Being Savvy: Activities, things to do with your preschoolers, toddlers and kids in Boston, MA

Wild Weekends

by Jill Notkin

I'm cold. And it's likely that I'll stay this way for a few more months. So I may as well make the best of it and find fun, indoor stuff to do until the sun once again shines on us and warms our selves. Check out the Coolidge Corner Theatre in Brookline for hip music by Bed Rudnick and Friends. With a combination of musical styles from country to bluegrass, everybody will love these ... Read more >

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Still No New Year's Plans?

by Jill Notkin

If you didn't find any event that tickled you in my last New Year's post , do not fear as there are plenty other activities that you and your family can participate in this year. Personally, I think my family will be heading over to Needham's New Year's celebrations , since it's close to home and many of the children's programs are taking place at my favorite family center, Creative ... Read more >

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Mickey and Minnie Hit Boston

by Jill Notkin

Yesterday I took my 2-and-a-half year old to the TD Banknorth Garden to catch Disney on Ice presents Mickey & Minnie's Magical Journey ! We had a really great time, and thankfully I learned from my past mistakes . The show was to start at 1pm, so kiddy and I started out around 12:15 in order to arrive early. I wasn't risking walking into a loud, dark arena with a young child ... Read more >

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Brownie Buttons with Candy Cane Icing

by Jill Notkin

I ate too much this past week. Really, every meal was like a celebration of some sort and as I write this, my belly aches and I am actually looking forward to an hour at the gym. But still, I can't hold out on you the yummiest treat I had ALL week (and which I plan to make for our New Year's celebration. Just one last hurrah...). Make this one with your kids - it couldn't be easier! ... Read more >

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Things to do around Boston on Christmas Day

by Jill Notkin

This has always been a challenge in our family, given that we are Jewish and celebrate Chanukah, not Christmas. So while 95% of America is celebrating on December 25 th , this day marks a long one, so I thought I???d find a few ways to spend it. If you don???t sit around the open fire roasting chestnuts either, then this one???s for you. Explore Jewish Boston by Foot . A Jewish ... Read more >

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For a complete "mall" experience, head to Natick.

by Jill Notkin

Believe it or not, the town of Natick is abuzz with activity. Ever since the "mall"became a "collection" (and the second largest shopping district in Ma. outside of Downtown Crossing) almost a year ago, shoppers are flocking to the area, not just to shop, but to take part in the dozens of events and activities going on there daily. If you still have some holiday shopping to do, the Natick ... Read more >

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The importance of fitness for preschoolers by Brianna K. Grant

by Jill Notkin

What is your reaction to the following two words? Childhood obesity My reaction to childhood obesity is: This is a real problem. What can I do to help get kids active at a young age to keep them healthy and PREVENT future health problems? I was an elementary school teacher for three years and now I'm a mother of a four year-old son and an almost-two year-old ... Read more >

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Wild Weekends

by Jill Notkin

Ok, by now most of us have braved the crowds at the mall, seen Santa dozen times, and baked enough to feed an army. Well, it's not over yet folks so suck it up and enjoy it. May as well, since this whole town is painted red! And green! This weekend - If you're anything like me, you'll at least be intrigued by the idea of visiting the Chocolate Buffet at the Langham Hotel . I ... Read more >

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Auld Lang Syne

by Jill Notkin

It's almost New Year's Eve and time to start planning! Although you may not have the opportunity (or desire) to party like it's 1999, you and your family can still ring in the New Year in a fun way. Here are some goings on in Boston on December 31 st : First Night Boston is a day-long festival to celebrate art and community in Boston. Take your kids to the FedEx Family Festival at ... Read more >

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The Gift of Giving

by Jill Notkin

Ok. So it's 9 days before Christmas and you're so over beating the rush at the mall. How about giving a gift that keeps on giving all year round? Here are a few ideas for gifts that you can't touch or feel, but will provide a lot of fun: The Children's Museum offer memberships for children 10 and under. For one year, your child will have free admission to the museum, as well as free ... Read more >

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