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December 2018 • free Pennsylvania

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Department of

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P H I L A D E L P H I A

Contents

DECEMBER 2018 • Vol. 29, No. 12

In This Issue 4 A Pro’s Hand-Washing Tips 6 Read Local 6 Win It! 8 Pop-up Books 12 Don’t Fear the Cheer 13 Meet Our CoverKid 14 Welcome to Cyber School 16 Charter Schools and LD 18 Toy Test 2018 28 MomSpeak Sneak Peek

7 Books; 7 Education; 9 Events 13 Health; 15 Camp 19 Holiday Events 29 Child Care; 30 Bulletin Board

The experts in orthopaedic care for kids

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Family Fun 20 Sights of the Season 22 Day-by-Day Calendar 27 Holiday Performances Ad Sections

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18

On Our Cover

CoverKids winner Anina F. of Aston, PA.

Photos by Bev Michel Photography — West Chester, PA; Michelphoto.com

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Moms Know

A Pro’s Guide to Hand Washing

1412-1414 Pine St., Philadelphia, PA 19102 215-291-5560; 856-667-3555; 302-224-3020 Toll Free: 888-890-4668 Fax: 215-291-5565 Visit us online at MetroKids.com

President: Nancy Lisagor, PhD, ext. 109 nlisagor@metrokids.com

By Katie Lockwood Each fall I teach my children’s preschool a lesson on hand hygiene. Quite intentionally I plan this for the start of flu season, hoping to minimize the spread of illnesses around our classroom.

Without fail, my children are always embarrassingly bad when judged on the thoroughness of their hand washing, which always gets laughs from the audience.

In terms of things that I teach children, hand washing may be one of the most important. In my preschool lesson I use a fluorescent hand gel called Glo-Germ and a blacklight flashlight to simulate how well they wash their hands and the “germs” that are left behind from poor technique.

I also teach them to cover their cough by sneezing or coughing into their elbows or cough pocket instead of their hands.

The kids love these visuals and proudly tell me whenever I’m in the classroom about how they used their cough pocket.

The other parents often tell me that their kids become more vigilant hand washers and monitors at home.

Beyond my love of visiting my children’s classroom, the CDC says that teaching people in the community about hand washing reduces diarrhea and respiratory illnesses. Some studies have shown a 16–21 percent reduction in respiratory illnesses, such as colds, in the general population after hand-washing education. It also reduces absenteeism due to gastrointestinal illness in school children by 29–57 percent.

While we all know when and how we should wash our hands, it is also a skill that we can be lazy about and reminders about technique can help keep us healthier.

So make sure you wash your hands well this season or else a local preschooler may give you a lecture on hygiene.

Katie Lockwood, MD, is a mother and pediatrician in Philadelphia and a contributor to MetroKids’ MomSpeak through her Mommy Call blog. Opinions expressed here do not necessarily reflect those of her employer.

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Tips for Germ-free Hands

1. Make sure you lather your hands in soap and don’t forget under your nails and around your wrists.

2. Scrub your hands for at least 20 seconds, which is two Happy Birthday songs.

3. Antibacterial hand soap is not necessary and plain soap works well.

4. When soap and water are not available, use a hand sanitizer that is at least 60 percent alcohol.

Publisher: Darlene Weinmann, ext. 108 dweinmann@metrokids.com Managing Editor: Dave Gilmartin, ext. 102 editor@metrokids.com Resource Editor: Cheyenne Shaffer, ext. 101 calendar@metrokids.com Contributing Writers: Terri Akman, Suzanne Koup-Larsen, Frank Lipsius, Kathy O’Connell, Ann L. Rappoport, PhD Production Manager: Veronica Hanna, ext. 103 production@metrokids.com Finance: Marcella Reis, ext. 104 finance@metrokids.com Marketing/Circulation: Susan Braverman, ext. 100 marketing@metrokids.com Interns: Matthew Brooks, Ben Lowenthal

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MetroKids® is published monthly by KidStuff Publications, Inc. © 2018 MetroKids® Magazine. All rights reserved by KidStuff Publications, Inc. ISSN 1094-8503. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. Publisher is not responsible for unsolicited material. MetroKids® or KidStuff Pub­lica­t­ions do not assume responsibility for statements or opinions expressed by editorial contributors or advertisers. MetroKids® and SpecialKids® are trademarks of KidStuff Publications, Inc. The acceptance of advertising does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service which is fraudulent or misleading in nature. Advertisers indemnify and hold harmless the publisher from any claim and all loss, expense, or liability arising out of the publication of any advertisement.

SUBSCRIPTIONS: U.S.A. $36, one year; $72, two years. Single copies free.

AWARD–WINNING MEMBER OF THE:

DECEMBER 2018

SSVC0316007

MK Memo

12

DAYS Gifts

Win It!

Read Local Authors, illustrators and topics with ties to the Delaware Valley You can eat local. You can drink local. Can you read local? Sure.

In the last year, we’ve come across several authors, illustrators and books that have a connection to our area. So as you shop for gifts for young readers this holiday season, here are some hometown options.

Hello, Universe Erin Entrada Kelly, a professor of children’s literature at Rosemont College in Bryn Mawr, PA, won a Newbery Medal this year for her book about a shy boy who gets stuck in a well.

of

$2,500+ in Prizes!

MK’s annual 12 Days of Gifts giveaway is back and better than ever! We’re celebrating the holidays by giving away two prizes daily from Dec. 3-14.

Log on to MetroKids.com/12days to enter to win one of these prizes.

My Cousin Momo Narberth, PA illustrator and author Zachariah OHora’s book was the Pennsylvania One Book selection last summer. Young readers heard it read aloud at libraries across the state.

A Promise Stitched in Time Cherry Hill, NJ author and illustrator Colleen Rowan Kosinski published her debut novel this year about a girl who tries to find out what a vintage, possibly haunted, coat wants to tell her.

Knights Vs. Dinosaurs Ardmore, PA author, illustrator and graphic novelist Matt Phelan’s first chapter book is a heavily illustrated tale described as “Monty Python for young middle-school readers.”

$398

DynaCraft Disney Princess Carriage

Where is Robin? Philadelphia This charmingly illustrated tour of the city from a robin’s eye view is part of a series by author Robin Barone that includes kid guides to New York, LA, London, Paris and others.

Secret Philadelphia South Philly native Mary Dixon Lebeau explores dozens of lesser known, often oddly appealing landmarks in the city. Written for adults, it’s easily accessible for middle-school readers and a great resource for family trips.

P is for Philadelphia This 2018 reissue from Susan Korman of Yardley, PA, is an alphabetic tour of the city and region with 54 illustrations from local children. Entries include “C is for Cheese Steaks” and “V is for Valley Forge.”

A TRIO OF FIRST-TIMERS

Three writers who released their first children’s book this year: Haverford, PA’s Hallee Adelman’s My Quiet Ship about a boy who escapes the shouting.

Plymouth Meeting, PA native Jimmy Curran’s Will the One-Winged Eagle, which teaches kids about people with disabilities.

Philadelphia motivational speaker Niema Golphin’s Grey’s Treasure Box follows a boy’s search for something he had all along.

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$149.99 Dash Smart Robot

$99.99 K’Nex Bionic Blast Building Set Plus: American Girl Game Night Table, Ninja Turtles’ Turtle Tank Playset, Jurassic Park Bike, Epic Castle Playhouse and many more!

Log on to MetroKids.com/ 12days and enter to win. 12 Days winners must pick up their prizes by Dec. 21 at the MetroKids office near Broad & Pine Streets in Philadelphia, Mon.-Fri., during regular business hours.

DECEMBER 2018

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MetroKids.com 7

Books

POP Ups! Books that take the story to another dimension.

By Frank Lipsius Is it possible that adults buy pop-up books for themselves and use kids as an excuse? Certain subjects with an appeal to adults make it seem obvious.

There is no heinous crime in that, but as the genre matures and competes with other forms of literature and eye candy, the dual audiences come into sharper focus.

Yellow Submarine

By The Beatles, Illustrated by Heinz Edelmann Candlewick Press • $8.99 • K–12th grade Take The Beatles’ Yellow Submarine, a 50th-anniversary production that can only be aimed at those who have a history with The Beatles (who?), the song, the movie and Ringo (best known now as half of the surviving half ). This is less a pop up than a long railway train of a book, scene after scene, with some relief raising the page for the Blue Meanies, a Sgt. Pepper musician, and of course the submarine, with each of the Beatles profiled in relief on the other side. Now this is a pop up where the grandparents have a story to share about that group, the long hair, the breakthrough Sgt. Pepper concept album, and the few songs, like “Yellow Submarine,” (and “Octopus’s Garden”) entrusted to Ringo to sing.

Ten Horse Farm

By Robert Sabuda Candlewick Press • $29.99 Preschool–2nd grade The grand old man (however old he is) of pop-up books, Robert Sabuda, returns this season with Ten Horse Farm, a familiarly spectacular series of 10 farm scenes, each featuring a horse in one of its modes — racing, kicking, resting, pulling and grazing — culminating in nearly a foot-high horse jumping and another foot-high copse of trees for drinking. As usual, Sabuda defies gravity with the height of his creations but also reflects horses’ own defiance of gravity by balancing such bulk on such slim leg and foot supports. It is a perfect combination that takes Sabuda far from narration but close to the pure creation at which he excels.

Dinosaur Created by Dan Kainen, Written by Kathy Wollard Workman • $25.95 • No ages specified Dan Kainen has created a wrinkle on the pop-up book that moves not from lifting off the page but from a thin-ridged series of images that give the appearance of considerable

8 MetroKids.com

movement, like opening impressive jaws, and running, eating and playing or fighting. The hard cardboard books resist tampering, though a kid may well want to inspect what’s behind the moving image.

Kathy Wollard’s story starts with an introduction to the world the dinosaurs inhabited and their descendants that exist today, like birds and crocodiles. The story is short and comprehensive before the book turns to each kind of dinosaur that is depicted, including T. Rex and Sauroposeidon, a dinosaur discovered only in 1994 and deemed to be the tallest, if not the largest. The Sauroposeidon was 60 tons, and the largest elephants today would come up only to their knees.

The combination of sophisticated imagery and up-to-date information make the book highly suitable for students looking to go beyond classroom facts and fill out for themselves the picture of dinosaurs.

Hello New York!

Hello Paris!

By Christopher Francheschelli and Geraldine Cosneau Abrams Appleseed • $12.99 each • 2–4 years Opening with the binding on the short side, these distinctive guides use simple drawings and sophisticated information to give an overview of each of the cities that provide an idea of what to look for and what to find in the big city. The first image places the major buildings on a schematic map, followed by street scenes that bring the city down to personal size. There is enough information for a kid to be sure the family will not miss any major site.

Eye Spy

By Guillaume Duprat What On Earth Books • $21.99 • 6–12 years Now here is something unique. The author uses the simplest of forms, the flap, to explore what each animal sees based on its visual capabilities and physical attributes. Many animals see only in two colors, while human beings see in three.

This makes the difference between a Technicolor world and a drab view of one’s surroundings. Anyone who reads this book will understand more about what other creatures are capable of seeing and better appreciate the amazing capabilities of the human eye.

Frank Lipsius is a contributing writer to MetroKids.

See our ongoing kids’ book coverage at MetroKids.com/books.

DECEMBER 2018

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continued from p. 6

Holiday Family Festivities December 26, 28, 29 & 30 | 10 am – 4 pm December 27 | 10 am – 7 pm Bring your family to the Museum for festive art making and family-friendly celebration. Create a magical snow globe together in Kids’ Corner and find favorite works of art in the galleries. Free with Museum admission.

2301 Kentmere Parkway | Wilmington, Delaware 19806 302.571.9590 | delart.org

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610-323-2569 • Box Office

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Sales experience helpful but will train the right person.

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MetroKids.com 11

Health

Don’t Fear the Cheer 6 ways to trim holiday stress

By Michele Haddon The holiday season is supposed to be filled with hope, love and joy. But for many families, it can be marred by feelings of stress, anxiety and depression.

Before you hide under the covers until January, here are ways to handle holiday stress.

Let go of expectations

“Most of the stress and chaos of the holidays is due to this unrealistic expectation that things will be perfect.” says Sarah Robins, a clinical social worker in Wilmington, DE. “The reality is that no family is perfect and that all families have difficulties.”

Rather than think about what has gone wrong or what you can’t afford, focus instead on gratitude, compassion and giving back to the community, she suggests.

Set conflicts aside

Families that come together over the holidays can often bring unresolved issues to the surface, says Dr. Jacqueline Hudak, clinical director at the Center for Couples and Adult Families at the University of Pennsylvania in Philadelphia, who tells her clients to set aside those conflicts and focus on simply being together.

“You’re not going to sit around the dinner table and resolve your family’s issues, that’s not the time to do it,” she says. “Even if that means you keep the visit short or you go in the morning when there isn’t alcohol served.”

Have strategies in place

“It is rare that families will get together for an extended time and not have some arguments or con-

12 MetroKids.com

flict,” Robins says. “Plan how you want to manage the conflict.”

Talk with your partner about the topics that could lead to tension and work out some strategies together.

“Have a friend you can call. Step outside for some fresh air or go for a walk,” Hudak suggests.

For those struggling with addiction or other difficulties that could trigger conflict, Robins says to put your support network on notice.

“Reach out to your supports ahead of time — whether that be AA, NA, friends, co-workers, family members — and remind them how difficult the holidays are for you,” she says. “Notice when you start to struggle and need to ask for additional support.”

It’s OK to say ‘no’

Christine DiPilla, a mom of four in Doylestown PA, says she scaled back saying “yes” to everything.

“I gave myself permission to opt out of anything that feels more like an obligation than something that brings me joy. And I told myself that I don’t have to be at all the places and buy all the things for everyone,” DiPilla says. “Also, I’ve scaled back on gift giving for our four kids.

“Between us and their grandparents, they often got so much that they never really played with anything. We have been moving more towards experiences rather than things and instead get one ‘big’ family gift.”

Madeleine DiLeonardo D’Amato, a psychotherapist in Collingswood NJ, says you need to seek balance when there are so many demands for your time during December.

“Saying no to things is a great way to do that,” DiLeonardo D’Amato explains. “If you’re in a good place mentally and emotionally, you’ll be able to enjoy quality time with friends and family.”

Take breaks

With endless to-do lists, it’s easy to forget to slow down.

“Remind yourself that it is okay if everything does not get done,” says Robins. “This is an overwhelming time for everyone and the most important thing is that you take breaks when you need them.”

Schedule downtime, urges DiLeonardo D’Amato.

“We put all of the holiday parties into our calendars with no problem, but is there any space specifically blocked off for downtime?” she asks. “There should be. Block off this time, be intentional about rest and rejuvenation, and treat it with the same prioritization as other aspects of the holidays.”

Make time to grieve a loved one

If someone close to you died recently, the holidays can be extra difficult. Hudak says a ritual helped her deal with her loss.

“It was very hard for me not to have my parents on Christmas Eve when my kids were young and so I used to take time for myself that day and go to the cemetery and have that time of grief,” Hudak says.

Robins says to incorporate the loved one into the holiday celebration in some way.

“Talk about the loss, feel the sadness, experience the grief. Find ways to focus on positive memories of the loved one and remind yourself that it’s okay and normal to experience the sadness and grief.”

Michele Haddon is a Doylestown-based freelance writer.

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Meet Our CoverKid Four-year-old Anina F. of Aston, PA is this month’s CoverKid and her red coat makes her a particularly festive choice.

Her mother, Carla, says Anina is excited to decorate the house and bake holiday cookies, some of which she leaves out for Santa along with carrots for his reindeer.

She hopes it will convince Santa to leave behind a robo vacuum. She thinks it would be a great way to not only clean up after her dogs, Joey and Pixie, but maybe pick up her toys as well.

While excited about the holidays, Anina also enjoys the warmer months because she gets to go to the shore often to play in the sand and water.

But until then, she’ll enjoy her new cousin, Brielle, and spend time with her uncles, except her favorite, Uncle Charlie, who is a Marine stationed in Japan.

In January, she gets to celebrate not only her great-grandfather’s 98th birthday, but her own. That’s after Christmas, Anina likes to remind people, as anybody who has a birthday near the holidays will understand.

Thanks for being on our cover, Anina. And let us know how that toy-cleaning robo vacuum works.

We might want to get one of those next year.

Photo by Bev Michel Photography.

DECEMBER 2018

MetroKids.com 13

Education

Welcome to Cyber School Traditional schools embrace online courses

By Ann L. Rappoport No longer are cyber-charter or private cyber-academies the only online options for K-12 students. Traditional schools now offer more online and blended programs (classes that combine online and in-school sessions) as technology transforms education at all levels.

Online and blended courses help students who need to work at jobs where shifts overlap traditional school hours.

Alternative ed

Downingtown Area School District in Chester County, PA, began offering cyber options in 2011 and blended courses in 2014. “Students want to do this,” says Kristie Burk, coordinator of the district’s digital learning, and the district can’t ignore that demand. Last year, more than 1,200 high school students registered for Downingtown’s blended classes; 37 took all of their classes online. There are as many reasons as there are cyber students, she says. Here are some reasons:

The Douglass School is an alternative school in the Christina School District in Delaware whose primary goal is to support students as they prepare to return from Douglass to their geographic school, according to James Daniels, director of education. Douglass provides counseling and behavioral components in small, blended classrooms. Academic content, through online platforms, is individualized and targeted to fill gaps in the student’s path. Digital maps help students see where they are in their program and allow them to pace their education. They can, for example, fast track what they’ve missed in order to graduate on time. Daniels says students have told him, “If it wasn’t for this, I wouldn’t have graduated.”

Cyber options appeal to athletes, for example, who might need to miss 7th and 8th periods or elite athletes who travel, train or compete in other parts of the country.

Online courses also serve students with medical issues, from irritable bowel syndrome to Lyme disease or depression.

Students in Downingtown’s allied-health internship program, which takes students off campus during first and second periods, can schedule courses online that they’d otherwise miss.

Cyber options flip how in-class and homework time are used, says Washington Township (Sewell, NJ) Schools’ Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction, Jack McGee, and Director of Secondary Education and Institutional Technology, Steve Gregor, EdD. Cyber lessons provide introductory and background material to students at home, at the doctor’s office, or anywhere; students can then replay them as needed to fully grasp the material.

Student-driven desire

Flexibility

14 MetroKids.com

Flipped approach

Cyber lessons flip the role of the teacher as lecturer. Group sessions can be used for deeper investigation, problem solving and applications, explains Wendy Morales, digital media arts and technology supervisor for Middletown Township Public Schools in Leonardo, NJ. Teachers facilitate online conversations, connections among classrooms and interviews with experts in the field. They can interact with students online, as well as in school.

An example of a flipped approach comes from McGee and Gregor. For homework, students might view a video on the conditions of the North and South prior to the Civil War. Then class time is used to apply that information in small groups and strategize economic, political and military objectives. The teacher helps guide the process and works with the class to analyze how their projections compare with what actually occurred.

The result is greater participation by all the students (rather than domination of class time by a few) as well as individual student ownership of learning, and greater achievement and retention.

Personalized education

Many districts, such as Middletown and Washington townships, provide students in grades 3–12 with digital devices. With information at their fingertips 24/7, students can explore artistic or engineering aspects of the material that excite them, says Morales. Infused with this access and Middletown’s allocation of time for students to pursue their individual interests (the so-called Genius Hour), non-traditional learners can shine, she says.

In this rich electronic environment, instruction meets the student at his own level, says McGee. Being able to pace one’s own lessons over the span of a week reduces pressure while building a student’s time-management skills.

Struggling students who might “not get” the traditional lecture have online options for multiple approaches as well as access to district teachers. Students say they feel less stressed.

Digital devices also help bridge the digital divide and allow staff to track students’ progress, including AP scores, and the greater participation from traditionally underrepresented voices. continued on p. 17

DECEMBER 2018

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MetroKids.com 15

SpecialKids

Charter Schools and LD Students All provide special-needs services, but approaches vary

By Terri Akman If your child has a learning difference, a charter school, like a traditional public school, is required to offer special-education services. However, each charter school also has its own learning methods and specialties, which might make it an ideal choice.

“Charter schools have the exact same rules as any public school district and are not allowed to ask for information around special-education status prior to admission,” says Harry Lee, interim president at the NJ Charter School Association.

In New Jersey, students apply through a lottery system and only after a student is enrolled does the family share the child’s special-education status.

The same is true in 21 of Delaware’s 23 charter schools. The Gateway Lab School and Positive Outcomes schools are geared toward and give preference to children with learning differences. Some of Pennsylvania’s 87 charter schools use a lottery; others are first come, first served.

After admission, staff reviews the student’s Special Education Evaluation Report and Individualized Education Program (IEP), says Rae Oglesby, deputy chief of communications of the 24 Mastery charter schools in Philadelphia and Camden, NJ, which serve about 14,000 K-12 students. “We partner with parents to review the child’s academic and social, emotional functioning, IEP goals and special education services in order to ensure a smooth transition into our schools.”

Pick the best educational model

Every charter school has its own learning model, from Montessori — which includes multi-aged classrooms — to language-immersion programs, and schools that specialize in art or science.

Beyond the individual school’s focus, it’s also important to recognize how your child learns best. For example, some students with learning differences find success when they are blended with the overall population, while others are more

16 MetroKids.com

comfortable in specialized one-on-one or small-group education.

Mastery schools, for example, include students with disabilities in the overall population to the greatest extent possible, says Oglesby.

“Parents should ask questions about the method because not every school is right for every child,” says Kendall Massett, executive director of Delaware Charter Schools Network.

Questions to Ask • Does the school’s teaching philosophy match how your child learns?

• On a school visit, does it seem like an environment where your child will succeed?

If your child likes to be around a lot of people, a larger school may be a better fit.

• Are there other students who have the same kind of learning differences as your child?

• How well does your child adapt to change?

If a move to a new building might be difficult, choose a school that can serve him from Kindergarten through 8th grade, or 6th through 12th grade.

• Find out who is responsible for services to students with special needs and who leads the evaluation process. Sometimes that’s the school, but not always. Regardless, the financial responsibility falls to the school, not the family.

• What is the school’s track record?

• How does the school handle behavior issues?

Choose ‘to’ not ‘from’

Be careful not to choose a new school because you were unhappy with something your child’s old school did.

“Choice should be running to something,” Massett says. “When you’re running away from something you’re looking for ‘anything but.’

“You should say, ‘This is good for my child because of ‘X’ and that’s with every child, learning differences or not.”

Follow the (IEP) plan

Once parents find the best school for their child, the school will review the student’s IEP to create the most successful path.

“Each student’s plan is designed to meet his individual needs, so if a student’s needs become increasingly complex, we may use supports outside of the general classroom.

IEP implementation looks different for each student,” she says.

Your child’s IEP specifies the services

she is entitled to, “but if you want a whole bunch more that the IEP doesn’t think is necessary, you aren’t going to get it for free,” says Massett. “You can pay for that on your own, but the services listed in your IEP would be free as part of your public education.”

Terri Akman is a contributing writer to MetroKids.

DECEMBER 2018

Education

continued from p. 14

Disadvantages

An obvious disadvantage of cyber-dependent education, says Gregor, is that “Machines break down. They need maintenance; you have to charge them.” He notes that a similar argument was heard in the 16th century over the use of the pencil. With time and experience, these issues are overcome, he says.

“With freedom and flexibility comes responsibility,” says Burk.

Some students struggle with the independence associated with online coursework and are easily distracted. But, she says, interventions with teachers, physically and virtually, are available and the improved time-management skills will serve students in the future.

Cost to the district might be seen as a disadvantage, but the schools with devices for all students say the advantages far outweigh that disadvantage.

Finally, contrary to a popular misconception, digital courses are actually more work for teachers than the traditional approaches, McGee says. In addition to professional development, they must familiarize themselves with online sites and curate content; create digital lesson materials, including links to relevant resources; facilitate investigations and applications; monitor online discussions, and communicate with students online and in class.

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New Jersey requires 2.5 credits in financial literacy for graduation that, in Washington Township schools, is often met digitally.

Downingtown requires students to take at least one blended or cyber course to graduate.

Morales acknowledges that some parents are uncomfortable with cyber learning, because they didn’t learn that way, or it doesn’t fit their stereotype of what school should look like.

But as McGee notes, “The goal is to prepare them for their future, not for our past.”

Ann L. Rappoport, PhD, is a contributing writer to MetroKids.

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DECEMBER 2018

MetroKids.com 17

Toy Test 2018 We asked families to try some of the season’s most popular playthings and share their thoughts. For full reviews, including takes from the kids themselves, visit MetroKids.com/toytest2018.

LITTLE KIDS Doc McStuffins Pet Rescue Mobile Just Play; 3+; $49.95

The gist: This portable playset themed to the popular Disney Junior show comes equipped with music, phrases, lights, Doc’s pal Oliver and pretend medical tools and accessories.

Testers: Gracie H. (3) and mom Jennifer; Lincoln Univ., PA Toy appeal: 10 Educational value: 9. “This is great for teaching compassion and encouraging my daughter to use her imagination. She takes care of the animals’ boo-boos and gives them treats.”

Functionality: 9 Durability: 10 Jennifer’s verdict: “Setup was easy — I love that no assembly is required — and Gracie was ready to play as soon as we got the toy out of the box. The only drawback is that batteries weren’t included.”

Go-with-Me ABC Backpack Leapfrog; 3+; $29.99

The gist: Using the write-and-erase board, tots can try letter writing and drawing during seven on-screen activities led by Mr. Pencil.

Testers: Kira S. (6) and dad Joshua; Fairless Hills, PA Toy appeal: 9 Educational value: 9. “Even older kids can learn something from this backpack.

Kira practiced writing and sounding out and spelling words.”

Functionality: 8 Durability: 9 Joshua’s verdict: “This toy is educational, enjoyable and easy to figure out. It holds my child’s attention for a decent amount of time, too.”

18 MetroKids.com

Starshine the Bright Lights Unicorn VTech; 1+; $22.99

The gist: Place the charms provided on the unicorn’s “magic” hearts to watch it light up and teach colors, objects and phrases in English and Spanish Testers: Kateryna K. (1) and mom Melissa; Philly Toy appeal: 8 Educational value: 8. “I especially appreciate the Spanish mode and being able to introduce my 1-year-old to a foreign language in a playful yet educational manner.”

Functionality: 7 Durability: 8 Melissa’s verdict: “I try to give my children toys that promote learning while still providing fun, and Starshine hits the spot. This toy is a welcome addition to the rotation of toys taking up space in our living room.”

OLDER KIDS Aura Stealth Drone KD Interactive; 6+; $79.99

The gist: This toy drone ditches the joystick in favor of gesture-controlled movement.

The drone moves in all directions and even performs tricks, all dictated by the motion of your hand.

Testers: Garrett B. (9), friend Gavin L. (9) & mom Natalie; Garnet Valley, PA Toy appeal: 9 Educational value: 8 Functionality: 8 Durability: 10. “The drone has a built-in safety cage that prevents it from breaking, as well as a sensor that prevents it from bumping into things.

Although the top of the wristband is bulky, the Velcro it uses to attach to the user’s wrist is durable.”

Natalie’s verdict: “We’ve had many drones and this has been the easiest one for the kids to understand and manipulate. This is truly for children; I don’t have to assemble it myself using complicated directions. The flight is smooth, too, and we don’t have to worry about it breaking.”

DECEMBER 2018

Creative Café Barista Bar RoseArt; 6+; $29.99

The gist: Budding baristas make frothy, milk-based chocolate or strawberry drinks using this heat-free steamer, complete with stencils for “latte” art.

Testers: Lottie L. (7) and mom Lorin; Phoenixville, PA Toy appeal: 10 Educational value: 4 Functionality: 8. “I recommend setting up the toy before you bring the kids in to play.

The drinks are yummy and the powder smells good. We initially had trouble using the stencils, but it just takes practice.”

Durability: 8 Lorin’s verdict: “My daughter loved to play with the shaker bottles and shake the powder into the cups. She also enjoyed adding sprinkles and getting creative with her drinks.”

Disney’s The Incredibles Save the Day Board Game Wonder Forge; 6+; $19.99

The gist: Team up to defeat villains and save a city; each player has a unique power, so strategizing who will take on which challenge is key.

Testers: Ryan T. (12), Aiden (9) and mom Stephanie; Newark, DE Toy appeal: 8 Educational value: 8. “The game teaches turntaking, planning and cooperative problem-solving. My kids quickly realized that each person could tackle different tasks to help our team succeed.”

Functionality: 7 Durability: 7 Stephanie’s verdict: “The cooperative play is great, especially for families with young children. On each turn there is the opportunity to discuss the best choice to make to help your team. The best choice changes with each turn and player, so things stay fresh from turn to turn. We played three times in a row and the outcome was different with each game.”

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Kidi Secrets Selfie Journal VTech; 6+; $49.99

The gist: Facial-recognition software unlocks this journal that lets users take photos and videos, record messages, play learning games and listen to music.

Testers: Madison B. (6) and mom Michelle; Havertown, PA Toy appeal: 9 Educational value: 7 Functionality: 8 Durability: 9. “The product is made of hard plastic, which is durable; Madison’s dropped it a few times with no damage to the toy.”

Michelle’s verdict: “The journal is suited for one kid to play with at a time, so as an only child, my daughter likes that feature. She can play with it if she doesn’t have friends over, and she’s chosen it over other toys since she got it.”

DECEMBER 2018

PRESENTED BY

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MetroKids.com 19

Family FamilyFun Fun

Sights of the Season Halls are decked. Wish lists are ready. The “most wonderful time of the year” is here, and with it comes displays and light shows so extravagant that even Scrooge would be impressed. Visit MetroKids.com/holiday for even more festivities, from meals with Santa to shopping to community celebrations.

PHILADELPHIA

BUCKS COUNTY

CHESTER COUNTY

Comcast Center

Peddler’s Village, Lahaska

Longwood Gardens, Kennett Sq.

The Comcast Holiday Spectacular, shown in the lobby at the top of each hour, syncs carols with festive imagery and snippets of the Pennsylvania Ballet’s performance of The Nutcracker. Through Jan. 1.

Franklin Square

The Electrical Spectacle Light Show features 75,000 lights set to a soundtrack of popular songs and, hovering above the square’s centerpiece fountain, a 12-foottall kite that recalls Ben Franklin’s famous kite-and-lightning experiment. Take in the sights during one of many seasonal events here. Through Dec.

Macy’s Center City

Take a break from shopping to watch the Christmas Light Show in the Grand Court. Twinkling with thousands of LED lights, dancing snowflakes, ballerinas and reindeer, the spectacle is accompanied by music from the famed Wanamaker organ.

Through Dec.

Morris Arboretum

The Holiday Garden Railway is a mini winter wonderland complete with a quarter-mile of model-train track, loops, tunnels, bridges, 15 rail lines and trains that circle scaled replicas of local landmarks and monuments laden with lights. Through Dec.

The Gingerbread Competition is a family-favorite. This appetizing mix of confectionary creations serves up themes that range from traditional to 3D to kids only. All crafted by local folks, the display is surrounded by 1 million lights strung throughout the village. Through Jan. 5.

Floating lights, fire pits and colorful fountain shows set to music make up the outdoor scenery at A Longwood Christmas. The heated, indoor observatory appeals to the senses with ornately decorated trees and thousands of fragrant flowers. Through Jan. 6.

Shady Brook Farm, Yardley

The drive-through Holiday Light Show pairs whimsical displays with familiar characters, rendered in millions of lights.

Follow the route in your car or hop on an open-air wagon ride. Round out the experience with a bonfire and hot cocoa.

Through Jan. 6.

Sesame Place, Langhorne

Sesame Street characters star in the 1-2-3 Christmas Tree show, the centerpiece of which is a 30-foot, illuminated tree that projects animated images synced to kidapproved tunes. Little ones can also greet the gang during parades, visits with Santa and train rides through the Gingerbread Cookie Factory. Through Jan. 1.

DELAWARE COUNTY Arasapha Farm, Glen Mills

The Holiday Hayride rolls by larger-thanlife light displays, decorated trees and buildings, brooks and bridges. Additional fun includes photos with Santa, a bonfire and cut-your-own Christmas trees.

Through Dec. 23.

Rose Tree Park, Media

Stroll through the Festival of Lights, where you’ll find dozens of decoratively lit trees, cheery displays, illuminated walkways and kid-favorite figures such as Charlie Brown and the Peanuts crew and Santa and his reindeer. Through Dec.

MONTGOMERY COUNTY Elmwood Park Zoo, Norristown

Follow the tree-lined path to explore the Wild Lights display, outfitted with animated light installations, laser lights, music and themed stops such as Candy Cane Lane, Disco Ball Way and Santa’s workshop. Adventurous guests can embark on a zip-line course that interacts with select installations. Through Dec.

20 MetroKids.com

DECEMBER 2018

Family Fun

WORTH THE DRIVE Dutch Wonderland, Lancaster

This theme park may be geared toward little ones, but the Royal Light Show is a big draw. Kids also enjoy more than 20 themed rides and Santa sightings on select dates as part of Dutch Winter Wonderland.

Through Dec. 30.

Hersheypark, Hershey

The drive-through Sweet Lights experience is packed with 600 whimsical yet intricate displays that pay homage to holiday carols, characters and fairy tales. Tune into the accompanying radio station to enjoy the festive soundtrack. Inside the park, Christmas Candylane activities also include meet-and-greets with St. Nick and themed rides. Through Jan. 1.

Koziar’s Christmas Village, Bernville The quaint, North Pole-reminiscent village has plenty to see and explore. Visit Santa’s Post Office and the Old-Fashioned Bakery, watch model trains and view indoor & outdoor displays featuring a half-million lights. Through Jan. 1.

Home for the Holidays: Residential Light Displays Anyone who’s taken a driving tour of their neighborhood’s decorations knows that, year after year, there are always houses — even entire blocks — that bring holiday cheer to a whole new level. These spectacular displays are a must-see, even for those who don’t live in the area.

PHILADELPHIA

CHESTER COUNTY

Mayfair 3500 Oakmont St.

West Chester 304 Dutton Mill Rd.

South Philly 1600 block of S. 13th St. 2700 block of Smedley St.

MONTGOMERY COUNTY

Tacony 4200 block of Greeby St.

Ambler 1320 Butler Pike

BUCKS COUNTY

Collegeville 15 Glen Farms Rd. 78 Level Rd.

Levittown 1 White Spruce Ln.

Erdenheim 5 Whitemarsh Ave.

Langhorne 155 Colonial Dr.

Willow Grove Terwood Ave. & Brendan Circle

Log on to MetroKids.com/familyfun for more information, including address, phone number, time & website.

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GROWING A FEW SIZES, TOO.” The Associated Press

DECEMBER 19-29 KIMMELCENTER.ORG BROADWAY PHILADELPHIA is presented collaboratively by the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts and the Shubert Organization.

DECEMBER 2018

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MetroKids.com 21

Family Fun

Join the parade during the Christmas Festival at Lahaska's Peddlers Village, Dec. 1 & 2.

DAY-BY-DAY CALENDAR Special needs event Santa's Paradise Express

Dec. 1- 22

Children's Christmas Party

5 Wednesday

Seasonal event

$ = $1-$5; $$ = $6-$10; $$$ = $11-$19; $$$$ = $20 & up

1 Saturday

Bank of America Museums on Us, Phila. Bank of America and Merrill Lynch cardholders are granted no-cost access to participating venues, including the African American Museum in Philadelphia, Museum of the American Revolution, the National Constitution Center and the National Museum of American Jewish History. FREE

Holiday Cookies Family Workshop at the Wayne Art Center, Wayne. $$$$

The Cat's Pajamas performs at World Cafe Live, Phila. $$

Holiday Garden Railway Night at Morris Arboretum, Phila. Marvel at the model-train track featuring mini versions of historic buildings and thousands of lights. $$$

Christmas Tree Train on the Strasburg Rail Road, Ronks. Journey to Leaman Place Grove to select a fresh-cut tree to bring home. $$$$

Deck the Alley at Elfreth’s Alley, Phila. The country’s oldest street features seasonal decorations, meet-and-greets with Santa and live music. $$$$

Dec. 15 & 22

22 MetroKids.com

Gingerbread House Decorating Workshop at the Market at DelVal, Doylestown. $$$$

Breakfast with Santa at Kitchen Kettle Village, Intercourse. $$$$

Christmas Festival at Peddler's Village, Lahaska. Watch a parade led by Santa and vote for your favorite in the gingerbread-house competition. FREE

Children's Holiday Tea

Family Holiday Celebration at the Wildwoods Convention Center, Wildwood, NJ. A seasonal bazaar, live entertainment, movie screenings and selfies with Santa are all part of the fun. FREE

Holiday Bricktacular at LEGOLAND Discovery Center, Plymouth Meeting. Enjoy themed building activities, a scavenger hunt, ornament making and appearances by LEGO Santa. $$$$

Japanese New Year: Celebrate Oshogatsu at Shofuso Japanese House and Garden, Phila.

Ring in the holiday early with a tea ceremony, games and floral displays. $$$ Lila Liberty's Hero Quest at the National Liberty Museum, Phila. Join the character for a tour of the galleries. $$$ Lucia Fest and Christmas Market at the American Swedish Historical Museum, Phila.

Enjoy Swedish Christmas songs, dance and crafts, culminating with the procession of Lucia. $$$ Nature Exploration for Families at the Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, Phila. FREE

DECEMBER 2018

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’TIS THE SEASON FOR HOLIDAY MAGIC Kids of all ages will delight in our 18-room dollhouse mansion, a dream house fully decorated for the holidays!

On view November 17–January 6 Included with admission to Yuletide at Winterthur.

Members free.

Winterthur Museum, Garden & Library • Tickets at 800.448.3883 or winterthur.org/yuletide.

DECEMBER 2018

MetroKids.com 23

FAB FREEBIE

Downtown Narberth transforms into 1840s London Dec. 2 for the Dickens Festival. Scrooge and the cast of characters from A Christmas Carol roam the streets while families enjoy carriage rides, carolers, crafts, period vendors and entertainment, puppet and magic shows, ice sculptures and a scavenger hunt.

Old Time Christmas at Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm, Stroudsburg. Journey back to the 1800s with a Victorian skit focused on meal prep, a live nativity with barn animals, caroling, storytelling and an appearance by Belschnikel, the traditional Christmas character. $$

Old Time Christmas at Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm, Stroudsburg. See Dec. 1. $$

Promenade of Trees on Main Street, Phila. Head to the Manayunk neighborhood’s most bustling street to vote for your favorite decorated tree and take a guided tour of the display. FREE

Read and Romp: Nine Little Jellybeans Learn to Get Along at the National Liberty Museum, Phila. Activities include storytime, games and crafts. $$$

Santa’s Arrival at Suburban Square, Ardmore. FREE

Pet Photo Night at the Oxford Valley Mall, Langhorne. $$$$

3 Monday

4 Tuesday

Santa’s Express on the West Chester Railroad, West Chester.

The Big Guy accompanies families on this round-trip ride to Glen Mills. Runs Sat. & Sun. through Dec. 23. $$$$

Reindeer Romp at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. Learn about reindeer and other animals of the far north via games, tales and crafts. $

Santa's Paradise Express on the Strasburg Rail Road, Ronks.

Kids meet St. Nick, listen to holiday stories and receive a gift. Runs select dates through Dec. 22. $$$

Winterfest at Sellersville Theater 1894, Sellersville. Festivities include seasonal snacks, live music and screenings of How the Grinch Stole Christmas and Charlie Brown Christmas. FREE

Sounds of the Season at the Fairmount Park Charms, Phila.

The historic homes host performances by some of the area’s best jazz, classical, gospel and Latin musicians. $$$$ Winter Wonderland Tour at Fonthill Castle, Doylestown.

Check out the museum’s holiday decorations through Dec. 31. $$$ Wreath-Making Workshop at the Valley Green Inn, Phila. $$$$

2 Sunday

Bank of America Museums on Us, Phila. See Dec. 1. FREE

5 Wednesday

Children’s Christmas Party at the Brandywine River Museum of Art, Chadds Ford. Visit Santa, Mrs. Claus and a crew of costumed characters, get your face painted, check out model trains and explore “Cookie Land.” $$$ The Night Before Christmas Train on the Strasburg Rail Road, Ronks. Kids are treated to milk and cookies and storytime. Runs Thurs. & Fri. through Dec. 21. $$$

Candy Cane Hunt with the Sugarplum Fairy at One Liberty Observation Deck, Phila. $$

A Philly Pops Christmas: Sensory-friendly Performance at Verizon Hall, Phila. Accommodations include lowered house lights, adjusted sound and a designated quiet space. $$$$

Children's Christmas Party at the Ebenezer Maxwell Mansion, Phila. Decorate cookies, listen to festive stories and watch a performance of The Life and Adventures of Santa Claus. $$$

Q102’s Jingle Ball at the Wells Fargo Center, Phila. Shawn Mendes, Calvin Harris, 5 Seconds of Summer and others are set to take the stage. $$$$

Christmas Festival at Peddler's Village, Lahaska. See Dec 1.

FREE

Stag and Doe Night in the Chestnut Hill neighborhood, Phila.

Stop by shops on Germantown Avenue to enjoy extended hours, carolers and Santa sightings. FREE

Christmas Tree Decorating for Wildlife at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. Help decorate an evergreen tree with edible ornaments. $ Dickens Festival in downtown Narberth. See “Fab Freebie,” above. FREE Festive Fashion Family Festival at the Philadelphia Museum of Art, Phila. Play dress-up and make a wearable cape. Pay what you wish Family Arts Academy: Draw, Transfer, Repeat at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Make large-scale artworks using techniques such as drawing, color transfers and repetition.

FREE Family Day at Lemon Hill Mansion, Phila. The historic home hosts live entertainment and kids’ activities. $$$$ Holiday Bricktacular at LEGOLAND Discovery Center, Plymouth Meeting. See Dec. 1. $$$$

24 MetroKids.com

7 Friday

Hanukkah Celebration at Franklin Square, Phila. Celebrate with dreidel games, latkes and crafts. FREE Holiday Garden Railway Night at Morris Arboretum, Phila.

See Dec. 1. $$$

8 Saturday

Breakfast with Santa at Kitchen Kettle Village, Intercourse. $$$$ Brunch with the Big Guy at the Market at DelVal, Doylestown. $$$ Breakfast with Santa at the Philadelphia Zoo, Phila. $$$$ Breakfast with the Trains at the Brandywine River Museum of Art, Chadds Ford. In addition to the meal, families go on a behindthe-scenes tour of the venue’s railroad, meet its engineers and partake in locomotive-themed activities. $$$$

DECEMBER 2018

Family Fun Community Craft and Art Fair at the Asian Arts Initiative, Phila. FREE

Holiday Bricktacular at LEGOLAND Discovery Center, Plymouth Meeting. See Dec. 1. $$$$

German-American Weekend at Christmas Village, Phila. Festivities include authentic German food, music and dance. FREE

Natural Ornaments Workshop at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. Bring a glue gun, glue sticks and a box with which to bring your creation home. $

Gingerbread House-Decorating Workshop at the Wayne Art Center, Wayne. $$$$ Holiday Bricktacular at LEGOLAND Discovery Center, Plymouth Meeting. See Dec. 1. $$$$ Holiday Garden Railway Night at the Morris Arboretum, Phila. See Dec. 1. $$$ Holiday Luminaria at the Schuylkill Canal Park, Mont Clare. Enter the decorated Locktender’s house to enjoy live music, treats and a light display. $ Old Time Christmas at Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm, Stroudsburg. See Dec. 1. $$ Parade of Lights at the Independence Seaport Museum, Phila. A procession of decorated boats illuminates the Delaware River, viewable from the second floor. Arrive early to meet Santa and decorate gingerbread boats. $$$ PNC Grow Up Great at the Kimmel Center for the Performing Arts, Phila. Kids are introduced to jazz and musical theatre. FREE SantaFest at the American Helicopter Museum, West Chester. St. Nick arrives via helicopter for ornament making, live music, face painting and treats. $$ Think Like an App Designer at EY Intuitive, Phila. Run by TechGirlz. FREE

Old Time Christmas at Quiet Valley Living Historical Farm, Stroudsburg. See Dec. 1. $$ Sundays on Stage: Eda Ne Kakati (From the Past to the Present) at the Parkway Central Library, Phila. Enjoy a performance by Ugandan dancer, drummer and reggae artist Ssuuna. FREE

11 Tuesday

Holiday Open House at the Mercer Museum, Doylestown. Expect live music, “burning of the greens” and a visit with St. Nick. FREE

12 Wednesday

Holiday Carol Sing and Food Basket Giveaway at the Johnson House Historic Site, Phila.

Join community members for a sing-along stroll down Germantown Avenue. FREE Stag and Doe Night in the Chestnut Hill neighborhood, Phila. See Dec. 5. FREE

13 Thursday

Chestnut Hill Community Holiday Parade on Germantown Avenue, Phila. FREE Share a Night Fundraiser at the Ronald McDonald House of Delaware, Wilmington, DE. The famous clown is on-site to light the house for the season. For each $15 donation, a light is added to the display. FREE

Victorian Christmas Open House at Pennypacker Mills, Schwenksville. Meet Santa, listen to a bell choir, watch a clear toy candy demo and tour the decorated mansion. $

Ugly Sweater Party at One Liberty Observation Deck, Phila. See “Parents’ Night Out,” p. 26. $$$$

Winter Solstice Celebration at the Penn Museum, Phila. Mark the longest night of the year early with art activities, storytelling, a winter market, workshops and tours. $$$

Holiday Garden Railway Night at Morris Arboretum, Phila. See Dec. 1. $$$

9 Sunday

Breakfast with Santa at the Philadelphia Zoo, Phila. $$$$ Candlelight Tour at Pottsgrove Manor, Pottstown. Historical interpreters highlight Twelfth Night and Boxing Day traditions via 18th-century games, music, demos and food sampling. $ Family Arts Academy: Dance to Draw at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila.

After a performance by the Academy of International Ballet, learn the techniques of improvisational drawing. FREE Flavors of the Season at the Fairmount Park Charms, Phila. Participating houses serve up samples and cooking demos of favorite holiday fare. $$$$

DECEMBER 2018

Town & County: New Year’s Eve

14 Friday

Live Nativity at St. Matthew’s United Methodist Church, Wayne. FREE

15 Saturday

Bill of Rights Day at the National Constitution Center, Phila. Commemorate the document’s anniversary by viewing an original copy, playing a game show and touring Signer’s Hall. $$$ Breakfast with Santa at Kitchen Kettle Village, Intercourse. $$$$

Close out 2018 with festivities for the whole family.

BUCKS COUNTY Party with Elmo, Abby Cadabby and Cookie Monster at Sesame Place’s New Year’s Eve Fireworks celebration in Langhorne, complete with a parade prior to the pyrotechnics.

CHESTER COUNTY Revel in New Year’s Eve at Kennett Square’s Longwood Gardens. The bucolic setting plays host to strolling carolers, the famous organ and open-air fountain shows synced to festive tunes.

PHILADELPHIA If the kids can’t hang till midnight, bring them to Countdown 2 Noon at the Please Touch Museum, featuring live music, a countdown and ball drop.

Or head to Franklin Square’s Kids’ New Year’s Eve Countdown to enjoy crafts, a dance party and the main-event “Square Drop.”

As the clock ticks closer to the final hours of 2018, don’t miss the New Year’s Eve Fireworks on the Delaware River waterfront at 6pm and midnight, viewable from Blue Cross RiverRink, the Independence Seaport Museum, SugarHouse Casino and other nearby spots.

Breakfast with Santa at the Philadelphia Zoo, Phila. $$$$ Breakfast with the Trains at the Brandywine River Museum of Art, Chadds See Dec. 8. $$$$ Children’s Holiday Tea at the Radnor Hotel, St. Davids. Join the Toy Soldier and Holiday Fairy for a meal, stories and card making. Each child receives a gift. $$$$

MetroKids.com 25

PARENTS’ NIGHT OUT

Clip-on ornaments. Tacky patterns. Sequins — lots of them. Wear your most hideous holiday getup to the adults-only Ugly Sweater Party, Dec. 13 at Philly’s One Liberty Observation Deck. The 57th-floor bash features pay-as-you-go cocktails, light fare and panoramic views of the skyline. Cheers!

Holiday Bricktacular at LEGOLAND Discovery Center, Plymouth Meeting. See Dec. 1. $$$$ Winter Holiday Crafternoon at the Mercer Museum, Doylestown. Create a paper-bag snowman, Santa or reindeer; a menorah; or beaded candy cane and snowflake ornaments. $$$

16 Sunday

Breakfast with Santa at the Philadelphia Zoo, Phila. $$$$ Family Arts Academy: Lights, Wrapping, Assemble at the Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts, Phila. Make illuminated orbs. FREE Holiday Bricktacular at LEGOLAND Discovery Center, Plymouth Meeting. See Dec. 1. $$$$ Holiday Dumpling-Making Party at the Asian Arts initiative, Phila. $$$$

17 Monday

It’s a Wonderful Life Movie Screening at the Sellersville Theater 1894, Sellersville. FREE

18 Tuesday

It’s a Wonderful Life Movie Screening at the Sellersville Theater 1894, Sellersville. FREE Toddler Time: A Very Swedish Christmas at the American Swedish Historical Museum, Phila. Little ones listen to a themed story and dance to seasonal music. $

19 Wednesday

Children's Nature Series: Winter Solstice at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. Learn about the solstice and cultural traditions that surround it, then make a craft. $

20 Thursday

Audubon Bird Town Bird Walk at Lorimer Park, Huntingdon Valley. FREE

21 Friday

Breakfast with Santa at the Philadelphia Zoo, Phila. $$$$ Children’s Holiday Tea at the Radnor Hotel, St. Davids. See Dec. 15. $$$$ Full Moon Hike at Norristown Farm Park, E. Norriton. FREE Holiday Bricktacular at LEGOLAND Discovery Center, Plymouth Meeting. See Dec. 1. $$$$ Holiday Garden Railway Night at Morris Arboretum, Phila.

See Dec. 1. $$$ How the Grinch Stole Christmas: Sensory-friendly Performance at the Merriam Theater, Phila. Accommodations include lowered house lights, adjusted sound and a designated quiet space. $$$$

23 Sunday

Breakfast with Santa at the Philadelphia Zoo, Phila. $$$$ Holiday Bricktacular at LEGOLAND Discovery Center, Plymouth Meeting. See Dec. 1. $$$$

25 Tuesday

Being ___ at Christmas at the National Museum of American Jewish History, Phila. This celebration features games, crafts, storytelling, face painting and movie screenings. $$$ Christmas Day Crossing Reenactment at Washington Crossing State Park, Washington Crossing. Watch historical interpreters reenact the famous crossing of the Delaware River to Trenton, NJ. FREE

26 Wednesday

Winter Break Camp at the Schuylkill Center for Environmental Education, Phila. Kids explore the forest, track animals, make outdoor shelters and experiment with snow and ice. $$$$ Winter Break Programming at the National Constitution Center, Phila. Activities centered on Alexander Hamilton include an interactive show, trivia games, crafts and colonial dress-up. Through Dec. 31. $$$

27 Thursday

The Nutcracker: Sensory-friendly Performance at the Academy of Music, Phila. Accommodations for this Pennsylvania Ballet production include lowered house lights, adjusted sound and a designated quiet space. $$$$ School’s Out Day Camp at the Wayne Art Center, Wayne. Kids fill their day with arts & crafts, clay projects or drama. $$$$ Xtreme Science Day at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila.

Explore the science behind climate change, evolution and other hot topics, then partake in experiments and watch presentations. $$$

28 Friday

Kwanzaa Celebration at Franklin Square, Phila. FREE

Frozen Night at Franklin Square, Phila. Join Elsa and Anna for activities and sing-alongs. FREE

School’s Out Day Camp at the Wayne Art Center, Wayne. See Dec. 27. $$$$

Holiday Garden Railway Night at Morris Arboretum, Phila.

See Dec. 1. $$$

Xtreme Science Day at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila.

See Dec. 27. $$$

22 Saturday

Breakfast with Santa at Kitchen Kettle Village, Intercourse. $$$$

26 MetroKids.com

29 Saturday

Holiday Bricktacular at LEGOLAND Discovery Center, Plymouth Meeting. See Dec. 1. $$$$

DECEMBER 2018

Family Fun Xtreme Science Day at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila.

See Dec. 27. $$$

30 Sunday

Holiday Bricktacular at LEGOLAND Discovery Center, Plymouth Meeting. See Dec. 1. $$$$ Xtreme Science Day at the Academy of Natural Sciences, Phila.

See Dec. 27. $$$

31 Monday

Countdown 2 Noon at the Please Touch Museum, Phila. See “Town & County,” p. 25. $$$

Kids’ New Year’s Eve Countdown at Franklin Square, Phila. See “Town & County,” p. 25. FREE New Year’s Eve at Longwood Gardens, Kennett Square. See “Town & County,” p. 25. $$$$ New Year’s Eve Fireworks on the Delaware River, Phila. See “Town & County,” p. 25. FREE New Year's Eve Fireworks at Sesame Place, Langhorne. See “Town & County,” p. 25. $$$$ Log on to MetroKids.com/familyfun for more information, including address, phone number, time & website.

PERFORMANCES CHRISTMAS CAROLS

HOLIDAY SHOWS

Charles Dickens’ A Christmas Carol at the Hedgerow Theatre, Rose Valley. Through Dec. 24. $$$$

The Elves and the Shoemaker at the Mercer Museum, Doylestown.

Dec. 1. $$$ A Philly Pops Christmas at Verizon Hall, Phila. Dec. 1-22. $$$$ Rosie the Reindeer and the Case of the Stolen Snow Globe at the Act II Playhouse, Ambler. Dec. 2-28. $$$

A Christmas Carol at the Walnut Street Theatre, Phila.

Dec. 1-23. $$$$ A Christmas Carol at Byers Choice Ltd., Chalfont. Performed

by Dickens’ descendent Gerald Dickens. Dec. 8. $$$$ NUTCRACKERS

The Snow Queen at the Harold Prince Theatre, Phila. Dec. 8 & 9. $$$$ Adventures in Toyland at the Gratz College Theatre, Melrose Park. Dec. 12-30. $$$ Charlie Brown Christmas at the Hershey Theatre, Hershey. Dec. 15 & 16. $$$$

The Nutcracker at the Parkway Central Library, Phila. Performed by Pages to Pirouettes.

Dec. 2. FREE

A Dream Is A Wish: Princess Holiday Concert at the Philadelphia Theatre Company’s Suzanne Roberts Theatre, Phila. Dec. 16. $$$$

The Nutcracker at the Emilie K. Asplundh Concert Hall, West Chester. Fri.-Sun., Performed

by Brandywine Ballet. Dec. 7-16. $$$$

How the Grinch Stole Christmas at the Merriam Theater, Phila. Dec. 19-29. $$$$ BEST OF THE REST

George Balanchine’s The Nutcracker at the Academy of Music, Phila. Performed

by Pennsylvania Ballet. Dec. 7-31. $$$$ The Nutcracker at Miller Symphony Hall, Allentown. Performed by the Repertory Dance Theatre. Dec. 8 & 9. $$$$ The Nutcracker at the Mandell Theatre, Phila. Performed by the Philadelphia Dance Academy. Dec. 14-16. $$$$ Nutcracker Sweets at the Great Valley High School, Malvern. Performed by Ballet 180. Dec. 15. $$$$

.com DECEMBER 2018

Shooting Stars Holiday Spectacular at the Upper Darby Performing Arts Center, Drexel Hill. Dec. 7 & 8. $$$

Charlotte’s Web at the Arden Theatre Company, Phila. Through Dec. 27. $$$$ Disney's Choo-Choo Soul with Genevieve at the Uptown! Knauer Performing Arts Center, West Chester. Dec. 2. $$$$ Disney’s the Lion King Kids at Rosemont College’s Rotwitt Theater, Bryn Mawr. Dec. 5-9. $$ Annie at the Mitchell Performing Arts Center, Bryn Athyn. Dec. 7, 8, 14 & 15. $$$ Romeo and Juliet at the Wolf Performing Arts Center, Bryn Mawr. Dec. 14-16. $$$ The Wizard of Oz at the Media Theatre, Media. Dec. 14-Jan. 3. $$$$

MetroKids.com 27

E X P E R I E N C E T H E M A G I C T H I S H O L I D AY S E A S O N !

Cinderella: A Musical Panto

BY

Kathryn Petersen MUSIC & LYRICS BY

Michael Ogborn DIRECTED BY

David Bradley

Perfect for ages 5 to 105!

MomSpeak

The MomSpeak Roundup Moms know things. Find out what kind of things at MetroKids.com/MomSpeak where we keep an eye out for the best local parenting blogs and share with you their tips, observations and humor. Here are two holiday-themed posts from local moms.

Look Out for Santa Katie Chiavarone, at Views from a Stepstool, shows you how to make these binoculars so your kids can keep an eye out for a big guy in a red suit.

Best Toys for Kids with Autism Lisa Lightner, founder of A Day in Our Shoes, asked her son’s therapist for gift ideas for children with developmental delays and got 50 (FIFTY!) of them.

There are suggestions for all ages, from toddlers and up.

NOW–JAN 6 610.644.3500 PEOPLESLIGHT.ORG

Storybook Musical Theatre

MetroKids.com/MomSpeak

E S I T R E !

V S D A TH U WI

Dec. 12 to 30, 2018

Get your products, programs, activities and services in front of the people who matter most!

at Gratz College Theater

Ask about our package discounts!

(No show Dec. 15, 16, 17, 24, and 25)

7605 Old York Road Melrose Park, PA

Children: $14 Adults: $16 For Reserv. & Info: 215-659-8550 www.storybookmusical.org 28 MetroKids.com

PUT YOUR AD IN HERE!

Call MetroKids at 215-291-5560 • 856-667-3555 • 302-224-3020 • 888-890-4668 • MetroKids.com

DECEMBER 2018

Child Care & Early Education Directory FY: Full Year AY: Academic Year SP: Summer Program MP: Meals Provided

BS: Before School AS: After School DA: Diapers Accepted TP: Transportation Provided

SN: Special Needs DHS*: Licensed: Dept. of Health & Human Serv.

DE*: Licensed: Dept. of Education DYF: Licensed: Dept. of Youth & Family Serv.

NAEYC: Accredited by National Association of Education of Young Children PAIS: Accredited by PA Assoc. of Independent Schools MSCES: Accredited by Middle States Commission on Elementary Schools AMS: Accredited by American Montessori Society

* Note: DHS License: requires annual on-site visits. DE License: 20% of all facilities are inspected annually.

MULTIPLE SITES

SWARTHMORE/MEDIA, DELAWARE COUNTY

FEDERATION EARLY LEARNING SERVICES (FELS) 10700 Jamison Ave., Phila., PA 215-676-7550 • Ages: 6 wks. – 12 yrs. • Hours: 6am – 6pm Buerger Early Learning Center: 619 N. Broad St., Phila.; 267-535-2643 Kehillah Early Learning Center: 2 Chester Rd., Wallingford; 610-872-0400 Kol Ami Early Learning Center: 8201 High School Rd., Elkins Park; 215-635-4180 K’tonton Early Learning Center: 715 Paxon Hollow Rd., Broomall; 610-325-4831 Ohev Shalom Early Learning Center: 944 Second Street Pk., Richboro; 215-322-9595 Lassin Early Learning Center: 10800 Jamison Ave., Phila.; 215-677-7191 Lokoff Early Learning Center: 1920 Skippack Pk., Blue Bell; 215-643-0110 Gutman Early Learning Center: 7500 West Ave., Melrose Park; 215-635-5570 Paley Early Learning Center: 2199 Strahle St., Phila.; 215-725-8930 105 years of experience providing high-quality programs for children ages 6 weeks – 12 years from diverse economic, religious and racial backgrounds. Built on a foundation of Jewish values - NAEYC & Keystone Stars accredited. AY, FY, SP, BS, AS, DA, DHS*, NAEYC

SCHOOL IN ROSE VALLEY, THE 20 School Ln., Rose Valley, PA • 610-566-1088 TheSchoolinRoseValley.org • Ages: Preschool-Grade 6 • Hours: 7:30am-6pm With over 80 years of experience, The School in Rose Valley offers a progressive, Preschool – 6th Grade program committed to the development of the whole child. Full and part time enrollment options are available for Preschool and Kindergarten students.

Weekly special subjects include Woodshop, Spanish, Science, Art, Music and Sports. SRV is located on a beautiful 9.5 acre campus just minutes from Media, PA. AY, SP, MP, BS, AS, TP, PAIS

HEY DIDDLE DIDDLE DAY SCHOOL, INC. 520 Bethlehem Pike, Ft. Washington, PA 215-654-9955 • HeyDiddleDiddleDaySchool.net LITTLE DIDDLE PRESCHOOL 440 Bethlehem Pike, Ft. Washington, PA 215-565-5866 • LittleDiddlePreschool.net • Ages: 6 wks.-PreK • Hours: 7am-6pm Our school offers full-day programs. Our staff members are well-educated and experienced which enables us to give the students an educational program in a caring, nurturing environment. FY, AY, SP, BS, AS, DA, DHS, DE

BUCKS COUNTY BRIGHT BEGINNERS ACADEMY 800 Clarmont Ave., Suite A, Bensalem, PA 19020 • 267-5207200 Brightbeginnersacademy.com • Ages: 6 wks. to 6 yrs. • Hours: 6:45am - 6pm Our preschool is designed to meet the needs of every child in a developmentally inclusive setting. Our program encourages progress at a child’s own pace and according to individual needs and abilities. Play-based learning centers for math, science, dramatic play, blocks, music, creative art and technology provide opportunities to balance and stimulate both shared and independent learning experiences. Private pay and subsidized funding accepted, infant and toddler care available. Parent volunteer opportunities available. FY, AY, SP, DA, SN, DHS*, DE TREVOSE DAY SCHOOL / NESHAMINY MONTESSORI 4951 Central Ave., Trevose, PA 19053 215–355-4373 • trevosedayschool.org • neshaminymontessori.org • Ages: 2.5-10 yrs.

Hours: 7am-6pm Established in 1970, our programs excel at offering state-of-the-art education in a community-minded environment. We combine interactive technology, the visual and performing arts and scientific exploration with a sustainable hands-on approach that values our planet and nurtures curiosity. Our teachers are Pennsylvania Certified Early Childhood and Elementary Education Teachers. FY, AY, SP, MP, BS, AS, TP, SN, AMS

CHESTER COUNTY KIMBERTON WALDORF SCHOOL 410 W. Seven Stars Rd. Kimberton, PA 610-933-3635 • Ages: PreK- 12th grade • Hours: 8am-3:15pm At Kimberton Waldorf School, learning is a process of discovery that engages the whole human being. Instead of passively receiving information, our students are involved in a dynamic process of exploration and experience, both of the world and of themselves. Emphasis on the breadth of skills and opportunities that we value in childhood and in adulthood provides a reminder that education needs to be designed to produce holistically developed learners who are well-equipped to navigate the challenges of life in the 21st century. We develop analytical thinkers with imaginative minds capable of producing life-changing ideas. Our students build capacities and skills of creativity, resourcefulness, collaboration, perseverance, integrity, and ethical understanding. How we teach this matters. Every aspect of Waldorf education is intentional and planned. Why we teach this way matters. At each stage of child development, students are challenged, capacities are built, foundations are set, and opportunities are given.

When we teach things matters.

MAIN LINE, DELAWARE COUNTY FRIENDS SCHOOL HAVERFORD 851 Buck Lane, Haverford, PA 19041 • 610-642-2334 Friendshaverford.org • Ages: Nursery through 8th Grade • Hours: 8:00am - 2:45pm Friends School Haverford, a co-ed Quaker school, promotes academic scholarship, creativity, respect, integrity, and self-awareness with a commitment to creating a culture and kindness.

Our unique hands-on, minds-on curriculum encourages and celebrates curiosity, imagination, and exploration. Offering a full-day kindergarten program with full- and half-day nursery school, preschool, and pre-k options. AY, SP, MP, BS, AS, DA, PAIS

DECEMBER 2018

LIGHTBRIDGE ACADEMY OF GARNET VALLEY 1363 Naamans Creek Rd., Garnet Valley, PA 610-364-2000 • lightbridgeacademy.com/locations/Garnet-Valley-PA Ages: 6 wks. – 5 yrs. • Hours: 6:30 am – 6:30 pm Lightbridge Academy provides a high-quality educational program along with nurturing care while also supporting the needs of busy parents. Our state-ofthe-art facility offers innovative technology. Working families love the extended hours of 6:30 am-6:30 pm. AY, SP, BS, AS, SN, TP, MP, DA, DHS*

JENKINTOWN, MONTGOMERY COUNTY ABINGTON FRIENDS 575 Washington Ln., Jenkintown, PA 215-886-4350 • AbingtonFriends.net • Ages: 3 yrs.-K Hours: 8am-3pm w/ an extended-day option Our lower school early childhood program values and preserves childhood, building on the excitement and curiosity that children bring to their first school experience. Located on our beautiful 50-acre campus, our emergent curriculum program is designed to support your child’s developing independence. AY, SP, BS, AS, DHS, DE, NAEYC, PAIS

LAFAYETTE HILL, MONTGOMERY COUNTY MIQUON SCHOOL, THE 2025 Harts Lane, Conshohocken, PA 610-828-1231 • Miquon.org • Ages: 3 yrs.-12 yrs. • Hours: 8:30am-3pm Located on a wooded 11-acre campus just outside Northwest Philadelphia, Miquon is a co-educational day school offering Progressive education for children in Nursery (age three) through Sixth Grade. Our Nursery program offers full-day, 3-day, 4-day schedules and includes art, music, science, physical education and library. Miquon teachers provide a positive and nurturing environment for children to learn through play while meeting their social, emotional, cognitive and physical needs. Snacks provided. Optional van service available. AY, SP, BS, AS, PAIS

MAIN LINE, MONTGOMERY COUNTY BALA HOUSE MONTESSORI SCHOOL 27 Conshohocken State Rd., Bala Cynwyd, PA 610-664-6767 • BalaHouse.org • Ages: 3 yrs.-6 yrs. • Hours: 8am-6pm Mixed-age classes, for ages 3 - 6 yrs., are led by sensitive, nurturing and highly qualified teachers who offer gentle guidance in an atmosphere of freedom, warmth and trust. Flexible schedules, convenient hours (7:45am to 5:45pm) and two-, three-, four-day afternoon class options are available. Art, music, gymnastics, kindergarten Spanish classes, extended care, summer camp round out our program. Some tuition assistance is available. Embracing diversity since 1969. AY, SP, DHS, DE CHILDREN’S SCHOOL AT ST. JOHN’S, THE 404 Levering Mill Rd., Bala Cynwyd, PA 610-664-4588 • Childrens-school.org • Ages: 3 mos.-K • Hours: 7am-6pm We offer a warm and creative learning environment where everyone has a “hands on” approach to learning. Our developmental approach includes music, Spanish and Tumbling Tots, Pre-K follows the Letter People Curriculum and Handwriting without Tears. Subsidized funding from the state accepted. 4-star facility with Keystone Stars. FY, SP, BS, AS, SN, DHS, DE, NAEYC

FRENCH INTERNATIONAL SCHOOL OF PHILADELPHIA 150 N. Highland Ave., Bala Cynwyd, PA • 610-667-1284 frenchschoolphila.org • Ages: 3 yrs.-Grade 8 • Hours: 7:30am-6pm The French International School of Philadelphia offers a French/English bilingual program from preschool through grade 8. Our non-French speaking students develop their verbal skills in French in the younger grades as they engage in developmentally appropriate activities. New students with no prior knowledge of French are admitted at the age of 3, 4 or 5. Extended care is provided starting at 7:30am and until 6pm. Accredited by the Middle States Association and the French Department of Education. AY, AS, BS, SP, MP, DHS, MOSES

MetroKids.com 29

Child Care & Early Education Directory THE HAVERFORD SCHOOL 450 Lancaster Ave., Haverford, PA 19041 610-642-3020 • www.haverford.org • Ages: PreK-12 Extraordinary educators prepare boys to be future-ready in a supportive learning environment designed to bring out the best in each student. Haverford strives to develop a well-balanced boy who is a high academic performer, socially and emotionally aware, and a good citizen of the School and community. Financial aid available. SP ROBERT J. WILF PRESCHOOL AND KINDERGARTEN Kaiserman JCC, 45 Haverford Rd. Wynnewood, PA 19096 610-896-7770 x118 • phillyjcc.com • Ages: 4 wks.-K2 • Hours: 8am-6pm A nurturing, child-centered environment for infants-kindergarten including gym classes, music, dance and more. We honor the uniqueness of each child, celebrating individual potential, and helping children question and discover. Teachers help children reach milestones necessary for healthy growth/ wellness. Tuition includes a family membership to the JCC. Families of all faiths welcome. Accredited by PA State Board of Private Schools. AY, SP, BS, AS, DA, DHS* TEMPLE BETH HILLEL – BETH EL EARLY CHILDHOOD CENTER 1001 Remington Rd., Wynnewood, PA • 610-649-2277 Tabber.org • Ages: 3 mos.-Kindergarten • Hours: 9am-3pm Programs for children 3 months to kindergarten. Working families love the 7:30am Early Care and 6:00pm Late Care. Special needs children welcome! AY, SP, BS, AS, DA, SN, DHS, DE WALDRON MERCY ACADEMY 513 Montgomery Ave., Merion Station, PA 19066 610-664-9847 • www.waldronmercy.org Ages: 3 yrs.-grade 8 • Hours: 8:15am-3pm Waldron Mercy Academy is a co-educational age 3 to grade 8 independent Catholic school, offering an innovative curriculum integrating academics, technology, arts, athletics and service, with a commitment to Mercy and service. WMA offers a Child Care Center and Montessori or PreSchool tracks. FY, AY, AS, BS, DA, DHS* THE WETHERILL SCHOOL 1321 Beaumont Dr., Gladwyne, PA 610-649-2299 • Wetherillschool.org Ages 2.7 yrs.-5 yrs. • Hours: 8:15am-3pm Seeks to create a warm, secure, first-school experience where the social, emotional, physical and cognitive development of each child is carefully nurtured. Curriculum based on Montessori, Piaget, Reggio Emilia schools. Classroom teachers supported by specialists in Music, Spanish, Creative Movement. Full or half-day Kindergarten. Licensed by State Board of Private Academic schools. AY, SP, BS, DE

CENTER CITY/SOCIETY HILL, PHILADELPHIA COUNTY BUSY BEES LEARNING CENTER INC. 601 Walnut St., #LL-25, Phila., PA 215-733-9271, 866-Be-Busy7 toll free • BusyBeesChildcare.com Ages: 6 wks.-5 yrs. • Hours: 7:30am-6pm ”What’s important to your family is just as important to ours.” A family owned and operated homey and contemporary facility in the spectacular Curtis Center overlooking Independence Park. We have a family room for nursing and visits, multicultural activities with focus on Spanish, Montessori philosophy, Parents as Partners Program, mature professional staff. Online classroom observation at Guardiancam.com. Snacks provided. FY, MP, BS, AS, DA, SN, DHS EARLY CHILDHOOD ENVIRONMENTS 762 South Broad St. Phila., PA 19146 215-844-0178 • www.ecedesigns.com • Ages: 3-12 yrs. • Hours: 6:30am-6pm EARLY CHILDHOOD ENVIRONMENTS provides a bilingual, multicultural program where children learn and develop socially and emotionally. Head start, pre-school and after-school programs are provided for children ages 3-12. FY, AY, SP, MP, BS, AS, DA, TP, DHS* SOCIETY HILL SYNAGOGUE 418 Spruce Street Phila., PA 19106 • 215-922-6590 www.societyhillsynagogue.org • Ages: 2-5 yrs. • Hours: 7:45am-6pm We provide the best care for your child! Small class sizes provide a warm, nurturing classroom environment. Our goal is to get your child excited about learning! Age-appropriate curriculum with emphasis on play, socialization skills, as well as rich exposure to Jewish values. We are flexible to the needs of our families! Full-day service. AY, SP, BS/AS, DA, SN THE CHILDREN’S HOUSE OF PHILADELPHIA MONTESSORI SCHOOL 2611 S. Broad St., Philadelphia, PA 215-570-0757 • www.phillychildrenshouse.com • Ages: 2.5-5 yrs.

Full day and half day programs available for our Primary and Toddler programs. Primary Program: morning Montessori program includes lunch,& group play. Toddler Program: explore age appropriate Montessori materials with a Montessori trained teacher. Extended Day: after-school snack followed by Montessori-inspired playgroup: build, cook, paint, etc. before going outdoors for dismissal. FY, AY, SP, BS, AS, NAYEC, AMS

In the Historic Curtis Center 601 Walnut St., Philadelphia, PA 19106

WILLOW GROVE, MONTGOMERY COUNTY KIDSPARK 23 Easton Rd. (Entrance on Davisville Rd.), Willow Grove, PA 215-657-KIDS (5437) • KidsPark.com • Ages: 18 mos.-12 yrs.

Hours: Mon-Thu 7am-10pm; Fri 7am-12pm; Sat 10am-12pm; Sun 1pm-6pm A family favorite for over 20 years! Hourly drop-in childcare for ages 18 months-12 yrs old.

Morning Preschool, birthday parties on the weekend. Arts & crafts, games, indoor climbing structure, music & stories. Days, evenings, weekends, attend meetings, run errands, exercise... while your children are safe and having fun. We accept CCIS. FY, SP, MP, AS, DA, SN, DHS, BS

215-733-9271

Cameras in our classrooms provide you with online observation of your child’s day!

• Family Owned & Operated • Mature, Professional Staff • Literacy Based Curriculum • Multicultural Setting

www.busybeeschildcare.com

Music, Art & Laughs!

Free Intro Classes

Saturday, January 12th

DRAWINGS, SONGS & SILLINESS

MrDavid.com 610 -239-8177

s sofoafLaifeLtiim feetime moorrieie MaMkaiknig Meem ngM

OPEN OpenHOUSE: House:

Sunday, December 16th February 2-4 pm 2-4 7, pm

RAMAH DAY CAMP

Boyer College of Music and Dance TEMPLE UNIVERSITY

PreK to 7th grade, 8-10th grade (CITs)

215-885-8556 | ramahdaycamp.org PARTIES

FESTIVALS

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7601 Old York Rd., Elkins Park

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Temple Center City 1515 Market Street 5th fl., Philadelphia, PA 19102 215 204-1512 musicprep@temple.edu

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DECEMBER 2018

Wrap Up a Year of Give a Please Touch Museum Membership.

This holiday season, give a lasting gift.

Membership benefits include...

FREE general admission for 1 year FREE parking 10% OFF at Please Touch Museum Cafe & The Kids Shop Exclusive invites to member early openings & other member only events Exclusive invites to exhibit previews

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*

*Purchase an annual membership and get your last two months free. Offer expires 12/16/18.

Don’t miss these holiday events!

Family Festival

Signature Event

Ball drops at 12 pm & 1 pm

Saturday, December 15, 2018

2

Monday, December 31, 2018

Celebrate New Year’s Eve before nap time!