Monday March 8, 2010

Today’s Jens List is sponsored by SWEETHARTS
Visit this wonderland of self-serve frozen yogurt, gelato, baked goods, candy & various other delights. Plus the fabulous party room is a GREAT place for all occasions.
SWEETHARTS is the realization & the lifelong dream of Melissa Joan Hart who went from playing kids on TV to raising kids in real life. Melissa Joan Hart’s known worldwide for her roles on Sabrina The Teenage Witch & recently Dancing with the Stars. 
13704 Ventura Blvd in Sherman Oaks
 (818) 788-5004
 
Today in History
* President Ronald Reagan calls the USSR an “Evil Empire” (1983)
* Baseball great Joe DiMaggio dies (1999)
* International (Working) Women’s Day
International Women’s Day is sponsored worldwide by the United Nations. The roots of this    celebration goes back to the late 1800’s to early 1900s. It grew from women’s socialist movements and  early women’s trade union groups. The first International Women’s Day was held March 19, 1911. Women socialists and trade unions held an earlier Women’s Day on the last Sunday in February, 1908. The event grew from there and has been celebrated annually since. The focus is upon women workers, and advancing women’s rights in the workforce, politics and society.
 
 
PlayandGrow Smart-er Tips
Nancy Pyne-Hapke, author of Play and Grow Smart, A Guide Supporting Brain Development, Birth through Five, has been giving tips to aid your child’s optimum skill development through proactive neuroscience-based activities every Monday.  These ideas come from scholarly sources to personal interviews, from the internet to periodicals to books. 
DEVELOPMENTAL LEARNING TOOLS (toys and other objects) for Newborns to 3-month-olds
•  BEFORE BABY learns to grasp objects or sit up, she will most appreciate things she can look at and listen to.
•  VISION will be fuzzy at first, seeing only light, shapes and movement, and she will fix on things that are about 8” to 14” from her eyes.
•  CONTINUING from before she was born, she delights in the pitch, rhythm and tones of Mom’s voice.
•  DAWN TO the human face, Baby will recognize Mom’s face at about 1 mo.  In the first 9 wks, she will enjoy large pictures of faces as well as items with black/white designs.  Thereafter, high contrast patterns and bright colors captivate her because they’re easiest to see.
•  OBJECTS THAT move slowly and produce a gentle sound are far more interesting than those that are fixed and silent.
•  WHEN BABY makes accidental movements that cause a bell to jingle, a toy to squeak or beads to tinkle, she’s creating repetition that teaches her that she’s making those sounds – cause and effect, a cognitive awareness.
•  Build your “LEARNING LIBRARY” by choosing developmental learning tools, designed to “grow” as children grow, that have features and developmental skill elements appealing to different ages simultaneously, all in 1 toy.  This way, Baby learns developmentally at 3 months with an item, and at 2 years, for example, she’s ready for different features of the same toy.
Consider the following Developmental Learning Tools options (developmental skills):
•  SENSORY toys – soft textures, bright colors, things that crinkle, tweet, rattle, squeak (tactile, gross motor, visual, auditory)
•  SOCK rattles – bright w/ sewn-in noises for left/right feet; cause/effect concept (tactile, gross motor, visual, auditory, thinking/learning)
•  ACTIV. PANEL crib bumper – high contrast images (1st 8 wks), bright multi-sensory activities (tactile, visual, auditory, thinking/learng)
•  TAPE PLAYER or music box – to sooth and entertain; rhythms/music develop spatial skills (social/emotional, auditory, math/logic)
•  MOBILE – high contrast colors, hang to Baby’s visual right side, 14” from eyes, out of reach (social/emotional, visual, auditory)
•  ACTIVITY RINGS – use now for connecting teethers and rattles to high chair, stroller, car seat, link across the top of the crib/hang things down to bat at and watch; later for counting, sorting, matching (tactile, visual, auditory, thinking/learning)
•  UNBREAKABLE mirror – attached to side of crib, hanging near a changing table, on rattles/cloth books (soc/emot, visual, auditory)
Next edition – “Developmental Learning Tools for 3-mo- to 6-mo-olds” 
Any ?’s – email Nancy Pyne-Hapke at msmarm@roadrunner.com
 
 
YMCA Preschool Health Expo–Fun, Tour & Essential Info Sat. March 20
Saturday, March 20, Moms and Dads can get tips on dental care for kids, pediatric health, holistic nutrition and other essential childrearing information, while kids have fun at a puppet show, arts & crafts table, obstacle course, face painting and more! It’s part of a free, Preschool Health Expo and open house held by North Valley Family YMCA (www.ymcala.org/nv) at two locations:
• 10 a.m. – noon–YMCA Preschool Learning Center, (for children 2 to 5 years-old), 15950 Chatsworth St., Granada Hills
• 1 p.m. – 3 p.m.–YMCA Infant & Preschool Center, (children 6 weeks to 5 years-old), 11630 Indian Hills Rd., Mission Hills
Speakers include holistic nutritionist Karen Roth, MS NC who will tell parents “How to Keep Your Kids out of the Doctor’s Office.” Pediatrician Janesfri De Silva will focus on “Fighting Common Childhood Illnesses.” Meanwhile dentists from Blooming Smiles, a Northridge pediatric dental service and Providence Holy Cross Medical Center will provide valuable information. Other San Fernando Valley organizations will participate. The event is an opportunity to tour both YMCA preschools and obtain enrollment information. YMCA preschools follow a curriculum (HighScope) specifically designed to give children experience in decision-making and working with others. The focus on character development, science exploration, multi-cultural experiences and family events readies children for Kindergarten and success in elementary school. North Valley Family YMCA offers health and fitness programs at its main facility at 11336 Corbin Ave. in Northridge. As a nonprofit serving the San Fernando Valley, it also provides essential community services, including youth sports, physical education instruction at 26 grade schools and camping scholarships. The two preschools are part of the childcare program offered before- and after-school at 13 elementary schools and one middle school. For more information, call North Valley Family YMCA (818) 368-3231.
 
 
LA Perks Pass gives you EXCLUSIVE discounts
Discounts To Burke Williams Spa, Over 50 Of LA’s Top Restaurants, & Family Fun For JensList Members at Los Angeles’ most popular dining, entertainment and cultural arts venues. It was created by a collective of LA’s five star hotel concierges and quietly used exclusively for their VIP guests. It is now being made available on a limited basis to LA locals.
“Instead of an entertainment book with Applebee’s & Taco Bell coupons our goal was to provide our VIP guests with LA’s premier restaurants, spas & family fun” Steve LeRoy, Former President Of Los Angeles Concierge Association
All Jen’s List Members Get 10% Off The 2010 LA PERKS PASS! Sample Of Premium Perks include:
Burke Williams 20% Off Anytime
LA’s Best Reviewed Restaurants Up To 25% Off – The Lobster, The Foundry, Lago, Morels, Citizen Smith, Vinoteque, Geisha House & More!
Free Parking & Store Discounts At The Grove & Americana
Universal Studios – Save Up To $32 On Tickets
Knott’s Berry Farm – Save Up To $72 On Tickets
LA Zoo, California Science Museum & Aquarium discount
Big Savings – Average Family Can Easily Save Hundreds In A Year
Best Value – Pass Is Good For Up To 4 People & Includes The “Concierges Best Of LA Guidebook”
Easy To Use – Simply Show Card To save
ARE YOU FUNDRAISING?  –  If You Are Looking For A Great Way To Fundraise They Can Help – They Are Currently Helping The LA Opera As Well As Some Private Schools. Contact us at fundraise@laperks.com
CLICK HERE TO GET YOUR 2010 PERKS PASS  – Use Code JEN
 
 
Kids-grab your parents…Laughing Pizza is coming to town!
Sunday, March 21st at 12:00 Noon as Laughing Pizza is coming to The Canyon Club in Agoura Hills!! 
Look at the massive price difference of purchasing tickets in advance!!!
$15 Children, $20 Adults ($7.50 children, $10.00 adults with jenslist discount!)
Day of show: $19.50 Children, $28.50 Adults
Go to www.canyonclub.net to purchase tickets, ENTER “jenslist” for password/code to receive 50% off ticket price!!!! 
Laughing Pizza is a real family band – Mom, Dad and 14 year old daughter that make original pop music for kids, parents and loved ones alike. Their music videos are seen daily on public television stations by millions across the country.  Their live performances are energetic, interactive, dance-filled shows that get kids (and parents!) up and moving. They have created a loyal following across the country – and now you have a chance to experience it yourself!  www.laughingpizza.com
Full kids menu including pizza, chicken nuggets, sliders, mac & cheese.  Free kids meal with each paying adult meal. 
 
 
DIVAS & DUDES CHILDREN’S BOUTIQUE
They are trying to make room for their adorable spring inventory.  Save 30% off all fall merchandise and 65% off clearance items.  Find wonderful baby shower gifts, uniques birthday presents and hip, cool clothes for your infant to tween. They offer complimentary gift wrapping!  Mention Jen’s List and save an additional 10% on your entire purchase through 3/14 (excluding clearance items).
4881 Topanga Canyon Blvd
(818)704-0100
 
 
Responsible and Talented hard worker seeking full time employment
My step-sister Mary is looking for full time work in the South Bay or LA with a company that will provide an opportunity for longevity(no multi-level marketing).  Mary has 20 years of customer service and advanced computer experience (Mac & PC), 5 years of sales and management experience and a Multiple Subject teaching credential with 2 years of classroom experience.  She is a quick learner, adaptable, dependable and goal oriented.  Can work alone or well with others and will do whatever it takes to get the job done. Email mrsmarysramek@aol.com. Thank you, Jen Levinson
 
SportsBaby
The “must have” carrier for active moms and dads who value quality, comfort, and living life on-the-go.  It’s the new “jogging stroller” of baby carriers and will change the way you interact and get fit with your infant.  Take baby in the pool, to the beach, in the rain and snow, camping and hiking, for a power walk around the block.  Or just down the street to the grocery store. That’s all there is to it — IT is the answer to what all parents everywhere have been waiting and hoping for!  Designed with active moms and dads in mind. 15% off – Use coupon code BNB09.  Three designer styles for Spring.
http://www.onboardoutfitters.com/Product.html
 
 
The Infantile Scoliosis Outreach Program (ISOP)
Established in 2003 in Denver, Colorado. It was created by a mother who was searching for a more gentle, non surgical alternative method of care to treat her young daughter with progressive infantile scoliosis.
http://www.infantilescoliosis.org/stories.html
 
 
Don’t “Passover” the opportunity to have a StarMitzvah on your seder!
These beautiful, handcrafted wood Star of David’s come in 2 sizes and is designed to fold for easy storage. Add a meaningful & symbolic touch to your seder table or home. Instead of your normal floral arrangement wow your guests with a TableTop StarMitzvah surrounded by votive candles as a beautiful centerpiece. Mention Jen’s list and receive a 20% discount.
http://www.starmitzvahs.com
 
 
PARENTS OF CHILDREN IN SPECIAL EDUCATION
DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT YOUR CHILD’S INDIVIDUALIZED EDCUATION PROGRAM (IEP)? DO YOU UNDERSTAND YOUR CHILD’S GOALS AND OBJECTIVES? DO YOU HAVE QUESTIONS ABOUT THE INDIVIDUALS WITH DISABILITIES EDUCATION ACT?
AN ATTORNEY AND AN ADVOCATE WILL ANSWER YOUR QUESTIONS
JOIN THIS FREE WORKSHOP SPONSORED BY: UNITED CEREBRAL PALSY
MARCH 10, 2010FROM 7:00-9:00 P.M.
UNITED CEREBRAL PALSY
6430 INDEPENDENCE AVENUE IN WOODLAND HILLS, CALIFORNIA 91367
PLEASE R.S.V.P. (818) 222-8118
Or email Dina @ specialkidslaw@gmail.com
www.kenproject.com
 
 
Some of the CUTEST T-shirts I have EVER seen!
http://paperlili.com/index.php
 
 
THIRD ANNUAL SCHOOL & FAMILY PARTNERSHIP CONFERENCE
Los Angeles Unified School District
Local District 1
KEYNOTE SPEAKER – Gerald Newmark, Ph.D.
“How to Raise Emotionally Healthy Children
Saturday, March 20th from 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
7:30 a.m. – 8:30 a.m. Registration/Exhibits
Sutter Middle School
7330 Winnetka Avenue in Winnetka, CA 91306
Intersection of Sherman Way and Winnetka Ave. North on Winnetka Ave. one block
Translation will be provided – Childcare will not be available
For additional information contact: Rose Avetisyan @ (818) 654 – 3617
 
 
CDI’s Spring Break Camps  – March 29– April 2
Child Development Institute in Woodland Hills, California
Under the Sea Ages: 4-6
Children explore the world under the sea, practicing observational skills, familiarity of fish and mammals. Curriculum will foster com-munication and social skills using hands on approach and many sensory experiences.
M-F 12:30-2:30 $175
Game Play Ages: 5-7
Kids will have fun learning the basics of different sports and playing outdoor games. Games include relays, tag games, obstacle course and more. Emphasis on gross motor skills, cooperation, coordina-tion, problem solving and communication.
M-F 11am-1pm $125
Cooking Camp Ages 4-6
Concepts about food are presented through literature, music and so-cial games. Being a part of the cooking experience, children will feel success and want to try their very own creations. Food will be sea-sonal, fresh and healthy.
M-F 10:30 –12:30 $200
To sign up contact: Megan Lange at (818) 888-4559 or Email: mlange@childdevelopmentinstitute.org
Space is limited. Reserve early. Checks can be made payable to: Child Development Institute. Visa, MasterCard, American Express accepted. All cancellations must be made 48hrs prior to class start to receive full refund
www.childdevelopmentinstitute.org
 
 
“DEALING WITH REGIONAL CENTER ISSUES IN DIFFICULT TIMES”
Presented by John Steinreich, Operations Manager at Wellspring behavior agency and formerly lead supervisor of the school aged department At North Los Angeles County Regional Center
SPONSORED BY: UNITED CEREBRAL PALSY
MARCH 24, 2010 FROM 7:00-9:00 P.M.
UNITED CEREBRAL PALSY
6430 INDEPENDENCE AVENUE IN WOODLAND HILLS, CALIFORNIA 91367
PLEASE R.S.V.P. (818) 222-8118 or specialkidslaw@gmail.com
 
 
The Dry Bar
A brand new salon off San Vicente in Brentwood that specializes in blow out only (no cuts or colors).   The salon has a variety of inspired blow out options whether you’re going for straight hair, wavy hair or something in between.  And it doesn’t hurt that you can enjoy a cocktail right in the comfort of your salon chair. The salon only uses Love Peace Planet, a hair care line that is free of parabens, laurel and laureth sulfates and packs other eco-goodies. At $35, these blowouts are an affordable treat.  Membership options with discounts are available too for the frequent blow out kind of gal.
11677 San Vicente Blvd.  Los Angeles, CA 90049 
www.thedrybar.com
310-442-6084
 
 
The Source Radio
A Hip-Hop station programmed by the tastemakers at The Source and powered by Slacker Personal Radio. The station will provide listeners with 20 years of hip hop from legends like Run-D.M.C. to today’s hit makers including Lil’ Wayne and Jay-Z. The station is available everywhere Slacker is including BlackBerrys, Palm smartphones, Android smartphones, iPhones, or on the web at Slacker.com or TheSource.com.
http://www.Slacker.com/TheSource
 
CHI NAIL SALON
The chi – nail bar & organic spa is the premiere full service nail salon in Beverly Hills. They provide meaningful treatments that provide real benefits to the clients using only 100% natural ingredients and organic products. They implement the most current beauty techniques, yet ancient chi remedies inspire our treatments. Every treatment is individually blended utilizing organic and only natural products that harness the botanical and life-giving energy of plants and the sea. They pride themselves on providing customers with fabulously indulgent nail care while maintaining the highest level of cleanliness and sterilization available today.
www.chi-nailbar.com
 
 
Yehudis Schoen Photography
818-749-2456
Children, Portraits, Events, Sports, Family, Bar/Bat Mitzvah.
Capturing Your Natural Smile
Photo Books, Montages and on the spot printing for any event.
 
 
Monkeybar Buddies
Girls can wear their dresses and skirts worry free when they’re hanging around upside down in Monkeybar Buddies. The ultimate in comfort, they were created not to bunch, stick to your dresses, or look bulky under skirts. They are also great under athletic shorts or over dance leotards for an extra layer.
http://www.monkeybarbuddies.com
 
 
EXCLUSIVE MASSAGE TREATMENTS IN YOUR HOME
Kellie Smith, choice Massage Therapist of celebrities, pro atheletes, VIP’s and the like is now accepting new clients!  Enjoy a luxurious spa experience in the comfort of your own home.  Peaceful music, soft linens, organic aromatherapy, an elegant touch and advanced techniques combine to offer you an unparalleled experience that will leave you spoiled, relaxed and revitalized.  Call (818) 915-5355 or email KellieSmithLMT@yahoo.com
 
 
Affordable Organizing Help is Here!
A teenager who loves cleaning her room and helping friends sort through their closets? Sounds too good to be true, but Hollis Antler, a meticulous, enterprising high school senior, is ready to help you tackle organizing tasks large or small. Jen’s List mom Vanessa Canley has tutored Hollis for 3 years, and can vouch for Hollis’ responsibility and efficiency. Contact Hollis via email at antler.hollis@yahoo.com
 
 
Next Direct Children’s Model Competition 2010 is looking for talent!
Next Direct, the most loved children’s clothing brand in Britain, is now launching in the U.S. and looking for new modeling talent. Your child could be the U.S. face of the brand, win a $100,000 scholarship and win a year’s modeling contract with Wilhelmina Models! The competition is open to all U.S. resident children aged 4 to 7 years old. All you have to do is upload your child’s photo to Next Direct’s Facebook page at http://tinyurl.com/yj2bqtb before 7 a.m. EST on March 15, 2010.
 
 
Project SAFE invites you to a FREE Workshop on Nonviolent Parenting
With Ruth Beaglehole, M.A.
Participants will be able to:
• Learn of the Center For Nonviolent Education and Parenting’s (CNVEP) model while comparing and contrasting belief
systems relating to parenting.
• Discuss how attachment theory and neuroscience support the theory and practice of Nonviolent Parening.
• Learn Nonviolent Parenting principles you can apply to concrete parenting questions, concerns, and circumstances.
• Learn specific practices that embody the Nonviolent Parenting model
• Identify the barriers and challenges to implementing and practicing the Nonviolent Parenting model
Wednesday, April 14, 2010 At The Help Group from 9:00 a.m.— 4:00 p.m.
13130 Burbank Blvd *CEUs will be provided Sherman Oaks, Ca 91401
Continental Breakfast Provided. 1-day Parking Pass for Valley College across the street will be given by Parking Attendant at The Help Group Parking Lot. Please email yguerra@thehelpgroup.org for a registration form by April 2, 2010
For Questions call Yamilet at (818) 267-2676
 
 
ISR -AQUATIC SELF-RESCUE FOR CHILDREN
Do you have a child between six months and six years of age? Are you concerned about the safety of your child in or around water?
* Infant Swimming Resource (ISR), a nationally recognized program, is a drowning prevention strategy
* ISR teaches children how to handle themselves in the water before they are encouraged to play in it.
* Infants (6 months to 13 months old) will learn to hold their breath underwater, roll on their back and float unassisted.
* Children ( 13 months to 6 years old) will learn the following sequence: how to hold their breath underwater; swim with their head down and eyes open; roll onto their back to float, rest, and breath; and roll back over to resume swimming until they reach the pool edge or steps.  This sequence can be repeated as many times as necessary to get to safety.
* Your child needs these self rescue and survival skills in order to have a chance of surviving an accidental fall into any water.
* Instruction is one -on -one, child-paced and geared to your child’s individual needs and abilities
Certified ISR Instructors at the following locations:
WOODLAND HILLS    (April through September)
EAGLE ROCK            (June / July only – spaces limited)
PACIFIC PALISADES  (August only – spaces limited) 
Contact Jessica Hart: j.hart@infantswim.com    
CHATSWORTH       
Contact Lacey Withers: l.withers@infantswim.com
You can read the full ISR story, with pictures and video clips of actual lessons and testimonials from families who have already benefited from the ISR experience, at www.infantswim.com
 
 
5 one-hour long massage gift certificates for $200
Calabasas Tennis & Swim Center – paid $350
Call Tracey at (818) 720-4211
 
 
5 Stay Home Moms Needed To Lose Weight
This new Tarzana Bootcamp, M-W-F 9am and 7:30pm, is looking for 5 moms that need to lose 10-45 lbs of unwanted fat. This is no typical class, its indoors, it allows all level of fitness to take action, it provides easy & simple meal plans and best of all its design to tone & firm woman’s areas (butt, belly, lose arms). The regular price of the class is $249 but he is offering it for free to the first 3 callers and $99 for the last 2. Call 8183142775
 
 
Children’s Theater – “A Faery Hunt” is Now Playing..
Winner of the 2009 Nickelodean’s Award for “Best Children’s Theater in Los Angeles,” the critically acclaimed “A Faery Hunt” continues creating Faeryland right in the center of Los Angeles. Shows in March are March 6 in O’Melveny Park; GH; March 13 at Greystone Manor, BH; March 21 in Corriganville Park, SM; and March 27 in Griffith Park, LA. Ticket are $10-$15. Showtime 10:30 a.m. Call 818-324-6802 for reservations or reservations@afaeryhunt.com
 
 
Notary Publics – Available for your Notarial Needs
Do you need to find a Notary Public in the West Hills area? Please contact Darcy Brody for notarization services at (818) 888-4084.
AND
Traveling Notary/ Contract Loan Processing Fast and Accurate. Licensed , Experienced and Punctual. Call Michael 818 773 8378
 
 
Is There a Little Sweet Pea in Your Life?
Imagine your child’s joy upon hearing his or her own name sung in six adorable, original songs! Listen online at www.adashofyou.com
 
 
VACATION RENTAL AT SILVERSTRAND (OXNARD)
Quaint Spanish-style home available for vacation rental.  The home is located in Silverstand, a beach near Oxnard.  The area is quiet and laid back. It rarely gets crowded, even on holidays.  The house is  small and charming. It is about 3 houses in from the beach. It has 2 bedrooms (sleeps 5 comfortably) and 1 bath and is fully equipped. The yard is completely fenced in. So, your little ones will be safe. Well-behaved dogs are allowed. Some weeks are still available. More details at http://www.vrbo.com/109522 Or contact the owner directly at sandeeandtroy@yahoo.com.Make sure to let the owner know you are a member of Jen’s List and receive a $100 discount for weekly rentals.
 
 
With Summer only 3 Months Away, Now is the Time to Get in Shape
From now until June, the Pilates Project is offering a great deals on private Pilates sessions.
Intro package: $99 (regularly priced at $150)
Single session: $50 (regularly priced at $75)
Series of 10: $500 (regularly priced at $700)
Book an appointment before the end of March and enjoy these discounted rates!
Visit www.thepilatesproject.com or email at thepilatesproject@gmail.com for more information
 
 
Beverly Hills Salon Stations Available for Stylists and Manicurist
Rent or Commission.  Set your own hours.  Ample City Parking.  Great location!  Looking for self-motivated, reliable professional and TEAM PLAYERS.  For more details and appointment contact MARCIE K. @ 818/388-5194.
 
 
New Bollywood Dance Classes Being Offered
Studio in the San Fernando Valley offering classes for girls ages 3 and up. This fun class promotes exercise while teaching Indian dance and music. Come try it out! First class FREE!!! Locations: Sherman Oaks and Chatsworth please email bollywooddanceclass@yahoo.com for more information and to reserve your spot TODAY!!
 
 
Need a Plumber?
Silverberg Plumbing – Call Mike Silverberg For all of your plumbing needs!.
(818) 903-0525 or (818) 986-7130
 
CARS FOR SALE
Mercedes C300 for sale2008 model with all the bells and whistles Bluetooth, sunroof, etc.  Only 5600 miles on it.  One owner.  It’s a slate grey metallic color with black leather interior.  Please contact Stephanie Eliassian for more info and photos at stephlev@msn.com
AND
2007 Lexus GX470 – GORGEOUS!!! FULLY loaded! Low miles – 35,500. Well maintained , Navigation system, back-up camera, DVD player w/ headphones, multi cd player, IPOD connection, blue tooth, heated seats, chrome wheels, spoiler, 3rd row seats. Drives beautifully. Black ext/tan int. Excellent condition. $36,750 OBO – great price for this vehicle! Email vetski@sbcglobal.net or call (818) 399-6700 for more info.