Highlights that I would suggest for the weekend are:

Events especially for Expectant Parents and New Parents: Baby Wearing, Cloth Diapering, NY Family’s New Parents Expo, Breastfeeding 101, Pelvic Floor Workshop, Baby Loves Mama Disco Party, Mother’s Day Party, Learn How to Raise a Good Sleeper with NYC Sleep Doctor, workshop on keeping your relationship up after baby,
Productions: Elephant at the New Vic (we loved), Wide Awake Jake at Tada! Theater, Tinkerbell Theater puts a twist on Cinderella and The Tinderbox with puppet- making workshops, (we’ll review next weekend), a new interactive high-tech exhibit called Tiger at South Street Seaport, Fancy Nancy ballet at Symphony Space, NYC Theater Ballet of Sleeping Beauty
Events: Learn to Ride a bike in DUMBO, Robotics and Lego Mindstorms at library, Bronx Zoo Extravaganza, Tribeca Family Festival, Go! Greenpoint Earth Festival, Sakura Matsuri at Brooklyn Botanic Gardens, plant sales (2), Brooklyn Food and Craft Fair, Kindie Fest, Hoboken Arts and Music Festival

Buy Tickets in advance to:

Friday, May 7: 10:30 am – 12: 30 pm: Mother’s Day Party
babybites Brooklyn is thrilled to be hosting a very special Mother’s Day Party this year to celebrate YOU and all that you have done for your family! You and your little one(s) will enjoy: open gym/play time in state of the art playspace,  musical performance by Miss Nina, professional photography of you and your little person(s), shoulder rubdowns by professional postnatal massage therapists (for mommies only!), yummy snacks and treats. One lucky mom in attendance will win a 45-Minute Full-Semester Class with a Silver Membership – valued at $621.21!
Details: For more details & to purchase a ticket, click here — http://brooklyn.babybites.com/brooklyn-events/special-events/

Saturday, May 8th: 11:30 am:  Baby Wearing
The With Woman Doula Coopertiva (www.nycdoulcoop.com) present their Baby Wearing Workshop (Hosted by Still Hip in Clinton Hill Brooklyn) We will go over the 5 different types of carriers (available for you to try on) and the specific brands available. From Mei Teis, wraps, ring slings, pocket slings, one shoulder vs. two shoulder carriers, soft vs. structured. We will discuss the pros and cons of each of the style of carriers available. We will concentrate on discovering the best carrier for you, your partner and your family’s needs.
Details: To register call 646.416.2992 or e-mail [email protected] At still hip 283 Grand Avenue Brooklyn, New York 11238 718.398.0008

Saturday, May 8th: 12 pm and 2 pm: Fancy Nancy
Cuyahoga Valley Youth Ballet returns to Symphony Space to present Fancy Nancy, with choreography by Francis Patrelle, Artistic Director of Dances Patrelle, and an original score by composer Patrick Soluri. Based on the Fancy Nancy book series by Jane O’Connor (author) and Robin Preiss Glasser (illustrator), this family favorite will take you along on a fanciful adventure with a precocious little girl.
Details: Peter Jay Sharp Theatre at Symphony Space. 2537 Broadway at 95th Street, New York, NY 10025-6990 Tel: 212.864.5400 Tix: $30 / $25 / $10; Members $26 / $22 / $9Buy tickets here.

Saturday, May 8th: 7 pm – 12 am: Co-Op School Gala and Auction
Featuring: Open bar & hors d’oeuvres, Dance party with music by DJ Drew, Live performances, Silent Auction to benefit the Co-Op School Scholarship Fund Ticket
Details: BAM Cafe at 30 Lafayette Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11217 P: (718) 636-4800  price: $75 To purchase tickets go to: thecoopschool.com

Saturday, May 15, 1:30 – 3 pm: Learn How to Raise a Good Sleeper
This 90-minute class by  NYC Sleep Doctor Janet K. Kennedy, Ph.D. is for new and expecting parents covers the fundamentals of raising a good sleeper.
You will learn: The basics of infant sleep patterns in the first year; How to make sure your child is well-rested; Soothing techniques for fussy babies; How to help your child learn to put herself to sleep; How to avoid excessive crying; How to address problems in sleep as they arise;…and how to keep the whole family well-rested!
Details: $50 single, $70 couple. Non-walking babies are welcome.  Class size is limited to allow plenty of time for Q & A. Call Gumbo to register. Gumbo   493 Atlantic Avenue (bet. Nevins & Third) Brooklyn 11217   718-855-7808

May 15, 16: NY Theater Ballet for Children
NYTheater Ballet’s hour-long ballets for children began in the 1980s when Diana Byer commissioned Keith Michael to create The Nutcracker. It proved so popular among family audiences that other ballets were developed to meet the demand. This innovative concept grew into NYTB’s current Once Upon a Ballet series. To date, NYTB has presented miniaturized versions of Cinderella, Carnival of the Animals, and The Firebird. Other works for the series are The Alice-in-Wonderland Follies and Mother GOOSE!. Perfect for ages 3-12. Upcoming performances: Carnival of the Animals & The Firebird – April 24, 25, 2010. Sleeping Beauty - May 15, 16, 2010.All performances held at the 400 seat, family-friendly Florence Gould Hall. Details: New York Theatre Ballet  30 East 31st Street, 5th Floor New York, NY 10016. http://www.nytb.org/2009-10-once-upon-a-ballet-series/?preview

Tuesday, May 18, 12-2 pm: Maintaining a good connection with your partner
Has new mommyhood had a less than ideal impact on the relationship between you and your spouse?  You are not alone!  But, here’s the good news — there is something that can be done about it. Please join us and Rachel Moheban,LCSW of The Relationship Suite, who will discuss how you can have a great relationship with your spouse even in the throes of new motherhood.  She will share practical techniques and strategies that you can begin to use right away to help manage stress and anger, rekindle romance and strengthen intimacy as well as communicate more effectively with your partner. One very lucky mom will win dinner for two (date night!) at Barrio in Park Slope.
Details: $35 in advance, $40 at the door. RSVP to: [email protected] PLACE: Barrio, 210 7th Ave., Park Slope

May 7-23, 2010: PaGAGnini at the New Victory
Mozart, Chopin, Pachelbel – and even U2 – take on a new tenor when performed by Armenian virtuoso Ara Malikian and company in Yllana’s award-winning, music/comedy show PaGAGnini, from May 7 through May 23, 2010 at The New Victory Theater. With hilarious twists on symphonic treasures and modern melodies alike, this wordless concert is a delightful marriage of music and comedy.  What starts out as a serious classical concert soon turns into hilarious chaos when the maestro loses control of the mischievous quartet.  Winner of the Best Show at the 2008 Edinburgh Festival Fringe and the Moerser Comedy Prize at the 2009 International Comedy Arts Festival, PaGAGnini’s interpretations are simply ingenious.
Details: Tickets for members cost $24.50 (orchestra), $17.50 (mezzanine) and $8.75 (balcony).  Tickets for non-members cost $35 (orchestra), $25 (mezzanine) and $12.50 (balcony). Buy them online at www.newvictory.org

Friday, May 7th, 6:30pm-10pmL PS11 PTA’s 3^rd Annual Silent Auction and Wine Tasting
This year’s wine tasting, hosted by neighborhood wine shop owner of Gnarly Vines, will feature a showdown between men verses women wine makers.  We will have a beer bar sponsored by Brooklyn Brewery and free and delicious food and beverages donated by local restaurants and grocers.  Live music will be provided by a Brooklyn based deejay and producer, Dj Dhundee. Each year many great prizes are donated by local businesses for our silent auction, live auction, or chance pick-a-prize raffle -from clothing and jewelry, to vacation get-a-ways, to hot tickets to a game and/or live music show. This is a great opportunity to meet the Principal Alonta Wrighton and mingle with both current and prospective PS 11 parents.
Details: Lafayette Avenue Presbyterian Church at 85 S. Oxford Street. Tickets: $10 at the door, $20 for the Wine Tasting and Beer Bar.  Please visit PS11Brooklyn.org to purchase tickets or make a donation to the auction.

Sat, May 15, 2010, 10:30am—12:30pm: BAMfamily Book Brunch: LaChanze and Brian Pinkney
A star of both stage and screen, Tony Award-winning actress LaChanze brings her talent to the world of children’s books with Little Diva. Together with illustrator and Caldecott honoree Brian Pinkney, she has created a picture book that celebrates the importance of family bonds, hard work, and dreaming big. Following a continental brunch, LaChanze will read from the book and sing the original Little Diva song. The event will conclude with a book signing. Recommended for ages 4—8
Details: BAMcafé  $15 for adults; $10 for children 15 and under (includes brunch, tax, and tip). Part of BAMfamily

July 21- July 25: Walking with Dinosaurs at Radio City
We went to this last year with our 2.5 year old. It was definitely too intense for him. We took him in and out of theater as he expressed wanting to leave and then wanting to go back in. We sat way way in the back so it didn’t feel as scary, but these life-sized dinosaurs are very realistic not only in size, but in sound. I would recommend it for ages 4 or 5 years up (depending on your child).  “Dinosaurs once again roam the earth in a spectacular theatrical arena show,  based on the award-winning BBC Television Series. Internationally renowned designers have worked with scientists to create 15 life-size dinosaurs, including the terror of the ancient terrain, Tyrannosaurus-rex! Be amazed and thrilled as the greatest creatures ever to walk the earth return before your eyes. It’s a dazzling 10 million pound arena spectacle of unprecedented size and quality set to captivate young and old alike. Marvel at the story of their 200 million year domination of life on earth. Watch them walk. Hear the roar. Be there as they fight for survival and supremacy. From the ripple of their skin to the glint in their eye, you will know the dinosaurs really have returned! So make sure you have your seat to see the return of the dinosaurs!”
Details: Tickets range from $35 to 99. http://www.radiocity.com/events/walking-with-dinosaurs-708.html

Performances and Exhibits:

Through Sunday, May 2: Elephant
You have never seen elephants like the ones playing at the New Victory Theater in Times Square. These life-size puppets of mother and baby elephant are as ephemeral as the fabrics they are made of, as strong as their massive bodies suggest and as anthropomorphic as the human legs that propel them. In short, these stunningly constructed elephants elicit our most tender feelings.  The new production “Elephant” at New Victory Theater was created by 2 companies: The Dodgy Clutch from the UK and The Market Theatre from Johannesburg, South Africa.  Their dynamic collaboration results in a lively 75 minute show of energetic dancing, rhythmic singing and powerful storytelling. An African chief is exuberant as he reaches the gates of heaven, anxious to gain entry for what he believes was a judiciously lived life. When he is denied access, he turns to his elders to ask them why he has been left outside. They entreat him to revisit his life. As we flash back with him and the devil as his companion, we see the fiercely competitive relationship that he developed with his brother. As a young boy, the Chief-to-be was jealous of his brother’s ability to communicate with the elephants.  The Chief-to-be also incorrectly suspects his brother of philandering with his wife.  To spite his brother and also to make himself known as a “man”, the prospective Chief takes up his gun and kills one of the elephants that his brother treasures.  The mother elephant dies and the baby elephant is orphaned. The young Chief feels no remorse. The ghost of the Chief however does, and repents this horrific act. With this newfound penance,  the mother elephant is raised from the dead and is reunited with her baby.  The story is a simple one, yet compellingly told by the two dancers as brothers, the cast of elders, the devil and the Chief.   The voice of the chief has a warm tone and the elders are powerful in their combined chorus of expressing the joys and pain of his life.  The Devil is appropriately portrayed as slick and convincing.  The dancing is exciting to watch as is the percussionist who moves among his instruments onstage.  The lighting and costumes are vibrant and serve to illustrate the changes in both mood and time.  The elephants, however steal the show with their billowing flesh and vulnerability. They are magical to watch.  Although the storyline can be upsetting for children, it is treated in a sensitive way. This performance is recommended for ages 7 years and up and I would be sure that your child can handle the subject matter, regardless of age.  The adults in the audience were particularily appreciative of such a compelling and sophisticated production that affected both them and their children in a positive way. I have never heard an audience clap so enthusiastically at the New Vic, and some gave a standing ovation. It was a memorable production and worth rushing to get tickets to before it leaves after May 2nd.
Details: Tickets for members cost $24.50 (orchestra), $17.50 (mezzanine) and $8.75 (balcony).  Tickets for non-members cost $35 (orchestra), $25 (mezzanine) and $12.50 (balcony). Buy them online at www.newvictory.org

From April 24th- January 15: TIGERS – The Exhibition: Tracking A Legend
An exhilarating, high-tech, hands-on exploration into the compelling world of the awe-inspiring tiger and its habitat, the exhibition immerses visitors in an interactive, sensory stimulating, fun adventure that will change the way you see tigers forever, and leave a lasting impression on people of all ages.
Details: Pier 17 at the South Street Seaport. Open daily from Friday-Saturday 10:00am-9:00pm(last entry at 8:00pm) Sunday- Thursday 10:00am-8:00pm (last entry at 7:00pm). Tickets prices range from $12-$17 with group discounts available. Family Packages are available (2 Adults & 2 Children) $46 ($48 weekends). Plan ahead and preorder TIGERS patches, DVDs and books. For the first time ever in New York City, opens on April 24, 2010, on Exhibit information and ticket info: www.TIGERSNYC.com www.Ticketmaster.com 1-800-745-3000

April 16- May 23rd: TADA’s new production: Wide Awake Jake
The story of a little boy who simply can’t fall asleep, and the adventures he encounters on his quest for slumber. Join Jake, along with Mary and Amy, as they meet a lion, a dragon, a giant, and discover how fun and easy YAWN POWER can be! The play runs through May 23.
Details: General tickets are $20 for adults and $8 for children. Premium tickets are $25 for adults and $15 for children. Tickets can be purchased online at www.tadatheater.com or by calling (212) 252-1619 x 128. 15 West 28th Street, 3rd Floor 212-252-1619

Ongoing thru August: Prospect Park’s Carousel is open!
This is one of our favorite spring/summer activities. The carousel is sweet and $2 a ride- not cheap but manageable.
Details: Open thru April 6th: 12-4 pm and then on Saturdays and Sunday ONLY April 10-May 30: 12-5 pm. In June: Thurs-Sunday 12-5 pm and until 6 pm in July and August. In Prospect Park at Flatbush Ave at Empire Blvd. $2 a ride. ProspectPark.org

Through May 9, 2010: Tinkerbell Theater
Featuring sing-along songs by Ted Zurkowski and playful puppets by Spica Wobbe, Tinkerbell Theater is putting on 2 performances for kids:
CINDERELLA (program A)
The story of a young girl dispossessed by her murderous Stepmother and wicked Stepsisters. Will Cinderella’s friendship with two magical birds help her go to the Three Day Ball? Will she get to meet the charming Prince Dreamboat and compare notes with him on Ornithology? Will the King and Queen finally be able to retire to Boca? And what about that slipper?
THE TINDERBOX (program B)
A Pure-hearted Soldier, an enchanted forest, a Wicked Witch, a Beautiful (but lonesome) Princess, three unforgettable Dogs, and a magical Tinderbox bring you whatever your heart desires…with hilarious results!
Saturdays at 10:30 am and Sundays at 11:45 am – Program A
Sundays at 10:30 am and Saturdays at 11:45 am – Program B
Running Time: 45 minutes.
All performances are followed by a puppet-making workshop.
Details: Tickets are $10 in advance online and $12 at the door. Available online at www.smarttix.com or by calling (212) 868-4444. Tickets may also be purchased in-person at the theater ½ hour prior to the performance. Website: www.frogandpeachtheatre.org

Though August 1: Curious George Saves the Day
So, a preface: I have heard this exhibit is only 2 rooms, very small and a yawn for kids. They like the craft room, but otherwise, it’s apparently an uninspiring exhibit.  Curious George, the beloved, irrepressible monkey of children’s book lore, is famous for his ability to “save the day.” Interpreting the role he played in safeguarding his own creators in times of danger as symbolic, this exhibition delves into the remarkable lives and works of Margret and H. A. Rey. The couple fled Paris in 1940 with a Curious George manuscript in their suitcase. During a tense inspection of their belongings by a border official, children’s illustrations were found and they were allowed to continue on their way, eventually reaching the United States. Featuring nearly eighty original drawings and preparatory dummies for Margret and H. A. Rey children’s books and documentation related to their escape from Nazi-occupied Europe, the exhibition will examine the parallels between the obstacles the Reys faced and the drawings that may have saved their lives.

Details: The Jewish Museum at 1109 5th Ave at 92nd St, New York NY

Through Sept 2nd: Lizards and Snakes: Alive! and Butterflies and Journey to the Stars at the American Museum of Natural History
Just think: 60 plus lizards and snakes in the flesh! Your tots will probably love this exhibit with opportunities to “spy” the reptiles in their habitat.  Enter the lovely (and warm) exhibit of the live butterflies in the Butterfly Conservatory for an escape from winter. See the all-new Space Show “Journey to the Stars”, narrated by Whoopi Goldberg and travel 13 billion years into the past, when the first stars were born.  The Silk Road is a new exhibit I haven’t seen yet- but might be worth a look. Details: Adults: $16 Children (2-12): $9 Central Park West at 79^th Street. http://www.amnh.org/

Event Picks:

Saturday, May 1st:

Saturday, May 1st: 10 am- 6 pm: Brooklyn Botanic Garden – Sakura Matsuri
The Japanese tradition of viewing cherry blossoms throughout the season culminates with pink blossoms that fall like snow at Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s cherry blossom festival – Sakura Matsuri.  Come learn about Japanese culture, traditional and contemporary, with more than 60 performances, demonstrations and exhibits of music, dance, martial arts, manga and anime art and workshops.  Kids favorites include: Hands-on workshops for kids, inspired by both horticulture and Japanese culture, including an exploration into tea, taiko drumming, and creating blossoms out of reusable materials; a hanagasa odori flower hat parade that children can join in; a children’s Suzuki recital from Brooklyn College’s Preparatory Center featuring “Sakura, Sakura” and other pieces for strings; a Sakura tattoo parlor where kids can get temporarily inked, Sakura-style.  All activities take place rain or shine, with indoor locations provided for most activities in the event of rain.  For full schedule, go here.
Details: $15 adults and $10 seniors and students with ID; kids under 12 are admitted free of charge. Visit www.bbg.org. or call 718-623-7333.

Saturday, May 1st: 6-9 pm: May Day Family Dance
Old First Reformed Church’s annual fundraising dance will have live music by Ethan Schlesser, The Bilger Family band and food. Childcare for children under 5 years is available.
Details: $25 for a family of 2, $10 for each additional person which includes dinner and a beverage. Reservations for childcare are requested. Old First Reformed Church at corner of Carroll Street and 7th Ave, Park Slope, 718-638-8300.

Saturday, May 1st: 11 am- 7 pm: Brooklyn Food and Craft Fair
This year’s fair will be expanding into both 4,000 square foot levels of the building –  former NYC Public Bath #7 – at the Brooklyn Lyceum. This market will highlight the full expansive array of fantastic, artisanal goods available all throughout the Northeast. Clothing, clocks, art, gifts, jams, chocolates, cheeses, craft beer.  There will be workshops and Demos – Learn to bind a book or grab a basic lesson in chocolate making, among many others. Workshop schedule is here, but here are a couple I picked out.
11:30am-12pm
Recycled Collagraph Printing Plate Creation and Texture Rubbings
Budding artists age 2-4 will learn how to create their own recycled collagraph printing plates, using a variety of recycled materials. Students will then create mixed-media texture rubbings of their plates, using crayons, oil pastels and watercolors. $5/child . To enroll, visit http://www.bkcraftcentral.com/workshops.html
12:30-1pm
Romare Bearden-Inspired Cityscapes
Petite Picassos age 4-6 will get inspiration from the artwork of Romare Bearden to create their own mixed-media cityscapes, using a variety of drawing and collage materials. $5/child . To enroll, visit http://www.bkcraftcentral.com/workshops.html
Details: Brooklyn Lyceum – 227 4th Avenue (btw. Union and President), Brooklyn, NY

Saturday, May 1st: 10 am- 6 pm: Tribeca Family Festival Street Fair
Come celebrate on Greenwich Street, in Washington Market Park,  at Church Street School for Music and Art and at BMCC in Tribeca- all featuring free performances and activities, local merchants and more. You can catch a premiere of a family-friendly film too. check out the Gazillion Bubble  Garden, face painting, arts and crafts, a sand sculptor, the kite garden, storytelling, a puppet show and tons more!
Details: http://www.tribecafilm.com/ For the full schedule and map go here.

Saturday, May 1st: 10 am- 4 pm: PS 20 Spring Fling Flea Market
Support the school by vising the flea market and buying from various vendors around the schoolyard.  The Spring Fling bunny will hop on by and there will be arts and crafts, face painting and music.
Details: PS 20 The Clinton Hill School, 225 Adelphi St (at Willoughby) in Clinton Hill. http://www.ps20.org

Saturday, May 1st: 2-4 pm: Robotics and Lego MindStorms NXT
Ever wondered about how the MindStorms NXT robotics kit works? Come to the BPL Brooklyn Heights branch for an in-depth demonstration and discussion about robotics. Karl Abdelnour, a doctoral candidate in Mechanical Engineering at NYU Polytechnic, will provide a hands-on session building and programming Lego robots. Karl will demonstrate how basic computer programming skills can greatly expand the functionality of MindStorm robots. Discussion will also focus on basic principles of physics as well as electrical concepts using home built circuits.
Details: For information or to RSVP e-mail [email protected] Brooklyn Public Library, Brooklyn Heights Branch, 280 Cadman Plaza West (718-623-7100)  Sponsored by Mechatronics @ NYU Polytechnic and LIU Children’s Academy

Saturday, May 1st: 1 pm- 4 pm: Learn to Ride in DUMBO
Bike New York has a “Learn to ride” class for kids that teaches  using a”balance first” method.  They take off the bike pedals, let kids feel balance, steering and how to do it with control.  The instructors will also teach you how to get a proper helmet. I have heard that most kids can learn how to ride a bike in this one day workshop!
Details: DUMBO Brooklyn (Sign up and map are  here). For other upcoming locations, check our post here.

Saturday, May 1st, 10:00 -11:30 am: Breastfeeding 101
Breastfeeding is one of the greatest gifts you can give your baby. For many women it’s easier said than done. Knowing what to expect, and getting help right from the start, are the keys to success. Join us for this very special event with lactation consultant Andrea Syms-Brown, IBCLC, RLC, CIMI, of Baby in the Family, who has over 20 years experience supporting breastfeeding mothers and their babies.  In addition to learning essential tips about breastfeeding, you will:meet and connect with other soon-to-be moms, enjoy a yummy bagel brunch, and get to shop at a 20% discount (special only for moms in attendance at this event) at Brooklyn’s very own designer maternity resale boutique — Madison Rose
Details: $25 (prepayment required) PLACE: Madison Rose, 313 Court Street, Carroll Gardens RSVP: [email protected]

Saturday, April 24: Bronx Zoo puts on a show
Over the course of the 13-weekend extravaganza, renowned children’s authors from notable publishers and will be hosting special story-time readings of their books at the Asia Plaza Theater.  Families will be able to meet their favorite children’s book authors and listen to them read their new and classic works then head over to New York Life’s Main Stage on Astor Court for live entertainment by some of the top-rated children’s entertainers.  And don’t forget about the legendary Bronx Zoo animal entertainers.  Families can introduce their babies to the newest members of the Bronx Zoo family – the baby mandrill, Gertrude, in Congo Gorilla Forest; Ares, the new baby Coquerel’s Sifaka in the Madagascar! exhibit; and the new Galapagos tortoises in the Reptile House. Kids can walk through larger-than-life pages of real books including The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle at the Butterfly Garden and Alphabet by Matthew Van Fleet at the Reptile House.  At the Bear Overlook, walk through the new children’s book, Moon Bear, by Brenda Z. Guiberson and award-winning illustrator, Ed Young and enjoy a wild ride with Wild About Books by Judy Sierra at Astor Court.
11am, 1pm: Jasmine Sagginario, Radio Disney’s  “N.B.T.” (Next Big Thing) Winner
Fifteen-year-old pop singer Jasmine Sagginario is a fun twenty-first century girl is no doubt hip to the times—yeah, she’s on Facebook—but she can also think and act beyond the times as indicated by the title track on her irresistibly danceable debut release, Next Me. At New York Life’s Main Stage – Disney Entertainment
11am, 1pm, 3pm: Panda & Polar Bear, read by author Matthew J. Baek (Penguin Group USA) – A little polar bear wonders what’s beyond his wintry world—and when he falls over the edge of an ice cliff, he finds out. He is soon befriended by a panda who mistakes the mud-covered polar bear for one of his own.  The two become quick pals. But what happens when the polar bear’s muddy splotches wash off? Will the two bears stay friends? at Wild Asia Plaza – Author Appearance/Reading
Details: The Wildlife Conservation Society’s Bronx Zoo is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., 5:30 p.m. on weekends and holidays. Adult admission is $15, children (3-12 years old) $11, children under 3 are free, seniors (65+) are $13. Parking is $12 for cars and $16 for buses. The Bronx Zoo is conveniently located off the Bronx River Parkway at Exit 6; by train via the #2 or #5 or by bus via the #9, #12, #19, #22, MetroNorth, or BxM11 Express Bus service (from Manhattan that stops just outside the gate.) To plan your trip, visit www.bronxzoo.com or call 718-367-1010.

Saturday, May 1st: 10am – 5 pm: Brooklyn Flea
The Flea will stay in the Williamsburg Savings Bank on Sundays and return to their outdoor location at the Ft. Greene school yard of Bishop Loughlin on Saturdays. There will no longer be a flea market in DUMBO, because as Brownstoner posted, ” construction along Water Street has created too many potential headaches for a regular market underneath the Brooklyn Bridge this year.” Location of Brooklyn Flea at Ft. Greene market.

Saturday, May 1st: 10:30 AM: Storytime at Greenlight Bookstore
Spend a winter morning at Greenlight Bookstore in Ft. Greene, Brooklyn in the back of their store. It’s a cute way to meet other families and browse for yourself! Just in time for Mother’s Day, Brooklyn-based author Rob Walker reads from his beautiful and moving book Mama Says. With poems in many languages and illustrations showing mothers and sons from around the world, Mama Says celebrates the wisdom and power of mothers. Join us for a reading and signing with Rob.
Details: 686 Fulton Street  Brooklyn, NY 11217-1699  (718) 246-0200.  Seating is first come, first served. Closest subways are the C to Lafayette, G to Fulton, or any train to Atlantic/Pacific; click here for a map. Fort Greene.

Saturday, May 1st from 11 am-2 pm: Plant sale fundraiser at the Urban Meadow
Urban Meadow, a community garden on the corner of President Street and Van Brunt Streets will have annuals (African marigolds, cosmos, portulacas, impatiens and more), perennials (daylilies! lavender! echinacea!) basil and tomatoes including some interesting heirloom types – all at great low prices. Perfect for window boxes, yards, tree pits, and Mother’s Day gifts. All proceeds from the sale will go toward Meadow maintenance and events.

Saturday, May 1st : 11:30am: $10: Cloth Diapering Workshop
The With Woman Doula Coopertiva (www.nycdoulcoop.com) present their May Cloth Diapering Workshop (Hosted by Still Hip in Clinton Hill Brooklyn) At our Cloth Diaper workshop we will discuss and peruse through different styles of diapers, pros and cons of each, and how they might fit into your daily life – along with your daily budget! We will explain simple ways to care for your diapers along with how to diaper on the go and make it easy for other caretakers. Come with questions or come skeptical…we are ready to support you as you decide whether cloth diapering all or part of the time may be a good choice for you and your family.
Details: To register call 646.416.2992 or e-mail [email protected] At still hip 283 Grand Avenue Brooklyn, New York 11238 718.398.0008

Saturday, May 1st: 10:30 am to 3 pm: The Annual Cobble Hill Tree Fund Plant Sale [The rain date is Sunday, May 2nd.]
On sale will be annuals, herbs, tomato plants, geraniums, and a selection  of perennials in Cobble Hill Park.
Details: The plant sale is in front of the park located on Clinton between Amity and Verandah Pl. in Cobble Hill. http://www.chtreefund.org

Saturday, May 1, from 11 am to 2 pm: New York Family’s New Parents Expo
Free event that includes giveaways and exhibitors that will have a full range of goods and services for families in NYC and Brooklyn.  Infants and toddlers can enjoy interactive games with the Gazillion Bubbles Show and other musical guests.
Details: Register at www.newyorkfamily.com to qualify for the great raffles and goody bag. Location is at The Corner ( a new building) at 200 West 72nd street and Broadway, 2nd Floor.

Sunday, May 2nd:

Sunday, May 2: 12 pm – 4 pm: Kindie Fest Festival
Kindie Fest is a 3 day weekend music conference that, although industry-only for the first two days, culminates in the Kindie Fest Festival that opens to the public.  And what an awesome festival it will be! They have lined up some of the best family acts in the country…..and it’s happening in our fair borough of Brooklyn.  The tickets are a good deal at $15 for a full day pass to see all six bands. More information can be found at www.kindiefest.com http://www.achildgrows.com/2010/04/26/kindie-fest-festival-will-rock-you-this-weekend/
Details: Littlefield NYC  622 Degraw  Brooklyn NY, 11217 http://www.littlefieldnyc.com Tickets are $15 (free for infants): buy them here. Doors will open at 11:30. Showtime 12-4

Sunday, May 2nd: 10 am- 7 pm: Brooklyn Botanic Garden – Sakura Matsuri
The Japanese tradition of viewing cherry blossoms throughout the season culminates with pink blossoms that fall like snow at Brooklyn Botanic Garden’s cherry blossom festival – Sakura Matsuri.  Come learn about Japanese culture, traditional and contemporary, with more than 60 performances, demonstrations and exhibits of music, dance, martial arts, manga and anime art and workshops.  Kids favorites include: Hands-on workshops for kids, inspired by both horticulture and Japanese culture, including an exploration into tea, taiko drumming, and creating blossoms out of reusable materials; a hanagasa odori flower hat parade that children can join in; a children’s Suzuki recital from Brooklyn College’s Preparatory Center featuring “Sakura, Sakura” and other pieces for strings; a Sakura tattoo parlor where kids can get temporarily inked, Sakura-style.  All activities take place rain or shine, with indoor locations provided for most activities in the event of rain.  For full schedule, go here.
Details: $15 adults and $10 seniors and students with ID; kids under 12 are admitted free of charge. Visit www.bbg.org. or call 718-623-7333.

Sunday, May 2nd: Bronx Zoo puts on a show
Over the course of the 13-weekend extravaganza, renowned children’s authors from notable publishers and will be hosting special story-time readings of their books at the Asia Plaza Theater.  Families will be able to meet their favorite children’s book authors and listen to them read their new and classic works then head over to New York Life’s Main Stage on Astor Court for live entertainment by some of the top-rated children’s entertainers.  And don’t forget about the legendary Bronx Zoo animal entertainers.  Families can introduce their babies to the newest members of the Bronx Zoo family – the baby mandrill, Gertrude, in Congo Gorilla Forest; Ares, the new baby Coquerel’s Sifaka in the Madagascar! exhibit; and the new Galapagos tortoises in the Reptile House. Kids can walk through larger-than-life pages of real books including The Very Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle at the Butterfly Garden and Alphabet by Matthew Van Fleet at the Reptile House.  At the Bear Overlook, walk through the new children’s book, Moon Bear, by Brenda Z. Guiberson and award-winning illustrator, Ed Young.
11:30am, 2pm: Aaron Nigel Smith – A fun, inspired, and lively show guaranteed to get the audience off their feet.  His songs have been described by PBS as “some of the best targeted music for kids today.”  Aaron’s performance was so well received during his live tour that he was asked to join the award-winning TV show Between the Lions. At New York Life’s Main Stage – Musical Performance
11am, 1pm: Roly Poly Pangolin, read by author Anna Dewdney (Penguin Group USA) – Roly Poly is a little pangolin who’d rather stick close to his mama instead of facing anything unfamiliar.  Whether it’s a line of ants, a friendly monkey, or a loud noise, Roly Poly runs the other way.  Then he hears something that really scares him so he does what all pangolins do when they’re frightened – he rolls up into a tiny ball.  Roly Poly is surprised when he finally peeks out; because another ball is peeking back – a small pangolin just like him. At Wild Asia Plaza – Author Appearance/Reading
Details: The Wildlife Conservation Society’s Bronx Zoo is open daily from 10:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., 5:30 p.m. on weekends and holidays. Adult admission is $15, children (3-12 years old) $11, children under 3 are free, seniors (65+) are $13. Parking is $12 for cars and $16 for buses. The Bronx Zoo is conveniently located off the Bronx River Parkway at Exit 6; by train via the #2 or #5 or by bus via the #9, #12, #19, #22, MetroNorth, or BxM11 Express Bus service (from Manhattan that stops just outside the gate.) To plan your trip, visit www.bronxzoo.com or call 718-367-1010.

Sunday, May 2 from 10am-2pm: Plant sale fundraiser at the Urban Meadow
Urban Meadow, a community garden on the corner of President Street and Van Brunt Streets will have annuals (African marigolds, cosmos, portulacas, impatiens and more), perennials (daylilies! lavender! echinacea!) basil and tomatoes including some interesting heirloom types – all at great low prices. Perfect for window boxes, yards, tree pits, and Mother’s Day gifts. All proceeds from the sale will go toward Meadow maintenance and events.

Every Sunday – 10am-12pm: Weeding and Seeding at the Urban Meadow
Starting a couple Sundays ago, community members have been out at the Urban Meadow (on the corner of President and Van Brunt) pulling weeds, planting plants and trees, cleaning up, and helping with general site maintenance. There is still more to be done! Come out this weekend (or any Sunday in April) and help get the Meadow ready for the season’s great upcoming events. Events on the horizon include: Folk festival, Jazz concerts, a kids concert, free yoga classes, and much more. More details here.

Sunday, May 2nd: 10am – 5 pm: Brooklyn Flea
The Flea will stay in the Williamsburg Savings Bank on Sundays and return to their outdoor location at the Ft. Greene school yard of Bishop Loughlin on Saturdays. There will no longer be a flea market in DUMBO, because as Brownstoner posted, ” construction along Water Street has created too many potential headaches for a regular market underneath the Brooklyn Bridge this year.” Location of Brooklyn Flea at Ft. Greene market.

Sunday May 2: 1 – 8 pm: Irish Arts Center New York Dance 2010
The Irish Arts Center is back in the park with its 9th annual celebration of traditional Irish dance and music, featuring performances by stars of the Irish dance world and NY area dance schools. Join in on the fun with live music, workshops in traditional Irish dance for all skill levels, a singer’s circle, Irish language classes, face-painting, children’s craft table and more! This program is supported, in part, by public funds from the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs, and by the New York State Council on the Arts, a public agency.
Details: Pier I @ 70th St, Upper West Side. Event is free. visit www.riversideparkfund.org.

Sunday, May 2nd: 11 am- 7 pm: Brooklyn Food and Craft Fair
This year’s fair will be expanding into both 4,000 square foot levels of the building –  former NYC Public Bath #7 – at the Brooklyn Lyceum. This market will highlight the full expansive array of fantastic, artisanal goods available all throughout the Northeast. Clothing, clocks, art, gifts, jams, chocolates, cheeses, craft beer.  There will be workshops and Demos – Learn to bind a book or grab a basic lesson in chocolate making, among many others. Workshop schedule is here, but here are a couple I picked out.
11:30am-12pm
Recycled Collagraph Printing Plate Creation and Texture Rubbings
Budding artists age 2-4 will learn how to create their own recycled collagraph printing plates, using a variety of recycled materials. Students will then create mixed-media texture rubbings of their plates, using crayons, oil pastels and watercolors. $5/child . To enroll, visit http://www.bkcraftcentral.com/workshops.html
12:30-1pm
Romare Bearden-Inspired Cityscapes
Petite Picassos age 4-6 will get inspiration from the artwork of Romare Bearden to create their own mixed-media cityscapes, using a variety of drawing and collage materials. $5/child . To enroll, visit http://www.bkcraftcentral.com/workshops.html
Details: Brooklyn Lyceum – 227 4th Avenue (btw. Union and President), Brooklyn, NY

Sunday, May 2nd: 11 am- 4 pm: Go Green! Greenpoint!
Town Square’s third annual Go Green! Greenpoint Earth Day festival will have over 70 schools, community groups, companies, and government agencies that will offer exhibits and merchandise, designed to enhance our understanding and appreciation of ourselves, our environment and the Earth that we all share.  There will be activities for kids and kids at heart including soccer tips by FC Select Soccer, tumbling games by the Gym Park, chess challenges by the IS 318 Champions, an obstacle course by Ms J, interactive art projects by NY Creative Arts Therapists, judo activities by Sylvester Gawel Judo Club, earth-friendly arts & crafts by Spacecraft, and Box City.  Greencycle Swap. We urge you to drop off your cleaned and gently used clothes, shoes, bedding, toys, and books.  We’re also taking in bicycles & electronics (in working order please!) and computers (both working and non-working).  Do browse through the selection and cart away as much as your heart desires.  All remaining items will be donated to Goodwill.  CitiStorage will also be on hand if you’d like to dispose of those highly sensitive documents in a secure and professional manner.  Art, Science & Writing Contests. Writing submissions were due this past Friday.  However, art & science contest submissions are due at 11 am on the day of the event and should be brought to the Town Square tent.  Blood Drive. The NY Blood Center will be on hand to run a blood drive.  Your donation will most surely save a life – and that life could be your own! Live Music & Performances featuring Alex Smith and Mike Mizwinski, Baby Soda, Jonathan Samson, the Gym Park Gymnasts, Pat Hull, the Polish American Folk Dancers, and Sylvester Gawel Judo Club. For further information visit www.townsquareinc.com

Sunday, May 2nd: 12- 3 pm: Baby Loves Mama!
We all know Baby Loves Mama, and if Mama Loves Disco, Baby Loves Disco too! Celebrate the whole fam this May and come on out to Le Poisson Rouge for Baby Loves Disco!mMacaroni Kid is bringin’ the ink with temporary tats for the tots while Jessica Mellow paints their faces with the colors of spring and other things!  We’ll have cool cereal crafts and make-your-own mother’s day cards.  Gazillion adds to the fun with bubbles for everyone!  Of course, it wouldn’t be the Disco without yummies from Snikiddy, Plum Organics and Revolution Foods! And we haven’t forgotten you, Mama — there will be gift cards to 1800 Flowers, a chance to win family ticket packs to the Bronx Zoo, $100 gift cards to Capture Yourself Photography!
Details: All walking humans must buy tickets- crawlers are free. For kids aged 6 months to 7 years. $15 per walking human, in advance, $18 at the door, on the day of event. Buy tickets here.

Sunday, May 2nd: 11 am- 6 pm: Hoboken Arts and Music Festival
I have always wanted to visit Hoboken- so this would be a great opportunity.  The fair will take place on Washington Street between Observer Highway and 7th Street and will include over 300 artists, crafters, photographers, local businesses, restaurants, food vendors and more. Three stages of live music will feature performances by Fountains of Wayne, Freedy Johnston, The Doughboys, Jack Skuller, Verdict, and more. A special Kids Zone on 3rd Street in the Capital One parking lot will include performances, rides, games, face painting and more.
Details: Click here for the full performance schedule and additional details. There are bus advisories for the weekend, check them out here.

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