Could you say overreacting on my part?! Here we are at Ft. Greene Park

Snow! The forecast from weather.com is: “Through 3pm: Intermittent snow, sleet and/or freezing rain will change to a few snow showers around noon.  About one inch of additional snow through 2:30pm.” All to say, that means we may have great snow for sledding!

Our sleds are perched at our front door, snowpants washed and laid out…. all in hopes of a fabulous day of sledding! See you out there!

Here are some of the best sledding hills:

NYC:

• Pilgrim Hill in Central Park (5th Ave and 72nd Street)
• Riverside Park on the Upper West Side (beware of “Suicide Park” at Riverside Dive and 91st Street- it’s meant for adults and older kids). Instead head to Riverside Drive and 103rd Street.

Brooklyn:

Fort Greene/Clinton Hill:

1. Fort Greene Park
   There are about 4 sides to the hill so it never gets too crowded.
   1. The small hill nearest to the Willoughby entrance off Myrtle is small and best for the littlest in your family. The slope ends in a nice snow field where others are building snowmen and trekking to and from the playground. However, there is a lampost to watch out for but it is often surrounded by hay bales to protect sledders.
   2. The steepest area is at the top of the hill by the monument- on the stairs- yes, on the stairs. If there is enough snow, the 3 sets of stairs leading up to the monument from Myrtle Ave are covered. The “run” is to down all 3 sets of stairs. There is a plateau at the end of each one so that if you are able, you can stop yourself from going all the way down to the bottom. Otherwise, be prepared for a hair-raising ride.  This is not a hill for the faint of heart- many adults won’t go down it, but kids ages 4 years and up do go down with their parents nonetheless (including ours). I went down the first slope with my 2 year old and stopped at the bottom there so that we didn’t go all the way down. You may snowboarders here too!
   3. There is a hill on the backside of the park that leads to Myrtle Ave which is a nice hill- not as steep and yet still a good one.
   4. The most popular hill is by the tennis courts.  It’s a nice wide slope and so multiple sleds can go down at the same time. There are some obstacles to avoid: lampost, tree and recycling area. The park usually covers these with hay bales to prevent injuries.
      By Public Transportation:  Subways: C to Lafayette, G to Fulton, R,Q, B to DeKalb Avenue,  2, 3,4, 5, D, N to Atlantic Avenue. Buses: B38, B52, B25, B26. Sleds are usually available at the dollar store on Myrtle Ave.

Park Slope:

1. The Nethermead- Picnic House area
   This favored location in Prospect Park has great sledding hills and can get crowded. The best hills are next to the picnic house. For the hills by the picnic house, enter at Prospect Park West and 3rd Streets and head southwest along West Drive. 
   By Public Transportation: (MTA map) • F Train to 15th St./Prospect Park station • 2 or 3 Train to Grand Army Plaza station • B-68, B-69 or B-75 Buses to Prospect Park West and 9th St.
2. The Long Meadow Slope- Tennis House Area
   This nice hill, next to the tennis house is a popular spot. Head to 9th Street, off of Prospect Park West, then walk towards the interior of the park and cross West Drive to the Long Meadow.
   By Public Transportation : (MTA map) • F Train to 7th Ave station or 15th St./Prospect Park station • 2 or 3 Train to Grand Army Plaza station • B-68, B-69 or B-75 Buses to Prospect Park West and 9th St.
3. Vanderbilt Playground
   The sledding hill is across from the playground and right above the lake. It isn’t too steep or crowded. Head to Prospect Park Southwest and Vanderbilt, and head towards Prospect Park Lake. This location is right off of Prospect Park Southwest, so it’s good for little ones as it’s not too far of a hike into the park.
   By Public Transportation : F Train to 7th Ave. Station or the 2 or 3 to Grand Army Plaza Station.
4. Maryland Monument
   Enter at Prospect Park Southwest and 16th Street and proceed across to Wellhouse Drive. The slope is by the bridge and is pretty steep. It’s better for school aged kids. There are stairs there to aid in climbing the slope.
5. Breeze Hill
   Plog NYC alerted us to their fabulous steep sledding spot and their sledcam proves it! They say, “for parents on the east side of Prospect Park, there’s a nice steep sledding spot called Breeze Hill. It’s north of the Concert Grove past the Oriental Pavilion. Walk up the hill and point your sleds south towards the Wollman Rink. It’s lightly trafficked and short but fairly steep. Best for kids eight and above.”
   By Public transportation: Q or B train to Prospect Park station. Walk down Lincoln Road towards the park. Keep walking in the same direction and you can’t miss it.

Sunset Park:

1. Sunset Park
   This hill is not long, but relatively steep. It’s not overcrowded and if you need a sled, you can buy one at the hardware store across the street.  The hill is easily climbable for a 4 year old. You might find some kids snowboarding down the hill even.
   Enter at 41st/44th Street and 5th Ave.
   By Public Transportation : R to 45th, N/D to 36th, B63 to 42nd.

Bay Ridge:

1. Owl’s Head Park in Bay Ridge.
   Head to Shore Parkway, Shore Road, Colonial Road and 68 Street.  MAP
2. There is a hill at Shore Rd and 97th.
   Enter from 97th and go right down the ramp and you will see a big hill. It may be somewhat steep for young kids.

Brooklyn Heights:

1. The dog park by Harry Chapin Playground is a great spot with a nice slope.
   Head to Columbia Heights between Cranberry and Middagh Streets. You can buy a sled at the hardware store on Court/Livingston. MAP

Dumbo:

1. Clumber Corner is a nice sloping corner as its name suggests. From the photos I have seen of it, this is on my MUST SLED list this winter!
   It’s located near the Brooklyn-Queens Expressway (BQE) and at the corner of Washington Street and Prospect St. Dumbonyc.com has a great photo of it. The slope is steep enough that makes it fun and slopes toward Washington Street which has parked cars, so it’s not dangerous. MAP
   By Public Transportation : F to York Street, 3 blocks down York, left on Washington St 1 block
   A or C to High Street, Cadman Plaza East, go under the Brooklyn Bridge
   which is the corner of Washington and Prospect.

Don’t have a sled?

Try these quickie makeshift sleds to make your kids scream with delight:

• A metal garbage can lid turned over (the best really)
• Find an old tire (you can buy them from tire shops- and there’s one by the G stop at Fulton St. in Fort Greene near the park)
• A cookie sheet
• Cardboard box (the more creases it has, the more you will slow down, to make it faster, wrap it in a garbage bag)
• I saw some kids using recycling bags for great effect!

A Child Grows, 2012. | Permalink | 6 comments | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: bay ridge, best places to sled, best sledding hills in brooklyn, brooklyn, brooklyn heights, clinton hill, dumbo, fort greene park, hill for kids, kid sledding, locations for sledding in brooklyn, manhattan, nethermeads, nyc, owls head park, park slope, park slope sledding, pilgrim hill, places to sled, riverside park, shore road, shore road sledding, sledding, sledding hill, sledding hill for kids, sledding hills in nyc, south slope, vanderbilt playground, where to sled, where to sled in bay ridge, where to sled in brooklyn, where to sled in brooklyn heights, where to sled in clinton hill, where to sled in dumbo, where to sled in fort greene park, where to sled in nethermeads, where to sled in nyc, where to sled in owls head park, where to sled in pilgrim hill, where to sled in prospect park, where to sled in riverside park, where to sled in sunset park, where to sled on pilgrim hill, where to sled with kids in nyc

Martin Luther King events at The Brooklyn Children's Museum

Though there are events all weekend to celebrate Martin Luther King Jr’s legacy, (check our weekend events here), there are some special ones on the actual day it’s celebrated- Monday, January 16th. MLK Day is also about giving service to others and we have our list of where to volunteer as a family here. You can also look at NYC’s database for volunteer opportunities which have opportunities from helping shovel snow to instructing fitness classes.

Monday, January 16th: 10:30 am:
24th Annual Brooklyn Tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
BAM, Brooklyn Borough President Marty Markowitz, and Medgar Evers College of The City University of New York present New York City’s largest public celebration honoring Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.This year, BAM welcomes keynote speaker Dennis M. Walcott, chancellor of the New York City Department of Education. A lifelong resident of Queens and a graduate of New York City public schools, Walcott has spent his life committed to Dr. King’s vision of social justice through advocacy of improved educational policy and social services for both children and adults. Walcott pays tribute to Dr. King’s enduring legacy in this uplifting, music-filled tribute to one of the great humanitarians of our time. Musical performances by Toshi Reagon and BIGLovely and The Institutional Radio Choir C.O.G.I.C. of Brooklyn round out the program.  Following the event in the Opera House, BAM Rose Cinemas presents a free screening of the film The Black Power Mixtape 1967—1975. Featuring never-before-seen interviews with many leaders of the Black Power Movement this moving documentary features a treasure trove of footage shot by Swedish journalists who came to the US drawn by stories of urban unrest and revolution.
Details: BAM Howard Gilman Opera House. First come, first seated. BAM.org is located in Fort Greene.

Monday, January 16th: 9:30 AM -12:00 PM:
MLK Day Mini Camps
Soccer mini-camps for ages 2.5-3 & Ages 4-5 all morning in Park Slope.
Details: visit supersoccerstars.com or call us at 212-877-7171 to secure a spot today.

Monday, January 16th
Children’s Museum of Manhattan Celebration
This child-centered museum is open on MLK day which means you not only get to play but children ages 5 years and older can take a “Make a difference pledge” and all ages can watch the 3 pm performance by the Harlem Gospel Choir. Heavenly.
Details: Childrens Museum of Manhattan 212 West 83rd Street. New York, NY 10024.

Monday, January 16th: 10 am – 12 pm
Day of Service at Crow Hill
Come to the Crow Hill Community Garden for a day of service! Bring gloves, outdoor brooms/dustpans, garbage bags, etc. Bring your family, friends & neighbors.
Details: 730 Franklin Ave btw. Park and Sterling.

Monday, January 16th: various times
Events at Brooklyn Children’s Museum

Let’s Join Hands
11:30am-12:30pm
Explore the differences and similarities of various cultures and we learn about tolerance and peace.  Learn Martin Luther King’s message of friendship and love as he joined hands with people of all colors on his march to freedom. Create a hand wreath to take home.
Ages 5 & under
Cake of Dreams
12:00-3:00pm
Let your dreams be showcased during Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. weekend!  Come write or draw pictures of your dreams on clouds, then add your dream to Dr. King’s birthday cake.  Come back later in the afternoon to see it overflowing with clouds of the dreams of children just like you!
All Ages

Historical Snapshot: A Day in the Life of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.
1:30 – 2:30pm
Join us for a historical journey as we hear about the day (Wednesday, August 28, 1963) that Civil Rights activist, Ms. Yolanda Clarke, attended the “March on Washington (D.C.) for Jobs and Freedom”. Listen as she describes the moments leading up to and including Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.s’ I Have a Dream speech advocating for racial harmony on the steps at the Lincoln Memorial.  Afterwards, participate in a discussion with Ms. Clarke about her place in history, listen to renowned opera singer, Lawrence Craig, Jr., as he pays tribute in song to our beloved Dr. King and view a recording of one of the most noted events in history.
All Ages

National Grid Earthworks: Best Nest Contest
1:30 – 2:30pm
From twigs and mud to bubbles and spit, nests can be made out of just about anything. Check out nests from our collection and see who can build the best nest for their little guests.
Ages 4 and up

Celebrate Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
2:30 – 3:30pm
Explore the big ideas and images that surround the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.  Investigate the symbols and slogans of the US Civil Rights Movement and take part in our National Day of Service: a “day on, not a day off.”  Inspire generations to come with your own living legacy collage.
Ages 6+

Let’s Join Hands
2:30-3:30pm
Explore the differences and similarities of various cultures and we learn about tolerance and peace.  Learn Martin Luther King’s message of friendship and love as he joined hands with people of all colors on his march to freedom. Create a hand wreath to take home.
Ages 5 & under

Details: Brooklyn Children’s Museum   45 Brooklyn Avenue  Brooklyn, NY 11213  718-735-4400 www.brooklynkids.org

A Child Grows, 2012. | Permalink | No comment | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: bam brooklyn, brooklyn, brooklyn childrens museum events for martin luther king jr day, events on martin luther king day, martin luther king day events, martin luther king service opportunities, mlk day celebrations, mlk tributes, museums that are open on martin luther king day, super soccer stars on mlk day, tribute to martin luther king, what to do on martin luther king day, what to do with kids on martin luther king day in nyc, where to volunteer on martin luther king day in nyc

Whether you celebrate Hanukkah, Christmas or Kwanzaa, we have pulled together some fun events for you to do this weekend. For additional events, please see our post on Hanukkah Events, and on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day Family Services. Kwanzaa starts on Monday, December 26th. The Brooklyn Children’s Museum has a great week of programmed events to celebrate it. See their calendar for specifics. This weekend is also the perfect time to see the fantastic holiday lights around Brooklyn. On where to find them and our tips on seeing them, go here.

GOING ON THROUGH SATURDAY, DECMEMBER 24th
OR SUNDAY, DECEMBER 25th

Christmas Lights in Brooklyn (most continue through Jan. 1st)
This weekend is the perfect time to see the fantastic holiday lights around Brooklyn. On where to find them and our tips on seeing them, go here.

Through Saturday, December 24^th 2011
Santa at Kings Plaza
Santa will arrive at Kings Plaza where you can say “hello” and share your Holiday “wish list”. Santa will be available for Photos Monday-Saturday 11am to 9:00pm and Sunday 11am to 7pm. Tips: Easy parking and the Santa and photos are reportedly good.  Reports have come back that the wait has been nothing to 20 minutes.  You can get some of your holiday shopping done too while you are here. Details: Kings Plaza Shopping Center is at the intersection of Flatbush Avenue and Avenue U; just one mile from Exit 11N off the Belt Parkway. Parking at Kings Plaza is easily accessible from Flatbush Avenue, Avenue U or East 55th Street. There is a flat rate of $3.00 to park.

Through Saturday December 24th from 11 am – 5 pm
On weekends the 11:00am – 4:00 pm
Sant-A-Box at the DeKalb Market
Santa will be holding court in a specially decorated shipping container at the DeKalb Market where he will be wearing a suit designed by Sylvia Heisel and Scott Taylor of Post Modern Production Kids can take their picture with him on the weekends and during the week, you can take your own photos at the SANT-A-BOX photo booth, complete with costumes. The market recommends to use hashtag #SANTABOX on Twitter and Instagram when posting pictures. Details: Market is located on the corner of Willoughby and Flatbush, next to Juniors).

Through Sunday, December 25^th
South Street Seaport Santa
This beautiful tree adorned with bows and thousands of tiny lights feels quaint on the cobblestoned Water Street.  Santa is at the Seaport to hear kids’ wish lists, take photos and be jolly. He makes appearances in the holiday seating area located on the 3rd floor of Pier 17 from 12 pm to 2 pm every Saturday and Sunday with a kick-off at the Tree Lighting Spectacular on Friday, November 25^th. Tips: All visits with Santa are free, but bring your own camera. 4 choruses perform classic holiday songs, including their jovial rendition of The 12 Days of Christmas, every Friday, Saturday and Sunday through December 19th. If you go on a Saturday or Sunday to see Santa, stick around for the choruses performing beneath the large tree at 3 pm and 4 pm.  Please click here to view the performance schedules. There are some big box shops down at the Seaport too- so you can get your shopping in too. The public restrooms are plentiful and nice and the whole area has a nice holiday feel. Details: For additional information, please visit: South Street Seaport.com. By Subway: 2, 3, 4, 5, J, Z, or M to Fulton Street A or C trains to Broadway-Nassau; or E train towards Fulton Street. Walk East on Fulton Street to Water Street.

Through December 24 from 9:00am -5:30pm
Santa and Puppet Show at Macy’s
This is the most famous Santa in New York complete with gorgeous train displays, lights, trees, bags of toys and of course Jolly Old Saint Nick. Funny enough, Karen (founder of A Child Grows in Brooklyn) meet him one year on the subway. He told her that one weekend over 3,000 visitors came to visit and take pictures. Tips: Though this is a beautiful winter wonderland, the wait can be unpleasant. Those willing to brave the lines will have a festive backdrop and a beautiful photo with Santa but we suggest that you go early and try to visit Santa on a weekday so that you will be in and out in an hour. Make sure to bring your own camera as the photo options that Macy’s offers aren’t cheap with prices starting at $18.99 for a 6×8 picture. Details: Visit Santa at Macy’s Santaland on the 8th floor of Macy’s Herald Square. Santaland is open daily from 9:00am-9:00pm from November 27th through Saturday, December 24th, 2011. Macy’s notes: Santa will return to the North Pole promptly at 5:30 P.M. on December 24th so he can load up his sleigh. Admission is free and digital photographs of your child with Santa will be available for purchase. For additional information, please call (212) 494-4495 or visit: Macy’s.com.

Through January 16, 2012 (Open on Dec. 24th, closed on Dec. 25th)
The New York Botanical Gardens Holiday Train Show
The beloved Holiday Train Show at The New York Botanical Garden is back for it’s 20^th season and we are so excited to check out this year’s display of replicas of model trains featuring New York landmarks from the Garden’s collection of more than 140 New York landmarks such as Penn Station, Yankee Stadium, the Brooklyn Bridge, Rockefeller Center, and Radio City Music Hall – all of which are created from leaves, twigs, bark, berries, seeds, pine cones, nuts, and pods. For the full post with info on tips and review go here. Details: The New York Botanical Garden

Through January 2^nd 2012 (shows on Dec. 24th and 25th)
Radio City Christmas Spectacular
This show is quite simply dazzling complete with gorgeous trees, ornamental chandeliers and the friendliest staff you have ever met. The Rockettes are incredible to watch as they dance and move their magical gams. The costumes are also amazing as well as the festive music. This show also features an amazing digital backdrop where they switch from grand manor to the streets of New York City. Karen’s son, Birch, (who saw the show last year) hasn’t stopped talking about the bus moving through the (digital) streets of New York. He thought we were traveling too. And we were in a way: we were totally entertained. Yes, the show is somewhat nostalgic and sentimental, and a bit kitschy at times, but it is rich in entertainment, excellent choreography (I always love that Tin Solider piece) and thrill. Details: Show times are at 11am, 2pm, 5:00pm, 7:30pm and 8:00pm (depending on the day). Tickets range from $45 (non-peak – third mezz) to $110 (peak – orchestra). For additional information or to purchase tickets, call (888) 858- 0007 or visit: http://www.radiocitychristmas.com/

Through December 24^th 2011 (performances at 12 and 2 pm and Little Rascals showing at 4 pm)
A Christmas Carol,” as told by Charles Dickens (himself)
Based on the Dickens’ own material from his historic reading tours throughout the US, this classic tale is given new life with physical comedy, festive magic through Ebenezer Scrooge’s journey. Presented at the Canal Park Playhouse, this play is designed for kids 7 and up. Details: The regular ticket price is $18. A Pre Fixe brunch is available for an additional $6.95 in advance or $8.95 at the door.  Shows are held at 12:00pm, 2:00pm and 7:00pm. Canal Park Playhouse, 508 Canal Street, New York, United States For tickets or more information, call OvationTix on 1-866-811-4111 or visit www.canalparkplayhouse.com.

Through December 24^th, 2011 (performances at 12 and 2 pm)
Manhattan Children’s Theatre presents A Christmas Carol
Based on the classic holiday tale, this version of A Christmas Carol features traditional and original music as audience members see as Scrooge through his past, present and future. Details: Shows are on Saturdays and Sundays at 12:00 & 2:00pm. There is also a special performance on Dec 23, 2011 at 12:00 & 2:00pm. Tickets are $18 for adults, $16 for kids; $20 at the door. Manhattan Children’s Theatre, 380 Broadway, fourth floor, Broadway and White, NYC. For reservations please call (212) 352-3101 or visit www.mctny.org

Through December 31^st, 2011
George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker
A child receives a nutcracker as a Christmas gift—which turns out to be magical—in this iconic ballet performed by the New York City Ballet. The nutcracker leads Clara into adventures that include a mouse king, toy soldiers, a land of sweets and waltzing snowflakes. Set to a classic score by Tchaikovsky, the ballet debuted in 1954 and has been a holiday tradition ever since. Details: Show times for The Nutcracker are at 1pm, 2pm, 5pm or 8pm – depending on the day. Tickets range from $55-$135. The Nutcracker is playing at Lincoln Center Plaza, David H. Koch Theater (63rd Street and Columbus Avenue), New York, NY 10023. For additional information, please call (212) 870-5570 or click here.

Through Sunday, January 8th: various times (shows on Dec. 24th and 25th)
The Big Apple Circus: Dream Big
The Big Apple Circus at Lincoln Center is back again and we loved it! Grandma Clown (the emcee) is hilarious as she guides you through the Big Apple’s acts and set changes. The thread of the show’s theme, “Dream Big,” begins with a little girl who appears to have been plucked from the audience. She proclaims her desires to be a trapeze performer, which by the end of the show, she does become. Apparently, dreaming big does work! Fabulous international circus artists perform under an intimate tent with varying acts from acrobats to clowns. People seemed to especially respond to the animals, which include horses, dogs, and a porcupine. The acrobats were particularly enthralling to watch as they were jumping around as a human pyramid. The kids were doing acrobatics in their seats during the intermission. This is probably because they could totally relate it to their own experiences on the monkeybars. The show is perfect for ages 2.5 years and up. Both our children were totally engaged by it, and honestly, we were too. Runs Oct 20 – Jan 8.
Details: Tickets start at $15, children under 3 years are free on the lap of a paid adult.

All weekend
Prospect Park Zoo
See animal feedings all weekend from 11 am to 4 pm. Yes, they are open on Christmas Day! The Aquarium is also open.

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 24th

Saturday, December 24th: 1:30 pm (the museum closes early at 3 pm today)
Brooklyn Children’s Museum hosts Light of Our Lives
Join a class that explores how the theme of light, especially when provided by candle, figures into the stories and traditions of Kwanzaa, Christmas, Hanukkah, and Diwali. Children will hear stories about religious holidays and create a light-inspired craft. Details: $7.50  Brooklyn Children’s Museum, 145 Brooklyn Avenue, Crown Heights. 718-735-4400. www.brooklynkids.org.

Saturday, Dec. 24, 10:30 – 11:15 a.m.
Jingle Bell Jam with Bonga
This special yearly event is for the whole family. Bring your jingle bells!!! Bonga comes to Gumbo with his bag of percussion toys for children, from infants on up, to make their own music.   Using percussion instruments such as handmade drums; tcha-tchas, and wooden blocks, Bonga leads a rhythm workshop for all to tune into and enjoy their own rhythm and voice. Appropriate for children (and adults!) of all ages.
Details: $10, siblings and adults $5.00. For all events see: http://www.gumbobrooklyn.blogspot.com Gumbo, 493 Atlantic Ave., (bet. Nevins & Third) 718-855-7808.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 25th

Sunday, December 25th, 1pm
Klez for Kids Family Concert at the Museum at Eldridge Street
If you’re Jewish and wondering what to do with your kids on Christmas Day, head to the beautiful Eldridge Street Synagogue where you can all sing and dance to Yiddish music at the Museum’s annual family concert.  Clarinetist Greg Wall and his band Klezmerfest will lead the audience on a musical tour of Eastern European Jewish culture ending with a festive audience-enacted shtetl wedding. Details: 12 Eldridge Street, New York, NY 10022 (212) 219-0888 $12 adults; $8 students and seniors; $6 children under 12

Sunday, December 25 at 11:30 am, 1:00 pm, 3:00 pm
Family Concert: The Macaroons
Enjoy the big harmonies, irresistible melodies and a guitar-based sound that recalls everything from the Kinks, to Queens, to the Shins. Tickets required. Details: The Jewish Museum. Full details here including ticket prices.

Sunday, December 25 from 2-5 pm
Chanukah Celebration at West End Synagogue
When I lived on the UWS, this synagogue was steps away and I was always amazed at how many people came to their services. When I finally got around to looking at their programming, I realized why. Their Chanukah celebration is a big hit live music with Michelle Citrin, crafts and candle lighting. Details: The suggested donation is $5. $18 max per family. For more info, go to their site. 190 Amsterdam at 69th Street. NY, NY 10023.

A Child Grows, 2011. | Permalink | No comment | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: 2011, a christmas carol on christmas day, a christmas carol on christmas eve, broadway shows open on christmas day, christmas lights in brooklyn, christmas lights in dyker heights, christmas weekend events in brooklyn, december 25, events on christmas day, events on sunday, in brooklyn, macys santa, santa at macys, shows open on christmas day, south street seaport santa, the big apple circus, theater that is open on christmas day in nyc, train show at botanical gardens, what to do on christmas eve brooklyn, what to do on christmas weekend in nyc, where to see santa on christmas, where to see santa on christmas eve in nyc, zoos open on christmas day

It’s painful getting your kids to stay up for that late night Christmas Eve service- and even more tortuous to have sleepy, cranky kids on Christmas morning. A  lot of churches have accommodated families by creating earlier Christmas Eve Family Services or special Christmas Day services. I emailed quite a few churches to ask about their services and didn’t hear back from any of those- so, those weren’t included in my final list below.  I wish they had responded so that it could have rounded out my list better. So…the list doesn’t represent a wide spectrum of religious diversity, it just is what I could find and have heard about! Merry Christmas!

The Church of St. Luke and St. Matthew (Clinton Hill)
Christmas Eve: 5 pm: 15 minute craft project and 30 minute service. This “Christmas For Kids” service is fantastic. I went last year and my whole family was totally impressed with how much thought and preparation they put into the childrens’ crafts, and then  how meaningful the service was for the children and parents. My favorite Christmas Eve service ever, actually. My husband and his mother went back for the midnight service to hear the fantastic and dedicated choir at the church. This will be the second year they are doing the “Christmas for Kids.”
Details: 520 Clinton Ave, Brooklyn NY 11238   718.638.0686

Grace Church (Brooklyn Heights)
Christmas Eve: 4:00 pm Family Eucharist with the Christmas Story and 10:00 pm Festival Eucharist with the Grace Church Choir and sermon by the Rector.
Christmas Day: 10:30 am Eucharist with Carols
Details: 254 Hicks Street, Brooklyn, NY 11201 (718) 624-185

First Presbyterian church of Brooklyn (Brooklyn Heights)
Thursday, December 22: Christmas Caroling: Do you love to sing Christmas Carols?  Do you love to spend the holiday season with friends and neighbors?  If so, please consider joining the choir for a night of caroling in Brooklyn Heights!  They will meet in the sanctuary at 7:00 p.m. on Thursday, December 22. After caroling they will have some food and drink by the fire. All are invited.
Christmas Eve: 7:00 p.m. in the Sanctuary.
Christmas Day: 11:00 a.m. in the Sanctuary.
Details: . 124 Henry St. • Brooklyn, NY 11201 718 624-3770

First Unitarian Congregational Church
Christmas Eve: Family Service from 5-6 pm.
Details: 48 Monroe Place, Brooklyn, NY 11201  718 624 5466

St Philips Episcopal church Brooklyn (Bed-Stuy)
Christmas Eve: 4 pm Family Service
Details: 334 MacDonough Street Brooklyn, NY 11233  718-778-8700

Fourth Avenue Presbyterian Church of Brooklyn (btw. Bay Ridge and Sunset Park)
Christmas Eve: service will begin at 6pm.  This beloved service will include the age-old hymns, candlelit singing, and, or course, a nativity.
If you or your (grand)children are interested in participating in the nativity play, please arrive at the church by 4:45pm for costumes and for a walk-through.
Details: 6753 4th Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11220 718-836-0681

Plymouth Church Christmas Eve Candelight Service (Brooklyn Heights)
Christmas Eve: candlelight services is from 6-7 pm. A family service of lessons and carols with a meditation by Rev. David Fisher. Traditional carols will be sung by the Plymouth Choir, under the direction of Bruce Oelschlager. Harp prelude begins at 5:30.
Details: 75 Hicks  Street Brooklyn, NY 11201  718-624-4743 info@plymouthchurch.org

Park Slope United Methodist Church
Christmas Eve: 4pm.  It is an abbreviated service suitable for young children, followed by caroling at the piano.Candlelight service at 8pm.
Details: 410 Sixth Avenue (Corner of 6th Ave. and 8th St) Brooklyn, NY 11215  2 blocks from the 7th Avenue stop on the F subway line, or 3 blocks from the 9th Street stop on the M and R lines. (718) 768-3093

St. Charles Borromeo Church (Brooklyn Heights)
Christmas Eve: 5 PM Children’s Mass and Nativity Pageant, 11:30 PM Christmas Eve Concert
Christmas Day: Mass at Midnight, 9 AM and 10:30 AM; No 7 PM Mass on Christmas Day

A Child Grows, 2011. | Permalink | One comment | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: 2011, brooklyn, brooklyn heights, christmas eve church service, christmas eve service, christmas eve service in brooklyn, christmas eve worship in brooklyn, church in bay ridge, church in bed-stuy, church in brooklyn for families, church in brooklyn heights, church in clinton hill, church in sunset park, church of st luke and st matthew, early christmas eve church service, family friendly church, first presbyterian church of brooklyn, first unitarian congregational church, fourth avenue presbyterian church of brooklyn, grace church, plymouth church, progressive church, st charles borromeo church, st philips episcopal church Brooklyn, what to do on christmas eve

Grand Army Plaza Giant Menorah Lighting. Photo courtesy of "Who Will Kiss the Pig".

Um..so I’m a day late and about 10 posts behind (including this Hanukkah post). I left for vacation on Sunday and am feeling very happy to have a break from the blog, facebook, twitter and well- everything.  I have found time to eat a bag of pretzels, drink a pot of tea and rip through 3 magazines in 1 day: sheer happiness! So, it’s a day late- but the Happiest Hanukkah to everyone. I hope you have a  joyful and memorable Hanukkah!

Grand Army Plaza Menorah Lighting- Brooklyn
Tuesday, December 20th -Wednesday, December 28th
Christmas trees don’t get to have all the fun. After all, Hanukkah is the festival of lights. This massive 32-foot tall, two-ton menorah will be lit every night of the holiday. Details: Intersection of Vanderbilt and Flatbush Avenues. Free

World’s Largest Hanukkah Menorah Lighting- Manhattan
Tuesday, December 20th – Wednesday, December 28th Friday at 3:30pm, Saturday at 8:30pm and 5:30pm on all other days
The miracle of Hanukkah takes on even greater significance for kids as they look upon the 32-foot, 4,000-pound, golden candelabra that grandly takes the spotlight near Central Park on the corner of 5th Avenue and 59th Street.  At the beginning of the holiday, a celebration will include live music, singing and folk dancing, “Chanukah Gelt” for the children and hot latkes for everyone. FREE Details: Grand Army Plaza, Fifth Avenue at 59th Street

92^nd Street Y Hannukah Fun
Tuesday-Tuesday, Dec 20th-27th, 4:30 pm (There will be no lighting for the Hanukkah Menorah on Dec 24th and Dec 25th)
Bring your dancing shoes and singing voices and end the celebration with Hanukkah chocolate gelt candies.
Details: Lexington Avenue and 92^nd Street 1395 Lexington Avenue  (212) 415-5500

The Fifth Night Brooklyn – A Hanukkah Party and Charitable Gift Giving Celebration
Wednesday, December 21st, 6:30-7:30pm
The Fifth Night is a fun, simple, age-appropriate way for young children to participate in Tzedakah, the Jewish tradition of charity, by giving one night of their Hanukkah gifts away to another child in need. This year we’re thrilled to be partnering with Little Essentials, a community based non-profit (started by a local, Fort Greene-area mom!) that provides free baby and toddler (to age 4) clothing, furniture and other essential items to Brooklyn, NY families living in poverty. After gift collecting, a communal candle lighting, some songs and a shared treat (dinner will not be served), a representative from Little Essentials will speak briefly to the children, thank them for their gifts, and describe how their donations will impact the recipients and their families. With the little ones in mind, we will be sure to keep the presentations short, and easy to understand. Details: Bija Kids Clinton Hill, 900 Fulton Street. Space is limited, so reserve your spot now: http://fifthnightbrooklyn.eventbrite.com/

Klez for Kids Family Concert at the Museum at Eldridge Street
Sunday, December 25th, 1pm
If you’re Jewish and wondering what to do with your kids on Christmas Day, head to the beautiful Eldridge Street Synagogue where you can all sing and dance to Yiddish music at the Museum’s annual family concert.  Clarinetist Greg Wall and his band Klezmerfest will lead the audience on a musical tour of Eastern European Jewish culture ending with a festive audience-enacted shtetl wedding. Details: 12 Eldridge Street, New York, NY 10022 (212) 219-0888 $12 adults; $8 students and seniors; $6 children under 12

Family Concert: The Macaroons
Sunday, December 25 at 11:30 am, 1:00 pm, 3:00 pm
Enjoy the big harmonies, irresistible melodies and a guitar-based sound that recalls everything from the Kinks, to Queens, to the Shins. Tickets required. Details: The Jewish Museum. Full details here including ticket prices.

Chanukah Celebration at West End Synagogue
Sunday, December 25 from 2-5 pm
When I lived on the UWS, this synagogue was steps away and I was always amazed at how many people came to their services. When I finally got around to looking at their programming, I realized why. Their Chanukah celebration is a big hit live music with Michelle Citrin, crafts and candle lighting. Details: The suggested donation is $5. $18 max per family. For more info, go to their site. 190 Amsterdam at 69th Street. NY, NY 10023.

A Child Grows, 2011. | Permalink | One comment | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: 92nd Street Y Hannukah, brooklyn, chanukah, Eldridge Street Synagogue, Events, family hanukkah, Fifth Night Brooklyn, grand army plaza lighting, Grand Army Plaza Menorah Lighting, hannukah, hanukkah, Hanukkah Party, manhattan, menorah lightings in nyc, nyc, the macaroons, what do on christmas day, what to do on christmas day in brooklyn, World’s Largest Hanukkah Menorah Lighting

“Small hands can bring big changes.” It’s the perfect time of year for your kids to see how true that statement is.  From making cards to holding someone’s hand, there is great potential to make a difference.  We found some wonderful opportunities for your family to help out this holiday season.

Stockings with Care
Stockings with Care works with coalitions that assist families either living in homeless shelters or who are in jeopardy of becoming homeless and can not afford to celebrate their holiday. Social workers at each of these coalitions work with the parents to make their wish lists. These lists are passed on to Stockings with Care. Through the generosity of our individual Santas, private and corporate donors and a small army of volunteers, we make sure that every child gets at least two things on their list and that each child has at least three gifts to open on Christmas morning. Thousands of gifts are wrapped and delivered to the parents, empowering them to create magic for their kids.is an organization in Manhattan that gives presents to children living in homeless shelters.  You and your children can help wrap presents for the children. For more information go here.

Park Slope Presbyterian Church Meals
The PSPresbyterian is providing meals to residents at Bishop Boardman Apartments on Christmas Eve. Contact Shay Roedemeier to sign up for what dish you will bring. They will bring their contributions to Bishop Boardman (8th Ave between Windsor Pl and 16th St) at 11AM on Christmas Eve to begin plating the food and delivering to the apartments. This is an excellent service opportunity for kids! 174 Prospect Park West (b/w 12th and 13th Streets) Brooklyn, NY 11215

Food Pantries for Holiday Dinners and Help
I did a post on where to volunteer for Thanksgiving at Brooklyn food pantries. These food pantries also need help during the winter holidays- stocking, sorting, serving, setting tables and putting smiles on visitors’ faces. You can call your nearby food pantry to see how your family can help them. The full list of them is here.

We found some opportunities at Lutheran HealthCare.
A neighborhood institution since 1883, the Lutheran Medical Center expanded in order to provide support services to families, seniors, home care and more in Southwest Brooklyn.  They need help year-round too and if you are interested in options to volunteer without family, there are additional programs.

1. Reach Out and Read – Parents and their kids ages 14 and over can serve as storytime volunteers with the pediatric literacy program based in 5 of their family health centers.  Please contact Liz Berger at 718-630-7175 for more information.
2. Services for Older Adults – Parents and children of all ages would be welcomed to make cards and visit homebound senior citizens. Visits would need to be coordinated with the program due to staff supervision issues.  For more information, please contact Sr. Fran Picone at 718-630-8302 for more information. (We did this last year with the whole family. My husband brought his guitar, PA and microphones and he and the kids sang songs for 30 minutes to the senior citizens in their cafeteria. It was, hands down, one of the best experiences we have ever had as a family. It was super easy to coordinate too.)
3. Warren Street Center for Children and Families – their day care, preschool, and after-school program would welcome volunteers.  Please contact Nikki Cosby at 718-237-9578 for more information.
4. Lutheran Medical Center – The main hospital’s volunteer department would be happy to accept greeting cards or toys for their patients.  More extensive volunteering would be limited to kids ages 14 and up.  For more information, please call Mary Hetherington at 718-630-7296.
5. Toy Drive – If you are interested in donating a toy please call Orianne at 718-630-7171.

Lutheran Family Health Centers
6025 6th Avenue
Brooklyn, NY 11220
718-630-7171

A Child Grows, 2011. | Permalink | 2 comments | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: christmas volunteer, family to volunteer, family volunteer, holiday volunteer, lutheran healthcare, lutheran hospital, lutheran medical center, park slope, reach out and read, sunset park, toy drive, visit hospital patients, visit senior citizens, where to volunteer in brooklyn

When I was a full-time employee at Barnes and Noble (for far too long at the age of 21 and 22 years), I invested my paycheck in books. I didn’t just buy art books or fiction books, but childrens’ books. I have a grand collection of childrens’ books from that time. After all, I did work in the children’s department when I got kicked out of the adult section for reorganizing the tattoo books into the art section and out of sociology. Sigh to the uncreative manager I had at Barnes and Noble. Because of my love for books, each year I invest in new holiday books for our bookshelves. Here are some newly published ones that I recommend.

Books  About Winter

Red Sled
Lita Judge
Ages 2-5 years
$16.99
This book has gotten starred reviews from virtually all the heavy book reviewers out there: Publishers Weekly, Kirkus and the School Library Journal. This special book deserves it. The simple plot allows for some flat-out gleeful fun. A bear finds a red sled propped up on the side of a cabin and, intrigued, takes it for a spin- along with all his woodland pals. Each page shows a new creature holding on for the sled ride of its life. The text consists entirely of the animals sounds as they react to the wild and meandering sled ride. When my 5 year old saw the book he told me it was a “baby book.” After 2 pages of hearing it read aloud,  he clambered up on the bed and giggled at the sounds and illustrations. This book is one of my 3  year old new favorites. Delightful book.

Stars
Mary Lyn Ray
Illustrated by: Marla Frazee
Ages 2-6
$16.99
This book has garnered accolades from Book List, Publishers Weekly and others for not only the two-time Caldecott Honor winner Marla Frazee’s illustrations, but the breezy language of this new book.  We love this book in our family and it has become a frequently requested read at night. This book has in it the spirit of “Owl Moon”- that if we look, hear and feel- there is wonder in the world everywhere. There are stars in the moss that climbs the tree, stars in snowflakes and stars in the dried up leaves of dandelions. Stars can also transform: a star sticker can make a child a sheriff, a star wand can bestow wishes and you can even wish on a star. This lovely book creates wonderful opportunities for you to discuss abstract thoughts through visual symbols. I feel sure that this will become a classic book over time.

Books  About Christmas

The Twelve Days of Christmas
Laurel Long
Dial $16.99
All Ages
This new book has gorgeous and intricate drawings that illustrate the famous song with shades of symbolism. But, what’s truly unique about it is that each day’s new gift is repeated in each sequential drawing- and they are hidden throughout each page. Kids ages 5 years and up will love searching for the hidden doves or rings until the book culminates in one fantastical spread, incorporating each days’ gift.  The younger set might struggle with finding the items in the busy illustrations, but can enjoy the book nonetheless.

The Magical Christmas Horse
Mary Higgins Clark
Illustrated by: Wendell Minor
Ages 4-8 years
$17.99
This adult fiction author is a master of suspense and she uses it to captivate younger readers with her new Christmas book. Young Johnny goes to visit his grandparents for Christmas on their tree farm. He remembers a special rocking horse in his grandparents’ attic which he wants to give to his little brother for a Christmas present. When it’s nowhere to be found, he goes searching.  This nostalgic book is a sweet reminder of how wonderful and magical it can feel to be at a grandparents’ home for the holiday. The traditional drawings illustrate the sweeping rural farm and cozy interiors of the farmhouse.

Books  About Hanukkah

The Hanukkah Hop
Erica Silverman
Illustrated by: Steven D’Amico
Ages 3-6
$12.99
This feels like the perfect Brooklyn Hanukkah story. Rachel and her parents prepare their apartment for a party- including a rocking klezmer band.  They sing, light candles and dance the Hanukkah Hop. The rythmic rhyming lyrics are fun to read aloud and have a distinctive beebop beat to them. The 1960′s style mod illustrations are in perfect timing with the beat of the words. It all makes for a lively, youthful take on celebrating Hanukkah.

Eight Winter Nights
Laura Krass Melmed
Illustrated by: Elisabeth Schlossberg
All ages
$11.55
I got this book not because I love the story- in fact, there is none- but because it explains the traditions of Hanukkah so clearly with carefully constructed (but not overly wordy) rhymes. There are a lot of Hanukkah books out there that set out to explain the traditions of the Festival of Lights with either language that is too didactic or twisted around to make a rhyme that doesn’t really work. Laura Krass Melmed does an excellent job of finding just the right rhymes to make the lyrics easily understandable to even 3 year olds.  It’s a perfect primer for a child that wants to understand the holiday. The illustrations are done in pastel and have a warm, fuzzy feel that contribute to the feeling of a cozy family gathering.

A Child Grows, 2011. | Permalink | 2 comments | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: 2011 christmas books, 2011 hanukkah books, best christmas books for children, best hanukkah books for children, best holiday books, best kids holiday books, eight winter nights, holiday book reviews, kids holiday books, red sled by lita judge, stars by mary lyn ray, the hanukkah hop, the magical christmas horse, the red sled, twelve days of christmas

This shows you the 3 easy steps to making your video

Santa Claus is now online, and available to send a personalized video message to your kids. This is one of my kids favorite “Santa sightings. The customized videos feel magical: how did Santa know who they were, what they wanted and get that photo from Halloween?! And the magic for you? You don’t have to leave your home to do it and it takes about 8 minutes. Sound good? Read on…..

Just head to the Portable North Pole, load some photos up of your children, write in some details and voila! Santa looks in “his book” at your kids’ photos, reminds them to do some behaviour you have been egging them to do all year (like be kind to their brother), mentions a gift they have been asking for, and reminds them to be good. It’s adorable, fun and priceless…and it’s all for free! My kids loved it and watched the video endlessly.

Here is a screenshot of the book I made for my daughter

A Child Grows, 2011. | Permalink | No comment | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: custom message from santa, custom video from santa, message from santa, online santa greeting, portable north pole, santa book, santa reading to kids, see santa online, video message from santa

Gingerbread is a term used for a spiced molasses confection that ranges from a soft cake to a crisp, flat cookie. Sometimes it’s light, sometimes dark. Sometimes it’s sweet, sometimes spicy. It’s always delicious and is most fun when made into gingerbread men or their candy-covered, usually Victorian-inspired homes.

Making gingerbread men is pretty straight forward: buy a cookie cutter, cut dough, bake, decorate. Gingerbread houses, on the other hand, are a bit more involved. It’s easiest to buy a kit but, if you want to make your own, you can keep it simple by using a downloadable template or make your own from plan-to-finish.

However you go—store bought, homemade or something in between—here’s a roundup of resources to help you make a fab gingerbread house for your Christmas holiday!

Gingerbread Dough & Royal Icing Recipes
* Low-fat gingerbread perfect for making men or a house
* How to Make a Gingerbread House, complete with dough and royal icing recipes, on Simply Recipes
* Gingerbread House recipe, complete with royal icing, from the Food Network
* How to Make a Gingerbread House, complete with dough and royal icing recipes, from King Arthur Flour
* Gingerbread House recipe, complete with royal icing, from Bon Appetit

Gingerbread House Patterns
* All but the low-fat recipe above come with templates for traditional looking gingerbread houses; the ones from Simply Recipes and King Arthur Flour are my favorites
* This is a great list of free, downloadable gingerbread house patterns with a traditional look
* For the last couple of years, the brilliant minds behind Hometta, a company that brings a modern and eco point-of-view to the stock housing market, have created a free, downloadable gingerbread house plan for a modern gingerbread house. Beautiful!
* No list of patterns would be complete without Martha’s sweet, simple Swedish Gingerbread House

Pre-Baked Kits
* Wilton, makers of baking supplies, offer a Pre-Baked Gingerbread House Kit (also available in other sizes)
* Williams-Sonoma’s Winter Wonderland Gingerbread House Kit
* At Sur La Table you can choose between a Gingerbread Manor or Chalet

Pre-Built Kits
* This Dancing Deer gingerbread house comes assembled, but without any colorful candy decoration—they leave that last bit of detail fun for you and kiddo.
* If all you want to do is unwrap, this Gingerbread House from Red Envelope is what you need. Done and done.

More Inspiration
* These image search results for Gingerbread House Plan has some great inspiration
* Or if you want to go modern, check out these image results for modern gingerbread house
* This how-to (sans template) for making a mid-century modern gingerbread house is pretty cool, too
* If this Cake Study House from last year doesn’t inspire some creative thought, I don’t know what will!
* A short video How to Make a Gingerbread House with Kids

*********
Kids change the way we cook, but they don’t have to change how well we eat. Read more of Stacie’s family-friendly recipes and tips at One Hungry Mama.

A Child Grows, 2011. | Permalink | 2 comments | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: gingerbread, gingerbread house, gingerbread house kits, gingerbread house recipe, gingerbread recipes

While I can’t deny that the Christmas trees that grace the pages of home design magazines are gorgeous with their artfully arranged ornaments, coordinating ribbons,and garlands, they aren’t for me.  I vowed that when I became a parent I would never have such a perfect looking tree.  A Martha Stewart approved Christmas tree would just never work with one of my beloved Barbie doll ornaments my mother has given me over the years, or my easy bake oven ornament that actually lights up and smells like cookies.  My husband’s Scooby Doo “mystery machine” ornament would definitely stick out like a sore thumb.

My love of quirky ornaments probably started when I was little, and my sister and I would actually argue over who got to hang my dad’s vintage spaceman ornament on our tree.  It was his favorite ornament from when he was a kid in the 1950’s, and it was always the star of our family tree.  I still get excited each year as I unwrap our ornaments and remember who gave it to me or where and when I bought it.  Like the undeniably cheesy Lenox bride and groom ornament I bought the year of my wedding.  Or the birthstone ornament I bought with my daughter’s name on it.

So when I passed by Authentiques Past and Present in Manhattan and saw a spaceman ornament much like my father’s in the window, I had to go inside.  Authentiques, which has been in business for over thirty years is a mini Christmas wonderland. Every inch of the store is covered in Christmas decorations. They have reasonably priced vintage ornaments, new ornaments in every shape from robots and Eiffel towers to fruits and vegetables, star toppers, and reindeers for your yard.  They also have fantastic vintage gifts a la Mad Men.  Ashtrays, cocktail glasses, and jewelry.  My daughter was so excited to be in the shop that she actually listened to me when I told her NOT to touch anything.  The two gentlemen who were working that day gave June her very own basket to put her ornaments in and carefully wrapped her selection up with double the bubble wrap so that she could carry it herself.  We’ll be back to pick out another ornament next year, and I’m glad that my daughter will now be part of our Christmas tradition – and I’m wondering which ornament she’ll be most excited to unwrap.  Will it be Barbie?  The easy bake oven?  Or her very own robot?

Authentiques Past and Present
255 West 18th Street (between 7th and 8th Aves)
New York, NY 10011
212-675-2179
Closed Mondays and Tuesdays, Wed-Sat from 12-6 pm and Sunday from 1-6 pm

Paula Balzer

*********
Paula Balzer is a Brooklyn based literary agent and co-founder of the blog www.adhocmom.com, the blog for freelance and part-time working moms.

A Child Grows, 2011. | Permalink | 2 comments | Add to del.icio.us
Post tags: authentiques, authentiques past and present, christmas ornament, christmas shop, glass ornament, manhattan, new york city, ornaments, store in chelsea, vintage ornament, west 18th street