Highlights that I would suggest for the weekend are:

Events especially for Expectant Parents and New Parents: Cloth Diapering and Baby Wearing Workshops, Bump Brooklyn’s sale and free ice cream, Mother’s Day Party, Learn How to Raise a Good Sleeper with NYC Sleep Doctor, workshop on keeping your relationship up after baby
Productions: Wide Awake Jake at Tada! (it’s adooorable!), 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 Bay Ridge, Bronx Zoo Extravaganza, BAM Block Party and Groundbreaking, Bklyn Designs (cool designs fair) in conjunction with Brooklyn Bridge Park Spring Fling, Family Folk Dance, Story and Yogatime at Greenlight Bookstore, Sheep shearing at Prospect Park Zoo, panel discussion on the War On Moms.

Buy Tickets in advance to:

Thursday, May 13: 6:30-8:30 pm: The War on Moms
Momasphere and Park Slope Parents Career Networking presents an intriguing book launch and panel discussion with Sharon Lerner, author of The War on Moms: On Life in a Family Un-Friendly Nation. With life harder on American families than it’s been in decades, the book takes the blame away from moms and puts it where it really belongs. Leading work/life balance and legal/policy experts will join Sharon for an illuminating evening. You won’t want to miss this relevant discussion! Wine and snacks will be served.  All guests will receive a complimentary copy of Brain Child Magazine, the ‘magazine for thinking mothers’.
Details: General Admission: $10 online and $15 at the door (cash only at the door) at Brooklyn Creative League, 540 President St, 3rd Fl., Park Slope, Brooklyn, NY 11215

June 17- September 6: Ringling Brothers & Barnum & Bailey in Coney Island
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® Presents The Coney Island IlluscinationSM, a fantasy-filled world where thrills, wonderment and unbelievable magic intersect with the outlandish fun of the circus. Illuscinator, and host of this all-new Gold edition, David DaVinci, along with performers from all over the world invite Children of All Ages to join them on a mystifying adventure where they will witness eye-popping illusions and thrilling circus acts all at The Greatest Show On Earth® which runs June 17 – September 6 in an air-conditioned tent on Surf Avenue and West 21st Street, the same location where Ringling Bros. spent its successful 2009 inaugural season. Tickets, starting as low as $10.
Details: For more information on The Greatest Show on Earth visit Ringling.com/ConeyIsland. Tickets available via Ticketmaster.com, Ticketmaster retail locations or via phone at 1-800-745-3000.

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

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:

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

The Gazillion Bubble Show
The Gazillion Bubble Show is all about blowing bubble magic. Step into an interactive bubble world and be dazzled by spellbinding lasers, spectacular lighting effects, and jaw-dropping masterpieces of bubble artistry. A family affair, Gazillion Bubble Show features Fan, Ana, Jano, OR Deni Yang. “The Gazillion Bubble Show earns its claim on the word spectacular.” -NYTheatre.com. “Yang’s gorgeous and unique creations defy gravity and logic as we know it. Children and adults of all ages are sure to be amazed, mystified and enchanted!”
-NYC.com.
Details: http://www.gazillionbubbleshow.com/

April 16- May 23rd: TADA’s new production: Wide Awake Jake
The simple but sweet story of a little boy who simply can’t fall asleep, and the adventures he encounters on his quest for slumber. The performances are all done by children that are professionally trained by TADA’s teachers. The theater makes great use of its simple sets but manages to evoke a dream world, a backyard and a home. The babysitter has an amazing voice and a strong presence on stage. Your kid will love watching other kids perform in the costumes of some of his favorite characters: Curious George, the Cat in the Hat, a dragon, Alice in Wonderland and more.
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

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

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

Butterflies thru May 31st and thru 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:

Friday, May 7th:

Friday, May 7th: Bklyn Designs
This exhibition of designers of all cool things made and designed in Brooklyn, announced today that it will take place at St. Ann’s Warehouse in DUMBO, Brooklyn, May 7-9.  See www.bklyndesigns.com for a complete listing of exhibitors and events. The three-day show attracts everyone from interior designers, retailers, manufacturers, distributors, and design enthusiasts. On Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 9, they will have programming dedicated to families and a Kids Lounge to hang out in while Mum does some looking. The Annual Spring Fling will take place at the newly-opened Brooklyn Bridge Park with arts and crafts, and music and games for kids of all ages on the same day. A free shuttle bus sponsored by One Brooklyn Bridge will transport families from Blyn Designs to the Annual Spring Fling throughout the day. Specially-priced Bklyn Designs Mother’s Day brunch menus at restaurants in and around DUMBO.
Details: Tickets are available in advance online at www.bklyndesigns.com for $12, and at the door for $15 ($10 for students with valid student ID).

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.

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:

Saturday May 8th: 12 – 4 pm: Sheep Shearing at Prospect Park Zoo
The sheep and alpacas at the Wildlife Conservation Society’s Prospect Park Zoo are looking pretty fluffy – but not for long. To help these wonderfully wooly animals stay cool through the hot summer months, their thick wool coats will be sheared and groomed at the Prospect Park Zoo’s annual Fleece Festival, Saturday and Sunday, May 8 and 9.  The annual festival, a Brooklyn favorite, will make for a fun- and fleece-filled Mother’s Day weekend complete with sheep-themed crafts, live music, and lots of soon-to-be-shorn sheep and alpacas. As the animals receive their summer makeovers, professional shearers guide visitors through the process while local artists discuss and demonstrate the many uses of wool. Visitors enjoy live music courtesy of The Mary Lamont band.
Details: $7.00 for adults, $4 for seniors 65 and older, $3.00 for kids 3-12, free for children under 3. Zoo hours are 10am to 5pm weekdays; 10am to 5:30pm weekends. The Prospect Park Zoo is located at 450 Flatbush Avenue in Prospect Park, Brooklyn. For further information, call 718-399-7339 or visit www.prospectparkzoo.com.

Saturday May 8th: 1 – 4 pm: Greencycle Swap
You can reduce, reuse, and recycle gently used & working clothes, shoes, toys, books, & cell phones!   You can also recycle your computers (working and non-working), electronics (working only please), and now – with the help of Recycle-A-Bicycle, working bicycles too! Organized by Town Square.
Details: School Settlement (120 Jackson Street, near Skillman Avenue).

Saturday May 8th: 12 – 4 pm: BAM Block Party and Groundbreaking
Opening ceremony and drumline battle at 12:15pm.  Join BAM for an event-packed neighborhood block party filled with outdoor performances, food vendors, arts & crafts, plant giveaways, face painting, dance classes, youth poets, dj’s and more to celebrate the groundbreaking for BAM’s newest addition—the Richard B. Fisher Building.
Details: Located at the former site of the Salvation Army (321 Ashland Pl), the BAM Fisher Building will be dedicated to arts, education, and community programs.

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: 9 am:  Underhill “It’s My Park Day”
Rain or shine, come to Underhill Playground for a potluck breakfast. Activities include 10-10:45 am: Kid’s fitness class and 10:45-11 am: Hip 2 Hop by NYC Explorers. 11 am- 1 pm Sewing for Kids and 11:30-12:15 pm Music Together and 12:15-1:10 pm Strength Class by Nairobi’s Knapsack and all day gardening around the playground.
Details: To volunteer or for more info: [email protected]

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: Bklyn Designs
This exhibition of designers of all cool things made and designed in Brooklyn, announced today that it will take place at St. Ann’s Warehouse in DUMBO, Brooklyn, May 7-9.  See www.bklyndesigns.com for a complete listing of exhibitors and events. The three-day show attracts everyone from interior designers, retailers, manufacturers, distributors, and design enthusiasts. On Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 9, they will have programming dedicated to families and a Kids Lounge to hang out in while Mum does some looking. The Annual Spring Fling will take place at the newly-opened Brooklyn Bridge Park with arts and crafts, and music and games for kids of all ages on the same day. A free shuttle bus sponsored by One Brooklyn Bridge will transport families from Blyn Designs to the Annual Spring Fling throughout the day. Specially-priced Bklyn Designs Mother’s Day brunch menus at restaurants in and around DUMBO.
Details: Tickets are available in advance online at www.bklyndesigns.com for $12, and at the door for $15 ($10 for students with valid student ID).

Saturday, May 8th: 3:30 pm: Book Party
Please come celebrate the release of “The War on Moms: On Life in a Family-Unfriendly Nation,” a new book by Brooklyn writer Sharon Lerner. While the book can get pretty heavy (NPR just called it “a stinging account of how public policy and private businesses have failed to adapt to working mothers”), the party won’t be! Come dance – and crawl and hop and tip-toe – to the tunes of Rolie Polie Guacamole! Listen to Melanie Hope Greenberg read from “Mermaids on Parade” or one of her other fabulous kids’ books! Or just sit back and enjoy the cupcakes. I will read – though not long enough to bore the youth element.
Details: 3 Flatbush Avenue, 3rd Fl. That’s PowderKeg, Brooklyn’s new workspace for women writers. It’s between Fulton and Livingston.

Saturday, May 8th: 11 am- 2 pm: Learn to Ride at Owls Head Park, Bay Ridge
I bet that most of us can remember learning how to ride a bike- and all those tumbles that got us there. Even though we remember learning, it’s the teaching of it now that preoccupies most of us.  How do you teach your child to ride a bike and where can you do it safely? (without getting a sore back).  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: All cyclists must wear a helmet and have a bicycle that fits. The cyclist must be able to rest his or her feet flat on the ground while sitting on the bicycle seat. Parents should pump up tires until they are rock hard and are encouraged to remove training wheels prior to the class, if possible. The program works best for children ages 5 and up. (Sign up and map are  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 8th: 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 8th: 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! Stories and yoga for kids with Lauren Maples, director of Bija Kids Yoga.  Join Bija Kids Yoga director Lauren Maples for an interactive Story Time session featuring animal and nature poses, singing, and bubbles.
Kids will have a chance to explore the ways their bodies move while enjoying an excellent assortment of stories – a few favorites and some great new classics as well. This activity is open to kids of all ages with adults. No yoga experience required.
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 8th: 10 am- 3 pm: PS 39′s Spring Fair in Park Slope
This is PS 39′s first spring fair and they intend to make it a good one. They are selling Mother’s Day plants, a bouncy house, live bluegrass band, games, arts and crafts, raffles, pony rides and face painting.
Details: PS 39 is at 417 6th Avenue. Brooklyn, NY 718-330-9310

Saturday, May 8th: 1 pm: Dixie Rascals at the Library
Musicians perform in period costume on traditional Dixieland instruments: trumpet, banjo, tuba and clarinet.
Details: Central Library in Brooklyn,, Dweck Center at 10 Grand Army Plaza, Brooklyn, NY 11238  718-230-2100

Saturday, May 8th: 10 am- 6 pm: Artists and Fleas Market in McCarren
I do like this market a lot- it mainly consists of artists and handmake vendors. Think more Etsy than flea market. I found some great headbands, belts and toys here last year. The market is every Saturday beginning May 1st through July 31st (closed June 5th), from 11am-6pm and is located along the ballfields and tennis court fence that runs along Bedford Avenue north of N. 12th Street.
Details: http://artistsandfleas.com/market-in-mccarren

Saturday, May 8th: 12-3 pm: Bump sale and ice cream
Bump Brooklyn (www.bumpbrooklyn.com) will be celebrating Mothers Day by giving customers and their families scoops of Blue Marble Ice Cream (www.bluemarbleicecream) from 12-3pm (or until supplies run out).  While scoops of ice cream are free Bump will be accepting donations for Women In Need and matching all donations. Bump will also be having a store wide 15% sale May 8^th – 9^th.
Details: Bump Brooklyn 464 Bergen Street  (718-638-1960) is open Tuesday through Saturday from 11am to 7pm, and on Sunday from 12pm to 6pm.

Saturday, May 8th: 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.
11:30am, 2pm: John Farrell is an award-winning performing artist and writer who works with students, teachers, and families in schools and at community events throughout the United States and around the world.  He has performed in the United States, Canada, Ireland, and Japan.  John combines his skills as a singer, songwriter, storyteller, and author with his experience as a teacher to create educational and irresistibly entertaining programs for children. At New York Life’s Main Stage
11am, 1pm, 3pm:  Pouch!  Read by author David Ezra Stein (Penguin Group USA) – When you’re new to the world, every hop brings another surprise. Joey wants to go exploring, but everything he discovers is almost too exciting.  Bees, rabbits, birds, and other creatures can be scary, but Mama is never far away, and who knows—Joey might even make a friend. at Wild Asia Plaza – Author Appearance/Reading
12:15 to 2pm Danielle Monaro – meet radio personality from Elvis Duran and the Morning Zoo on Z-100
Danielle Morano can be heard weekdays on Z-100 as part of Elvis Duran and the Morning Zoo.  Born and raised in the Bronx, Morano got her start in radio while attending St. John’s University.  Aside from Z-100, Morano has appeared on several other media outlets including The Ricky Lake Show where she served on many panels.
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 8, 4-6 pm: Family Folk Dance
Margaret Bary, long-time Brooklyn Friends School dance teacher and dance caller, will teach fun, traditional American Folk dance to the live music of Paul Friedman, fiddle, and Cynthia Shaw, piano. No experience necessary — if you can count to four you can dance! Come swing your partner and tap your feet at this lively, joyous, family-friendly dance event. Wear soft soled shoes!
Details: $5 suggested donation. Old Stone House 336 Third Street bet. 4th and 5th Ave. Brooklyn, NY 11215 www.theoldstonehouse.org

Saturday, May 8th: 11 am: Deedle Deedle Dees and Fela!
The Deedle Deedle Dees Family Variety Show will feature the band and performers from the cast of the Broadway musical, Fela!, Jazz legend Roy Nathanson and his son, Gabe Nathanson, Brooklyn preschoolers performing an original Fela-style song they wrote with the Deedle Deedle Dees
Details: Tickets are $10-20. The Knitting Factory in Williamsburg.

Sunday, May 9th: HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!!

Sunday, May 9th: 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: John Farrell is an award-winning performing artist and writer who works with students, teachers, and families in schools and at community events throughout the United States and around the world.  He has performed in the United States, Canada, Ireland, and Japan.  John combines his skills as a singer, songwriter, storyteller, and author with his experience as a teacher to create educational and irresistibly entertaining programs for children. At New York Life’s Main Stage
11am, 1pm: Author appearance/reading- TBD
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 9th: 12- 6 pm: Mini Jake’s Deluxe Baby Registry Event
Experts on design, play, nutrition, and more, along with the knowledgeable Mini Jake staff, will be on hand to help select furniture and other necessities for your modern and “green” baby registry.  Bring the whole family, enter to win fabulous prizes and enjoy fun-filled activities including:
12pm – playdate for kids with Ofrit Shiran Peres and Natalie Cronin Reyes of Unplugged on a Rug
3pm – Michele Wong McSween reads from her popular Gordon and Li Li books
Details: Mini Jake  178 North 9^th Street  Brooklyn, NY  718-782-2005

Sunday, May 9th: 12 – 4 pm: Sheep Shearing at Prospect Park Zoo
The sheep and alpacas at the Wildlife Conservation Society’s Prospect Park Zoo are looking pretty fluffy – but not for long. To help these wonderfully wooly animals stay cool through the hot summer months, their thick wool coats will be sheared and groomed at the Prospect Park Zoo’s annual Fleece Festival, Saturday and Sunday, May 8 and 9.  The annual festival, a Brooklyn favorite, will make for a fun- and fleece-filled Mother’s Day weekend complete with sheep-themed crafts, live music, and lots of soon-to-be-shorn sheep and alpacas. As the animals receive their summer makeovers, professional shearers guide visitors through the process while local artists discuss and demonstrate the many uses of wool. Visitors enjoy live music courtesy of The Mary Lamont band.
Details: $7.00 for adults, $4 for seniors 65 and older, $3.00 for kids 3-12, free for children under 3. Zoo hours are 10am to 5pm weekdays; 10am to 5:30pm weekends. The Prospect Park Zoo is located at 450 Flatbush Avenue in Prospect Park, Brooklyn. For further information, call 718-399-7339 or visit www.prospectparkzoo.com.

Sunday, May 9th: 8 am: Mother’s Day 5K race
Join us on Mother’s Day for a memorable 5K race through the scenic paths and trails of Prospect Park at CityTri’s The Fugget About It 5K. Organized by CityTri in conjuction with the Mother’s Day Duathlon. Technical t-shirts , Special Mother’s Day goodie bag from Slope Sports , Awards for the Top 3 male and female finishers , Homemade food at the Finish Line
Details: Willink entrance of Prospect Park, near the Carousel.  To register or for more information, visit: www.citytri.com

Sunday, May 9th: Bklyn Designs
This exhibition of designers of all cool things made and designed in Brooklyn, announced today that it will take place at St. Ann’s Warehouse in DUMBO, Brooklyn, May 7-9.  See www.bklyndesigns.com for a complete listing of exhibitors and events. The three-day show attracts everyone from interior designers, retailers, manufacturers, distributors, and design enthusiasts. On Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 9, they will have programming dedicated to families and a Kids Lounge to hang out in while Mum does some looking. The Annual Spring Fling will take place at the newly-opened Brooklyn Bridge Park with arts and crafts, and music and games for kids of all ages on the same day. A free shuttle bus sponsored by One Brooklyn Bridge will transport families from Blyn Designs to the Annual Spring Fling throughout the day. Specially-priced Bklyn Designs Mother’s Day brunch menus at restaurants in and around DUMBO.
Details: Tickets are available in advance online at www.bklyndesigns.com for $12, and at the door for $15 ($10 for students with valid student ID).

Sunday, May 9th: 10:30 am- 1 pm: Brooklyn Bridge Park Spring Fling
The Annual Spring Fling will take place at the newly-opened Brooklyn Bridge Park with arts and crafts, and music and games for kids of all ages on the same day. A free shuttle bus sponsored by One Brooklyn Bridge will transport families from Blyn Designs (see event above) to the Annual Spring Fling throughout the day. Specially-priced Bklyn Designs Mother’s Day brunch menus at restaurants in and around DUMBO. This Mother’s Day event will feature musical guest AudraRox playing a rocking set for kids and adults. Children’s book author and illustrator Betsy Lewin, will read from “Click, Clack, Moo,” and offer a drawing demo. The Transit Museum will be on hand with arts and crafts and will offer discounted family memberships. The Brooklyn Children’s Museum will be hosting a special eco-friendly arts and crafts activity and the opportunity to get up close and personal with our friends from the Museum’s collection of living animals, and Karma Kids Yoga will lead parent-child yoga workshops. Children will make special Mother’s Day cards courtesy of The Moxie Spot. Don’t forget the new playground and park at Pier 1 (just stay away from the fiery hot metal domes on the playground!)
Details: http://brooklynbridgepark.org

Sunday, May 9th: 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 9th: 11 am: Book Court Reading
This is their first special Mothers’ Day event for the book Mama Says: A Book of Love for Mothers and Sons. Author Rob. D Walker and illustrators Leo and Diane Dillion (two-time Caldecott winners for Why Mosquitoes Buzz in People’s Ears and Ashanti to Zulu) will be there to read and sign books and celebrate the mothers of Cobble Hill (and anywhere else you come from). The event is free and no reservation is required, just bring your favorite local mom and family and join us!
Details: Bookcourt 163 Court Street  Brooklyn, NY 11201  (718) 875.3677  www.BookCourt.org

Sunday, May 9th: 9:30 am- 8 pm: Family Day at “Tutankhamun and the Golden Age of the Pharaohs”
Sun May 9 9:30am–8pm. Discovery Times Square, 226 W 44th St between Broadway and Eighth Ave (888-988-8692, discoverytsx.com). $27.50, children ages 4 to 12 $17.50, children under 4 free. This impressive selection of artifacts from the tomb of the young pharaoh hasn’t been seen in the Big Apple since the 1970s. Today, in addition to being dazzled by the trove of treasures, kids can get their faces painted, take special tours and do themed arts and crafts. Word to your mummy. Ages 8 and up.Read more: http://newyorkkids.timeout.com

Sunday, May 9th: 3 pm: Rolie Polie Guacamole Live
The Rolie Polie Guacamole quartet will be playing songs from their two LP’s Rolie Polie Guacamole and Time For Hummus.  Free açai juice courtesy of Sambazon will be available for all.  Purple açai berry balloons will rain down  in the heart Of Red Hook at the most hip speak-easy in town.
Details: $10, / kids over 1 $5  315 Columbia Street  Brooklyn, New York 11231

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