Boston Parent December 2021

DECEMBER 2021

NAPPA Awards

Gift Guide Under-the-tree

WINNERS Page 8

Local Bakeries to Elevate Your Holidays Page 14 8 Ways to Have a Debt-Free Holiday Page 22

School Open House Events Page 24

Holiday Event Guide A collection of holiday experiences for families to enjoy Page 28

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Boston Parents Paper | December 2021

Contents

Volume 37 • Number 4

December 2021

Local Bakeries to Elevate Your Holidays

14

8

NAPPA Awards Gift Guide WHAT’S INSIDE

4 Family F.Y.I.

• GreaterBoston/New England Private School Guide • Your Child with Special Needs Guide • Importance of a Booster Seat

PHOTO BY PETER PARADISE

12 More Holiday Gift Ideas 18 What Type of Camp Will Your Child Like?

22 8 Ways to Have a Debt-Free Holiday

Holiday Event Guide 28 TM

Boston Parent 841 Worcester Street Suite 344 Natick, MA 01760 • 617-522-1515 info@BostonParentsPaper.com Visit us online at BostonParentsPaper.com

PUBLISHER Parenting Media, Inc ART DIRECTOR | Debbi Murzyn ASSOCIATE EDITOR | Jean Abernathy ADVERTISING SALES Holly Castro, David Morney

24 School Open House Events 26 What Not to Give Kids for Christmas 33 Subscription Service Gifts

Boston Parents Paper is published monthly by Parenting Media Inc. Please note that the advertisements in this magazine are paid for, which allows this magazine to be free to the consumer.

Copies of Boston Parents Paper are distributed to locations throughout Greater Boston and Eastern Massachusetts. Past issues are available on our website, www.BostonParentsPaper.com Send letters to the editor or article submissions to editor@bostonparent.com. Submit events to our Family Friendly Calendar at bostonparentspaper.com/event

December 2021 | BostonParentsPaper.com

3

Family F.Y.I.

The Greater Boston / New England Private School Guide is Now Available!

T

he 2021/22 edition of the Annual Private School Guide is now available on our website. In this guide is great advice on how to choose a private school. Find out when to start your search, criteria to consider, what to look for in a school and a handy timeline for your search so you stay on track with those application deadlines. Available online at www.BostonParentsPaper.com – just click on “Our Magazines” tab.

Festival of Lights T

his year the first night of Hanukkah started early on November 28, ending at sundown on December 6.

The holiday always begins on the 25th day of the Hebrew month of Kislev, but never falls on the same day each year on the Gregorian calendar. Hanukkah, the Hebrew word for “dedication,” is also known as the Festival of Lights or Feast of the Maccabees.

Kwanzaa

K

wanzaa is a seven-day festival celebrated in appreciation of Africa-American history, heritage and culture. The term ‘Kwanzaa’ originates from the Swahili expression “matunda ya kwanza,” which means ‘first fruits of the harvest.” The festival is observed from December 26th to January 1st. Each of these seven days honors principles (Unity, Selfdetermination, Collective Work and Responsibility, Cooperative Economics, Purpose, Creativity, and Faith) which are thought to have been fundamental in promoting strong, productive communities and families in Africa. Kwanzaa became a celebration of culture, community and family.

Usually, people celebrate this holiday through musical selections, drumming, libations, discussing the African principle of the day, a reflection on PanAfrican colors, feasts, candle lighting rituals, and artistic performances.

Be a Light in the Dark

W

ith all of the holiday festivities happening this month, you’re probably overlooking one offbeat occasion — NATIONAL FLASHLIGHT DAY. It falls on Winter Solstice, December 21, the longest night of the year, and could be a good time to check on your household’s flashlight supply. Make sure batteries are new in the event of a power outage.

4

Boston Parents Paper | December 2021

Special Needs Guide Now Available

O

ur 2021 edition of Your Child with Special Needs is filled with information on how to help kids with special needs thrive, what to look for in a mental health care provider, and valuable local resources and support groups. Available online at BostonParentsPaper. com – just click on Your Child with Special Needs in the “Our Magazines” tab.

BE PART OF THE STORY!

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December 2021 | BostonParentsPaper.com

5

Family F.Y.I. The Importance of a Booster Seat

By Barbara DiGirolamo, M.Ed., CPSTI Injury Prevention Coordinator Boston Children’s Hospital Injury Prevention Program

M

otor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death and disability for children 1 to 25, and the second leading cause of death for any other age group. Children age four to eight are particularly vulnerable, as this is the time they are outgrowing their five point harness car seat, and parents are often putting them in a seat belt early. A booster seat is the transition period from a five-point harness in a car seat, and using the vehicle seat belt and is vitally important to keeping this age group safe.

Since children are shorter and their muscles and bones are still developing, they are not strong enough to withstand the forces of a crash with a seatbelt alone. Their rounded hips, as opposed to pointed for adults, do not hold the seat belt down, and children can sustain severe injuries to their abdominal organs, and spinal cord.

The shoulder belt also rubs against the child’s face or neck, often having them put it behind their back, removing their upper body protection. This creates what we know as “seatbelt syndrome” in a crash, which accounts for many

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Boston Parents Paper | December 2021

facial, spinal and internal organ injuries.

Unfortunately, vehicles are designed for adults, thus we need to make adjustments to keep children safe. The booster seat is a precrash positioner and raises the child up, placing the seat belt on the “strong” parts of a child’s body, their hips and clavicle, as opposed to their soft belly and neck.

Each time you move your child to the next level of seat, you are reducing their protection, so it’s always best to keep them in their current seat to the highest height or weight allowed.

On average, a child should be at least 4’9’ (57 inches) to sit in solely a seat belt, which can take up to age twelve to reach. Booster seats reduce the risk of injury by up to 45% than with the seat belt alone. Children should also be sitting in the rear of the vehicle until 13 years of age to prevent airbag injuries.

For questions about the correct seat for your child, you can ask our child passenger safety technicians at injurypreventionprogram@childrens.harvard.edu a

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December 2021 | BostonParentsPaper.com

7

NAPPA Awards Gift Guide

By Elena Epstein, Director of the National Parenting Product Awards

KidiGo™ Basketball Hoop It’s game on with this hoop and ball.

An interactive scoreboard keeps score and cheers you on. Make a basket and pass the ball before the music stops. $34.99, ages 5+, www.vtechkids.com

Purse Pets Bring your look to life with these fabulous interactive pets packed with purse-onality. They respond to your touch, really blink and have exciting sounds and reactions $24.99, ages 4+, www.spinmaster.com

Hali X Hoverboard With a light-up body deck, illuminated rims, and in-built Bluetooth speaker, this hoverboard brings all the swagger with a smooth ride. $199.99, ages 12+, www.ridejetson.com

FeppyBox This bilingual subscription box is made to immerse kids in Spanish and English learning. Designed to raise the next generation of open-minded, resilient global citizens. $29.99, ages 3-6, www.feppybox.com For more product reviews visit nappaawards.com

8

Boston Parents Paper | December 2021

continued on page 10 >

ACSPrinBP.pdf 1 10/19/2021 1:51:31 PM

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NAPPA Awards Gift Guide <<< Continued from page 8 >>>

MasterChef Family Cooking Game Combines education with family fun by cooking your way through delicious challenges. Mystery Ingredients, Game Changers and Mad Skills will put your family to the test and introduce you to new recipes. $19.99, ages 8+, www.wildertoys.com

Vlad & Niki Superhero Surprise Enter a complete unboxing experience, allowing kids to bring a comic book story to life. Capture the fun of exploring with the help of global stars Vlad & Niki. $29.99, ages 3+, www.zuru.com

Light-Up Activity Board Let kids unlock endless hours of creativity by building and layering their own designs and colors. This easy-to-use activity board is a fun toy to help children learn basic skills. $24.99, ages 3+, www.walmart.com

PLAYMOBIL Dino Rise T-Rex: Battle of the Giants The T-Rex Battle has begun. There is a robot machine on a destructive path and your kids need to gather a dino-human team to stop them before it’s too late. $69.99, ages 5-12 years www.playmobil.us

Artsy Fartsy Not much is off-limits in this fast-paced game that keeps everyone engaged and begging for more. Team up to draw, guess and STEAL clues that will have everyone laughing out loud. $24.99, ages 10+, www.twopointohgames.com

Spirograph® Animator Experience the vibrant way for aspiring artists to create millions of designs.

Watch your creations come alive with an amazing 3D effect. $24.99-$29.99, ages 8+, www.walmart.com

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Boston Parents Paper | December 2021

Mindful Animals Calming Activity Cards Pause and destress with 50 animal-themed mindfulness and relaxation techniques for kids. Helps calm and soothe them after a very busy day — or in the middle of one. $12.00, ages 4+, www.petitcollage.com a

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More Holiday Gift Ideas For the Grandparents Share your Family Moments

For the Chocolate Aficionado

A

ura frames are the perfect gift for your family— especially grandparents. Send your gift with a surprise! Preload it with precious memories and get other family and friends to do the same. Once your recipient connects their frame to WiFi, they will see the message and photos in the app. You can even pre–enter the WiFi information for elderly relatives to ensure a hassle–free setup—all they have to do is plug in and reminisce. Every frame is shipped in a beautiful gift box with no price tag.

Starting at $179.

A

For the Future Entrepreneur Cash Flow for Kids

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rom the New York Times best-selling author of Rich Dad Poor Dad, Robert Kiyosaki, these educational board games were created to give families a sneak peek into strategies to create lifelong financial freedom including how to invest and how to build wealth as well as tips for maximizing passive income.

Youngsters will learn core principles of income, debt, cashflow and capital gains as well as assets and liabilities in a fun, easy-to-understand way while using realworld examples to get kids to practice investing, acquiring assets and dealing with the perils of liabilities. For Ages 6 and up. Available in English and Spanish. $69.95

3

Bar Pack, comes with three flavors, Frosted-Nut Medley, Frosted Gingerbread and Candy Cane Crunch makes a perfect hostess or office party gift this holiday season. But, make sure you grab one of these for yourself! They will be gone after the holidays! Available at most major natural food retailers and at www.Chocolove.com. $9.99

Kensington HI-FI Headphones with Mic

H

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Boston Parents Paper | December 2021

vailable in two flavors, Hazelnut Latte and Peppermint Crème. These cute, individually wrapped bite size morsels of deliciouness have no GMOS and are Rainforest Alliance Certified.

Perfect for Santa! Available at most major natural food retailers and at www.

Chocolove.com. $9.99

Chocolove Holiday Collection

For the Gamer

igh-quality stereo sound is provided through powerful 40mm drivers with deep bass and a wide dynamic range to deliver an exceptional listening experience with safe listening limits to protect ears from hearing loss and noise. The Noise-cancelling microphone allows for optimum speech clarity. The durable 6-foot cord is an ideal length. Compatible with Windows, Mac and Chromebook devices. $17.99

Tree Bites

JBL Quantum 100

T

he JBL Quantum 100 is a wired, over-ear headset with PU leather wrapped memory foam ear cushions. Featuring JBL QuantumSOUND SignatureTM technology and immersive audio quality and pinpoint accuracy. These headsets also come with a detachable and directional boom microphone that has echocancelling and mute features. Available in black, blue and white. $29.95 a

PHOTO COURTESY OF GINGER BETTY’S

By Alyson Gregory

14 Boston Parents Paper Paper || December December 2021

Is there anything more magical than a bakery during the holiday season?

B

akers and pastry chefs shine bright this most wonderful time of year, cueing their most delectable holiday treats and traditions so you can provision all your parties, big and small (including the pajama kind!). Check out these local sweet spots for treats of all shapes and sizes decked out for every feast on your calendar!

Bova’s

L

egendary North End Bova’s bakery keeps their doors open 24 hours a day so you can satisfy your sweetest cravings morning, noon, and night! From just bread and coffee in 1926 to flourishing, full-scale bakery, three generations have perfected authentic Italian baking so you can bring everyone’s favorite treats home for the holidays. Want to start a new tradition? Serve the more cream than cake individual Tiramisu cups for an unexpected holiday dessert—just-voted #1 in the country

by Phantom Gourmet! Bova’s understands that holidays should truly be filled with cookies— and turns out thousands of assorted holiday offerings including Italian specialty Anise snowballs, Pistachio Macaroons, and Amaretto orange cream filled delights, perfect anytime, anywhere. Get festive with an edible display of Red Velvet whoopie pies or Strawberry Brick cake along with pastries galore. Finally, swap the Peppermint Stick ice cream feast for a

peppermint-filled cannoli platter and challenge the family to a guessing game of how many different ways you can fill a cannoli at Bova’s! Tired of cooking? Order hot and cold prepared food made on location and lay out the freshest-ingredient party subs (up to 6-feet of sandwich) for a wellrounded Italian holiday. And don’t forget the famed Arancini or Rice Balls! Boston, www. bovabakeryboston.net

Ginger Betty’s Bakery

Y

ou may have guessed from the name what makes this bakery so sweet—and if it was gingerbread, you’d be right! Sugar and spice and everything nice celebrates its 25th holiday season at Ginger Betty’s bakery in Quincy where the magic of gingerbread comes to life. Celebrate the season with old-fashioned, melt-in-your-mouth ginger snaps and a festive collection of decadent holiday cookies showcasing mittens, ornaments, stockings, snowmen and more! Have a family gingerbread decorating tradition? Skip the storebought package this year and pick up Betty’s favorite cookie kits and assembled DIY gingerbread houses complete with frosting bags and extra candy for eating for a sweet stay-at-home activity. Spread the ginger joy and order holiday gift baskets for friends brimming with goodies in the spirit of Ginger Betty’s motto: Sharing Cookies, Making Friends! Curbside pickup, shipping, and local delivery. Quincy, www.gingerbettys.com continued on page 16 >>> December 2021 | BostonParentsPaper.com

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<<< continued from page 15

Flour Bakery + Cafe

PHOTO COURTESY OF FLOUR BAKERY + CAFE

I

s this the year of the Chocolate Buche de Noel? Whether it’s the debut or a longstanding family tradition, make it your standout holiday centerpiece with Flour’s famed flourless chocolate cake with white chocolate mousse covered in ganache and decorated with meringue mushrooms and figs covered in chocolate, cocoa nibs, and fresh cranberries.

Want to delight your kids? Order the playful melting snowman cookies decorated with a marshmallow head to look like they’re melting and check out this years’ baking kits as part of Joanne’s Flour Love IG Live series for a holly jolly family activity (melted snowman cookies included). Give yourself a housewarming with morning treats and trimmings and sides on your big day—after all you are truly the host with the most this year! Gift packages, pickup, and delivery options online. Boston, www. flourbakery.com

Georgetown Cupcake

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Boston Parents Paper | December 2021

via the Georgetown Cupcake App; Contactless pick-up, delivery, and overnight nationwide shipping. Boston, georgetowncupcake.com a Alyson Young Gregory is a native New Yorker, and Bostonbased freelance writer, mother, and Holistic Health Educator specializing in Ayurveda. She loves finding local treasures to share with our community.

PHOTO COURTESY OF GEORGETOWN CUPCAKE

E

nchant all creatures great and small with a dazzling array of holiday cupcakes almost too pretty to eat from specialty bakeshop Georgetown Cupcake. From Hanukkah to New Year’s, these designer beauties will be the crown jewels of all your seasonal celebrations and the most delightful gift for all of your helpers near and far! Ever wonder what Santa’s or Mrs. Claus’ favorite dozen are? Order the December 2020 specialty assortments and find out! Can you guess whose features the ‘Reindeer Munch Crunch’ cupcakes with peppermint chocolate ganache centers and white chocolate buttercream frosting topped with crushed peppermint? And what does chocolate eggnog taste like? Joy to the world for Boston’s own Newbury’s Christmas Collection Dozen and the Winter Wonderland Dozen shimmering and glimmering with sanding sugar and icy blue and white snowflake fondant decorations—possibly even better than visions of sugarplums...Order online or

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17

What Type of Camp Will Your Child Like?

By Cheryl Maguire

W

camp tomorrow?” By the end of the summer, I’m sure my mom wished there were had one choice for summer camp—the town camp. The town other options for me.

Now there are so many choices it can be camp was a traditional all-day, six hour overwhelming to figure out what type of camp with a heavy emphasis on sports. camp would be a good fit for your child.

I was more of a bookworm than an athHopefully, the following descriptions will lete so this type of camp was not a good help you to match your child with the cormatch for my personality. I remember rect camp so you hear your child tell you, coming home every day whinnying to my “Camp was so much fun today,” instead of mom, “It was so hot and all we did was what my poor mother dealt with daily. play (fill in a sport). Do I have to go to

hen I was younger, I only

Sports Specialty sports camps usually are one sport such as baseball or soccer that the child plays either for 3 or 6 hours. Depending on where you live there may even be an option for tennis, golf, surfing or sailing camp. This type of camp is typically owned by private organizations. Some towns may have town operated sports camps.

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Boston Parents Paper | December 2021

IS THIS A GOOD FIT FOR YOUR CHILD? If your child loves a specific sport and would like to improve their skills, this would be a great option. It could even be a way for your child to try a sport such a surfing that they might not otherwise have exposure to it.

Traditional Day Camp A traditional day camp is six hours (half day options may be available) and offers a variety of activities such as sports, swimming, art, and music. These camps are located at YMCAs, public schools, or private settings.

IS THIS A GOOD FIT FOR YOUR CHILD? Most of the activities are outside so if your child loves the outdoors and playing sports or team building activities then this would be a good type of camp for them. Since there is a variety of activities this would also be a good fit for a child that likes to try different things.

Sleepaway Overnight camp is when your child lives at the camp for either a week or longer period. There are Boy/Girl Scout camps and private residential camps. These camps tend to offer options such as sailing, boating, archery, horseback riding and other activities that may not be available close to your home.

IS THIS A GOOD FIT FOR YOUR CHILD? An overnight camp gives your child the chance to meet other kids from different states and countries. There is also more time to do activities and foster independence compared to traditional day camps.

Continued on page 20 >>> December 2021 | BostonParentsPaper.com

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<<< Continued from page 19

Travel There are two types of travel camps. One type is when your child goes on day trips and the other type sometimes referred to as “teen tours” is when your child travels with a group for an extended period (usually a few weeks or a month). This type of camp is located at religious or private organizations.

IS THIS A GOOD FIT FOR YOUR CHILD? Some of these camps travel to places by a plane so it would give your child the chance to travel to a place that you might not have gone to as a family. If your child enjoys experiencing new destinations, then this would be a great fit for them.

Educational An educational camp focuses on learning a new skill or subject matter. Since it is camp and not school these types of camps tend to be hands-on with an emphasis on fun. These camps are located at public schools, museums, and colleges.

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Boston Parents Paper | December 2021

IS THIS A GOOD FIT FOR YOUR CHILD? If your child is curious and always asking questions about how/why things work, this may be a good match for them. If a child is interested in learning a new skill such as commuter programming or speaking Spanish some educational camps offer that as well.

Art/Musical Theater Specialty art or musical theater camps focus solely on the arts. Musical theater camps typically showcase a production such as “Beauty and the Beast,” whereas in Attributes of a Successful Student an art camp a child would use a variety of art mediums It can be diffi cult to accurately and objectively assess like painting or drawing. These type of camps are how your children developing as students.

Selwyn In the located in public are schools or private organizations. points benchmark skills be aware of thatusually kids need publictoschool setting thetodrama teacher runs the to acquire the earliest such but as knowing camp, andfrom it isn’t widely grades, advertised it is available for anyone to participate.

To find out more information how to organize binders, writing down homework call public schools in your area. assignments and checking book bags and planners, to

make sure A they have everything they need.

She also says IS THIS GOOD FIT FOR YOUR CHILD? it’s a good sign when kids have the impetus to askthen a friend If your child is creative and prefers the indoors, these or go toofthe teacher if they aren’t sure or have types camps would be worth looking into.aItquestion. may be a Oftway en during the school yeartoyour might good to introduce the arts yourchildren child since most of spend more time with their class they do these camps are time-limited for than one week. awith you, so it’s essential they learn to be proactive. “I think one Cheryl Maguire holds a Master of Counseling Psychology degree. mistake parents make, especially in the younger grades, She is married and is the mother of twins and a daughter. Her iswriting assuming theirpublished child is either or notParents able has been in Thetoo Newyoung York Times, to advocate for themselves,” says Dean.

She sees a of Magazine, AARP, Healthline, Your Teen Magazine, andlot many emails from parents trying to smooth out problems their other publications. She is a professional member of ASJA. You kids are having in class.

As a teacher, Dean would rather can find her at Twitter @CherylMaguire05. parents encourage her students to work out the problem for themselves by using available resources or speaking to her to get the information they require.

Says Dean, “A lot of times when I look at my classrooms, the kids that are successful are more well equipped at navigating the school, the class, their friends – problem-solving through things so they don’t take away from doing their work.”

In addition to self-advocating and having a strong organizational system, Selwyn says the better students tend to enjoy reading. “The more they put their hands on books, the better off they are. But that’s not the whole picture,” she adds. “The good student would be PATUXET ADVENTURE CAMP 2022 thePLIMOTH well-rounded student. Th ey like to do other kinds of things so it gives the child the opportunity to develop and to see what theylike really ” with a new immersive, Explore the past neverlike. before

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You`ll new skillsthat along the way by as you exploreor their school isn’tlearn something happens accident homes, boats, and ships; work in the gardens, play games, overnight. It requires a thoughtful approach, consistent and try your hand at some 17th-century trades and chores. support and a concerted effortforbyPlimoth the parent, Pre-registration is required Patuxetschool Adventure and most the student. And whento success Camp.importantly Please contact programs@plimoth.org learn is more.whether Best for ages 8-12. attained, it manifests itself in improved grades, increased sense of responsibility or anything else that CHOOSE YOUR proud, cheer them on as you makes you, as a parent, ADVENTURE! would if they just scored the winning touchdown or June at 27the - July 1 nailed a solo choir recital. Says Dean, “Success July 11 -get 15 equal weight if not more than in school should Julythey 18-22 anything else might do. I’m all for celebrating August 1-5 and growth.” ■ effort, improvement Brian SperoEarly-bird is a frequent contributor BostonApril Parents Paper. pricing availableto through 1, 2022.

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Plan a visit to the Waterworks Museum and learn about the technology and innovation behind one of the country’s first metropolitan water systems.

FAMILY DAY ~ SUNDAY, OCTOBER 4 Hands-on Engineering Activities!

Science Demonstrations! Water Fun! FREE ADMISSION www.WaterworksMuseum.org 2450 Beacon Street, Boston, MA 02467 ~ 617-277-0065 Hours ~ Wed: 11am-9pm; Thur-Sun: 11am-4pm December 2021| |BostonParentsPaper.com BostonParentsPaper.com 19 21 September 2015

8 Ways

to Have a Debt-Free Holiday

It

happens earlier and earlier every year.

The holiday music starts playing at the start of November, and the stores have holiday items out before Halloween is even over. AND THE COMMERCIALS

FOR TOYS! That’s when I really start to feel anxious. And what

will we get for our relatives this year? How will we show our appreciation for people like teachers and daycare providers without burning up our credit card? Don’t worry … here’s some help!

By Kerrie McLoughlin

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Boston Parents Paper | December 2021

1

Have a plan.

Yes, this means using that dirty word: budget. I set up a budget in Excel every year and love it because I can easily set formulas to add and subtract for me.

This way I can play with numbers to see how much I actually have available to spend on each person on my shopping list. If doing a budget in Excel isn’t your thing, head to www.homeeverafter.com/christmas-shoppinglist-planner-budget-spreadsheet-free-printable for a free downloadable and printable holiday budget planner.

2

Rack up the credit card reward points, but only if you can handle it.

If your credit card has a rewards program where you can get gift cards based on how much money you put on your credit card, use it. Caution: you must be able to pay off every cent you put on by the due date. If you don’t have it budgeted, don’t spend it. I’m able to earn a few hundred dollars’ worth of gift cards for holiday spending every year using this system, which I can then use to shop or just give the gift card as a gift itself. If you go to http:// www.creditcards.com/reward.php, they compare the top credit card reward programs for you.

5

Give up on trying to impress.

Sure, the mailman would dig a $100 gift card to a local restaurant, and your sitter would love a $100 iTunes card, but you probably can’t afford that or you wouldn’t be reading this article. Do what you can and let people appreciate you for who you are!

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6

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Rack up the MyPoints.

I’ve been a member of www.MyPoints.com for many years and have earned gift cards not only by reading emails (5 points each), but by sometimes spending money with certain merchants they support. I’m quickly working toward saving up 10,000 MyPoints, which will equal $50 cash in my PayPal account. The bonus is that I use my credit card to purchase gifts I would have bought anyway, so I double my holiday earning power.

Make it yourself!

Gifts in a jar (www.TipJunkie.com/jar-homemadegifts), like cookie, cake, pie and drink mixes and other homemade treats always go over well, and they are cheap to make! Put them in reusable containers, and you’ve gone green, as well!

Sell stuff.

Getting rid of your clutter not only makes you money, but it also makes room for incoming holiday gifts. You can sell books, toys, clothes, movies, music and more at consignment shops, www.Craigslist. com or even throw a garage sale if you’re really feeling industrious!

Buy used.

Now that your “trash” is going out of your house, you can find “treasure” at thrift shops, consignment shops, garage sales, www.Craigslist. com, www.Amazon.com and www.eBay.com. What a great way to save at least 50% on items you’re looking for.

8

Buy nothing!

To stay out of debt, consider not buying a gift for your spouse and letting him or her know you want nothing but to live a debt-free life full of security and hope for the future. If you just can’t stomach that, it can be a fun time trying to find something for each other on a $10 budget each!

A love poem is free and goes a long way in my house. a Kerrie McLoughlin blogs at TheKerrieShow.com about her roller coaster ride life homeschooling 5 kids.

December 2021 | BostonParentsPaper.com

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Open House Events

More Events Online at www.BostonParentsPaper.com ARLINGTON Lesley Ellis School Virtual Open House December 8, 2021 @ 9:00 am 34 Winter St www.lesleyellis.org

BOSTON Boston University Academy Open House November 30, 2021 @ 6:30 pm 1 University Rd www.buacademy.org The Newman School Virtual Open House December 11, 2021 @ 11:30 am 247 Marlborough St www.newmanboston.org Park Street School Virtual Open House December 9, 2021 @ 9:00 am 67 Brimmer St www.parkstreetschool.org

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CAMBRIDGE The International School of Boston (ISB) Elementary School Virtual Open House January 20, 2022 @ 7:00 pm Secondary School Virtual Open House January 27, 2022 @ 7:00 pm 45 Matignon Rd www.isbos.org

CONCORD Tremont School Open House December 14, 2021 @ 7:00 pm January 13, 2022 @ 5:00 pm Virtual Open House November 30, 2021 @ 7:00 pm 575 Concord Road www.tremontschool.org

GREENFIELD Stoneleigh-Burhnam School Virtual Visits December 8, 2021 @ 6:30 pm On Campus Open House January 17, 2022 @ 9:00 am 74 Bernardston Rd www.sbcschool.org

Boston Parents Paper | December 2021

LEXINGTON Waldorf School of Lexington Open House December 4, 2021 @ 9:30 am 739 Massachusetts Ave www.thewaldorfschool.org

NEWTON Jackson Walnut Park School Outdoor Take a Tour Tuesdays November 30, 2021 @ 9:00 am 200 Jackson Rd www.jwpschools.org

NEWTON CENTRE Wellan Montessori School Kindergarten Virtual Info Session December 2, 2021 @ 10:30 am Montessori Myths & Magic (virtual) December 8, 2021 @ 7:30 pm 80 Crescent Ave www.wellan.org

Check out bostonparentspaper. com/open-housecalendar.html for more School Open House events Looking to add your school?

You can do so at bostonparentspaper.com/ open-house-submission. html

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December 2021 | BostonParentsPaper.com

25

By Sarah Lyons

M

y children began their Christmas lists in October.

Curious to see what made the list this year, I read over my daughter’s shoulder and was shocked to see that she had asked for a doll that spits up and wets itself, an expensive Lego set, and a live donkey. These items were NOT on my Christmas list for my children. When you begin your Christmas shopping this year, instead of asking what the kids would like for Christmas, consider asking the parents what they do NOT want their kids to get for Christmas.

A million pieces

Everyone is likely to get frustrated with a toy that comes with “a million” pieces. In no time, the pieces tend to get spread across the entire house and it is nearly impossible to get them back together. “Once the pieces are lost the whole toy is pointless because you can’t do anything with it if certain pieces are missing.” says Kassie Rew, mom of three. Prior to giving, consider the ages of the children in the home. A nine year old may ask for Polly Pocket dolls or Legos but they can easily turn into a choking hazard for a baby brother and a become huge stress for the parents.

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Boston Parents Paper | December 2021

Some assembly required

Every parent cringes when their child opens a fun and exciting toy and the box has the words “some assembly required” which usually means the parent spends hours reading frustrating directions and assembling the toy late into the night. If you are giving a toy that requires assembly, please consider putting it together prior to giving.

A not-so-joyful noise

Loud toys have been irritating parents since toys were invented. Musical instruments, toys with hammers, and

battery operated toys with no volume control all contribute to the already high level of noise pollution in the average household. When purchasing a loud toy for a favorite niece or nephew, please stop and imagine it being passed back to your own house when you have children.

If that makes you shudder, keep shopping.

Batteries not included

While we are talking about battery powered toys, please consider a few things as you purchase a gift.

Does the toy require batteries? If yes, are the batteries regularly available at a reasonable price? “We don’t care for toys that require massive amounts of expensive batteries. Sometimes the batteries cost more than the toy itself.” says Jessi Cole, mom of three. Check if the toy comes with batteries or if you must purchase them separately. Make sure to have batteries on hand when the child opens the gift, so they can begin playing immediately.

Toys that encourage violence

Lauren Heller, mom of twins, says “Anything that encourages hitting or violence against siblings is discouraged. They fight enough as it is.” Toys such as Nerf guns, swords, punching bags, and boxing gloves are not ideal for families that may not want weapons in the house.

Amy Cameron, mom of three, has a different perspective “A water gun, lightsaber, or Nerf gun for only one sibling is not desired. They need to be equally armed.” It is best to ask permission before purchasing these items.

All that glitters isn’t always gold

Many families love to receive craft items as gifts and even ask for them specifically. Others may find them messy, stressful, and frustrating. Play dough, paint, markers, stamps, beads, and glitter all fall into this category. “It doesn’t feel like a gift when we are trying to get ink out of laundry, carpet, or off the walls.” says Bridget Estelle, mom of four. Keeping this in mind, some families do enjoy crafts. Double check with the parents to see what their policy on craft supplies is before you make your purchase.

Purchasing a gift for someone is always challenging because you want it to be enjoyed. Ask the parents what they suggest, if anything is not permitted in the house, and if you have a great idea, run it by them first. Consider buying classic toys that are always a hit or an experience like a membership to a local attraction. Even if you have purchased one of the toys mentioned above or do in the future, don’t fret. Parents know that it truly is the thought that counts and are grateful that their children have generous people in their lives. a Sarah Lyons is a stay at home mom to six kids, including two year old triplets.

Gifts parents LOVE to receive for their kids • Educational toys • Experiences — zoo membership, movie passes, classes, camps • Complete gifts — a tablet, case, warranty, and gift card for apps • Accessories — a train to go with a new train set, furniture for a new doll house • Books • Batteries • Practical gifts — clothes, shoes, coats

December 2021 | BostonParentsPaper.com

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A Holiday Event Guide

s holiday celebrations cautiously make their comeback in 2021, we are creating and constantly updating a collection of Bay Area family friendly holiday experiences for families to enjoy this year and years to come. Please safely enjoy your family and these fabulous events during the holidays. With a much smaller offering of events this year remember to check cancellation policies, get your tickets early, always check event’s websites for Covid-19 restrictions and requirements and confirm event information one last time, just before the date.

Holiday Lights, Dancing, Shopping and more!

A

s holiday celebrations cautiously make their comeback in 2021, we are creating and constantly updating a collection of New England family friendly holiday experiences for families to enjoy this year and years to come. Please safely enjoy your family and these fabulous events during the holidays. With a much smaller offering of events this year remember to check cancellation policies, get your tickets early, always check event’s websites for Covid-19 restrictions and requirements and confirm event information one last time, just before the date.

Tree Lightings and Light Shows

R

WP Zoo turns into a sparkling Winter Wonderland! Holiday Lights Spectacular is an all-new walkthrough event featuring festive, larger-than-life dazzling displays with 1.5 million illuminated lights! It’s a mustsee event that should be on everyone’s holiday to-do list.

Through January 2, Roger Williams Park Zoo, Providence, RI

www.rwpzoo.org

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Boston Parents Paper | December 2021

PHOTO COURTESY OF ROGER WILLIAMS PARK ZOO

Holiday Lights Spectacular at Roger Williams Park Zoo

USS Constitution Tree Lighting Ceremony

J

oin the USS Constitution crew in the Navy Shipyard in Charlestown for the USS Constitution’s annual Christmas tree lighting ceremony, and enjoy holiday music, free hot chocolate and cookies, and a visit by Santa and his merry Elves.

Hanukkah – Menorah Lighting

N

ew England’s tallest menorah will be lit nightly at sundown through Monday, December 6 to celebrate Hanukkah, The Festival of Lights!

Nightly through December 6, Boston Common, Boston

Winterlights — Canton, North Andover, Stockbridge

T

his holiday season, three of the Trustees beautiful garden properties sparkle with thousands of shimmering, artfully designed holiday lights. Bring the whole family for a magical, fun, and safe outdoor experience – with food, refreshments, and more. Included in USA TODAY’s top 10 Public Holiday Light Displays in the country for 2020, experience this treasure with your friends and family.

Through January 9, Eleanor Cabot Bradley House in Canton, Naumkeag in Stockbridge, Stevens-Coolidge House & Gardens in North Andover, www.thetrustees.org/winterlights

PHOTOS COURTESY OF KYLE KLEIN

December 4, USS Constitution in the Navy Shipyard, Charlestown

Columbus Park Trellis Lighting - Boston

L

ocated at 110 Atlantic Avenue on Boston’s historic waterfront, Christopher Columbus Park is transformed nightly into a beautiful holiday display when the park’s 260 feet of trellis are illuminated with 50,000 blue lights along with 14 decorated trees near Tia’s, the Marriott Long Wharf Hotel, and throughout the park. .

Nightly Boston Common, Boston

Light Up Seaport

G

ather on Seaport Common (85 Northern Ave) for live music, treats from nearby restaurants, and various giveaways, and then see the Christmas tree lighting.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE TRUSTEES

December 3, Seaport Common, Boston

Continued on page 30 >>> December 2021 | BostonParentsPaper.com

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<<< Continued from page 29

Tree Lightings and Light Shows Continued

North End Tree Celebration & Holiday Stroll

Magic of Lights at Gillette Stadium

G

C

illette Stadium will shine bright this holiday season as guests experience the thrill of spectacular lights displays featuring familiar holiday favorites and accompanied by a festive soundtrack. Created with nearly one million sparkling lights, Magic of Lights is a nostalgic and festive experience for guests of all ages that can’t be missed this holiday season.

elebrate the season with the tree lighting, meet Santa, and enjoy hot chocolate and caroling. Local North End students will be having their annual bake sale (all proceeds benefit the school), so it’s a great opportunity to stock up on holiday treats.

PHOTO COURTESY OF GILLETTE STADIUM

Through December 24, Gillette Stadium, Foxborough

December 3, Corner of Hanover & North Streets, Boston

Bright Nights — Springfield

B

right Nights is a holiday drive-thru light experience which includes the Winter Garden, Jurassic World, Kwanzaa, Everett Barney Mansion, Happy Holidays, Springfield, as well as the additions to Toy Land featuring Milton Bradley Company and Hasbro iconic toys and games, and the Springfield Thunderbirds display.

Through January 2, Forest Park, Springfield

Zoolights at Stone Zoo— ­­Boston

Z

ooLights is set to once again dazzle visitors of all ages! Enter a winter wonderland of tree-lined paths lit by thousands of twinkling lights. Take a one-way stroll through festively decorated Yukon Creek, home to black bears, bald eagle, Canada lynx, reindeer and arctic foxes. And this year, several illuminated large-scale lantern displays will light up your winter’s night. Tuesdays, 6-9 p.m., starting Nov 30: Meet Mrs. Claus as she spreads holiday cheer through the Zoo! While Santa’s too busy at the North Pole this year, add some magic to your holiday season with a Santa ZOOm! Nightly thru January 9, 2022, Stone Zoo, Stoneham

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Boston Parents Paper | December 2021

Performances

Performances

Boston Ballet’s The Nutcracker — Boston

C

reate an annual tradition with your family this holiday season at one of New England’s favorite celebrations. From the dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy to the dazzling snow scene – set to the iconic music of Tchaikovsky – The Nutcracker is a production beloved by audiences of all ages that your family will never forget Through December 26, Boston Opera House, Boston, (617) 695-6955, www. bostonballet.org

A Christmas Story: The Musical — Boston

T

HE GRINCH broke box office records for two consecutive years on Broadway during its holiday engagements at the St. James and Hilton theatres in New York. Since then, more than 1.5 million theatre-goers across America have been delighted by this heart-warming holiday musical, which The New York Times praised as “100 times better than any bedtime story” and the Gannett papers hailed as “A genius of a show! A total delight for both kids and adults.”

PHOTO COURTESY OF BOSTON BALLET

The Nutcracker — Weston

S

hare the merriment of the holiday season as the accomplished dancers of Commonwealth Ballet and guest artists frolic, battle and dance through Clara’s holiday dream. Join the family party set before a magical tree and enjoy the laughter, magic, and wonder of this holiday classic accompanied by the beloved Tchaikovsky score. This fully staged production is sure to captivate and entertain all ages. It’s the perfect start to the holiday season!

December 17 - 19 The Eleanor Welch Casey Theatre at Regis College, Weston, www.commonwealthballet.org/nutcracker

Greater Salem Ballet Company: The Nutcracker

Cirque Dreams Holidaze — Boston

ollow Clara on her magical journey.

Brave the battle of the mice and soldiers led by the Nutcracker Prince and be amazed by the growing Christmas tree. Glide through the Christmas tree forest complete with falling snow and arrive at the palace of sweets where Clara is entertained by a cast of characters and dazzled by the Grand Pas de Deux of the Sugar Plum Fairy and her Cavalier.

IRQUE DREAMS HOLIDAZE lights up the stage in this popular and dazzling family holiday spectacular.

This annual tradition wraps a whimsical, Broadway-style musical infused with contemporary circus artistry into the ultimate holiday gift for the entire family!

F

onductor Keith Lockhart and the Boston Pops present the beloved annual Holiday Pops concert at Boston’s Symphony Hall. You’ll get to hear and see all your favorites: the Pops’ classic «Sleigh Ride» and «Twelve Days of Christmas,» jazzy arrangements of traditional favorites, «O Holy Night,» «Home for the Holidays,» a virtual performance with the Tanglewood Festival Chorus, and a special new reading of «A Visit from St. Nicholas» («‘Twas the Night Before Christmas”). Special Kid’s matinee shows available.

December 3 - 24, The Hanover Theatre, Boston, www.bochcenter.org

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December 10 & 11. Boch Center Shubert Theatre, Boston, www. bochcenter.org

December 11, The Lynn Auditorium, Lynn, www.TheGSBC.com

Holiday Pops — Boston

C

December 7 - 19, Boch Center Wang Theatre, Boston, www.bochcenter.org

The Nutcracker — Boston & Dorchester

D

iscover the magic. Jose Mateo Ballet Theatre brings its original, enchanting production of The Nutcracker to the Cutler Majestic Theatre in Boston then to The Strand Theatre in Dorchester. Now in its 34th season, JMBT’s The Nutcracker whisks young and old alike to the Land of the Sweets where dreams come true and anything is possible.

Through December 8, Cutler Majestic Theatre, Boston & The Strand Theatre, Dorchester, (617) 945-1944, www.ballettheatre. org/nutcracker Continued on page 32 >>> December 2021 | BostonParentsPaper.com

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<<< Continued from page 31

Performances

Continued

Family Trees: A Celebration of Children’s Literature—Concord

Urban Nutcracker — Boston

A

nthony Williams’ Urban Nutcracker, the modern Boston-centric holiday classic, will celebrate its 20th annual season at the Shubert Theatre.

The move to the historic Shubert Theatre will continue to allow even more Bostonians an opportunity to experience what The Boston Globe has deemed “a holiday arts tradition reflecting the rich multicultural diversity of Boston.”

December 18 & 19, Boch Center Shubert Theatre, Boston, www.bochcenter.org

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Boston Parents Paper | December 2021

PHOTO BY PETER PARADISE

C

oncord’s renowned literary tradition takes a creative twist during the holiday season when the Concord Museum opens the annual Family Trees: A Celebration of Children’s Literature.

A benefit exhibition with related programs, Family Trees fills the Museum with trees and wreaths of all shapes and sizes fancifully dressed for the occasion with charming original ornaments inspired by a dazzling selection of children’s picture books.

Through January 2, Concord Museum, Concord, www.concordmuseum.org

Shopping & Craft Fairs Christmas Craft Fair at Old South Church — Boston

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overs of finely crafted beeswax candles, turned wood, and sparkling blown glass know to arrive early, where 30 New England artists and artisans will offer some of their finest work on one day only.

December 7. Gordon Chapel in Old South Church, Boston, www.oldsouth.org

SOWA Winter Festival — Boston

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ou’ll find the perfect handmade gifts, sip on winter cocktails, and discover the best of the SoWa Art + Design District. Shop from 100 of the region’s best makers and specialty food vendors in the SoWa Power Station which is transformed into a local and unique marketplace. While you stroll, savor favorite winter cocktails, seasonal craft brews and wines. Enjoy food and activities, as well as the galleries, artist studios, and shops that call SoWa home year ‘round. This is a family friendly event.

December 3 - 12. SOWA Boston, Boston, www.sowaboston.com a

Subscription Service Gifts ARE THE GIFTS THAT KEEP GIVING

By Cassidy McKean

A Perfectly Gastronomical Experience One of the best parts of choosing a subscription service for a friend or loved one is that you can really drill down into their personal preferences.

For instance, picky eaters can expand their palates with options such as pre-planned meal ideas, and according to Eat2Explore, customization is part of the process. There are also boxes that cater to specific types of foods or beverages, and it’s not unusual to sign up for a box that contains jerky from different parts of the world, or a box of chocolates for those who simply can’t ignore the cacao delicacy. Other options could include

PHOTO BY K ASTURI ROY ON UNSPLASH

T

here’s nothing worse than browsing the aisles for hours on end, looking for that perfect gift for the person who seemingly already has it all. But along comes a savior in a cardboard cape, and you’re filling out the details for a three-month trial to a subscription service, a booming industry that’s already growing at a rate of 100% per year. Who doesn’t like receiving delivery of goodies and, more importantly, who doesn’t like receiving a box of goodies tailored specially for them?

The subscription service might just replace those endless meanderings in shopping malls once and for all.

craft beers and rare vintages of wines, and for those who want a truly unique experience, candy selections from across the world will be a treat.

The Gift of Choice One month your better half decides to be a gear head and the next month, he’s a bona fide techie. This will make it a little bit difficult to pinpoint a specific subscription service to satisfy his ever-evolving interests. While you could get him two subscriptions with the hope that he won’t expand his interest further, there is also the possibility of allowing him to browse through the subscription options he’d like to go with, and perhaps highlight those services that have short trial periods to allow him to change the service as needed. You’re even covered if he’s the type that never makes it to the mall to try out some new outfits and would much rather set his shorts (even if it’s the only pair he has) on fire than go clothing shopping. Men’s fashion subscription services are picking up momentum and are considered one of the coolest subscription choices if you’re looking for the perfect gift.

Learning Through Play

PHOTO BY FREDDIE COLLINS ON UNSPLASH

Early childhood development specialists encourage learning through play, as the brain is more able to retain information when the information seems like a reward. One

Who doesn’t like receiving delivery of goodies and, more importantly, who doesn’t like receiving a box of goodies tailored specially for them?

of the best ways to encourage little ones to reach their developmental milestones and still enjoy hours of play is with STEM toys. Subscription services now offer a fine selection of these toys that will help parents and caregivers source high-quality toys with the added convenience of having them on auto-deliver. If you’re short on ideas on what to get those new parents, this is an ideal gift.

For Your Beloved Fido While it’s still possible to pick up something nice from the pet store, there’s a way to make your mailman more endearing to your pooch. Simply ensure that one of those deliveries is filled with pet-friendly toys and goodies, and they’re as good as besties. This also happens to be the ideal gift for the pet lover, as a display of affection to their fur baby will undoubtedly count toward friendship points.

Subscription services as a gift are not only great in terms of exposing the recipient to products they may not have encountered before; they also reveal that the giver has insight into the preferences of the recipient.

These goods are often sourced from high-end suppliers who try to expose consumers to goods that are a little less generic. a Cassidy McKean is a freelance writer.

December 2021 | BostonParentsPaper.com

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GREAT SCHOOLS

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Boston Parents Paper | December 2021

Creating meaningful change for students with brain injury and neurobehavorial disorders.

We are excited to announce that the school is moving to Norwood to a NEW and BIGGER campus in December 2021!

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December 2021 | BostonParentsPaper.com

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