Fun 4 Kids in Buffalo

Dollar Day at the Botanical Gardens - 2/20/2012

2012-02-13T21:49:00.001-05:00

Once again, the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens offer their $1 admission day. This would be a great way to start out your February break!

Dollar Day is February 20, 2012. Kids 3 and under are free as well as members. The Botanical Gardens are open from 10am-5pm.

If you have never been to the Botanical Gardens, this would be a good time to check it out! From the littlest to the biggest kid in your family - they will all enjoy it. (And if they don't - at least you only spent a $1!)

February Break Activities

2012-02-13T20:38:00.000-05:00

These are just a few suggestions for February break. Obviously, there are many more activities for the kids this week but I wanted to highlight a few events. You can also check the Northtowns, Southtowns or FREE tabs for more ideas.

ONGOING DAILY ACTIVITIES between February 20-25th:

Explore and More "Around Town" theme for the week. Includes topics such as eating locally, firefighters and police, constructions and more. Get the details at the Explore and More calendar. ($)

Eastern Hills Mall Summer in February (the 18th-26th) FREE

Rolly Pollies Special Open Play Times at both locations (East Amherst and Orchard Park) Feb. 20 - Feb.24: 10:00 - 11:00 AM and 11:00 - 12:00 PM at both locations. Special Open Play is an hour of supervised free play for children ages 9 and under. Special Open Play is always open to members and non-members. The cost is $12.00 per child per hour. Cash or check only please. Please call 689-6151 in East Amherst or 662-7424 in Orchard Park today to reserve your spot!

Just Fun in Hamburg offers this Facebook special from 2/20-2/24: Buy-One-Get-One FREE of the same Just Fun attraction. You just have to say that you saw this Special on Facebook.

DAILY ACTIVITY SUGGESTIONS: (I highlighted the most interesting library activities - some require registration. I have also included the most searched activities on the website)

FEBRUARY 18th:

Basics of Photography Children's Workshop at the Brighton Place Library in Tonawanda. For ages 9-14 years, space is very limited, register now!
Lauren Tent, Educational Director from CEPA Gallery will be on hand to conduct a workshop for children on the basics of photography. The workshop will cover subjects, lighting and color. Children will receive a hands on experience on the role of a photographer is. There are two workshops- the first at 10:00 a.m. and the second starting at 11:15 a.m. Space is limited to 12 children per workshop so registration in advance is required.

21st Annual Winter Train and Toy Show from 10am-5pm at the event center on the Fairgrounds. Over 350 Tables filled with toy trains and collectibles, fun for the whole family. Adult tickets are $7 children 12 and under are free.

Paul the Amazing Artist at the Orchard Park Library: This event begins at 1:00 PM and it is a Family Event for all ages. Come and have fun with Paul the Amazing Artist. Balloon art, face painting and a whole lot more.

See many more library activities on the 18th here.

The Burchfield Nature and Art's Center First Annual Winterfest from 10am-7pm
••Music & play tent for the children •Horse Drawn Sleigh Rides through the park •Breakfast with the Birds •Ice carving •Woodworkers
•Quilters •Recycle workshop •Free activities for children & families •Animals from Messinger Woods •Hill for small ones to sled down •Snowman contest

Riviera Theatre Family Film Series Arthur Christmas (PG) Begins at 11am cost is $2.

Snowbirds at Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve at 10:30am Learn tips for watching birds in winter, and take part in the Great Backyard Bird Count. For adults and children age 8 and older. Registration required; call 716-683-5959 to sign up.

FEBRUARY 19th:

BCBS of WNY Snowman Making Challenge at Chestnut Ridge Park from noon-3pm. (no snow needed!)

21st Annual Winter Train and Toy Show from 10am-4pm at the event center on the Fairgrounds. Over 350 Tables filled with toy trains and collectibles, fun for the whole family. Adult tickets are $7 and children 12 and under are free.

FEBRUARY 20th:

Dollar Day at the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens. Kids 3 and under are FREE. FYI, this is a kid-friendly activity believe it or not!

Head over to Rotary Rink in downtown Buffalo for some outdoor ice skating. Bring your own skates or rent them for $2 (children) and $3 (adults). Or visit one of several other outdoor skating rinks.

Visit the Buffalo Museum of Science - get a $10 off coupon for NEW family memberships here!

FEBRUARY 21st:

Board Game and Craft Day at the Central Library. This event takes place at 1:00 PM - no registration is necessary. Bored? Visit the Kid's Space to play board games and make a craft. Children ages 6 and up. Children 5 and under with caregiver

See more library activities on the 21st here.

Go roller skating! Check out some of these places: Rainbow Rink in North Tonawada, Spinners Rink in West Seneca, Skateland in Lockport and many more.

FEBRUARY 22nd:

Nickel City Reptiles at the Grand Island Library at 2pm. Join us as Jeff Musial and his exotic animals vist the library. Registration is not required. Children under age 6 must be accompanied by an adult. For more information visit the library or call 773-7124.

See more library activities on the 22nd here.

Visit the Kazoo Factory in Eden, NY. Take a FREE self-guided tour. Get more information here.

Visit the Niagara Climbing Center in North Tonawanda!

FEBRUARY 23rd:

Bubblemania at the Lancaster Library at noon. Looking for something fun to do over winter break? Mark your calendars for Bubblemania!!! Children and adults alke will throughly enjoy Mr. Bubble's many talents from bubling, juggling, joking around and just plain fun. Come see bubbles bigger than your head! Entertainment for the entire family. Stop in or call 683-1120 to register.

See more library activities on the 23rd here.

If there's snow, go sledding. Get a list of Fun 4 Kids in Buffalo recommended sledding hills.

Outdoor Adventure Club: Winter Adaptation Walk at Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve at 10am. On this guided walk, we will search for animals that are adapted to brave our harsh winters. For children ages 10 and up. Snowshoe rental = $4.00/person; Friends of Reinstein members = $2.00. Registration required; call 716-683-5959 to sign up.

FEBRUARY 24th:

Charlie and Checkers at the Tonawanda Library at 2pm. (Visit the Charlie and Checkers website to see what they do!)

Don't Let the Pigeon Come to this Program for ages 6-10 at the Kenmore Branch Library from 3-4pm. During winter break, come in and enjoy a story time based on the hilarious books by Mo Willems! Children will hear stories, make crafts, and play a game. This program is geared toward children ages 6 to 10, and caregivers are welcome to join in. Registration is necessary and space is limited. Call 873-2842 for more information

See more activities at the library on the 24th here.

Family Snow Shoe Hike at Tifft Nature Preserve (snowshoeing is weather permitting - he program takes place with or without snow) Non-Members: $7. Buffalo Museum of Science Members Save 10%. Pre-registration required. Please call 896-5200, ext. 338.

Visit the Paddock Golf Dome for some fun indoor mini-golf! (Cost is $5)

FEBRUARY 25th:

Hamburg Masters Mini-Golf at the Hamburg Library at 2pm for ages 5-12. Join us for a fun-filled afternoon of playing miniature golf IN THE LIBRARY! Wii games and snacks as well. Space is limited, so register today.

FEBRUARY 26th:

WNY Health Expo from 10am-3pm at the Fairgrounds in Hamburg
Meet local healthcare experts, see live demonstrations, attend seminars, visit the children's area (complete with bounce house and slide) and get free samples at this one-day show. It's your chance to get all your healthcare questions answered in one place.

Diamond Alpacas of Clarence

2012-02-13T11:42:00.000-05:00

Looking for somethng fun and free to do with the kids? Stop by Diamond Alpacas of Clarence farm and meet the alpacas!

Diamond Alpacas of Clarence is located on 15 acres approximately 30 minutes from Buffalo and Niagara Falls in Western NY. They are conveniently located in a semi-suburban area and they have built a beautiful home for the alpacas!

The farm and store are open Monday through Saturday, 10am - 4pm. The alpacas love visitors! Learn about alpacas and shop the store. The farm and store are located at 8485 Wolcott Rd, Clarence, NY 14032.

6 or 12 Indoor Playground Visits to Toddle Town and More up to 57% off!

2012-02-13T07:48:00.005-05:00

A nice Groupon deal here for Toddle Town and More in Depew, NY! Here are the details:

For $17, you get 6 open-play visits (a $35 value).
For $30, you get 12 open-play visits (a $70 value).

Expires Jun 29, 2012 Limit 1 per person, may buy 1 additional as a gift. Valid only for option purchased. Please read the rest of the fine print before purchasing. Toddle Town is a peanut free environment.

I believe the usual admission fee for open play at Toddle Town is $8 so this is a great deal!

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. Thank you for using them.

Shrine Circus at the Fairgrounds March 15-18, 2012

2012-02-12T21:30:00.001-05:00

The Shrine Circus will once again be at the Fairgrounds in Hamburg, NY from March 15-18, 2012. If and when I hear of any discounts on tickets I will post it within this post as well as on the Facebook page.

Here are the dates and show times from the Fairgrounds website:

Date: Thursday-Sunday, March 15-18, 2012

Hours: Thursday: 10:30am & 7:00pm
Friday: 10:30am, 3:30pm & 7:00pm Saturday: 10:00am, 2:30pm & 7:30pm
Sunday: 1:00pm & 5:00pm

Admission: Adults $13.00, Seniors (61 & over) $10.00, Children(10 & under) $8.00

Parking: Free

I understand that some folks are completely opposed to the circus. Please know that I post about the circus one time per year. At the same time I also provide information on events at Hawk Creek as well as Hidden Animal Adventure throughout the year.

I am keeping the comments open on this post. Please keep your comments appropriate for this blog. (Appropriate comments include ticket discount information or helpful advice/reviews from those who have attended the circus with their kids in the past) If I find that a comment is not appropriate for this blog they will be deleted. Any concerns or personal beliefs you have about the circus can be directly emailed to me at fun4kidsinbuffalo (at) gmail (dot) com.

Once Upon a Time Preschool Story & Craft Time at the SPCA

2012-02-11T20:33:00.000-05:00

I have posted about this previously but thought it would be good to remind everyone of this great storytime at the SPCA. We saw the SPCA at the WNED Kid Fest and I loved how great they were with the kids.

The next story hour is 2/14/2012 from 10am-11am with a special Valentine's Day theme. The story time on 2/14 takes place at the SPCA Serving Erie County 205 Ensminger Road, Tonawanda.

For more information, contact Mary Jo at the SPCA: 629-3538! Remember, admission is free, reservations are required, and a parent or guardian must stay on-site with the child, who should be 2 - 5 years old. You wouldn't want to leave anyway...the classes are a lot of fun!

The next couple weeks the SPCA offers the preschool story time at the following locations (again, these are not held at the SPCA location):

Tuesday, February 21 at the Aurora Town Library 550 Main Street, East Aurora at 10:30am.

Tuesday, February 28 Lake Shore Library S 4857 Lake Shore Rd, Hamburg 6:30 pm

FREE Organic Valley Kids Activity Kit

2012-02-11T11:27:00.004-05:00

A nice little freebie here which includes a $1 off coupon!

You can head over to the Organic Valley website and sign up for the Organic Valley Kids Activity Flyer. On the back of the flyer is a $1 off coupon for a 12 pack of the single serve milk.

I like getting these kind of FREE activity sheets in the mail because they are the sort of things I save for a long car ride, rainy/snowy day, etc.

Homemade Marshmallows with a Valentine's Day Twist

2012-02-09T21:28:00.002-05:00

The last couple of weeks I've been seeing a lot of homemade marshmallow recipes popping up on some of the blogs that I read. When Mother Thyme (a Buffalo food blogger) posted her recipe for Homemade Marshmallows with a little Valentine's twist I decided to give it a try.

Get the entire recipe from Mother Thyme here. I did exactly what she said to do in her recipe.

After everything was cooked and mixed (which took about 30 minutes) here are my marshmallows ready to go in the refrigerator for a minimum of 3 hours.

After dinner the marshmallows were ready. Now the true test - were they actually going to taste like marshmallows? Surprisingly, yes! I flipped them out onto a large pastry sheet on the kitchen table and the kids and I got down to the business of decorating our treats!

With a little help the kids used the heart cookie cutter to cut our hearts. This is not pictured but I had strawberry melting chocolate from Michael's Craft Store and some Valentine's sprinkles. A total hit, by the way! Both of them were asking to decorate (and eat) more and more!

As the "final touch", the kids shook a little powdered sugar onto the tops and stuck a lollipop stick in them.

FYI, I had tons of marshmallow "scraps" left. Using my kitchen scissors I just cut them up into pieces, through them in a container with some powdered sugar to keep them from getting too sticky and tossed them all around. With a high of 18 degrees on Saturday I think we will use some of them for a nice cup of hot chocolate!

Buffalo Auto Show 2012

2012-02-09T20:30:00.000-05:00

Surprisingly, there are several fun things for kids at the Buffalo Auto Show! From what I can tell some of the character appearances seem to be happening on Saturday and Sunday of the show. Of course, if your kids are like my 5 year old boy, seeing all the cars will also be a lot of fun! (FYI, children 5 and under are FREE!)

Ticket Prices are as follows:

At the Gate: $9.00
Presale at TOPS or NOCO: $8.00
Presale only - Family 4 pack - $27.00
Children 5yrs and under - FREE

Character appearances include the Fisher Price Rescue Heroes as well as Captain America. Also, it looks as though a Bills player or two as well as a Sabres player will be making appearances.

Need more information? Head over to the Buffalo Auto Show website.

Saturday Fun 2/11/2012

2012-02-09T19:48:00.002-05:00

*Abraham Lincoln's 203rd Birthday Celebration at the Buffalo and Erie County Historical Society (Cost is FREE)

*Hunter's Day of Hope for Children in Orchard Park. Cost is FREE.

*TOPS cooking school offers Queen of Hearts Tea Party for Little Chefs ages 3-6 with a parent. Cost is $13 per child. (Get the rest of the information at this link)

If you're kids are interested in these cooking classes, there are several Valentine's themed cooking classes coming up for different age groups. Read about them here.

*Western New York Book Arts Collaborative

Saturday the Western New York Book Arts Center is featuring a special workshop: Origami Books & Book Origami for kids. The workshop will be taught by certified art teacher/local artist Amy Hartman. 12-2pm, $25 including materials. Register soon!

Buffalo Auto Show Some fun things for kids happening on Saturday and Sunday!

*North Collins Winterfest (the 10th and 11th) Cost is FREE

*Barnes and Noble Amherst Location offers Plant a Kiss with Little Miss Event at 11am

Join us this morning for a special Valentine's Day event featuring the book, Plant a Kiss by Amy Krouse Rosenthal. Included in this free event will be great stories, craft packets for each child and a special snack surprise! Cost is FREE

*Flower Crafts with Seeds and Nuts at the Audubon Library for ages 6-12 at 1pm.

Presented by the Smallwood Garden Club. Use found objects in nature to create flowers. Items will be used to design an arrangement to take home. Registration required. Cost is FREE

*Riviera Family Film Series showing The Muppets (PG) Cost is $2.

*Niagara Hobby and Craft Mart Valentines Day Children's Craft Workshop. Registration required. Cost is FREE

*Valentines Day Doll Tea Party at Pottery Barn Kids at 3pm and 4pm.

A special tea time in celebration of Valentine's Day. Get dressed up and bring your doll or teddy bear in for an afternoon of refreshments, stories and crafts. Registration required. Cost is FREE

*Middle School Student Night from 7-9:30pm

The totally free Middle School Activity Nights are once a month, and open to any Middle School Students! The coffee house, mini-gym and Main hall are open! We sell low priced snacks and beverages, the big-screen tv will have a sporting game on, there's basketball in the mini-gym, 4-square, ping pong, foosball and arts & crafts are happening in the main hall, and free wi-fi is available everywhere in the building. Other than food, everything is free! (Water fountain also available).

*If you registered weeks ago your child can Make a Valentine Card Creator at Lowes Build and Grow from 10am-11am. This class has been filled for at least 2 weeks! And I see that the February 25th class is already full!!

*Meet Clifford at B is for Books from 10am-2pm plus Valentines crafts and activities.

Valentine's Day is just around the corner and who better to celebrate it with than a Big, Red, lovable dog? Clifford will be at the store giving hugs, high-fives and having photos taken with his friends. There will also be Valentines crafts and activities for kids. Cost is FREE

*Buffalo Winterfest on both Saturday and Sunday. Cost is FREE

*WNY Home and Garden Expo (Cost is FREE for kids 10 and under) There really are some great activities for kids here!

SUNDAY the 12th

Family Film Series at Shea's - showing The Never Ending Story. Get your FREE tickets at Erie and Niagara County Wegman's.

Winterfest in Glen Park from 1-4pm.

Family events. Hayrides, petting zoo, hiking, sledding, snowshoeing, refreshments. Snow or no snow event will go on. Cost is FREE

WNY Home and Garden Expo

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If the adults in the family want to see what's new at the WNY Home and Garden Expo this weekend, feel free to bring the kids! Kids 10 and under are FREE and there are kids activities at the expo!

Straight from the WNY Home and Garden Expo website:

Parents, make sure you bring your children to The Penn Dixie Paleontological & Education Center Display at this year’s Expo. The Penn Dixie staff and volunteers have plenty of activities for KIDS of all ages. They’re FUN and EDUCATIONAL!

Here’s just a few of the activities your children can enjoy…

♦ Kids, Get your hands dirty and Dig for a FREE authentic fossil and then learn how to identify it.

♦ View fossils from the Penn Dixie Site that lived in the ocean 380 million years before the dinosaurs.

♦ For the less adventurous little ones with you, stop at the coloring and activity area and let them be creative.

♦ Look through a real telescope!

The WNY Home and Garden Expo takes place Thursday, February 9, 2012 at 10:00am until Sunday, February 12, 2012 at 5:00pm at the Hamburg Fairgrounds - Event Center & Expo Hall

Admission: Adults $6.00, Children under 10 are Free

Buffalo Winterfest

2012-02-08T20:27:00.000-05:00

Another great Winterfest headed your way this weekend!

The 3rd Annual Buffalo Winterfest & Powder Keg Festival is set for Feb 11th and 12th, 2012! The festival will feature outdoor events in Niagara Square, along two blocks of Delaware Avenue, as well as indoor events in the historic Statler City building. There will be activities that have no need for snow.

There are so many FREE, fun things happening which you can read about on the Buffalo Winterfest website. But here are a few things highlighted for the kids:

Kids will be entertained with a petting zoo, hockey shot competitions, Kan Jam, a Scavenger Hunt, Hay Rides and a visit from the SPCA Whisker Wagon.

AND

Inside the Statler the building’s 2nd floor will feature a family entertainment area with carnival games, face painting and winter crafts. Other activities include a chili cook-off and local food trucks that will be set up long Delaware Ave. the entire festival weekend.

FREE: Hunter's Day of Hope for Children

2012-02-08T13:54:00.001-05:00

Every year when this event pops up I cannot tell you how many great comments I get from parents. Kids (and parents) LOVE this event.

Hunter's Day of Hope for Children takes place at the Buffalo Bills Fieldhouse in Orchard Park, NY. This FREE event happens from 1-4pm on Saturday, February 11th!

FREE Admission, Activities, Food & Beverage! Entertainment for kids of all ages.
Fun games, prizes and give-a-ways.

Hunter's Day of Hope for Children fulfills one of the primary goals of Hunter's Hope
to remind parents how blessed they are to have the gift of children and to thank God for them everyday! During Hunter's Day of Hope for Children, families come together
and spend time just having fun (music, dancing, games, face painting and food).
Most importantly we all gather together and pray for our children. How wonderful is that!

On a side note - absolutely wonderful book written by Jill Kelly. Without A Word is a touching, encouraging and inspiring read. I highly recommend it!

Sesame Street Live Elmo's Superheroes at Shea's!

2012-02-08T10:09:00.002-05:00

Sesame Street Live Elmo’s Super Heroes is coming to Shea's February 22-26, 2012!

Press Release follows:

Super Grover has lost his super-ness and Sesame Street needs a hero! Never fear, the fabulous five Super Heroes are here -- featuring Elmo as Captain Fuzzy! Elmo, Abby Cadabby, Big Bird and all their friends are on a quest to put the “super” back in Super Grover. Singing and dancing their way through fun lessons on healthy habits, they discover how exercise, rest, nutritious food and good hygiene can save Super Grover -- and turn your children into Super Heroes, too! You’ll be feeling good when Elmo’s Super Heroes comes to town!

If you're interested in purchasing tickets, you can use the code ERNIE online at ticketmaster.com to save $3 per ticket. (Excludes gold circle and sunny seats. Not valid on opening night or previously purchased tickets. Cannot be combine with any other offer.)

If you have a better deal on a coupon code, please leave a comment below or on the facebook page!

Blast-off Rocket Candy Card!

2012-02-08T09:36:00.002-05:00

I found this idea over at the Family Fun website. You can get all the details there.

When I saw these Rocket Valentine's Day cards I knew my son and I had to do them for his class Valentine's Day party next week!

Instead of Lifesavers (as suggested in the card outline) we used Mentos. I did spend a good bit of time searching around different stores for the Lifesavers but couldn't find any. In hindsight I think we should have used Rolos...they would have been about .25 cents cheaper per card. (And, more importantly, they are my favorite candy!)

1. Wrap construction paper around the body of the rocket (a roll of candy). Tape it down very well.

2. Glue the Hershey Kiss onto the top of the rocket. (I have a glue gun from my scrapbooking days and that worked well. My son held the rockets while I glued the Kisses on)

3. Write your message on the rocket. We copied the Family Fun idea and wrote "You're a Blast!" on the body of the rocket.

4. Get your template for the rocket flames. For some reason the Family Fun website does not include this template. My husband drew the one below for me:

5. Write the names of the children on the flame of the Rocket card (Ben did this as well). Snip the tab in half along the solid line, fold the 2 flaps in opposite directions, and tape the flame to one end of the candy roll. (A little complicated for a Kindergartner so Ben handed me the pieces of tape for this job)

Unfortunately, the price tag on these cards is not very wallet friendly. I spent $17 to make 15 cards (each Mentos pkg was .99cents). Yikes!! I'm still happy we made them - Ben had a great time working on it with me and I'm sure his classmates will think they are pretty cool!

Here are a few, free Valentines Day card ideas:

Toilet Paper Tube Valentines Day Stamp and Potato Stamp (yes, you really do use a potato!)

Check out the Family Fun website for many Valentine Ideas including crafts, cards, printables, gift ideas and much more!

I would love to hear your ideas for a fun Valentines Day card! Leave a comment below or on the Facebook page!

‎$10 for a Girls Facial and Manicure From Little Diva's Day Spa

2012-02-08T07:38:00.002-05:00

If your little girls love to be pampered, you may want to check out this deal from Seize the Deal.

Just $10 will get your little girl a facial and manicure from Little Diva's Day Spa in Hamburg, NY.

Here are some of the details and fine print:

Expires May. 08, 2012

No purchase limit. Valid for ages 13 and under. Not valid on birthday parties. No cash value; no cash/credit back. Not valid with any other offer. Must use entire voucher in same visit. Limit three vouchers per visit. Please see Consumer FAQ's for more details.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links - thank you for using them.

FREE: Abraham Lincoln's 203rd Birthday Celebration at the Buffalo and Erie County Historical Society

2012-02-07T20:48:00.000-05:00

This will be a great, FREE event on Saturday February 11th, 2012! Also a good chance to check out the Buffalo and Erie County Historical Society if you have not had a chance to do so. (We have yet to do so!!) This is a completely FREE event!

Abraham Lincoln's 203rd Birthday Celebration

The following information comes directly from the Historical Society's website:

Civil War Re-enactors, Live Period Music, Author Signing & Model Trains and more !

The Irish Volunteers Civil War Band perform popular songs of the era including “The Battle Hymn of the Republic,” “Dixie,” “The Bonnie Blue Flag,” and “Buffalo Gals.”

“One Nation Under God” author Donald Mang will be present to sign copies of his book, which is available at our gift shop for purchase.

The Rail Barons model train is on display and features more than 200 feet of HO-gauge track and 100 scale buildings depicting scenes throughout Western New York at the turn of the 20th century.

Docents will be on hand to offer brief tours of “Fact, Fiction & Spectacle: The Trial of Red Jacket” exhibit.

Attendees may also take free mini-tours of the museum.

Free and open to the public.

North Collins Winterfest 2012

2012-02-07T16:35:00.000-05:00

The North Collins Winterfest 2012 is headed your way this weekend February 10-11!

Fridays events looked to be geared towards the older (you know, people like me!) crowd. But there are several fun, family events on Saturday the 11th.

These include: Family fun will include sledding, ice skating, sleigh rides and bonfire warm-up stations around the park.

I guess my usual disclaimer for these Winterfests is that these Winterfests would like to have snow and many don't have it! Buffalo is having such an unusual winter (can we even call it that?) that many of these types of outdoor, winter events are "thinking outside the box!"

Get more details at this Metro WNY article!

FREE Start Smart Teen Driving Seminar

2012-02-07T09:41:00.000-05:00

Thankfully, we've got a ways to go before our son even thinks about driving! (Scary to think about...I remember the stupid things I did when I was a teenage driver!)

This Start Smart Teen Driving Seminar takes place on Feburary 9th, 2012 from 6:30-8pm in Amherst. It is for parents AND teens and it is FREE but please register in advance at this link.

AAA offers Start Smart Teen Driving Seminars to help parents and teens understand:

The licensing process; Learn about DMV regulations; Licensing requirements; Documentation; Technology available for parents; The importance of safe driving habits.

Buffalo Museum of Science NEW Family Membership Coupon

2012-02-06T21:02:00.001-05:00

I took the 2 little girls (3 years and 15 mos.) down to the Buffalo Museum of Science last week to meet a friend for a playdate. I'm a little embarrassed to admit we haven't been in about 4 years! Since it was SO long ago I was not even sure what to expect!

We never even made it out of the Explorations Room! We spent a couple of hours in there exploring and playing. The favorites with my oldest daughter was definitely the water table area as well as the big ice block station. Our "playdate" friends were boys and they were "digging" the trucks and the pipe building station. (It reminded me a bit of Explore and More)

FYI, the explorations room also has a "family room" off to the side. Basically, it's a small (gated) area with a few toys, changing area and a couple of rocking chairs if you need to nurse your child. Very convenient and thoughtful of BMS to consider this need for the mommies!

Considering that we paid $15 to basically "play", I wish we would have had more time to check out the rest of the museum.

Anyway, Heather, commented on my Facebook page that there is currently a $10 off coupon for NEW Family Memberships. This makes the cost of a family membership $50 for the year. Remember, this is for NEW memberships only!

While I was on the BMS website something else caught my eye. Buffalo Museum of Science offers adults Final Friday Date Nights. When adults purchase admission to CSI: The Experience they can take advantage of drop-off program for the kids. Here is the info pulled directly from the BMS website:

The museum and CSI exhibit will be open until 9pm on the last Friday of each month, and our education staff is offering a drop-off childcare program for kids aged 3-12 from 7 to 8:30pm so that you can enjoy the exhibit!

General museum admission or BMS Membership is required for kids to participate.

FREE Cloth Diaper Class

2012-02-06T20:42:00.000-05:00

Some great information here for any mommas that choose to cloth diaper!

Free cloth diaper class at Rising Sun Yoga in Williamsville on February 11th at 2:30pm.

Join us on the floor (with cushion seats for your comfort) for a relaxing cloth diapering class. Learn about the basics or share your prior knowledge of cloth diapering. Feel the different materials that cloth diapers are made from. See the modern styles and how to fasten them. Change a diaper on Baby Bongo's cloth diapering buddies. Discover how cost effective and easy home laundering is. Leave class with a platform of knowledge that will lead you to the cloth diapering decisions that are right for you and your family.

Register by emailing mj@babybongos.com with your name.

Check out a full listing of more FREE events such as these cloth diaper classes over at the Baby Bongos website.

Mothertime Marketplace Launches a New Website!

2012-02-06T13:56:00.003-05:00

Mothertime Marketplace Western New York's Largest Children's Consignment Event is happy to announce the launch of their brand NEW website!

Head over to check out their new look and new features! Also, find out everything you need to know about the Mothertime Marketplace Spring/Summer Sale coming up March 16-18th, 2012 at the Hamburg Fairgrounds!

February/Mid-Winter Break Camps 2012

2012-02-05T21:18:00.005-05:00

1. Orchard Park Recreation: Winter Ecology Adventure Camp for boys and girls ages 8-13. February 21-24 from 9am-3pm. $125 per person - Participants can be dropped off at 7:30am and picked up at 5pm.

The week will consist of activities such as wildlife ecology, snowshoeing, animal tracking, environmental games, winter tree identification, adventure hikes, historic games and winter survival skills and three field trips!

2. TOPS cooking school at the Amherst and West Seneca locations.

Junior Chefs Winter Camps on 2/21 and 2/22. Cost is $25 per session and sessions are 3 hours in length. Get details here

Aspiring Chefs Winter Camps on 2/20 and 2/24. Cost is $25 per session and sessions are 3 hours in length. Get details here

3. Monkey See Monkey Do Children's Bookstore in Clarence MID-WINTER BREAK CAMPS (just click the link to get all the specific details on the camps)

Tuesday, February 21 - Jumanji: 30th Anniversary Celebration 9 am – noon $30 per person; 20% sibling discount. For ages 7-10

Mini Mangia Camp: Making Rainbows! 12:30-3:30pm $49 per child; 20% sibling discount
Ages 6 – 11

Wednesday, February 22 - Arrrr! Shiver Me Timbers! 9am-noon $30 per child; 20 % sibling discount; 10% discount if child attends both Wednesday camps. Ages 4+

My Name is Special! 12:30 - 3:30 pm $30/child. 20% sibling discount. 10% discount if child attends both Wednesday camps. Ages 4+

Thursday, February 23 - Artists Create Jumanji from 9 AM – noon. $45 per child; 20% sibling discount. Ages 6-11. Students will need to bring a smock.

Lend A Hand With Molly from 12:30 – 3:30 pm. $30 per child; 20% sibling discount. Ages 7 and up.

4. Tifft Nature Preserve: Wild about Winter Discovery Camp

What do you think animals do in winter? What do you like to do? Exploration of nature in winter is full of surprises and lots of fun too. Daily snack provided. 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM from Tuesday, February 21 - Thursday, February 23 for ages 5-8 Members: $90 per child and Non-Members: $100 per child Pre-registration required. Register online or call 896-5200, ext. 201 Registration Deadline: February 14

5. Buffalo Museum of Science: Discovery Camps - Nanotechnology??? What's That?

“Only those who can see the invisible can do the impossible,” Albert Einstein once said. Imagine a world right in front of your eyes, but you can’t see it. Imagine a science that uses individual atoms and molecules to build computers, dirt repellant cloth, shock-resistant armor, and so many other things we have only seen in science fiction. Imagine you exploring this strange and wonderful world in camp. What a way to spend a week!!
Feb. 20-24 from 9:00 am – 4:30 pm for ages 5-12. Fee: Non-members: $190/child Museum Members save 10%

6. Rolly Pollies "Community Helpers and Heroes" Camps

We will have special guests all week including firefighters, police officers, doctors and more! February 20th - February 23rd for 3-9 year olds from 1-4pm. The cost for the 4 day camp is $140.00 for one child, $225.00 for 2 siblings, and $330.00 for 3 or more siblings! Registration due on or before February 13th.

7. Amherst Mid-Winter Camps: February 21 - February 24 Camp offered at Harlem Road Youth Center, 4255 Harlem Rd. & Williamsville Youth Center, 5005 Sheridan Dr Get all the details here (First priority is given to Amherst residents)

8. Lakeview Community Church: Break Away, Feb 21-24th, 9:30 am until 12 noon. Arctic VBS style fun for pre k to 5th grade! Check out the FB page for more info!

9. Vacation Club at the Ken-Ton YMCA: For kids ages 5-12 years of age. Vacation club is offered from 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. and is only $27 a day for YMCA members and $37 a day for those who are not members of the YMCA. Get the details on daily activities at this Metro WNY article.

10. Burchfield Nature and Art Center Winter Camps for ages K-4th grade. Get the details here.

Boulevard Buddies FREE February Meeting

2012-02-05T20:52:00.001-05:00

The month of February has several fun, free, Valentines-themed activities. Here is one of them!

Friends from Auntie Annes Hot Pretzels will help us celebrate Valentines Day by making our own heart shaped pretzels. We'll make our own tissue paper roses to take home.

RSVP by Friday, February 10th by calling Sue at 834-5192.

Boulevard Buddies is a great program from the Boulevard Mall. It meets the second Tuesday of each month at 10:30am in the Food Court. Read more about it here.

Mom Review: WNED Kid Fest

2012-02-04T20:03:00.008-05:00

12:30-3pm is a sacred time in our house. Rarely (and when I say rarely, I mean about 3-4 times a year) do I ever mess around with what happens during this sacred time. You know, what I'm talking about...naps. Even if you are reading this and your kids don't nap at one time they probably did. So you can relate to what I'm saying!

Today was one of those days where we skipped a nap to attend the WNED Kid Fest from noon-5pm. (I'm sure WNED has a reason for offering Kid Fest during this time but perhaps they should consider an earlier start time? I think there just might be some happier kids and parents in attendance!) As I'm writing this I see that in the stage show schedule you receive upon arriving it shows the first show at 11am. The WNED website lists the Kid Fest start time as noon. I'm thinking the 11am time is to accommodate those who attend the character breakfast which ends at 10:30?

Let me preface by saying this was our (me, the 5 year old boy and the 3 year old girl) first time in attendance at the Kid Fest.

Upon arrival around 12:30pm I thought perhaps there would be a parking issue. The lot was very full but (strangely) some people were already leaving so we found a spot pretty easily. Parking is FREE

Once inside the building I was immediately impressed with the multitude of friendly volunteers (mostly older people) who offered each of the kids a rather large reusable shopping bag filled with "stuff". (Fun kid stuff and parents stuff as well!) In hindsight I wish we would have picked up the goodie bags when we left rather than me having to carry them around for a couple hours!

There was a coat room - my advice to you is use it!

We headed into Studio One, which is the main activity area. (The entrance is right across from the food concessions area. Thankfully, neither of my children noticed that coming or going!) My initial thought upon entering was "Whoa, this is a LOT of people!" I think because the very LONG lines for face painting and tattoos are near the entrance that it makes it seem like there are tons of people around. Once we worked our way into the room there was quite a bit of space.

It was fun to catch the end of Doug Ventura, Pet Detective from the Buffalo Museum of Science. My 5 year old was definitely more interested in that than the 3 year old. The "family" favorite stage show was hands down the wonderful group of people from the SPCA Wildlife Education Program.

My 5 year old said his favorite things were the Supertoos (waited in line about 10-15 minutes for this) To avoid waiting in line with the kids for the facepainting or tattoos my advice would be make your husband/mother/father/friend wait while you entertain the kids elsewhere in the room.

My 3 year old loved the owl (and other animals) the SPCA brought in. I was very impressed with them as well. The people with the SPCA were very friendly, helpful and engaging with the kids.

Other activities included 2 areas for Character Meet and Greets; Bounce Magic brought in a pretty cool basketball hoop game; Rolly Pollies was outstanding and very popular with my kids and several more businesses.

This review is getting a little lengthy but truly there were so many things to do at the Kid Fest. We spent just 2 hours but I think we possibly could have stayed 30-60 minutes longer. Also, in general, I thought the event was very organized and the flow of people coming through was never overwhelming. I was especially pleased with how friendly everyone (that was a part of Kid Fest) was with all the children milling around.

Side note here: When we got home it almost felt like Christmas all over again to go through the goodie bags the kids got. So many coupons - free bowling; free admission to the Aquarium of Niagara; free roller skating; discounts at restaurants and so many more! (As you can tell, it doesn't take much to make me happy!)

Disclaimer: Back in December I ran a giveaway for the WNED Kid Fest. In exchange, WNED provided me and my family with tickets to attend the 2012 Kid Fest. This Mom Review is my honest opinion and has not been influenced in anyway by WNED.

FREE Valentines Craft Events at Michaels

2012-02-04T19:44:00.004-05:00

I was just going through my inbox and came across Michael's February crafting events. There are 2 1 FREE Make-it Take-it events at Michael's stores tomorrow, Sunday the 5th!

Valentines Day Foam Mailbox from 1-2pm and a Kids Valentines Day Card from 2-3pm. Both crafts are for ages 3 and up and it is only while supplies last!

Correction: The Valentines Day Foam Mailbox must be purchased! Sorry about that. The Kids Valentines Day Card is the only FREE craft!

Winter Reading Competition at the Buffalo & Erie County Public Library System

2012-02-04T18:40:00.000-05:00

Winter Reading Contest for Kids ages 4-12 from January 30-February 20th, 2012! Also, available for Teens ages 13-17 and Adults!

The competition involves Book Reviews

Winter Reading participants are asked to write brief book reviews, each of which counts as an entry in a prize drawing. The more book reviews you submit, the more chances you have to win! Submissions can be fiction or nonfiction books.

Get more details on what to include in your reviews here. Register for the Competition at this link.

You could be the lucky winner of one of many PRIZES including:

GRAND PRIZE - Winter Break basket includes movie tickets, restaurant gift certificate and other goodies

Second Prize: Barnes & Noble gift card

Third Place - Fleece Blanket and hot chocolate

Winners will be notified by e-mail or telephone by March 9

Need the info on the teen competition, get it here! (Teen winner could win an Amazon Kindle Fire!)

FREE Lego Building Event at Toys R Us (and take home what you build!)

2012-02-02T13:43:00.004-05:00

Here are the details:

Event takes place this Saturday, February 4th, 2012 at Toys R Us stores nationwide from noon-2pm. Children are invited to build mini LEGO lemonade stands then take them home to add to their LEGO cities.

This event benefits Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation which is a non-profit group dedicated to finding better treatments and ultimately cures for all kids with cancer.

For each LEGO lemonade stand constructed in store, the LEGO Children's Fund will donate $1, up to $10,000, to Alex's Lemonade Stand Foundation.

Need more information? Get all the details here.

EXPIRED!! Journey 2: The Mysterious Island - Screening Pass Giveaway

2012-02-02T13:06:00.001-05:00

ETA: All passes have been taken at this time!

Get screening passes while you can, there are only a limited number of family four packs available!

You and your family are invited to an advanced screening of JOURNEY 2: THE MYSTERIOUS ISLAND! Screening takes place next Tuesday evening, February 7th, at the Regal Elmwood!

To download your tickets, log on to gofobo. Remember to bring the printed screening pass(es) to the screening. Please be sure to arrive early as seating is on a first come first serve basis and is not guaranteed. (The movie starts at 7 so we suggest people with passes arrive by at least 6) Limit 4 passes per email address. Tickets may exceed the number of seats to ensure a full house. No purchase necessary.

In this follow-up to the 2008 worldwide hit “Journey to the Center of the Earth,” the new 3D family adventure “Journey 2: The Mysterious Island” begins when young Sean Anderson (Josh Hutcherson, reprising his role from the first film) receives a coded distress signal from a mysterious island where no island should exist. It’s a place of strange life forms, mountains of gold, deadly volcanoes, and more than one astonishing secret.

Unable to stop him from going, Sean’s new stepfather, Hank (Dwayne Johnson), joins the quest. Together with a helicopter pilot (Luis Guzmán) and his beautiful, strong-willed daughter (Vanessa Hudgens), they set out to find the island, rescue its lone inhabitant and escape before seismic shockwaves force the island under the sea and bury its treasures forever.

Journey 2 : The Mysterious Island is in theaters February 10th!

www.themysteriousisland.com

This film has been rated PG by the MPAA

Saturday Fun 2/4/2012

2012-02-02T08:00:00.002-05:00

Alden Winterfest (FREE)

Children's Dental Health Day at the Boulevard Mall. FREE toothpaste, toothbrushes, floss, etc. at the Sears Court area. (FREE)

Lego Building Event at Toys R Us (take home what you build) noon-2pm (FREE)

BCBS of WNY Snowman Making Challenge (FREE)

Zooper Saturday (Family Valentine's Day)

Spend some quality time together at our Family Valentine's Day event! You will enjoy animal demonstrations and enrichment activities, and you may decide to make a Valentine's Day card for a family member, friend or even your favorite animal at the Zoo. The event runs from 11:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m., and activities are free with Zoo admission. (FREE if a member otherwise $)

Kids Winter Workshop at the Frank Lloyd Wright Martin House Complex. Registration required. ($)

Kids Workshop at the Home Depot from 9am-noon. Make a Keepsake Box (FREE)

WNY Farm Show (FREE)

Frosty Fun Festival at Tifft Nature Preserve from 10am-2pm

Celebrate winter in western New York and shake off your cabin fever! Drop in and join us for guided snowshoe* hikes, indoor winter crafts, snow animal sculpture contest (with prizes!), animal tracking, animal adaptations in winter, snowflake investigation station and more! There will also be food and hot beverages available for purchase. *Snowshoeing is weather permitting. ($5 for non members)

Aquarium of Niagara offers Storytelling Saturdays each weekend in February

The first storyteller will be Annemarie Jason, an annual Aquarium visitor, who literally pulls her tales out of her “story hat.” Her stories involve music, action, puppets and rhymes. She and the other three tellers of tales will appear at 11:30 a.m. and 2:45 p.m. each Saturday. ($)

Happy Feet Two showing at the Riviera Theatre at 11am ($2)

Book Signing and Mini Cooking Program at Monkey See Monkey Do from 11-11:45am.
Call 204-8417 to register
Author Marilyn Cappellino will join us for a signing of her latest recipe book, Mangia! Insalata. Insalata is the third in a series of Mangia! books Marilyn has written for ages 4 and up. Come meet the author, and sample some of the recipes she’s made with children during camps and classes here (FREE)

Kids Science Challenge Competition

2012-02-02T07:42:00.005-05:00

This looks like a lot of fun for your kids grades 3-6!

The Kids' Science Challenge is a FREE nationwide competition for 3rd to 6th graders to submit ideas and experiments for scientists and engineers to solve. Play science games, watch videos, do fun activities and enter to win awesome prizes and trips!

This year's topic is Zero Waste and the KSC website offers a cool brainstorming tool to help your kids get started.

Get the rest of the details on the Kids Science Challenge website! ETA: It may be a little late for this but the entry form states: The first 1,000 entries will receive free Science Activity Kits. Build a bird feeder and make a boat from rock paper and more

The contest is open until February 29, 2012 and is made possible by the National Science Foundation.

Kindergarten Chronicles - 11

2012-02-01T20:59:00.000-05:00

Welcome to a "chronicle" of my trip through Kindergarten from a mothers perspective. This is my first time on this trip. If it's the first time for you, I hope you will join me (even if you're an old pro, please read along!) Go here if you missed Kindergarten Chronicles 1-10.

A lot has been happening these last couple of weeks in Kindergarten!

First, I was reminded to read the instructions! As a grown-up one would think that I would not need such a reminder. The child's teacher sends home a "communication" letter/note at the end of each week. This weekly letter states what the children did during the week as well as upcoming events. The letter on January 6th let the parents know that show and tell was to begin the following week. The class was split into 3 groups - a Monday group, a Wednesday group and a Friday group. Our son's day was Wednesday.

Check - got it! Make sure the child has a show and tell for Wednesday, no problem! Wednesday comes and goes and show and tell is taken and brought back home. Check - did that. A couple weeks go by and the last week of January I find out that show and tell is actually a weekly activity from the second week of January until the end of the school year. Clearly, I did not read the instructions!

Enough about my screw ups - on to the boy.

He lost his first tooth...at school. I was so excited but at the same time a little sad that it didn't happen at home. But hey, there will be more teeth to lose. The child stayed awake quite late in his bed that night waiting for the tooth fairy to come!

I am constantly surprised at how smart these Kindergartners are! Really, it's true - at this age their minds are like sponges! For example, right now I am seeing huge strides in my son's ability to read. We are a "reading" family and I really hope our children will love to read as much as their parents do.

This year we have introduced an extra-curricular activity into the child's schedule. The consistency of an extra activity along with the practice that goes with it is a good way to teach discipline. Of course, this has forced me to be quite disciplined as well since I must sit with him each day during his practice sessions.

Finally, (as mentioned last month) the month of "half-birthdays" continues for a little longer. Cake, cookies, candy, cupcakes...the sugar high continues.

BCBS Snowman Making Challenge

2012-02-01T10:35:00.001-05:00

Blue Cross Blue Shield offers the Second Annual Snowman Making Challenge each weekend in February. The Snowman Making Challenge will be at a different location each weekend.

Registration is not required BUT if you register ahead of time you will be entered into prize drawings.

Locations and dates are the following:

February 5, 2012: Martin Luther King Park from 1-3pm

February 12, 2012: Buffalo Winterfest from 12-3pm

February 19, 2012: Chestnut Ridge Park from 12-3pm

February 26, 2012: Jewish Community Center Benderson Campus from 12-3pm

*Snowman Making Challenge includes prizes. Also, there will be free refreshments

Alden Winterfest 2012

2012-01-31T21:30:00.001-05:00

Another fabulous winterfest! Let's hope for snow!

Here are just a few (out of 40, according to the Winterfest website) free, fun, family activities at the Alden Winterfest:

Family Fun at the Community Center including cookie decorating and a movie "Mr Poppers Penquins" from 7-9 pm on Friday the 3rd.

Activities at Alden High School
“Wee Ones” games (10 and under) will again be featured in the High School cafeteria from 10am-1pm Saturday, A free Family Swim is available in the High School pool from 1-5, sponsored by the Alden Recreation Dept. Then head up to the park for snowman making and field games. (Saturday, the 4th)

Hockey Shoot Out
The ice rink will host this year's hockey shoot-out Saturday from noon - 2 pm. There will be three age categories: 10 & under; 11 – 15 and 16 & over. The shoot out will be played with balls and a live goalie! No pre-registration required, just sign in at the event. Medals will be awarded. (Saturday, the 4th)

ETA: Here's a great, detailed schedule of events!

Children's Dental Health Day

2012-01-31T19:34:00.000-05:00

If you're at the Boulevard Mall this Saturday, February 4th, swing by the Sears Court for some freebies!

It's Children's Dental Health Day at the Boulevard Mall from 10am-2pm at the Sears Court!

Dudley the Dinosaur will be distributing toothbrushes, toothpaste, dental floss and oral hygiene brochures from 10a.m. - 2p.m. in the Sears Court on Saturday, February 4th while supplies last. Dentists from the Eighth District Dental Society will be available to answer questions regarding dental health for children of all ages.

Kids Winter Workshop at the Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House Complex

2012-01-30T20:24:00.000-05:00

We have yet to visit Frank Lloyd Wright's Martin House Complex. I hope we can sometime soon! This Kids Winter Workshop at the Martin House Complex caught my eye. Here are the details:

Workshop takes place February 4, 2012 from 1-4pm at the Greatbatch Pavilion.

Participants will explore Japanese art and architecture through printmaking, book-making, and origami (the art of paper-folding). (Ages 8 and up)

Members - $20; Non-Members - $25

Space is limited to 24 participants. Make reservations online or by calling 716.856.3858.

WNY Farm Show - FREE

2012-01-30T09:55:00.000-05:00

I'm not entirely sure on all the details of this event but I had to mention it. I am intrigued by the skid steer rodeo. (Search it on YouTube if you want to know what it is!)

Here's what the Hamburg Chamber of Commerce has to say about the WNY Farm Show:

This free, two-day informational trade show is for farm owners, nursery growers, and landscapers from in and around the WNY area. Workshops, focusing on strategic areas affecting business currently, will be led by industry professionals from cooperative partners. In addition, a skid steer rodeo, and various entertainment events are planned. For additional details, please visit our website at www.wnyfarmshow.com Dates & Times: February 2, 2012 – Noon to 8 PM February 3, 2012 – 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM Free event, open to everyone.

Directions:
Erie County Fairgrounds

I'm not going to say this will be a super fun event for kids. However for our family, if we were in the area on Saturday, we would probably stop by. (Just to say we had seen a skid steer rodeo!)

Tifft Nature Preserve February Events

2012-01-29T14:47:00.001-05:00

Thank you Lauren for sending this information!

Groundhog Day Wellness Walk
Thursday, February 2 from 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Winter is on its way out, but what does the groundhog say about it? Come enjoy a walk around Tifft, ending with a short presentation about Groundhog Day’s traditions and myths. $3 donation per person suggested. Pre-registration is encouraged. Please call 896-5200, ext. 338.

Frosty Fun Festival
Saturday, February 4 from 10 AM-2 PM

Celebrate winter in western New York and shake off your cabin fever! Drop in and join us for guided snowshoe* hikes, super fun indoor winter crafts, a snow animal sculpture contest (with prizes!), animal tracking and animal adaptations in winter hikes, snowflake investigation station, Frosty Fun Olympics, liquid nitrogen demonstrations and more! There will also be food and hot beverages available for purchase. Event will take place with or without snow! *Snowshoeing is weather permitting. Non-Members: $5. Buffalo Museum of Science Members Save 10%. Pre-registration is encouraged. Please call 896-5200, ext. 338.

Little Tykes Snowshoe Stroll
Monday, February 13 from 10-11 AM for Ages 3-5

Snowshoes aren’t just for the young at heart, so bring your little one to try out snowshoeing in our bear-claw youth snowshoes. Caregivers are welcome to give them a try too! Non-Members: $6 per child and adult, $3 additional children with the same adult. Buffalo Museum of Science Members Save 10%. Pre-registration required. Please call 896-5200, ext. 338.

Nature Nuts: Brrr! It’s Cold Outside
Wednesday, February 15 from 4-5 PM for Ages 6-8

Join us after school to have fun exploring while learning about the wonders of the natural world at Tifft Nature Preserve! Since this program will be held mostly outdoors, please dress appropriately for the weather. Non-Members: $6 per child and adult, $4 each additional child with same adult. Buffalo Museum of Science Members Save 10%. Pre-registration required. Please call 896-5200, ext. 338.

Starry Snowshoe Stroll*
Friday, February 17 from 7-8:30PM for Families (Kids ages 5 and up)

A star-filled sky and snow on the ground make a perfect setting for a snowshoe stroll. We will provide the snowshoes. *Snowshoeing is weather permitting. Program will take place with or without snow. Non-Members: $7. Buffalo Museum of Science Members Save 10%. Pre-registration required. Please call 896-5200, ext. 338.

WILD about Winter Discovery Camp
Tuesday, February 21-Thursday, February 23 from 9:30 AM – 3:30 PM for Ages 5-8

What do you think animals do in winter? What do you like to do? Exploration of nature in winter is full of surprises and lots of fun too. Daily snack provided. Please bring lunch in a reusable container. Non-Members: $100 per child. Buffalo Museum of Science Members Save 10%.Late pick-up: 3:45 – 5:00 PM at $5 per half hour, per day. Arrangements must be made at the time of pre-registration. Pre-registration required. Please call 896-5200, ext. 201. Registration Deadline: February 14

Family Snowshoe Hike*
Friday, February 24 from 7-8:30 PM for Families (Kids ages 5 and up)

Bring the family to stretch their legs and see what Tifft is like in the wintertime. We’ll end by having a warm drink in Tifft’s cabin. *Snowshoeing is weather permitting. Program will take place with or without snow. Non-Members: $7. Buffalo Museum of Science Members Save 10%. Pre-registration required. Please call 896-5200, ext. 338.

Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella comes to Artpark!

2012-01-28T20:13:00.000-05:00

Rodgers & Hammerstein's Cinderella will be at Artpark this summer, August 9-17, 2012!

Originally created for television as a star vehicle for Julie Andrews in 1957, its broadcast was seen by 100 million viewers and has since been adapted for the stage. Cinderella boasts all the trademarks of wonderful songs and lavish dance numbers associated with the classic works of the award-winning duo, Rodgers & Hammerstein, who are widely acknowledged as the all-time 'Kings of Broadway.'

Tickets go on sale March 16, 2012 at 10am. Visit the Artpark website for performance times and ticket price information.

Personally, I am very excited to hear of another great opportunity for families to enjoy the arts in WNY!

Kids Night at Wegmans!

2012-01-27T20:28:00.000-05:00

The Wegmans on NF Blvd in Amherst offers Kids Night every Wednesday from 5-7pm in the cafe. FREE food and FREE activities = FUN!

Wednesday, February 1:

Activity is Peek-a-Boo-Groundhog Craft. Kids get a FREE dessert!

Leave a comment below if a Wegmans near you offers these sort of events for kids and/or families! Be sure to leave the location!

Night Lights at the Gardens

2012-01-26T13:00:00.001-05:00

Love this event!

The interior of the Buffalo & Erie County Botanical Gardens will once again be illuminated with theatrical and interactive lighting over three-weeks in February.

Night Lights at the Gardens begins February 1 and takes place Wednesday through Saturday evenings on the following dates: Feb. 1-4; Feb. 8-11 and Feb. 15-18. Night Lights hours are 6-9pm and until 10pm on Friday and Saturday nights.

Admission is $10 for adults, $8 for Garden members, seniors (55+) and students (13+), $5 kids 3-12 and kids under 3 are free. Guest passes and coupons are not valid during this show. Tickets can be purchased online at www.buffalogardens.com or at the door.

You can read a great article (includes beautiful pictures) from Buffalo Rising if you need more information on Night Lights at the Gardens!

Mom Review and Giveaway: 2BME Firefighter App

2012-01-26T12:54:00.001-05:00

Congratulations to the 5 winners of the 2BME Studios Firefighter App! I have emailed each of you and need to hear back from you within 48 hours in order for you to receive the Firefighter App.
aj_olson21@
~~Pfal6135@~~ (did not reply within the allotted 48 hour time frame)
larchabald@
fuzzydolly@
Lindabonczyk@
Alternate winner: mbrint...@

Thanks to everyone who entered! (Winners were chosen using random.org.)

2BME Studios is an iOS App Developer based in Buffalo, NY whose mission is to provide high quality children’s apps that educate and entertain children about specific occupations. The 2BME product line is being developed with young children in mind, by providing children with an interactive tutorial that teaches them how to play and a classroom that re-enforces what they have learned.

When 2BME Studios contacted me about reviewing their Firefighter App I was excited to give it a try...ahem...I mean I was excited for my kids to give it a try. As a very new iPhone user my kids have yet to get their grimy hands on my phone so they were surprised when I invited them to "play" on my phone.

I started with the 5 year old. He began with the 2BME tutorial which explained the signs and motions (swipe, drag, tap) needed to go through the application.

Next, on to PLAY at the Fire Station. I was very, very impressed. A fireman took us on a tour of the fire station. He explained what happens at the station step by step. Beginning at the outside of the station, checking out the firetrucks, receiving an emergency call and responding to the call. During each step there were many opportunities for user interaction (including "driving" the fire truck to an emergency call!)

I don't want to give it all away but let me mention a couple of highlights. The user can slide the firefighter down the pole inside the station and then dress him in his fireman gear. Also, I love the exploration of all the things on the fire truck and the explanation of what the fire men do with those things. However, my favorite part is when the user can actually put out a fire!

There is a great option on this app called "classroom". Classroom is a fun way for the user to learn about fires and what to do when there is a fire. There are also multiple choice questions about the fire truck equipment that was introduced and explained during the PLAY at the fire station!

Real quickly - my 3 year old daughter really liked this app but needed quite a bit more guidance in navigating the swiping, dragging and tapping. (This has nothing to do with the application but more to do with the fact that she has never been allowed to touch my phone and had no idea what to do with it!) With a little bit of practice I am sure she would have become a pro!

I loved this app! I loved how interactive it was for the kids and how it was a learning experience for both of them. 2BME has done an amazing job thoroughly exploring what a firefighter does and making it fun for kids! We are so lucky to have businesses such as this in WNY! I can't wait to see what 2BME Studios comes out with next!

THE GIVEAWAY:

2BME Studios is offering to give 5 Fun 4 Kids readers the 2BME Firefighter App! Remember, this app is for the iPad, iPhone and iPod Touch. If you are interested in entering this giveaway, please leave your email address in the comment section at the bottom of this post. (I do not keep email addresses and all of them will be deleted at the end of this contest) OR send your email address to me @ fun4kidsinbuffalo (at) gmail (dot) com.

Contest ends January 25, 2012 at 10pm. Winners will be chosen using random.org

Disclosure: 2BME provided this app to me free of charge to facilitate this review.

Saturday Fun 1/28/2012

2012-01-26T05:46:00.003-05:00

Story Time with Madeline at Brighton Place Library in Tonawanda - 10:30am

Beaded Bracelet Workshop ($)

Beloved orphan and friend to many, Madeline will be at Brighton Place for Story time and an informal meet and greet. This dear sweet girl with the yellow hat has captured the hearts of so many through her many adventures and endearing spirit. Come down to Brighton Place and share in the excitement of Madeline! Registration is required. FREE

City of Tonawanda Winterfest (most events indoors) FREE

Meet Cat in the Hat at B is for Books in Orchard Park - 11am-3pm FREE

Kids can meet, hug and high-five the famous Cat, have their photo taken and enjoy some Seuss crafts and activities. FREE

Polar Plunge Golf Tournament at Adventure Landing Tonawanda location.

Join us for our annual Mini Golf Tournament! Tournament Details:
Begins at 10am 2-Round Tournament Great Prizes Only $5 Per Guest!

Winter Wonderland in the Woods at Reinstein Woods from 1-4pm

Events include: SPCA wildlife department presentations with live birds at 1:00, 2:00 and 3:00 PM; listen to winter nature stories at 1:45, 2:45 and 3:45 PM; Kids can make winter nature crafts, such as pinecone bird feeders, snowglobes and track pictures and much more! FREE

Build a Dinosaur (Build-a-Saurus) at Lowes Build and Grow from 10am-11am. Must pre-register. FREE

Made in America Winterfest FREE

SUNDAY, JANUARY 29th:

Clarence Winterfest at Clarence Town Park from noon-5pm FREE

Buffalo Soup-Fest ($ - but kids 10 and under free)

Winterfest 2012 in Orchard Park at Chestnut Ridge Park from 10am-4pm FREE

Do you want many of the month's FREE events delivered to your inbox? Contact me and send your email address to sign up for the Fun 4 Kids "Freevent" Newsletter. February's newsletter will arrive to your inbox on January 29, 2012

Beaded Bracelet Workshop

2012-01-25T20:03:00.000-05:00

I thought this looked like a fun opportunity for the older kids. Just $6 for a 2 hour class which includes all materials for a custom bracelet!

Beading Class and Workshop on Saturday, January 28, 2012 from 1-3pm at the Erie Canal Discovery Center, 24 Church St., Lockport

The Erie Canal Discovery Center is pleased to offer an educational program presented by Dorathy Gallo & Linda Van Buskirk of Beaded Finery. Participants will be taught basic beading techniques while gaining insight into more advanced design concepts. Students will also learn about the historic and artistic inspiration that contributes to the fine work that these local artisans produce. All the materials are provided to create a unique bracelet using beads selected by the students.

This program is open to the public for ages 12 and up. Space in this class is limited and reservations are strongly suggested. Call the Discovery Center at 439-0431 for more information.

Bella Kids Consignment Events of WNY!

2012-01-25T19:48:00.000-05:00

Consigning with Bella Kids Consignment Events of WNY is as easy as 1-2-3!
1. Register as a consignor @ www.wnybellakids.com
2. Hang 'em, Enter 'em, and Tag 'em your items using our online system.
3. Drop 'em off with us for our 4-day sale!
THEN sit back and wait for a BIG paycheck!!!!

***If you participate in other kids' consignment events in WNY, our online system allows you to use others' tags! NO retagging necessary to sell with us! So register today! Email us with any questions: info@wnybellakids.com

Winterfest at the Made in America Store

2012-01-25T09:20:00.001-05:00

Made in America Store will host Winterfest 2012 this Saturday, January 28th from 11am-4pm!

Events include performances by Ricky Lee, woods carvings by Matt Hannah, sledding (weather permitting) and Alpacas from Maple View Alpacas!

The Made in America store is located in Elma, NY. Get all the Winterfest details on the website.

Clarence Winterfest

2012-01-24T20:05:00.001-05:00

The 2012 Clarence Winterfest takes place this Sunday, January 29th from Noon to 5pm at the Clarence Town Park in Clarence, NY. (10405 Main Street, Clarence)

Ice Skating, food, sledding, hayrides, chili cookoff, petting zoo and more. More info call 407-2162 Clarence Youth Bureau or 631-3888 Clarence Chamber.

Get more details here! Thanks to Kristi and Sharon for the info!

Buffalo Soup-Fest

2012-01-24T11:53:00.001-05:00

Yum! The 2012 Buffalo Soup Fest is this SUNDAY, January 29th from 11am-8pm! We've never been but some of the soups look delicious!

As I'm browsing the Buffalo Soupfest website there are a few things I see that look fun for your kids. (Admission for kids 10 and under is FREE!)

Mr. No the Balloon Guy will be there (my favorite balloon artist!). Also, it looks as though Dora and Spongebob will be there for pictures.

Event takes place at the Millennium Hotel, from 11am-8pm. $5 admission for adults and kids under 10 are free. All soups can be purchased with “Soup Bucks” once you are at the event. All Soup Bucks are $1 each and samples are in 2oz and 4oz portions.

Honestly, I'm trying to imagine my family with 3 little ones 5 and under at this event. I'm picturing soup everywhere...

(Over)Night at the Museum - CSI Style! - Feb 4-5

2012-01-23T20:28:00.000-05:00

Pre-register by January 27, 2012!

The following from the Buffalo Museum of Science:

Experience the museum overnight with your family after the lights dim and the doors close. Work together with our security guards to solve a museum mystery and fall asleep in the museum's halls! Includes admission to CSI: The Experience. Click here to learn more or to register.

Winterfest 2012 Orchard Park, NY

2012-01-23T19:58:00.000-05:00

Great event! Winterfest in Orchard Park on Sunday, January 29th, 2012 from 10am-4pm. Read about all the fun by clicking on the flyer below:

Family Roller Skating Package

2012-01-23T06:08:00.002-05:00

Pay just $15 for a family roller-skating package at Spinners Rink! Including admission, skate rental, pizza, and soda for four (a $36 value) or give your adolescents something to Tweet about with $20 for admission and skate rental for four (14 and under) at Spinners Friday Tween Night (regularly $40). With a definitively danceable soundtrack and a family-friendly atmosphere, Spinners is sure to get more comments than the latest viral video.

Read the fine print and get the details here!

Spinners Rink is located in West seneca, NY

Saturday Fun 1/21/2012

2012-01-21T07:06:00.000-05:00

AC Moore: Fancy Nancy Design a Tiarra and Storytime 10am-noon for ages 3 and up. FREE Make it Take it (Amherst, Cheetowaga and Clarence locations)

Happy Feet at the Central Library at 1pm Ring of Knowledge Main Floor FREE

See other FREE activities at a library near you here!

Winter Trails Day Celebration at Tifft Nature Preserve from 9am until noon. FREE

FLURRIOUS in Delaware Park FREE

Pinkalicious Party at Monkey See, Monkey Do Children's Bookstore in Clarence, NY from 11 am - noon.

You'll be tickled pink with this adventure that's just right for kids trying new activities. Story reading, craft, and snack. Best suited for children ages 3 and up. Registration required. FREE

Family Film Festival at the Riviera Theatre at 11am. Cost: $2

Wizard of Oz exhibit opens at the Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, NY ($)

Get Squirrelly at Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve at 10:30am

Come celebrate Squirrel Appreciation Day! Through fun activities and crafts, learn about local squirrels and how they survive the long winter. For children ages 5 to 8. Materials fee = $2.00 per child; Friends of Reinstein members = $1.00 per child. Registration required; call 716-683-5959 to sign up. ($2)

Mothertime Marketplace Consignment Event

2012-01-20T10:41:00.000-05:00

Mothertime Marketplace Western New York's Largest Seasonal Children's Consignment Event!

Check out Mothertime Marketplace Spring 2012 sale dates:

Friday, March 16th 10am-7pm
Admission: $3.00/adult Kids are FREE!

Saturday, March 17th 10am-3pm
Admission: $2.00/adult Kids are FREE!

Saturday is our first annual KID'S DAY! Come join us for games and activities for your little ones and do some shopping too!

Sunday, March 18th 10am-1pm (50% off sale (most items))
FREE Admission!!

Come experience WNY's LARGEST seasonal children's consignment event this spring at the Hamburg Fairgrounds. Spacious shopping, room for strollers and children. Over 25,000 gently used name brand children's items priced to sell! Don't miss out on the deals and steals at Mothertime marketplace!

We are still accepting consignors, space is limited. Visit our website www.mothertimemarketplace.com to register today!!

Mom Review: Disney on Ice Treasure Trove

2012-01-19T13:01:00.001-05:00

Thanks to Feld Entertainment I was able to take my 2 oldest to Disney on Ice Treasure Trove last night. My kids have never been to an ice show before and it has literally been 20 years since I was at one!

The show was awesome! We were provided with tickets 3 rows back from the ice so we had a great view.

The show began with a guy and girl coming out to get the crowd "hyped". Honestly, what followed was 10 minutes of a pretty ridiculous pre-show warm-up with The Incredibles and a lot of other skaters dessed up in work out clothes. I'm guessing this is a typical type of thing that happens at these shows as it gives late-comers a chance to get settled, take the kids to the bathroom once more, spend more money on over-priced concessions, etc.

Finally, the "real" show begins. I'm not going to get into specifics about the show because I don't want to spoil it for you if you're going this week. I mean, come on, it's Disney, right? It's going to be an incredible show!

From a mom's perspective, my 2 concerns for my 5 year old and 3 year old were: 1. The "scary" factor and 2. The noise factor

Besides a pop from a firecracker in the first half of the show (which scared me more than it scared the kids) and 2-3 cannon "fires" the noise factor was not a factor. (Really, the canon fire was so quiet. It was more just the sound of the ball hitting the ice.)

As far as the "scary" factor, yes there were 2-3 very intense (not really scary) moments. During the Peter Pan/Captain Hook segment the fight is pretty intense. My 5 year old's eyes were bulging and the 3 year old had both of her hands over her mouth. After the intermission Disney has a Lion King segment (which was SO well done, by the way!) It was also quite intense and I think my kids found some of the costumes/masks to be a little scary looking (my son has a weird thing about people in masks).

The great thing about the "intense" parts of the show is that they don't last long and they are always followed by a light-hearted, calm part of the show.

Now, for some "non-show" information and advice. I'm probably not supposed to say this but bring your own drinks and snacks if you want to avoid spending $15 on a light-up cup with a slushie in it. $15!! Be prepared, concession people are walking around with all sorts of cool, light-up toys and other Disney "stuff". These range in price, the light-up toy I asked about was $22. $22!

I think because I haven't been to a show like this in years I was definitely having sticker shock! I mean, come on, $15 for a program about the show?? Personally, I would rather spend more money on a close parking spot as we were almost frozen with cold from walking up to the First Niagara Center both before and after the show.

Now I understand why the most popular question I was asked about this show is "Where can I get a discount code?" Parents want to have a little money to buy something special for the kids at events like this!

On the drive home after the show I asked the kids to each tell me their favorite part of the show. (My favorite part was flying Tinkerbell and her fairy wand/dust!) My 3 year old daughter's favorite part was the crocodile during the Peter Pan/Captain Hook and my 5 year old was all about the pirate "battle"! Great show - we highly recommend it!

Were you at Disney on Ice last night? Are you going to the show? Leave a comment and let us know how the kids like it!

Disclaimer: We left a few minutes before the end of the show...it was a school night! So, I'm sure we must have missed the absolute best grand finale!

The Wizard of Oz Exhibit Opening at Strong National Museum of Play

2012-01-17T20:37:00.001-05:00

This brings back memories! When I was a child and the Wizard of Oz came on TV, this was about the only time of year my mom would let my brother and I stay up late. We would lay on the floor in our basement and always, always we would fall asleep watching The Wizard of Oz!

The Wizard of Oz exhibit is opening the weekend of January 21-22, 2012 at Strong National Museum of Play in Rochester, NY.

Great description sent to me from the Museum of Play:

In the exhibit, journey from the Gale Farm to Oz and explore Munchkinland, the Crossroads, the Witch’s Castle, and Emerald City. Visit Professor Marvel’s wagon. Create your own tornado in Dorothy’s bedroom. Explore vibrant munchkin houses and learn more about Dorothy's friends, Scarecrow, Tin Man, and Cowardly Lion. Enter Emerald City and create a “Horse of a Different Color" and more!

ETA: Strong National Museum of Play is in Rochester, NY! our family highly recommends visiting - it is worth the drive! Read my short Mom Review here.

FLURRIOUS 2012 (Delaware Park)

2012-01-16T23:54:00.004-05:00

ETA: With the lack of snow in Buffalo so far, there appear to be a few changes in the FLURRIOUS schedule. I would suggest you check out the blog link below or the Olmstead Flurrious Facebook page for updated information.

Great event! I love what Buffalo has to offer in the winter!

Information provided by the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy:

FLURRIOUS!, Western New York’s park-centered winter festival returns for its second year at Buffalo’s Delaware Park on Saturday, January 21st, 2012! FLURRIOUS! is a FREE admission outdoor event, presented by the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Conservancy that promises to be fun-filled and action packed. The day’s events begin at 9:00am with the “Flurrious Forecast” fun run and continue until 10:00pm!

Visit the Buffalo Olmsted Parks Blog for additional details!

FREE: Chinese New Year Celebration at Monkey See Monkey Do

2012-01-16T19:58:00.002-05:00

Monkey See Monkey Do Children's Bookstore offers this fun, FREE event on Monday, January 23rd!

Chinese New Year Celebration from 10:30 - 11:30am!

Introduce the customs of Chinese New Year to the youngest readers: shopping for fresh flowers, special New Year's dinner, receiving red envelopes from Grandma and Grandpa, and watching the spectacular Chinese New Year's parade! Story reading, craft, and snack.

Registration required to ensure they have enough materials for all children.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day January 16th, 2012

2012-01-16T07:41:00.000-05:00

Tonawanda Winterfest - a weekend event with a couple of FREE things happening on Monday the 16th.

History Center of Niagara County event (registration required/$10 per child) Children ages 7-12 are invited to celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day at the History Center of Niagara County on Monday, January 16, 2012 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

FREE admission to the Buffalo Museum of Science

TOPS Junior Chef Winter Camp West Seneca locations. 10am-1pm for $25 per child. Please register in advance.

ONE COOL FRIEND at Monkey See, Monkey Do in Clarence, NY from 10:30am-noon for ages 5 and up ($12 per child) Register in advance.

If you use good manners, can you get a penguin as a pet? Join us for a morning of winter fun with penguins; reading just-released, One Cool Friend. Ages 5 and up. 20% discount on this book purchase.

The Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural Site is offering half price admission throughout the entire long weekend. Visit the TR Site for detailed information.

FREE classes and programs at the JCC/Getzville location.

ETA: Special events at Explore and More Children's Museum. OPEN 10-5 for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day: Kids on the Block Puppet Show 11 a.m.; puppet making 12 - 3 p.m

Itty Bitty Animal Yoga at the Buffalo Zoo

2012-01-15T22:44:00.001-05:00

Thanks to the Buffalo Zoo for sending the following information!

Itty Bitty Animal Yoga

Let's move with the animals! During this eight-week session, we will be joined by special guest, Bekah Starr, a yoga instructor with Sproutin' Yoga, to let your children's imaginations and bodies run wild! Through interactive games, animal encounters, animated postures and basic yoga principles, we will enjoy a unique opportunity to foster creativity, focus and movement while learning more about animals at the Buffalo Zoo.

Sessions begin on March 2 and continue through April 27. Class times are 10:15 a.m. - 11:15 a.m. for children ages 9-17 months and 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. for children ages 18-23 months. The price is: $80.00 per adult/child pair. Discounts will be given for a second child in the same age group. To register or receive more information, please call (716) 995-6128 or register here in advance.

Bella Kids Spring Consignment Event

2012-01-15T15:13:00.004-05:00

The Bella Kids Spring Consignment Event has announced their 4-day fun and bargain-filled schedule taking place in the stylish retail location of Premier Place Plaza @ 7980 Transit Road, Williamsville.

Thursday, March 29: VIP PRIVATE PREVIEW SALE, HOURS 4-8PM
4-6pm for volunteers
6-8pm for consignors and vendors

Friday, March 30: PUBLIC SALE, HOURS 10AM -8PM
***Free goody bags for the first 50 shoppers.

Saturday, March 31: BELLA KIDS FUN DAY & PUBLIC SALE, HOURS 10AM - 8PM
Fun Day Events include Face painting, arts/crafts table, Bringing books to life, etc. during 11am-4pm

Sunday, April 1: 50% OFF PUBLIC SALE, HOURS 11AM - 5PM
*Most items will be discounted at 50% off.

Looking to earn extra $$$ in 2012? Consign your gently used, brand name baby to tween clothing, toys, and gear with Bella Kids Consignment Events of WNY. Earn up to 75% sales profits which adds up to be a big paycheck after their 4-day sale. Register @ www.wnybellakids.com!

Want Bella Kids to do the work? Have baby to tween items but no time? Bella Kids offers a consignor option where they tag, enter, and hang your items... just email them: info@wnybellakids.com for details!

Saturday Fun 1/14/2012

2012-01-13T20:43:00.000-05:00

Pottery Barn Kids event for Adults and Kids. "Our experts will help you organize the clutter with stylish storage for nurseries, playrooms and bedrooms. Plus, kids can join in the fun with a FREE crafting activity that will help keep treasured mementos organized." (FREE)

Meet Tacky the Penguin at B is for Books in Orchard Park, NY. Event begins goes from 10am-2pm. (FREE)

Tonawanda Winterfest (FREE)

TOPS mini cooking class. Best to register in advance. Get the details here. ($5)

Juggling and Balloon Magic Children's Event at Brighton Place Library at 10:30am.

Come down to Brighton Place with your children and share in the magic and wonders of Gravitational Bull as they share their talent(s) in the art of juggling and balloon creations. This program is free and open to the public. Ideal for ages 4-10 years old. Registration is required. (FREE)

Family Fitness Extravaganza at the Ellicott-Masten YMCA from 9am-3pm. 585 William Street, Buffalo, NY 14206

The Ellicott-Masten Family YMCA wants to help you and your family live healthier in 2012! The entire family will enjoy a free day of classes, including Gospel Aerobics, Zumba®, Hip-Hop, Kickboxing, Boot Camp, Open Swim and much more! There will even be great prizes given out! For more information and a complete schedule of activities please call the branch at 845-5440 or stop on down! (FREE)

The Theodore Roosevelt Inaugural Site is offering half price admission Saturday, Sunday and Monday. Get more details at the TR site.

FREE classes and programs at the JCC/Getzville location!

Family Film Festival at the Riviera Theatre - cost $2. Showing Puss in Boots at 11am.

SUNDAY: FREE Family Film Series at Shea's.

MLK Jr. Day on Monday, January 16th, 2012. View all events here! Some are FREE!

Theatre of Youth presents Ben Franklin's Apprentice

2012-01-13T19:40:00.001-05:00

Thanks to the Theatre of Youth for sending along this information!

Theatre of Youth, Buffalo's only professional theatre company devoted to children and families, will kick off the New Year with BEN FRANKLIN'S APPRENTICE opening on Friday, February 3, 2012 at 7:00 pm. Opening night will also feature an interactive demonstration of electricity, sponsored by the New York State Power Authority, starting at 6:00 pm.

BEN FRANKLIN'S APPRENTICE continues Saturdays and Sundays at 2:00 pm through February 12, 2012. Tickets can be purchased by calling 716.884.4400 x 304 or by visiting www.theatreofyouth.org. This production is sponsored by Independent Health and National Fuel and is recommended for ages 9 and up.

Theatre of Youth (TOY) ticket prices are $25 or $23 per person and can be purchased online at www.theatreofyouth.org or by calling TOY's box office at 884-4400 x 304. All performances take place live on the Time Warner Cable Family Stage at the historic Allendale Theatre, 203 Allen Street, Buffalo, NY14201. Mini-season subscriptions, group rates and gift certificates are also available.

FREE Classes and Programs at the JCC - Getzville (1/15-1/20)

2012-01-11T21:13:00.002-05:00

Visit the Jewish Community Center/Getzville location between January 15-January 20th, 2012 for their grand re-opening celebration!

There are many great classes and programs going on for both adults and kids. For example, I see Bounce Houses, Face Painting, Kids Water Games, Kids Art Area, KidFit and more! You can view the complete schedule at this JCC link.

Free Family Film Series at Shea's Performing Arts Center

2012-01-11T13:19:00.003-05:00

I almost forgot about this! And this month's film looks interesting! Anyone up for a silent film from the 1920's?

Here are the details from Buffalo Place:

The Free Family Film Series at Shea’s continues on Sunday, January 15, at 2:00 p.m. (doors open at 1:00 p.m.) with a free screening of the 1926 Silent Film The Black Pirate starring Douglas Fairbanks! House Organist Bruce Woody will perform the score on the restored Wurlitzer Organ. Douglas Fairbanks Sr. stars in this exciting, action-packed swashbuckling pirate adventure as a young man seeking revenge on a band of pirates after they ransacked and destroyed his ship, killing his father. In trying to achieve his goal, he tricks the pirates into thinking he wants to join their band. Will this ruse work?

FREE tickets are available NOW at the Shea's Box Office and at Wegmans Customer Service Desks in Erie and Niagara Counties.

EXPIRED $7 for a $14 Haircut from Kids Cuts R Fun in Williamsville

2012-01-10T20:14:00.003-05:00

Ahh, this deal from Seize the Deal has brought back some memories. Kids Cuts R Fun gave my little Kate her first haircut! I have the lock of hair saved inside the sweet card they gave me when it was over.

So, this is a great deal. You can get a haircut from Kids Cuts R Fun (Williamsville location only) for just $7!

Here are the details:

Expires Apr. 10, 2012 No purchase limit. By appointment only. Not valid on Saturdays. No cash value; no cash/credit back. Not valid with any other offer. Must use entire voucher in same .

This post may contain affiliate links. Thank you for using them.

EXPIRED Martin's Fantasy Island Season Pass Holiday Sale - EXTENDED!

2012-01-10T19:59:00.003-05:00

The Martin's Fantasy Island Season Pass Holiday Sale has been extended until January 13th, 2012! We are not season pass holders but we greatly enjoyed our visit to Martin's Fantasy Island last summer!

Here is a summary of the prices here but please visit their website to see additional details as far as other benefits that will come with a season pass:

Family of 4 Season Pass:
$185 (+ $4.07 tax = $189.07)
(regular 2012 rate will be $210 + tax)

Additional Persons:
(must be purchased at the same time as Family Pass)
$46.25 ea (+ $1.02 tax = $47.27)
(regular 2012 rate will be $52.50 + tax)

Individual:
$61.65 (+ $1.37 tax = $63.02)
(regular 2012 rate will be $70 + tax)

Little Rumpkins Diaper Service

2012-01-10T10:46:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Andrea from Little Rumpkins Diaper Service for sending this information!

Most people would agree that cloth diapers are better for the enviroment as they keep close to 2 tons of waste out of our landfills, and they are better for our babies since they don't contain any harmful chemicals. What a lot of people may not know is that potty training a cloth diapered baby tends to be quicker and done successfully at a younger age than their peers who wear disposables. What comes as a surprise to many is how convenient cloth diapering is, especially when you use a diaper service.

Little Rumpkins Diaper Service makes weekly deliveries/pick-ups of cloth diapers right to your door. You simply leave your laundry bag of dirty diapers ouside your door and they are replaced with clean ones. Keep from being tied up doing extra loads of laundry each week, troubleshooting with different detergents, or battling stink issues. LRDS washes their diapers in a commercial laundry facility so you can be confident they are being cleaned by professionals that have been trained to properly care for this type of product. We also offer diaper cover rentals, have a referral program, and sell gift certificates!

Find Little Rumpkins Diaper Service on Facebook!

Tonawanda Winterfest 2012 / January 12-16

2012-01-09T20:18:00.000-05:00

Really, this "no-snow thing" is getting unbelievable! Snow or not the Tonawanda Winterfest is a fun, free event! Don't miss it!

This is a great weekend out in Tonawanda. Most likely the snowmobiles will not be operating as I read they need at least 10 inches of snow to run. But most of these events take place inside so there are plenty of fun things to do. Here are just a few of the great activities going on: (You can get the Winterfest brochure with specific details on times and places here)

Saturday, January 14th, 2012

• Figure skating show from 3 to 4 p.m., Lincoln Arena

• Outdoor family activities, noon to 4 p.m., including hayrides through Lincoln Park and, in a heated tent, Buffalo Figure Skating Club’s baked good sale/Chinese auction, the Winterfest Video Lounge and airbrushed tattoos.

• Bonfire at 6:15 p.m.; fireworks at 6:30 p.m.

• Free recreational skate from 7 to 9:30 p.m.

Sunday, January 15th, 2012

• Outdoor family fun activities from 1 to 5 p.m., Lincoln Arena, including hayrides through Lincoln Park, Skating Club Chinese auction 1 to 3 p.m., a free family skate/carnival/music from 1 to 3, airbrushed tattoos, balloons, magic show at 2 p.m.

• Recreational skate from 6:30 to 9 p.m.

• Bonfire, fireworks and concert (featuring Sound Proof) from 6:30 to 9 p.m.

• FREE recreational swim featuring a disc jockey from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Aquatic & Fitness Center

• Model Boat demonstration noon to 4 p.m., Aquatic & Fitness Center

Monday, January 16th, 2011

• Winterfest “Police” free skate, 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.

• Free recreational skate, 3:45 to 5:15 p.m.

* Parent/Child Mini Golf tournament at the Paddock Golf Dome. Begins 6:30pm ($)

Events on January 12 and 13 are adult events (for the most part) which is why I have not listed them in this post.

The History Center of Niagara County- Special Event on January 16th, 2012!

2012-01-08T21:03:00.000-05:00

Another great opportunity for Martin Luther King, Jr. Day on January 16th, 2012! Pre-registration is necessary! (This looks like it would be a fun, inexpensive way to spend a few hours!)

Children ages 7-12 are invited to celebrate Martin Luther King, Jr. Day at the History Center of Niagara County on Monday, January 16, 2012 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.

This information from The History Center of Niagara's Facebook page:

Unsung Heroes: The History of African-Americans in the United States Military will explore the lives of men and women who have served in the armed forces for over two hundred years but have not been recognized for their service. The contributions of these service people made a difference in the outcome of several wars including the Civil War and World War II. The children will learn about the Tuskegee Airmen and make a foam plane to take home. They will also find out how music was changed by a black military musician and learn about the contributions of the Buffalo Soldiers, all black units that served in the late 19th century. A snack will be provided at noon time.

The cost of the program is $10.00 per child. Reservations are required. Parents are encouraged to leave their children for the duration of the program. Please call or email the History Center at 716-434-7433 or history11@verizon.net for reservations and more information.

Kindergarten Chronicles - 10

2012-01-08T19:50:00.000-05:00

Welcome to a "chronicle" of my trip through Kindergarten from a mothers perspective. This is my first time on this trip. If it's the first time for you, I hope you will join me (even if you're an old pro, please read along!) Go here if you missed Kindergarten Chronicles 1-9.

This has been a tough week, let me tell you! For all you veterans, is the week back to school after a long break always like this?

Schedule. Exactly. The schedule is back! If you read the last Kindergarten Chronicles you read about how much I was enjoying the lack of a schedule. But Tuesday this week brought us back to the norm. Up at 6:30am, waiting for the bus by 7:15am, getting the little girls down for naps by 12:30 so we can hustle out the door to pick up the boy by 3pm.

Sleep, or lack of sleep. Our son was pretty tired this week. Every parent knows the signs of tiredness in their children. The boy showed all the signs every single day this week. Throw in a couple mornings of the 15 month old waking at 4:30am and you've also thrown a tired momma into the mix. By the end of the week, this tired momma went and left her double stroller in the parking lot of the Eastern Hills Mall. Thankfully, no children were inside of it! (And a very kind passerby took it to the security office where I went and picked it up that evening)

Half Birthdays? This month is "half" birthday celebrations in the child's Kindergarten class. So each day this week the class was celebrating a birthday of one student whose birthday falls during the summer (non-school) time. Great idea...but I think the boy has been on a continual sugar high since Christmas!

So, here we go...the week ahead is going to be a great week!

FREE Admission to the Buffalo Museum of Science

2012-01-07T21:07:00.003-05:00

Great opportunity here - save the date!

The Buffalo Museum of Science is offering FREE general admission on January 16, 2012. The museum will be open from 10am to 4pm with special activities offered from 11am to 2pm.

We haven't been to the Buffalo Museum of Science in about 4 years! Since it is a holiday from school I think we're going to load everyone up and go this year.

Is it pretty crazy over there? I'm guessing it is best to arrive as close to opening as possible? Leave a comment with your experience and advice!

Saturday Fun 1/7/2012

2012-01-06T23:59:00.001-05:00

Here's my "short list" for Saturday, January 7, 2012!

Make a Savings Shed at the Home Depot Kids Workshop from 9am-noon (FREE)

RESCHEDULED to JANUARY 21st!! (Will there be snow for this event?) Winter Trail Days Celebration at Tifft Nature Preserve from 10am-1pm (Suggested to pre-register although not required)

Winter Trails® was developed 15 years ago to promote snowshoeing and, historically, has been organized in conjunction with the American Hiking Society to get people out on snow-covered trails in the winter. Come take a mini-snowshoe hike on Tifft’s trails and experience an easy and fun winter activity! Rentals will also be available at a reduced fee for those wishing to snowshoe longer on their own. Hot drinks and snacks will also be available for purchase. *Snowshoeing is weather permitting. FREE. Pre-registration highly encouraged. Please call 825-6397 to register or for more information. (FREE)

Check out what's going on at a library near you! (FREE)

Buffalo Zoo "Zooper Saturday Event" ($)

Come in out of the cold, and warm up with your favorite animal friends in the Reptile House and M&T Bank Rainforest Falls exhibit! Learn all there is to know about these exotic species from our keeper talks, feedings, enrichment activities and much more! This event is free with Zoo admission and will run from 11:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m. For more information, please call (716) 995-6133.

Michael's Make-it-Take-it Event from 1-3pm for ages 3 and up. Make a yarn backpack buddy (While supplies last) FREE

Traveling Touch Tank from the Aquarium of Niagara at Toddletown and More

2012-01-05T21:05:00.003-05:00

The traveling touch tank from the Aquarium of Niagara will once again make a stop at Toddletown and More in Depew, NY.

The program is January 13, 2012 and begins at 1pm. Admission is $8 per child and includes unlimited play and the Touch Tank. There will be a presentation at 1:00 and 1:30 so that it is not overwhelmingly crowded looking at the animials. People do not need to call ahead... just come. The Touch Tank will be in one of the classrooms so that children can easily go in and out.

Thank you Yolanda for sending me this information!

TOPS Cooking School

2012-01-05T13:02:00.000-05:00

Recently, a reader reminded me about this fun program for kids (little and big!) Since it's been awhile since I last posted about TOPS cooking schools I thought it might be good to put the information out one more time!

Keep in mind, TOPS cooking schools are only offered at the following locations:
3980 Maple Road, Amherst, NY 14226 AND 355 Orchard Park Rd. West Seneca, NY 14224

There are several class options available (pre-registration is recommended at least 5 days in advance):

1. Mini Classes for Kids is a half hour class for kids of all ages. Cost is $5. Visit the TOPS cooking class schedule for when these classes are offered and what your child will be cooking.

2. Little Chefs ages 3-6 (with a parent) is a one and one half hour class. Cost is $13. (one parent is allowed with the child at no extra cost - for additional adults a $5 fee is charged) Visit the TOPS cooking class schedule for when these classes are offered and what your child will be cooking.

3. Junior Chefs ages 7-10 is a 2 hour class - children are encouraged to attend without a parent. Cost is $15. Visit the TOPS cooking class schedule for when these classes are offered and what your child will be cooking.

4. Aspiring Chefs ages 11 and up is a 2 hour class. Cost is $18. Visit the TOPS cooking class schedule for when these classes are offered and what your child will be cooking.

5. Cooking Classes for Home Schooled Children at the West Seneca location only. Visit the TOPS cooking class schedule for when these classes are offered and what your child will be cooking.

Wegmans offers Kids in the Kitchen which is a somewhat similar program. Visit this link for Wegmans Kids in the Kitchen information.

Have your children participated in either of these cooking schools? Leave a comment and let us know if it was a fun experience!

EXPIRED!! Two All Day Passes to Page's Paradise Island for just $10!

2012-01-05T08:55:00.003-05:00

This Page's Paradise Island deal keeps popping up but it's worth mentioning again now that winter has hit Buffalo! Also, this can be used during February winter break!

Here are the details:

This deal comes as ONE VOUCHER VALID FOR TWO ALL-DAY PASSES FOR UNLIMITED MINI GOLF, SWIMMING AND ROCK CLIMBING AT PAGE’S PARADISE ISLAND.

There are a limited quantity available so get it now if you think it's something your kids would enjoy. Expires 2/26/2012. Please read the rest of the fine print.

This post contains affiliate links. Thank you for using them.

$10 off coupon at Classic Lanes Bowling

2012-01-03T20:45:00.003-05:00

After a couple of trips to the bowling alley over Christmas break, I'm afraid we have our son hooked on bowling. (Bowling on the Wii is just not the same!)

In light of this, I was happy to find a $10 off $20 coupon to Classic Lanes Bowling which is in the Ken/Ton area.

In order to receive the coupon you must sign up for their monthly e-newsletter. After you sign up you will receive a confirmation email, click on the link in the email to confirm your address and then you will receive your coupon. (ETA: coupon comes to your email inbox not by "snail mail")

If you have bowled much at all, you know that after you pay for 1 game plus shoe rental you have spent about $5-6 per person. So for a family of 4 this coupon will make for a relatively inexpensive outing.

I should clarify...for OUR family of 5 (which includes a 5 year old and a 3 year old and 15 month old) 1 game of bowling is going to take about an hour :) An hour for this family of five is considered an "outing"!

ETA: I should add you must use this coupon within 30 days of receiving it. So, you may want to keep this in mind as an idea of something to do over Winter Break or even Spring Break!

UPDATED: Friendly's Cones for Kids Campaign

2012-01-03T08:10:00.006-05:00

The following is the corrected, updated information on Friendly's Cones for Kids Campaign:

Thanks to Aleica from the Easter Seals NY for sending me the correct info!

Thank you for mentioning our Friendly's Cones for Kids Campaign, however the information on your page is incorrect. For the Friendly's Restaurant locations in Western New York, each restaurant guest who makes a $5 donation to Easter Seals New York will receive a coupon book redeemable for three kid’s meals or Happy Ending® Sundaes, plus a $5 off $25 purchase coupon. Cones for Kids is happening from Jan. 16 to Feb. 26.

Applebee's BookWorm Club

2012-01-02T20:17:00.000-05:00

This has probably been around for awhile but I just spotted the card for the first time at my local library last week.

Applebee's Bookworm Club:

This reading-focused reward program encourages students ages 10 or younger at school or the library to read at least 10 books that they record on their “Bookworm Club” record card.

Once a student completes all 10 books they will earn a free kid’s meal at Applebee’s (when accompanied by an adult making a purchase).

From what I can tell, you can only get the Bookworm Club record cards at your local library or at your school.

Have you seen these cards at your local library? Leave a comment and let us know!

Boulevard Buddies FREE January Meeting

2012-01-02T13:20:00.001-05:00

This is really a fun time and it is FREE! We visited a Boulevard Buddies meeting for the first time last summer and the kids had a blast!

Magical New Year! Tuesday, January 10th at 10:30am in the Food Court

Friends from Monkey See, Monkey Do Book Store will read Dora & Elmo magic-themed stories. A real magician will delight us with magic tricks and we'll make our own wizard wands!

R.S.V.P. by Fri., Jan. 6th by calling Sue at 834-5192

FREE Open Gym January 3-4, 2012

2012-01-01T21:27:00.000-05:00

I just caught this story from the Buffalo News yesterday!

Niagara Fall's Youth Bureau is offering a free open gym program at the LaSalle Facility, 9501 Colvin Blvd., to keep city youth on the move during the holidays.

A program of activities for those age 5 to 12 and 13 to 18 will be offered Jan. 3 and 4.

Visit the Buffalo News for the article here.

Kindergarten Chronicles - 9

2012-01-01T21:07:00.003-05:00

Tifft Nature Preserve January Events

2012-01-01T20:52:00.000-05:00

Thanks to Lauren for sending this information over to us!

Winter Trails Day Celebration* (FREE event)
Saturday, January 7 from 10AM-1PM
Ages 2 and older

Winter Trails® was developed 15 years ago to promote snowshoeing and, historically, has been organized in conjunction with the American Hiking Society to get people out on snow-covered trails in the winter. Come take a mini-snowshoe hike on Tifft’s trails and experience an easy and fun winter activity! Rentals will also be available at a reduced fee for those wishing to snowshoe longer on their own. Hot drinks and snacks will also be available for purchase. *Snowshoeing is weather permitting. FREE. Pre-registration highly encouraged. Please call 825-6397 to register or for more information.

Nature Nuts: Snowshoe Strut
Wednesday, January 11 from 4-5PM
Ages 6-8

Join us after school to have fun exploring while learning about the wonders of the natural world at Tifft Nature Preserve! Since this program will be held mostly outdoors, please dress appropriately for the weather. Non-Members: $6 per child and adult, $4 each additional child with same adult. Buffalo Museum of Science Members Save 10%. Pre-registration required. Please call 896-5200, ext. 338.

Tracks in the Snow: Animal Investigation Tour- A Friends of Tifft Event
Sunday, January 15 from 2-4PM

Join Friends of Tifft as we explore the trails during a winter investigation of animal tracks and evidence. Look for signs of active winter natives and maybe even see them up close! Snowshoe rentals will be available for an additional $2 fee paid onsite, weather permitting. $3 per person; $10 maximum per family. Free for FOT members.

Winter Whispers*
Monday, January 16 from 10:30 AM –12:00 PM
Families (Kids ages 5 and up)

Winter is a time for solitude and relaxation for most, but nature always has something to say. Enjoy a morning of snowshoeing and listening to the whispers of Tifft on a winter’s day. Snowshoes will be provided. *Snowshoeing is weather permitting. Non-Members: $7. Buffalo Museum of Science Members Save 10%. Pre-registration required. Please call 896-5200, ext. 338.

Family Snowshoe Hike*
Saturday, January 21 from 1-2:30PM
Families (Kids ages 5 and up)

Bring the family to stretch their legs and see what Tifft is like in the wintertime. We’ll end by having a warm drink in Tifft’s cabin. *Snowshoeing is weather permitting. Non-Members: $7. Buffalo Museum of Science Members Save 10%. Pre-registration required. Please call 896-5200, ext. 338.

Little Tykes Snowshoe Stroll
Monday, January 23 from 10-11 AM
Ages 3-5

Snowshoes aren’t just for the young at heart, so bring your little one to try out snowshoeing in our bear-claw youth snowshoes. Caregivers are welcome to give them a try too! Non-Members: $6 per child and adult, $3 additional children with the same adult. Buffalo Museum of Science Members Save 10%. Pre-registration required. Please call 896-5200, ext. 338.

New Years Eve 2011 Family Friendly Events

2011-12-30T20:03:00.001-05:00

First Night Buffalo

Quick Summary: The annual holiday family tradition is celebrating its 23rd year in downtown Buffalo with activities for all ages to ring in the New Year, including rides and amusements, a storybook forest, comedy, music, magic, exotic reptiles, the grand finale balloon drop and more. Tickets are $8 and available at all area Wegmans locations. (Children 2 and under are free) Tickets are also available at the door for $10.

New Years on the Canal/Gateway Harbor

Quick Summary: Activities for the family start at 6pm with 2 alcohol free kid zones. Kid Zones are open from 6pm-9pm with $5 pre-sale "buttons" on sale now (mom and dad are free)

New Year's Eve Teen Night at Adventure Landing

Quick Summary: $10 for 3.5 hours includes 25 tokens and other activities

Middle School New Year's Party at the Amherst Museum on December 30th!

Quick Summary: Doors will open at 6:30 and the party starts at 7:00 to 10:00. There will be huge inflatable slides, obstacle courses, a photo booth, food, great prizes, thumping sound system, video, light shows and special guest DJ Tony Mamaluke from KISS 98.5! Ticket is $20

Leave a comment if you would like to see a New Year's Eve event you know about included in this post!

EXPIRED!! 4 Colden Tubing Tickets for just $30!

2011-12-30T06:21:00.006-05:00

LOVE when these tubing deals start coming around! I *hope* we see one soon from Polar Wave in Batavia!

From Get My Perks - 4 Colden Tubing Tickets for just $30!

FINE PRINT: (please note expiration and age requirements)

VALID FOR 4 COLDEN TUBING TICKETS; No cash back; No cash value; Limit one may be purchased per person; Not valid with other vouchers, specials, coupons or discounts; One voucher per visit; Redeem at Colden Tubing; All 4 Tickets must be used on the same day; Must be 7 years of age or older and a minimum of 42 inches to participate; Voucher valid Fridays 5pm-9pm, Weekends and Holidays 2 hours from time of admission; Hours: Fri 5pm-9pm, Sat 10am-9pm, Sun 10am-6pm; Hours subject to weather, call ahead for details; Expires 2/26/12

Disclosure: This post contains referral links - thank you for clicking through them.

FREE Dental Services: Give Kids a Smile Day

2011-12-28T21:53:00.004-05:00

I wanted to give you a heads up on this! You must schedule an appointment for this service.

Give Kids A Smile Day at the University at Buffalo School of Dental Medicine – Squire Hall. This event is held Friday, February 3rd, 2012 from 8:30am-3:30pm and it is for children ages 1-18 who do not have access to dental care.

Give Kids a Smile is a ONE DAY national event where children without dental insurance are able to receive FREE dental services!

Services Offered:
Dental Exams
Cleanings
Fluoride treatment
Fillings
X-Rays (if needed)
Sealants
Extractions
Orthodontic Consultation

For more information and to schedule an appointment for your child please contact: (716) 861-3593 or (716) 829-3717

The Book Giveaway Winner is...

2011-12-28T20:26:00.002-05:00

The randomly selected winner of the Money Saving Mom's Budget by Crystal Payne is #153 (out of 164 comments!)

heather.d.....@

Heather - please check your inbox (and your spam) for further instructions. You have 48 hours to respond or else the book will go to the next person that random.org chooses!

Thank you to everyone who entered and thanks to all of you for reading and supporting my blog! Happy New Year!

EXPIRED! Beginner Ski/Snowboard Package from Kissing Bridge

2011-12-28T06:24:00.003-05:00

Here's a fun deal for you! FYI, this can be used for ages 9 and up.

Beginner Ski/Snowboard Package for just $30 at Kissing Bridge!

Get my Perks offers this $60 package for just $30! Valid for Beginner Ski/Snowboard Package ONLY (one hour group lesson, beginner lift pass and rental equipment – $60 value); No cash back; No cash value; Not valid with other offers, specials, coupons or discounts; Redeem at Kissing Bridge Central Ticket Counter; Ages 9 and up; Expires 2/26/2012

Get My Perks says they have Limited Quantity Available on this special deal!

Disclaimer: The above post contains referral links - thank you for using them.

EXPIRED! $15 for $30 to Spend at Niagara Climbing Center

2011-12-26T19:41:00.004-05:00

Another idea of something to check out over the holiday break! We've never been but I have heard several great reviews of the Niagara Climbing Center. (I've also heard it's a fun place to have a birthday party!)

Here are the details from Seize the Deal:

Purchase limit 2 per person. May purchase up to five deals as gifts. Must be 13 or older to work the ropes. No cash value; no cash/credit back. Not valid with any other offer. Must use entire voucher in same visit. Expires Mar. 23, 2012

Other information about Niagara Climbing Center:

WNY's only indoor climbing facility
Extended holiday hours: Dec. 26 - 29, 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.
No experience necessary! Any age can climb!
Climbing walls for all skill levels
Over 6,000 sq. ft. of climbing terrain and 40 top-rope stations
Roofs, bulges and top-outs that help to develop skills needed on real rock
Adults rates starting at just $15 for an unlimited all-day pass, lesson and harness

Fun 4 Kids over Christmas Break

2011-12-25T08:33:00.008-05:00

Here are a few, special events happening December 26-30, 2011:

*Special events at the Herschell Carrousel Factory Museum the 26th-30th. Open from noon-4pm - cost is $5 admission. (This will be the best $5 you spend! There are tons of things to do over at the museum. While I can't guarantee it, your kids will probably have enough to do for the entire 4 hours)

Niagara Climbing Center (great deal going on right now through Seize the Deal!)

$5 admission at the Buffalo Zoo from the 26th through the 31st!

*Magical Memories on Main Street until January 8th, 2012. Cost FREE (may be hit or miss?)

*YMCA Family Campaign: Visit this previous post for the details on a fun, free event.

*Explore and More Children's Museum offers a special week of activities dealing with rocks, fossils and weather related activities. December 26-31, 2011. Get the details at the Explore and More calendar.

Spinner's Rink the 26, 28, 30 of December from 1-4pm ($5) FREE hot dog and pop with paid admission.

*Holiday Lights at the Fairground until December 30th. Cost is $18 per car load ($6 off if you present a purchase receipt from TOPS or Wendys) Hamburg

*Fatima Shrine Festival of Lights 75 light displays until January 6, 2012. Cost is FREE. Lewiston

*Holiday Lights of the Niagara Trail, 50 displays located throughout Hyde Park until December 31st, 2011. Cost is FREE. Niagara Falls

*Niagara Falls Holiday Market, Winter Wonderland, Outdoor Ice Skating, Claus and Company Holiday Workshop ($) Details of all these events here.

*Outdoor Ice Skating Rinks (FREE-$)

*Check out the free (or cheap) events happening at Reinstein Woods Nature Preserve this week! Visit their Calendar.

Rolly Pollies Special Open Play at the East Amherst and Orchard Park locations from December 26-30. Get the times and cost information here.

OTHER SPECIAL EVENTS LISTED BY DATE:

DECEMBER 27:
The Smurfs Family Film at the Eden Branch Library from 2-3:45pm

See more free events on the 27th at a library near you at this link!

North Tonawanda Public Library offers Holiday Break at the Movies at 1pm. Get the details here. (FREE)

Christmas Movie at Angola's Taste of the Midway Begins at 1pm (FREE)

DECEMBER 28
Family Snow Stomp at Tifft Nature Preserve from 3-4:30pm.
Movie Matinee at the Central Library at 1pm Cats and Dogs

See more events on the 28th at a library near you at this link!

DECEMBER 29
Beaver Meadows Insects and Spiders at the Riverside Branch. Event takes place from 1-3pm for ages 4 and up. Must register in advance! Explore the amazing world of insects and spiders.

See more events on the 29th at a library near you at this link!

North Tonawanda Public Library offers a Holiday Magic Show from 1-2pm

Michael Joseph will enchant us with his extraordinary brand of magic for this “special time of the year”. All ages are welcome to enjoy this free program. No registration necessary. All programs sponsored by the Friends of the North Tonawanda Public Library. For more information call the library, or e-mail rstutzma@nioga.org.

Brighton Place at 10:30am: Fat or Fiction

Buffalo Museum of Science will be here to present a fun and interactive presentation on foods bringing to light what we don't know about what may be in the foods we eat every day. What’s really in that snack pack? Many students do not know how their food choices impact their bodies. In this interactive outreach, students will see the vitamin differences between fresh and processed foods and compare fat contents of common snacks through a fiery approach. Great for grades 3rd-6th. There is no cost to attend this program, it is free of charge and open to the public. Call 332-4375 for more information.

DECEMBER 30:
Dollar Day at the Botanical Gardens

Penn Dixie Site at 10 AM, Cross country skiing snowshoeing or nature walk. Bring
your own skis and/or snowshoes. $3/person, Penn Dixie members FREE. Pe-registration required. Please register by calling (716) 627-4560

North Tonawanda Public Library offers the Second Holiday Break at the Movies at 1pm. Get the details about the Harry Potter movie here.

Tifft Nature Preserve hosts Friday Winter Frolic from 10am-noon.

Bring your family out to Tifft and stretch your legs on a winter walk, then join us for some snow/ice art. Snowshoe rentals will be available for an additional $2 fee paid on site, weather permitting. Ages 3 and up. Non-Members: $5. Buffalo Museum of Science Members Save 10%. Pre-registration required. Please call 896-5200, ext. 338. 1200 Fuhrmann Blvd, Buffalo, NY 14203

Multi Cultural Masks at 1pm at the East Delavan Branch Library

See more events happening on the 30th at a library near you at this link!

Need more ideas? Check the Northtowns, Southtowns and FREE tab at the top of the blog!

New Years on the Canal - Gateway Harbor

2011-12-24T14:13:00.001-05:00

This community event features a 5ft. lighted Ball Drop from high atop the building on the corner of Webster & Sweeney Streets, followed by a display of fire works at midnight, over the Gateway to the Erie Canal in celebration of the New Year.

Activities for the family start at 6pm with 2 alcohol free kid zones. Kid Zones are open from 6pm-9pm with $5 pre-sale "buttons" on sale now (mom and dad are free) Get the complete list of kids activities at the New Years on the Canal Gateway Harbor website.

First Night Buffalo

2011-12-23T21:06:00.002-05:00

This event takes place from 5 to 10 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 31, at the Buffalo Niagara Convention Center.

This information from the First Night Buffalo website:

The annual holiday family tradition is celebrating its 23rd year in downtown Buffalo with activities for all ages to ring in the New Year, including rides and amusements, a storybook forest, comedy, music, magic, exotic reptiles, the grand finale balloon drop and more.

Tickets are $8 and available at all area Wegmans locations. (Children 2 and under are free) Tickets are also available at the door for $10.

Activities indlude: Storybook Land, Laser Tag, Bounce House, Giant Slide, Nickel City Reptiles and much, much more. See the complete event schedule at this link!

For more information and a schedule of events, visit the First Night Buffalo website at firstnightbuffalo.org

New Year's Eve Teen Night at Adventure Landing!

2011-12-21T20:21:00.002-05:00

Holiday Discount Days at the Buffalo Zoo - $5 Admission!

2011-12-21T11:48:00.003-05:00

Great news! The Buffalo Zoo is offering some great, low admission prices over the holiday break! Here are the details:

From December 26-31, the Buffalo Zoo will slash admission prices. All visitors, regardless of age, will pay $5 per person to get into the Zoo. (Normally, adult and child admission fees are $10.00 and $7.00 respectively. As always, Buffalo Zoo members and children under the age of two years receive free admission.)

Please take note of the REVISED Holiday hours below:

Please note that the Buffalo Zoo is open from 10:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. The grounds remain open one hour after gates close.

However, there are some revisions regarding the Zoo’s holiday/winter hours:
Christmas Eve (Saturday, December 24): Admission gates close at 1:30 p.m.
Christmas Day (Sunday, December 25): CLOSED
New Year’s Eve (Saturday, December 31): Admission gates close at 2:30 p.m.
New Year’s Day (Sunday, January 1): OPEN regular schedule (10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Middle School New Year's Party at the Amherst Museum

2011-12-20T21:29:00.003-05:00

This information coming from the Amherst Museum website:

Your ticket price includes:

Your 3 hour Admission to Buffalo’s best event. (organized by Buffalo Party Rock)
Food – Taco in a Bag or slice of pizza and a soda or water.
3 hours of awesome Music w KISS 98.5 Tony Mamaluke.
Our huge Big Kahuna Slide and Obstacle Course.
A photo session in our photo booth with you or you and friends.
Great light and laser show.
A balloon drop and party poppers.

Doors will open at 6:30 and the party starts at 7:00 to 10:00. There will be huge inflatable slides, obstacle courses, a photo booth, food, great prizes, thumping sound system, video, light shows and special guest DJ Tony Mamaluke from KISS 98.5!

We encourage you to bring non-perishable food for WNY Heroes to the Amherst Museum.

Dollar Day at the Botanical Gardens

2011-12-20T20:12:00.001-05:00

If you have never been to the Buffalo and Erie County Botanical Gardens, December 30th would be a great day to check it out!

December 30th, 2011 is Dollar Day at the Gardens! The Gardens are so beautiful this time of year with the Poinsettia Show going on until January 1, 2012. Your kids will love the Railway Exhibit which is double the size of last year's exhibit. (And includes a Thomas the Train exhibit as well)

Hours are 10am-5pm and admission is just a DOLLAR!!

Do you need some other ideas of what to do with the kids over Christmas break. Get some ideas here!

YMCA Family Campaign - FREE activities over the Christmas Break

2011-12-18T14:57:00.002-05:00

Here's a fun, FREE activity happening during Christmas break!

This from the YMCA Facebook page:

Stop by the Y during our campaign, December 26, 2011-January 31, 2012 and see all we have to offer! Each of the YMCAs six full-facility branches will even host a special family camp December 26-31 with family friendly activities for you and your family to enjoy during winter recess!

To find a location near you visit this link and then click on SCHEDULES to find the date and times of these FREE, family events.

ETA: According to the Buffalo News here are the Y Branches participating in this event:
Participating are the Southtowns Family YMCA, 1620 Southwestern Blvd., West Seneca (674-9622); Ken-Ton Family YMCA, 535 Belmont Ave., Town of Tonawanda (874-5051); Northeast Family YMCA, 4433 Main St., Snyder (839-2543); Ellicott-Masten Family YMCA, 585 William St. (845-5440); and the Delaware Family YMCA, 2564 Delaware Ave. (875-1283).

AND here is an example of the type of events going on during the YMCA Family Campaign:

Ellicott-Masten Family YMCA will be holding a FREE Family Fun Winter Carnival

On Wed 12/28 6:30-8:30PM the Ellicott-Masten Family YMCA will be holding a FREE Family Fun Winter Carnival...there will be open swim time, crafts, carnival games, snacks, a bounce house and more...This is during the YMCA Buffalo-Niagara Membership Campaign (12/26/11-1/31/12)...Please RSVP by calling 845-5440, we are located at 585 William St. Buffalo, NY.

Bella Kids Consignment Events of WNY

2011-12-17T11:09:00.000-05:00

Bella Kids Consignment Events of WNY has released the dates and location for their upcoming 4-Day Kids' Spring Sale!

DATES: Thursday, March 29 - Sunday, April 1st.
LOCATION: Premier Place on Transit Rd. in Williamsville. (The plaza with Steinmart, Chipotle, Premier Wine across the street from Walmart.)

The Spring 4-Day Sale will include the following special events:

Preview Sale Event - Thursday, March 29th from 2-8pm (Reserved for consignors & volunteers ONLY.)
50% off Sale - Sunday, April 1st, last day of sale. Many items will be 50% of the ticketed price!
Designer Mommies - A selection of gently used, designer label handbags and diaper bags for the designer diva mommies.
Bella Kids Boutique - A specialty section carrying beautifully handmade children's accessories and clothing. Many from local artisans and crafters.

CONSIGN WITH BELLA KIDS! Interested in making extra $ after the holidays? Consign with Bella Kids to earn up to 75% of the sales profits! Clear out your outgrown brand-name clothes, toys, room decor, and baby gear! No garage sales, no craigslist worries! Just register as a consignor @ www.wnybellakids.com and enter your items into their inventory system and print out the price tags. Then drop your items off before the sale and sit back and wait for a check to arrive on your profits! During the sale, you can even view your daily sales from home on your computer!

Stay updated and "LIKE" the Bella Kids FB page @ www.facebook.com/WNYBellaKids Want reminders? Join the Bella Kids Mailing List.

Have questions? Email: info@wnybellakids.com

Hanukkah Celebration at Monkey See Monkey Do (FREE)

2011-12-16T14:22:00.000-05:00

Join Monkey See Monkey Do Children's Bookstore for a Hanukkah Celebration on Tuesday, December 20 from 11 am - noon.

We will read Hanukkah stories, learn about the Jewish holiday, light a mennorah, and make applesauce to enjoy with a sampling of potato latkes. All ages welcome. This is a free event!

Please call 204-8417 to register so we may ensure enough supplies for all children.

Monkey See Monkey Do is located at 9060 Main Street in Clarence, NY.

Giveaway! Swimming Lesson Package from Michael Phelps Swim School!

2011-12-16T12:56:00.011-05:00

Thank you to Michael Phelps Swim School for offering this fantastic swimming package again!

Michael Phelps Swim School is a Learn to Swim Program for all ages & abilities. Classes are available for children as young as 6 months old. Classes this session will be held at the Casey Middle School Pool, 105 Casey Road, East Amherst 14051, on Fridays (4:00 - 8:00), Sundays (8:40 - 11:20), and Tuesdays (4:00 - 8:00). Lessons will begin the first week of January and extend to until April 3. Classes are forming now! More details are available at www.MPSSny.com. Space is limited, and spots go fast...Register online!

**If you register online prior to the conclusion of the contest (12/23/11), and then are selected as the winner of this contest, your class fee will be refunded.

THE GIVEAWAY:

Michael Phelps Swim School is giving away a free lesson package (for 1 child) of your choice. Depending on what class you decide to sign your child up for, the value of the prize could be up to $162.50. (Rates vary by day Tuesday, Friday or Sunday)

HOW TO ENTER:

Michael Phelps Swim School requests that you follow these instructions to enter this great contest!

1. "Like" their facebook page through facebook at www.facebook.com/MPSSny
and then email them at info@MPSSny.com

2. If you are already a fan of Michael Phelps Swim School, just email info@MPSSny.com.

EXTRA ENTRY: Share the Michael Phelps Fan Page (towards the bottom of the left column of the facebook page, underneath the list of "Likes", there is a "Share" option.) Clicking that option shares the page. If you share the page, then email info@MPSSny.com and let them know.

Michael Phelps Swim School will pick a winner on Friday, December 23rd, 2011. Michael Phelps Swim School will be responsible to contact the winner at that time.

Disclaimer: I have not been compensated monetarily or with material goods to post this contest.

Mom Review: Money Saving Mom's Budget

2011-12-16T10:12:00.003-05:00

I've been following the Money Saving Mom blog for about 3 years now. Money Saving Mom is not your typical coupon/deals/match-ups website. Crystal (the momma behind MSM) blogs about so much more than that which is why I love her site.

Crystal's new book, Money Saving Mom's Budget, compiles much of the experience and advice she has blogged about since the beginning of her blog. Some of the chapters in her book of note include:

25 ways to lower your grocery bill without clipping coupons

Give yourself an instant raise without increasing your take-home pay

Beyond the Basics: Advanced Couponing Techniques

Basically, Crystal takes you from the beginning. So, if you find that you are recently very interested in cutting your spending this is an easy read for you. If you've been at this slashing your spending "thing" for awhile, you can still learn something from Money Saving Mom's Budget.

Crystal knows what works because she has lived it. You will be inspired by her story of her early days of marriage to a law student. Committed to keeping out of debt they lived on very little during those early years.

Some of the money saving ideas her and her husband put into place may seem extreme to some people. But, this is the great thing about people who give out financial advice - you can take some of the advice and put it into practice in your own life and you can leave the rest behind! You've got to do whatever works for your family.

I appreciate that Money Saving Mom's Budget walks you through things like drugstore couponing, making a budget, ways to earn extra cash and other ideas for cutting your spending. It's easy to get overwhelmed when you start getting serious about spending less and saving more - Crystal advocates starting slow!

One of the great financial suggestions I have taken from the Money Saving Mom blog (which she mentions in the book as well) is the cash envelope system. I know, it's not rocket science and has been around for years! But my family has never practiced such a system until the last couple of years.

Christmas is usually the time I'm really thankful we started using cash envelopes. In previous years, December would roll around and with all the gift giving we would always have a large credit card bill in our mailbox in January! We weren't prepared for the extra spending that Christmas often brings. Now, we have a cash envelope labeled "GIFTS". This envelope gets a set amount of cash placed in it each month and when Christmas comes we're prepared! (Other cash envelopes our family uses include: car repairs, groceries, clothing and many more!)

The Money Saving Mom's Budget is scheduled to release January 10, 2012. All of the profits are going to Compassion International–an organization that helps to feed and clothe needy children around the globe.

I would love to send 1 Fun 4 Kids reader a copy of the Money Saving Mom's Budget! If you are interested in Crystal's book, please leave your email address at the end of this post in the comment section. (All emails will be deleted at the end of the giveaway) Or send your email address as a form of entry to fun4kidsinbuffalo at gmail dot com

Random.org will choose a winner on December 27, 2011 at 10pm. I will email the giveaway winner within 24 hours of random.org's decision.