Parental Urban Legends- Early Care Edition

Permalink to Parental%20Urban%20Legends-%20Early%20Care%20Edition

Published: 04/03/2013

Parental Urban Legends- Early Care Edition

by Denise Stern

One of my favorite phrases PWC Moms has coined is “Varsity Moms,” which pretty much describes this audience. These are the moms with 2 or more kids who can tell you at the drop of a hat which pediatrician has the best waiting room times, which restaurants offer kids-eat-free-nights and just when exactly you might expect to reach the finish line of Sleeping Through the Night.

Varsity Moms, I ask you--- please help first time parents by squashing the Top 3 myths of infant care that have permeated the parenting landscape, but are just plain wrong.

Photo credit, Micaela Williamson

Myth #1 – Putting rice cereal in baby’s bottle will help baby sleep longer

There is absolutely no evidence that shows that thickening milk or formula with cereal will make baby sleep longer at night. In fact, the most cited study on this topic, (Infant Sleep and bedtime cereal) heartily disproves this parental urban legend.

In our desperation to “tank baby up” and buy an extra hour of rest, we often think that a fuller stomach = sleep. This is true when we give baby milk before bed to ensure that s/he doesn’t wake unnecessarily from hunger but the addition of rice cereal does not help baby sleep longer.

Why People Swear it Works:

When parents introduce rice cereal in baby’s bottle, it is typically at the 8-12 week mark, when parents have about had it with getting up 3-4 times overnight. The fact is, baby is naturally sleeping longer stretches at this time anyway. Thickening formula receives the credit for what baby is doing naturally.

Myth #2 – Mylicon will Eliminate Gas and Soothe your Baby

This myth is near and dear to my heart because I desperately believed it myself with my own 3 kids. Study after study definitively demonstrates that Simethicone (the generic name for gas drops) is no more or less effective as a placebo. In a nutshell? Gas drops don’t work.

Why People Swear it Works:

EVERYONE recommends Simethicone drops. No one does not recommend them. Once again parents of newborns just want to soothe their babies and I know you will be shocked to hear this, but marketing companies love to capitalize on that so they sell, sell, sell a harmless but useless product.

And once again, it is caregiver and baby who should be given the credit for getting that uncomfortable gas out of baby’s tummy. Slow feeds, lots of burping and gently switching position or massaging baby to get gas out after feeding are the real reasons baby is comforted.

Myth #3 – Putting baby to sleep later at night will make them sleep later in the morning

We’ve all done this one. According to pediatric sleep specialist, Dr. Lisa Meltzer, “the internal clock is a powerful force that typically wakes young children up around the same time every morning, no matter what time they go to sleep at night." This means that putting baby to sleep later only robs them of sleep they should be getting. This then contributes to the overtired cycle the next day, making it more difficult for baby to settle and rest again.

Why People Swear it Works:

Because it would work for adults and seems correct. And again, we just want to figure out how to help that baby sleep. When we do wear out our little ones and they sleep for long stretches out of sheer exhaustion, we receive another “false positive.” Keeping baby awake longer than their bodies need may work for one night or one nap, but baby just can’t sustain fighting against their natural rhythms.

What Parental Urban legends can you add? And which do you see as baby gets older?

Denise Stern is the President & CEO of Let Mommy Sleep, DC’s first and only baby nurse agency. Denise and her team of nurses & speech pathologists offer sleep consultations and overnight care to families of newborns and infants.

3 Comments | Share:

12 Days of Giveaways: Baby Blossom

Permalink to 12%20Days%20of%20Giveaways%3A%20Baby%20Blossom

Published: 12/19/2012

Baby Blossom has been a great sponsor of giveaways all year long, and this giveaway is no exception! They've got a great baby gear item just for a lucky PwcMoms reader! Enter using the Rafflecopter under the description.

Mamas & Papas Snug Seat & Tray -- Teal ($60 retail)

Ergonomically designed to provide support and comfort, this first seat adjusts as your baby grows. With the tray included it is easy to clean and lightweight, perfect when you're on the move and suitable for inside and outside use.

1st stage: for use when baby can support their own head (from 3 months approx.)
2nd stage: when baby outgrows the 1st stage seat (from 12 months approx)
Soft and comfortable, designed to keep baby snug and in place
Removable tray aids play times and meal times
Lightweight for easy transportation
Easy to clean
Rigid crotch post for added safety
Comfortable and easy to clean
Ideal seat for baby during early stages of weaning
Baby's first seat - ergonomically designed to provide support and comfort
Two piece seat that adjusts as your baby grows - just remove the seat insert

a Rafflecopter giveaway

0 Comments | Share:

12 Days of Giveaways: Little Pim Language DVDs

Permalink to 12%20Days%20of%20Giveaways%3A%20Little%20Pim%20Language%20DVDs

Published: 12/17/2012

Thank you all for your patience as I let this space be quiet in respect for all of us as we processed the events of the last few days. I'll catch up on the giveaways, but sometimes we all need a moment to reflect, especially with such great tragedy.

I was asked to try the Little Pim series of educational DVDs and I was very excited to give it a go. We pay pretty decent money at a preschool that teaches a foreign language for our daughter, but since I speak (spoke, in college) Russian and French, I'm not much help with the German she gets at school.

As background, Little Pim was created by the daughter of Dr. Paul Pimsleur, who developed the Pimsleur method of learning languages for adults. They call the approach in the Little Pim series "Educational Immersion", and it is targeted at children ages 5 and under. For more about the development, methodology and approach, you can check out the Little Pim Website.

So, remember when Baby Einstein was a thing? (Maybe it still is, I'm a few years out from babies) This is a similar format with a simple animated Panda between footage of actual people doing things. It's all immersion, so there's no English, although there are subtitles for parents who need help with pronunciation. In German that wasn't an issue at all, but in reading reviews from other sites, some users complained that in languages like Russian and Chinese, the subtitles were phonetic and native speakers teaching their children often felt like they'd do the phonetics differently, or they wanted their child exposed to the alphabet of the language they were learning.

Each DVD is divided into 5 minute mini episodes, so if you are really trying to get a younger child to focus, they only have to do it for a brief stretch. My daughter sat down to watch this with my husband. She's 4 and he's in his 30s, and he did such a great job learning German, I'm very proud ;)
My daughter loved the DVD and at her age, she stayed focused intently for half the DVD, and then said her brain needed a break. She's already asked if she can watch again tomorrow. I assume that they use the same footage for each DVD and just put the language over the top because our first DVD was food/eating themed and we learned how to say "rice" and "chopsticks", but we also learned "strawberries", "kiwi", "cake", and "the oven is hot". I'm not an expert, but I know that this approach seemed to work quickly for my daughter (and my husband) because they could see the actual item being used and hear the words.

You can order Little Pim in gift sets like the one above, for $169, which includes books, DVDs, music CDs, a plush, a backpack, and flash cards, but only in French or Spanish. Other languages, including Chinese, Italian, German, Japanese, Arabic, Hebrew, English ESL, English ENG, and Portuguese, are available in 1 DVD or 3 DVD packs for $34.95 or $59.95.

(Shhh.....until the 19th you can get them over at Groupon, too)

Anyhow, I like the DVD concept. I'm not going really dedicated to the idea of being bilingual by age four, so I enjoy that I can provide my child with learning materials she can use on her own, working at her own pace. Could you really work these up into a language curriculum program for your toddler? Sure- but it's really nice to just pop in the DVD while you're making dinner, too. I think we might pick up a few other German DVDs for my daughter, but if you'd like to get your own starter DVD for free, enter to win! Best of luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I was provided with a DVD to try and with one to give away to one of you lovely lucky people. Shipping will be directly from Little Pim. PwcMoms is not responsible for your child walking around speaking a language you don't understand. Winner assumes all liability.

16 Comments | Share:

Giveaway: Cosatto OTM Highchair from Baby Blossom

Published: 11/20/2012

It's November, a time to be thankful. Personally, I am so thankful for the people and businesses who support this website. Believe it or not, it takes a lot of time to do updates, blog posts, and giveaways, and it costs money to host content. I am also thakful for the cool stuff that my family gets to do, but having a business say they support families in our area by actually sponsoring the content here on Prince William County Moms means so much to me, and it should mean a lot to you, too. When Baby Blossom supports PwcMoms.com, they're effectively saying they're willing to spend money so you can continue to have the content and calendar that you come here to utilize. I encourage you to support them, in return.

This month, Baby Blossom is offering a great giveaway item, just in time for some of those big holiday meals!! Whether you're dining at home, at a restaurant, or traveling to Grammy's house (and you know that grammy doesn't have a high chair anymore!) this High Chair will have you covered.

Cosatto On The Move High Chair

Retail Value: $149

Cosatto's On the Move highchair is ideal for babies and families who are always on the go. Equally stylish and functional, it features a one-hand, single action fold/unfold, extra-lightweight but sturdy frame, footrest, wipe clean tray and removable polyester seat pad. Five-point harness is adjustable to provide sitting comfort for your growing baby and the seat's funky colors and cute vegetable graphics tell anyone and everyone that it's your little one's time to eat. Convenient travel bag included. Suitable for children 6 months and older up to 35 lbs.

What a great prize for those of you that travel during the holidays (or anytime, really!). I would have loved to have a high-chair that folded up that easily just for when we went down the street to neighbors that didn't have babies anymore!

Enter using the Rafflecopter below. Contest ends next week on November 28, 2012.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

5 Comments | Share:

Baby Blossom Giveaway!

Permalink to Baby%20Blossom%20Giveaway%21%20

Published: 09/24/2012

Our friends at Baby Blossom are offering a fun giveaway for the end of September!

Owner David has written for you all before- specifically with his discussion of double strollers for one of our PwcMoms readers, and he's got a stroller for one lucky reader this week!!

Enter below by leaving a comment for your chance to win a Combi Flare!! One entry per person, contest closes on Sunday night, September 30, at midnight. Our last Combi giveaway was very popular- good luck to everyone entering!!

Combi Flare Stroller in Kiwi

The lightweight Flare stroller (only 11 pounds!) with the quick 3-Second Fold, folds easily and compactly and is self-standing. An easily adjustable, reclining seat, footrest and 5-point harness make for a safe and comfortable environment for your child. The adjustable canopy includes a storage pocket. The carrying strap, storage basket, removable padded guardrail, removable child cup holder, and washable seat cushion add convenience. Compatible with the Combi Shuttle 33 infant car seat (not included). Recommended for children from six months (without use of Combi Shuttle) up to 55 pounds.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

One entry per person. Baby Blossom is a paid advertiser of PwcMoms.com and is providing one winner with a Combi Flare stroller. Prize listed may not be exchanged or redeemed for cash. Winner must claim prize within 3 days. Winner name will be posted on this page as well as on a congratulatory note on Facebook. Prize is provided by Baby Blossom, winner assumes all liability, PwcMoms is not responsible for any problems, accidents, etc. Please use your stroller responsibly.

28 Comments | Share:

Guest Post: Play is Exercise for Children

Permalink to Guest%20Post%3A%20Play%20is%20Exercise%20for%20Children

Published: 09/06/2012

Play = Exercise

Watch a young child playing and you will notice how much they move their body. Children will walk, run, sprint, lift, squat, jump, climb, and stretch; all of the things we pay a personal trainer to tell us to do! The children are doing it because they enjoy it! Play is a form of exercise for children AND parents. During play, children are usually laughing, smiling, encouraging each other, sweating, and high fiving each other when they accomplish something together. These children are exercising and moving their bodies, but to them they are just playing and having fun! When we play with our children, we not only reap the benefits of exercise, we also form a stronger bond.

Children need and want to move. As parents and child care providers, we must provide children with opportunities to move. Children are action-orientated and like to be challenged mentally and physically. Movement promotes physical fitness and the enhancement of a positive self-image, self-confidence, creativity, and self expression. Movement has also been proven to stimulate the learning process. Early motor development has been recognized by physical educators and human development specialists to be one of the most important factors in the optimum physical, mental, academic, and overall development of your child.

We are all aware of the increase in childhood obesity in Prince William County. Obesity can lead to numerous health issues. By encouraging movement and increasing opportunities available to our young children they will naturally develop an enjoyment of moving their bodies and gain self confidence to accomplish anything in school and life.

Here are a few ideas to get you started:

INFANTS

Bicycle baby’s legs and arms gently to stretch out large muscles. Afterwards, lay baby on back and do push-ups, give baby a kiss for each one completed.
Supervised tummy time helps back and neck strength for the baby. Lie on your stomach beside the baby; arch your back and move arms and legs like a swimmer.
Hold older baby up and encourage them to jump up and down. Use your biceps to lift baby higher and lower gently to work your arms.

TODDLERS

Use a large ball to kick around with your child. “Race” your child to get the ball.
Place child’s favorite doll/toy in a wagon and have child pull. Walk beside wagon.
Have an ‘aerobics class’ with your toddler. Turn on music and stretch, jump, and dance. Your toddler will imitate your movements.

AGES 2-3 YEAR OLDS

Play Monkey See, Monkey Do utilizing different arm and leg positions, bending activities and other body movements.
Have your child throw balls or bean bags into a laundry basket.
Play a simple game of Follow the Leader through an easy obstacle course, using small blocks or chairs to step or climb over. Use the entire room.

AGES 3-4 YEAR OLDS

Have your child toss bean bags or balls into a box while pretending the box is a mouth of an animal that you are feeding.
Set up an obstacle course with streets and bridges to go through, over, and under by driving their imaginary car, bus, or train.
Play imagination games where you ask your child to be different things such as an airplane, popping popcorn, a floating balloon, frog, and various animals. Demonstrate when necessary but encourage your child to use their imagination.

AGES 4-5 YEAR OLDS

Have your child move to music use movement words such as: run, gallop, hop, skip, spin, twist, jump, and roll. ‘Freeze’ when the music stops.
Give your child a balloon and challenge them to keep it up in the air and not let it hit the ground. Volley the balloon back and forth to each other.
Provide a tumbling mat or carpet area where they can perform somersaults and other tumbling exercises.

Get moving - you and your child will have FUN!

Kathy Harju and Christy Moore recently opened their own child care center, Above & Beyond Child Care, in Manassas. While working together for Prince William County supervising children's programs, they both realized they had the same dream of opening their own center. Kathy and Christy have the same positive, energetic approach to working with children and enjoy it immensely. They have a combined total of 45 years of child care experience. They are looking forward to serving the Manassas area and would love to meet you and your child!

Website: www.abovebeyondkids.com

Phone: 703-361-2692

Email: abovebeyondkids@gmail.com

0 Comments | Share:

Giveaway: Combi Flare Stroller

Published: 06/28/2012

Our friends at Baby Blossom are offering a fun giveaway this week!

Following on the heels of owner David's discussion of double strollers for one of our PwcMoms readers, he's got a stroller for one lucky reader this week!!

Enter below by leaving a comment for your chance to win a Combi Flare!! One entry per person, contest closes on Saturday night, June 30, at midnight. Winner will be announced Sunday evening.

Combi Flare Stroller in Kiwi

49 Comments | Share:

All About Double Strollers!

Permalink to All%20About%20Double%20Strollers%21

Published: 06/19/2012

I recieved the following question from a reader:

Hello PwMoms, I am getting ready to have my second baby, and I need a new stroller. With the first one I bought the Graco travel system because it seemed like everyone bought that, but I didn't really look around and I haven't really loved it. I like the snap-in carseat thing, but it's heavy and awkward and for my next stroller I really want something light and functional that will fit a preschooler and an infant and fit in my car. I also want to run, but maybe I can't get it all in one place? I'd love your recommendations.

Listen, y'all, if there's one thing I know, it's when I don't know something. I, too, purchased a travel system and then became insanely interested in baby wearing because tying a Moby wrap one of 723 different ways was so much less complicated than that stroller!

If there's two things I know, it's when I don't know, I should ask an expert!! It just so happens that one of our fabulous sponsors is BabyBlossom- so their owner, David, took this question on for me!

For many people, it's easier to buy a car than a stroller. Add a second child into the equation and things get even more complex.

Let's start with your last comment first...about running/jogging strollers. You shouldn't jog until the baby is six to twelve months old -- always check with your pediatrician first to make sure the little one is good to go and verify that the jogging stroller is rated for your baby's age. For this conversation, we'll skip talk about the jogging stroller.

Moving on to a double stroller, there are many, many options. But let's focus on some of the preferences you mentioned: Lighter weight and compact (and appropriate for two).

If you think you'll be rolling along sidewalks and at shopping malls (smoother surfaces) then the Baby Jogger City Mini Double and the Maclaren Twin Triumph immediately come to mind. They're compact (about 25 lbs or so), easy to fold, and can accommodate a newborn (with some extra head support). The City Mini Double can take one infant car seat (with an optional adapter). If you can wait until the baby is about three months old (when he/she can the head up) then the Kinderwagon Hop could work. It's about the size of an umbrella stroller but has two (front-to-back) seats that each handle 40 lbs. At 22 lbs, it's about the lightest double stroller on the market.

If you're more inclined to stroll on rougher surfaces (parks, trails, etc) then the new Baby Jogger City Mini GT Double is worth considering. It's based on the popular City Mini Double but has larger, beefier tires, bigger seats, and other features (it is a bit heavier than the regular City Mini Double).

If you're willing to add a bit more weight in exchange for more versatility (reversing and/or removable second seat; larger tires; increased storage)and cost then there other strollers to check out: Baby Jogger City Select, UPPAbaby Vista, Britax B-Ready, Phil & Teds Explorer to name a few.

One important point to mention is to make sure you try out any double stroller before you buy. Bring your preschooler and see how he/she fits - not every child will comfortably fit in every double stroller (or any stroller for that matter). If your #1 child is in the 3-4 age range then this could be especially important.

Comments/Suggestions? Share them below!! Thanks so much to Baby Blossom for their help with this question!

4 Comments | Share:

Sleep 101 from Let Mommy Sleep

Permalink to Sleep%20101%20from%20Let%20Mommy%20Sleep

Published: 06/02/2012

Let Mommy Sleep is presenting a Mission: Sleep fundraiser that will help out moms all over Prince William County! Join them in Bristow for a Sleep 101 class for new parents! Let Denise from Let Mommy Sleep help you learn to gently sleep train your baby so that you can get some much-needed rest!! Register at www.letmommysleep.eventbrite.com or call 703-201-2190. Class schedule is as follows:

-June 6th "Baby Steps: The Schedule"

-June 13th "Yes, Virginia! You WILL Sleep Again"

-June 20th "The Future of Sleep"

All classes are from 10-11am. $50/class or purchase the entire series for $120. This would be a great gift for a new mom, or even a mom to be, too!

0 Comments | Share:

Baby Blossom Bugaboo Stroller Contest

Permalink to Baby%20Blossom%20Bugaboo%20Stroller%20Contest

Published: 05/14/2012

Bugaboo Cameleon Stroller Giveaway!

Grand Prize:

Bugaboo Cameleon Stroller ($980 retail value)

Three First Prizes:

$100 Baby Blossom Gift Certificate

Enter May 14 through May 23. Winners announced May 24, 2012.

Baby Blossom is pleased to partner with PwcMoms.com, Supernovamommy, and Real Housewives of Northern Virginia and Dulles Moms on our biggest giveaway ever! Visit each site to enter (one entry per website per person).

One winner will be randomly selected from each of the participating blogs/websites. The grand prize winner (for the Bugaboo Cameleon) will be randomly selected from these four finalists, the remaining three winners will each receive the first prize ($100 Baby Blossom gift certificate).

TO ENTER: LEAVE A COMMENT ON THIS POST!

IMPORTANT GIVEAWAY RULES:

No purchase required.

One entry per person per participating blog/website.

Winners will pick up their prizes at a Baby Blossom location (Fairfax or Reston).

Winner of the Bugaboo Cameleon consents to be photographed and have her/his name and likeness used for publicity purposes without any further compensation.

Winners of the $100 Baby Blossom Gift Certificates consent to have their names used for publicity purposes without any further compensation.

In the unlikely event that two blogs/websites submit the same winners, Baby Blossom will ask one of the sites to submit another winner.

Want more entries? Visit

PwcMoms.com

NovaHousewives.com

SuperNovaMommy

112 Comments | Share:

Week in Preview May 7th to 13th 2012

Permalink to Week%20in%20Preview%20May%207th%20to%2013th%202012

Published: 05/07/2012

A few notes for this week- we've got Teacher Appreciation Day/Week (depending on your school) so don't forget our ideas on Pinterest! Also, Mother's Day is Sunday, and if you're looking for some great ideas for mom in Prince William County, be sure to check out our post full of ideas sponsored by our friends at Let Mommy Sleep!

Also, someone emailed me to ask what happened to the "funny days", so I've added them in here :)

All week long from 3-5pm, it's Frappuccino Happy Hour at Starbucks. 1/2 price drink for you!

Monday, May 7th- Be Kind to Animals Week

It's Strawberry time, and Yankey Farms will have pick your own strawberries available. Be sure to call before heading out to make sure they haven't been picked over. Looking for other PYO items? We have a list here.

Tuesday, May 8th- Teacher Appreciation Day

Teacher Moms- note that the Chick Fil A on Liberia Ave will have a free sandwich (breakfast or lunch/dinner) for you all week long with your ID.

Tuesday night seems to be hot for kids eat free. Why not treat yourself to a night out of the kitchen, especially if you're a teacher!

Wednesday, May 9th- National Train Day (typically there is an event at Union Station, but not this year)

Live near Winchester? The PB&J club meets at 9am. It's a "drop-in program where kids (ages 1-5) can socialize, refind their motor skills, but most importantly Play, Bounce and Jump". $1.50 for residents, $3 for non-residents.

In the afternoon, Denise from Let Mommy Sleep will host a sleep seminar at Smalltalkers in Centreville (convenient to Manassas moms, appropriate for any of us with infants!) Tickets are $20 at smalltalkersllc.com and all proceeds go to Mission Sleep.

In the evening, head to Ben Lomond Historic Site from 6 p.m. - 8 p.m. $1 when coming from the Sudley Manor Rd Chick-Fil-A. $2 for everyone else, for a Family Night about gardening. Children will be able to pick herbs and make a sachet.

Thursday, May 10th- NATIONAL CLEAN YOUR ROOM DAY (true story!!)

Well, I think the Clean Your Room Day says it all, but if your kids already have their rooms clean (ha!) then there are some great library and story events including Nokesville Library with Miss Glenna (10:30am), Abby's Lane (11am), Shenanigans at Central Library (4pm, Pre-register by phone is now allowed!), and Family Craft Night at Chinn (7pm).

Friday, May 11th- Military Spouse's Day

At 10am, LLL Manassas has their open meeting at Abby's Lane. Children are welcome, and nursing is, of course permitted!

Have older children? There's student ID night at Laser Quest (Woodbridge) in the evening, too!

Saturday, May 12th- Limerick Day

Decorate a cake for mom at Wegmans (all locations are participating, but times and prices vary). Wegmans Gainesville will also have two session of Kids in the Kitchen "Speedy Breakfast". Sign up in advance at the customer service counter for $5.

It's the opening day of the Virginia Renaissance Faire!! Be sure to check them out! It's also opening day closer to home at the Birchdale Skate Park at 10:30am.

Sunday, May 13th- Mother's Day

In addition to all the Mother's Day ideas, check out "The Lion, The Witch and The Wardrobe" at 2pm in Manassas brought to you by Kaleidoscope Theatre Company. This show is at Bull Run Regional Library and all ages are welcome.

0 Comments | Share:

Guest Post: Make Your Own Baby Wipes

Permalink to Guest%20Post%3A%20Make%20Your%20Own%20Baby%20Wipes

Published: 05/03/2012

Save Money, Baby! Make Your Own Baby Wipes

We’re all trying to save a few bucks wherever we can, right? A couple of years ago, my husband and I were combing over our budget and diapers and wipes were, of course, costing us a fortune. There was not going to be an end to it any time soon, with three little tushies in the house, only one of which had completed the potty training stage at that point.

Add to that, I had been concerned for some time about all the chemicals in baby wipes. I have kids with super-sensitive skin and I don’t think wipes were helping the matter. So I decided to make my own. Guess what? It’s super easy, it saves a ton of money and they are much better for your kiddos’ skin.

Here’s what you need:

Viva brand papertowels

Water and a gallon container to put it in

Tea tree essential oil

A container for your wipes

Optional: ¼ cup of oil (olive oil or almond oil are commonly used)

A few words about the products:

· I use Viva brand paper towels because they are the softest. The least expensive place to buy them (trust me, I have looked around and done the math) is Wegmans, if you buy them in the multi-pack.

· Tea tree oil is a natural antibacterial disinfectant. (If you don’t care for the smell of tea tree oil, you could use lavender essential oil.) It comes in a little tiny bottle but you only use a few drops at a time. I bought mine at Whole Foods, but you can find this at most health food stores or order on line.

· Adding olive or almond oil to the solution helps the wipes glide over the skin and softens the skin. I never used oil in my wipes, as I didn’t come across this suggestion until now, but if dry skin is an issue, this would help.

· I used an empty gallon milk jug to mix my water and tea tree oil.

· I used a clear plastic “shoe box” container that I got for $1 at Home Depot.

Here’s what to do:

· Fill the clean gallon jug with water and add 10 to 12 drops of Tea Tree Oil. Shake.

· Tear the paper towels off of the roll. Cut in half. For newborns, cut in quarters. I make a big pile and cut them all at once, as much as my kitchen scissors can handle. My older kiddos have loved to tear off the paper towels so sometimes, that is their job.

· Place the towels in the shoe box container. Pour the water and oil mixture over the towels so they are damp but not soaked. Use within a couple of days. If you don’t go through wipes that quickly, don’t put so many in the container. You want the solution on the paper towels to be fresh, discouraging mold.

Keep all of your supplies wherever you change diapers so you can refill your box in a flash. Nothing like going to change an explosive poopy diaper and having no wipes but if you have everything handy, you can throw a new pile of paper towels in your box, douse them with the mix and you’re ready to go.

Julie lives in Loudoun County, VA and homeschools her now-8 and 6 year olds while her 3 year old demands endless snacks. But, hey, he’s finally potty trained, so life is good. She blogs about her family’s learning adventures at Creekside Learning

1 Comments | Share:

Weekly Library Programs

Permalink to Weekly%20Library%20Programs

Published: 04/18/2012

Someone asked today about Library Storytimes. These programs are fantastic because they're free, recurring, and generally do not require you to arrive early for a token, although some do. If you've been to one of these storytimes, please share your opinions on it in the comments section below! These programs are generally offered each week, although they may be cancelled due to holidays, school being out, renovations, etc. They are also listed on our calendar, and we remove them when we know they are cancelled.

Most of these programs are for preschool aged children, unless otherwise noted. Other special events targeted at families or older children also happen, but are typically one-time events, also listed on our calendar.

Monday
Spanish Circle Time, Bull Run Library, 11am
Lunch Bunch, Chinn Library, ONCE A MONTH, 12pm
Bedtime Story Hour, Chinn Library, 7:15pm
Beginning with Books, Chinn Library, ALTERNATING WEEKS/PREREGISTER, 10:30am
Mishmash, Potomac Library, 2pm

Tuesday
Tales for Two's and Three's at Bull Run Library, 10:30am and 11am
Tuesday Storytimes, Independent Hill Library, 10:30am
Tuesday Tales, Chinn Library, 10:30am
Music and Motion, Central Library, ALTERNATING WEEKS, 10:45am

Wednesday
Magic Carpet Story Time, Potomac Library, 10:30am
Storytime, Dale City Library, 10:30am
Wednesday Storytime, Independent Hill Library, 10:30am
Wendesday Wonders, Chinn Library, 10:30am
Wonderful Ones (12-24 months), Bull Run Library, 10:30am
Muncha Buncha Books, Central Library, 10:45am

Thursday
Preschool Pals, Bull Run Library, 10:30am and 11:15am
Muncha Buncha Books, Central Library, 10:45am
Shenanigans (K-5), Central Library ALTERNATING WEEKS/PREREGISTER, 4pm-5pm
Book Babies, Potomac Library, ALTERNATING WEEKS/PREREGISTER, 10:30am
Thursday Storytime, Lake Ridge Library, 10:30am
Story Time with Miss Glenna, Nokesville Library, 10:30am
Bedtime Stories, Potomac Library ALTERNATING WEEKS, 7:30pm

Friday
Friday Flicks, Chinn Library, 10:30am

Saturday
Saturday Stories, Bull Run Library, 11am
Second Saturday Story and Craft, Chinn Library, SECOND SATURDAY, 10:30am

Sunday

0 Comments | Share:

Baby Blossom Car Seat Check April 21, 2012

Permalink to Baby%20Blossom%20Car%20Seat%20Check%20April%2021%2C%202012

Published: 04/11/2012

Baby Blossom in Reston will be holding a Car Seat Check up event on April 21st. This isn't a PWC event, but it's an important one! If you haven't purchased a car seat yet (we have some PwcMoms-to-be) you can even check out the various models at Baby Blossom and have the seat installed while you're there!

0 Comments | Share:

3 Lake Ridge Tot Lots

Permalink to 3%20Lake%20Ridge%20Tot%20Lots

Published: 03/21/2012

Lake Ridge has several tot lots which are fantastic for a few reasons. First, they're less crowded. Unlike Fantasy Playground, which is a "destination park", these are more like neighborhood play spots, which are still fun but have less than 1.3 million children. Second, they're shaded. If you have a sun-sensitive child (or heat-sensitive), these can be great options. Finally....I don't know, I always feel like there should be 3 things. Maybe I'll come up with one if you read to the end, but I'm not making any promises.

So....we have:
Corner of Antietam and Seminole

Recently renovated, this playground has some really fun play spaces and has both baby swings and "big kid" swings. It's mulch (as opposed to pea gravel, which is the bane of my feet's existence), but as a word of caution, there's a "creek" behind it that is really a drainage area, so you'll want to exercise your best judgement about whether your kids should be able to jump in it with reckless abandon. Mine have been known to play by it and have not yet sprouted 3rd arms. Parking is street only, which is limited until 5pm. No public restrooms.

Intersection of Mohican and Stoneford

This particular play area is close enough to Fantasy Playground that you could hit it with a rock. Not really, and you shouldn't throw rocks, but it is close, which is nice if it's too crowded and you need to switch. It's up in the woods and hard to see from the street, but trust me, it's there. Street parking. If you walk just past the playground, there's a basketball court. No public restrooms.

2/3rds of the way down Mohican between Edgemoor and Calloway (but on the left)

Are you noticing that all of the play structures look very similar? Me, too. This particular one is nice because it's shaded, but right next to an open field so that you could have some younger kids playing or take some older ones with a soccer or football, and everyone could have a great time! Street parking, no public restrooms, mulch.

So, you get the idea. There are a total of 18 tot lots in Lake Ridge, and they tend to follow a pattern. Want to share your favorite location with us? Leave a comment with the GPS or intersection!

0 Comments | Share:

Featrued Organization Friday: Rockin' for Preemies/Preemies Today

Permalink to Featrued%20Organization%20Friday%3A%20Rockin%27%20for%20Preemies%2FPreemies%20Today

Published: 03/16/2012

Last Week: Coups for Troops
Relevant This Week: St. Baldrick's- it's a different group hosting this weekend, but Chick Fil A Bristow will be getting their shave on, too!

Hubby and I had a little laugh about this. Somehow the idea of a "preemie" and the idea of "rockin out" don't seem to go together- but whatever, we're about helping babies.

Preemies Today provides support, education, outreach, and a sense of support to families facing a premature birth situation. They provide local support in the form of care packages, family outings, support groups, a "Take a Break" program, and annual celebration and silent auction, in addition to a host of online support options.

Preemies Today is will be the beneficiary of a "Rockin For Preemies" Concert featuring Rocknoceros and special guests Groovy Nate and Music Together. While this isn't in PWC, it will be a great kid-friendly event benefiting families in Prince William County, so pack up the kids and head to Fairfax for a great concert for a great cause! We'll have this on our calendar, but put it on yours, too!

0 Comments | Share:

Guest Post: Bradley Classes in Manassas

Permalink to Guest%20Post%3A%20Bradley%20Classes%20in%20Manassas

Published: 03/07/2012

I am excited to introduce myself and share my passion for mothers and babies with you. I am a stay at home mother myself with two children. Ramiyah is 2 years old and Samuel is 5 months old.

My husband and I have always loved being involved in the lives of other children and families. We LOVE watching as families grow and add to their number, and of course, we LOVE babies. But, the interest in childbirth preparation was not even something that we considered for ourselves much less for others until my first pregnancy.

During my pregnancy with Ramiyah, I experienced all the normal things of pregnancy. I was nauseous, tired, moody, and a little fearful of the big day. I was excited to be having a baby but there were so many unknowns. As a first time mom, I had a lot of questions and was dying to get them all answered! I was ready to sign up for a childbirth class, but my husband was very apprehensive. I remember when I asked him to take a class; he looked at me like I had lost my mind. He was thinking, “Why do I need to commit 3 months of my life to prepare for childbirth?” In his mind it was already a done deal. I would have a contraction, go to the hospital, let the baby pop out, take it home, and we would live happily ever after. What was there to learn?

After much convincing, I won the battle and we registered for the class. I will be honest with you, even though I was thrilled to be taking such a thorough class, the thought of preparing for “natural childbirth” was a little scary. I asked myself, could I have a natural childbirth? Could I really do something that sounds so painful? What if I took the classes and then I “failed”? All of these questions filled my mind and continued throughout the class. Thankfully, I was surrounded by other moms in the same boat and a teacher that could answer my questions, settle my fears, and give me practical teaching to prepare myself for the day ahead. During our first few classes, my husband’s eyes were open to a whole new world, the world of childbirth and babies. Three classes in, I started hearing him talking to our friends about what he was learning and how important it was. The two of us began to connect in a way that we had not yet in our marriage. He began to better understand what was happening in my body, my mind, and my heart as I prepared for a new baby. All of this helped ease my mind and give me the confidence I needed. By the time the big day came, we were a team ready to go!

Our daughter, Ramiyah, was born on Thanksgiving Day in 2009 in a NOVA birth center naturally and beautifully after we completed the Bradley Method childbirth class. My husband, Marcus, was an amazing partner and birth assistant during my labor. It is such a beautiful memory and a learning experience for us both. I was so thankful for our experience and the education we received that I immediately began to look into teaching a Bradley Method. Now I am doing what I love!

The Bradley Method is focused on empowering both mom and dad for a natural, safe, and memorable birth. Dr. Bradley liked to compare childbirth to swimming. If someone told you that they would throw you in a 10ft pool in nine months but you did not know how to swim, that would be a scary experience. It could result in fear, panic, or even drowning. On the other hand, if you took the time to learn how to swim before the nine months ended, the experience would be very different.

A Bradley Method class is a thorough 12 week course covering everything from nutrition, prenatal exercise, stages of labor, relaxation techniques, labor coaching, postpartum care, newborn care, and breastfeeding. Our goal is to help both mom and dad be physically, mentally, and emotionally prepared for labor and birth.

As a Bradley Instructor and Labor Coach, I am personally invested in seeing healthy moms, babies, and families. It delights my heart to hear the stories that come after each one of my classes. It is an honor to help each couple have a happy birthday!

I am currently offering classes in Manassas on Saturday mornings. My next full 12 week series begins Saturday March 17^th. I also offer private classes, refresher courses, and “crash courses” for those who can not commit to the full 12 weeks.

To learn more about the Bradley Method, my classes, or to register for a class, please go to one of my websites: www.birthtoblessing.com and www.bradleybirth.com/cathyharris

I look forward to being a part of your birth!

Cathy Harris

Certified Childbirth Educator and Labor Coach

The American Academy of Husband-Coached Childbirth

www.birthtoblessing@gmail.com

PwcMoms does not endorse or recommend any particular birth method or philosophy. Those decisions should be made with your spouse/partner and your medical team. This post is for informational purposes.

0 Comments | Share:

Classy Kids Consignment Giveaway

Permalink to Classy%20Kids%20Consignment%20Giveaway

Published: 02/25/2012

Everybody wants a deal, and I've got one for you!

Classy Kids Consignment offers moms a way to clear out their closets of out-grown or un-used items AND a great way to score deals on items they'll need instead!! They offer multiple sales each year in Fairfax, Manassas, and Woodbridge.

The Manassas sale is coming up next from February 29th to March 4th.
The Woobridge sale will follow on March 28th to April 1st.

But, let's be honest. You know there's some adorable little Easter outfit you NEED to have that someone's going to snag up at the Pre-Sale that's closed to the public. That's okay, because you scored pre-sale passes!!

Oh, you didn't?

No big deal- Classy Kids is offering FOUR of our PwcMoms readers pre-sale passes. Come and shop the Manassas sale early on February 28th and make sure you don't miss a thing!

Want to win? This is a FLASH giveaway, so it ends tomorrow, Sunday February 26th at 8pm. You have 3 ways to enter, and may enter up to three times (one time for each method).

1- Go like Classy Kids Consignment on Facebook, and leave us a comment here on the blog that you did. Facebook rules prohibit "liking" as a condition for winning, so your comment here is your entry. Please don't forget!! (Do let CKC know who sent you, though!)

2- Leave a comment on the PwcMoms Facebook wall on the post listing this giveaway that you want to shop early!

3- Tweet us @PwcMoms that you want to shop early at CKC!

Good luck shoppers!!

19 Comments | Share:

Giveaway/Review: Mamas Link

Published: 02/21/2012

This week's giveaway comes from Mamas Link! Since I don't have an infant, Mamas Link provided their own explanation of their program. If you've ever participated, we'd love to include your review/thoughts! Shoot us an email, and let us know what you thought/think!

Mamas Link

A Social and Educational Community of Moms and Moms-to-be!

I love being a mom. When I became a mom for the first time in April 2009, I was lucky to make a network of friends all going through similar experiences. It was amazing to have a support network to share the joys and fears of motherhood with. Many of my friends who experienced motherhood without that type of support network felt lonely and isolated and struggled with their identity as they transitioned into parenthood. I came to realize how imperative it was to have a strong community of friends, it can be lifesaving. After my maternity leave ended, I left my teaching job in MCPS and found a perfect way to marry my interest of education, my love for parenthood and my desire to connect with others. I created Mamas Link, a program that connects moms and moms-to-be and gives them unique learning opportunities and fun ways to bond with other moms and their babies.

Mamas Link features the popular mommy and me class called “The Six Week Hook Up”, formerly called Onesies DC; Mamas-to-be events; special events and seminars; a nanny posting; blog; and additional mommy resources. Classes are held in NoVa, MD and DC.

The popular “Six Week Hook-up” mommy and me class is a program featuring weekly activities (a six week session) including talks by local experts, lunches, a chance to create keepsakes, and what’s more, an opportunity to connect with other moms of infants. Activities and workshops in the lineup may include mother-baby fitness, music, yoga, infant massage, photography services, lactation consulting, CPR instruction, nutrition counseling and much more.

Mamas Link special event topics run the gamut from breastfeeding and finding a nanny to introducing baby food. Some upcoming events include a seminar about healthy sleep, baby food 101, expert training in breastfeeding and newborn care and CPR training. Events are held at various venues, may include up to 100 attendees, include delicious food and gifts galore. Attendees leave with swag bags and raffle prizes from local and national sponsors. Mamas Link helps women learn the latest in parenting, introduces them to the best and hottest products and gives them an opportunity to connect with other women to form lasting friendships.

For more information about the site, classes or to learn about hosting an event or becoming a Mamas Link sponsor, visit www.mamaslink.com. Become a Facebook Fan to be the first to know about events, coupons, contests, view recent photos of events and more: www.facebook.com/mamaslink.

THE GIVEAWAY:
Looking to connect with other moms and learn about different resources for you and your baby in Northern Virgina? Enter to win half off the popular Mamas Link "Six Week Hook Up" class which includes six weeks of mommy and me classes and meetings with local experts. Learn, have fun and create friendships to last a lifetime! (for current schedule, go to: http://mamaslink.com/schedule.php?location=DCMetro#page=page-1c).

Email PwcMoms to enter!! Also- leave a comment if you'd be interested in a Six Week Hookup for PWC!

Disclosure: This post was provided from Mamas Link. PwcMoms has not participated in a Mamas Link series. In return for this post, Mamas Link is providing a giveaway item for a PwcMoms reader.

1 Comments | Share:

Happy Birthday Gymboree Woodbridge!!

Permalink to Happy%20Birthday%20Gymboree%20Woodbridge%21%21

Published: 01/20/2012

Seriously, is there anything better than wearing your kids OUT? Like, "s/he is actually going to take a NAP praise (insert deity of your choice here)!"

Okay, yes, there is. Because the Gymboree people, they're sneaky in a good way. Not only are they going to make sure your child needs a nap, they're going to make sure they're learning something, too. Ha! It's like Elmo, but better, because you don't have to have that "TV Guilt Complex", and they're tired at the end!

(This is Meshell, the owner of Gymboree Woodbridge. Have you ever seen someone who more obviously loves their job? She's so joyful and excited and the kids eat it up!!)

You might miss it if you're not thinking about it, but seriously- there's a lot of learning going on!! Songs tell children they're going "in" or "out", "up" or "down". They work on balance, agility, coordination, and teamwork. There's peer interaction and parent/child interaction. And, the world famous Gymboree bubbles. (These things are amazing. Go buy some.)

I am completely confident asserting that every child that came yesterday to our PWCMoms playtime had a fantastic time. Even the shy ones.

(BTW- Great to meet you guys!! I love having actual people to go with the names I see on the wall all the time!! Your kids are all adorable, too!! I was so impressed we didn't have even one temper tantrum! That's a small miracle in a group the size of ours!)

So here's the deal. You guys ask me all the time about indoor ideas for winter, and I really can't give you a better suggestion than Gymboree. It's warm and inviting, it's engaging and educational, and they've got classes in everything from play to music to art to sports to school skills (although you'd better get on the waiting list if you want into that one!). Your membership also gets you into open play times, which is a fantastic alternative to the park when it's cold outside.

It's safe (everything's matted and plush), it's clean (Mrs. Meshe was very sure we all sanitized our hands before going in, and clean socks on grown ups are required), and it's a great investment in your child's development and in your sanity, because hey, at least your getting out of the house once a week this winter!!

If you've got children in multiple age groups, be sure to ask about the Family Class, which allows you to bring everyone to one time and have a great time.

I want to wish a very happy birthday to Gymboree Woodbridge, which is obviously doing it right. It's a fun, safe place to take your little ones and have a fantastic time together. Great job, Gymboree!!

Disclosure: Gymboree Woodbridge provided PWCMoms with giveaway items for readers, in addition to offering a free class for myself, my child, and several readers. All opinions expressed, however, are my own.

0 Comments | Share:

Mission: Sleep

Published: 01/13/2012

12841 Braemar Village Plaza ∙ Suite 224 Bristow, VA 20136

ph: 703.201.2190 ∙ fax: 703.991.7116

www.missionsleep.org

Remember how nerve-racking it was bringing baby home from the hospital the first time? Worrying if you produced enough milk, worrying if supplementing was okay, wondering about breathing patterns and deciding if you should wake her to feed. Is he eating enough? Is she crying too much? Am I sleeping enough? Is (insert anything baby related here) normal?!

Now imagine going through that process without your partner.

Mission Sleep is a new non-profit organization that strives to provide free, overnight newborn care to military families where Dad is deployed or wounded when Mom has their baby. Mission Sleep will provide a Registered Nurse, Licensed Practical Nurse or Post-Partum Medical Technician to come into the home of a new mom and provide overnight care and education to that mother. This allows mother to transition from hospital to home and provide her relief in the early months home with baby.

Mission Sleep is the non-profit arm of Let Mommy Sleep, the only baby nurse agency serving Northern VA, DC and Baltimore. In partnership with Walter Reed Medical Center, Mission Sleep supports new military mothers by providing overnight care by postpartum and mother/baby nurses.

To learn more about Mission Sleep, or to donate to this most worthy cause, please visit us at: www.missionsleep.org. When moms get together, we make miracles happen, and we would love to make a miracle for our Military Moms.

Let Mommy Sleep's facebook wall will have a post asking for the best motherly advice you ever received.

They will give away a $30 gift certificate to US Nails (by Safeway) to the mom who leaves the best new mom

advice.

Don't forget to refer your favorite military mama to MissionSleep, too!

1 Comments | Share:

Activities for Little Guys/Gals

Permalink to Activities%20for%20Little%20Guys%2FGals

Published: 01/11/2012

Sometimes one of you asks a question on the wall that warrants you an entire blog post.

My goodness some of you are needy. ;)

Just kidding. I wouldn't have anything to claim I'm doing if I didn't have questions. Then I'd have to admit I really AM watching the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills and not "doing laundry and blogging".

I would never live that down, y'all.

Okay, so, user question was something along the lines of "I'm looking for sports activities for my 3 year old"

You wanna nab an early sports scholarship for junior? Let's do this.

Gymboree (Happy Birthday to our Gymboree Woodbridge Friends!!) offers sports for ages 3-5, art for ages 18 months-5 years, music 6 months to 5 years, and play and learn from birth to 5 years. (Bonus- they've got scheduled indoor play times you can take advantage of!) Classes vary by location.

Haymarket Ice Plex offers Skating lessons for children as young as age 3. Hockey classes can be started after passing the first two levels of skating lessons so a child has a firm grasp of the fundamentals.

SoccerTots/Little Sluggers offers classes starting at age 18 months for soccer (which involve parents) through age 10. Locations are all over the NOVA area, including Haymarket. Baseball starts at age 2 and goes through age 5.

The Little Gym (in Gainesville) offers classes ranging from Parent/Child (4 months-3 years), Sports Skills (starting at age 3 through age 6, includes hockey, baseball, soccer, and more), gymnastics from ages 3-12, dance from ages 3-12, and karate from ages 4-12.

The Freedom Center in Manassas has "Little Hoops" basketball starting at age 2.5 and 3.5 year olds can try "Little Pucks" hockey. Pee Wee Football classes start at 3.5, as does T-ball. Parent/Child sport classes start at age 2, and Soccer and Sports Mix start at 3.5, with Tae Kwon Do starting at age 4.

Prince William County Park Authority offers swimming and gymnastics for toddlers, including "Parent/Child" classes that start at 6 months for swimming. Ballet begins at age 3 and gymnastics at 18 months. The Dale City Rec Center offers two courses of "Tiny Titans Tri-Athletes" classes for ages 2-5, and has both soccer and t-ball for ages 4 and up. Basketball through the Park Authority begins at 4, All Star Sports (a mix) is ages 3 and up, and Little Pros is 4 and up. For these courses, check out Our Leisure Magazine.

Gymnastics- most gyms offer classes for toddlers and up. Rates vary GREATLY based on the credentials of the instructor, and all I can say is that from a personal perspective, unless you 2 year old hops on the uneven bars and throws out a triple flip with a stuck dismount the first time they touch it, you do not need to be paying over $80 a month for gymnastics. If the first place you call gives you sticker shock, try again.

Prince William Ice Center starts their skaters at age 4.

Most Martial Arts studios that I've looked into seem to have a class for children as young as 3. I'm linking to this one but just because it's the one I found that actually listed their class ages. Call and check the studio nearest you. As with gymnastics, let me point out that if you're signing up a 2 or 3 year old, please do not let some push owner pressure you into a 1 year contract. Your kid is too young to know if they'll like mashed potatoes from one day to the next, a year is insane. Just throwing it out there.

Swim Kids starts em young, too, with classes for parents and children beginning at age 6 months.

Hope this helps you get started!! Have a favorite sports location for your child? Share it in the comments!

3 Comments | Share:

Let's Talk Gymboree Woodbridge

Permalink to Let%27s%20Talk%20Gymboree%20Woodbridge

Published: 06/06/2011

Our first introduction to Gymboree was in Massachusetts when our first baby was, well, still a baby. A very kind Auntie had given us a 2 month class and we really loved it! Getting out of our ~~freaking small~~ intimate apartment was difficult in the ~~ridiculous cold~~ New England winter. Especially for someone that still used "y'all" even if it was in conjunction with "wicked cool".

Yeah, I know, he's the cutest brunette little boy you've ever seen. You don't have to tell me, I already know. :)

When we moved to Woodbridge, my middle baby tried Gymboree art and it wasn't for him because OH MY GOSH I MIGHT GET DIRTY!!! But he really loved the music classes and thoroughly enjoyed shaking his moneymaker during the Spanish Songs section we did. I was a huge fan of the art classes and loved making adorable projects since he wouldn't touch them. I have to say I kicked serious butt at those 18-24 month old art projects. Classes vary in price and you can try one for FREE. I know that June is a tough time when you're waiting for older siblings to finish school, so I've actually listed all the Gymboree Woodbridge Classes on our June Calendar so that you can pick a free preview class for your little one!

We've also really loved Gymboree Woodbridge Birthday Parties. We did a joint one for our daughter's 2nd birthday with a little friend of hers and everyone had a great time.

All the kids got to run around and get out their energy and I didn't have to clean my house. I am all about not having to clean my house.

Our Gymboree Party Liason was fantastic and did a great job of engaging the kids. I think some of the older siblings might have been a little over a few of the games, but they were good sports and secretly (or not so secretly) still loved the bubbles and the parachute. Gymboree Parties are $250 plus a 15% tip for your party host/hostess. That includes 15 kids and all the adults you care to invite to act as baby paparazzi, 90 minutes of hosted party time, the custom theme of your choice, paper products, goody bags, and invitations (which they'll even fill out for you). You can also add a live appearance from Gymbo the Clown, a craft, extra kids, extra time, and pizza. You are able to order pizza through Gymboree Woodbridge, or you can bring any commercially prepared food and beverage you'd like. You can bring a homemade or commercial cake. Parties can be held at 1:30, 3:30, or 5:30pm Saturday or Sunday. To schedule a party, contact Gymboree Play & Music Woodbridge at 703-590-3320 or email the owner, Meshell.

Gymboree Woodbridge also offers Bubble Camp, which is brilliant. It's one day (always a Friday) for young children that can be hard to find camp for (ages 3-5 and potty independent). They're $35 per week and include great themes, all of which are up on our calendar! The best part is the $35 includes unlimited attendance at Open Gym time, which is a great way to burn energy, the Tuesday and Thursday of your camp week! Open Gym is from 1pm-7:30pm.

This giveaway is closed, but you can still join Gymboree for fun!!

The very fabulous people at Gymboree Play and Music Woodbridge are offering some great promotions for our PWC Moms readers!! This June, new families can join for their first month of class for $49 and NO MEMBERSHIP FEE!! They're also offering one lucky PWC Mom a totally free Birthday Party! Plus, if you don't win- book your party by June 15th and mention PWC Moms and they'll give you a $50 discount. That way we're all winning!

13 Comments | Share:

Itsy Bitsy Zen

Published: 04/19/2011

~~You guys didn't think I'd leave you hanging without free stuff for Spring Break, did you??~~

~~Nah, I've got you covered.~~

First up, a local, mom-owned business called Itsy Bitsy Zen. PWC Mom Thuy Nguyen creates adorable custom-made diaper clutches, pacifier holders, and more. I love her fabric choices, and it's always great when you don't have the same exact Winnie the Pooh bag that everyone else does.

Thuy was inspired by the birth of her son to find a creative outlet. She shares on her etsy: "After my baby boy Taylan was born, I felt a new dimension of love. This little person balanced my inner world in so many positive ways. He inspired me to start a new chapter in my life. So here I am, starting Itsy Bitsy Zen. I focused all my creative energy on handmaking something unique and beautiful for all little one's on earth. I want to express through my design a lot of peace, love and joy." I especially love the name of Thuy's Company. Being moms, so many of us need a little Zen in our lives.

Thuy's baby items range in price from $3.50 for individual beads to $35 for complete baby sets that would totally steal the show at a baby shower, as far as I'm concerned. Her custom work is beautiful and definitely reflects inner peace ;)

~~Thanks to Thuy for sponsoring our first Spring Break Giveaway! She's offering one boy and one girl pacifier holder to two PWC Moms readers who~~ ~~like her on facebook~~ ~~and leave a comment letting her know, Girl or Boy :)~~

This giveaway is closed, but you can still order anything you'd like from Thuy's etsy!

0 Comments | Share: