hear Romare Bearden’s Li’l Dan, the Drummer Boy: a Civil War Story and make your own family collage in honor of Black History Month.
Why: They’ll piece it all together.
When: Sat., 2-3:30 p.m.
Where: San Francisco Public Library, 100 Larkin St., at Grove St. R.S.V.P. to 415-773-0303. Adults & children, free.

WATCH
Chinese New Year Parade
What: Celebrate the Lunar New Year with stilt walkers, elaborate floats, firecrackers, and cavorting lions.
Why: Enter the dragon.
When: Sat., 5:15-8 p.m.
Where: Portsmouth Square, 733 Kearny St., b/t Clay & Washington Sts. Free.

Photo: Debra Tarrant / Courtesy of The Bored Game Company

Live Concerts for Little Rockers

2012-02-06T09:45:00Z

Where to Beat the Winter Blues

Your restless little sidekick is singing the winter blues. And it sure isn’t pretty.

Keep everyone upbeat by checking out the city’s best regular gigs for the tiniest of groupies.

Lincoln Park Zoo
Mr. Singer plays a rollicking show at Farm-in-the-Zoo every Wednesday and Friday at 9:15 and 10 a.m. He makes learning animal sounds and the alphabet fun with original songs played on acoustic guitar. North Cannon Drive, at Fullerton Parkway (312-742-2000). Admission is free.

Beat Kitchen
The grown-up venue puts on training pants every Sunday at noon. Musicians change weekly: On February 12, Mr. Singer & the Sharp Cookies (his full band) swing through, and on February 18, folk-pop favorite Joanie Leeds takes the stage. 2100 West Belmont Street, at Hoyne Avenue (773-281-4444). Admission is $6.

Little Beans Cafe
Open play, dinner, and a live concert are on the bill once a month. After pizza and ice cream, musicians go to town in the corner of the playroom, where there is space for dancing. Joanie Leeds plays February 17; Laura Doherty plays March 9. 1809 West Webster Avenue, at North Wood Street (773-251-1025). Admission is $25-$55 per family.

Whole Foods Lincoln Park
Teachers from Bubbles Academy cycle through playful songs every Wednesday and Thursday mornings at 10 a.m. The toddler-friendly show includes lots of sing-alongs and silly hand motions. 1550 North Kingsbury Street, at Sheffield Avenue (312-587-0648). Admission is free.

Now beat it out of the house.

LOVE
Be My Valentine Family Event
What: Show affection with a brunch buffet, cookie decorating, a concert by Justin Roberts & the Not Ready for Naptime Players, and a performance of Pinkalicious: the Musical.
Why: It benefits Lynn Sage Cancer Research Foundation.
When: Sun., 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: The Ritz-Carlton Chicago, 160 E. Pearson St., at Michigan Ave. For tickets, call 312-926-7133 or email tlamar@nmh.org. Adults, $85; children, $55.

PLAY
Circus Zirkus
What: Kids make like acrobats and swing on a trapeze, dress up in costumes, and practice tumbling and balancing skills at the just-opened exhibit.
Why: It feels good to clown around.
When: Thru Aug. 12.
Where: Chicago Children’s Museum, 700 E. Grand Ave., at the Navy Pier (312-527-1000). Admission, $12.

BOUNCE
Sweets & Treats Valentine’s Day Celebration
What: Go bananas on inflatable slides and in jump houses, then enjoy a pizza dinner.
Why: A drop-off option is available for ages 5-13, so you can have a date night.
When: Fri., 6-9 p.m.
Where: Pump It Up, 821 W. Eastman St., at Dayton St. (312-664-7867). Children, $15; adults, $5. Drop-off, $25. Tickets online at pumpitupparty.com.

Photo: Courtesy of Mr. Singer

That Can-Do Spirit

2012-02-02T09:45:00Z

Armommy Homemade Accessories and DIYs

Moms who can, do. Moms who can’t, buy things that look like they do.

If you love the idea of homemade but lack the skills to make anything other than a bed, meet the moms of Armommy.

Mother-daughter duo Rae Friis and Jane Kelly started their brand after Rae called up Jane (her mommy) with an idea. She wanted a tank top to go under her shirts to help make breastfeeding in public a less revealing experience — and so the Empire Tank was born.

All of the company’s products have an equally charming, inventive, and whimsical feel. Our favorite is the Bumper, a small pillow you tie around door knobs to eliminate slammed doors and crushed fingers.

For those who want to DIY, a video series launches in April. The first classes will focus on home decorating and entertaining (think: fabric napkins, picnic blankets, and seat cushions). For those who can’t fathom using a needle and thread, the site is packed with customizable valentines for order and printables to download.

C’mon, even you can press print.

Available online at armommy.com, $4-$35.

Photo: lovestudiophoto.com / Courtesy of Armommy

19 New Books for Kids

2012-01-31T09:30:00Z

A Real Hamburger Helper

2012-01-30T09:45:00Z

Luca and Company's Little Helper FunPod

When it comes to cooking, you and your little are two peas in a pod.

A Little Helper FunPod, that is.

The genius contraption is a step up from your average stool and safer than standing on a chair. Just place the pod at the kitchen island or countertop edge — a good distance away from anything dangerous — and assign him kid-friendly kitchen tasks like mixing, stirring, or measuring. Four sturdy sides and an adjustable foot plate ensure that your sous chef is right in the heat of things but nowhere near the fire.

Your future Tyler Florence won’t even notice he’s on lockdown. The pod is designed to contain him, not the good times. And unlike other towers on the market, the modest footprint makes it a fit for small kitchens or apartment living.

We can hardly contain ourselves.

Available online at diapers.com, $190.

GLIDE
The Rink at The Charles Hotel
What: Teach your snowflake a few tricks or sign her up for lessons.
Why: You’re convinced her spins are gold medal worthy.
When: Thru Mar. 17. Mon.-Fri., 4-7 p.m.; Sat. & Sun., 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: 1 Bennett St., Cambridge (617-864-1200). Adults, $5; children, $3; skate rental, adults, $5; children, $3; lessons, $15-$35.

HOOT
Broadmoor Owl Festival
What: Learn facts about local species and meet the birds face to face.
Why: Search for them way up in the branches during the guided stroll.
When: Sat., 3-5:30 p.m.
Where: Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary, 280 Eliot St., Natick (508-655-2296). Reservations (required) online at massaudubon.org. Adults, $12-$18; children, $8-$10.

WATCH
Twists on Old Tails Winter Festival
What: Young performers act out Once upon a Mattress, Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, and Into the Woods.
Why: There’s not a drama queen in the bunch.
When: Wed.-Feb. 12. Schedule online at stonehamtheatre.org.
Where: Stoneham Theatre, 395 Main St., Stoneham. Tickets at 781-279-2200 or online at boxoffice.printtixusa.com. Adults, $10 thru Feb. 1, $15 after Feb. 1; children, $10.

Photo: Courtesy of Luca and Company

Creature Comforts

2012-01-30T09:45:00Z

Vivi Kids Tees and Onesies

Your toddler’s on a first-name basis with all the tees in his drawer: There’s Dino the dino, Roar the lion, and Stripey the shirt of last resort.

So he’ll have no problem warming up to Vivi Kids, a local T-shirt upstart whose charismatic creatures with enormous anime eyes brighten every design.

Originally made as baby shower gifts for friends of designers Vivien Choi and Tony Nguyen, the wares proved so popular they’re now in a handful of local boutiques. The creative couple still does all the silk screening in their home, adding new characters as they go.

With more than fifteen fetching animals to rotate through, from the familiar (frogs, elephants) to the less-so (seahorses, octopuses), one thing is certain — laundry day will be a real beast.

Available at Paragraph, 1234 Ninth Avenue, between Lincoln Way and Irving Street (415-759-1234); Perch, 654 Chenery Street, between Diamond and Carrie Streets (415-586-9000 or perchsf.com; Bella Blue Kids Couture, 549 Taraval Street, between 15th and 16th Avenues (415-702-9470 or bellabluekids.com); online at vivi-kids.com, $20.

MAKE
One-of-a-Kind Valentines
What: A card-making extravaganza for fams with tots 3 and up, snacks included.
Why: Handmade is from the heart.
When: Sat., 10 a.m.-noon.
Where: San Francisco Children’s Art Center, Fort Mason Center, Marina Blvd. & Buchanan St., bldg. c (415-771-0292). Register online at prestoregister.com. One adult with two children, $40; one adult with one child, $30; each additional child, $10.

LEARN
Summer Camp Fair
What: A meet-and-greet with more than 60 camps for pre-K kids on up.
Why: The lazy days are anything but.
When: Sat., 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Where: French American International School Gym, 151 Oak St., at Franklin St. (415-558-2000). Free.

LISTEN
Sunday Story Time
What: A new monthly series featuring the books that inspired Disney flicks, for ages 5-8.
Why: Reveal the magic behind the Magic Kingdom.
When: Sun., 3 p.m.
Where: The Walt Disney Family Museum, 104 Montgomery St., b/t Lincoln Blvd. & Sheridan Ave. (415-345-6800). Free with museum admission. Admission tickets at secure4.gatewayticketing.com. Adults, $20; children 6-17, $12; under 6, free.

Photo: Courtesy of Vivi Kids

Take Cover

2012-01-30T09:45:00Z

7 A.M. Enfant's Baby Shield

Come winter, you’re like the mailman. Neither snow, nor rain, nor gloom will keep you from delivering your little parcel to music class.

And considering how the mercury rises and falls with unseasonal abandon — that’s a tall order.

Allow us to introduce the Baby Shield. The latest innovation from 7 A.M. Enfant comes with two covers — a heavyweight quilted barrier for the most frigid days and a waterproof wind guard for more moderate temps. Easily interchangeable, the two options zip on and off faster than the jet stream dipping in from Canada.

Both covers can also be used independently as blankets (elastic straps hold them in place), for days when you make a last-minute switcheroo between stroller and car seat with no time to move the whole muff.

It’s just the thing to keep your tot going all winter. And keep you from going postal.

Available at Heights Kids, 93 Pineapple Walk, at Henry Street, Brooklyn Heights (718-222-4271); online at 7amenfant.com, $179-$219.

ACCESSORIZE
Sarah Graham Fingerprint Jewelry
What: In a rare NY appearance, the San Francisco-based metalsmith takes impressions of your children’s fingerprints to make into custom jewelry.
Why: Initial necklaces are so last year.
When: Tues., 4:30-6:30 p.m.
Where: Sprout San Francisco, 1375 Third Ave., b/t 78th & 79th Sts. (212-861-0670). Starting at $175; mention DailyCandy for 15 percent off.

WATCH
BAMkids Film Festival
What: Seventy-three films from 26 countries, all meant for the youngest cinephiles.
Why: Shorts programs each day offer hour-long lineups of mini movies.
When: Sat. & Sun., starting at 10 a.m.
Where: BAM Rose Cinemas, 30 Lafayette Ave., b/t Ashland Pl. & Saint Felix St. (718-636-4100). Tickets online at bam.org. Adults, $12; children, $9.

HEAR
Elizabeth Mitchell
What: Mitchell shares sweet folk-inspired sounds, performing with her husband and 10-year-old daughter.
Why: Beautiful renditions of songs by Woody Guthrie, Bob Marley, and the like.
When: Sun., 11 a.m.
Where: 92YTribeca, 200 Hudson St., b/t Canal & Vestry Sts. (212-601-1000). Tickets online at 92y.org. Adults and children, $15.

Photo: Courtesy of 7 A.M. Enfant

No Sitter? Get Creative

2012-01-30T09:45:00Z

Sitters Studio Babysitting Service

A babysitter needs a certain level of maturity — a lesson learned when you found one writing love tweets to Taylor Lautner while your kids zoned out in front of Jersey Shore.

Avoid the whole when-the-cat’s-away scenario with Sitters Studio. The local babysitting agency (with another location in NYC) works with sitters who are not only worldly and wise, but have an artistic talent to share. Depending on your interests, the agency can hire out any type of creative brain: visual artists, musicians, dancers, singers, and actors, to name a few.

Sitters arrive with a tote full of activities. So instead of watching TV (the agency has a no-television policy), your eager beaver can hear a guitar serenade, paint a masterpiece, dance ballet, or direct a play.

The agency doesn’t place permanent nannies, but helps with date-night relief, hourly stints, and overnights — all with only two hours’ notice. Just enough time to plan your escape.

Sitters Studio (312-890-8194 or sittersstudio.com), $18 per hour and up.

LAUGH
The ComedySportz Crew Meets Peter Pan
What: Improv actors give J.M. Barrie’s classic a funny retelling that encourages imagination.
Why: Kids get involved as honorary Lost Boys.
When: Thru Mar. 3. Sat., 11 a.m.
Where: The ComedySportz Theatre, 929 W. Belmont St., b/t Sheffield Ave. & Clark St. (773-549-8080). Adults, $10; kids, $7.

FROLIC
Polar Play Zone
What: Slip into a penguin suit and waddle around, shake hands with sea stars, and jump in a kid-size submarine.
Why: Arctic-themed fun without the frostbite.
When: Mon.-Fri., 9 a.m.-5 p.m.; Sat. & Sun., 9 a.m.-6 p.m.
Where: Shedd Aquarium, 1200 S. Lake Shore Dr., at Roosevelt Rd. (312-939-2438). Included in Shedd Pass admission. Adults, $29; children, $20.

LEARN
Developmental Differences Resource Fair
What: Meet experts and get information about parenting children with neurological or physical disease, dysfunction, or delay at Neighborhood Parents Network’s first-ever event.
Why: Leep Forward’s Lorell Marin talks about setting your child up for success.
When: Sat., 10 a.m.-2 p.m.
Where: Gordon Tech College Prep, 3633 N. California Ave., at Addison St. Free.

Photo: Thinkstock

The Core Issue

2012-01-30T09:45:00Z

Babylates Workouts at The Studio (MDR)

There was a time when straps and harnesses meant you were in for a hot date. But now that you’ve signed up for nine months of navel-gazing, you’re in no mood to get tied up.

Unless it’s part of the Babylates (that’s Pilates for the prenatal and postpregnancy set) class from The Studio (MDR). Trainer Jessi Piha has perfected a core curriculum that takes the focus off lengthening abs (which can cause stress and tearing during pregnancy) and redirects it toward strengthening the body to ensure a smooth delivery and easy recovery.

In group classes or private instruction, you’ll learn the ropes of the Megaformer through exercises that safely tone arms, your core, and that ever-expanding booty. And since the arrival of your bundle shifts your center of gravity — both physically and emotionally — devoting an hour to yourself may be just what you need to get back in the mood.

Or at least back into your jeans.

Available at The Studio (MDR), 330 West Washington Boulevard, at Sanborn Avenue, Marina Del Ray (310-561-9814 or thestudiomdr.com). Group classes, $40; private instruction, $100.

DELVE
Summer Opportunities Fair
What: Investigate more than 100 local and international day camps, travel groups, and summer schools to make June, July, and August fly by.
Why: You’re already planning those care packages.
When: Sat., 10 a.m.-3 p.m.
Where: Westridge School, 324 Madeline Dr., at Orange Grove Blvd. (626-799-1153). Free.

LEARN
American Indian Culture Day for Families
What: Scavenger hunts, guided tours, storytelling, and music tell the tale of America’s first families.
Why: This land is their land.
When: Sun., 1-5 p.m.
Where: The Autry in Griffith Park, 4700 Western Heritage Way, at Zoo Dr. (323-667-2000 ext. 252). Free with museum admission. Adults and teens, $10; children 3-12, $4; children under 3, free.

CREATE
Valentine’s CARds Workshop
What: Create auto-themed cards at this family workshop. Then stay and play with every manner of truck imaginable.
Why: It will drive them wild.
When: Sat., 1-4 p.m.
Where: Petersen Automotive Museum, 6060 Wilshire Blvd, at Fairfax Ave., 3rd flr. (323-930-2277). Adults, $10; children 5-12, $3; under 5, free.

Photo: Thinkstock