Monday December 27, 2010

Today in History
– Radio City Music Hall in New York City opens. (1932)
– National Fruitcake Day
– It’s about time week
– Make cut out snowflakes day
http://www.kids-list.com/Blog.aspx?blog=271

Play and Grow 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. 
“SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL” DEVELOPMENTAL SKILL DEFINITION: bonding, building relationships, appreciating differences, self-esteem, self-expression, responsibility, self-reliance, resourcefulness.
THE CRITICAL WINDOW during which the circuits of the brain are being most heavily wired for “SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL: EMPATHY, ENVY” development is about 2 years – 9 years.  The more opportunity children have for positive social-emotional experiences during this critical period, the more efficiently their brains will work over the long run.
More SOCIAL/EMOTIONAL: EMPATHY, ENVY tidbits:
FROM 5 YEARS, Preschooler
· understands and enjoys both giving and receiving.
· understands relationships among people, and similarities and differences in other families.
· plays board games and card games cooperatively with others, taking turns and following rules.  She is capable of sharing and taking turns, but doesn’t always want to.
· notices when another child is angry or sad, and tends to be more sensitive to the needs and feelings of others.
· feels responsibility, guilt, and pride in accomplishment.
· expresses anger and jealousy physically.
· is sometimes critical of other children and embarrassed by his own mistakes.
· likes to feel grown up and may boast about herself to younger, less capable children.
· becomes competitive and likes to test his muscular strength and motor skills, but he’s not ready emotionally for competition.
Next week – “Social/Emotional: Empathy, Envy, Pt. 5”    
Any ?s – msmarm@roadrunner.com

Beth Hillel Day School
A community Jewish Day School affiliated with the Reform Movement, (transitional kindergarten through Grade 6), focuses on individual learners and offers an experience rich in critical thinking, hands-on learning and creative problem solving. BHDS has small class sizes and no budget cuts. The academic program includes Singapore Math, Foss Science, Readers and Writers Workshop, Immersion Hebrew, Art, Physical Education and Music. After school enrichment programs include instrumental music, drama and fine art. The administrators and classroom teachers are experienced educators with distinguished backgrounds. Parents and children have a strong sense of community in which you and your child will be known, supported and valued. If you would like more information, or wish to schedule a tour, please contact Betsy Abramsohn at 818-763-9148 ext. 144 or babramsohn@tbhla.org.
www.tbhla.org

Are you a mom in the Los Angeles area with kids out of control?
Do you need super advice from Super Nanny Jo Frost? Help from Jo Frost may be on the way. “The Talk” would like to give you the opportunity to ask “Super Nanny” star Jo Frost some questions, and get her advice. If you or someone you know has an out of control kids please respond ASAP to take part in the LIVE taping on Thursday, January 13th.  Email beachn9@aol.com your entire story & a phone number.

On DVD tomorrow, Dec. 28th
Get ready for a firetruck-load of thrilling, high stakes adventure with everyone’s favorite flame-fighting hero, Fireman Sam™ and his trusty fire brigade, in the all-new CG animated Fireman Sam: Ready for Action on DVD, Digital Download and On Demand, from Lionsgate and HIT Entertainment. This action-packed tale helps future firefighters learn the importance of fire safety, avoiding accidents and following directions.  
http://www.firemansamonline.com/usa/
AND
Arrrrrrr you ready for a romping new building adventure? Join Bob the Builder™ and his Can-Do Crew as they embark on a fun pirate movie adventure full of exciting building and mystery in the all-new CG animated Bob the Builder: The Golden Hammer – The Movie.  The movie is available on DVD, Digital Download and On Demand December 28, 2010 from Lionsgate and HIT Entertainment. While installing new pillars at the local museum, Spud and Scrambler learn of the Pirate Brickbeard’s Golden Hammer and team up to find the treasure to present it to Bob as a gift.  As Bob lends a helping hand to construction projects around the town, Spud and Scrambler use the power of positive thinking, teamwork and problem-solving to get the job done and solve the mystery surrounding the legend of the Golden Hammer! Bob the Builder has paired with another building icon – LEGOLAND® California – to promote the DVD premiere movie.  As part of a national promotion with LEGOLAND, each Bob the Builder: The Golden Hammer DVD includes a coupon good for a free child ticket with paid adult ticket to LEGOLAND California and SEA LIFE™ Carlsbad Aquarium.  LEGOLAND also features a Bob the Builder 4-D feature in the theme park. The DVD will be included in the nationwide LEGOLAND E-blast in November as well. 
http://www.bobthebuilder.com/usa/

Nominate an Amazing Person in Your Life
Tell the Ellen DeGenerous show all about the most deserving person you know, and how Ellen can help rock their world. Maybe it’s someone who has changed your community for the better, a family member who always puts your needs before their own or even a teacher who goes above and beyond with your kids.
http://ellen.warnerbros.com/show/respond/?PlugID=433

Doctor-tested, mommy-approved hand washing tips
http://forums.webmd.com/3/parenting-exchange/

Manhattan Beach Momma
A creative outlet for a former (and recovering) TV producer, who loves to read and cook. She shares information about products &  local businesses that are of interest to families in the South Bay. As owner of Fresh Brothers Pizza, she will follow one important rule of thumb – if she has nothing nice to say, she won’t say it all.
http://manhattanbeachmomma.wordpress.com/

Good bets for gift houseplants
Special focus on plants that survive in a low-light home or for winter giving.
http://blog.oregonlive.com/homesandgardens/2010/12/

Jewelry Design Classes
Great for Girls Night Out, birthday parties or private lessons. You will create masterpieces in just one workshop! Special rates for Jen’s List! They offer classes/parties for the following:
Jewelry Basics – Adult
Jewelry Basics – Children
Jewelry Design – Adult
Jewelry Design – Children
Rates are $45 for adults, $35 for kids – plus supplies. Contact fancyart@yahoo.com to sign up for a class. They run weekly – year round.
www.fancyartdesigns.com

SPEND NEW YEARS IN MAMMOTH!
One bedroom suite at the Westin Monache Resort in Mammoth!
Avail for 2 nights; Dec 31st-Jan 2nd
Dog Friendly Room! Kitchenette, separate bedroom, living room, fireplace, balcony, mountain view, next to The Village. Hotel is SOLD OUT for these dates. Asking $1200
Contact mammoth2011@yahoo.com for more info.

Taly Bar- Certified Massage Therapist
In her sessions she is able to sense the right healing method to benefit the individual client. Drawing from her techniques such as Craniosacral, Crystal and Energy Healing, Deep Tissue, Reflexology, and Relaxation and Breathing techniques. Through this, tension is released and energy centers unblocked. Taly has a strong intuitive approach connecting the body, mind and soul. Taly has helped to rejuvenate her clients from a variety of body weakness.
www.artbytalybar.com

Psychotherapy
Barbara Neitlich is a Licensed Clinical Social Worker with a private practice in Beverly Hills. Barbara is a graduate of New York University’s School of Social Work and The Reiss Davis Child Study Center. She has extensive training and experience working with children/teens with special needs, behavioral issues and mood disorders. Barbara sees children, adolescents and adults by appointment.
310-776-0235
www.integralpsychotherapy.biz

Perfect for snow days, these sleds are sleek and modern
Plus they connect so everyone can get in on the fun! And, the more you connect, the faster you’ll go!
http://www.giggle.com/eng/product/

SMART Marketing Strategies
Thousand Oaks Inn, Jan. 22nd 9am-5pm
One Day Workshop This content-rich, inter-active, “Guerrilla Marketing”, workshop will help jump-start your business in 2011, by getting your marketing efforts focused and on track! Get motivated to gain the clients you want! Get motivated and educated to grow your business forward! Get motivated to be accountable for your marketing actions! For more information contact Marcia at info@smartredesign.com.
www.smartredesign.com/SMworkshop.htm

CALLING ALL MOTHER & BABY PROFESSIONALS…
The next meeting of THE MOTHERHOOD CONSORTIUM will be held Friday, January 7th from 8:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the Braemar Country Club in Tarzana. Following time to mingle, the topic is Push Harder! The inside story from the ones who do it every day, Labor & Delivery Nurses -featuring a panel of Registered Nurses from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center. If you would like to attend, email cdore@postpartumhealth.com to receive an invitation and be added to the mailing list.

Beginning and Intermediate Computer Tutor
Kara loves to teach and considers herself very patient. Visit http://www.karathecomputertutor.com, call (310) 714-3952 or email kara@karathecomputertutor.com for more info

Referral Hotline Service
Are you in need of a roofer, a plumber, or an attorney? Why take a risk! Let Jewish Web Search refer you to the right business that you’re looking for. They refer everything from computer repair to dentists to carpet cleaning. It’s completely free. Call 1-888-818-9818 or go to http://jewishwebsearch.com.

Are you a thrifty recycler?
Find new purposes for used gift wrap and ribbon.
http://blog.oregonlive.com/homesandgardens/2010/12/

Dole lets consumers “travel to the origin of each organic product”
By typing in a fruit sticker’s three-digit code on Dole Organic’s website, customers can find the story behind their banana or pineapple. Each farm’s section on the website includes background info, shows photos of the crops and workers and tells consumers more about the origin of Dole’s organic products.
www.doleorganic.com

Looking for a used, working PS3
Do you have one collecting dust? Need one with at least 80 GB. Will pay up to $150. Email debfreedman@yahoo.com.

Discovery Toys After Christmas Sales are going on NOW!
Save up to 50% on the greatest educational toys, books, games and music products on the planet. Great for kids of all ages. All guaranteed for a lifetime. Find the perfect gift for every special day in 2011. Winter Wonderland Sale ends 12/31/10. Going Going Gone Sale ends 1/31/11. Find out how to get even more for your money, too! Contact Susie Unkeless at 818.399.7455.
www.discoverytoyslink.com/susieunkeless

A Harry Potter Themed Scavenger Hunt
Wednesday, December 29TH at 2pm
A unique Harry Potter-themed scavenger hunt! Follow in the footsteps of young wizards on a field trip to the Getty Center in search of art that echoes characters, places and enchanted objects in the famed Harry Potter books and movies. Wizards and muggles alike can play and enjoy this hunt. The hunt is not an addition to or variation on Harry’s adventures, but instead references to the books will provide a surprising bridge to many strange and wonderful works of art. It’s a great way to discover-or rediscover-the museum. Visit http://www.watsonadventures.com for further details.

Traveling Baby Company
Offers high quality baby equipment rentals for your travel needs. With locations in L.A and beyond they rent cribs, strollers, car seats, high chairs, toys and more. The rental network is dedicated to provide outstanding customer service while making your trip stress free. Experience the ease of traveling with children as trusted brand name items are delivered straight to your door. The convenience is amazing!  
www.travelingbaby.com

Preschool and Daycare Leads
Looking for a home away from home for your preschooler?
The Nurtury, located in Sherman Oaks, believes in the importance of providing children with a warm home-like setting where each child can discover his or her own unique individuality. Since 1975, they have been helping families to raise their children in an environment that develops healthy self-concepts, creative imaginations and social awareness. Enrolling now for Summer/Fall 2011.Learn more at www.nurturypreschool.com
AND
Teddy Bear Daycare
Carrie is opening up an imaginative, educational, fun and loving daycare in Canyon Country. She is fully licensed, First Aid and CPR certified and has her Master Teacher’s Permit in Early Childhood Development. She is accepting ages newborn to 5 years old. Please feel free to call anytime at (661) 714-1069 or email her at carriegor20@msn.com.
AND
Happy Kidz DayCare Home Based Preschool Program
Enroll by January 10th and receive $100 off full-time enrollment and $50 off part time for the first month tuition.
*Ages 12mo – 5yrs
*Two, three or five day a week programs
*7 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. or 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., part-time
*2 days, $280 per month, 3-days, $360 per month, 5-days,  $450 per month
*7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., full time
*5 days, $640 per month
*Meals and field trips are included
*License no. 197417241
“We provide tools that inspire learning and creativity”
818-457-4998 or 818-694-4182 
www.rachelshappykidz.com

Baking as a Business
Thursday, Jan. 13th at 630pm in West L.A.
Have you dreamed of opening a bakeshop?  Or running a small-scale baking business part time?  This intense seminar will give you all the tools you’ll need, from permits to formulas and commercial kitchens, to get you going!
http://gourmandisedesserts.com/class.php?id=319

SWIMMING LESSONS IN AN INDOOR HEATED POOL!
4 Months and Older!
Beverly Hills JEM Center
Heated to 92 Degrees
Private * Semi-Private * Adult
Parent and Me * Stroke Clinic
For more information or to register for classes, call 310-277-7775 or visit www.waterworksswim.com/LA.

The Little Knittery in Atwater Village
Now offering 5-week knitting workshops for kids, ages 5 to 12! By the end of a 5-week session, your child will have made either a scarf, hat, or doll. (And possibly be an even better knitter than you!)
5 Thursdays, 3:30 – 4: 30 pm, January 6th, 13th, 20th, 27th, February 3rd $120
For more info: http://thelittleknittery.bigcartel.com/product/kids-can-knit-too-5-sessions-thursdays-3-30-4-30-pm
(323)663-3838

Go ahead – indulge!  Dieting is just around the corner….
Double-Chocolate Loaf With Peanut Butter Cream Cheese Spread
http://www.oregonlive.com/foodday/index.ssf/
Rocky Road Bars
http://www.oregonlive.com/foodday/index.ssf/2008/06/
Chocolate Sauerkraut Cupcakes (traditional secret ingredient)
www.oregonlive.com/foodday/index.ssf/2008/06/recipe

iVolunteer
The best places to get involved and volunteer in your city. The site lists great ways to make a difference in other ways too: with what you buy, what you read, what you watch and what you need to know.  It is strictly editorial.  The mission is simple: to make volunteering and making a difference easier and more fun to do.   So you, too, can say “iVolunteer… do you?”
www.ivolunteer.org

LEGOLAND TICKETS FOR SALE
Fifteen (15) Legoland Park tickets available costing only $35 each. Regular entry costs of $69/adults and $59/children. Tickets are good for 1 day entry to Legoland Park (not Sea Life or Water Park) are good to use from 1/4/2011 until 3/31/2010. There are no blackouts – check website for park hours. Tickets can be mailed to you free via USPS, local pickup available. To purchase ticket(s) or questions please email Leo at Legotix@gmail.com.

Making Sense of Educational/Psychological Tests For Your Child With Special Needs
January 9th at 3pm PST
Special Kid School Talk Radio Show – Ask the Expert – Parents of kids with special needs  know that psychoeducational tests are hard to make sense of.  Clinical psychologist, Dr. Jennifer Cassatly joins us to explain what these tests measure and how parents can use the results to help their child learn.  Dr. Cassatly will tell us how to test for special learning needs such as ADD and autism, and will answer your questions about your child’s test scores.  Be sure to call in with questions during the show, or email your questions before the broadcast to Dr. Miller at klmiller555@sbcglobal.net.
http://millereducationalexcellence.com/educational-therapist

WOULD YOU LIKE MORE ENERGY DURING THE DAY & BETTER QUALITY SLEEP AT NIGHT?
Without caffeine or stimulants, ageLOC Vitality is a natural supplement that will give you constant sustained energy throughout the day, restful sleep at night, mental clarity & increase in physical endurance & strength ! For more info, contact Jennifer at jaquino@earthlink.net or 213.999.4560.
www.healthy-anti-aging-for-life.com

Traveling Notary/Contract Loan Processing
Fast, Accurate and Punctual. Experienced, Reasonable and Licensed.
Call Michael at 818-773-8378.

L&H Carpet Cleaners
Referred by rlipp@keikico.com
“Gotta get that old carpet cleaned ASAP for those holiday get-togethers or New Year’s party? Well I have THE BEST carpet cleaners around! L&H Carpet Cleaners owned and operated by Carlos Lopez is not only one of the most hard working and honest guys I’ve ever used but is reliable and reasonably priced. His equipment is truck mounted and gives the deepest hot steam cleaning possible. He even got rid of those hideous pet stains and odors I never thought would come out!! His number is (818)612-8270.”