December 2010 Baystate Parent Magazine

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DECEMBER 2010

baystateparent FREE

Massachusetts’ Premier Magazine For Families

HEADS UP: THE STATE’S NEW CONCUSSION LAW HOT SPOTS WE LOVE SCIENCE IN THE CITY FIRST GLUTEN STEPS WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW FOR BABY

happy holidays MEET THE TOY MAKERS OF MASSACHUSETTS

A NUTCRACKER BALLERINA STARS IN HER NEW ROLE 56 WISHES YOUR FAMILY CAN GRANT OTHERS Voted Best Parenting Publication in North America 2004, 2006, 2007 and 2008

2 DECEMBER2010

Tours Tuesday Jan 11 & Tuesday Feb 8 from 9 to 10 a.m. Call 508-351-9976 to reserve your spot.

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Gift CertiďŹ cates Available for Upcoming Shows The Secret Garden + 5 $!

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DECEMBER VACATION ACTING CLASSES FOR KIDS & TEENS 3-Day Holiday Drama Festival December 27 – December 29 * -* $ .+ *,.$ 0 www.WheelockFamilyTheatre.org 4 DECEMBER2010

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THE BEST FAMILY FRIENDLY INDOOR NEW YEAR’S EVE CELEBRATION! FUN ∙ GAMES ∙ FOOD DECEMBER 31, 2010 ∙ 2 :00 PM - MIDNIGHT

JUST A FEW THINGS TO DO ...

Street Painting Festival at the DCU Little Picasso’s Gallery 3:00 - 9:30 PM Watch works of art being created before your eyes and little artists of any age can try it, too.

Kid Karaoke 5:00 PM Be a star – or at least practice to be one. This mic is open just for children.

The Zoo Show 2:00 & 3:00 PM Come say hello to and learn about fascinating wild birds, mammals and reptiles.

BubbleMania 3:00, 4:00 & 7:00 PM Casey Carle, consultant to Cirque du Soleil, makes bubble magic.

BUTTONS ON SALE NOW AT CVS, PRICE CHOPPER, BARNES & NOBLE, & ONLINE!

Kids 7 & under FREE $10 - December 1-24 Gizmo Guys 7:00 & 8:15 PM World-class juggling, jousting repartee, and a raucous ride.

$12 - December 25-31 $15 - At the Door

Buy a ticket to Sesame Street Live at The Hanover Theatre on 12/31 and get a First Night button at discount!

For a List of Complete Event Details Visit www.FIRSTNIGHTWORCESTER.org

Presenting sponsors:

baystateparent 6 DECEMBER2010

our special guest Avi Torres, age 4, Waltham captured by Allison Cottrill Photography, Carlisle www.allisoncottrillphotography.com Avi’s clothing provided by Kenzie Kids and Rugged Bear Hair and Makeup by Toni & GuyŽ Hairdressing Academy, Worcester www.toniguy.com

table

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FOOTBALL

New research proves that even with no symptoms your child could have a brain injury from contact sports. Determine if your child’s sports program is compliant with Massachusetts’ latest “concussion law� and how to teach your child to play it safe.

the of the home

32

40

MOMS ROCK

Meet an elegant Nutcracker ballerina as she reflects on her childhood dancing days as well as her newest love, parenting 15-month-old Sofia.

TOYMAKERS

Check out the Massachusetts toymakers who stopped by the bsp offices. See what toys they brought and get some ideas to round out your holiday shopping.

DECEMBER 2010 • VOLUME 15 • NUMBER 8

in every issue 8 WELCOME 9 GUESTBOOK 10 LET’S ROLL: The Learning Room, Boston 14 OH, THE PLACES YOU’LL GO: Calendar of Events 22 TAKE GOOD CARE: Babies and Gluten

24 MOMS ROCK: Becky Shelton, Groton 27 CAPTURED 34 FINALLY, FOREVER 35 CIRCLE OF FRIENDS: Adoption Events 35 DECEMBER’S CHILD 39 UNDER MY ROOF

happy holidays 27 CAPTURED: TIDINGS OF COMFORT AND JOY

32 Meet the Toymakers 34 FINALLY, FOREVER: Culture Club 36 56 WISHES: Ways to Donate and Volunteer

28 48 49 54

HOLIDAY SHOW & TELL BULLETIN BOARD PARTY PLANNER ADVERTISING INDEX

with your FamilY

39 UNDER MY ROOF: Year-End Countdowns

something special 40 HEADS UP: The Sports Concussion Crisis and your Child

42 WHO’S COACHING OUR KIDS: Lynn Toomey, Lunenburg 46 ON MY PLATE: My Battle with Alzheimer’s

advertising directories

44

ON THE ROAD AGAIN: When Parents Travel for Work

sneak peek JANUARY

EDUCATION

FEBRUARY

CELEBRATIONS

MARCH

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Voted Best Parenting Publication in North America 2004, 2006, 2007, and 2008

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e m o c l e W I’ll never forget the Christmas morning my kids looked out their bedroom window onto the back deck to see if Santa’s reindeer had eaten their carrots when one of them exclaimed, “Mom, Santa took our trampoline!” I jumped out of bed, rushing to my window but couldn’t see a thing. It was Christmas morning, and as most parents know, this means it’s about 5 a.m. and complete darkness. A missing trampoline was certainly an exception to the Christmas morning rule, “stay in bed until 7.” Squinting and still trying to wake up, I did what no reasonable person wants to do on a freezing winter morning, I stuck my head out the window. The December air slapped me awake. Merry Christmas.

It felt like a David Copperfield magic show. You know, where he makes the Statue of Liberty disappear? Except our statue was a 14-inch royal blue jumping contraption. “It’s really not there,” I told my sleeping husband. I threw a robe over my pjs and some winter boots on my bare feet cheered on by my kids pressing their noses into the glass of the sliding doors. Outside, I crunched on top of the icy snow, wielding a flashlight. The kids knocked on the window, waving to me, eventually cracking it open calling, “Mom, did you find it?” Judging by the nibbled carrots and lettuce, carefully staged to “trash” the deck, the kids surmised that the reindeer had made a faulty landing, crashing into our trampoline. The flashlight surveyed the yard. No trampoline. Just a cookie-cutter circle of green grass imprinted in the crusty white snow. The kids had saved their piggy bank money for one year to buy their trampoline (it was that or a dog), and we had only had it for two months. “Mom!” one of them called, “Can we look under the Christmas tree now?” (the mystery of the disappearing trampoline couldn’t compete any longer to the allure of presents). With a final scan of the flashlight, I located the trampoline to the right of our house, about 50 feet from where it was supposed to be planted, a twisted mass of broken metal, smashed on top of our rock wall, the canvas ripped. My husband, who was now awake, had spent many hours assembling the metal and canvas beast. He looked at his work through my spotlight, defeated. With the business of Christmas

before us, we turned our attention to littering the family room with the innards of a recycling bin (ten times over) as the sun came up. In the aftermath of presents, we surveyed the damage of Santa’s crash. “I think we can fix it,” I encouraged. My husband disagreed. He thought it was a sign that someone was going to get hurt on the thing anyway, and we shouldn’t have had a trampoline to begin with (I think it was really his way of saying there was no way he was going to assemble this monstrosity again). It stayed there until spring, ripping and bending from the weight of sleet and ice, reminding us of Santa’s rough landing (and one windy night). I helped my husband take it apart and feed it to a dumpster. Our trampoline story is just another example that even the most formidable toys may not last, whether taken out by Santa’s sleigh or a parent in a cleaning fit, but the good stories will. The kids still talk about that night. While you make your own family memories this holiday season, think of bsp when you take your photos. We’d love to see some winter wonderland shots (and other great photos of your kids) for our new photo page, “Captured” (see page 30). Whether you make your memories helping other families (page 36), flying south (page 12) or visiting Boston’s latest “homegrown gem” (page 10), here’s to smooth landings into 2011 for us all!

Carrie Wattu, editor

Massachusetts’ Premier Magazine For Families

baystateparent publisher GARETH CHARTER 508-749-3166 x153 gcharter@holdenlandmark.com editor CARRIE WATTU 413-265-1202 editor@baystateparent.com

creative director PAULA MONETTE ETHIER 508-865-7070 baystateparent@holdenlandmark.com

promotions JENNIFER ANTKOWIAK 508-269-1728 jemsa2@charter.net

graphic designer STEPHANIE RENAUD 508-865-7070 srenaud@holdenlandmark.com

sales & business development manager STEPHANIE PEARL 774-364-0296 stephaniep@baystateparent.com account executive STACI LaTURNO 774-364-5073 stacil@baystateparent.com account executive EMILY RETTIG 774-364-4178 emilyr@baystateparent.com account executive JORDAN FOWLER 508-423-3749 jordanf@baystateparent.com contributing writers AMY CORNELIUSSEN AMANDA ROBERGE MARY GREENDALE BONNIE TOOMEY HEATHER KEMPSKIE MELANIE ZOLTAN JIM KEOGH presidents KIRK and LAURIE DAVIS

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photographers ALLIE COTTRILL STEVEN KING Illustrators HANNAH GREGUS KELLAN P. STOVER

baystatestateparent 117 Elm St., Millbury, MA 01527

508-865-7070

Meet Our Cover Model

www.baystateparent.com campguide.baystateparent.com www.massfieldtrips.com

Avi Torres

baystateparent Inc. is published monthly with a main office at 117 Elm Street, Millbury, 01527 508-865-7070 Fax 508-865-7979 It is distributed free of charge throughout Massachusetts. www.baystateparent.com • info@baystateparent.com

of Waltham, age 4

Distribution Agency: Insight Distribution Management 978-728-7785/603-661-8370 • Insightdm@yahoo.com

What is your favorite food to eat during Hanukkah? Pasta What is the best part about winter? The snow and the rain

14 Parenting Publications of America Awards, 2009

Do you like wearing a shirt and tie like you modeled on the cover? It’s so crazy. I am not going to work!

8 DECEMBER2010

allison cottrill

If you could put anything in this red box and give it as a present to your mom, what would you put into it? a computer!

4 New England Press Association Awards, 2009 6 Suburban Newspapers of America Awards, 2009 Including 1st Place in Community Service

GUESTBOOK I invite family members of children with Holoprosencephaly (HPE) and other neurological conditions and brain malformations to join my Facebook group, Living in the World of Holoprosencephaly (HPE). It’s a group of people simply sharing our lives and our special stories- as well as gaining lifelong friendships. It’s a great means of gaining knowledge & support. Angel Moll, Bellingham I enjoy finding new places to go with my son in baystateparent. Being a single mother I want to ensure that I provide my son with lots of activities to create memories and have fun. I also enjoy the Guestbook to see the great feedback. Ann Savoie, Athol Please reassure me that all of the fur featured in your November fashion shoot is artificial. The sources of all that fur were never specified, which caused me great dismay. Real fur garments are the product of cruelty, and I would never put them on my child. I am trying to teach him respect for all of our fellow creatures, and there are plenty of ways to keep warm without causing animals pain and death. Catherine Crow, Ashland I have been a fan of baystateparent for years and would like you to know I am disgusted by the children wearing fur in the November 2010 issue! Was this really necessary? Mary Ellen Cahill, Canton Editor’s Note: baystateparent’s November 2010 fashion editorial features a Belgium-made fur vest and earmuffs. Fashion editorial covers what is on trend and does not necessarily represent the political position of baystateparent. We encourage you to discuss issues with your children in keeping with your family’s values. I would like to see baystateparent get children more involved with charity. Rebecca Soulliere, Leominster Editor’s Note: This month baystateparent features over 56 ways your family can help other children this holiday season (and beyond). Turn to page 36. I want to thank you for writing the article about my son, Jon’s, dream [“Creatures of Comfort” November 2010]. Lynn Jolicoeur, you are a talented writer and have captured the very essence of his story. Jon was beaming from ear to ear. Linda Weintraub, Marlborough Editor’s Note: To contact Linda and Jon Weintraub, mother and son creators of Autistic Kingdom, e-mail autistickingdom@gmail.com. I loved the October issue; it is so inspiring to read about the breast cancer survivors and their stories. I also loved the mom who runs a farm [Moms Rock, Molly Dubois of Barre]. That is so cool! I really want to go and visit there now [Carter and Stevens Farm, Barre]! Deb Dwinell, Oxford My oldest son, Erik, turned 8 in November. Instead of receiving gifts, he asked his friends to make a donation

to the Shrewsbury Public Library with the goal of raising enough money to sponsor a Sunday opening. Due to budget cuts, there are not enough funds for the library to remain open on weekends, so they are looking for private sponsors. Gayle Galletta, Shrewsbury I love baystateparent. You provide great articles that I can relate to as a mother. Your articles inspire articles to others to hope, dream and believe. Janet Wallace, Gardner I just love all bsp’s articles especially “Why I Hate Pink” [October 2010]. Karen Cormier, Lunenburg The pink supplement was wonderful in the October issue!!! Jean Curtin, Hopkinton I found all my son’s party needs last year in baystateparent: the entertainment, supplies, etc..... Your magazine had everything so I didn’t have to do numerous Internet searches. Your magazine was a one-stop shop for me. Thank you! Jennifer Vaillancourt, Arlington

WINNERS

baystateparent giveaways are announced at baystateparent.com under “Giveaways” as well as on our Facebook page (Join our page today by searching “baystateparent Magazine.” We’re a friendly and resourceful group of 1,428 parents and growing strong.) OshKosh Gift Certificate Lisa Nelson, Grafton Reebok Zigpulse Sneakers Maureen Remington, North Oxford Heidi E. Qua, Southborough Thoughts on our December issue? Ideas for 2011 editions? E-mail your comments and suggestions to editor@baystateparent.com. All letters will be edited for clarity and length. Please include your full name and town for publication.

OPEN HOUSE

Listings

Tenacre Country Day School January 6, 2011 from 8:30am – 9:15am 78 Benvenue Street, Wellesley, MA 02482 Contact Sam Reece, Director of Admission and Tuition Assistance 781-235-2282 www.tenacrecds.org Lexington Montessori School January 6, 2011 from 9:30am - 11:30am 130 Pleasant Street, Lexington, MA 02421 Contact Carolyn DiNatale 781-862-8571 x1101 www.lexmontessori.org BAYSTATEPARENT 9

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How can you measure a blue whale in the city? Well, at The Learning Room, kids do it with rope, a very long rope. This tiny museum is on a mission even bigger than a whale: The Learning Room wants to teach kids how to protect the Earth through knowledge, practical tips and imparting a love of nature. Here, kids get to sort “garbage,� be a leafcutter ant in the rainforest and compare themselves to the length of a blue whale. We set out one day last month to explore this new storefront learning center, started by science teachers in a warehouse in the Fort Point Channel neighborhood of South Boston. We’d been advised not to expect all the bells and whistles of larger, more established kids’ museums. And we didn’t miss that a bit. We were engaged by the kid-friendly games and activities built from recycled materials, and enjoyed The Learning Room’s homemade touch supported by solid science. Perhaps it’s reminiscent of the humble beginnings of its giant neighbor, Boston Children’s Museum, which was also started by teachers 90+ years ago to create hands-on experiences for kids. Founder and Executive Director Dr. Ricky Stern started the non-profit “e� inc. in 2002 from her basement, and since

then, she and her staff of teachers have taught hundreds of kids at after-school programs at Boston public schools, using “e� inc.’s own science curriculum. With The Learning Room, Stern aims to bring her one-room schoolhouse to the public to educate and activate. “We really want people to come in and be inspired,� Stern says. “We want them to say ‘We didn’t know it was so intricate,’ or ‘I didn’t know it was so cool.’� The Learning Room is one big room divided into three stations: Recycling, Whales and Rainforest. Each station has about a dozen games and activities, with clear directions and educational information. The wide range of activities appeal to kids’ varied learning styles and ages through elementary school. Stern says the museum also appeals to middle schoolers whose school districts don’t offer much science. There’s also an art room, where kids can get creative with recyclable materials, and an “action� room where kids can take a concrete step toward saving the environment.

RECYCLING We started in the recycling room, named “Dregsville,� where the kids became trash experts. But don’t worry, all the “trash� and “recycling� and “compost� is clean and safe to handle. At home, my kids help with recycling once in a while, but want nothing to do with garbage. But at The Learning Room, my kids were handed bags of “garbage� and tried to outdo each other in sorting each piece into the bins labeled Landfill, Compost, Reuse and Recycle. So, in their zeal to beat the sib, they may not have placed every item into the right pail, but they got some hands-on time dealing with trash and that was fun

to see! “It’s really to get kids to think about what are the four options and what are the ones we are emphasizing as having the best outcome for the planet,� Stern says. “In the end, kids have to make their own choices, so it’s meant to be a discovery.� Stern says recycling at home is where a lot of families start making a change for the environment. “Compost and recycling is so concrete. For some families, that’s where they are making their stand,� she says. My kids plunked down to a board game on the floor that tracks the many paths your empty plastic water bottle may take – roll the dice and you find out if “You’ve been littered, head to landfill,� or a car flattened you and you’re swooshing down a storm drain, or if you’re the lucky one headed to the recycling plant. For younger kids, there are little trucks with a job: pick up all the tiny garbage bags, drive them to the landfill and dump them. And all ages enjoy peeking at the worm farm in an aquarium.

WHALES So, about that whale. How did we use a rope to measure a whale in the city? Well, it was part rope and part imagination. We took a big spool of rope outside on the sidewalk, and with children at both ends, unrolled the full 100-foot length. Then our imagination took over. My 7-year-old son said he thought a blue whale would be even longer, like as long as 16 cars parked end to end. But I was astonished when I saw the span and imagined that whale swimming by me. A lot longer than the humpbacks we’ve seen on whale watches! Back in the whale room again, my son matched up whale jaws with whales to learn how they eat, and put together the innards of a whale to learn about digestion.

My 12-year-old daughter found the origami table and made a paper whale, while my son did a whale puzzle. One activity for older kids has them identifying whales by their flukes (tails with unique patterns), and then grouping them in their whale family trees. Another exhibit shows how hands, wings, fins and feet all share the same basic bone structure.

RAINFOREST My kids were getting a little silly by the time we made it to the Rainforest room, with my daughter trying to camouflage herself as one of the pictures of capuchin monkeys my son was peeking at through a scope. Then they found a game with plastic hopping frogs, and started popping those at each other instead of into their bromeliads. But it was all good fun in the name of environmental enlightenment. The kids tried out life as a leafcutter ant, hoisting a “leaf” proportionally as heavy to humans as the real leaf is to the ant – not as light as they thought! We used marbles to learn about biomes in a game that asks you to guess which of the Earth’s five biomes supports the most life. (Ocean is the largest biome geographically, but, rainforests with 2 percent of the land support the largest percentage of life – 51 percent.) Younger kids can dress up as a giant anteater, donning a snout with a 2-footlong tongue, paws and claws. And all ages were challenged looking for camouflage animals in a set of photos. We wound up our afternoon by walking to the nearby Flour Bakery (see sidebar) for a treat, reluctantly leaving our fabulous parking spot to make it home before rush hour. Recently we went back into Boston to Faneuil Hall, just a few blocks away, and we were really struck by the contrast. We thought about our visit to The Learning Room and our impact on the environment as we toured through shops loaded with merchandise and ate take-out food from Styrofoam containers. That’s exactly what Stern hopes will happen. “Our goal is for children and families to have an eye-opening moment about the environment.’’

an easy walk from Summer St. to Congress St., but keep in mind that Summer is elevated in the blocks surrounding The Learning Room, so use the stairs down to A Street just a few blocks east of The Learning Room.

Street, just a few blocks from The Learning Room on the corner of Congress and Farnsworth Streets, one block from BCM. Kids can check out the antique fire engine and truck, early fire alarms, historic photos and modern-day protective equipment.

Oreos, chocolate truffle tarts, etc. On weekends, there’s french toast, homefries, steel-cut oatmeal and applewood smoked bacon. Flour Bakery is at 12 Farnsworth Street, a block from the Boston Children’s Museum.

• The BOSTON CHILDREN’S MUSEUM is just a few blocks from The Learning Room at 308 Congress St. This museum has dozens of hands-on exhibits and is open every day.

• We had lunch and delectable treats at FLOUR BAKERY, a hip yet down-toearth bakery and restaurant. Kids meals include grilled cheese, pizza, pb&j, and ham & cheese sandwich. Grownup sandwiches start at $7.95, including meat and vegan options. There’s also salads, homemade soup, fresh bread, lots of tea and coffee, inch-thick brownies, cookies, homemade

• AU BON PAIN is another yummy, easy option for lunch or snacks. It shares a building with the Boston Children’s Museum at 308 Congress St., but has its own entrance. This bakery/restaurant chain has sandwiches, soups, and lots of baked goodies.

• The BOSTON FIRE MUSEUM is open only on Saturdays, 11 AM to 6 PM, and is free. It’s located at 344 Congress

o you remember the excitement of boarding the bus for the first day of school? The new friends … new clothes … new backpack … and an exciting new world of subjects to learn. Now you can experience that excitement again – at the head of your own classroom!

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Get Back on the Bus

The Learning Room is open Saturdays, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.; $5 for children, $7 for adults. Visit e-action.us for more information. Amy Corneliussen is a mom and former journalist who lives in Central Massachusetts.

TRAVEL TIPS AND WHAT’S NEARBY? The warehouses in the Fort Point Chanel neighborhood used to be full of wool. Now they’re fillling with artists’ studios, and the area is evolving into a hip part of the city with some family-friendly spots within a few blocks of The Learning Room. The Learning Room is at 337 Summer Street, just a few blocks from South Station, so it’s easy to get to by train or car, with lots of pay parking lots nearby and metered street parking on Summer St. It’s

B

Classecome es O NE Na Teach ight e a Wer! 50 8. 37 3. ek 95 00

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g s n i o ion g On miss Ad BAYSTATEPARENT 11

You are My Sunshine!

Bradenton Beach

located on Anna Maria Island beautiful, quiet, artsy, friendly Just a 30-minute ride from the Sarasota Airport, and you’ll find yourself in “Manatee Country,� home of the gentle Floridian sea cow and six of the prettiest sugar-white beaches around. You’ll find no high rises here, which is indicative of the slow-paced vibe of the Anna Maria area. In fact, it’s so laid back that everything seems to close at 10 p.m. (no spring breakers here). Just spectacular beaches, good food and plenty of rest. Ah, island time!

FLORIDA SPOTS WE LOVE BY

bsp staff

Where we stayed: BridgeWalk, a family-friendly resort located on Historic Bridge St., (the beach is across the street). Stroll down Bridge St. and browse the boutiques and funky shops. BridgeWalk offers studios, suites and one or two-bedroom apartments with complimentary continental breakfast (some with views of the Gulf of Mexico and the pool). silverresorts.com. For your convenience, there is free parking at all beaches and a free island-wide trolley service.

Where we ate: bradenton area convention & visitors bureau

The Sun House Restaurant and Bar (BridgeWalk): A fun spot to watch the sunset from every seat in and out of the house. One patron rings the gong precisely as the sun goes down every night, and diners sing “You are my Sunshine.� The food is very good, a fusion of Floridian and Caribbean. thesunhouserestaurant.com. Beach Bistro (Holmes Beach): A special treat if you want a romantic night out without the kids (but children are welcome). The staff is detail-oriented, right down to caring for each rose petal on your table’s long-stemmed rose. Impressive service, atmosphere and food. beachbistro.com.

What gets you through the winter? Flannel PJs, comfort food, tea and Chi? Or if you’re lucky, the thought of some mid-winter sunshine can “make you happy when skies are gray.� Yes, Florida is what gets so many New Englanders through. bsp has compiled some of our favorite

Florida spots (beyond the family Orlando trip) for that warm getaway with your children, a weekend away with your significant other or even just your girlfriends. All of our highlighted destinations are on Florida’s Gulf Coast. No theme parks this trip (they have their time and place for sure), but for now, just sugary-white beaches, warm water and a Caribbean feel.

Ginny & Jane E’s at the Old IGA (Anna Maria): A truly unique place to eat breakfast or lunch as everything is for sale, even the chair you sit on! Think local artwork, jewelry, crafts, antiques and furnishings...annamariacafe.com. The Sandbar Restaurant (Anna Maria): Eat inside, outside on the deck or even right in the sand while you watch the

sunset and listen to local live music. sandbar-restaurant.com. Mattison’s Riverside (Bradenton Mainland): Enjoy a fabulous lunch or dinner on the newly renovated deck overlooking the river in this gorgeous restaurant. Features live nightly music. Incredible! mattisons. com. Gulf Drive Cafe (right on Bradenton Beach): This beachy, casual cafe is hopping for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Sit on an open-air porch overlooking the Gulf as a school of dolphins swim by. gulfdrivetiki. com. Ristorante Ortygia (Bradenton Mainland): Set in a charming house surrounded by bungalows, this eclectic restaurant is filled with original artwork and fun mismatched furniture. The dÊcor complements the unique fusion food ( a mix of Sicilian and French). Warm and friendly staff! ortygiarestaurant.com.

What we did: Acqua Full-Service Chic Salon and Spa: Start your vacation with your best foot forward in downtown Holmes Beach with a Caribbean-style pedicure. You can even order a salad to enjoy while having your treatment. acquaaveda.com. South Florida Museum: Visit the largest natural and cultural history museum on Florida’s Gulf Coast featuring a stateof-the-art planetarium, The Parker Manatee Aquarium (which houses the oldest manatee in captivity, 62-year-old, Snooty), a hands-on activity center and evolving exhibits. Great for families! southfloridamuseum.org. Village of the Arts: The Gulf Coast’s largest arts district boasts over 35 galleries where artists live and work in their bungalow-style homes. Feel a warm sense of community as well as a little taste of the bohemian lifestyle here as you take a fabulous art tour filled with interesting personalities and art as well as an array of book shops, cafÊs and spas. villageofthearts. com.

What also looks fun: Horse Surfing: Take a bareback horseback riding tour in Palma Sola Bay in Bradenton where the horse actually swims in the

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water! Children as young as 3 years old with no prior riding experience can even try. beachhorses.com. Biking: Everyone in the family can tour the island on rented bikes. Beach Bums also offers all kinds of baby equipment that you can rent to use during your stay. beachbmsami.com.

St. Pete Beach,

will love the accommodations with five heated pools, 11 restaurants, cushioned beach cabanas, paddleboats to use around the hotel’s meandering waterway, a Kids’ KONK Club and so much more! Everything is just footsteps away from your room. tradewindsresort.com. Where we ate: At the TradeWinds’ restaurants and in our suite. Excellent variety and quality!

St. Petersburg, Florida Located just 30 minutes from Tampa, the island of St. Pete Beach has true island ambiance. It’s a great place to “park it and relax� or rent a car and beach hop up and down the coast. Where we stayed: TradeWinds Island Resort, a family-friendly resort right on a beautiful, white-sand beach. Families

What we did: Took a memorable excursion on Captain Memo’s Pirate Cruise, a blast for adults without kids as well as for families filled with music, games, drinks, sunsets and more! captainmemo.com. Plus we rented a giant water tricycle at the resort and rode the resort’s giant inflatable slide, the Hippo (it’s a blast!). Kids can ride all day (with a pass) while adults lounge within eye’s view.

What we’d like to do: Take a short trolley ride to Downtown St. Petersburg and explore the museums including the world-renowned Salvador Dali museum, the Florida International Museum – a Smithsonian Institution, the Museum of Fine Arts, the Museum of History and the Florida Holocaust Museum, all within walking distance of each other. Also ifyou really want to take in one theme park, you could take an excursion to Tampa’s Busch Gardens.

Reader Favorites Sanibel Island Sanibel Island is the prime seashell gathering place in the world! Families will really like the Bubble Room, a fun, novel restaurant with delicious food. Be sure to check out the bubbleroomrestaurant.com. - Cindy Wells, Arlington

All you really need to do is go to Siesta Key beach. It is the whitest sand (that never gets hot..it is true) and it is also the best sand to make sandcastles with, molding ever so easily. The water couldn’t be more blue. You will be sure to see dolphins swim on by, discover sharks’ teeth and find tons and tons of great shells. So so very beautiful!! - Kelly Hansen, Ashburnham

Naples Naples is a beautiful city with an amazing coastline. It’s special to us because we visit family and spend our time walking the incredibly long beach as dolphins and manta rays swim by. In addition to beach time, we fish off the town pier, visit the zoo, golf, take a boat tour out of Tin City, where we’ve spotted bald eagles and had pelicans sit inches from us. Marco Island makes a great day trip too; it’s really cool, tropical and beautiful. We love to eat right on the water in one of the many places in Tin City, and while this may sound crazy, we like doing to Publix, the grocery store. It’s fun to shop in a totally different grocery store (they have great pub cheese spread) and make a home-cooked meal. When we visit in March, we always go to a Red Sox spring training game in Fort Meyers, which is 45 minutes to the north, and they have a fabulous St. Patrick’s Day parade that rivals many in Massachusetts. - Russ Grady, Clinton

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BAYSTATEPARENT 13

OH, THE

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GO

Congratulations! Today is your day. You’re off to Great Places! You’re off and away! paul robicheau

- dr. seuss

courtesy of the stone zoo

courtesy of trevels.org

GO REVELS: Sanders Theatre at Harvard University, Cambridge, teems with singers, fools, giants, dragons, medieval knights, Renaissance dancers and Victorian masquers during16 festive holiday performances. Sing along! Great for all ages. revels.org. 14 DECEMBER2010

courtesy of tsesame street live

GO 2010: Hello 2011! First Night Boston offers a spectacular New Year’s Eve celebration featuring a family festival at the Hynes from 1 - 5 p.m., a Grand Procession at 5 p.m. and fireworks at 7 p.m. For button information and a complete schedule, visit firstnight.org.

GO ZOOLIGHTS: Make your way to Santa’s castle through tree-lined paths lit by thousands of twinkling lights. The Stone Zoo’s magical ZooLights’ exhibit sparkles all month long. stonezoo.org.

GO ELMO AND FRIENDS: Live from Worcester! It’s Sesame Street! All your child’s favorite characters wiggle right into Wormtown, December 29th - January 2nd. thehanovertheatre.org.

MELTDOWN WARNING: Before you pack up the mini-van, please confirm your destination. Although we’ve done our best to assure accuracy at press time, things can and do change… A Adult C Child Y Youth M Member NM Non-Member PP Per Person

1WEDNESDAY Special Evening Shopping Event (Holiday Sale). Danforth Museum of Art, 123 Union Ave., Framingham. Call for hours: 508-620-0050, danforthmuseum.org. Holiday Nature Crafts. Garden in the Woods, 180 Hemenway Rd., Framingham. Learn how to use “gifts” found in nature to create gifts for friends and families for the holidays: string seed pods and cranberries to make chains for a tree or to feed the birds. Set up a natural print shop to make wrapping paper, gift tags, and greeting cards. Pot up a topiary wreath that will continue growing for years. For children in grades 1-4. $16. Registration required. Call for times: 508-877-7630, x 3303; newfs.org. FREE Wee Care Infant Oral Health Program. Melvin “Dr. Mel” Ehrlich, D.D.S., 223 Walnut St., Ste. 22, Framingham. 10 a.m. Children under 3 will get examination designed to help parents assure a cavity-free child. Register: 508-875-KIDS(5437), WeeCareAtDrMels. com. This occurs every month so call for January and February times.

2THURSDAY Celebrating Hanukkah. The Discovery Museums. 177 Main St., Acton. 10 a.m. Celebrate the first day of Hanukkah featuring a storytelling of Light the Candles by Joan Holub. Afterwards, make your own flame hat and play a game of dreidel. A/C $10.50pp. 978-264-4200, discoverymuseums.org. Painting with Santa. PYOP STUDIO, INC., 290 W. Main St., Northborough. Various times: 10 – 11:30, 12 – 1:30, 2 – 3:30, 4 – 5:30, 6 – 7:30. Skip the lines and the crowds at the malls. Santa’s coming! Easy parking. Paint 3 ornaments, decorate 3 cookies, meet and take pictures with Santa (you bring your camera), and story time with Santa. $38 per child. pyopstudio.com. Snowman/Tree/Reindeer Plate Workshop. Claytime Paint Your Own Pottery Studio, 124 Boston Turnpike, Shrewsbury. 5:30 – 7:30 p.m. Paint a winter holiday oval serving plate (Paint 1, 2 or all 3 styles). $30 for one. 508798-9950, claytimestudio.com. 13th Annual Festival of (Giving) Trees. LaSalle Reception Center at Notre Dame Church. 444 Main St., Southbridge. Thurs., Dec. 2 – Sun., Dec. 5, 1 – 5 p.m. Celebrate the holidays by walking through a magical winter wonderland featuring over 100 sparkling, uniquely decorated holiday trees. Take chances to win them! Proceeds benefit the fight against breast cancer, specifically the Massachusetts Breast Cancer Coalition, the Silent Spring Institute and the Harrington Memorial Hospital Cancer Center in Southbridge. Live entertainment throughout the day and refreshments, provided by Margaux’s Deli. $2 Thurs.; $3 Fri. - Sun.; C (under 12) FREE. sparklingtrees.com.

3FRIDAY 2010 Holiday Drawing Contest. All Borders store locations in Massachusetts. Dec. 3 – 5, 10 a.m. - 9 p.m. Kids under the age of 15 can participate. The grand prize winner

will have his or her artwork reproduced on a 2011 May Institute Holiday Card to be sold online and at Borders® stores throughout Massachusetts. No entry fee. Family entertainment, giveaways, activities and more. All contest submissions must be hand-delivered to any Borders store on May Institute’s Benefit Days at Borders on December 3-5, 2010. To download the Holiday Drawing Contest Form with official rules and regulations, visit mayinstitute.org/ events/holiday_drawing_contest.html. 781-437-1287, mayinstitute.org. A Season to Dance. Regent Theatre, 7 Medford St., Arlington. 7:30 p.m. Enjoy the Legacy Dancers’ annual holiday show, featuring hip-hopping elves, tapping grannies dancing toys and more. A$15; C (12 and under) $10. A portion of the proceeds benefit a local charity. 781-6464849, regenttheatre.com. A Christmas Carol. North Shore Music Theatre. 62 Dunham Rd., Beverly. 2 & 8 p.m. Runs through Dec. 31st. Based on the Charles Dickens classic, this original adaptation of the traditional holiday favorite tells the tale of curmudgeonly miser Ebenezer Scrooge, who is visited by three ghosts who hope to change his destiny and save his soul. A/C $40 and up. 978-232-7200, nsmt.org.

courtesy of new england wildflower society/garden in the woods

OH,THEPLACESYOU’LLGO

FREE Holiday Open House. Old South Meeting House, 310 Washington St., Boston. 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. daily. Ring in the holidays at the Meeting House! Tour the beautiful 1729 building. Enjoy light refreshments and festive entertainment. Shop for unique and affordable gifts in our Museum Shop. 617-482-6439, osmh.org. Also Dec. 4. The Urban Nutcracker. Wheelock Family Theatre, Boston. Dec. 3 – 19. Set in contemporary Boston, Urban Nutcracker presents a multicultural interpretation of the 19th century fairy tale fusing ballet, swing, hip hop, and urban tap with the classical score of Tchaikovsky and the pulsating beat of Duke Ellington. Tickets: $20$50. Order online through wheelockfamilytheatre.org or by calling 617-879-2300. More info can be found at urbannutcracker.org. Radio City Christmas Spectacular. Citi Performing Arts Center Wang Theatre. 270 Tremont St., Boston. Dec. 3 – 29. Children of all ages will be enchanted by live holiday entertainment as teddy bears dance, wooden soldiers come to life, reindeer fly, Santa and his elves prepare for their biggest night of the year, and the Radio City Rockettes perform their fancy footwork and eye-high kicks. $79.50 to $25. 866-348-9738, citicenter.org/rockettes. FREE Family Night. Children’s Museum of New Hampshire. 6 Washington St., Dover, NH. 5:30 – 8 p.m. The museum will be open to all families as a special opportunity for parents or grandparents to spend time playing and learning with the children in their lives. 603-742-2002, childrensmuseum.org. 5th Annual Holly Berry Craft Faire. Fitchburg Art Museum 25 Merriam Parkway, Fitcbhurg. 4 – 8 p.m. Home accessories, designer fashions, artisan jewelry, handcrafted holiday décor and one-of-a-kind handcrafted gifts. Free with paid admission. 978-345-4207, fitchburgartmuseum.org. Annual Nantucket Christmas Stroll Weekend. Dec. 3- 5, various times. An old-fashioned holiday celebration featuring over 150 decorated Christmas trees throughout town, Victorian carolers, bell-ringers, theatrical productions, craft shows, house tour, Mr. & Mrs. Claus, antique auctions, concerts, art exhibitions, Festival of Trees and much more! Christmas Stroll is part of the month-long celebration, Nantucket Noel, that runs through Dec. 31st. NantucketNoel.com. Holiday Invitation Nights. Downtown Newburyport. Also on Dec. 10. 6 – 9 p.m. Holiday shopping with merchant hospitality. Live entertainment and holiday spirit. 978-462-6680, newburyportchamber.org. FREE 9th Annual Festival of Trees. Rutland Historical Society, 232 Main St., Rutland. Dec., 3, 7:30 p.m, Dec. 4, 4 – 8 p.m., Dec. 5, 1 – 4 p.m. Festivities begin on Dec. 3 with a holiday concert by the Merrimack Valley Ringers followed by a Brownie Sundae Social at the Congregational Church. On Dec. 4th, the spectacular Festival of Trees opens in the Town Library. Santa can be found surrounded by Mrs. Claus and his elves at the back of the library. A

Learn how to use “gifts” found in nature to create holiday presents for families and friends. Dec. 1, Framingham. newfs.org. Friendship Supper will be served from 5 – 7:30 p.m. at the Congregational Church. At 6 p.m. the Congregational Church will open for carol singing and the reading of the names honored by the Light of Love. The 20th Annual Lighting of Rutland’s Tercentenary Tree will be held at 6:30 p.m. On Dec. 5th, the festivities continue from 1 – 4 p.m. with The Festival of Trees and Santa at the Library. Also during this time there will be rides on an Antique Fire Truck at the Old Fire Barn and Horse and Wagon Rides in front of the Library. $6 suggested donation. rutlandmahistorical.org/ festival.html, 508-886-6668. 13th Annual Festival of (Giving) Trees. LaSalle Reception Center at Notre Dame Church, Southbridge. See Dec. 2 for details. Runs through Dec. 5. Festival of Trees. The Massachusetts Horticultural Society, 900 Washington St., Wellesley. Runs through Dec. 4. 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. This indoor exhibit is for all ages to see spectacularly decorated holiday trees in a festive environment. A$8, C under 12 free. 617-933-4995, masshort.org. Fiddler on the Roof Jr. Children’s Theatre Workshop. Wilmington Middle School, 25 Carter Lane, Wilmington. 7 p.m. Also Sat., Dec. 4, 7 p.m. and Sun., Dec. 5, 2 p.m. A/C $7. 978-988-0081, ctwkids.org.

4SATURDAY FREE 6th Annual Holiday Fair. Mary D. Stone School, 10 Church St., Auburn. 9 a.m – 2 p.m. Crafters and vendors, free supervised Kids Zone with games, crafts and storytelling and a special holiday shop for kids. The breakfast and lunch cafe will be open all day. Don’t forget to bring your own camera for free photos with Santa between 11 a.m – 1 p.m! 508-832-9857. A Season to Dance. Regent Theatre, 7 Medford St., Arlington. 10:30 a.m, 1:30 p.m. Enjoy the Legacy

Dancers’ annual holiday show, featuring hip-hopping elves, tapping grannies, dancing toys and more. A $15, C $10. 781-646-4849, regenttheatre.com. FREE Breakfast and Santa Photos. Great Brook Farms, Route 117, Bolton. 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Take your own pictures with Santa (He has a real beard and all) in a beautiful little scene. Afterwards enjoy a breakfast/brunch. Also bring a Toy for Tot to Great Brook Farms this holiday season. 978779-6680. FREE Holiday Open House. Old South Meeting House, 310 Washington St., Boston. See Dec. 3 listing for details. The Velveteen Rabbit. Boston Children’s Theatre. Bate’s Hall Theatre, 316 Huntington Ave., Boston. Dec. 4 – 19, various days, 2 p.m. Actors and puppets bring to life the enchanting world of the popular children’s story in Burgess Clark’s warm adaptation featuring original music and puppets created by Marjorie Tudor of the Tasha Tudor family. Showtimes include: Dec. 4, 5, 11, 12, 18 and 19, 2 p.m. $20 per ticket. 617-424-6634, bostonchildrenstheatre.org. Open Artists Studios. Brimfield. Visit 13 art studios and meet the artists in Brimfield, Fiskdale, Holland, Monson, Palmer and Wales. Also, enjoy the sound of the Bells at Hitchcock Academy at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Hitchcock Academy: 413-245-9977. FREE Visit with Santa at Verrill Farm, 11 Wheeler Rd., Concord. 3 – 5 p.m. Santa will be in the heated greenhouse at Verrill Farm welcoming kids and families. Visit with him with your Christmas wish list. Take pictures with Santa, so bring your camera! Complimentary refreshments and live music, including holiday favorites, by Two for the Show. 978-369-4494, verrillfarm.com. It’s A Wonderful Life the Musical. North Shore Players Community Theater. Hogan Regional Auditorium, 6 Hathorne Circle, Danvers. Dec 4, 10, 11 at 7:30 p.m.; Dec 5 and 12 at 2 p.m. A musical production based on the family holiday classic film by Frank Capra. The production is staged with a cast of adult and youth performers from BAYSTATEPARENT 15

OH,THEPLACESYOU’LLGO across the North Shore of Massachusetts. A$15, C$12. 978590-7290, northshoreplayers.org. FREE Gingerbread Fair. First Parish Unitarian Church. 2 Main St., Hubbardston. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Huge Chinese auction, spices,candy, home-baked goods, crafts, silent auction. Luncheon is $8 per adult. 978-928-5822, hubbardstonunitarian.org. St. Thomas Craft Fair. 974 Main St., Route 109, Millis. Santa will be on hand! busybusyfingers@verizon.net. FREE Reindeer Hat Craft for Kids 3+. Lakeshore Learning Store, Newton and Saugus. 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. lakeshorelearning.com. Make a gingerbread ornament on Dec. 11 and a New Year’s Popper on Dec. 18.

Christmas Tea. Hawthorne Hotel, 18 Washington Square, Salem. 2 – 4 p.m. The historic Nathaniel’s Restaurant at Hawthorne Hotel is pleased to offer a warm and elegant place to relax for those ready for a spot of tea or refreshments. A$20. 978-745-0799, christmasinsalem.org. 13th Annual Festival of (Giving) Trees. LaSalle Reception Center at Notre Dame Church, Southbridge. See Dec. 2 for details. Runs through Dec. 5. Sutton Chain of Lights. Vaillancourt Folk Art, 9 Main St., Sutton. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Vaillancourt Folk Art joins several groups and organizations in the Town of Sutton as they all participate in the towns Chain of Lights celebration. Hop on the trolley and come on by. chainoflights.com.

Begin your holiday celebrations with a visit with Saint Nicholas. Discover the history behind Santa Claus and explore the Christmas celebrations in the Middle Ages. Crafts, storytelling and fun for the whole family. A$10, C$7. 508-853-6015, higgins.org.

Festival of Trees. The Massachusetts Horticultural Society, 900 Washington St., Wellesley. Runs through Dec. 4. 10 a.m. - 8 p.m. This indoor exhibit is for all ages to see spectacularly decorated holiday trees in a festive environment. A$8, C under 12 free. 617-933-4995, masshort.org.

FREE Fire Works Holiday Open Studios. The Sprinkler Factory, 38 Harlow St., Worcester. 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Over 15 ceramic artists present their work and show you their studios. Come see what’s new and take home a handmade treasure. Only open twice a year. Don’t miss it. thefireworksinc.net.

Holiday Haul. Community Nursery School. 26 Central St., West Boylston. 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Vendors and local crafters including: Scholastic Book Fair, Usborne Books, Discovery Toys, American Girl Clothes, Tupperware, pottery, jewelry, handbags, wreaths, Christmas items, primitives and Americana, homemade soup and Santa (bring your cameras!). A $2pp, C (under 12) FREE.

5SUNDAY Celebrating Hanukkah. The Discovery Museums. 177 Main St., Acton. 10 a.m. Come celebrate the first day of Hanukkah! Hear Light the Candles by Joan Holub. Afterwards, make your own flame hat and play a game of dreidel. A/C $10.50. 978-264-4200, discoverymuseums.org.

Annual Nantucket Christmas Stroll Weekend. Dec. 3- 5, various times. See Dec. 3 listing for details. Kid’s Holiday Shop. The Children’s Museum in Easton, North Easton. 12 – 5 p.m. All items are $2 or less. Volunteers are on hand to help children select and wrap a perfect gift for mom, dad, friends, and family. The shop is recommended for ages 3-10, and children must be able to enter without a parent; no exceptions! Also decorate a cookie, make a craft and listen to the story The Gingerbread Man between 1 -4 p.m. both days. The Gingerbread Man will make appearances, so bring a camera! Enjoy special discounted admission the weekend of the 4th/5th only (50% off regular admission prices.)Admission is regularly $6. 508230-3789. childrensmuseumineaston.org. Also Dec. 5.

FREE 6th Annual Holiday on the Green. The Pine Hills. Village Green, Plymouth. 2 – 6 p.m. Enjoy a host of holiday activities including visits with Santa, seasonal shopping, crafts, a petting zoo, carolers, treats, a treelighting and a 3 p.m. “Reindog” Parade. 508-209-2000, pinehills.com. FREE Festival of Trees and More. Town Library, 280 Main St., Rutland. 4 – 8 p.m. Activities and Santa in his Magic House, along with rides on the Fire Department’s antique firetruck and horse and buggy rides for all. 508886-6668 or 508-886-6264. See Dec. 3 for more details. Candlelight Tour & Dearborn Street Illumination. Downtown area. Salem. 10 a.m.- 4:30 p.m. and Sun., Dec. 5 from 11:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. All houses will be open for tours with complimentary trolley service available. Learn the history and unique character of these elegant antique homes both inside and out while enjoying all the holiday season has to offer. Tickets for the house tours can be purchased at the Tabernacle Congregational Church, 50 Washington St., on December 4 and 5 for $35 each. 978745-0799, christmasinsalem.org. Also Dec. 5.

16 DECEMBER2010

courtesy of verrill farm, concord

Drop and Shop. PYOP STUDIO, INC, 290 W. Main St., Northborough. 6 – 8:30 p.m. Have your kids come in their PJ or comfy clothing if they want. It is time for them to have fun while you get to go shopping, out to eat, or even go to the movies without the kids. Eat pizza and paint 2 pieces of pottery. $40 first child; $35 additional child. 508-393-3100, pyopstudio.com. Also Dec. 10.

Special Art Sunday. The Eric Carle Picture Book Art Museum, Amherst. 1 – 4 p.m. Always a surprise and always messy! Admission applies. carlemuseum.org.

It’s my dream house! Work with a chef to create your dream gingerbread house, Dec. 5 & 11, Verrill Farm, Concord. verrillfarm.com. St. Anne’s Church Christmas Fair. St. Anne’s Church, Sutton. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Cookie decorating, model trains, mini golf, and more. Stay for lunch at the Gingerbread Cafe. Post office gifts, raffle, “wheel of fortune” game, cookie stroll. The fair is part of Sutton’s annual Chain of Lights celebration. Park your car and take a trolley to other events. suttonma.org. FREE 3th Annual Uxbridge First Holiday Night Santa Parade. Uxbridge Town Common. Main Street and Douglas St., Uxbridge. 4 – 8 p.m. The parade departs from Elm St., North Uxbridge, starting at 4:30 p.m.. The Douglas High School Marching Band will lead the parade and stop at the Common, where Santa will illuminate the Common with holiday spirit by lighting the trees. Santa will then proceed to the Center Fire Station, where he will greet the children and hand out presents until 8 p.m. uxbridgeholidaynight.org. Santa Tea. Gore Place, Waltham. 10:30 a.m. (Also on Dec. 11 and 18). Children and adults enjoy morning tea with scones, sandwiches and treats in a beautiful mansion followed by crafts, a Santa story (read by Santa) and a sing-a-long. $35 pp. Seating is limited. Advance tickets required at least one week in advance: 781-894-2798. goreplace.org.

Clara’s Dream - A Nutcracker Story. The Hanover Theatre For The Performing Arts, 20 Southbridge St., Worcester. Sat., Dec. 4, 7:30 p.m. Presented by The Hybrid Movement Company of New York City and Dance It Up! of North Grafton. Features youth aerial dance performances for the 1st time in the history of American theatrical production. A new 21st century experience of The Nutcracker told in a “hybrid” of performance arts and multimedia with a youth cast of over 100. It is a visual delight where fairies fly and Clara drifts through the air into a land of snowflakes and follows her prince to a kingdom of sweets. $25 - $30. 508-839-1648, thehanovertheatre.org. Shamrock & Holly Fair. Worcester Hibernian Cultural Centre, 19 Temple St., Worcester. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Unique hand-crafted items made by local (Massachusetts) artisans will be featured as well as some Irish clothing and gifts. Some items can be personalized, too. Food! Free parking and admission. Donations welcome. Proceeds from the fair benefit the charitable works of Division 36 of the Ladies’ and Men’s Ancient Order of Hibernians. E-mail: irishworcester@gmail.com. Christmas in the Middle Ages. Higgins Armory Museum, 100 Barber Ave., Worcester. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.

The Velveteen Rabbit. Boston Children’s Theatre.Bate’s Hall Theatre, 316 Huntington Ave., Boston. Dec. 4 – 19. See Dec. 4 listing for details. Gingerbread House Workshops. Verrill Farm, 11 Wheeler Rd., Concord. 9:30 and 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. Tips from the Farm Stand chefs on decorating a gingerbread house. Participants receive: assembled, undecorated gingerbread house on a 12” card board, frosting (gingerbread and frosting made in the farm stand kitchen) and candy for trim. $35 per house. Children under 10 must be accompanied by an adult (who is free). Please, only one adult per child. Sign up: 978-369-4494, verrillfarm.com. Also Dec. 11. FREE Apple Tree Arts Holiday Concert. Evangelical Congregational Church, 30 Grafton Common, Grafton. 2:30 p.m. Features Apple Tree Arts Community Chorus singing a mix of traditional carols, contemporary music and light holiday fare. 508-839-4286, appletreearts.org. Grafton Celebrates the Holidays. Historic Grafton Common. Numerous events all over town including a craft fair and brunch at the Municipal Center from 10 a.m – 3 p.m. The day is capped off by the tree lighting on the common (4:30 p.m.). Drop off food for the Grafton Food Bank and Toys for Tots. grafton-ma.gov. Nutcracker Theme Workshop with Kira Seamon. Dancing Arts Center, 9 Whitney St., Holliston. 1-3 p.m. for 3-4 year-olds and 3:30-5:30 p.m. for 5-8-year olds. Experience the fantastic music of the “Party Scene”, participate in the funniest “Battle between the Toy Soldiers and the Mouse King”, and revel in the timeless elegance of the “Sugar Plum Fairy Variation.” All dance choreography is age-appropiate and appealing to children. $15 per child. 508-429-7577, dancingartscenter.com. FREE 3rd Annual Christmas Spirit Day. Assumption School, Church Parish Hall, 17 Grove St., Millbury. 12 – 4 p.m. In conjunction with the town’s annual Chain

Gymnastics Pre - K Meet Up Group. Over The Top Gymnastics Academy, 11 McKeon Rd., Worcester. 1 – 2:30 p.m. Play with other kids, explore different types of gymnastics and play on all the equipment. Ages 6 months to 6 years are welcome. $10 per visit or 5 for $40 (adults are free). 508-752-7676, meetup.com/ Over-the-Top-Gymnastics-Academy. Readers: There are pre-k drop-in hours are also on Mondays from 12-1:30 p.m.

OH,THEPLACESYOU’LLGO of Lights festivities. Features a “store” filled with gently used toys, books, baby items, as well as adult and children clothing - all FREE OF CHARGE. Items have been donated and are clean, in good condition and ready to find new homes just in time for Christmas. Make cards for soldiers or the homebound, sing Christmas carols with Assumption students, share a complimentary hot chocolate or popcorn to celebrate the season. 508-865-5404.

9THURSDAY

Annual Nantucket Christmas Stroll Weekend. Dec. 3- 5, various times. See Dec. 3 listing for details. Kid’s Holiday Shop. The Children’s Museum in Easton, North Easton. See Dec. 4 listing for details. courtesy of the bay colony dog show

FREE Annual Candlelight Concert. The Friends of the Princeton Public Library at the First Congregational Church, Princeton. 6 – 7 p.m. Reception to follow at the library. 978-464-2115. FREE 9th Annual Festival of Trees. Rutland. See Dec. 3 listing for more details. Northshore Holiday Gift & Craft Fair. Parties Over Boston/Northshore Gift Fair. The Salem Waterfront Hotel, 225 Derby St., Salem. 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Showcases the work of local and regional artists including painters, sculptors, jewelry designers, weavers along with area retailers and vendors. Includes various activities for kids including ornament making, free photos with Santa, live music and more! There will also be a wrapping station for a small donation. A$3, C FREE. 781-913-3523, northshoregiftfair.com.

“We promise we’ll take care of him!” You know they want a puppy for Christmas. Bring your dog lovers to the Providence Bay Colony Dog Show, Dec. 9 - 12, in Providence, RI. Pleeeaaasee. baycolonydogshow.com. Open Play for Infants – Age 9. Playtown Express, 25 South St., Hopkinton. 9:30 – 2:30 p.m. Open every day but Sunday (T, W, F, S: 9:30 to 4:30; Thursdays open until 6 p.m.) Inflatables (including toddler area), large climbing structure, five themed playhouses with toys, matted infant area, mini roller coaster. $10 per child (adults free with child). playtownexpress.com.

Candlelight Tour & Dearborn Street Illumination. Downtown area. Salem. See Dec. 4 listing for details. 13 Annual Festival of (Giving) Trees. Southbridge. See Dec. 2 for details. Runs through Dec. 5. th

Holiday Stress Buster. Adventure Boot Camp, LLC. Phelan Center, 551 Pleasant St., Worcester. 5:30 - 6:30 a.m. Need to work out the stress of the holidays? Join Adventure Boot Camp for a challenging hour workout. Exercises include circuits, weight training, obstacle courses, plyometrics and more! Call for fees. 508-579-6064, AdventureBootCampLLC.com.

FREE Student Concert. Clark University: Traina Center for the Arts Razzo Hall, 92 Downing St., Worcester. 3 – 4:30 p.m. An afternoon of concertos, sonatas, chamber works and jazz standards. Open to all. E-mail clarkarts@clarku.edu. FREE Eisenberg’s Annual Vendor Fair and Raffles. The Eisenberg Assisted Living Residence, 631 Salisbury St., Worcester. 1 – 5 p.m. Vendor tables and raffles. 508757-0981 x6106, jewishhealthcarecenter.com.

7TUESDAY

FREE Power Yoga Class. Central Mass Yoga and Wellness. 45 Sterling St. ,#28, West Boylston. 11 am. Power Yoga with Cheryl Ross. All abilities welcome, but wear comfortable clothes! 508-835-1176, centralmassyoga.com, yogawarriors.com.

Rosa’s Recipe. The Children’s Museum in Easton, North Easton. 2 – 2:45 p.m. Sample a new dish each month, learn about the healthy ingredients and take home the recipe so you can share it with friends and family!Rosa Galeno, local chef and healthy eating expert, has designed these programs to help children learn about food and making healthy choices. $6pp. 508-230-3789, childrensmuseumineaston.org.

6MONDAY Pictures with Santa. Mothers & More. Worcester County Chapter of Mothers & More, Auburn Mall, 385 Southbridge St., Auburn. 11 a.m. All moms from the Worcester County area are invited for photos with Santa and a fun activity. mothersandmore.org/chapters/worcestercounty/.

Zoolights throughout December! Stone Zoo, Stoneham. Ends Sun., Jan. 2. Stroll along tree-lined paths lit by thousands of twinkling lights. Visit with Santa in

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his Castle and enter a magical world filled with fairy tale characters and dancing plush animals. Weeknight: $5pp, Under 2 free; Weekend: $6pp, Under 2 free. stonezoo.org. Pediatric First Aid. Mothers and Company, West Boylston. 7 – 9:30 p.m. Taught by an American Heart Association CPR/First Aid instructor and mom of 3, you will get practical and up-to-date information and be better prepared to handle emergencies. Appropriate for parents, grandparents, babysitters and anyone who wants to be prepared and cares for children. $40 per couple. mothersandcompany.com.

A Magical Morning with Santa. The Discovery Museums, 177 Main St., Acton. 11 a.m – 12 p.m. Santa will be on hand to greet children, listen to wish lists, pose for photos and deliver a small present to each girl and boy. Children can make holiday ornaments and decorate cookies with the mascot, Bessie the dinosaur! Space is limited. Preregistration and payment required. C $25 NM. Contact Amy Spencer at 978-264-4200 x28 or discoverymuseums.org. The Gingerbread Man. Drumlin Farm, Lincoln. 3:30 – 5 p.m. Design and decorate your very own gingerbread man. While he’s baking, hear about his exciting adventures escaping from cows and pigs. Then pay a visit to his “friend,” the fox. $15pp. Register: 781-259-2200, drumlinfarm@massaudubon.org. Providence’s Bay Colony Dog Show. Rhode Island Convention Center, One Sabin St., Downtown Providence, RI. Dec. 9 – 12. 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sponsored by Pedigree, this four-day all-breed American Kennel Club dog show promotes responsible dog breeding and ownership. Kids will enjoy Bailey’s Kids Korner with toys, magazines and coloring books, and this year’s event features a chance for kids to meet Santa on the weekend. Meet dog breeders, groomers, handlers and owners. No dogs please. A$12, C (under 12)$7. Visit baycolonydogshow.com for schedules and coupons. Adventures in Toileting. Mothers and Company, West Boylston. 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Offers moms and dads advice, support, strategies and tools to help facilitate toileting. $25 per family (meaning two parents in one family). Babies in arms welcome. Led by Jennifer Lynch, who has led this workshop many times at Mothers & Company and gets RAVE reviews! mothersandcompany.com.

8WEDNESDAY Fireside Fables. Drumlin Farm, Lincoln. 3:30 – 5 p.m. Relax by a crackling fire and hear stories of farm and woodland creatures. Meet some of the main characters of our stories. Enjoy games, songs, snacks and crafts to go with our stories. If the weather permits, venture outdoors to explore. Registration required: $12pp. 781-259-2200, drumlinfarm@massaudubon.org. Lil’ Kids Club Play Group. Boys and Girls Club of Woburn. 1 Charles Gardner Lane, Woburn. 9:30 – 11:30 am. A drop-in, age appropriate playgroup for Tot/PreK children age 5 and under. Held inside the gym and activities include blocks, slides, trampolines, ride-on toys & much more. Children MUST be accompanied by parent/guardian. C $2. 781-935-3777, bgcwoburn.org.

10FRIDAY FREE Enchanted Village. Jordan’s Furniture, Avon. Through Jan. 1. Mon. - Fri., Nooon – 8 p.m.; S at., 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sun., 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. 28 fully decorated holiday scenes with 250 “magically” animated figures. Visit with Santa Claus each day. 508-580-4600. Craftboston Holiday 2010. Cyclorama, Historica South End, 539 Tremont St., Boston. 10 a. m. - 8 p.m. (Also Dec. 11, 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. and Dec. 12, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.). Contemporary crafts from 90 artists. 617-266-1810, craftboston.org. The Polar Express. Mahaiwe Performing Arts Center,14 Castle St., Great Barrington. 6 p.m. An adventure which

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follows a doubting young boy, who takes an extraordinary train ride to the North Pole; during this ride, he embarks on a journey of self-discovery which shows him that the wonder of life never fades for those who believe. A/C $6. 413-528-0100, mahaiwe.org. Holiday Invitation Nights. Downtown Newburyport. Also on Dec. 10. 6 – 9 p.m. Holiday shopping with merchant hospitality. Live entertainment and holiday spirit. 978-462-6680, newburyportchamber.org. Drop and Shop. PYOP STUDIO, INC, 290 W. Main St., Northborough. 6 – 8:30 p.m. Have your kids come in their pjs (or comfy clothing). It is time for them to have fun while you get to go shopping, out to eat, or even go to the movies without the kids. Eat pizza and paint 2 pieces of pottery. $40 first child; $35 additional child. 508-393-3100, pyopstudio.com. Providence’s Bay Colony Dog Show. Rhode Island Convention Center, Downtown Providence, RI. Dec. 9 – 12. See Dec. 9 listing for details. Around the World. The Children’s Museum in Easton, North Easton. 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Jet off to a new country each month and explore the music, crafts and games of the land. You may even meet a special guest who will serve as your tour guide. $6pp. 508-230-3789, childrensmuseumineaston.org.

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Enter a world of wishes with your princess at Disney on Ice Princess Wishes in Boston, Dec. 26 - 29. tdbanknorthgarden.com.

FREE Nursing Beyond the First Year. Mothers and Company, West Boylston. Meets the second Friday of the month, 3 – 4:30 p.m. A monthly discussion group/playgroup for those who are continuing to breastfeed children over one year old or those who are considering it and curious to meet moms who are doing it. This is a free, drop-in group. Online RSVPs are helpful. mothersandcompany.com.

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What’s more creative than a kid (or an adult!) with an idea and a paintbrush? Flexible schedule and incredible variety running through the winter. Classes start 1/20/11 (adult) and 1/12/11 (youth/teen). For details and registration, visit worcesterart.org or call 508.793.4333. From FUNdamentals of Sculpture to The Art of Fashion‌ WAM has it all.

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11SATURDAY The Velveteen Rabbit. Boston Children’s Theatre, Bate’s Hall Theatre, 316 Huntington Ave., Boston. Dec. 4 – 19. See Dec. 4 listing for details. Craftboston Holiday 2010. Cyclorama, Historica South End, 539 Tremont St., Boston. 10 a.m. - 7 p.m. and Dec. 12, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.Contemporary crafts from 90 artists. 617266-1810, craftboston.org. Kitchen Science: Design Your Own Soda & Kamishibai - Japanese Storytelling. Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St., Boston. Kitchen Science: 11:30 a.m.– 1:30 p.m.; Japanese Storytelling: 11 a.m., 12 & 1 p.m. Use science skills to create a custom-made soda just for you! Also The Hats for Jizos’, a story on one New Year’s Eve. $12pp. 617-426-6500, bostonchildrensmuseum.org. Concord Band Holiday Pops. The Performing Arts Center, 51 Walden St., Concord. 8 p.m. Rene Pfister returns as guest soloist with the band and will lead the audience holiday singalong. The program features holiday favorites, hymn songs, folk music and carols from here and abroad. Snow date: Dec. 12, 2 p.m. A $20, C $15. 978-897-9969, concordband.org. Gingerbread House Workshops. Concord. See Dec. 5 listing for details. The Back Bay Ringers Holiday Concert: Let it Snow. Maple Street Church. 90 Maple St., Danvers. 7:30 p.m. The Back Bay Ringers, one of New England’s leading handbell ensembles, presents their annual holiday concert featuring holiday classics like White Christmas and In the Bleak Mid Winter, as well as original compositions for handbells. A $15. backbayringers.org.

The Nutcracker. Dance Prism. Littleton. Also on Dec. 12, Worcester; Dec. 18, 19, Andover. Kids, meet Clara and Nutcracker Prince after each performance. A$22, C$16. 978-371-1038, danceprism.com. Tanglewood Marionettes present “Hansel and Gretel.� Amazing Things Art Center, 160 Hollis St., Framingham. 2 p.m. Marionettists are in full view, so that the audience can witness firsthand the mechanics of puppet manipulation. Recommended for grades K-6. A/C $10. 508405-2787, amazingthings.org. Model Train Weekend. National Heritage Museum, 33 Marrett Rd., Lexington. 10 a.m.-4:30 p.m. and Noon – 4:30 p.m. This family-friendly event is a perfect holiday-season outing for adults and children of all ages. The HUB Division of the National Model Railroad Association presents miles of track with trains running on multiple main lines as they chug up mountain climbs, past coal mines, through small villages and into tunnels. Some engines pull 50 cars past hundreds of charming venues including icy lakes with skaters, snow-covered farms, and urban skyscrapers. The ever-popular Thomas the Tank Engine is here again this year! $7 per family. 781-861-6559. Also Dec. 12. Stars and Meteors at the Holidays. Mass Audubon’s Broadmoor Wildlife Sanctuary 280 Eliot St. (Rt.16), Natick. 7 – 9 p.m. Winter is one of the clearest times to look at the sky and with December comes the Geminid meteor shower. Just what is Orion’s belt and why can you only see it in the winter? What is the difference between a meteor and a star? Stars, meteors, snacks, and hot drinks. Member rates available. $15NM. 508-655-2296, massaudubon.org. FREE Gingerbread Ornament Craft for Kids 3+. Lakeshore Learning Store, Newton and

OH,THEPLACESYOU’LLGO Saugus. 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. lakeshorelearning.com. Make a New Year’s Popper on Dec. 18. Providence’s Bay Colony Dog Show. Rhode Island Convention Center, Downtown Providence, RI. Dec. 9 – 12. See Dec. 9 listing for details. Teddy Bear Tea. Chandlers Restaurant, Yankee Candle, 25 Greenfield Rd., South Deerfield. Bring your favorite teddy bear and have tea & lunch. Hear The Brown Paper Teddy Bear. Runs several times a month. Call for fees: 413-665-1277, chandlers.yankeecandle.com. Christmas Tea. Vaillancourt Folk Art, 9 Main St., Sutton. 1 – 2 p.m. An “Old World� Father Christmas will help you to celebrate the Christmas season! Enjoy tea or punch with various delicacies as Father Christmas reads Twas the Night Before Christmas. Reservations required as seating is limited. A$20, C$15. teawithsanta.com. Also Sun., Dec. 12. Santa Tea at Gore Place. Governor Gore Mansion, Waltham. See Dec. 4th listing for more details. Also Dec. 18. FREE Back Bay Ringers Holiday Family Concert. Wellesley Hills Congregational Church, 207 Washington St., Wellesley. 2 p.m. The Back Bay Ringers, one of New England’s leading handbell ensembles, will ring in the holiday season for local families with a matinee concert. Beloved carols, holiday sing-alongs, and hands-on handbell exploration. Free-will donations will be accepted. 617-8990825, backbayringers.org.

12SUNDAY Meet Santa! The Discovery Museums. 177 Main St., Acton. 1 – 2 p.m. Santa will deliver a small present to each girl and boy. Free with admission. A/C $10.50pp. 978-264-4200, discoverymuseums.org/upcoming-eventscalendar/2010-12-12.

FREE Family Concert “Goldilocks and the Three Bears.â€? Powers Music School at All Saints’ Church, 17 Clark St., Belmont. 3 and 5 p.m. Two free performances of Seymour Barab’s “Goldilocks and the Three Bearsâ€? and “Willie Was Differentâ€? (based on the story by Norman Rockwell). Hear chamber musicians play bassoon, clarinet, flute, oboe and piano in these free concerts. Reservations are required. Call 617-484-4696 x 16, powersmusic.org. Explore Collections. Boston Children’s Museum. 308 Congress St., Boston. 11:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Explore some of the Museum’s hidden treasures. $12pp. 617-4266500, bostonchildrensmuseum.org. The 237th Anniversary Boston Tea Party Annual Reenactment. Old South Meeting House, 310 Washington St., Boston. 5:30 pm. Take on the role of Patriot or Loyalist in this spirited reenactment of the Boston Tea Party. Hear from the likes of John Hancock, the richest man in Boston; Francis Rotch, owner of the ship Dartmouth; famed orator and doctor Joseph Warren; and notorious rabble rouser Samuel Adams. Then, witness firsthand the event that John Adams said “is so bold, so daring, so intrepid and so inflexible‌ that I can’t but consider it an epoch in history.â€? A/C $9. 800-838-3006, osmh.org. Craftboston Holiday 2010. Cyclorama, Historica South End, 539 Tremont St., Boston. 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. Contemporary crafts from 90 artists. 617-266-1810, craftboston.org. The Velveteen Rabbit. Boston Children’s Theatre. Bate’s Hall Theatre, 316 Huntington Ave., Boston. Dec. 4 – 19. See Dec. 4 listing for details. It’s A Wonderful Life the Musical. North Shore Players Community Theater. Danvers. 2 p.m. A$15, C$12. 978-590-7290, northshoreplayers.org. Family Holiday Sing-a-Long. Fitchburg Art Museum, 25 Merriam Parkway, Fitchburg. A fun, energetic concert and singalong by award-winning songwriter and musician David Polansky. Whether you celebrate Christmas, Hanukah or Kwanza, everyone from preschool to grandparents will

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Model Train Weekend. National Heritage Museum, Lexington. See Dec. 11 listing. Providence’s Bay Colony Dog Show. Rhode Island Convention Center, Downtown Providence, RI. Dec. 9 – 12. See Dec. 9 listing for details. FREE Celebration of Living Gifts. Heifer Learning Center at Overlook Farm, 216 Wachusett St., Rutland. 11 a.m. - 4 p.m.. Meet many of the animals, including sheep, pigs and goats that Heifer International provides to families in need around the world. Get inspired to give your family and friends Heifer gifts this holiday season. Take pictures with the animals as you make your Heifer donation. Other fun activities include making your own gingerbread animal cookies and enjoying hot cider or cocoa around a bonfire. Visitors are encouraged to bring canned food to be donated to the Worcester County Food Bank. 508-886-2221, heifer. org/overlookevents. FREE Celebration of Living Gifts. Heifer Learning Center at Overlook Farm, Rutland. 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. See Dec. 11 listing for details.

“elves� help families to the train station to board the Explorer Express Train for their own trip around the EcoTarium’s grounds. The December air feels festive and joyful as the children ring their bells along the route. After traveling the grounds, families head back indoors to warm up with hot cocoa and cookies -- and enjoy a special visit with Santa. Each child will have an opportunity to personally visit with Santa (bring cameras). $6pp plus museum admission, C under 1 FREE. ecotarium.org. FREE The New England Ringers Christmas Handbell Concert. Assumption College: Chapel of the Holy Spirit, 500 Salisbury St., Worcester. 7:30 – 9 p.m. Open to the public. 508-767-7508, assumption.edu.

13MONDAY Gymnastics Pre - K Meet Up Group. Over The Top Gymnastics Academy, 11 McKeon Rd., Worcester. 121:30 p.m. Play with other kids, explore different types of gymnastics and play on all the equipment. Ages 6 months to 6 years are welcome. $10 per visit or 5 for $40 (adults are free). 508-752-7676, meetup.com/ Over-the-Top-Gymnastics-Academy.

Christmas Tea. Vaillancourt Folk Art, Sutton. See Dec. 11 listing for details. Parents Night Out- Pajama Party with the PJ Library. The Boroughs JCC, 45 Oak St. , Westboro. 5 – 9 p.m. Fun crafts,yummy pizza, a good story and some exciting games will fill this special evening for your children. Ages 3 months to 12 years old. $20 per child. 508-3666121, x 24, boroughsjcc.org. A Christmas Journey. EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester. Saturdays and Sundays through Dec. 19: 12:30 – 1:30 p.m.; 1:30 – 2:30 p.m. and 2:30 – 3:30 p.m. An hour-long magical journey based on Chris Van Allsburg’s classic holiday tale The Polar Express. Beginning with storytime, the magic then comes alive as the EcoTarium’s

14TUESDAY FREE Enchanted Village-All Month Long! Jordan’s Furniture, Avon. Through Jan. 1. Mon. - Fri., Noon – 8 p.m.; S at., 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sun., 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. 28 fully decorated holiday scenes with 250 “magically� animated figures. Visit with Santa Claus each day. 508-580-4600. FOR PARENTS Yoga. Fitchburg Art Museum, 25 Merriam Parkway, Fitchburg. All levels. Reap the health benefits of yoga as you are guided through warm-up postures, yogic breathing, and relaxation. Drop-in class fee $14. Call for time: 978-345-4207, fitchburgartmuseum.org.

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15WEDNESDAY FREE Nights at the Museum (MFA). Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, 465 Huntington Ave.,Boston.Wednesday evenings in December after 5 p.m. State Street Corporation gives you more opportunities to see the new Art of the Americas wing and all that the MFA has to offer during “Nights at the Museum.� 617-267-9300, mfa.org. Drop-in Art Classes in Hopkinton. Sparks! Art Studio, 34 Main St., unit #2A, Hopkinton. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays for kindergarteners and grades 1 & 2, various times. $15pp. Please give 24 hours notice: 508450-0664, sparksartstudio.com. Graham Cracker Candy Houses. The Children’s Museum in Easton, North Easton. 1 – 3 p.m. The classic decoration for your mantel, table or counter. $3 plus $6 admission. 508-230-3789. Also visit childrensmuseumineaston.org for other days this event will be held in Decembe. Preschool and Toddler Wednesdays. EcoTarium, 222 Harrington Way, Worcester. 10:30 – 11:30 a .m. Storytime, craft activities, live animals and more--all for little ones aged 3 and under. New themes every week! Session one (story and animal): 10:30 a.m.; Session two (same story and animal): 11 a.m.; Drop-in craft time: 10:30 -11:30 a.m. Free with museum admission. ecotrarium.org. A Tree for All Seasons. Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, Worcester. 10 - 11 a.m. For ages 3 – 5 with adult. Story, activity and naturalist-led walk. $10 each child. Register: 508-753-6087 or bmbrook@massaudubon.org. Also on Dec. 16.

16THURSDAY Mercedes the Therapy Dog. The Discovery Museums. 117 Main St., Acton. 10 a.m. Come meet Mercedes and her handler, Christine Macdonald, from the Pets & People Foundation, and learn about people therapy through pets. Mercedes is a hypoallergenic, black Standard Poodle and she’s ready to greet you! A/C $10.50. 978-264-4200, discoverymuseums.org. Cloth Diaper Workshop. Mothers and Company, West Boylston. 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Back by popular demand, this workshop walks you through the benefits and quirks of each cloth diaper, accessories and how to wash them and live day-to-day with them. This workshop will rock your world and help you understand how easy, inexpensive, cute, environmentally-friendly and fun it is to use cloth diapers! The MoCo Shop will be open immediately following the workshop for shopping. Led by one of our cloth diaper gurus. mothersandcompany.com. Cirque du Soleil presents Dralion. DCU Center, Worcester. Dec. 16 – 19, varioius times, seven performances. The fusion of ancient Chinese circus traditions and the avant-garde style of Cirque du Soleil. The international cast features 52 world-class acrobats,

gymnasts, musicians, singers and comedic characters. Prices vary: $28- $79. 800-745-3000, cirquedusoleil.com/dralion. A Tree for All Seasons. Broad Meadow Brook Wildlife Sanctuary, Worcester. See Dec. 15 listing for details.

17FRIDAY A Portuguese Christmas. First Lutheran Church, 299 Berkeley St., Boston. 8 p.m. Vocal ensemble, Exsultemus, presents a festive program of music for the holiday season from Renaissance and Baroque Portugal. A/C $15 and up. 857-998-0219; exsultemus.org. 40th Anniversary Celebration of the Winter Solace. Sanders Theatre, 45 Quincy St., Cambridge. 7:30 p.m. Also performing on various dates; check the Web site for details. The Winter Revels celebrates its 40th anniversary filled with carols and rounds for all to sing, a hilarious mummers play, poetry, dances and period music from medieval, Renaissance and Victorian times. A $52, $42, $25, C $42, $32, $15. 617-496-2222, revels.org. Preschool Story Hour-Light and Candles. Wachusett Meadow, Princeton. 10:30 – 11:30 a.m. Ages 2.5 – 5. An hour of fun focusing on nature with a book, craft and walk. $10 per A/C pair. Register: 978-464-2712 or wachusett@ massaudubon.org The Best Christmas Pageant Ever. Stoneham Theater, 395 Main St., Stoneham. Through Dec. 23. This familyfriendly romp about a small-town Christmas Pageant that gets hijacked by the roughest, loudest, rowdiest kids in town. And just when the Pageant seems beyond all repair, the true spirit of Christmas is discovered in the most unexpected of ways. Average ticket: $38. 781-279-2200, stonehamtheater.org.

18SATURDAY The Velveteen Rabbit. Boston Children’s Theatre. Bate’s Hall Theatre, 316 Huntington Ave., Boston. Dec. 4 – 19. See Dec. 4 listing for details.

‘Tis the Season Holiday Show. Horace Mann Middle School. 224 Oak St., Franklin. 2 and 7:30 p.m. A musical extravaganza for the whole family, this show features traditional holiday tunes, original choreography and festive scenes, including Winter Wonderland and The North Pole. A/C $24-$28. 508-528-8668, franklin.ma.us/horacemann. Legally Blonde the Musical. Lowell Memorial Auditorium, Lowell. 8 p.m. Tickets: 978-454-2299, lowellauditorium.com. Full Moon Owl Prowl for All Ages. Broadmoor, 280 Eliot St., Natick. 4:30 – 5 p.m. Ages 6 – 16. Come with the whole family under the moon to learn about owl calls, behavior and habitat and search for frequent evening owl visitors, the screech owl and great horned owl. A$12, C$8. Register: 508-655-2296 or broadmoor@massaudubon.org. Holiday Sing-A-Long. Firehouse Center for the Arts, Market Square, Newburyport. 11 a.m. Join in song with your friends, neighbors and hear Terry Blanchard read “T’was the Night Before Christmas.â€? Then get your camera ready as the kids meet Santa in the lobby. Plan early‌it always sells out! A/C $3. 978-462-7336, firehouse.org. FREE New Year’s Popper Craft for Kids 3+. Lakeshore Learning Store, Newton and Saugus. 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. lakeshorelearning.com. Santa Tea at Gore Place. Governor Gore Mansion, Waltham. See Dec. 4th listing for more details.

various times. $15pp. Please give 24 hours notice: 508450-0664, sparksartstudio.com. Animal Happenings. The Children’s Museum in Easton, North Easton. 10 – 10:45 a.m. Enjoy an informal petting zoo and learn about animal friends and their care. Each week presenters will feature different live animals. $6pp. 508-230-3789. For other Animal Happenings dates, visit childrensmuseumineaston.org.

22WEDNESDAY Holiday Ornaments. The Discovery Museums. 117 Main St., Acton. 3 – 4:30 p.m. Art, math and science come together when you transform 2-D squares and triangles into cubes, tetrahedrons and other polygons. Use special patterns and your own imagination to create unique ornaments for the holiday season. A/C $10.50, 978-264-4200, discoverymuseums.org. FREE Nights at the Museum (MFA). Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, 465 Huntington Ave.Wednesday evenings in Dec. after 5 p.m. State Street Corporation gives you more opportunities to see the new Art of the Americas wing and all that the MFA has to offer during “Nights at the Museum.� 617-267-9300, mfa.org.

23THURSDAY

Holidays at the Higgins. The Higgins Armory Museum, 100 Barber Ave., Worcester. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Stroll through galleries and view the magnificent display of gingerbread castles created specifically for the Higgins by local bakers, caterers, restaurants and culinary students. Cast your ballot for your favorite. Holiday Music performed by Master Singers of Worcester: 1 p.m.performance plus engage in a children’s craft. A $10, C$7, Under 3 FREE. 508-853-6015 x 26, higgins.org.

Celebrating Kwanzaa. The Discovery Museums. 117 Main St., Acton. 10 a.m. Come celebrate Kwanzaa and join us for a storytelling of My First Kwanzaa by Karen Katz. Afterward, make your own Kwanzaa pasta necklace using the festive colors of black, red and green. A/C $10.50. 978-264-4200, discoverymuseums.org.

19SUNDAY

24FRIDAY

The Velveteen Rabbit. Boston Children’s Theatre. Bate’s Hall Theatre, 316 Huntington Ave., Boston. Dec. 4 – 19. See Dec. 4 listing for details.

Critter Day: Animal Experience. Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St., Boston. 11:15 a.m., 12:15 & 1:15 p.m. Look at some of your favorite critters in a whole new way. $12pp. 617-426-6500, bostonchildrensmuseum.org.

20MONDAY

Curious George Saturday Story Hour. Curious George Books and Toys, 1 JFK St., Cambridge. 12 p.m. Bring your infant or toddler for stories and snacks every Saturday. 617-498-0062, curiousgeorgestore.blogspot.com.

FREE Enchanted Village-All Month Long! Jordan’s Furniture, Avon. Through Jan. 1. Mon. - Fri., Noon – 8 p.m.; S at., 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sun., 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. 28 fully decorated holiday scenes with 250 “magically� animated figures. Visit with Santa Claus each day. 508-580-4600.

FREE 5th Annual Kendall Square Holiday On Ice. Community Ice Skating at Kendall Square, 300 Athanaeum St., Cambridge. 2 p.m. A free holiday ice skating show featuring some of Boston’s favorite professional and competitive skaters. Free public skating after the show. For more info, call the rink at 617-492-0941 or visit kendallsquare.org.

21TUESDAY

25SATURDAY

Drop-in Art Classes in Hopkinton. Sparks! Art Studio, 34 Main St., unit #2A, Hopkinton. Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays for kindergarteners and grades 1 & 2,

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26SUNDAY Disney On Ice presents Princess Wishes. TD Garden, Boston. Dec. 26 – 29. Cost: $20 - $90. 800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com. Vacation Week Fun. Higgins Armory Museum, 100 Barber Ave., Worcester. Dec. 26 – 30. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. (Sun., 12 - 4 p.m.)Explore the world of knights in shining armor, of princesses trapped in a castle, and of fire breathing dragons. Fun and excitement awaits you during school vacation week. Live demonstrations daily and art workshops. A$10, C$7. Full schedule: higgins.org.

27MONDAY School Vacation! Paperfest. Boston Children’s Museum. 308 Congress St., Boston. Dec. 27 – 30. 1 – 4 p.m. Fold it, fly it, make it and take it! Try new papercrafts and help break our record for longest paper chain. $12pp.. 617-426-6500, bostonchildrensmuseum.org. Disney On Ice presents Princess Wishes. TD Garden, Boston. Dec. 26 – 29. Cost: $20 - $90. 800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com. Christmas Festival is Still On! Edvaille, Carver. Ends Jan. 2. Weekdays, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Weekends, 2 – 9 p.m. See the largest display of lights in New England. Take a train ride. Ride other rides and more! A$18, C (under 12) $16. edaville.com. Vacation Week Fun. Higgins Armory Museum, Worcester. Dec. 26 – 30. See Dec. 26 listing for details. ZooLights is Still Open! Stone Zoo, Stoneham. Weeknights $5. stonezoo.org.

28TUESDAY The Nutcracker. Boston Ballet, Opera House, Boston. $35 and up. bostonballet.org. Disney On Ice presents Princess Wishes. TD Garden, Boston. Dec. 26 – 29. Cost: $20 - $90. 800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com. Toe Jam Puppet Band. Providence Children’s Museum, Providence, RI. 1 & 2 p.m. Features an original array of interactive songs, silly stories and playful puppets. You won’t believe your eyes as the audience gets caught in a raging snowstorm while the band plays on! Ages 3 – 11. $8.50pp. 401-273-5437, childrenmuseum.org. Last Week to See Bright Nights. Forest Park, Springfield. 5 – 9 p.m. (Sun.- Thurs.). Ends Jan. 2. Mon.

- Thurs. Thousands of twinkling lights and holiday displays! $15 per car. 413-733-3800. Admission discount online: brightnights.org.

29WEDNESDAY FREE Nights at the Museum (MFA). Museum of Fine Arts, Boston, 465 Huntington Ave., Boston.Wednesday evenings in December after 5 p.m. State Street Corporation gives you more opportunities to see the new Art of the Americas wing and all that the MFA has to offer during “Nights at the Museum.” 617-267-9300, mfa.org. Disney On Ice presents Princess Wishes. TD Garden, Boston. Dec. 26 – 29. Cost: $20 - $90. 800-745-3000 or ticketmaster.com. courtesy of old sturbridge village

OH,THEPLACESYOU’LLGO

World of Papercraft. Boston Children’s Museum, 308 Congress St., Boston. 2 – 4 p.m. Guest artists demonstrate papercraft from around the globe. $12pp. 617-426-6500, bostonchildrensmuseum.org. December Discovery Camp. Old Sturbridge Village, Sturbridge. Dec. 29 – 30, 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. Children taking part in this two-day camp will dress in period costume and enjoy several activities including making a tin lantern and creating a black ink line drawing based on original printed period invitations. $135pp (sibling discount). 978-347-3362, osv.org. Sesame Street Live 1-2-3 Imagine! with Elmo & Friends. The Hanover Theatre, Worcester. Wed., Dec. 29 – Sun., Jan. 2. $12 (opening night all seats are $12 - $65 (some packages include a meet and greet with the characters).877-571-7469, thehanovertheatre.org.

What was it like to live way back then? Find out at Old Strubridge Village’s Discovery Camp, Dec. 29 & 30. osv.org.

31FRIDAY

Vacation Week Fun. Higgins Armory Museum, Worcester. Dec. 26 – 30. See Dec. 26 listing for details.

30THURSDAY FREE Enchanted Village-All Month Long! Jordan’s Furniture, Avon. Through Jan. 1. Mon. - Fri., Noon – 8 p.m.; S at., 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Sun., 11 a.m. - 6 p.m. 28 fully decorated holiday scenes with 250 “magically” animated figures. Visit with Santa Claus each day. 508-5804600. Sparky’s Puppets. Providence Children’s Museum, Providence, RI. 1 & 2 p.m. Sparky’s Puppets perform favorite children’s stories with plenty of audience participation and humor for all ages. Laugh at the antics of “The Gingerbread Man,” “Little Red Riding Hood,” “The Three Pigs” and “The Three Billy Goats Gruff.” Ages 3 - 11 $8.50pp. 401-273-5437, childrenmuseum.org. Vacation Week Fun. Higgins Armory Museum, Worcester. Dec. 26 – 30. See Dec. 26 listing for details. Sesame Street Live 1-2-3 Imagine! with Elmo & Friends. The Hanover Theatre, Worcester. Wed., Dec. 29 – Sun., Jan. 2. thehanovertheatre.org.

First Night Boston. Noon – midnight. This exciting festival celebrates art and community throughout the area. There are over 1,000 artists and 250 performances to enjoy, including the Grand Procession to Boston Common and the annual fireworks over Boston Harbor. Explore the city and all types of art, music and dance performances as you ring in the New Year. Buttons: A/C $18 and up.617542-1399 , firstnight.org.

Non-stop New Year’s. The Children’s Museum in Easton, North Easton. 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Celebrate all day long with crafts, games, activities and shows. Magic shows at 11 a.m. and 1 and 3 p.m. Count down the New Year with confetti blasts at 12, 2 and 4 p.m. Food and Drink are available for purchase. No need to buy advance tickets- just pay at the door and stay and party for as long as you’d like! $10pp. 508-230-3789, childrensmuseumineaston.org. First Night Worcester: Come Play With Us! Noon – midnight. Music, art and entertainment for all ages, but also imaginative street painting and amazing trampoline stunts. Also, see Sesame Street Live at the Hanover Theatre. Tickets are $12 - $67, with ½ price buttons. Buttons: A $10 and up. Children under 7 free. firstnightworcester.org. Sesame Street Live 1-2-3 Imagine! with Elmo & Friends. The Hanover Theatre, Worcester. Wed., Dec. 29 – Sun., Jan. 2. thehanovertheatre.org.

20th Annual First Night Chatham. Noon – midnight. Musicians and artists to a circus and noise parade! Don’t miss the Countdown Cod Drop or the Finale Fireworks over Oyster Pond. Buttons: A $15, C $5 (ages 3-11). firstnightchatham.com. 26th Annual First Night Northampton. Noon – midnight. Start at the Celebration Circus with trained trapeze artists and acrobatics or make your way through downtown and relish in the art, music and dance shows. Buttons: A $16, C $8. 413-584-7327 or gazettenet.com/ firstnight.

Submit an Event For best results, fill out our form at baystateparent.com. Keep in mind, our deadline for January is Friday, December 3 at 6 p.m. E-mail calendar@baystateparent.com.

As Featured on “Chronicle”

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Brookline/Larz Anderson Brookline/Cleveland Circle Cambridge Hyde Park/Dedham Medford Newton/Brighton Quincy Somerville South Boston Waltham West Roxbury Weymouth

BAYSTATEPARENT 21

TAKEGOODCARE

TO GLUTEN

OR NOT

TO GLUTEN? Feeding Babies in Families With Celiac Disease BY

Making Memories Will Always be In Style Easy, Fun & Relaxing Way to Get Holiday Gift Giving Done

Visit www.claytimestudio.com for programs and monthly calendar of events

paint your own pottery & bead studio Route 9, Shrewsbury (Next to White City East) s (508)798-9950 22 DECEMBER2010

melanie zoltan

For most parents feeding a baby a teething biscuit is a non-moment. In our family, though, we debated, researched the topic in medical journals, asked a pediatrician and a gastroenterologist and steeped ourselves in journal articles, doubt and determination. We finally gave our youngest son, Daniel, the teething biscuit when he was 6 months old, and we made our choice based on the evidence at hand, because we can’t trust the gut. In our experience, the gut doesn’t always work right. For families in which one parent has celiac disease, feeding decisions for babies are fraught with indecision and second-guessing. The teething biscuit contained a reasonable amount of gluten, which is like Kryptonite for people with a celiac diagnosis. And what good parent knowingly feeds their kid something that might damage them? We did.

nutrients. Celiac disease, known also as glutensensitive enteropathy, is the diagnosis received by people who have an autoimmune reaction to eating gluten. Gastroenterologists use two primary tests to determine gluten intolerance or celiac disease: a blood test and/ or an endoscopy biopsy. My husband experienced both in 2006, and both tests confirmed that he has celiac disease. Our oldest two boys, our only children at the time, were tested via a simple blood test, called tTG, that detects gluten antibodies - and both had elevated results. We decided to remove gluten from their diets. Our oldest, in the 5th percentile or lower for weight, gained 10.5 pounds and 5 inches of height in his first five months off gluten. When we decided to grow our family, we faced new territory. Do you feed a baby gluten in a family where one parent has celiac disease?

What is Gluten? What is Celiac Disease?

Research on Feeding Infants in Families with a History of Celiac Disease

Gluten is a protein found in barley, wheat, rye, triticale and some other related grains. When a person with celiac disease or gluten intolerance eats gluten, the body triggers an autoimmune reaction. The gluten damages the villi in the small intestine, leaving the digestive tract unable to absorb needed

According to Dr. Esther Jacobowitz Israel, Associate Chief of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition at Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, “It is not clearcut what exactly is the optimal age to introduce

that the childhood and adult celiac disease is the same disease, and you can develop it at any age. Most celiac disease is silent, so you don’t know you have it.”

Celiac Symptoms in Babies Dr. Israel notes that “Gluten intolerance or celiac disease, presents only after the child has had gluten introduced into the diet, so it only starts AFTER exclusive bottle or breastfeeding has given way to solid food intake. That being said, many infants destined to have celiac disease do not develop it

in infancy, but rather as they get older. These symptoms include, classically, diarrhea, bloating and poor weight gain (failure to thrive). Less commonly we see vomiting, constipation and short stature as the symptoms and signs of celiac disease. Most children do not, in fact, present during infancy.” Parents with young children exhibiting these symptoms should start with a visit to their child’s pediatrician. “There are so many talks on celiac disease these days...it’s become almost the most common genetic defect there is [at] 1 in 133 [people in the U.S. with the disease]. Most of the pediatricians go to talks and this is one disease that they

Cl Reg Ja as iste nu se r N ar s S ow! y 1 ta 9 th rt !

gluten. However, some recent work may be very telling in this regard. Recent studies in Europe have suggested that there may indeed be a critical period for gluten introduction which starts after 3 months of age and goes to 7 months. Introduction of gluten before or after that “window of opportunity” increased the risk of developing celiac disease. There is work ongoing in the United States to replicate these findings.” In 2005 Norris et.al published a study of 1,560 children at risk for celiac disease or type 1 diabetes and found that babies who first ate gluten between 4 and 6 months of age had the lowest rates of celiac disease development. Children fed gluten before the age of 4 months had a five-fold increase in celiac disease rates, while those introduced to gluten at age 7 months or later had a slightly increased rate of celiac disease development compared to the 4-6 month group. In 2008 the European Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition and North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition issued a medical position paper that declared the critical period for introducing gluten into the diet of any baby - with or without a family history of celiac disease - to be 4 to 6 months, stating that such an approach “may reduce the risk of celiac diease, type 1 diabetes mellitus and wheat allergy.”

Melanie Barton Zoltan covers continuing education issues for About.com and is a member of the National Book Critics Circle; she is the Feature Writer for History and Philosophy Books for Suite101.com. She lives in Framingham with her husband and three sons.

Applied Behavior Analysis

ABA 3URJUDP Board Certified Assistant Behavior Analyst (BCaBA)

Impact of Breastfeeding on Celiac Development Even introducing gluten during a sensitive period of 4 to 6 months isn’t enough - breastfeeding can play an important role for babies with a parent with celiac disease. As Dr. Israel explains, “It has not been clearcut that breastfeeding is protective for developing celiac disease. However, recent preliminary studies have shown that the introduction of gluten while still breastfeeding may be somewhat protective in decreasing the likelihood of developing celiac disease.” Research throughout the 1980s and 1990s indicated that breastfeeding even for a few months - may reduce a child’s chances of developing celiac disease in families with a history of the condition. A 2010 report from the Italian National Institute of Health suggests that breastfeeding during the time gluten is introduced as well as beyond the introduction of gluten may be the best approach for attempting to reduce the developement of celiac disease, but this possibility requires further investigation. So what should parents with a family history of celiac diease do when it comes to feeding babies? According to Dr. Aubrey Katz, Clinical Chief of Pediatric Gastroenterology and Nutrition at Massachusetts General Hospital for Children, “There is some data to suggest that if you do breastfeed and introduce gluten, that maybe the response to gluten is ameliorated, but the problem with celiac disease is this:

usually know about,” Dr. Katz explains. “There may be some of them who don’t realize, though, that a negative tTG and a symptomatic patient under the age of 2 or 3 could still not rule out celiac disease.” At that point, a referral to a pediatric gastroenterologist is in order if symptoms persist.

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melissa.brewercorash@becker.edu BAYSTATEPARENT 23

MOMS ROCK!

Becky Shelton OF GROTON Age: 26 Mom of: Sofia, age 15 months Occupation: Ballet teacher and Jewelry Designer BY

bonnie toomey, allison cottrill photographer

" There is an element of beauty in every dancer

and in each moment being a mom, even though there may not always be perfection.” 24 DECEMBER2010

B

ecky Shelton exudes elegance. There’s a quiet determination behind her soft eyes framed by her chic hair. If you were to meet her for the first time, you might guess from her petite frame and perfect posture that she is a ballerina, and you’d be right. Ballet has been central to Becky’s life since she was just 3 years old. “Everybody has that one thing that makes them feel calm: tea, a bubble bath, drawing. Barre work was my meditation. I know if I reach for it, I can attain any goal in life because of the discipline dance has given me.” And being a good mom is one of those incredibly important goals. Ironically, before her daughter Sofia was born, Becky thought she would not want to see her daughter pursuing ballet as seriously as she had. Why? From middle school on, Becky took classes every day. Dance looks so effortless on stage, but the technique requires sacrifice rivaling that of an Olympic athlete. Becky remembers her early training, “I just wanted to relax and not have to do my homework in the car,” she says. However, each time she entered the mirrored studio, her worries would vanish. The feel of the ballet barre against her hand and her worn ballet slippers working along the floor was like therapy to her. She would lose herself in the music and just let everything else go. Now Becky sees that her daughter, Sofia, at only 15 months, loves to dance. It’s no surprise as her daughter comes from a long line of dancers: Sofia’s dad is a break dancer, her grandmother, a ballet teacher and Becky’s sister, a ballerina. But the reality is that ballet is very selective; you have to have the right shaped feet, the right size head and the right body type. It can be hard on a person’s psyche. “Dance is very competitive, and a child should not have to try in vain to change who they are just to fit in,” Becky says. She wants young dancers to know, however, there is a place for everyone who wants to perform; they just have to look for it. There are opportunities from cruise ships to Broadway to Disney, local studios and teaching. Becky’s hard work landed her a spot in the Orlando Ballet, even performing as Clara in The Nutcracker. The rigorous daily training of a dancer’s life, from morning until night, left Becky diagnosed with stress fractures and in need of two hip surgeries. Her body just couldn’t keep up, and she was just 21 years old. An optimistic Becky chose to view her physical challenges as a sign for a new beginning. Previously drawn to the glitz, the costumes and the lights of the stage, Becky was able to find artistic expression in creating jewelry. Her designs are not symmetrically perfect and a bit edgy but nonetheless, beautiful. The brown-eyed ballerina mom seems to employ this philosophy in all facets of her life. She believes there is an element of beauty in every dancer and in each moment being a mom, even though there may not always be perfection. “I was never around young children growing up, but I know that if Sofia is squishing carrots into the carpet it can be cleaned up later. I tell myself that it’s okay if the house isn’t perfect 24/7,” she says. Before Sofia, Becky lived on the surface, caring about the small stuff. Now she is happy enjoying the special time with her daughter. And she demurely adds, when she has five minutes to herself, she really does appreciate it. Today Becky is poised between motherhood, a career in teaching and dreams of designing jewelry. “You have to know for yourself that you can do it,” she says. She tenderly gives Sofia a little squeeze and a soft kiss. And in that mantra, Becky finds peace, beauty and balance.

“ Sofia has put my

Bonnie J. Toomey is a Lunenburg freelance writer who earned her teaching certificate from the Royal Academy of Dancing in 1994. She founded and directed Middlesex Ballet Academy in Pepperell, Massachusetts where Becky Shelton studied and performed for several years. To learn more about Bonnie’s view parenting, visit her blog at parentforward.blogspot.com.

life into perspective and has helped me to become more like the person I’ve always known I can be.”

Take 15 with Becky 1. Three words to describe your family: Artistic, multicultural and short. 2. Best part of my day: On days that I am not working, I always try to take Sofia for a walk, weather permitting of course. She does not like to be in her stroller, (I think she feels lonely in that seat by herself) so I always carry her. It allows us to interact much more. I adore watching her wave to everyone she sees, and point to everything along the way and ask me ‘what’s that!?’ It’s the most relaxing part of my day. 3. We love going to: The Groton Public Library: We go to story time and then to the playground next door. The Butterfly Place in Westford: Sofia has a blast looking at all the amazing butterflies and at the button quail that live in the greenhouse. Parlee Farm in Tyngsboro: They have all kinds of amazing fruits and vegetables to pick all year long. 4. What makes me a better mom: Remembering to stay humble. Knowing that there are things that I struggle with and things that I could be better at keeps me working hard each day to be the mom I want to be. Just being around Sofia has put my life into perspective and has helped me to become more like the person I’ve always known I can be. 5. Current family obsession: The Putumayo Kids CDs. At any time you can catch our family dancing to the African CD.

read Santa Claus And His Elves by Mauri Kunnas, right before we would head to bed. I plan on keeping up that tradition with Sofia. It is the most magical little book about the elves getting ready for Christmas. The illustrations are so fun and detailed that I could look at them for hours. It’s not Christmas Eve without that book! 10. I am the type of mom that: Tries very hard to stay organized and on top of things but ends up putting music on and dancing around the house with Sofia instead.

6. An inspiring parent I know: My parents of course. They sacrificed everything for their daughters. They wonder how I knew to be a good mother without ever having babies or kids in the family, what they don’t realize is that I learned it all from them.

11. Holiday food I can’t get enough of: Every Christmas dinner we start off with a fruit cup topped off with sherbet. I usually eat so much of it that I hardly have room for the rest of the meal. Also my mother’s strawberry Jell-O mold mixed with fruit chunks and layered with sour cream.

7. What I hope my child will remember about me when she gets older: I hope Sofia remembers that I was always there for her and that she could confide in me about anything.

12. This New Year’s Eve I will most likely: Spend it with family. Nothing too crazy, just a small family get together and then SLEEP!

8. Things I have to do every holiday season: See The Nutcracker or perform in it and drink a lot of spiced cider and hot chocolate. I love the way they make the whole house smell festive. I also shop, shop, shop ‘till I drop and, bake gingerbread men. 9. A holiday tradition I look forward to sharing with my child: Every year on Christmas Eve my mother would

13. Hopes for 2011: I hope Sofia continues to be the happy, inquisitive, silly, grumpy, wiggly and adorable little girl that she is. And that all my friends and family have a fantastic year as well. (It would be great if this economy would turn around a bit…) 14. The negative and positive way ballet has influenced my life: The discipline was one of the main things I enjoyed about dancing. You have

to be able to push yourself beyond your regular limits on a daily basis to continue to improve. It taught me to be responsible for myself. I realized at around age 7, that no one was going to do the work for me. I was only going to be as good as I made myself. I couldn’t just rely on my talent. I had many people tell me I was never going to be a ballerina but I continued to work as hard as ever. Without that I don’t know if I would have ever learned how much hard work it takes to accomplish what you want. I expect everyone to work hard all the time, and I find that I can be tough on people if they are slacking off. I didn’t have a regular childhood but I think the positives outweigh the negatives. 15. Other advice for dancers and parents: Parents, children’s bodies are sensitive, and if overworked they will become injured. Allow for downtime and try to let them have at least one day a week just to be a kid. Dancers, always keep your head up and never give up. People may tell you you’re not good enough, but as long as you keep trying you’ll get there. It takes a lot of hard work and dedication to be a dancer.

Our monthly “Moms Rock” column sees the good in what moms do. Do you know a mom who just rocks? E-mail editor@baystateparent.com. BAYSTATEPARENT 25

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26 DECEMBER2010

HAPPYHOLIDAYS

CAPTURED

“tidings of comfort & joy”

Santa Came: Will Shaw of Millbury, age 2 1/2, spots his most wished-for present under the tree, Thomas the Train!

A Promise: During a family outing to cut the Christmas tree, Sophie Geremia (age 6 at the time) gives a little tree a pep talk, promising to return in a few years when the tree is big enough to leave.

Christmas in the City: Sophie and Johanna Germia of Shrewsbury (at ages 9 and 11) try to catch the first snowflakes of the season at Rockefeller Plaza during a festive weekend in New York City.

Baby's First Christmas: Cameron White (at age 3 1/2) shows little brother, Curtis White (8 months old here), the holiday ropes. After putting up the Christmas tree in their Rutland home, she snuggles baby brother in their new Christmas jammies.

Have you captured a special photo of your child?

Christmas Cat: Flynn and Basil Mitchell of West Boylston with their Christmas surprise, Chloe.

Christmas Crawl: Kaltrina Jashari of Framingham starts to crawl on her second Christmas (at age 18 months old). She crawled straight to the tree and all of her presents. Her favorite present was a polar bear puppet that she talked and sang to all Christmas Day.

bsp is looking for photos of kids who “dressed themselves” and winter wonderland shots. More themes to come! Email editor@baystateparent.com. BAYSTATEPARENT 27

Holidays SHOW&TELLSHOW&T

HAPPY

ADVERTISING PROMOTION

Adora Calcium Supplement

Batter Up Bakery owner Deb Kaneb

Homemade Cookies, Baked Fresh Daily Our thick, chewy and delicious oversized cookies are made by hand in small batches in a home kitchen using the freshest all natural ingredients, including Guittard chocolate chips, pure bourbon vanilla extract, King Arthur unbleached flour, cage free eggs, Mediterranean sea salt, and grade AA butter. Our special holiday Chocolate Peppermint Kringle is a moist and chewy chocolate peppermint cookie, loaded with chocolate chips and topped by a crushed peppermint candy. It’s the cookie that many of our customers call “the best cookie I’ve ever had!”

www.batterupbakery.com deb@batterupbakery.com

Cutie Patutie’s Consignment Finally, a spill proof room diffuser! Spill proof lid delivers pleasing room fragrance for 2 months! Safe for all rooms and around kids and pets.

1021 Central Street, Leominster, MA 01453 978-534-6604 www.everythingcutie.com

Taking daily supplements can be a chore, but with the launch of the new Adora™ Calcium & Vitamin D Supplement in rich, premium, all-natural chocolate, women now have a tasty, indulgent treat to look forward to – and at only 30 calories per serving. The proprietary Adora formula, developed by Thompson Brands, a renowned chocolatier with a legacy dating back to 1879, meets women’s daily health needs while satiating chocolate cravings. Each indulgent chocolate Adora disk provides up to 50 percent of the daily value of calcium plus vitamin D3 and magnesium for optimal absorption. Adora Calcium & Vitamin D Supplement is available in creamy milk chocolate and rich dark chocolate and can be found nationally at CVS/pharmacy stores, Whole Foods and other fine retailers for the suggested retail price of $7.99 - $9.99.

www.adoracalcium.com

Gwendolyn, the Graceful Pig A fun read that kids and their parents love.

Cedar Crest Books 17 Lookout Avenue Natick, MA 508-653-8839 www.cedarcrestbooks.com

Metrowest Yoga Yoga Studio

Soft & Safe Building Blocks

Glow Baby

The Organized Family Calendar Allows families to clearly track up to 6 individual schedules per week and have a monthly calendar view at the same time.

230 Northcliffe Blvd. Toronto, ON M6E 3K7 416-519-3844 www.glowbaby.com

Sweet Bliss Confections GingerhausTM Soft, safe, squeezable…and lots of fun to stack! Our vibrant, wipe-clean vinyl blocks come in tons of irresistible shapes, patterns and colors. We’ve even included 4 fun balls that jingle, shake, rattle and crinkle…and nest right inside the blocks! Set of 26 pieces; cube is 4 1/2". $49.95

230 Needham Street, Newton, MA 02464 352E Broadway, Saugus, MA 01906 800-778-4456 www.LakeshoreLearning.com WINNER OF THE 2010 PREFERRED CHOICE AWARD

Gingerbread Manor Deluxe Baking Kit 10% of sales goes to Anthonny Robbins International Basket Brigade Foundation. Free Shipping • 508-926-9386

Join the Christmas tradition of making a gingerbread house. This kit is just about fool proof and includes everything,except the oil and the egg. You literally roll the dough, lay it into the panels (leaving the tabs dough free) and bake on them. You don't use royal icing- you just pop the panel into the armature. You can light them from within. Making a gingerbread house is lots of fun and an activity the whole family can enjoy.

www.sweetblissconfections.com

Hot Yoga, Kids Classes, Gentle/Restorative, Hatha Yoga, Workshops, Teacher Training

32 Millbrook Street, Worcester and 69 Milk Street, Westboro 508-366-5025 www.metrowestyoga.net

SHOW&TELLSHOW&TELLSHO

28 DECEMBER2010

&TELLSHOW&TELLSHOW&TELL Teach My™ Early Learning Kits award winning learning toys

Scribble It

Everything you need comes in one portable, storable case!

Take a look at our step stools in white and natural wood styles. Choose from a variety of designs to help personalize your step stool to fit your room or gift idea. Cost: $60 (each) Cost includes painting, personalization, and gift wrapping.

50 Winchester Street Newton, MA 02461 617-964-9897 www.scribbleitnewton.com Monday - Friday 9:30-6 Saturday 10-5

Love Your Space Professional Organizing Serving Massachusetts Ability to help each person truly LOVE their space!

508-648-6981 www.lysorganizing.com

Tiny Tag Designs

• Teach My Baby: Contains four sections of learning activities, First Words, First Numbers, Self and Sound & Touch, that encourage natural repetition. • Teach My Toddler: Comprised of 17 coordinated teaching tools to help toddlers master the basics: the alphabet, numbers, shapes and colors. • Teach My Preschooler: Truly prepares your child for kindergarten in four ways: Ready To Read, Ready To Print, Ready For 1-100 and Ready For Math.

Percentage of Sales goes to St. Jude’s.

476 Asterbell Drive, San Ramon, CA 94583

www.teachmy.com

401-835-4543

Available at stores such as Target, Toys R Us, Bed, Bath & Beyond, Barnes & Noble and more!

www.TinyTagDesigns.com

The Rugged Bear Girls & Boys Rugged Bear Winter Jackets

WHY SHOULD PRESCHOOLERS HAVE ALL THE FUN SHOWING THEIR FAVORITE THINGS DURING

SHOW&TELL? The WOO Card Exclusive discounts to cultural destinations, restaurants, hotels and retailers throughout Worcester County. Where will you WOO?

44 Front Street, Suite 530, Worcester MA 01608 508-799-1400 ext. 241 www.woocard.org

They are sure to get noticed on the slopes in these exuberant and bold Thermofil insulated board jackets. Soft, brushed tricot lining in collar and cuffs so no irritating rubbing. Inside “powder skirt” with non-slip elastic keeps snow and slush out, warmth in. Thermofil insulation is lightweight and warm without added bulk or weight. Thermofil adjusts with body movement and doesn’t compact or shift. Body heat is trapped inside while perspiration is allowed to move through to the outside. Kids stay warm, comfortable, and dry. Watch out winter.

Call For a Location Near You 888-936-BEAR www.RuggedBear.com

Mamas n Divas Nail Lounge Full service nail care Clean modern salon with unique products and services for divas of all ages. We specialize in parties, especially children’s birthday parties.

122 Turnpike Road, Westborough, MA 01581 508-389-9995 www.mamasndivas.com

Get in on the fun and feature your product in baystateparent’s hottest new advertising opportunity, our Show & Tell pages.

To be included, contact Stephanie Pearl at 774-364-0296 or stephaniep@baystateparent.com.

H olidays OW&TELLSHOW& &TELL HAPPY

ADVERTISING PROMOTION

BAYSTATEPARENT 29

South Shore Plaza 250 Granite St. Suite 2370 Braintree, MA

NOW OPEN at South Shore Plaza Visit our store for children’s clothing, sizes 0-12, with classic style and value.

OUR GIFT TO YOU VISIT US DURING THE MONTH OF DECEMBER AND RECEIVE

YOUR PURCHASE OF $40 OR MORE IN STORE ONLY • VALID THROUGH 12/31/2010

Present at time of purchase only at OshKosh B’gosh stores in the U.S. and Puerto Rico. One coupon per customer per day. Coupon cannot be used in combination with any entire store discount offers. Cannot be combined, copied, transferred or sold. Not valid on gift cards, previous purchases, online or redeemable for cash. Consumer pays sales tax. Coupon discount will be applied as a percentage off each item in your transaction. You will receive the price paid (after discount) on all returned or exchanged merchandise. The value of your coupon discount will not be returned if you make a return or exchange. Employees not eligible. OshKosh B’gosh, OshKosh and The Genuine Deal are registered trademarks of OshKosh B’Gosh, Inc. Valid through December 31, 2010. Code 009430.

OshKoshBgosh.com

30 DECEMBER2010

009430

HAPPYHOLIDAYS

THE GENUINE ARTICLE IS HERE

Gorgeous gifts!

Discover our award-winning children’s books and gifts this holiday season at the Barefoot Books Flagship Store and Community Center. Join us for story hour, art activities, family concerts, yoga classes and more! MON TO SAT, 9 :30AM TO 5:30PM | SUN, 12PM TO 5PM 89 THOREAU STREET | CONCORD, MA | 978.369.1770

www.barefootbooks.com

HAPPYHOLIDAYS

FREE

s Crafts for Kid s y a Saturd 11–3!

BAYSTATEPARENT 31

HAPPYHOLIDAYS

MEET THE TOYMAKERS BY

carrie wattu, steven king photographer

To kick off our holiday season, baystateparent invited some fun into our office in the form of several Massachusetts toymakers (most of them enterprising parents). We got to hang out with other creative spirits and play with their cool toys (and some of us did some holiday shopping too). Check out who we met and what they brought and get some ideas to round out your own holiday shopping.

Think you’ve seen this grinning musical cat before? Meowsic has been featured on Ellen and Regis and Kelly.

Gisela Voss and Lisa Jobe Carmack of Greater Boston Creators of B.Toys, for ages 6 and under (Suwin Chan of Rhode Island, not pictured, is also part of the team) justb-byou.com Want to give a child a toy with personality that is good for the world? Or buy some toys that actually fit in the décor of your home? B.Toys were meant to be displayed. Just think: you don’t even have to put them away! Chief toy designer, Gisela Voss and her lifelong artist friends, Lisa Jobe Carmack and Suwin Chan, have made toys in colors and patterns that you want to be around. In fast, Gisela keeps the green bowl full of toys pictured on her lap on her dining room table. Not even a year old, (B.Toys launched in February 2010), and their toys are stand outs at Target and other specialty retailers. Way to go Greater Boston moms and company! If you have little ones to buy gifts for, visit their Web site (it will make you

Katherine H.P. Huck of Princeton Creator of the Original Fortamajig and The Fortamajig Connectables for ages 3+ thehappykidcompany.com As the mom of three children, ages 11, 8, 5, Katherine spent many years watching her kids raid the linen closet and rearrange the furniture to make forts. “The creative aspect of building these forts was always fun - but not always easy and practical,” says Katherine. So in August 2006, she got in on the fun, making a prototype for a fort construction toy made from an old tablecloth, some grommets and elastic. The result? A versatile tent-like toy to allow kids the ability to easily build forts 32 DECEMBER2010

smile): justb-byou.com. Cool idea: Need a quick gift? Only a busy mom could think of this: Just drop into Target and grab a B.Toy as some of them come with packaging that folds into gift wrap! And for your convenience every toy comes with a pretty gift tag. It couldn’t be easier (and earth friendly).

Life as a toy designer: “Be a kid at heart,” says Gisela. She also says it’s about working 90- hour weeks starting at 4 a.m. and weeding through about 4,000 emails and lots of Fed Ex packages and “ugly bubble packaging from China.” But her toy company allows her to stay at home with her children, ages 18, 13 and 5 and work with women she admires and loves.

What no designer has done before: Put textile patterns on all of their toys; even the backs of toys have cool etched patterns. “It’s about feeding your kids aesthetically,”says B. Toys designer, Lisa Jobe Carmack, also mom to a 7-year-old.

Toy philosophy: “Toys don’t have to be ugly,” says Gisela. B.Toys makes fashionable toys that come in unexpected unisex color combinations such as chocolate brown and purple. Toys do not contain lead or

and spaces themselves, and for the parent, to quickly clean up and put away! What bsp loves about Fortamajig: So much! It’s creative, practical, durable, portable, storable and washable! No hard pieces to break or lose. It can also benefit the special needs child to create personal space when he or she needs some downtime.

phthalates as the company is diligent about adhering to eco-friendly standards. “It’s part earthy crunchy, part fashion,” says Gisela. What’s cool in the B.Toys line: Everything! But here’s four ideas for starters: Holiday Hellophone (the play cell phone that calls you back with three pre-recorded messages); Holiday Wheeee-ls! (Pull-back-and-release car pals); Meowsic (an adorable cat-shaped toy featuring 5 instruments) and Pop Arty (500 pieces of snap-together jewelry including 12 rings and 6 bracelets). All four toys are pictured here.

Nancy Palie, Graphic Designer and Mark McCall, Toy Designer Toy State, Norwood, for ages 18 months and up toystate.com

HAPPYHOLIDAYS

Take a walk down the “boy” aisles of any major retailer, such as Wal-mart and Target, and you’ll see all kinds of vehicles and trucks, including Road Rippers and CAT excavators. Most of these toys and their packaging were designed by Mark and Nancy (pictured here) in their Norwood office. Toy State has been manufacturing licensed and highly stylized lights and sound vehicles since 1987.

A special Taggies product (by Danielle): It’s so hard to choose. It’s like picking your favorite child! Our Toss the Taggies is a very special item to me as it was one of first that demonstrated the breadth of the brand. Both a fun, interactive toy with

A perk for parents: Toy State boosts products with “light, sounds, action, control and power,” so parents may especially like that most models come with a mute switch.

What they’re working on this Christmas: 2012 toys. The team develops toys to meet the needs of 4-year-olds when they are just 2.

Danielle Ayotte of Paxton Co-creator of Taggies Inc., Spencer, for infants, toddlers +. taggies.com Those soft blankets trimmed in touchable satiny tags that have become the staple of every nursery (you probably have one in your home) were invented in the heart of Central Massachusetts in 1999 by moms and neighbors, Danielle Ayotte (pictured here) and Julie Dix. What started as a practical idea inspired by their children’s fascination with rubbing the tags on toys and clothing has turned into a worldwide sensation.

Office environment: Very noisy with lots of cars darting from desk to desk.

the same patented tag features that makes Taggies a child’s must have, this item really hits a baby’s every need. When my children were young, I favored items such as this that were totally fulfilling in their simplicity. What’s cool in the Taggies line: The classic blanket with satin tags has evolved into bedding, apparel books, plush toys and so much more. baystateparent has followed the Taggies story since the beginning and loves to see how the company, with its Massachusetts roots, continues to grow!

Make a visit to the Concord Museum part of your holiday tradition!

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A F MI LY TRE E S 15th Annual

Celebration of Children’s Literature

December 3 ~ January 2 35 whimsical trees decorated with inspiration from classic & contemporary children’s books Lead Sponsor

Meet a picture book costumed character each weekend afternoon ~ Spot, Martha, Toot & Puddle, Llama Llama!

On Cambridge Turnpike, Concord, MA 978.369.9763 • www.concordmuseum.org BAYSTATEPARENT 33

HAPPYHOLIDAYS BOOKS FROM MANY LANDS Visit Barefoot Books’ vibrant new flagship store in Concord, MA (a magical place) for over 400 original titles of award-winning multicultural books (many are written by local authors including Susan Reed, Jane Yolen and Heidi E.Y.Stemple). Also shop Online: barefootbooks.com.

FINALLYFOREVER

CULTURE CLUB

Holiday Gifts for Multicultural Families With an eye on adoption, baystateparent showcases gifts that bring different parts of the world home to your child. CHILDREN OF THE WORLD Looking for a doll of a certain ethnicity? Maureen Tallon, a Grafton adoptive mom, has an Online store offering dolls from every region of the world and much more including traditional squeaky shoes from China, a Russian hen game and a Korean Yute game. childrenoftheworld.biz.

DOLLIE & ME A new line of affordable dolls with stylish matching girl and doll dresses is now available at JCPenney, Kohl’s, Macy’s and Sears. Coordinating girl/doll outfits are available in sizes 2T-14X. dollieandme.com.

BUILDING BLOCKS OF CULTURE Boston mom, Donna Bottari, has created an Online boutique, Il Cocco di Mamma, filled with unique gifts for children including alphabet blocks from many nations and Flashwords for the bilingual child (pictured here: Russian blocks and Italian/English FlashWords). ilcoccodimamma.com. 34 DECEMBER2010

DECEMBER’SCHILD

Brianna just turned 11 and is an inquisitive girl with a perky personality. She is a good problem solver and has a sense of humor. Of Caucasian and Hispanic descent, she is currently in a foster home where she enjoys Spanish foods, as well as macaroni & cheese. Brianna has been in care most of her life and is legally free for adoption. She has had a number of placements with relatives that did not work out. She also was heartbroken over a previously failed adoptive placement. Brianna wants to be adopted, but is understandably scared about trying it again. In her short life she has learned not to trust adults. She can be oppositional and defiant; however, she

attends therapy where she has made gains. Brianna has been fortunate enough to remain with the same foster family for several years. Her foster mom is clear about what’s acceptable and not acceptable and is very calm in handling discipline. Brianna participates in karate lessons several times a week. She also enjoys singing, dancing, playing board games, riding bikes and helping in the kitchen. As a pre-teen she is interested in fashion and updating her look. Brianna is in the fifth grade where she is performing at grade level. A two-parent family would be ideal; however, a single mother with an extremely strong support system would also be considered. Any other children in

HAPPYHOLIDAYS the home would have to be much older than Brianna. Beyond a structured, safe environment, her worker is looking for a family that can give Brianna some of the fun experiences in life that she has missed out on. She has the potential to bring so many blessings to the right family. Brianna has maintained contact with an aunt and it would be important to Brianna to maintain a connection with her aunt. For more information on Brianna or about the adoption process in general, please contact Barbara Ford, Adoption Supervisor at The Department of Children and Families at 508-929-2143.

Brianna, age 11

CIRCLEOFFRIENDS Highlights of December’s Adoption-Related Events

FREE Korean Adoption Circle Playgroup Thursdays, Dec. 2 & 16: For families who have adopted from Korea. Meets on the 1st and 3rd Thursdays of each month from 10 a.m. - Noon at the Korean Presbyterian Church, 2 Main St., Hopkinton. Contact Jill at jillfelicio@yahoo.com.

FREE Adoption Information Meetings Wed., Dec., 8: Learn about Wide Horizon’s programs and meet staff at the Wide Horizons For Children, MA Office, 38 Edge Hill Rd., Waltham, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. Advance registration is required at whfc.org/ onlinereg/AdoptionInfo.htm. Visit whfc.org for more information.

FREE A Support Group for Waiting Parents Sat., Dec., 11: Join with a group of couples and singles, who are also in the “waiting period.” Each session focuses on a specific issue related to this part of the adoption process. Time is set aside for open discussion. Held at the Adoption Community of New England, Inc. (ACONE), 45 Lyman St., #2, Westborough, 10 a.m. - Noon. 508-366-6812, AdoptionCommunityofNE.org. Editor’s Note: Vist AdoptionCommunityofNE.org for a complete listing of adoption workshops, support groups and information sessions.

FREE Worcester Adoption Informational Meetings Tues., Dec. 13: Learn how you can change the future of a child in need by becoming a foster or adoptive parent with the Massachusetts Department of Children and Families. Meets at DCF Worcester, 25 Winthrop St., Worcester from 6 to 7 p.m. Questions? Call Barbara Ford, 508-929-2143. No registration required. Please submit January’s adoption-related events by Friday, December 3 at baystateparent.com, Calendar, “Submit an Event.” BAYSTATEPARENT 35

HAPPYHOLIDAYS

56 Wishes Ways To donate and volunteer with your family this season Department of Children and Families Drop off a new, unwrapped gift, particularly gifts for adolescents, at one of the Department of Children and Families offices listed here. Or if you choose, send a check payable to “DCF Kids Fund.” The monies collected will be used for holiday parties for children in care as well as for enrichment programs for these kids. You also may contact your local DCF Office for their specific holiday needs. Drop-off Locations: • Worcester East & West Area Office: 121 Providence St., 2nd Floor, Worcester • North Central Office: 690 Mechanic St., Suite 1, Leominster • South Central Office: 185 Church St., Whitinsville

The Prudential Center The Prudential Center in Boston is holding a toy drive until December 20 to benefit Action for Boston Community Development (ABCD) Early Head Start Program. New and unwrapped toys, books and clothing may be dropped off at the Customer Service Desk during normal business hours. The Pru is also hosting a Giving Tree to benefit Room to Grow (roomtogrow.org). Choose an ornament from the tree at the Customer Service Desk and fulfill a wish and need for a special child or parent. Room to Grow will be working with the retailers at The Shops at Prudential Center to identify items available and easily purchased at the Center. For more information, visit the prudentialcenter.com.

Kids for Wish Kids Make-A-Wish Foundation of Massachusetts and Rhode Island are running an educational fundraising program for kids, Kids for Wish Kids. The concept is that kids manage a fundraising project from start to finish, and the money raised goes to fund children’s wishes. To get your family involved, visit massri.wish.org.

Abby’s House Abby’s House is committed to ending homelessness for women and children in the Worcester area by offering housing, services and programs. They can always use a hand with food donations, volunteers to work overnights or in the thrift shop and much more. For more information on how you can help women and children this holiday, visit abbyshouse.org.

The Home for Little Wanderers The Home provides services to some of our state’s most vulnerable children and families and offers three ways to help others this holiday: • Donate a gift. The Big Wishes Gift Drive kicks off December 1 and runs through December 22. Stop by the Home’s Toy Room, 161 South Huntington Ave., Jamaica Plain or the community drop-off location nearest you — including all Bernie & Phyl’s Furniture locations and several Coldwell Banker offices — to donate a new and unwrapped gift or gift card. For more information, visit thehome.org/bigwishes. • Purchase holiday cards. Send Charity Holiday Cards featuring artwork by children in some of The Home’s 21 programs. Cards can be personalized with your holiday message 36 DECEMBER2010

or signature. thehome.org/cards or thehome.org/giftshop • Bid on items in an Online Holiday Auction. Bid on exciting gifts and experiences ranging from celebrity items, sports memorabilia, to overnight escapes for your friends and family. The auction ends on December 13. thehome.org/ auction.

Why Me and Sherry’s House Why Me, Inc./Sherry’s House, a Worcester-based organization providing love and support for children with childhood cancer, is selling holiday cards containing drawings created by Why Me children. Cards are $13. The deadline to order is December 10. Why Me also offers their “Chain of Love” bracelet, designed by a Why Me mom in honor of all Why Me children, survivors, angels and fighters. Each color bead has a specific meaning for the children: yellow for childhood cancer awareness; green for comfort; pink for love; orange for strength, and purple for support. Bracelets are $30 and can be mailed or picked up at Sherry’s House. Why Me also has a wish list listed on their Web site year round. For more information, visit whyme.org. The following information is courtesy of the

United Way of Central Massachusetts. For a complete list of ways you can help, visit unitedwaycm.org.

Donations: African Community Education Call Julia Kilgore or Aysha Abraibesh at 508-799-3564. Donate canned or non-perishable food items, particularly holiday style food; warm winter clothes, jackets, sweaters, scarves, hats, gloves, socks and boots; gifts for children ages 10 - 18 to be given at a giving tree holiday party, December 18. Gift cards also welcome. AIDS Project Worcester, Inc. Call Patricia Price at 508-755-3773 or e-mail tprice@aidsprojectworcester.org. Donate unwrapped gifts for toy distribution prior to December 14. Donate personal care items such as soap, shampoo, washcloths, toothpaste, tooth brushes, feminine products or disposable diapers. Donate food for December holiday food baskets including turkeys, hams, fresh vegetables and nonperishable items. Assist with distribution of baskets. Call for dates. Auburn Youth and Family Services Call Sheryl Spafford at 508-832-5707 ext.10 or e-mail sheryls@ayfs.org. Donate new toys, games and books for children of all ages; grocery store gift cards for holiday food baskets; gifts for teens such as movie passes, music, gaming gift cards and personal care items; gift cards to clothing or shoe stores to be used to purchase gifts for children and teens. Adopt a family and provide gifts for Christmas. Call for details. Big Brothers Big Sisters Central MA/Metro West Call Melanie Perreault 508-752-7868 ext.16 or email melanie.perreault@bbbs.org.

Donate gift cards to local grocery stores, board games, basketballs, footballs, dodge-balls and craft supplies. Boys & Girls Club of Worcester Call Liz Hamilton at 508-754-2686 or email lizhamilton34@aol.com. Donate holiday gifts for children ages 8 to 18 including gift cards for teens such as movies, music or shopping; grocery store gift cards to purchase holiday meals for families in need; wrapping paper and supplies such as bows and cards. Adopt a family for the holidays and provide gifts. Call for details. Burncoat Family Center Call Kerry Lavallee at 508-853-6988 or email klavallee@communityhealthlink.org. Donate new toys, books, clothes, outerwear, boots or gift cards for boys ages 7 to 12 and girls ages 13 to 18; gift certificates for movies, bowling or other activities; non-religious holiday decorations or gift wrap; food for Christmas meals. CASA Project, Inc. Call Sue Ellen Scrogin at 508-757-9877. Donate books for children ages 5 to 16 for distribution in the juvenile court; coloring books, new crayons, markers or Playdough for use by volunteers with children involved in court cases. Central Massachusetts Housing Alliance Call Lynn Millette at 508-791-1512 or email lmillette@cmhaonline.org. Donate gift cards to purchase holiday food. Donate gift cards, for children 12 and older, to purchase shoes and sneakers. Children’s Friend, Inc. Call Debbie Huegel at 508-753-5425 or email dhuegel@childrensfriend.org. Donate $10 gift cards that will be distributed to needy families during the holiday season. Gift cards can be for discount stores and supermarkets. Community Healthlink – Faith House Call Sandra Baker at 508-860-1287 or email sbaker@communityhealthlink.org. Donate gifts for women ages 21 to 50 such as pajamas, hats, gloves, clothing or personal care items; gift cards to grocery and book stores are also welcome; or donate a gift for a specific woman. Call for wishes and sizes. Community Healthlink – Highland Grace House Call Melanie Amir at 508-860-1172 or 508-860-1005 or e-mail mamir@communityhealthlink.org. Donate gifts for teenage girls such as gift cards to pharmacies, bath and body toiletries, costume jewelry, hats, gloves or fleece throw blankets. Community Healthlink – Maranda’s House Call Jennifer Garcia at 508-860-1005 or e-mail Jgarcia@communityhealthlink.org. Donate twin size bedding or gift cards to discount stores, family style restaurants or grocery stores for women and children shelter residents.

HAPPYHOLIDAYS

Horizons for Homeless Children Call Kari Lefort at 508-755-2615 or e-mail central@horizonsforhomelesschildren.org. Donate new arts and crafts supplies or toys for infants, toddlers and preschoolers; games and puzzles for school-age children and multicultural books for children less than 6 years of age. ICC Community Kids Club Call Sarai Rivera at 508- 202-4532 or 508-579-3015 or e-mail sarairivera@email.com. Donate gifts for holiday party such as sports equipment, snacks or gift cards. Donate arts and crafts items. Donate hats, gloves, coats or hoodies for refugee families.

Community Healthlink – WRAP Call Irene Moreno at 508-421-4370 or 508-860-1212 or e-mail cfoulkyodpickett@communityhealthlink.org. Donate sweatshirts for men and women, sizes large and up; gloves, scarves, hats and socks; pillows, blankets, sheets and clocks. Dare Family Services Call Armida Martinez at 508-755-7100 or e-mail amartinez@darefamily.org. Donate toys or other items for children ages 10 to 18. Items for teens especially needed. Edward M. Kennedy Community Health Center Call Liz Davis at 508-854-2122 ext. 7321or e-mail Liz.davis@kennedychc.org. Donate books for older children ages 6 -18. Call for delivery or pick up instructions. Elm Park Center Call Alba Santana 774-535-6650 or email albasantana@charterinternet.com. Donate hats, scarves or mittens for 48 infants and children under the age of 7 years; toys and books for infants and children under the age of 7 years; gift cards to grocery stores for families. Call for details. Family Health Center of Worcester Call Georgianna Sgariglia at 508-860-7700 or e-mail georgianna.sgargliaFHCW@umassmed.edu. Donate new items for newborns and mothers in need; baby blankets, toiletries, newborn undergarments and socks, bibs, baby sling carriers or small photo frames. Donate new items for immigrants/refugees and or homeless families such as gloves, mittens, hats, scarves, first aid kits, sheets, blankets, or household kitchen items.

Frances Perkins and Foundations Transitional Programs Call Sandra Matos-Laureano at 508-757-7506. Donate gifts for children ages newborn to 18; household or personal items for families in transition; gift cards and gift certificates are also welcome for families in need. Friendly House Shelter Call Maria DeJesus at 508-792-1799. Donate gifts for homeless families. Girls Incorporated of Worcester Call Anne McCarthy at 508-755-6455 ext. 41 or e-mail amccarthy@worcester.girls-inc.org. Donate small holiday gifts for girls 5 to 12 years of age. Green Island Neighborhood Center Call Rochelle Appiah 508-753-4661 or e-mail: rochelleap@yahoo.com. Donate pajamas, socks, coats, hats and gloves for all sizes. Donate food, candy, gifts for Christmas, gift cards or movie tickets. Guild of St. Agnes Call Sharon Woodbury at 508- 755-2238 or e-mail: swood016@aol.com. Gifts for children newborn to age 12; disposable diapers and related items or clothing such as pants sizes 3T to 5T and pajamas sizes 3 to 12 months; hats, mittens and coats in children’s sizes; wrapping paper and ride-on toys with wheels such as tricycles. Horace Mann Educational Associates (H.M.E.A) Call Emily Cabrera at 508- 298-1129 or e-mail ecabrera@hmea.org. Donate clothing such as mittens, gloves, hats or scarves; gift cards for pharmacy or grocery stores, pillows, linens or blankets.

Lutheran Community Services Call Noreen Horgan at 508-849-2152 or e-mail nhorgan@lcssne.org. Donate gifts, holiday decorations, household items or clothing to be distributed to clients. MOC Child Care and Head Start Hosmer Site Contact Cris Siler 978-345-8549 ext. 308 or e-mail csiler@mocinc.org. Donate coats, grocery gift certificates, toys, games, books or food baskets for children and families in need. Play games or read to preschoolers. Nativity School of Worcester Contact Melissa Zangari at 508-799-0100 or e-mail mzangari@nativityworcester.org. Donate sports equipment such as baseballs, basketballs or related items; art supplies or music equipment such as scores or songbooks. Oak Hill CDC Contact Patricia Mallios at 508-754-2858 or e-mail pmallios@oakhillcdc.org. Donate gift cards to supermarkets, bus passes for teens and small snacks or gifts for neighborhood residents and youth.

Volunteer opportunities all season long Burncoat Family Center Call Kerry Lavallee at 508-853-6988 or e-mail klavallee@communityhealthlink.org. Organize and staff a holiday party in December for children ages 4 to 18. Provide refreshments and activities such as singing, games, crafts, or decorating. Lead children in a holiday craft or cooking activity. Volunteers must be 18 years of age or older. Dare Family Services Call Armida Martinez at (508-755-7100 or email amartinez@darefamily.org. Contact local companies to secure gifts for foster children during the holiday season. Call for more information.

Boys & Girls Club of Worcester Call Liz Hamilton at 508-754-2686 or e-mail lizhamilton34@aol.com. Wrap presents for our holiday party. Call for dates. Friendly House Shelter Call Maria DeJesus at 508-792-1799. Lead arts and crafts activities for residents during the holiday season. ICC Community Kids Club Call Sarai Rivera at 508-202-4532 or 508-579-3015 or e-mail sarairivera@email.com. Groups/families needed to assist children with a special arts and craft activity or gift making project. Volunteers specify craft and bring materials. Lutheran Community Services Call Noreen Horgan at 508- 849-2152 or e-mail nhorgan@lcssne.org. Provide instruction and materials for a small craft project. Rainbow Child Development Center Call Mike Wyne at 508-791-6849 or e-mail mwyne@rainbowcdc.com. Assist children with holiday activities such as arts and crafts, cooking or singing. The Bridge of Central Massachusetts Call Wanja Kiraguri at 508-755-0333 or e-mail wanjak@thebridgecm.org. Volunteers needed to help solicit and wrap holiday gifts for the over 700 children and adults served by A “Wish List” can be provided. Webster Square Day Care Center Call Di-Ann Ethier at 508-756-3567 or e-mail dewsdcc@aol.com. Lead a holiday cookie making party. Volunteers may choose daytime hours to work with children or evening hours to work with families. Host a holiday party for children in need. A group of volunteers is needed to provide refreshments and small gifts for 61 children. This is a daytime activity with date flexible. YMCA School’s Out Program Call Sarah Levy at 508-755-6101 ext. 229. Host a winter or holiday craft project for school age children. YWCA Young Parents Program Call Helen Rinaldi at 508-767-2505 ext. 3028 or e-mail hrinaldi@ywcaworcester.org. Small groups of 1 or 2 needed to demonstrate how to make holiday snacks and crafts for student groups of 12 to 15 teens.Pick a date to volunteer.

BAYSTATEPARENT 37

Burncoat Family Center Call Kerry Lavallee at 508-853-6988 or e-mail klavallee@communityhealthlink.org. Wrap holiday gifts between December 15 and 23. Assist with New Year’s Eve activities or donate activity supplies for clients for December 31. Central Massachusetts Housing Alliance (The Village Shelter) Call Lynn Millette at 508-791-1512 or e-mail lmillette@cmhaonline.org. Volunteers needed to pick up and assist with sorting gifts for kids; December 17 and December 20, 7:30 a.m. – 12 p.m. Set up for holiday parties and assist with activities during party; December 22, 1:30 p.m. – 5 p.m. Assist with holiday donation distribution; December 23, 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Emmanuel Village Call Lynn Boulay at 508-753-3057 or e-mail lboulay@lssne.org.

Girls Incorporated of Worcester Call Anne McCarthy at 508-755-6455 ext. 41 or e-mail amccarthy@worcester.girls-inc.org. Volunteers needed for holiday party December 17 to help with set up, registering guests, serving dessert and helping with activities as well as clean up. Oak Hill CDC Contact Patricia Mallios at 508-754-2858 or e-mail pmallios@oakhillcdc.org. Help plan seasonal events such as Community Potluck on December 13 from 5:30 – 7 p.m. Assist with teen holiday party on December 20 from 3 – 5 pm.. Help is needed with outreach, decorating or cooking. Volunteers with physical strength needed to assist with “Toys for Tots” pick up and distribution December 13 – 23. Pernet Family Health Services Call Paulette Lacoste at 508-755-1228 ext. 226 or e-mail placoste@pernetfamilyhealth.org. Help sort Christmas gifts and deliver packages to families December 13-17. People In Peril (PIP) Shelter Call David McClosky at 508-757-0103 ext. 22 or e-mail davidm@smoc.org. Help prepare and serve holiday meals December 25, 7 a.m., 11 a.m. or 5 p.m.; arrive one hour in advance.

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Limited Openings CHILD CARE FOR INFANTS THROUGH PRESCHOOL UÊ iÀÌ wi`]ÊÌÀ> i`ÊÃÌ>vvÊ«À Û `iʵÕ> ÌÞ]ÊÊ Û }ÊÊ ÊÊÊV>ÀiÊv ÀÊV `Ài Ê Ê>ÊLÀ } Ì]ÊÃ>vi]ÊV v ÀÌ>L iÊÊÊÊ ÊÊÊv>V ÌÞÊ V>Ìi`Ê ÊÌ iÊ6 >ÀiÊ iÌÜ À ÊLÕ ` } UÊ VÌ Ûiʺ > `à »Ê i>À } UÊ iÛi « i Ì> Ê« à « Þ UÊ" «i ÊÞi>À À Õ `]Ê `>Þ À `>ÞÊ ÊÊÊvÀ ÊÇ\ÎäÊ>° °ÊÌ ÊÈÊ«° ° Flexible Scheduling to Accommodate your needs. To arrange a tour, call Pat Hare at 508-751-6985 120 Thomas St., Worcester i>ÀÊ` Ü Ì Ü ]Ê Ó äÊ> `Ê-Ì°6 Vi ÌÊ Ã« Ì> * À Û ` }Ê ÝVi i ÌÊV>ÀiÊv ÀÊ ÊV `Ài Êà ViÊ£ n Licensed by the Department of Early Education and Care

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Auburn Youth and Family Services Call Sheryl Spafford at 508-832-5707 ext.10 or e-mail sheryls@ayfs.org. Help with food basket distribution afternoons and evenings. Christmas deliveries, December 20, December 21 and 22.

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AIDS Project Worcester, Inc. Call Patricia Price at 508-755-3773 or e-mail tprice@aidsprojectworcester.org. Help at holiday party to set up, clean up, serve food, entertain children or paint faces, December 11. Choose a shift between 2 and 5 p.m.

Friendly House Inc. Call Josefina Velez 508-755-4362 or e-mail friendlyhouse@friendlyhousema.org. Help distribute Christmas food and toys on December 21, 22, and 23. Assist with annual Christmas party on December 19. Help is needed to set up, distribute gifts and clean up. Call for times.

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Volunteering opportunities on certain dates.

Assist with holiday decorating on December 23. Decorations will be provided.

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HAPPYHOLIDAYS

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with your prospective boss and the quickchanges in and out of your interview clothes before heading back to work, as though you’re carrying on a tawdry affair behind the company’s back. Then, the announcement of your departure, the goodbye party (in my case complicated by the fact that I loved the people I worked with), and the Walk of Awkwardness out the company door holding the cardboard box of personal files, your kids’ drawings and a bunch of stolen pens. I know that in this economy I’m fortunate that I had the luxury to switch jobs. I think I’ll stay put for awhile. 3. Experiencing major events without my father for the first time. Dad died in April 2009, and the first year of holidays, birthdays and anniversaries without him was difficult. We still miss him dearly, yet the second round of milestones in his absence won’t be as wrenching. Our family has grieved, but we’ve also adjusted to the fact that not having dad lead the charge is our new normal.

UNDER MY ROOF Counting Down The

IMPERFECT

10 BY

jim keogh

I know December is the month when we reflect on the events of the year that’s coming to a close. But if you’ll indulge me, I’d like to add a wrinkle to the tradition. Here are 10 Things about 2010 that I will not miss in 2011... 1. My daughter’s boyfriend. Just after the holidays, Kelsey brought home her boyfriend from college to spend a few days with us. His name was Pete. To this day that is the only thing I know about him. Pete did not say much. Talking with him was like trying to carry on a conversation with the giant stone heads on Easter Island. Not only did Pete and Kelsey have nothing in common, he seemed not to have anything in common with the human race as a whole. It was a very odd, unsettling time for all of us. Fortunately, they broke up soon afterward and she has a new boyfriend. I like him. He speaks. 2. Switching jobs. After 23 years in journalism I made a mid-career change and took a position in higher education. I don’t regret doing it — but no matter how ready you are for the move, the stress involved with pulling this off is brutal. First are the whispered phone conversations

4. The hype surrounding Conan O’Brien’s return to late night television. Okay, he’s back. He holds a grudge against Leno. He earned over $30 million for being kicked off “The Tonight Show.� He has a beard now. I just want him to be as funny as promised. 5. Another election season. With some of the ugliest mid-terms in history finally over, we have a year’s reprieve before the 2012 national election, which promises to be apocalyptic. Honestly, we need the rest. 6. Katy Perry. This may be impossible to pull off, but once the dedicated team of brain surgeons has succeeded in removing the “California Gurls� and “Teenage Dream� from my memory bank, I pledge to make my life a Katy Perry-free Zone in 2011. 7. Watching the gulf oil spill. Have we ever experienced such a collective sense of helplessness as we did watching the relentless spewing of oil into the Gulf of Mexico via 24-7 spill-cam? Of all the images of 2010, that one I will miss the least. 8. My son complaining that he’s not growing. Worrying about your height is an occupational hazard when your sister is 6’1�, as is the fear that you’ll never equal, or better yet, surpass her reach. Worse yet, at 15 my son has watched plenty of his buddies sprout armpit hair, develop Barry White voices and grow biceps while he languishes in the throes of notquite-there-yet. But our late-bloomer boy is finally starting to shoot up. Suddenly, he’s taller than his mom, slaps the floor with size 12 feet, consumes food like he’s got a furnace in his belly, and even has a few wisps above his lip ... or maybe that’s chocolate cookie dough. 9. Joining Facebook. I created my profile in 2010, made “Friends� and feel no obligation to do anything more with Facebook in 2011. It seems so inherently narcissistic and trivial. I can understand

the allure of sharing information across the digital universe, but I don’t understand the value in posting “Just made the world’s most AWESOME grilled cheese!� 10. Stressing about the Red Sox. Just got to keep reminding myself: they’ve won two World Series in my lifetime. Jim Keogh is an award-winning editor. He lives in Worcester with his family.

TOP 10 Reasons Why 2010 Was The Best Year Ever BY

amanda roberge

1. 2010 was the first year our household was entirely clear of all things baby – no more breastfeeding, diapers or little feet poking into my ribs during the night. However, this also means preschool tuition, pre-pubescent emotional breakdowns and letting go of my right to park in the “Baby on Boardâ€? spot at BJs. Somehow, I will survive. 2. Despite my proclamations for the past 15 years that I would never, ever, ever (NEVER) own a dog, we became the proud adoptive parents of a 9-month old black pug named Rocco. It happened by complete circumstance and it took me about three full days to come to terms with why anybody would want one of these smelly creatures and how long I needed to wait before I could get rid of it. Then I fell in love with him and now we spoon at night. End of story. 3. I watched my 7-year-old independently take a swimming test at the community pond without asking me first. I watched my 9-year-old try out for the high school musical, and not get the part. I watched my 4-year-old open her first birthday party invitation – from a friend she had made at preschool with no help from me. I felt my heart swell again and again as I watched my daughters try new things, feel disappointment or pride‌but always land on their feet. 4. DVR made its first appearance in my home and don’t know how I have lived without it. Now I can watch the Real Housewives while I fold laundry no matter what time of the day it happens, and this, my friends, is pure magic. 5. The insomnia that regularly steals my sleep has become my twilight buddy. I started using it to my advantage – retreating into the quiet downstairs in the wee hours instead of lying awake staring at the ceiling. Making to-do lists, returning emails, folding laundry and catching up on movies I’d been meaning to watch. Ever say you wish you had more hours in the day? Insomnia reminded me that, in fact, we do. We just waste them by sleeping.

6. In 2010, I officially gave up on trying to lose 15 pounds – I decided that I am everything I always knew I could be – I am active and mindful and health conscious. And if all of that comes in a package a little larger than I imagined it would, then so be it. More of me to love. 7. My littlest daughter is still at home. And I love this for many reasons, but mostly because I can delay becoming a grown-up as long as she is still here, making me put on puppet shows, telling me what to “say� as her Barbie’s friend, tumbling behind me everywhere I go like a spritely shadow, a giggling puppy chasing my tail. And next year may bring something entirely different, but this year, I still had my sidekick and I loved 2010 for that. 8. I accepted the fact that I live with a pack of wolves. I clean the house, turn around and it’s a pigsty all over again within seconds. This year, I learned to close kids’ bedroom doors and save myself the frustration. I learned to throw half our crap into the closet with the hook and eye lock when company comes. I learned to fake it, and when it comes to housekeeping, I decided – in 2010 – that faking it works for me. 9. I came to understand that while I haven’t been a perfect mom, I’ve been a good mom. And maybe that’s going to be enough for all of us. 10. And the final reason why 2010 has been the best year ever? Because I can easily think of 10 more reasons, and perhaps 10 beyond that. And it makes me grateful for this crazy ride – the one with the kids and the husband and the cats and the dog. The emotional tilt-a-whirl of tears and hugs and tantrums and slamming doors. The roller coaster of marriage with the occasional tunnel of love. The family flume of rising, rising, rising – that feeling of having it all under control – before the log you are all strapped into crashes to a sloppy, wet halt and you wonder what just hit you. Life as a parent is like an amusement park – it costs a lot of money and you are tired at the end of the day, but in the end you can all agree it’s just fun. Here’s to sitting back and enjoying the ride in 2011 and beyond. Amanda Roberge is a Leominster-based freelance writer.

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BAYSTATEPARENT 39

you’re like most parents, there’s probably a little “mother bear” in you when it comes to protecting your kids. But despite your best efforts to keep your children safe and healthy, you may not be aware that new research proves that even with no symptoms, your child could have a brain injury. The highest rates of injury occur in sports that involve contact and collisions, and the majority of these happen during practice. While this article focuses primarily on football, the advice is essentially the same for bicycling, skateboarding, skiing and jumping on a trampoline. It is time to arm yourself with the facts and take steps to protect your kids – not just their arms and knees but most importantly, their brains.

IF

HEADS UP:

IT'S THE LAW In August 2010, Massachusetts legislators signed the "Act Relative to Safety Regulations for School Athletic Programs" into law as a result of concerns and lobbying by the Brain Injury Association among others. The law requires education of players, parents, coaches, etc., and dictates that following a concussion, a player can only return to play with a doctor's approval (see baystateparent.com and search football under "Parent Updates" for the details of this law). The law was fueled by the latest research which proves that repetitive blows to the head and body during practices and games are dangerous even if they do not result in concussions. This applies to students as well as adults. Sub-concussive hits can be just as damaging long term, and high school and college players typically sustain 1,000 -1,800 hits in a season.

S T R N O O

I S S H U T SR C I S N I U O R O C C Y D D P S E

L I N A CH BY

40 DECEMBER2010

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Risks To Your Child's Brain Include: Concussions: “A concussion is a mild brain injury caused by a bump, blow or jolt to the head or body that causes the brain to move rapidly inside the skull,” states the Brain Injury Association of Massachusetts on their Web site (biama. org). The brain is described by some as “soft tofu-like,” and when it jostles around inside the skull, it bumps into the hard edges and angles of the bones damaging neurons and soft tissue. The results can be very different depending on which part of the brain is injured and how fast the brain is moving when it collides into the skull. Cognitive Decline, Dementia in MidLife: The National Football League, Congress and the state of Massachusetts have taken a keen interest in the research of Dr. Ann McKee at Boston University School of Medicine’s Center for the Study of Traumatic Encephalopathy (bu.edu/ cste). The Co-Director of the Center, BU CTE, is Christopher Nowinksi, a former high school and college football player who was a celebrated, upcoming World Wide Entertainment professional wrestler until a concussion derailed his career. By studying the brains of deceased football players, Dr. McKee has determined that the repetitive head

traumas of football are leading to early neurodegenerative disease (i.e. Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy CTE) in nearly every case. Nowinksi’s own experience was that of repeated head injuries over many years, the final one being the last straw. He suffered PostConcussive Syndrome for years. McKee has even found early damage in the brains of late adolescents who played football and died prematurely in accidents. The NFL is donating funds and encouraging its players to participate in the BU study and to bequeath their brains to the research upon their deaths. Fifty to sixty professional football players are now participating in the ongoing study to chronicle any health problems they encounter as they age. Sub-Concussive Injuries: Dr. McKee said in an interview on Boston University’s National Public Radio station WBUR (October 25, 2010), “We need to reduce not just the big hits but decrease the sub-concussive hits that the linemen and linebackers experience in every play of the game.” Further, McKee warns that teens and children may be more vulnerable. “We think the earlier [the hits], the more detrimental.” She predicts that research in the next two or three years will prove whether a hit is more dangerous to a 13-year-old than to a 25 year-old. New technology is also making it possible to research the immediate effects of repeated head traumas. By installing accelerometers inside the helmets of football players, researchers can measure the linear and rotational forces impacting the skull when there is a head trauma caused by a blow to the body that moves the head sharply or a direct blow to the head. A National Institute of Health study of Division I college teams indicated that in one practice, a typical team had 200 collisions that measured above 120 g’s – that’s the equivalent of crashing a car into a concrete wall at 40 miles an hour. According to researchers at Purdue University, half of all high school football players suffer brain function impairment without a concussion. In one season, the researchers monitored every hit from the sidelines on computers and learned that some players sustained as many as 1,800 hits in a season, between practices and games, and even when players appeared to be uninjured, the computer diagnostics indicated significant brain deficits. What they don’t know yet is what the long-term consequences are. However, according to Tom Talavage, Associate Professor and head of the MRI Center at Purdue and one of the authors of this study, there was some good news, too, from this research. “It is probable that the observed impairments are preventable, or at least the consequences of them may potentially be mitigated, if we are able to detect them early enough.” If Talavage’s research is funded, they next want to verify their intuition that if someone has a functional impairment prior to getting concussed, s/he will have worse symptoms from the concussion. “Recent blood tests have been developed to detect brain injury, and such might,

in conjunction with our imaging, make such an analysis practical and fast,” said Talavage in an interview with BSP.

Teach your Kids the Risks The Department of Public Health recommends that student athletes participate in Online courses offered to coaches, or at least read printed materials with information about concussions. Typically, students are reluctant to admit

things. Brain function really defines you as a person. If players realize what may lay ahead for them, I think there will be every effort to reduce this trauma.” The number one thing Nowinski would tell his own kids about sports is, “If you get a concussion, it’s ok to tell your coach.” Besides his efforts at the BU Center for CTE, Nowinski cofounded the Sports Legacy Institute in 2007 to solve the sports concussion crisis, by studying Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy. Today the SLI suggests “Seven Steps for Brain Safety” (see Page 42).

Check out your Local Team • Have all the coaches, players and parents taken the online course to identify concussions? • Are qualified professionals overseeing the practices and games? Note: If a player is removed from playing because of an injury, he cannot return to play without the approval of an officially

Half of all high school football players suffer brain function impairment without a concussion. -PURDUE UNIVERSITY

they are hurting. Some fear they will appear weak. Others worry about letting down the team. Some just dismiss their discomfort. And of course, they are adolescents! “The cornerstone of this law [Massachusetts' "Concussion Law," Aug. 2010] is education,” says Neal McGrath, PhD., Director of Sports Concussion New England of Brookline. He says the single most important thing is to educate the student players themselves about the risks, symptoms and treatments. “Everyone agrees on one thing – if someone has a concussion, he must be fully recovered before going back into play.” However, under-reporting of injuries is a major obstacle to getting appropriate treatment. By staying in a game and playing injured, students risk a second head injury, which in a very small number of cases can lead to death from second impact syndrome. Untreated concussion symptoms can last weeks, months or years, and as the research shows, the damage might only become apparent in mid-life. “Even when students think they are recovered, subtle residual deficits may show up [in tests] and they need to be gone,” McGrath says. This is where professional medical assessment is critical. Talk to your children upfront. As Dr. Ann McKee stated on WBUR, “Players need to realize that …they are jeopardizing their minds later in life. They will lose their ability to think clearly or remember

When asked if he would let his own children play football or wrestle, he said, “I have concerns about boys playing football before high school, especially in programs that haven’t adopted SLI’s “7 Steps for Brain Safety” (see page 42). However, amateur wrestling is much safer for the brain. Pro wrestling - not a chance.”

Take it Seriously If your school or sports organization is not doing everything possible 1) to educate players, coaches, and parents; 2) to minimize the risks with changes in training regimens, with better helmets and in policies that strictly punish needless hits; and 3) to ensure that a concussed player is not put back into the game before he is properly tested and released – then consider removing your child from the program. The risks are very high when you bear in mind that Dr. McKee says that even in the cases of late-adolescent boys who played football and died prematurely, there was visible brain damage that would have affected them as they aged. For information on Massachusetts’ latest concussion law regarding head safety, please visit baystateparent.com and search “Parent Updates.” Mary Greendale is a Holliston-based freelance writer. Thoughts on this topic? E-mail editor@baystateparent.com.

licensed athletic trainer or medical professional who is not a parent/guardian of the player. An EMT or paramedic is not qualified. An Athletic Trainer is required at high school football games by law, but not at practices. • Does the team conduct pre-season cognitive tests? Dr. McGrath is available to work with communities on getting baselines done by testing three functions most commonly affected by concussions: short term memory, processing speed and ability to multi-task. After, schools can also lease the equipment and perform the baselines and then consult with neurology professionals, like McGrath, in the case of an injury. This baseline makes it much easier to diagnose an injury and to track improvements. • Has the team implemented any changes in their practice regimens or taken other measures to reduce exposure to hits, for example upgraded helmets? Some newer helmets provide more cushioning and a broader face guard. Pop Warner has an exclusive arrangement for Schutt helmets, which, according to the manufacturer’s Web site are “the most technologically advanced” to ensure that players are using “the safest equipment.” • If the players use different helmets each time they play or practice, do coaches check the fit? BAYSTATEPARENT 41

• Are there meetings with social workers, guidance counselors, teachers, et al to create a plan to accommodate a concussed player in school? The student will likely need more rest. Does the plan adjust the workload, offer support in testtaking, etc. depending on the symptoms displayed? Many times in the past, these accommodations were not made and students’ learning and grades were hurt. • Is everyone involved taking concussions seriously?

7 Steps for Brain Safety The Sports Legacy Institute’s Minimum Recommended Guidelines 1. Pre-season education for coaches

WHO’S COACHING OUR

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steven king

• Are the coaches monitoring players’ behavior in practices as carefully as they do in games where people are watching?

Name: Lynn Toomey, Town: Lunenburg, Mom of: Jake (DiBattista), 17; Emma and Kate (Marinchev), 8, Job: Founder, The Let’s Gogh Company (Let’s Gogh Art, Let’s Gogh Get Fit, Let’s Gogh Dance, Let’s Gogh Party, and Color. Learn & Play). letsgoghcompany.com, Coaching experience: 25 years, girls and boys basketball, soccer, T-ball

2. Pre-season education for athletes 3. Pre-season education for parents 4. Coaches use CDC’s Heads UP clipboard sticker [a sheet of emergency information coaches should have on hand] 5. Adopt CDC’s concussion action plan for removal and return to play 6. Prevention through neck strengthening 7. Prevention through overall brain trauma reduction For more information, visit sportslegacy.org.

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Trading the Baton for a Basketball In the 5th grade, there was a boy’s basketball team. Girls were offered baton twirling. I decided I wanted to stop twirling and play basketball. So I went to the principal and asked if I could play on the boy’s team. He initially said no and I think when my mother (who was a teacher at the school) threatened to quit, he changed his mind. At the tender age of 10, I had taken a giant leap for women’s rights. Even though I was better than most of the boys, I sat the bench. However, the next year I was in the starting line-up (thanks to Coach Harrison), and still the only girl on the team. Editor’s Note: Lynn, the youngest of three older brothers, went on to play basketball and field hockey in high school. She also ran track. She worked hard, becoming an award-winning athlete with a passion for sports.

All Grown Up Most recently, sports have taken on new meaning with the launch of a series of books I’m authoring and publishing for young athletes entitled, Color. Learn & Play (colorlearnandplay.com). The goal of the series is to give children a combination picture book, how-to book, activity book, coloring book and scrapbook all in one, all about their favorite sports. In my spare time, I still “play” sports too. Not only with my children, but also on my own. I’m a new triathlete and I play basketball in the Lunenburg Women’s League.

Proud Moment

(not what you might think) One of those small, but special moments came in my life when my son was 15. He was playing basketball at a local outdoor court with his friends a couple of times a week. One night, he asked me to come

play with them. Although he didn’t say anything at the time, I realized that he was proud of me and wanted to show his friends that his mom could play basketball with the boys!! It’s one thing for you as a parent to be proud of your children, but there’s something really special about your children being proud of you. So, in this small way, this is one way that my children have benefited from sports. I think it’s extremely important for children to be proud of their parents… no matter how that pride originates, with sports or otherwise.

Moms and their Sons Having an athletic mom and dad gave our son some extra benefits. I was always ‘playing’ right along with him (which I encourage every parent to do, regardless of their skills in a particular sport). Whether we were ice skating, skiing, throwing the football around, playing 1-on-1 at the hoop, swimming, biking, etc., it gave me that extra bonding time with him that some moms miss out on with their sons, as well as some ground between us. I think he’s a good athlete as a result too. Unfortunately, now I can’t toss the football around with him any longer. He’s so big and so strong…he just might throw it 'through' me instead of 'to' me!!

Go Celtics Go! I was a huge Celtics fan in the 80s. Larry Bird was my idol. I don’t remember missing a game on TV. I didn’t go to a game until I was a young adult and I remember being in awe of the Garden, the players, the pace and excitement of the game. I took all of the kids to Fenway this summer, and I’m planning a trip to see the Celtics play this winter.

Globetrotting: The Highlight of My Young Life My brother Scott and I were the

basketball players in the family (in addition to my mom) and we loved the Globetrotters. My mother took us to see them play, and it was the highlight of my young life. We whistled the theme song non-stop. My brother taught himself many of their tricks we saw the players do, and I managed to learn the spin on your finger trick. I haven’t thought about our favorite players, Meadowlark Lemon and Curly Neal in years! I encourage all parents to take their kids out to see them…it’s great fun and funny, and they are celebrating their 85th anniversary. Editor’s Note: The Harlem Globetrotters are coming to MA this February. harlemglobetrotters.com.

Positions on a Basketball Team? No problem! I believe that we over-simplify things for children because we think we have to in order for them to 'get it.' I was once told at a coaches meeting for youth basketball that we should give 1st and 2nd graders numbers for each of the positions on a team. As if a 7-year old couldn’t learn (2) guards, (2) forwards and a center position! My 7-year-olds figured out how to work the Wii, my Blackberry and the three remotes in my family room. Positions on a basketball team?…No problem!

Mentors in Sports and Life I had two amazing coaches in high school. Richard Movsessian for field hockey and Patrick Murphy for basketball. Both had prolific coaching careers at North Middlesex Regional High School in Townsend, MA and both inspired me to play my hardest every time I went out on the field or court. Thanks Coach Mo and Murph for being my mentors in sports and in life.

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ON THE

ROAD AGAI AGAIN N When Parents Travel for Work BY

heather kempskie, kellan stover, illustrator

F

or a younger generation, business travel may appear to be glamorous: An escape from the otherwise routine days at the office complete with a hotel room and dinners all at the company’s expense. But if you are one of the millions of parents who travel for business, it may have lost some of its appeal by now. “I do feel some guilt about leaving Patrick,” says Bellingham dad Dave Healey referring to his 5-year-old son. “It is more of counting the days until I get back and it is a great relief when I am back. I just want to be there for him and, of course, my wife Kristine.” According to a recent survey by American Demographics, nearly 90 percent of business-traveling parents say it is difficult to cope with being away from their home and family. And it can be equally difficult for the spouse and children left behind. “When Dave is away, I miss him,” says Healey’s wife Kristine. “Even after all of this time - we have been married for 19 years so you'd think I would be used to this - but I still miss him. Even with one child I really do notice and appreciate all that he does to help me especially at the end of the day when I am tired.” Moms especially feel the undeniable pull to conquer it all as a way to tackle the guilt if they are the ones who travel for business. From prepping for their own trip to making sure things run smoothly on the home front in their absence, stress usually builds. “The hardest part is getting the family

organized before the trip,” says Kellie Carrara, a Franklin mom who runs fashion shows in New York and Chicago. “I try to lay out all my daughter's clothing and make lunches ahead, schedule play dates, birthday parties, gymnastics class and everything else!” Christine Drew, a sales manager for RSA, the security division of EMC, based in Bedford, is on the road 50 percent of the time and says she feels pulled in a lot of directions. “There are a lot of things that compete for attention in my life. It’s a constant balancing act. The reality is sometimes things don’t work and ultimately there is some disappointment,” she adds. Traveling parents agree that having a support system is critical to their sanity and survival. Drew says that she wouldn’t be able to travel without her husband’s support so in turn she works hard to show him support when she can’t physically be there. “Just this morning I was getting texts from my husband asking whether he needed to make lunch for our daughter and asking my opinion on what she should wear for pattern match-up day at school,” says the Boxford mom of two daughters ages 6 and 8.

Leave the Guilt Behind Although resilient and adaptable, most kids say they feel pangs of sadness when mom or dad has to be away. Weston Narewski, 12, of Wrentham, says he’s a “little sad” when his dad Mike travels for work.

“(The hardest part is) him missing cool and important stuff like his birthday and my birthday,” says Weston. Don't pack guilt when business travel takes you away from home. Area parents share their best-kept secrets for keeping their children close to their hearts while they’re apart. Snail Mail It: Carrara sends her 5-year-old daughter Bella postcards from the road. “When (Bella) was in preschool her director used the postcards as a geographical reference and mapped my travels,” she says.

Talk About It: “Patrick and I will talk about the things that we will do when I get back like going to play a round of mini-golf, practicing soccer or tennis or baseball,” says Healey. “It seems to make the days go by faster as we both have these things to look forward to.” Count It Down: “When our daughter was younger and couldn’t really grasp the concept of time, we would make a paper chain with links to represent each day I’d be gone,” explains traveling mom Kristina Lumsden of Brookline. “We’d make it together and I’d write a note on each link. She would take off a link each morning

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and she’d be able to get a sense as to when I would be coming home.� Take Something Along: “For a time, my son was totally enthralled with G.I. Joe and my daughter loved Disney Princesses,� says traveling dad Kevin Kempskie of Bellingham. “I took a few of their figurines on the road with me and e-mailed photos of them in various places: meeting rooms, restaurants and my hotel room. It proved to be a lot of fun!� Web-cam It: Cost of webcam: $40. Time it takes to set up: One hour or less. Ability to talk for free and “see� each other: Priceless. Turn It into a Family Trip: If the destination is desirable and the timing is right, the family may be able to tag along. “I once took my daughter along with me on a trip to Chicago,� says Carrara. “My mother flew in to meet me and watched her while I worked, but we were able to celebrate her third birthday at American Girl Place on Michigan Avenue.�

For Those Left Behind Impending business trips mean the other parent must be ready to do it all whether it's carting kids around to soccer practice, scheduling sitters or coping with illnesses. When Patrick had an allergic reaction to medication he was on and was unable to walk, mom Kristine Healey got “pretty freaked out.� Her husband Dave was not only away, but also traveling in China and the time difference made it difficult for the two to connect. “Patrick was definitely old enough to sense my anxiety so I tried my best to hide it,� Kristine remembers. “I do remember putting him to bed though and then going to my bedroom and bawling my eyes out. That really helped. And I did a lot of self-talk but I would have preferred to have Dave right there with me.� This past August, Lori Narewski’s husband Mike was away from home all but five days. “I think the hardest part is that while he’s away we get into a routine and when he returns everything seems to be turned upside down,� explains Narewski, mom to boys Matt, 10 and Weston, 12. “Over the years I’ve learned to let some things go. So what if we usually do homework after dinner and now they’re playing outside with Mike? It’s a matter of me being aware and accepting of that.� Narewski, who lives in Wrentham, is coordinating a support group for other local women who have spouses that travel for work. *She hopes the group can share a common bond and offer each other tips and advice. For herself, if she needs an immediate break she may run to the store to do an errand or call upon a friend or family

member to watch her sons. She especially savors her quiet time once everyone has gone to bed. Asked if they’d love to travel for their job one day, her son Weston replied, “No, because I think it would be boring.� While brother Matthew had a different take especially if it meant being a professional football player. “It depends on what business I’m in and what I’d be doing.� Narewski has mixed feelings too. “I used to travel for work and sometimes I’ll think, ‘Boy, it’d be nice to travel again,’� admits Narewski. “We all think (our spouses) are having fun but that’s not always the case. Sometimes I know for sure he’d just rather be home than having dinner alone or being by himself in a hotel room.�

Gifts for all your cuties

Heather Kempskie is a Bellingham-based freelance writer and mom of two. Her husband, Kevin, frequently travels internationally. To learn more about Heather and her book, The Siblings’ Busy Book, visit busysiblings.com. *For information on the Wrentham-based support group for women whose spouses travel, e-mail Lori Narewski at narewski35@comcast.net.

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Resources The Business Traveling Parent: How to Stay Close to Your Kids When You're Far Away Includes 100 ideas for before you leave, while you were gone and before you come home. By Dan Verdick Peekuboo.com: An online library of free toddler and preschool activities that can be shared over video chat. A great way to play with your kids when they travel!

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my battle

doug page

I’ve been living with Alzheimer’s for nearly eight years, when my mother, at 60, was diagnosed with this Godawful disease. I’ve never experienced anything more stressful, more emotionally extracting than watching my mother suffer with this terrible condition.

T

he best reason the doctors could give me for her dementia was that she suffered from depression. And while 60 is an early age to be hobbled with Alzheimer’s, there are plenty of people who are diagnosed at an even younger age. I met a 43-year-old man with it while I was touring assisted living facilities for my mother. I heard of a 42-year-old woman who was also stricken with Alzheimer’s. Sure, they’re the rarity. Stimulating your mind with a book or a game is a fine idea. But if you really want to prevent this disease from afflicting you, go for a run at least three times a week. Moving the blood around your heart and your head will do more to keep your brain in shape than anything else. Not that reading is bad by any means. But there’s no getting around cardiovascular exercise. Your heart requires it and now we know our brains do too. Today, at 67, my mother lives in the Alzheimer’s unit of an assisted living facility. The attendants bathe and dress her and make sure she eats. The annual cost? About $80,000. And it’s all private pay. The annual tab for her to live where she does is being paid for through her IRA and the money she made when she sold her house. If you want to know stress, check out what it’s like to watch the stock market take a nosedive, as it did in the final months of 2008, and then wonder how your mother will pay her bills. It’s not like she’s employable. Her money has to last her for as long as she lives. Thankfully, we saw a turnaround in the market. I think she’ll be able to pay her bills for as long as she lives. Add to that stress the time I had to agree to put her on anti-psychotic drugs. In dementia patients, they’re considered “FDA-approved black

label drugs,” as her doctor explained to me. Meaning death is a real possible side effect When it could happen is anyone’s guess. But it’s caused me more stress and issues than I care to acknowledge. In effect, by agreeing to this medication, I signed my mother’s death warrant. At least that’s what it feels like. And every morning, as I’m waking, my first thought is, “I killed my mother.” Alzheimer’s was first described to me as the “long, slow good-bye.” I wish it were faster. My mother’s a shell of the lady she used to be. In her youth, she was vibrant, beautiful and full of life. Now she’s worn down, haggard looking, 30 pounds overweight, can’t remember my name or anyone else’s. “Stay with me. I like you. You’re nice to me,” are the only things she says now. She takes a battery of pills daily to keep going. But the sharp mind that she used to have is gone. The tragedy of this situation is that physically she’s in pretty good shape. Mentally, she’s a vacuum, not even remembering words said to her seconds ago. My best wish, the one thing I pray for, is that she dies soon. Her dignity will only be restored through her passing, which can’t come soon enough. Don’t let this disease happen to you. Go for a run three times a week and change your diet. And while you’re at it, find a good book to read. Do something, god damnit! Because if you don’t, you’ll cause more strain, stress and emotional upheaval on your loved ones than you can ever possibly imagine. Hopefully, that isn’t one of your life goals. Freelance writer Doug Page lives in Medfield with his wife and two sons.

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FREE Flights for Patients in Need Imagine if you had to depend on air transportation for your medical care or for the care of someone you love. The financial stress would be above and beyond. A special organization, Angel Flight Northeast, got off the ground in 1996 providing free flights to children and adults in need of critical medical care who do not have the resources to access other means of transportation. Approximately 40% of AFNE’s patients are children suffering from life-threatening cancer, severe burns or crippling diseases. For more information on receiving help or contributing a gift, visit angelflightne.org.

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Birthday/ Party Room Central Mass’s only dedicated Climbing Facility! Sign up now for our Week Long Summer Camp Programs • 14,000 square feet of amazing climbing walls • 60 different top rope stations • Climbing walls from 15 - 40 feet high! • Massive lead arch, and super long overhangs! • Separate climbing wall just for kids and parents • Classes for beginners: lead and top rope belaying • Rentals and a retail shop for climbing gear • Lounge area, w/ free wifi • A large bouldering area, with top-outs

Traveling Farm Animals for your Party or Event! Year Round • Inside or Out Fun & Educational Baby Animal Parties, Theme Parties, Living Nativities, Petting Zoos, Animals for Therapy & more!

978-297-1221 animalcraze@ymail.com www.animalcraze.info

Animal Craze

508-852-ROCK • 299 Barber Ave. Worcester, (Across the street from the Higgins Armory, near Sam’s Club, at the 190/290 interchange)

www.franfriedman.com

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Offering Beading, Mosaics, Stuff-Your-Own Animals, Paint Me Tees, Silver Clay and PaintYour-Own Pottery Parties

!$23 !(13'# 8 / "* &$2 1.4-# %1$$ &(%3 %.1 !(13'# 8 "'(+# >

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BYO CDs, Cake, Soda, Pizza Etc. Offering 2 Large Private Party Rooms

centralrockgym.com

Indoor Birthday Parties at Backyard Adventures $

199.00

Enjoy 2 hours of playing time on our Towers, Turbo Slide, Rock Wall and Inflatable.

Free Goody Bags

7ESTBORO s 178 Turnpike Rd. (Rt.9) 1 mile east from Lowe’s Rt. 9 (next to White City East), Shrewsbury • 508-798-9950 • www.claytimestudio.com

WWW.BAMASS.COM

PaPa Gino’s Pizza package 2 cheese pizzas, 15 juice boxes, plates, napkins and forks $

30.00

BAYSTATEPARENT 49

Party Planner To advertise, call Stephanie Pearl at 774-364-0296 or email stephaniep@baystateparent.com

Professional Chefs Sean & Eliana McCabe bring you a cutting edge culinary experience.

Specialities include Sushi parties, instructonal lessons for kids & adults.

For More Information Call

508.329.1416 Westboro

Jump Around Rentals

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Art classes for all Ages [508] 450-0664

Beauty and the Feast

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Jumparoundrentals.net 617-323-8353 Make your child’s party one to remember!

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Jump Around Rentals offers many styles and sizes of bouncy houses, popcorn, sno-cone, cotton candy machines, and even dunk tanks!

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Birthday Parties Adult Classes Early Release Days Community Outreach

CONTACT: Chelyanne & Brian

(508) 943-4549

Serving New England for 12 years!

www.sparksartstudio.com

Email: Karaoke4kidz@Yahoo.com www.Karaoke4Kidz.com

Check out our website for our extended inventory!

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In the Greater Boston Area, Contact Mark • 781-773-1304 In Western and Central MA and Connecticut, Contact Paul • 888-811-3270 Or visit www.Games2U.com for more information.

Birthdays Bar/Bat Mitzvahs Weddings/Showers Graduations Proms Dances Fundraisers Holiday/Business

Maggie the Clown Formerly of Ringling Bros. Circus! Performing over 25 years! UĂŠ >“ˆÂ?ÞÊ Â˜ĂŒiĂ€ĂŒ>ˆ˜“iÂ˜ĂŒĂŠĂŠĂŠ ĂŠĂŠĂŠ ÂœĂ€ĂŠ Â˜ĂžĂŠ Ă›iÂ˜ĂŒt UĂŠ >ViĂŠ*>ÂˆÂ˜ĂŒÂˆÂ˜}]ĂŠ ĂŠĂŠĂŠ >Â?Â?ÂœÂœÂ˜ĂŠ/ĂœÂˆĂƒĂŒÂˆÂ˜}]ĂŠ ĂŠĂŠĂŠ Ă•}}Â?ˆ˜}]ĂŠ >}ˆV]ĂŠ ĂŠĂŠĂŠ>˜`ĂŠ ÂœĂ€it UĂŠ->Â˜ĂŒ>ĂŠ ˜`ĂŠ"ĂŒÂ…iÀÊ ĂŠĂŠĂŠ-i>ĂƒÂœÂ˜>Â?ĂŠ Â…>Ă€>VĂŒiĂ€ĂƒĂŠĂŠĂŠĂŠ ĂŠĂŠĂŠ/œœtĂŠ ÂœÂœÂŽĂŠ >Ă€Â?Ăžt

413-245-1076 www.maggietheclown.com

“All Live� Insects, Small Reptiles & Animals

The Coolest Party EVER! There’s Nothing Else Like It. Fordshometown.com 1-800-649-9992

Theatre Programs, Classes and Workshops for Ages 4 to 18 Call us or visit the web for more info... info@bostonchildrenstheatre.org 617-424-6634 www.bostonchildrenstheatre.org

50 DECEMBER2010

Have your Birthday Party at Babson College Skating Center

Sound d the h Al Alarm! The Fire Truck Will Go To:

For more information please Contact the Babson Skating Center at 781-239-6056

Big Joe

Å Birthday Parties Å Pre-Schools Å Daycare Centers Your 911 for Party Å Family Days Emergencies! Å Weddings Å Taking Reservations Å Parties Year Round Serving the south shore For Reservations Call: 339-933-0353

Dinosaur Adventures

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New England’s #1 Traveling Animal Show

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See Dinosaur skulls, T-Rex teeth and foot prints, along with today’s living dinosaurs such as Crocodile, monitor lizard, turtle, bird and scorpion.

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For Bookings and Info Call: 617-713-4349 E-mail: BigJoe@BigJoe.com Visit me on the web at: www.BigJoe.com

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• Original & Classic Stories • Puppets, Props and Surprises

To advertise, call Stephanie Pearl at 774-364-0296 or email stephaniep@baystateparent.com

afiretruckforall.com

the Storyteller Storytelling fun for Birthday Parties, Schools, Daycare Centers, Library Programs, Special Events and TV Featuring:

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BIRTHDAY PACKAGE: $250.00 minimum of 12 guests. Each guest after 12 is an additional $20.00 Includes: Public skate admission and rental skates, Reserved Birthday Room for the duration of public skating. Pizza and 1 beverage per guest. We do not include cake or tableware.

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• Largest variety of reptiles • Largest variety of mammals • Bugs and more • Birthday parties

• Schools • Camps • All occasions

Great fun and learning for any dinosaur enthusiast! *This is a traveling only presentation

Fully Licensed & Insured Education Center Open Year Round!

www.animaladventures.net 978-779-8988

www.animaladventures.net 978-779-8988

Have a Birthday Coming Up? Book your party now Call today or visit our website for more info: 781-352-2494 www.mini-athletes.com 290 Vanderbilt Ave. Norwood

Look What We Found At baystateparent wants to know:

What’s your great iParty find? Every month, iParty will award a $75 iParty gift certificate to a baystateparent reader for sharing an unexpected find at our favorite party supply store.

December Winner: Kim Livingston of Webster loved the scented flameless “Everlasting Glow” candles she found at iParty, perfect for the holidays. “They look great, smell great and are a great deal,” she says.

To be considered, send the name and description of your great iParty find to editor@baystateparent.com. Please include your name, address, phone and email.

Join the Birthday Club! Are you part of the iParty Birthday Club? Well, what are you waiting for?! Sign up today and start receiving iParty exclusive in-store savings and discounts, contest information, FUN party and project ideas along with so much more! Just go to www.iparty.com, complete the form and join the FUN today! BAYSTATEPARENT 51

Season eason of Savings ~ Season of Savings ~ Season of Savings ~ Season of Savings ~ Season of Savings

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…ˆÂ?`Ă€iÂ˜ĂŠÂ?i>Ă€Â˜ĂŠ>ĂŠÂ˜iĂœĂŠĂƒÂŤÂœĂ€ĂŒĂŠi>VÂ…ĂŠĂœiiÂŽ * Soccer * Basketball

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with this coupon. Registration open now through the end of January for first session in 2011. ÂˆĂ€ĂŒÂ…`>ÞÊ*>Ă€ĂŒÂˆiĂƒĂŠ For terms and details contact Mini Athletes ÂœĂ€ĂŠ Â?Â?ĂŠ }iĂƒ

Now is Your Chance to

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Gift CertiďŹ cates Available

508-366-5025 -ILK 3T 2TE 7ESTBOROUGH -! -ILLBROOK 3T 7ORCESTER -! WWW METROWESTYOGA NET

Rejuvenate Your Look this Winter! $10 Off any service

Radiesse wrinkle ďŹ ller special!

(1st time clients) or

Buy 1, Get 1 50% off ($300 savings)! Learn more about ďŹ llers at www.visagesculpture.com

Maximum Image Salon & Spa Located inside the Woburn Mall

$5 Off any 3 Products (excludes OPI, Moroccan Oil, skincare)

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Buy one adult admission get one youth (ages 1-18) admission free!

Valid with coupon only. Not valid with other offers. Expires 3/31/11

www.carlemuseum.org

The Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art 125 West Bay Road, Amherst MA 01002

Savings from The Carle!

Season eason of Savings ~ Season of Savings ~ Season of Savings ~ Season of Savings ~ Season of Savings

OPEN GYM

Tuesday, December 28th & Wednesday, December 29th TO PM s -EMBERS .ON -EMBERS

Gift CertiďŹ cates Make Great Christmas Gifts! The Gymnastic Place...Where Learning Is Fun!!

FREE

gift with purchase over $35 valid thru 1/15/11 Limit one coupon per household not to be combined with other offers

www.everythingcutie.com Johnny Appleseed Plaza, #ENTRAL 3T ,EOMINSTER s Mon. - Sat., 9-6, Thurs. 9-7, Sun. 10-5 BAYSTATEPARENT 53

CLASSIFIEDS

Blow out clearance on name brand kids wear!

Save 50 to 70% off retail. Exclusive limited time offer! Log onto www.magickidsusa.com. Mention discount code MK05939 for huge savings!

Convert Your Vinyl Records into MP3’s

No computer needed. Play and record your old records directly onto USB flashstick. Brand new, still in box. Retail: $129.95. Asking $35. 508-832-4207

Craftsman 10� Tablesaw

Belt Drive - Large Table. Good condition. Asking $100. 508-832-4207

The Budget Coach

Will you spend too much this holiday season? Are you in control of your money? Do you have a budget? It’s time to meet with the Coach! 508-792-9087 • thebudgetcoach@aol.com

Surrogate Mothers Needed Established Surrogacy Program seeks loving women ages 21-43, to carry couples’ biological babies. You must be a non-smoker, and prior birth experience is required. Be a part of a miracle. The rewards are more than financial. For more information, please call 888-363-9457 or visit our website: www.reproductivepossibilities.com

ADVERTISERS’DIRECTORY

Adventure Boot Camp LLC .............................................................. 46 Attorney James Connors ................................................................ 20 Barefoot Books ............................................................................ 30 Batter Up Bakery .......................................................................... 28 Bay State Skating School .............................................................. 21 Becker College ............................................................................. 11,23 Between Trips............................................................................... 12 Boston Children’s Museum ............................................................. 4 Boston Children’s Theatre............................................................... 43 Broadway Across America .............................................................. 45 Charter ........................................................................................ 56 Children’s Dentists of Worcester/Moheban/Darvish ........................... 13 Claytime...................................................................................... 22 Concord Museum .......................................................................... 33 Cornerstone Academy .................................................................... 3 Cutie Patutie’s .............................................................................. 45,53 Dance Prism................................................................................. 21 Devereux Therapeutic Foster Care.................................................... 45 Dr. Bruce Fieldman ....................................................................... 7 Dr. Mel........................................................................................ 44 Ecotarium .................................................................................... 2 Fallon Ready Med......................................................................... 5 Fayerweather St School................................................................. 37 Favreau Forestry........................................................................... 42 Finagle A Bagel ............................................................................ 47 First Night Worcester ..................................................................... 6 Flutter By Moments ...................................................................... 52 Glow Baby ................................................................................... 28 Gods Little Children ....................................................................... 44 Guild of St. Agnes......................................................................... 17 Gymboree.................................................................................... 17 Hanover Theatre ........................................................................... 55 Health Alliance ............................................................................. 22 Honey Farms ............................................................................... 54 Iparty Retail Stores Corp. ............................................................... 51 KidStrong .................................................................................... 5 Lakeshore Learning Materials ......................................................... 28,31 Lexington Montessori School .......................................................... 18 Love Your Space Organizing ........................................................... 29

Marini Farm ................................................................................. 39 Maximum Image Salon ................................................................. 52 McDonald’s .................................................................................. 38 Metro West Yoga .......................................................................... 28,52 Mini Athletes................................................................................ 52 Mothers and Company .................................................................. 26 Next Generation/Sudbury .............................................................. 19 Next Level Fitness......................................................................... 46 OshKosh ...................................................................................... 30 Panera Bread ............................................................................... 26 Parenting Solutions ....................................................................... 38 Paula Swift Photography................................................................ 37 Riverbend School .......................................................................... 43 Rocky Acres Farm ......................................................................... 10 Salem Cross inn ........................................................................... 54 Scribble It .................................................................................... 43 Seeking Sitters ............................................................................. 43 Sha’arei Shalom........................................................................... 13 Sharks Minor Holdings................................................................... 9 Shrewsbury Montessori.................................................................. 35 Skribbles Learning Center............................................................... 19 Stella Bella .................................................................................. 43 Sweet Bliss Confections ................................................................. 28 Tag City Engraving ........................................................................ 47 The Chidlren’s Garden at teh VNA.................................................... 38 The Eric Carle Museum .................................................................. 53 The Gymnastics Place .................................................................... 53 The Rugged Bear .......................................................................... 29 Tiny Tag Designs ........................................................................... 29 Volo Farm.................................................................................... 13 Wheelock College Theatre .............................................................. 4 Wife Savers ................................................................................. 10 Wild Child Gear ............................................................................ 53 Womens Health of Central Mass ..................................................... 26 WOO Card ................................................................................... 29 Worcester Academy of Music .......................................................... 43 Worcester Art Museum .................................................................. 18 WXLO ......................................................................................... 16

Enter to win

THE LAST AIRBENDER

Stop by Your Neighborhood Honey Farms Today and Pick Up Your Coffee Club Card

DVD/Blu-ray combo pack Available On DVD/Blu-ray™ On November 16 Deadline to enter is December 31st

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5IF)BOPWFS5IFBUSF PSH t 4)08 (7469) 2 Southbridge Street t Worcester, MA 01608 Discounts available for members, groups, kids, students, and WOO card holders Worcester CenterCenter for theforPerforming Arts,Arts, a registered not-for-proďŹ t organization,owns owns operates Hanover Theatre the Performing Arts. Worcester the Performing a registered not-for-proďŹ t 501(c)(3) 501(c)(3) organization, andand operates The The Hanover Theatre for the for Performing Arts.

BAYSTATEPARENT 55

Sprout,® the 24-hour preschool channel, is now available! Now you and your preschooler can watch your favorite friends like Barney, Caillou and Elmo everyday, plus meet new friends from shows like The Sunny Side Up Show and The Good Night Show.® Along with crafts, songs, stories and

SproutOnline.com

more, Sprout makes every day a great day to share together.

Sprout is now available on Charter Digital channel 112. Call 888-GET-CHARTER today. © 2010 Children’s Network, LLC. All rights reserved. Sprout and the Sprout logo are service marks of Children’s Network, LLC. The Good Night Show® and associated characters, trademarks and design elements are owned by Children’s Network, LLC. All Rights Reserved. The Sprout Sharing Show and The Sunny Side Up Show and their associated characters, trademarks and design elements are owned by Children’s Network, LLC. Sesame Street® and associated characters, trademarks and design elements are owned and licensed by Sesame Workshop. © 2010 Sesame Workshop. All Rights Reserved. © 2010 COOKIE JAR ENTERTAINMENT™ Les Editions Chouette. Berenstain Bears characters © Stan & Jan Berenstain The Berenstain Bears® Berenstain Enterprises Inc. Barney & FriendsTM © 2010 Lyons Partnership, L.P. Bob the BuilderTM © 2010 HIT Entertainment Limited and Keith Chapman. Fifi and the FlowertotsTM © 2010 Chapman Entertainment Limited. All Rights Reserved. © 2010 Charter Communications. Services not available in all areas. Other restrictions may apply. Call for full details.

56 DECEMBER2010

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