The Day My Son Choked

By

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July 23, 2018

choking - Boston Moms Blog

Sleeping in, coffee brewing, kids getting dressed and ready — it was shaping up to be a wonderful and relaxing Mother’s Day. After our nice morning, we headed to my brother’s for an afternoon cookout. The kids played outside, and the new puppy got a lot of attention. The grill was fired up, and dinner was about to be served. Everyone was having a great time!

The dining room was full of laughter, smiles, kids, and food. And then, in an instant, the mood changed. I heard, “OH NO!” and saw my son struggling. Before I even knew it, I was up out of my seat, thinking to myself, NO, NO, NO, this is NOT going to happen. I picked up my 3-year-old, tipped him head down, and whacked his back with a series of hard blows. I didn’t stop until I heard someone say, “It’s up, it’s up!” and I saw his food on the ground.

My son had choked on a piece of chicken.

Chicken, a food we’ve eaten a thousand times.

Chicken, the healthy meat he loves (especially wings)!

Chicken, the food I will now fear.

Since he was born, I have had a pretty significant fear of choking. More so than any fears of the other bad things that could happen. Some would say I was a little crazy delaying the introduction of solid foods or how small I would cut (and still do) his food.

This is why.

Those 30, or even fewer, seconds are not something I EVER want to re-live. Those seconds I replay over and over again. Thankfully, the outcome is fine, but did I do the right thing?

Do you still tip your 30-something-pound child face down and whack their back when they’re choking? Should I have given him the Heimlich? Should I have looked in his mouth?

These questions need answers.

And I have found how to get them. A CPR and First Aid class is now on my calendar. I have signed up for a refresher course since the class I took previously was before my son was born, almost 4 years ago. My family has committed to going to the class, too.

No one has forgotten that incident.

I highly recommend everyone take a class. Obviously, caution can help avoid these situations on occasion, but you never know when they can and will happen. So take a course, be prepared, and hope you never have to use what you learned. We are our children’s protectors — the least we can do is be prepared.

The Joys of Riding the T While Pregnant

By

Kat Cornetta

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July 20, 2018

riding the T - Boston Moms Blog

I was a frequent MBTA rider for over a decade before I became pregnant with my son. Over those years of train, subway, and bus commutes, I had seen enough to know that when I became pregnant, riding the T might not be the best of experiences. Somehow, I got through it with a sense of humor, and now here I am, doing it all over again while pregnant with my second child.

Here is what you can expect if you ride the T while pregnant, by trimester.

First trimester: Morning sickness and the T

You may have gotten used to bumpy and swirly subway commutes pre-pregnancy, but that all flies out the window if you end up with morning sickness. That large thump when the subway hits an odd part of track? Enough to make you turn olive.

Even if you don’t suffer from bad morning sickness, an especially fast train could bring it on. When I was three months pregnant with my first son, and blissfully impacted by just minor morning sickness, I found myself on a Blue Line train driven by someone obviously trying out for NASCAR. I had not felt that ill since that time in my 20s when I took my first and last tequila shots.

If you do suffer from moderate to bad morning sickness, you may find yourself nibbling on a granola bar while on the train to keep the nausea at bay. But then you’re opening up the chance to get dirty looks from the “Please don’t eat on the train” crowd. One day recently I was quietly and discreetly eating my granola bar when someone shot me the dirtiest look. I wanted to say, “It’s either eat this or vomit on your shoes. Which would you prefer?” (I didn’t vomit or say that — don’t worry.)

Second trimester: Surfing with a beach ball

Thank goodness you are (presumably) full of more energy in your second trimester, because odds are, your commutes mean you’re standing on crowded trains. Most of your fellow commuters aren’t going to notice or care that you are carrying a rapidly growing baby, and thus, when seats are at a premium, you won’t get preference unless you say something. If you are non-confrontational, like me, that means you’re standing.

Standing on a moving subway while pregnant is like surfboarding while holding a beach ball. That means your days of winging it and standing without holding on are on temporary hold. You have to hold on to something. Your balance is not what it once was.

It also can be frustrating — especially when you might be originally from a region with a slower pace of life — to have people cutting in front of you, shoving you, and checking you like a hockey player to get on a train. Do you not see this waddle?! How dare you cut in front of my poor, waddling self?! (This is especially true when you’re short, and your bump is usually way below most people’s line of sight.) Just take a deep breath, maybe mutter, “How rude,” a la Stephanie Tanner in Full House, and let it go. It is annoying and rude, but there is very little you can do about it. And you need to release your stress during this time in your pregnancy, not let it build up.

Third trimester: No, I will not have this child while sitting next to you

During your second trimester, you most likely couldn’t find a seat, but during your third, people are more apt to give you one… and then run like the wind away from you. Or sit next to you, but inch as far away from you as humanly possible. It is almost like they fear your advanced pregnancy is contagious. But the fear in their face gives them away — they’re afraid you will somehow give birth next to them within the 10 minutes of your subway ride together. It usually doesn’t happen that quickly, fellow transit traveler. You don’t have to worry.

And even now, when you feel like the size of Texas, you will still come across incredibly inconsiderate people. Two years ago, on my very last day of commuting into work before my maternity leave — when my outfit made it very evident I was very pregnant — I not only had to stand on a crowded commuter rail train, I had to stand for half of a crowded Green Line train ride. Due to where I had to stand, my bump ended up in the face of someone sitting down, who looked up at me, shook their head in disgust and then buried their head in their iPhone. Where do you think I’m supposed to put this thing? It’s not like I can just detach my bump like one takes off a backpack.

We could all stand to be a little nicer to each other as we go about our days. If we all ride public transit with that in mind, maybe riding the T while pregnant will become easier!

5 Boston Day Trips Everyone in the Family Will Enjoy

By

Rachel South

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July 19, 2018

I’ve been in Boston for about three years, and one of my favorite things about living here is visiting all the amazing places in New England. Coming from the Midwest, it has been so nice to live somewhere where it is such a breeze to drive to cool new towns. Since traveling with a toddler can sometimes be challenging, day trips are the perfect way to check out new places without disrupting the routine too much.

In order to make the trip enjoyable for everyone, try these tips I’ve learned along the way:

Keep the drive short

I won’t do a day trip that is more than one and a half hours each way. That is pretty much the limit on how much anyone in the family wants to drive in one day.

Eat at a good restaurant

In order to make the trip enjoyable for the adults, I research restaurants that look amazing and try not to worry whether it is suitable for kids. I think any restaurant can be “kid friendly” for breakfast or lunch, so I look for a place where I want to eat.

Let your kids run

For my toddler to stay happy, he needs space to run around. I look for nice parks, beaches, or big open spaces to hang at so he can get his energy out.

And here are five great places I’ve been to lately that make awesome day trips:

Portsmouth, NH :: 55 miles from Boston

To eat: For contemporary seafood, fun cocktails, and a cool atmosphere, head to Row 34 (they also have a Boston location). If you’re in the mood for something a little more casual, I highly recommend The River House, with gorgeous views of the Piscataqua River and a great lobster roll!

To do: Definitely head to Prescott Park, where the little ones can run around and adults can take in the fantastic views of the river and beautiful gardens. Stroll down Market Street and check out all the cute shops and galleries. Your kids might even enjoy shopping if you take them to G. Willikers! Books and Toys!

Providence, RI :: 50 miles from Boston

To eat: I had a great brunch at The Salted Slate, and its central location made it ideal for walking around after. In order to ease those sweet cravings, head to Knead Doughnuts. With two Providence locations, it’s the perfect place for a little treat.

To do: I love to check out all the amazing old college campuses in New England, and Brown University was the perfect place for my little guy to run around. If you’re looking for more kid-friendly fun, the Roger Williams Park Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in the country and has more than 150 animals from all over the world. I also loved the shopping in Providence, and Westminster Street has tons of local boutiques that are super cute.

Ogunquit, ME :: 75 miles from Boston

To eat: The best blueberry pancakes I’ve ever had were at the Greenery Cafe in Ogunquit. Go now for these delicious eats and other yummy brunch food. If you’re looking for more traditional Maine coastal seafood, there are tons of good options, like The Lobster Shack and Barnacle Billy’s.

To do: If you’re looking for beautiful beaches, Ogunquit is the place to go. Ogunquit Beach has over three miles of sandy beach that will provide plenty of fun for the family. I also loved walking the Marginal Way, which is a stroller-friendly pedestrian path that offers breathtaking views of the ocean.

Salem, MA :: 20 miles from Boston

To eat: I had so much fun eating delicious seafood on the scenic patio at Sea Level Oyster Bar. The warm lobster roll was delicious, and the gorgeous view of Salem Harbor made for a terrific lunch.

To do: I was a little hesitant to bring my 2-year-old to the Peabody Essex Museum, but I’m so glad I did. It’s a beautiful art museum that features really interesting Native American, Chinese, and American art. The “Wild Designs” exhibit was perfect for my little guy and had tons of hands-on activities for him to explore.

Newburyport, MA :: 50 miles from Boston

To eat: It’s hard for me to travel to any coastal New England town without eating seafood, and Newburyport was no exception! I ate lunch at Brine, which is a contemporary oyster bar with delicious seafood options.

To do: I loved strolling down State Street and checking out all the local Newburyport boutiques. Plum Island is one of the prettiest beaches I’ve seen in New England and is just a 10-minute drive from downtown Newburyport.

Looking for more day trip ideas from Boston? Check out these other posts from the Boston Moms Blog team!

7 Family Day Trips from Boston

Day Tripping Through New England

The Evolution of Bedtime Rituals (and Why It Matters)

By

Jenny Berk

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July 18, 2018

bedtime routine - Boston Moms Blog

I could hear my brother guffawing from the other room. I giggled from my own room in anticipation, because I was next. The loving, the mundane, the silly and yet completely customized bedtime routine my mom created for me and my brother was at once what we demanded from her but also what she longed for as well.

No one else in the world understood it. It became our family ritual and vernacular that only my brother and I shared with her. It started with a tickle, then an especially goofy raspberry in each of our ears, finishing with exactly two hugs and kisses while reciting, “Hug, kiss, hug, kiss.”

Many a mom blogger (including me) laments about the dreaded nighttime routine: The procrastination tactics (“You really need to pee again, Timmy?”), the endless bedtime stories and songs, and the antsiness of not knowing if an actual adult nighttime was going to occur that night before submitting to our fast and furious slumbers in our own or our child’s bed. No “Orange Is the New Black” for you tonight, tired mama!

There is even a viral video (and book) of a very subdued and sober-sounding Samuel L. Jackson spoofing on rhyming bedtime stories a la “Goodnight Moon” and “I Love You to the Moon and Back” called “Go the F**k to Sleep.” While controversial, and even shocking for some, there was a collective laugh-out-loud moment from moms all over the world when the book was published. Finally, we knew we were not alone in the frustrations of putting our children to bed.

From the moment our first daughter was born, my husband and I felt it was important to create rituals around certain activities, namely, the nightly bedtime routine. We read books to our babies nightly from infancy on, and we credit this with their love of reading and words. We laugh now at a video we once took of our then nighttime routine, which took roughly 90 minutes (!) and included five books, 10 songs, cradling, and swaddling. Even their devoted grandparents yawned while watching the playback of this and asked to fast-forward it.

Yes, it was that long and agonizing.

While our kids are now old enough to put themselves to bed (for the most part), we all take comfort in the vestiges of those once-beloved and reviled nighttime rituals.

One of our daughters still sleeps with her blankie from infancy and pulls on its ears as a way to self-soothe and fall asleep. (I’ve had to sew the ears back on several times)

The heart-warming song (for the 5 and under crowd), “You Are My Sunshine,” which we performed nightly for years, has now devolved into a snarky, dark, and even loud version that makes the girls giggle every time.

The cribs turned to toddler beds. The toddler beds turned into trundle beds. And the trundle beds turn into twins, then bunk beds, then queens.

The books evolve too. From board books to picture books to chapter books. From us reading to them to them reading to us — to them wanting to be alone reading on their own.

Everything is as it should be.

And as difficult as it’s been over the years to get our girls to bed, on their own, and in their own beds for the whole night, and even though the bedtime has become later and later, I know the routine matters.

In the same way I lovingly recall the safety, comfort, and consistency of my mom’s unique bedtime routine, I know I’m imparting a little piece of love for them each night that will help them feel secure and comforted as they drift into their nocturnal playdate in their dreams.

I’ve even shared and tried to reenact my mom’s routine onto them as of late, thereby imparting to them a piece of family history which, much like a cherished piece of jewelry or your bubbe’s famous chicken noodle soup, will forever be received and remembered as pure love.

This is why it matters, and this is why it’s worth it.

To the Moms of Kids With Physical Disabilities :: I See You

By

Leah Lynch

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July 17, 2018

One day, when I was picking up my 4-year-old daughter from preschool, she came running out the door exclaiming, “Mommy! I have a new friend in my class; she has purple walking sticks. It’s soooo cool.” I looked up to see a girl with crutches who looked like she might have cerebral palsy. I politely smiled and said, “Wow, that is really cool.” I learned later that week that my daughter and this girl had become best buddies. So, naturally, I introduced myself to the child’s mom, and we have become good friends too.

I have since learned that having a child with a physical disability is not easy and can be heartbreaking. I have also learned that moms of children with physical disabilities are the strongest, most patient, and most incredible women in the world. I could never properly empathize with these moms, but I can certainly sympathize. This is what I see:

Dear fellow mom,

I see you. I see you making your child walk in the rain, even though carrying her would be easier. You do this because you know this will stretch her muscles and make her stronger. You know she must learn to walk, despite this New England weather. You taught her to crawl before she could stand, stand before she could walk. You know she must learn to walk before she can run.

I see you. I see you giving her independence and space. I see you letting her fall so she can learn to pick herself up — and not just pick herself up physically, but emotionally as well. I see you brushing her legs off and telling her, “Oops, sometimes we fall down.” But I know your heart is heavy every time you do.

I see you. I see you watching and listening. You watch for the fall or an accident and you listen for a cry or protest. I am guessing you feel like you are never present or in the moment. You’re constantly waiting to help her and guide her. Parenting is essentially helping your child, but I know your version of “helping” is so different and more complex than mine.

I see you. I see you worrying. Will she be accepted by her peers? Will she be left out? Will her feelings get hurt if she is left behind? I see you worrying about the past. Did we make the right choices for her? I see you worrying about the present. Is she happy?

I want to tell you this: You are more. You are more patient, more resourceful, more brave, more strong, more consistent, and more proactive. You are, most of all, an incredible mother. You are dealing with issues most parents will never experience, and you are absolutely killing it! I admire, respect, and support you.

Every child matters. Your child matters. She will grow up to accomplish the most amazing things. People will doubt her, but you never will. May your strength become her strength. May your patience become her patience. May your fierce love for her become her passion.

Sincerely,

Your friend and fellow mom

The Travel Tip That Eased Worries

By

Megan Chen

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July 16, 2018

travel tip - Boston Moms Blog

As we started to plan for our first big family vacation, I thought I had it all together. We were flying south and renting a big beach house with several family members for a week. We figured out the logistics of getting to and from the airport, dealing with car seats, setting up a rental car that could accommodate three car seats, having cribs ready for us upon arrival, and the snacks. So many snacks. I had checklists. I did my shopping. And I read so many articles about how to keep kids entertained throughout a flight.

But there was one thing I hadn’t thought of.

I had talked to my kids — my 3-year-old son and 22-month-old twins — about the trip in fairly general terms and didn’t think too much of it. Then, one night as I was tucking my son in, he started asking questions about the trip, specifically the flight. He asked, “What if I don’t like it?” See, he is often anxious in new situations and takes awhile to warm up. There are times where he never fully warms up and just does not enjoy the experience. He also has a tendency to make up his mind beforehand how he is going to feel about a situation, and there is no changing his mind, even if the situation is better than he imagined. So the “What if I don’t like it?” question set off a big alarm in my head.

I imagined panic at 35,000 feet, with nowhere to go.

Then I remembered a tip his preschool teacher had given me when we shared his fear of unfamiliar situations. She suggested giving him a visual so he would know exactly what to expect. This could be in the form of looking at pictures online or printed out. I had tucked this tip in the back of my mind. The night my son expressed his uncertainty, I decided to give it a try.

I took to Google and went to work. First, I found photos of family members who were coming on the trip. We were staying with some relatives the kids see regularly, others they rarely see, and even a couple they had never met. I began using these photos to help my kids familiarize themselves with everyone coming.

Then I thought of the various parts of traveling that may be intimidating, such as the airport, security check, and the plane. I found stock photos of Logan airport and specifically sought out photos with lots of people so the kids would know to expect a crowd. I included a photo of the security checkpoint, and we talked about the various things that go on there. And I used several photos of the plane, inside and out, so we could talk about all things air travel. That included the fun stuff, like the TVs and snacks, but also things like keeping seat belts buckled and being prepared for a bumpy ride.

I added photos of the house where we would be staying (from the listing on the rental site), the aquarium we planned to go to, and the beach we would be visiting. I also printed a photo of our house to show we were coming home at the end of our vacation. (My son had asked a few times if we would stay there or come home to our house.)

Finally, I put the photos together in a Word file, printed them out, and stapled them into a little booklet. Each time we looked through the photos, I talked to my son about what to expect. Best of all, he was able to physically see it. I even caught him “reading” the picture book to his sisters.

Not only did this travel tip set his expectations, it got him really excited about the trip.

In the end, all three kids did amazingly well. There were no worries or meltdowns, and they truly enjoyed everything about the experience, from playing at the airport and flying on the plane to running around on the beach and spending quality time with family. Our travel experience was more carefree than I was expecting, and I believe our picture book really helped. Spending a few minutes downloading pictures and a few dollars having them printed out was certainly worth it!

Strolling for the Safety 1st RIVA Travel System

By

Emily Fahle

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July 1, 2018

We are so excited to partner with Safety 1st to show you the new RIVA travel system!

I have been in the market for a new travel stroller. I was not happy with our single jogger and wanted something more rugged than our umbrella stroller. As we are always on the go, I need a travel system that is functional and easy to use. I have a 5-year-old, a 3-year-old, and a baby, so I also need something that is light and easy to maneuver.

Enter the new RIVA travel system by Safety 1st! This is one of two brand new strollers Safety 1st is launching this year. It is available exclusively at select Walmart stores and on Walmart.com for $199. I was thrilled when I was asked to review this new travel system. I eagerly anticipated the huge box that greeted me at my doorstep one afternoon.

From my research, I learned that the RIVA is the first stroller made in the USA from a special blend of recycled materials, including recycled Safety 1st car seats. The RIVA stroller frame is made from a special co-polymer resin that consists of recycled polypropylene that was saved from the floors of other manufacturers. The child tray and parent cup holders are made from a resin using Safety 1st recycled car seats. Safety 1st also strives to use recycled and recyclable packaging materials on the RIVA travel system.

The stroller came assembled (bonus!), and there were easy-to-read directions for unfolding, folding, attaching the food tray, and taking off the canopy for cleaning purposes.

The box proclaims the Riva travel system as “lightweight” and able to “one hand lift to fold.” I can attest that these statements are absolutely true. The recycled composite resin frame is what keeps the stroller so light. I was able to carry it plus my infant daughter and a small lunch cooler down a flight of stairs to the car. It folds up incredibly compact and fit in my Highlander without issue. It actually takes up the same amount of trunk space as my umbrella stroller.

The stroller is very much a one-handed lift to fold. There is an easy-to-reach strap that you pull up on — and presto! The stroller folds up and locks into place in one motion. This is a terrific feature for a mama who is managing more than one child.

Another feature of the stroller I was particularly impressed with is the incline/recline strap. It is very straightforward and can also be done one-handed. All of my babies have liked to be basically straight up in their strollers, but in the past it has been difficult to get a tight fit on the strap. I also really love the storage basket underneath the seat. It is very roomy with enough space to fit my oversized diaper bag, three water canteens, and a snack cooler!

In line with the RIVA travel system’s special blend of recycled materials, Safety 1st has rolled out their #strollingforabetteramerica initiative. This special campaign dedicates manpower and materials to give facelifts to play parks across the United States.

We wanted to see this initiative in action, so I buckled my daughter in the American-made Safety 1st onBoard 35 FLX infant car seat. The bucket is deep, which seems to be extra cozy and provides side-impact protection for children 4-35 pounds. We traveled down to Foxborough to the Mill Street Playground to help out with sprucing up the park. There were over 50 Safety 1st team members painting the playhouse, spreading new sand and mulch, planting cheery flowers, and scrubbing the play equipment.

In the two weeks I have had the RIVA stroller, I have taken it strawberry picking, to the playground, on errands, and on the road for a walk. I’ve been impressed with the stroller’s ruggedness. It was able to roll easily over the grass and gravel farm road. The stroller was designed more for paved surfaces, but it stood up to the bumps and divots of a strawberry field. We have upcoming air travel, and I’m confident the RIVA stroller will be awesome throughout the airport. I love this stroller and enthusiastically recommend it as a lightweight, easy-to-maneuver, versatile stroller at a very comfortable price point.

Check out Safety 1st on:

The Getting-Out Guide :: Boston’s Best Events for Kids This July

By

Emily Fahle

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June 29, 2018

If you are looking for Boston events to keep your family entertained this July, we’ve got you covered! Our monthly events guides are on hand to be sure you don’t miss a thing happening around the Boston area. We know you are looking for ideas for family fun all the time. There are so many great activities going on in Boston this summer.

In addition to our Getting-Out Guide, be sure to check out our Guide to a Boston Summer and our 2018 Summer Bucket List for awesome ideas for summertime fun in Boston! Finally, check out our Fireworks Roundup for a list of Fourth of July celebrations!

We’ve also included links to area libraries and recurring events. This is, by no means, a comprehensive list. If you know of any fun family activities we missed, please let us know in the comments.

Oh, and be sure to join our Community & Conversation Group to meet other moms near you!

July 1–8

July 1–4 :: Boston Harborfest :: Boston :: This five-day event combines history and modern-day fun. On Sunday, July 1, head to Christopher Columbus Park trellis to enjoy the Art Festival, where artists will be selling their historical and maritime-themed artwork. Interactive art demonstrations will occur throughout the day, along with live performing arts. Also at Christopher Columbus Park will be the Chowderfest, where there will be samples of local restaurants’ chowder. Vote on your favorite and enjoy live music in Christopher Columbus Park.

July 3–4 :: Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular :: Boston :: The Boston Pops Fireworks Spectacular will take place at the Massachusetts Department of Conservation and Recreation’s (DCR) Hatch Memorial Shell on the Charles River Esplanade (concert from 8-10:30 p.m.; fireworks display from 10:30-11; the concert, without fireworks display, will also take place on July 3, starting at 8 p.m.).

July 4 :: Photo Scavenger Hunt :: Boston :: Celebrate Independence Day and race around Boston on an exciting photo scavenger hunt! Solve challenging clues and puzzles by taking pictures of historic sites on the Freedom Trail. Along the way, you’ll discover fascinating facts about Boston’s role in American history, look for gravesites of famous Revolutionaries, find the locations where groundbreaking events took place, and so much more. It’s a great family-friendly learning experience for all ages and a lot more fun than a traditional Freedom Trail walking tour! Advance registration required.

July 5 :: Birds of Prey :: Boston :: Head to Boston Harbor Islands Welcome Center (191W Atlantic Avenue) from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. to join a Mass Audubon bird specialist for a close-up look at live owls, falcons, and other birds who call New England home.

July 6 :: Rosalita’s Puppets: The Enchanted Castle :: Marshfield :: Join Fairy Godmother “Glitter” as she tells stories, sings songs, and teaches the crowd how to be knights, princesses, and princes. The show includes three short hand puppet stories. Meet a fairy puppet, a dragon puppet, and a unicorn puppet!

July 7 :: Chinatown Main Street Summer Festival :: Boston :: Chinatown Main Street’s 15th Annual Summer Festival will host performances on a grand stage in Chinatown Park.

July 7 :: Downtown Playdates Lego Challenge :: Boston :: Drop in for a LEGO challenge during the Downtown Playdates series using your imagination and an extensive collection of LEGO bricks. Each week participants will face a different design challenge, including creating the tallest tower, reimagining a Boston neighborhood, designing a new neighborhood, or picturing buildings resilient to sea level rise. Join BSA Space’s design team for a brick ton of fun while envisioning Boston’s future using your favorite design tool.

July 7–8 :: Boston Pizza Festival at City Hall Plaza :: Boston :: Boston’s expansive City Hall Plaza turns into a giant picnic ground when the Boston Pizza Festival returns, bringing all-you-can-eat pizza; entertainment, such as pizza tossing shows and live music; adult and other beverages; and games to this family-friendly celebration of summer. Tickets are $35 in advance or $45 the day of the festival.

July 8 :: Open Newbury Street :: Boston :: Newbury Street will become a pedestrian-only walkway, closing to vehicles to allow pedestrians the opportunity use the full width of the street. Newbury Street will be pedestrian-only from Arlington Street to Massachusetts Avenue.

July 9–15

July 10 :: Kids Yoga by KidPowerment Yoga :: Boston :: These innovative kids yoga classes, deeply rooted in the foundations of yoga, empower kids to have strong bodies, focused minds, and brave hearts. Head to Chestnut Hill from 3-5 p.m. for this free event.

July 13 :: Free Friday Flicks :: Boston :: Bring a blanket and perhaps a picnic to the Hatch Shell on Boston’s Esplanade, and get ready to enjoy family-friendly movies under the stars — a truly magical Boston summer experience! The July 13 showing is the Emoji movie. Movies begin at sundown (about 8:15 p.m.).

July 13 :: Heidi, Presented by the Kaleidoscope Children’s Theatre :: Beverly :: A wondrous tale of the charming Swiss miss who captures the hearts of everyone she meets, from her stern mountain-man of a grandfather to the nasty governess Miss Rottenmeier. She’s guaranteed to win your heart too! It’s a mountain of a musical that is fun for everyone!

July 14 :: WGBH FunFest :: Boston :: Come hang out with friends, family, and even a few of your favorite PBS kids characters at WGBH Studios in Brighton! There’s fun family music on stage and all the ice cream you can eat from a variety of local vendors. Did we also mention games, rides, and face painting?! Hours of fun out in the sun. Please register in advance.

July 14 :: ArtBeat 2018 :: Somerville :: ArtBeat is one of the area’s largest and most innovative arts festivals, with over a dozen bands, dance troupes, 75 craft vendors, food, and all-age activities. Head down to Davis Square for craft vendors, two stages of music, dance in the Somerville Theater, and a host of great interactive performances from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m.

July 14 :: RiverFest at DCR Neponset II Park :: Dorchester :: Celebrate the Neponset River and the beautiful parks and pedestrian paths along the shore, along with the natural salt marshes and wetlands that support more than 200 species of birds, fish, and other wildlife. Try out a canoe or kayak, for free, courtesy of PaddleBoston : Neponset River. There will also be music, food, children’s activities – and lots of fun and interesting people to talk to!

July 14 :: Downtown Playdates Lego Challenge :: Boston :: Drop in for a LEGO challenge during the Downtown Playdates series using your imagination and an extensive collection of LEGO bricks. Each week participants will face a different design challenge, including creating the tallest tower, reimagining a Boston neighborhood, designing a new neighborhood, or picturing buildings resilient to sea level rise. Join BSA Space’s design team for a brick ton of fun while envisioning Boston’s future using your favorite design tool.

July 16–22

July 17 :: Storytelling at Faneuil Hall Marketplace :: Boston :: Professional storytellers perform free shows that are kid-tested and parent-approved.

July 19–22 :: Needham Carnival :: Needham :: The Rotary Club of Needham is happy to bring back the Needham Carnival this year, with rides, games, prizes, and fun for all ages.

July 20 :: Free Friday Flicks:: Boston :: Bring a blanket and perhaps a picnic to the Hatch Shell on Boston’s Esplanade, and get ready to enjoy family-friendly movies under the stars — a truly magical Boston summer experience! The July 20 showing is Elf. Movies begin at sundown (about 8:15 p.m.).

July 20 :: Animal World at the Winslow House :: Marshfield :: Meet a motley collection from the animal kingdom as Animal World Experiences returns to the Winslow House. From the cute and furry to the gross and slimy, you never know who will show up!

July 20–22 :: Sand Sculpting Festival at Revere Beach :: Revere :: Fifteen renowned master sculptors from around the world work their magic with individual 12-ton allotments of sand. The sculptors compete for $14,000 in prize money, and the sculptures they create will amaze you with their detail and artistry. With music performances, a food truck festival, amusement rides, and crafts activities on site as well, you’ll find plenty of family entertainment — and don’t forget to bring your swimsuits, sunscreen, and towels for the beach!

July 21 :: Downtown Playdates Lego Challenge :: Boston :: Drop in for a LEGO challenge during the Downtown Playdates series using your imagination and an extensive collection of LEGO bricks. Each week participants will face a different design challenge, including creating the tallest tower, reimagining a Boston neighborhood, designing a new neighborhood, or picturing buildings resilient to sea level rise. Join BSA Space’s design team for a brick ton of fun while envisioning Boston’s future using your favorite design tool.

July 23–29

July 27 :: Free Friday Flicks:: Boston :: Bring a blanket and perhaps a picnic at the Hatch Shell on Boston’s Esplanade, and get ready to enjoy family-friendly movies under the stars — a truly magical Boston summer experience! The July 27 showing is Cars 3. Movies begin at sundown (about 8:15 p.m.).

July 27 :: Teddy Bear Picnic :: Marshfield :: It’s a colonial build-a-bear! Come celebrate our most popular children’s event. Children will make their own teddy bear to take home and keep forever! Games, tasty treats, and a celebration of summer. Registration required ($10/child).

July 27 :: Family Fun Friday :: Sandwich :: Enjoy a day at Heritage that features fun for the whole family, including a performance by Wayne Potash and the Music Fun Band, outdoor games, and family challenges. Free with museum admission.

July 28 :: Downtown Playdates Lego Challenge :: Boston :: Drop in for a LEGO challenge during the Downtown Playdates series using your imagination and an extensive collection of LEGO bricks. Each week participants will face a different design challenge, including creating the tallest tower, reimagining a Boston neighborhood, designing a new neighborhood, or picturing buildings resilient to sea level rise. Join BSA Space’s design team for a brick ton of fun while envisioning Boston’s future using your favorite design tool.

July 30–31

July 31 :: Storytelling at Faneuil Hall Marketplace :: Boston :: Professional storytellers perform free shows that are kid-tested and parent-approved. Find the fun on South Market Street outside Wagamama.

Library Storytimes

Ongoing Events

Baby-Friendly Monday Matinees at the Capitol Theatre :: Arlington :: Mondays, 12–2 p.m. :: The Capitol Theatre features a baby-friendly movie every Monday afternoon. Please check the theater’s Monday schedule to see what feature has been selected for parents and their infants.

Kids’ Art Club :: Dorchester :: Tuesdays, 4:30–5:30 p.m. :: This club has a new art project at the library every Tuesday. Projects include collage self-portraits and artist’s books. Art Club projects are showcased in rotating displays in the library children’s room.

Nature Time at Blue Hills Trailside Museum :: Milton :: Thursdays, 10:30–11:30 a.m. :: Introduce your preschool-aged child to nature with this fun program. Programs may feature a story, nature games, crafts, short walks outside, or meeting one of the museum’s animal residents. Meet, play, and learn with other area families. Each program runs for 45 minutes and meets most Thursdays. Museum admission is included with this program. Children must be accompanied by an adult.

JFN Free Friday Playgroup :: Natick :: Fridays, 9:30–11:30 a.m. :: Bring the little ones and come join other parents and caregivers in the Metrowest area for a fun-filled morning of play and socializing. There are plenty of songs, activities, toys, snacks, and laughter, as both the children and their grown-ups build connections and lasting friendships.

Backyard and Beyond: Forest Fridays :: Acton :: Fridays, 10–11 a.m. :: A great way for the whole family to enjoy time outdoors, the Forest Friday program is held outside, no matter the weather. Every Friday morning there is a nature-based activity based on the weather and season, either in Discovery Woods or out on the adjacent conservation land. All ages are welcome but activities are designed for 2- to 6-year-olds. Please note that the conservation land trails are not ADA or stroller accessible; please wear appropriate footwear and clothing.

StoryTime at the Curious George Store :: Cambridge :: Fridays, 10:30–11 a.m. :: Small children and their caregivers are welcome at these weekly storytimes, running throughout the year.

SaturPLAY :: Rose Kennedy Greenway – Chinatown :: Boston :: Select Saturdays, 1–3 p.m. :: The Asian Community Development Corporation’s youth program, A-VOYCE, hosts a placemaking event monthly to activate and bring children to The Greenway’s Mary Soo Hoo Park. Each month features a different theme with games, activities, crafts, and more. Youth volunteers are on hand to engage children. SaturPlay is subject to weather conditions.

Family Show :: Cambridge :: Saturdays, 4–5 p.m. :: Improv Boston’s improv and music extravaganza is completely made up on the spot every week based on your suggestion. No two shows are alike! Best of all, children who want to participate have opportunities to be on stage and take part in the fun! Our show is ideal for family outings, birthday parties, and school field trips. The Family Show is fun for the whole family and best for children ages 4-12.

5 Ways to Thrive This Summer With Your ADHD Child

By

Jalisa Harris

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June 28, 2018

Summer is in full force. School’s out, and parents and kids are full of excitement — and anxiety. Having a child who was diagnosed with ADHD at the ripe age of 3 means no stopping on a regular day. So for us, staying busy and finding ways to survive summer is essential. It helps keep us — parents and children — feeling sane. And who doesn’t want to feel like they’ve totally crushed the whole parenting-through-the-summer thing?

Now that my son is 5, we are accustomed to learning what works and what doesn’t. Last summer, we made a plan for how to keep him busy without feeling like we were ripping our hair out of our heads. Here are five sure ways to survive this summer with your ADHD child. We all know what the struggle consists of!

Take day trips

You don’t have to go on a full-on vacation to be able to enjoy summer. Last summer, we took a day trip every weekend. This is especially practical if you have no time during the week or the kids are in a summer program. And one perk of living in New England is that your day trip could even take you out of state! I’ve found that the more outdoor places we can visit, the better. The zoo is a great place to start — it’s outdoors, and you have lots of space to run around and get out that energy. The Highland Street Foundation offers so many great activities for fun free Fridays and even places you can receive a discount on.

Create a schedule

Whether you’re going on a day trip or sticking closer to home, create a schedule. Getting up early helps little ones to exert all their energy and get tired sooner. That means naptime — and a parenting win.

Bring snacks

For as much as my son eats daily, he is the equivalent of a twig. It is known that people who suffer from ADHD often experience some type of eating disorder later in life — if not handled early.

Visit a fruit farm

Speaking of snacking, heading straight to the farm is the best! Whether it’s blueberries, peaches, or apples, the kids are eating healthy foods by snacking effectively on the fruits they are picking. Lookout Farm in Natick is the farm of all farms. They have trains to get to and from the different fields (apples, peaches, berries). They have various farm stands for refreshments and even a few parks. Plus, when you’re counting fruit, naming colors, and identifying shapes, it’s an educational day.

Create small activities

I’ve learned a lot from my son’s IEP paraprofessionals since he started pre-K when he turned 3. They have given me so many tips on how to help him excel. One of the ways we bring this learning home is by creating small activities that combine learning with sensory play. For example, my son likes to draw his name in shaving cream, or use chalk paint, or create a beach bin full of sand.

These five tips have helped us so much. Parenting a busy 5-year-old is no easy task, but this summer we will be busy and having tons of fun!

FREE (or Cheap) Things to Do This Summer With Kids in MetroWest Boston

By

Jacquelyn Eckmann

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June 27, 2018

things to do this summer - Boston Moms Blog

While a Boston-area child’s summer may not technically begin until late June (thanks, snow days), the long-awaited reprieve from learning is now here, and children big and small have heard that final school bell and are ready for the days that will follow.

But after the honeymoon (filled with sleeping in, some much-needed downtime, and way too much Fortnite) is over, even the most creative child begins to mutter that dreaded summer phrase: “Mom, I’m bored!”

Now, if you are like me, you can’t exactly afford the daily fortune it takes to keep them entertained (or enrolled in a camp). So here are some excellent free (or extremely cheap) things to do in MetroWest Boston this summer.

Hike the local trails

Oak Hill in Littleton is a short hike that’s typically dry and has a great view at the top. The Acton Arboretum allows hikers to stroll along open meadows, woodland ponds, a glacial esker, and a bog. And Concord’s Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge is a beautiful way to experience New England’s vast open space.

Another favorite? The Thanksgiving Ground in Chelmsford. The hike is super short, stroller friendly, and culminates in an area filled with massive boulders for the littles to climb and explore. It takes less than 15 minutes to get to the rocks and is perfect for the non-hiker.

Peruse the farmers markets

Visit one of the area’s many local farmers markets to buy fresh produce or simply soak up the organic atmosphere! There are lots, but you can find the one nearest to you here.

Discover The Discovery Museum’s “Especially for Me” events

For parents of children with developmental challenges, The Discovery Museum’s “Especially for Me” events (in Acton) offer dedicated hours and free museum admission. These nights are designed for (but not limited to) families of children who have autism spectrum disorder, are deaf or hard of hearing, or have a visual impairment.

Have a “Free Fun Friday”

The Highland Street Foundation is once again offering Free Fun Fridays! This summer program features free admission to cultural venues around Massachusetts. Some of the MetroWest venues include The Discovery Museum, The Fruitlands Museum (in Harvard), and the Concord Museum. Also, if you want to drive a bit further west, the EcoTarium in Worcester is on the list, too.

Watch a performance

Free Fun for Kids performances will take place on Wednesdays and Thursdays in Lowell this summer, featuring crafts, a concert, and organic snacks. Some of the performances include an accidentally funny magician, an African dance and drum troupe, and a juggling, unicycling, accordion-playing clown.

Take advantage of the library

Visit your local library for free summer programs and events! Some pretty awesome ones in the area are the Maynard Public Library and Littleton’s Reuben Hoar Library, but you can find others around you here.

children's books - boston moms blog

Visit a farm

Located in Weston, Land’s Sake Farm is a nonprofit farm devoted to educating the public. The farm features hay rides, a farm stand, and pick-your-own fruits and vegetables.

Another favorite is Great Brook Farm State Park in Carlisle. There you’ll find a short little trail to a pretty pond and farm animals (it’s a working dairy farm). Bring quarters to buy feed for the goats, sheep, and llamas. Also, there’s homemade ice cream, which is always a win for me my kids. Finally, Chip-In farm in Bedford offers a petting zoo, fresh produce and eggs from their free-running hens, and a penny candy counter.

Live it up at Natick Nights

Natick Nights are held EVERY Thursday night in June and July, with themes like The Voice Competition and Christmas in July. These nights are sure to appeal to the kiddos.

Play in the water

Trying to stay cool? Head to the Concord Playground & Spray Fountain, the Philip J. Weihn Memorial Swimming Pool in Clinton, or any of the DCR’s swimming facilities — all free. Another idea? Visit Walden Pond State Reservation in Concord. Pack a picnic and go for a swim! (An $8 parking fee applies.)

Catch a flick

Regal Cinemas Summer Movie Express promotion offers $1 tickets for family-friendly flicks on Tuesday and Wednesday mornings — and Regal Solomon Pond Stadium 15 in Marlboro will be participating. Features include “The Lego Movie,” “Despicable Me 2,” “Paddington 2,” “Trolls,” and “Sing.”

summer movies in Boston - Boston Moms Blog

Go bowling

Free bowling, anyone? That’s right, Wamesit Lanes in Tewksbury is offering two free games (plus a $4 shoe rental) every day during the summer! You do have to register, so make sure to plan ahead!

Get steeped in history

You could head into Boston to learn some history lessons, or you could visit some of the many historical sites in MetroWest. One of my faves? Minuteman National Historical Park in Concord. Be sure to pick up a Junior Ranger booklet at either of the visitor centers, because kids who complete the booklet receive a Junior Ranger certificate and a special badge.

Scope out a sculpture

Fill your morning with art and play at deCordova Sculpture Park and Museum‘s 30 acres of sculpture art. Designated “Play in the Park” and “Makemobile” days through the summer offer play, experimentation, and engineering activities. Kids under 12 are always admitted free, and you can find discounted passes through local libraries for adult tickets.

Frolic at a festival

The 2018 Lowell Folk Festival is the perfect spot to enjoy great music while soaking up summer vibes and making memories.

Helping My Kids Reach Their Goals :: End-of-Year Wrap-Up

By

Timika Hopkins

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June 26, 2018

goals - Boston Moms Blog

I know the great pressure I put on myself as a teenager. I finished in the top of my class while managing a schedule that included sports, extracurricular activities, work, and family commitments, all while traveling over an hour a day to and from school each day. Today, things aren’t much different — I work and blog and podcast, I have three kids to teach, and I own a business. My overachiever ways are alive and well, and this, good or bad, affects my parenting style.

Now, before I lose any of you to gasps and eye rolls, I want to be clear that my kids are never treated as tiny adults. They live the ultimate child-appropriate lives — basketball in the driveway, family bike rides through the woods, and video games on weekends. My goal is to teach — not force — them how to mature gracefully, and also, how to achieve whatever they want to in life.

So, before the school year began in 2017, we called a Family Goals Meeting over pizza, fruit, and juice boxes. Here’s what happened:

The goal-setting session

The best way to approach a goal-setting session with your little ones is to meet first with the adults involved in supporting those goals. For us, this included my husband, but I could have easily included my parents as well. They are very involved with our children. My husband and I brainstormed some goal categories we wanted to frame our kids’ choices with. We narrowed it to academics and extracurriculars, and we decided the children would choose their goals and we would help develop those goals so they were measurable. We were not allowed to choose the goal for them.

When it came time to goal set, I reviewed what goals were (definition and example), we discussed which goals they’d achieved already (relatable content), and we pointed out examples of how I or their dad reached our own goals (case studies). We set the firm requirement of one academic and one extracurricular goal minimum, each, and we went to the whiteboard to hash out the actual goals.

Our fifth grader wanted to:

1. Make the basketball team and play as a starter.
2. Get perfect attendance.
3. Make the honor roll.

Our fourth grader wanted to:

1. Write two songs for the piano.
2. Get perfect attendance.
3. Earn great grades (satisfactory, meets expectations, weird stuff).
4. Learn violin.
5. Get one triple-double in each of her basketball games.

Our 3-year-old wanted to:

1. Go to the zoo.

Outcomes: Wins and fails

Fifth grader’s outcomes:

1. Award for perfect attendance since first grade.
2. Made the fifth-grade basketball team after two-day tryouts (#awesome).
3. Became the starting shooting guard.
4. Did receive the honor roll — but had a slight hiccup in the middle terms.

Fourth grader’s outcomes:

1. Wrote 2 short songs for the piano.
2. Missed perfect attendance this year for a trip to Harry Potter World (of course!).
3. Excellent report card
4. Played well in the violin recital AND piano recital (“No One” by Alicia Keys).
5. Had a few triple doubles in her basketball games — not all games.

3-year-old’s outcomes:

1. Would not, could not forget about the zoo. We went at least a dozen times this year.

A prize for hard work

We won’t allow ourselves to be all work and no play. We have planned a family cruise in celebration of birthdays, graduations, and an overall EXCELLENT and rewarding school year.

Why you should try this approach

This exercise is not about placing pressure on our children to succeed and overachieve. It is about coming together as a group and setting common focuses. It is about letting our children know they aren’t just going to school because they are mandated; they have control over what happens during their school year. They own the year and can affect all outcomes. This exercise is about learning what is important to our kids. Whether the importance lies in playing at the zoo or making the honor roll, these are the experiences they choose to shape their lives with. Therefore, these focus points become important to us. And as a family, working together and focusing together, we know we can always make any goal happen.

5 Reasons It’s Cool To Have Children Close In Age

By

Ranessa Doucet

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June 22, 2018

two children close in age sharing ice cream cones (having kids close together) — iStock

If you had asked me a few years ago if I would recommend having children close in age, my answer would have been a resounding, “No!” When my children were babies and toddlers, it was challenging, to say the least. Now my tune has drastically changed.

I didn’t plan to have my children 16 months apart. When my daughter was 7 months old, I wasn’t even close to being ready for another baby. It took me a long time to become pregnant with my first, and to say I was shocked the second time around is an understatement! I panicked! But now that my children are ages 6 and 7, I am grateful they are close in age. Here are five reasons I think having children close in age is cool.

You keep on rolling

We hadn’t yet packed away any baby stuff when my son was born. The bottles, swing, bouncy seat, and baby toys were all still out. (We did have to buy another crib because my daughter was still in hers.) I didn’t feel like I was starting over; I was merely continuing what I had been doing for the past 16 months.

There’s no jealousy

My daughter was still a baby when my son was born, and she was not the only child for very long. She didn’t have any jealousy or resentment toward him. The main thing we had to deal with was keeping a close eye on her because she wanted to hug him a bit too hard. She doesn’t remember a time without her brother in her life.

They have similar interests

One child is not too old or too young to do the things the other child wants to do. When they were younger, they both loved storytime at the library, tumble time at the YMCA, and taking a walk in the double stroller. They even napped at the same time for almost a year! Now they both love Storyland, playing baseball, and riding bikes. It’s so much easier to keep them both entertained when they are on similar levels.

One school drop-off

My children are only one grade apart. For five years I get to drop them off at one school. One drop-off and pick-up location is seriously convenient. They even have some of the same friends. (I’m guessing this may not be so cool with them when they are teenagers and want to date each other’s friends, but we’ll deal with that when the time comes.)

They are best friends

This is, by far, the best reason for having children close in age. If you ask either of them who their best friends are, they always mention each other. They each have one of their best friends to play with every day. They certainly fight, but they would be lost without each other. When I was putting my daughter to bed the other night, I asked her what she was grateful for. The first thing she said was “my brother.” That right there makes all the challenging toddler years worth it.

I know firsthand that we can’t always plan how far apart our children are, no matter how hard we try. I’m also sure there are a whole host of reasons why it’s great to have children far apart in age. This has been my personal experience, and I’m grateful it worked out the way it did. So, if you’re in the throes of raising two babies or toddlers, trust me — it will be worth it. Hang in there, mama!