Discounted Tickets for Freckleface Strawberry The Musical

Freckleface Strawberry starts performances in New York City September. The play is based on the New York Times best selling book, Freckleface Strawberry by actress Julianne Moore.

The play is a sweet, hilarious look at the life of one great redheaded kid.  

Freckleface Strawberry was just like everyone else except for her bright red hair and freckles which she will do anything to get rid of.

But with the help of her loveable schoolmates including an amazingly talented ballerina, a cutie jock, a charming ditz, and a totally kooky teacher, Freckleface learns that everyone is different and that's what makes everyone special!

Performances start September 9.

For tickets as low as $35, use the code FSBOOK810

For more information, visit  http://www.frecklefacethemusical.com/

Location:

New World Stages

340 W. 50^th Street

Running time: 70 minutes

Age: All ages

Click here to purchase tickets

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FREE TRIAL YOGA CLASSES AT MOOMAH FOR KIDS!!!

Come Play Gloga with Karma Kids Yoga!!! at Moomah 

Don't miss the free trial Glow-in-the-dark yoga classes at Moomah in Tribeca!  Be sure to wear white for extra “glow-ability”!

Think Hayden Planetarium meets Mahatma Gandhi.  A full sensory experience for children as they learn how their bodies work while exploring ideas about compassion, kindness, gratefulness and love. 

Mom & Baby Yoga (6 weeks - new walkers) 

This unique class combines yoga and play to get back in shape while strengthening the bond between you and your infant.  Experience flowing asanas, challenging postures, and calming restorative time in a playful and safe environment for babies. Learn Baby Yoga exercises to strengthen growing muscles, aid in digestion, promote better sleeping patterns, and help your infant towards their next stage of development. Dads are welcome too! All levels. Class is 1 hour.

Free Trials on Thursday, September 9th, 11:30am; and Saturday, September 11th, at 8:45am.

Parent & Child (walkers - 3 yrs)

Partner with your toddler in simple animated poses, games, art, music and breathing exercises that help to strengthen coordination and build body awareness. We'll bark in downward dog, hiss in cobra pose and flutter our wings in butterfly, while we take a yoga journey that your child will never forget! This fun class provides key bonding methods between parent and child, while strengthening their growing muscles. Caregivers welcome. Class is 45 minutes.

Free Trials on Thursday, September 9th, at 10:30am; and Saturday, September 11th, at 10:00am

Kids 4 - 7 years

In this imaginative series, we combine simple yoga poses with engaging songs, puppets and stories that exercise social, sensory and motor skills while increasing flexibility.  This playful class encourages self-expression while children strengthen their bodies as they learn how to focus through breathing and relaxation techniques.  Kids sing, draw and play yoga in this energy releasing class. Class is 45 minutes.

Free Trial on Thursday, September 9th, 2:30pm

Location;

161 Hudson Street, between Hubert and Laight Streets.  

Phone Number: (212)226-0345 to reserve a space for your child.  

Visit moomah.com for more information.  Or Karmakidsyoga.com.

Full Free Trial schedule at Moomah is as follows:

Thursday, September 9th

Parent & Child at 10:30 – 11:15

Mom & Baby at 11:45 – 12:45

Kids Yoga at 2:30 – 3:15 (4 – 7 years)

Saturday, September 11th

Mom & Baby at 8:45

Parent & Child at 10:00

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Pre-Sale for Past Guests to commemorate Carnival Magic launch in 2011

Carnival Cruise Lines’ newest ship, the 3,690-passenger Carnival Magic, will debut with a schedule of seven-, nine- and 12-day Mediterranean cruises operating round-trip from Barcelona from May to October 2011.

To commemorate the line’s return to Europe, for the first time ever, Carnival is offering an exclusive pre-sale for past guests from January 19 to January 25, including complimentary two-category upgrades, along with special pricing with rates starting at just $829 per person, based on double occupancy.

For consumers new to Carnival, the line’s full range of cruise fares, including highly attractive Early Saver rates will open on Tuesday, January 26.

The 130,000-ton Carnival Magic will offer a host of features popularized on its sister ship Carnival Dream, including a WaterWorks aqua park, a stunning café/live entertainment venue called Ocean Plaza; Serenity adults-only retreat; spacious, modern facilities for children and teens; and a wide range of stateroom categories.

Seven-day cruises will feature Monte Carlo, Monaco; and Livorno, Rome (Civitavecchia), Naples and Messina, Italy. Departure dates include July 3, 10 and 17, 2011.

Nine-day cruises will call at Marseilles, France – the line’s first call at this charming coastal town – followed by Monte Carlo (excluding the August 26 departure); Livorno, Rome (Civitavecchia), Naples, and Messina; and Palma de Mallorca, Spain. Voyages will operate June 3 and 24, August 5 and 26, September 16, and October 7, 2011. The special nine-day cruise departing May 1 will visit Dubrovnik, Croatia; Messina, Naples, Rome (Civitavecchia), Livorno; and Monte Carlo.

The 12-day Grand Mediterranean voyages will feature Monte Carlo or Marseilles; Livorno, Rome (Civitavecchia), and Naples; Dubrovnik (excluding the May 22 departure which will visit Palma de Mallorca); Venice (overnight call) and Messina. These voyages will depart May 10 and 22, June 12, July 24, August 14, September 4 and 25, and October 16, 2011.

On the Carnival Magic’s Mediterranean cruises, guests can sample the region’s renowned cuisine, experience unique sightseeing opportunities, view stunning architecture and visit centuries-old historical landmarks and museums.

All three itineraries will operate round-trip from Barcelona, a bustling, cosmopolitan city whose modern cruise terminal is considered one of the finest in Europe.

Carnival Magic will also build upon the line’s distinction as the family cruise leader, with dedicated facilities and programming for children in three age groups – Camp Carnival (2-11), Circle “C” (12-14) and Club O2 (15-17) – along with a miniature golf course and an expansive WaterWorks aqua park with multiple water slides and other features.

For additional information on all the amenities, services and activities on Carnival Magic, visit carnivalmagic.com

Reservations: 1-800-CARNIVAL or visit carnival.com.
Twitter: www.twitter.com/carnivalcruise
Facebook Fan Page: www.facebook.com/carnival
Flickr: www.flickr.com/photos/carnivalcruiselines/

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Head to Saks Fifth Avenue TODAY ONLY for Full Size Fredric Fekkai Styling Products

Are you going to be near Saks Fifth Avenue today? Then don't miss out in picking up full size styling products from Frederic Fekkai.

Click here to register and print a form to bring with you to the store.

Arrive early, quantities are limited.

Thanks www.hip2save.com for the tip.

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Affordable Travel with Carnival Cruise

Last week, I was invited to tour Carnival Cruise Ship Glory. I have never been on a cruise even though I have been on a few boats and even a couple of yachts. I am just not a fan.  Which means, I have avoided investigating a cruise ship vacation until now.

Before we went on the tour, we were treated to a wonderful meal of penne siciliana, Maine lobster tail, petite filet mignon and for dessert, a warm chocolate melting cake. If this is any indication of the food served on board, I can see why people gain 10 pounds on a cruise.

Carnival Glory can take up to 3,700 guests, has approximately 1100 crew members and weighs 110,00 tons.  Fun Facts about the Carnival Glory; all the officers are Italian and the ship's godmother is Dr. Sally Ride, the first American woman in space.

The Carnival Cruise tag line is "Fun for All. All for Fun" which means there are activities for every age group which makes it the ideal vacation for the entire family.

Wondering what to do with the kids. Carnival Cruises is visited by approximately 650,000 kids annually, which means they know kids. Carnival Glory offers organized programs for three different age groups.

• Camp Carnival for 2 to 11 year olds
• Circle "C" for 12 to 14 year olds
• Club O2 for 15 - 17 year olds. 

All activities are supervised within an expansive and modern, dedicated facility for each age group. Parents can come and drop/pick up their kids off any time of the day.  This is a wonderful option as it allows the parents much needed time to themselves but still be able to have fun with their kids.

Of course, there are numerous activities to keep your kids occupied. There are four swimming pools, a wading pool for the little ones and an aft pool offering a 214-foot long water slide.

For adults, there are numerous activities to keep you occupied day and night including a casino, a seaside theater, an adults-only serenity deck, a piano bar, numerous bars and a nightclub. There is also a 14,500 square foot "Spa Carnival" facility. Golfers wanting to work on their game can receive personalized instruction on board and play a number of challenging courses at various ports of call.

Babysitting is available at night so that parents can see a show, have a romantic evening alone or dinner with family or friends. And did I mention, there is a duty-free store on board.

And don't worry, there is an internet cafe, wi-fi access and cell-phone service so you can stay connected if you so wish.

The pricing mentioned during the presentation was quite affordable in my estimation. For a family of four, the average per person cost was $270 a day for the basic cabin, although costs are higher in peak season.

As we were touring the ship, I could see numerous families, friends and kids boarding the ship. They seem to enjoying themselves in every part of the ship from the restaurants to the swimming pools to mini-golf course to the bars. As it takes hours to get on board, I would recommend arriving at the earliest time possible so you can enjoy begin relaxing as soon as possible.

Carnival Glory leaves from Manhattan (50th and west side highway) from April through October. Currently,  there are four, five and seven day Canada and New England cruises from New York.

As a single mom, there are two things I look for in a vacation, affordability and mommy time. Carnival Cruise offers both. After viewing the shop and all the amenities, I definitely want to experience a cruise. Now, I just have to decide where to go.

For more pictures:

Powered by Whrrl

For additional information, visit www.carnival.com or 1-800-CARNIVAL
Twitter: www.twitter.com/carnivalcruise
Facebook Fan Page:www.facebook/carnival

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Juno Baby and Fao Schwarz - my last BlogHer10 event

My last event at BlogHer10 took place at Fao Schwarz to learn about Juno Baby.  I had no idea what Juno Baby was but after learning about the series of Emmy award- winning DVDs and CDs,  I was sad that my daughter was a tad too old to be able to experience the products.

During the event, I met with founder, mom and composer, Dr. Belinda Takahashi whose original music is performed by live orchestral musicians (yes, live orchestral music) and paired with a cast of endearing puppet characters. Juno Baby aims to inspire and nurture the minds of children through beautiful music. The cast of characters include Juno, her brother Rai Rai, Bunny, Buzz, Indie and Murphy. The characters were created and performed by the talented hands behind some of your favorite Muppet and Sesame Street characters.

My daughter and I watched Juno's Rhythm Adventure and while it might have been a little too young for her, she really enjoyed it. What I liked best about the DVD is that you can truly hear the orchestra. During the scenes where the characters were not on screen, the music indeed stands out. In those scenes, my daughter and I really listened, and heard every instrument being played. We truly enjoyed the music. My daughter remarked, "I like the music." At one point, she was acting like a conductor, waving her hands in unison to the music.  It is amazing when children listen to great music how much they can absorb.

If you are in the market for truly inspirational products for your child, check out Juno Baby and her friends. There are a wide range of DVDs and CDs for your listening and viewing pleasure.

DVDs and CDS are also available on itunes.com so you can take it along with you.

Disclosure: NYC Single Mom Reviews received dvd and cds for review purposes only and was not paid for this post.

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Mamas & Papas Great Britain's No. 1 Baby Brand Arrives at Babies R Us

Last week, I had the opportunity to view the US debut of Great Britain's No. 1 baby brand Mamas & Papas and meet with a representative from the company who showed us the entire line of products.

Haven't heard of Mamas & Papas, me either, so I was pleasantly surprised with their line. The brand is famous for it's design, style and celebrity following like Gwen Stefani and Jessica Alba. The line includes strollers, bouncers, high chairs and nursery essentials.

As you know, I have written about my love of MacLaren and given what I saw I would have definitely been interested in the Mamas & Papas line of products. The products are well contructed, have a modern, cool design which I like.

Here are just a couple of the products that are available that caught my eye.

Urbo stroller is designed for an urban lifestyle. This stroller is obviously designed with city parents in mind. What I liked about this stroller was that it was suitable from birth to 50lbs and only weighs 20lbs.  The infant car seat is compatible for Graco and Maxi-Cosi brands. Admittedly, the $500 price tag sounds somewhat high but when compared to the bugaboo which is the hot stroller, it is waayy less. 

Trek Umbrella Stroller - The stroller has a compact fold, five point harness, multi-position backrest and comes in a multitude of colors. 

In addition, to Mamas & Papas many stroller options, they also carry a range of  bouncers, high chairs and nursery essentials. 

Apollo bouncer has a clean modern and fun look. It comes with gentle vibration feature to soothe your baby. It has four lullabies to choose from and has a musical function with a music book insert that allows you to choose your baby's entertainment. Best of all,  the seat cover is removable and washable. 

And if you are like me, especially when it comes to strollers and high chairs, you need to do the touch and feel test.

Everyone has different needs and preferences but I would definitely include Mamas & Papas in your list of products to review as you shop for your baby. 

Mamas & Papas is now available at Babies R Us.

Click here to read more about the Mamas & Papas line of products. To view the line of products sold in the US, visit babies r us.

Disclosure: NYC Single Mom was not paid for this post and received a few stuffed animals for attending the event. 

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Want an Heirloom Gift - Milson Road's The Daily Portrait Giveaway CLOSED

Congrats to Lauren B. 


The Daily Portrait announces a celebration or milestone within a "news page" of the day's headline - a time capsule of memories in an elegant, beautifully produced, 18x20 inch print with custom wood frame. It captures the emotion of a special event in a tangible, contemporary heirloom for the lucky recipient. 

Whether you're giving it to a close friend to celebrate the birth of her child, or you're giving it with a group of friends to a bride on her wedding day, The Daily Portrait is the ultimate in thoughtful gift-giving.

I chose to celebrate the birth of my daughter. Ordering the Daily Portrait was super simple, you only need some key pieces of information like birth time, height, weight, hospital name and provide a photo, pick a mat and frame and you're done. It comes in a couple of weeks and looks amazing.  I had a great time reading all the interesting news from her birth date. 

After I ordered the Daily Portrait, I had some friends over to share the Daily Portrait. To say that they were impressed was an understatement. Once they saw my portrait commemorating my daughter's birth they were eager to order them for upcoming anniversary's for siblings and their parents. 

So if you are looking for something different that is unique and is really a one of kind gift, you can buy the Daily Portrait for $165 and free shipping. Click here to get started. 

Or you can win it. 

Disclosure: NYC Single Mom Reviews received The Daily Portrait for review purposes only and was not compensated for this post. 

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Beaches Negril, Jamaica- The Perfect Vacation

There was a time when my idea of a perfect vacation was to see and learn as much as possible, the typical visit 10 cities in 8 days mentality, now it's all about relaxation and spending time with my daughter.

One of my single mom friends invited us to go to Beaches in Negril, Jamaica. For years, I had seen the Beaches commercial but was somewhat hesitant given that Beaches is an all-inclusive resort.  But I thought why not?  I needed the rest and I liked the idea of not having to worry about a lot of details. So off we went and I am glad we did.


What I liked about Beaches, Negril:

• The resort. From the moment we arrived, I felt at ease and relaxed. The grounds were beautfully manicured and of course, the palm trees helped me feel so far away from the problems of the world or should I say, my world. Just wandering about the grounds was exhilarating and peaceful. 

• The Beach -What can I say? I love walking on the white sand beach. My friend and I just camped out on the beach chairs, sat, talked, read our books/magazines and just plain relaxed. For me, I was happy to just stare out at the clear blue water and occasionally wandering into the water which was amazing. There is something about just staring at out at the water. 

• Supervised Kids Camp - As a single mom, my one request is to just get some "me" time. The supervised kids camp allows me to just sit on the beach and stare at the water without having to worry that my daughter is not having a great time. The Kids camp has plenty of activities all day to keep the kids occupied.  All the caretakers were sweet and I felt that my daughter was safe and had a great time.  I also liked that you could drop the kids off later in the day as I liked hanging out at the beach with my daughter and then have the afternoon free to veg. 

• Pirates Island Water Park - What is there to say except two words "Lazy River." My daughter loved it and I must admit as a non-swimmer, I loved it, too. What better way to spend the afternoon than wandering down a river on your back. Everyone has to wear a floatation device, so it's safe for all. 

• Red Lane Spa - The first afternoon my friend and I dropped the kids off at camp and spent the afternoon having a massage and mani/pedi. The spa is beautifully designed and felt like it was in another world. 

• All- Inclusive feature - Normally, I am not a big fan of this feature but when you have kids, the biggest expense of a vacation is the food and if you have a picky eater, it gets to be super expensive. I liked not having to worry that we spent a small fortune on food everyday because of the numerous options for kids. Yes, having chicken fingers and fries everyday, may not be the best thing for your kids but there is tons of fruit and vegetable options. And for the adults, nothing is more refreshing after a day at the beach than having a Red Stripe waiting in your fridge. 

• Sesame Street Themed activities - Non-stop activities from all your kid's favorite characters that is sure to thrill. My daughter was excited to see someone new everyday and could not wait to tell me who she saw that day. 

• Sunday Sesame Street Character breakfast - my daughter aged out of Sesame Street but she was still happy to go to the breakfast. Book it online before you arrive. 

• The Staff was sooo nice, courteous and aims to please. My friend was not happy with her sofa so they changed it out without an argument. 

• Evening events - There was entertainment every evening that kept both the kids and us entertained. 

What I did not like about Beaches - 

• The non-suite type rooms - I originally booked a Premium room and while the room was beautiful, roomy and the bed was perfectly fine, I did not like the layout of the room. The chair was not situated in front of the television. I know I am on vacation but I like to sit, relax, read and watch television after my daughter goes to sleep. The way the room is laid out, the only way to watch the television is to sit on the bed.  I actually upgraded after we arrived to a honeymoon suite, weird but it had a pull-out sofa bed and wing chair and was worth it plus you get access to concierge service. 
• Small coffee cups - I liked being able to enjoy coffee on the beach in the morning but the coffee cups were too small. Next time, I am going to bring a commuter coffee mug and filler up. 
• Wi-fi was not free - then again, is it free anywhere? 

Additional amenities: 

• Fitness Center
• Water Sports - XBox Game room for tweens/teenagers
• Liquid Nightclub for parents who still like to party down
• Land games such as billiards, croquet and table tennis
• Tours- from swimming with the dolphins to zipline canopy to kayaking and much more

The resort is always running promotions so definitely check it out at http://www.beaches.com/

NYC Single Mom was not paid for this post. 

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10% off Kanken Backpacks Aug 19 One Day ONLY at Fjallraven

Looking for a cool backpack for back to school

Fajallraven is having a one day only 10% of Kanken backpacks, Thursday, August 19 only.

There will be giveaways and swedish treats.

Date: August 19 only from 1-8 pm
Soho location of Fjallraven:
262 Mott Street (btw Prince and Houston)

(212) 226 - 7846

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Annabel Karmel's Make it Easy Line of Baby Food Preparation Products

Making baby food at home is easier than you think – and because you can freeze it in single servings, you only need to make food once or twice a week! In this economic climate you need a way to SAVE MONEY and TIME while still giving your baby WHAT THEY NEED. 

Annabel Karmel, the author of two of my favorite kid's cookbook, First Meals (New Expanded Edition) and Mom and Me Cookbook, has designed a line of baby food preparation equipment called MAKE IT EASY. The line is super affordable with products ranging in price from $5.99 to $15.99.  

This new line includes a masher and bowl, food mill and stackable food pots to enable parents to freeze fruit, puree vegetables and strain food, as well as store and take for eating on the go. The line is being sold at Babies ‘R’ Us nationwide

I wish this was around when my daughter was an infant, I could have saved a ton on baby food. Single serve freezing was so not an option

Make it Easy Range is available at Babies "R" Us nationwide.  Give it a try. 

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Introducing Maclaren Beginning Baby Products Line

Recently, I was asked to review the premium line of organic baby products by Maclaren. Yes, Maclaren, the stroller maker. I was psyched since I had a MacLaren stroller and was extremely pleased with quality and construction.

 MacLaren has created Beginning Line, an organic-based and holistic personal care product line for both mommy and child.

While the line is made to be used pre-pregnancy, I don't see why you could not use them long past your due date. Products for the mother include bath milk, belly balm, shower gel, balancing facial mist and alleviating leg lotion and for the little munchkin, the product line includes massage oil, nappy balm, baby powder, delicate soap. To top it off, the line includes products for the nursery that include candles and a comforting room mist.

Although, this line may not be targeted to me, I loved many of the products in the line.

The orange scent  of the Balancing Facial Mist  provided a refreshing lift throughout the day. I chose to use the Absorbing Baby Powder, a talc-free powder on super hot days to keep from chafing and love the scent.  That said, your newborn will love it. My daughter and I loved the purifying bath and shower elix which was clean smelling and was not drying to our skin. Lighting the Celebration candles provided a soothing environment on those stressful days. Finally, tthe comforting room mist added a light scent of happiness to my apartment, it had a clean scent that much better smelling than other room freshners.

Click here to check out the entire line of beginning products.

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NYC Single Mom Goes to Sweet in The City Party @BlogHer10

BlogHer10 was a blur but one party I was happy to have been invited to is the Sweet in the City Party sponsored by theBigToyBook.com and hosted by Corine, fun mom extraordinaire @ http://www.complicatedmama.com

Thanks for all the fun products. I can't wait to try them out.

Bubble Talk - This game looks like so much fun. I can't wait to play the game.


Perplexus Maze Game by PlaSmart, Inc. - This one may be drive me to drink, but looks a fun time for all ages.


And of course, Moxie Teenz Doll- Arizona, Moxie Teenz Doll- Melrose, Moxie Teenz Doll Assortment. As you can see my daughter loved her Arizona doll (although she was a tad perplexed as to why she was named after a state) even wanting to save the poster that came with the doll.   She told me that she really liked the doll because she was "cool" looking. "I love her purse and earrings and I love brushing her hair."

Just one little issue. One of the selling points of the doll is the interchangeable wig unfortunately, the wig did not  fit perfectly on Arizona's head. That little issue aside, my daughter did not seem to notice or care. Arizona is now my daughter's new favorite doll and replaced all the other dolls.


Jeep Car Seat Starter Kit - We obviously have aged out but I have a friend who is getting ready to have a baby so this is perfect for her.

See you next year!!!

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Introducing Korres Rasperry Liquid Lipstick

Korres Natural Products is pleased to announce the launch of their newest lip product: Raspberry Liquid Lipstick.

Study up on your lip math: Long-lasting Lipstick Color + Wet Lip Gloss Shine + Natural Formula = KORRES RASPBERRY LIQUID LIPSTICK

 The water-based formula represents the best of both worlds, combining the pros of a lipstick and a gloss in one antioxidant-rich natural lipstick. Formulated with naturally moisturizing and nourishing ingredients, the lipstick delivers vivid, flattering, lost-lasting color and shine with a lightweight feel.

 The formula balances durable color and sheen with a cushiony, comfortable texture. Its key natural ingredients – Raspberry and Pomegranate extracts – provide effective antioxidant protection.

 SHADES:  SOFT PINK / NUDE BEIGE / NATURAL / FUCHSIA / RED / BERRY

PRICE: $22.00

AVAILABILITY: Sephora, Sephora.com and KorresUSA.com

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UP TO 30% off Scholastic Store.com

The Scholastic Store.com is having a back to school sale with up to 30 off plus a free dictionary with orders over $50, use code SSBTS. This offer ends 8/29/10

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Join NYC Single Mom, Curious George and Kids Club 13 at South Street Seaport, August 14

Who doesn't love that little mischievous little monkey, Curious George? I know I do. Curious George is one my favorite childhood characters and of course, my daughter loves him, too.

Join NYC Single Mom, a Club Kids 13 Ambassador for “A Boatload of Fun with Curious George” at the South Street Seaport Museum and Peking Ship, tommorrow, August 14.

Kids Club Thirteen members receive free admission:

Members-only exclusive activities include:

Noon – Open to Kids Club Members (must present membership card)

Noon – 1 p.m. - Exclusive character Meet & Greet with Curious George

Noon – 4:30 p.m. – Ongoing VIP Screening of Curious George, model boat making and other activities

1:30 p.m. & 3:00p.m. – Explore Challenge

Make a day of it, since there is so much to do at the Seaport for ClubKids 13 members and non-members alike:

• Take a sail on board the schooner Pioneer, celebrating her 125th birthday this year! Two-hour harbor sails are by reservation only. For more information please email reservations@seany.org or call 212-748-8786.
• 12:30 p.m. & 2:30 p.m. – Sing Along with Jim Keyes Charmingly loose and delightfully funny, Jim will get you singing, dancing and laughing in the aisles!
• 3:30 p.m. – Juggling, etc… with Will Shaw A unique blend of physical comedy, verbal wit, and dazzling skills is irresistible to audiences of all ages.
• Recently opened Imagination Playground near the museum.

Click here for more information on the event and other ClubKids 13 member activities and benefits.

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Melissa and Doug Deluxe Easel Product Review

Have a budding artist. This Melissa and Doug easel was my daughter's favorite to use. This two sided easel has a dry erase and chalk board and comes with 2 plastic trays to store paint, brushes and markers.

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Imagination Playground at the South Street Seaport Review

Imagination Playground at the South Street Seaport is New York's latest playground. It opened last week to great fanfare. Designed by David Rockwell, the architect and designer of LA's Kodak theatre, Rockwell tried to bring about an European sensibility to the design of the playground. There are lots of foam blocks for the kids to play with and build tons of tall structures. See my daughter's little fort. My daughter loved playing with wheelbarrow wheeling the blocks from one of the playground to out little corner.

There is wonderfully designed water play area and big, beautiful sand box.

At face value, the playground looks great and I am sure that  the kids will have a lot of fun but again the architect and designers just don't think these things through and I wonder is it because it's more about the aesthetics which is far sexier than function and practicality.

What I did not like about the Imagination Playground:

• It's too small - we went on day that it's overcast and it was crowded. I can only imagine what it's like when it's hot out.
• The sandbox - are these people nuts? The playground is near the seaport and what is near the seaport? Rats. And where do rats like to play?  In the sand. 
• No trees - why oh,  why are there no trees?
• Not enough seating for caregivers/parents and on top of that there are no umbrellas near the benches
• Bathrooms are lacking - is there only one??? 

I am stunned it cost $7.4MM to build this playground. I am wondering how much of that cost went to pay Rockwell because it just does not look like New York City got it's money's worth.

After all that, I would recommend checking out the playground if you are visiting South Street Seaport if only to trade off sightseeing or shopping and/or letting your kids run off some energy.

Location: Burling Slip, John Street between Front and South Streets
Hours: Open daily 9am-7pm

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