Experience SCAD’s own ‘Night at the Museum’ – free of charge.

Aug. 28, 5:30 p.m. @ the SCAD Museum of Art

Visit Savannah College of Art and Design’s cool museum on a hot summer night! Bring the family and enjoy a screening of the blockbuster movie “Night at the Museum” (rated PG), followed by a flashlight-guided scavenger hunt tour of the galleries.

Film begins 5:30 p.m.; tour begins 7:30 p.m.

The screening and tour are free and open to the public.

Tour space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis. Sign up 5-5:30 p.m. at the museum front desk.

Galleries are open 5-8 p.m.

Email Melissa Messina, SCAD Museum of Art program manager, at mmessina@scad.edu for more information .

FOR MORE FREE SAVANNAH KIDS’ EVENTS, CLICK HERE.

Your kids are sun-kissed. You’re rested. And your husband’s rocking his beach bronze. What better time to book a photo session so you can be very ahead of the game with a sun-drenched family portrait or portraits of the children when the holidays roll around.

Lucky for you, Richmond Hill-based  Photography by Julie Anne makes this oh-so easy & affordable to do.

Schedule your session before September 5 2014 with Photography by Julie Anne and get $20 off your session AND 50% of any size canvas!

This special will only last until September 5.

Let’s get a head start on Christmas presents for the family & give them the gift of memories with a beautiful canvas of your children.

To schedule your session today, contact Julie at (912) 655-9497, email Julie@photographybyjulieanne.com, or visit her website at www.photographybyjulieanne.com  Julie Anne is also on Facebook so don’t forget to like her page  here to see all the great deals she offers each month.

Photography by Julie Anne,  email julie@photographybyjulieanne.com  (912) 655-9497, www.photographybyjulieanne.com ; On Facebook here.  Photography by Julie Anne is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Soccer, pottery, video game development – what will it be?

Find the after-school activity that your child will love.

Our SouthernMamas.com after-school activities page includes drawing & video game development classes @ Telfair’s Jepson Center; pottery classes @ Savannah’s Clay Spot; Star Wars Lego Art, Cartoon Drawing or Spooky Illustrations @ Scribble Art Studio; after-school theatre classes @ The Jewel Conservatory Theatre; fall soccer with Savannah United: after-school childcare with bus transportation from certain schools.

See your children’s after-school options here.

Teachers & homeschool groups, have you applied yet for Musical Explorers, Savannah Music Festival’s new partnership with Carnegie Hall’s Weill Music Institute?

Musical Explorers has been a huge hit with New York City schools, and in 2014-15 Savannah Music Festival will be the first organization in the nation to adapt Musical Explorers for a community outside of New York.

Deadline to apply has been extended to Mon. Aug. 18. More information on the program and an application for 2014-15 can be found  by clicking here.

Musical Explorers is a K-2 arts education program where students learn about their community, their city, their state and all the diverse musical styles that can be found in Georgia and the southeast. They also learn basic music skills and vocabulary. During the 2014-2015 school year, students explore various music styles including blues, classical, African-American spirituals, jazz, Slave Shouts, and bluegrass, embarking on a musical journey through the cultures found in and around Savannah.

For each genre of music, the students are “introduced” to a local artist, and songs and activities associated with the artist (3 artists per semester, 6 artists total). At the end of each semester, students meet the musicians they’ve learned about in the classroom live on stage, performing the songs from the curriculum in an interactive concert.

Click here watch a brief video, with footage put together by Carnegie Hall, that gives you the teacher’s perspective. (Just imagine your students going to the Lucas Theatre for the concert instead of Carnegie Hall!)

Some more program features:
*Two interactive concerts (fall and spring) per year in downtown Savannah featuring mulitcultural vocalists
*Two professional development workshops for participating teachers (fall and spring)
*An online, interactive Teacher Guide with accompanying musical excerpts, featuring lessons and creative extensions for yearlong coursework, geared toward both music and general classroom teachers
*Online, printable student activities

This program is absolutely free for participating schools!

More information on the program and an application for 2014-15 can be found  by clicking here.

Wear your most magical robes and hats and join Savannah Children’s Museum for FROGWARTS, an exciting wizarding event on Sunday, September 14th 2014 from 5pm-7pm! More info here. 

Take a ride on the Frogwarts Express to Savannah Children’s Museum to be sorted into Houses at Frogwarts. After the SCM Sorting Hat has picked your House, all the wizards and witches will get take fun magical classes like Potions, Wand Making.

This year Frogwarts is adding all new classes.

The Frogwarts Express will board at Georgia State Railroad Museum from 5pm-6pm and take all the witches and wizards to Savannah Children’s Museum.

The train boards on a first come, first served basis, so be sure to arrive on time to get onboard!

Pricing for Frogwarts is $10 per person ages 18 mo. and older.

Pre-registration AND pre-payment are REQUIRED for this popular annual event. Space is limited. Be sure to register today.

Click here to register

Savannah Children’s Museum, email info@savannahchildrensmuseum.org, 655 Louisville Road, Savannah 31401, www.savannahchildrensmuseum.org Savannah Children’s Museum is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser 

Win this fun Back to School Art Kit from Scribble Art Studio in Savannah & Pooler.

Just draw Mr. Roboto below and either take it Dick Blick Art Materials on Broughton Street to displayed in the “I Don’t Want to Grow Up” art show or post to Scribble’s Facebook wall! The “I Don’t Want to Grow Up” art show will be display through August @ the Blick Gallery, 318 E. Broughton St., downtown Savannah.

A randomly drawn winner will be announced Aug. 22nd at the artist reception, 6-8pm @ Blick Gallery in Savannah. A second art kit will be up for grabs as well.

To learn more about Scribble’s art classes & children’s birthdays in Pooler & Savannah, click here or call 912-713-7376 or email info@thescribbleartstudio.com

Scribble Art Studio in Savannah & Pooler also offers private & group art classes, summer art camps, adult art parties & children’s birthday parties, both in the studio & at-home DIY art birthday kits. For gifts, Scribble as art kits & gift certificates. For more information, contact artist Carrie Christian at (912) 713-7376 or emailinfo@thescribbleartstudio.com  . Click here for more info. Scribble Art Studio is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Disney salutes the men & women of our armed forces with special ticket pricing & room discounts for travel dates now through October 2015.

Active and retired US military personnel can save BIG and take advantage of specially priced rooms at select Walt Disney World resort hotels. The average discount is 30-40% off. And these offers can be combined with dining plans to add even more value to your vacation package.

Qualifying military personnel can also purchase up to a total of up to six, 4-day Military Promotional Tickets with a Park Hopper OR Water Park Fun & More upgrade for $177 each, plus tax. Get tickets with both upgrades for $207 each, plus tax. These tickets may be used September 28, 2014, through October 3, 2015 – except December 22, 2014 through January 2, 2015 and March 29 through April 9, 2015. The Military Promotional Tickets are only available for purchase at military sales outlets, NOT at Walt Disney World resort.

Availability for the room offer is limited, so contact Two Sisters Travel for a no-obligation vacation quote. Two Sisters Travel offers stress-free concierge vacation planning services for busy families and anyone that doesn’t want to get bogged down with the trip details. Two Sisters Travel is here to help you choose the best resort, dining plan (or not), FastPass selections, dining reservations, and even review crowd calendars to find the best time of year to travel… best part is that Two Sisters Travel services are 100% free.

Tara McCoy, Vacation Specialist at Two Sisters Travel
843.284.3241
Become a Facebook fan at facebook.com/twosisterstravel

Tara McCoy is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser 

WARNING: THE FOLLOWING INFORMATION MAY LEAVE YOU AND YOUR BABY VERY HUNGRY….FOR MORE MUSICAL FUN!

Announcing Kindermusik in Savannah’s August playdate: Monday, August 25, at 10 AM. The theme for August is “YUM! Fabulous Food!” Come explore music, movement, stories, instruments, and MORE, all centered around our musicalicious food theme.

Playdate is open to ages 0-7, and siblings are ONLY $5.

Each participant receives an instrument, 10 Kindermusik songs, and a BONUS gift at the end of class!

Spaces are limited, so enroll today online at www.88keysga.com (click on the Kindermusik link). Please note: August’s playdate is being held at a different time than most of our monthly playdates: 10am!

Any questions? Please email us or call us at 912.988.KEYS (5397) or music@88keysga.com

To enroll online, visit www.88keysga.com and click on the Kindermusik link. Kindermusik…A Good Beginning Never Ends.”

Kindermusik Savannah, email music@88keysga.com, 912.988.KEYS (5397), www.88keysga.com then click on Kindermusik link. Kindermusik is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Kids can enhance their artistic skills at the Jepson Center. Contact Kip Bradley at 912.790.8823 or bradleyk@telfair.org to reserve your space now!

Youth Classes

New! Classes for Homeschool Students Homeschool Contemporary Creative Explorer
Ages 8-12
Mondays, September 8-October 6, 10 am-12pm
Members $100, Non-members $125
The Contemporary Creative Explorer class will take students on a journey, exploring Telfair Museums’three sites and exhibitions. Find inspiration with instruction in drawing, painting and printmaking. Students immerse themselves in innovative arts lessons taught by professional artists. To register, click here.

Homeschool Portfolio Builder: Youth Drawing 1
Ages 10 – 14
Mondays September 8-October 6, 10 am-12pm
Members $100, Non-members $125
This class is designed to help upper-elementary and middle school students improve their drawing skills and begin the process of developing a portfolio. In Drawing I, students will focus on still life, practicing perspective and sketching from clothed models. Youth Drawing is a great class for students to develop their art portfolios. New students welcome! All materials will be provided. To register, click here.

Portfolio Builder: Youth Drawing 1
Ages 10-14
Thursdays, September 11-October 16, 4:30-6 pm
Members $100, Non-members $125
New students welcome! This six-week class is designed to help upper-elementary and middle school students improve their drawing skills and begin the process of developing a portfolio. In this session, students focus on measurement and proportion, value, and linear perspective in a variety of black and white media. Youth Drawing 1 is a great class for students to develop their art portfolios, and all materials are provided. To register, click here.

Video Game Development
Ages: 10-16yrs
Thursdays, October 23 – November 20 | 4:30-6pm
Members $100 | Non-members $125
In this five-week class, students build their own video game. Suitable for beginners to intermediate-level participants who want to join the fun! Explore, play, and create video games while learning computer programming from scratch using Game Maker. Prior programming experience is not required and all materials are provided. To register, click here.

Jepson Center, 207 W York St. Savannah, 31401 , http://telfair.org/learn/family-programs Telfair Museums is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

Telfair Museums provides many opportunities for families to visit the museum, learn, and make art together. Are you looking for a fun and educational activity for children? Check these out:

WCWM? (What Can We Make?)
Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays / 1-4 PM
Jepson Center’s Melaver Studio
The studios are open for drop-in visits for all ages. No need to pre-register. Free to members or with museum admission. Open to adults and children accompanied by an adult caregiver. More info available here. 
Join Jepson Center as they open the studios for drop in visits for all ages. wcwm? (What Can We Make?) focuses on developing problem-solving and critical thinking skills through imagination. Explore your creative side with inspiring activities utilizing recycled materials, found objects, and traditional art supplies. In addition to the wcwm? project kits, the studios provide watercolor and collage opportunities as well. More info here. 

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Stroller Tours, Telfair Tots

Telfair Museums in Savannah has two new fun & educational programs for young children – babies, toddlers & preschoolers – to visit the museum, learn and make art together.

Stroller Tours Stroller Tours 3rd Thursday of Every Month
9:30-10:15am
Telfair Museums is excited to introduce its newest program for the stroller set! Join Telfair Museums for a monthly gathering where parents & caregivers can enjoy a morning at the museum while also engaging infants with art. Babies thrive on dynamic environments, so each month we’ll explore a different set of artwork. There will be touchable toys for the little ones, adult conversation for you & like-minded art lovers. Finish your visit with a leisurely talk over complimentary coffee & tea in Telfair Museum’s café. Strollers, crying & older siblings are all welcome here.

October 16 – Rolling on the River
Find yourself walking through a river of light and sound in the immersive Deep River installation.

November 20 – Peeking at Portraits
Get to know the people in our paintings in the Telfair Academy.

December 18 – Color/Contrast
Discover different ways colors are combined in abstract and representational works in Savannah Collects.

Infants from 2-18 months and adults welcome. Included with museum admission; free to members. Ten spaces are available.

CLICK HERE TO PRE-REGISTER or contact Glenna Barlow at 912.790.8821.

Telfair Tots 3rd Thursday of Every Month
10:30-11:30am
Start your day with art! Once a month preschoolers aged 2 ½ – 5 and their adult companions are invited to the museum for story time, a special tour, and an art activity. Younger siblings are welcome to tag along. Come play and learn with us!

October 16 – Dress Up, Dress Down
There are all sorts of reasons to play dress up – holidays, festivals, or just for fun. Come dance and move with costumes as we learn about masks and clothing from around the world in the ArtZeum, and make your own special headdress.

November 20 – Magic Touch
Art can be made out of all sorts of things – silver, plastic, wood, and so much more. Explore an eclectic mix of artwork in Savannah Collects and activate your sense of touch. Then use your own hands to create multi-media sculptures.

December 18 – Silver and Gold
These shiny metals aren’t just for jewelry. Take a walk with us to explore the various metals and materials used in sculptures around the museum. Then you‘ll create your own modified brass rubbings in silver and gold.

Activity fee is $5 per participating child; regular museum admission for caregivers. Adult members are always free.

CLICK HERE TO PRE-REGISTER or contact Glenna Barlow at 912.790.8821.

The two above new programs are in addition to other kids’ programs currently offered by Telfair Museums in Savannah including WCWM (What Can We Make?) & FREE Family Days offered one Saturday a month. Details here. 

FOR MORE MOMMY & ME ACTIVITIES IN SAVANNAH & THE LOWCOUNTRY, CLICK HERE. 

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ArtZeum
Located in the Jepson Center
A great place to visit after school, on a rainy day, on weekends, or just anytime, the Telfair’s hands-on learning gallery and interactive exhibits provide an excellent introduction to big ideas about art. Click here to learn more.

Activity Downloads
Download activity sheets here on the educational resources page before your museum visit and explore the museum with fun and educational search activities.

FREE Family Days (Next one is Sept. 6. Theme: Playing with Photography Details here.)
Telfair Museums FREE family days will be on the first Saturday of each month, 1-4 PM through 2014 These events highlight a different exhibition each month and feature art-making activities for visitors of all ages.  More info here. 

Jepson Center, 207 W York St. Savannah, 31401 , http://telfair.org/learn/family-programs Telfair Museums is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

FOR MORE LOCAL KIDS’ EVENTS, VISIT OUR EVENTS CALENDAR BY CLICKING HERE.

Coastal Kids Market upscale seasonal consignment sale is in the midst of planning their best market ever!

You do not want to miss this one so please go on over to the CKM website by clicking here and click on the registration tab for clear instructions on how to become a consignor.

If you are new to consigning, just click on the consignor tab to get full details on how this market works. Before you are through, make sure to check out the benefits of volunteering (be the first ones in the door) and select a check-in time to drop off your own stash. Volunteer registration spots will be opening soon, too.

EARLY BIRD SPECIAL

If you register to consign by noon on Fri., Aug 15, you will be considered an early bird and will be entered into a giveaway to receive a $20 gift certificate to CKM. If you want to be entered TWICE, go to the Coastal Kids Market Facebook page  here f and just hit the SHARE button on the post about early bird registration (It’s pinned right at the top for you!)

Coastal Kids Market Fall dates are: Sept 10th (preview party for volunteers and consignors only) through Sept 13th.

Stay connected

Please check out CKM Facebook page here frequently as you want to make sure you don’t miss any big announcements and giveaways. Also, please hover over the “Liked” button and click “Show in News Feed” to help CKM posts show up in your news feed.

Coastal Kids Market is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser. 

The Jewel Conservatory Theatre – an educational theatre in Rincon dedicated to providing classic theatre entertainment and quality theatre classes for all ages – has a whole assortment of after-school theatre classes for all ages!

Their classes are custom made to young thespians to focus on the process of being a truthful actor and do not put the pressure of performing on them. Each student will have a blast learning about acting through games, scene study, ensemble-driven classes.

Junior Gems
Ages 3-5
This is the perfect introductory to stories on stage! Your youngest thespian will dive right into story drama through songs, simple movement, and crafts–we make our own costumes and props! These classes are 45 minutes and specifically created for the pre-school student!
Aug. 27- Oct. 22 2014
Wednesdays
4-4:45 p.m.
$80

Emeralds
Ages 6-8
This is the perfect introductory to stories on stage! Your little actor will learn about the fun of theatre! Through songs, stage movement, and age-appropriate story drama, your child will build their confidence and meet new friends. You will be blown away with the complex characters your children will create!
Aug. 27- Oct. 22 2014
Wednesdays
5-6 PM
$90

Elementary Troupe
Ages 9-12
From Greeks to folk lore to fairytales the Elementary Troupe does it all! Your elementary schooler will learn all about projection, character development, and how to stand and move on stage through fun games and play-study. Get ready to laugh and learn all about how fun theatre can be!
Tuesday Night Class
Get Grimm-The Seven Ravens
Sept 2-Oct 28, 2014
6-7 p.m.
$105
Thursday Night Class
Get Grimm- The Bremen Town Musicians
Aug. 28-Oct 23 2014
4-5 p.m.
$105

Teen Troupe
Ages 13-18
Your teen will get the perfect introduction to acting theory and technique in this class. Designed to teach key acting techniques through games and scene study, your teen will learn about Stanislaski and Bogart acting techniques through studying classic and contemporary theatre.
Sept 11-Nov. 6, 2014
Thursdays
5:30-7 p.m.
$115

Girls Chorus
Ages 10+
The Jewel Conservatory Theatre could not be more excited to be adding an all-girls chorus! No experience necessary, just a love for music! Auditions are required. Includes all music fees, etc.
Aug 20- Nov 4, 2014
Wednesday
6-7 pm
$50 per month

TO REGISTER FOR ANY OF THE ABOVE CLASSES, CLICK HERE.

The Jewel Conservatory Theatre, 6014 HWY 21 Suite E Rincon, Ga 31326, (912) 257-0671 email jewelconservatorytheatre@gmail.com, www.jewelconservatory.com  The Jewel Conservatory Theatre is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Back to School is here and Childcare Network invites you to check out their Young Achiever’s After School Program.  Kids explore new themes each month, discovering lots of fun and making new friends.

Childcare Network has a bus safety procedure that is like no other to ensure that the children in their care are safe and sound.  Buses pick children up from the list of schools below.  So call today to check availability at the location your child attends! More info here. 

Childcare Network’s three locations in Savannah are:

Childcare Network, 912-897-3888, http://www.childcarenetwork.com/Programs/Young-Achievers-Club   Childcare Network is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

The annual Penn Center Heritage Days Celebration returns to Beaufort, SC this November 2014 to celebrate the history & legacy of the Gullah Geechee & the Lowcountry’s ties to West Africa.

The festival takes place Thurs. Nov. 6 through Sat. Nov. 8 on the historical campus of Penn Center, a museum & cultural center situated on the site of the first school for freed slaves established during the Civil War.

Heritage Days Celebration events will showcase Gullah cultural connections & immerse visitors in West African traditions through both educational & entertaining events, including:
An art exhibition featuring York W. Bailey
An old-fashioned prayer service
An opening ceremony and founders memorial
Friday center stage entertainment
A fish fry, oyster roast and blues night
A Saturday parade
Youth Day events & entertainment

The Penn Center was the first school established and is located on St. Helena Island.

For more information about Gullah culture or about the Heritage Days Celebration, visit www.PennCenter.com or call (843) 838-2432.

Bring your kids to the FREE Savannah Dog Show 2014 Nov. 28-Dec. 1 at The Savannah International Trade & Convention Center on Hutchinson Island.

Free. Including parking.

Pets are not allowed, only dogs entered in the show are allowed.

If you have a mixed breed you want to enter, they can participate in obedience, rally, barn hunts, lure coursing and several other title programs. Details here.

Reminder: you can take the free ferry ride from River Street to The Savannah International Trade Center & the Westin on Hutchinson Is. across the Savannah River  & then take it back. Kids love the boat ride.

FOR MORE FREE SAVANNAH KIDS’ EVENTS, CLICK HERE.

Spend the day “playground hopping,” visiting some of our top picks for playgrounds in the Greater Savannah, Ga. area & Hilton Head Is./Beaufort, S.C. area or just picking one and spending the day there.

Here are some of the best playgrounds in Savannah, Hilton Head Is., Beaufort, S.C.

Forsyth Park
Two playgrounds with restrooms, café, spray pool, paved sidewalk for walking, biking. Pack a lunch (or eat at the café) & spend the day in this landmark, historic park. Check out the gated fragrant garden for the blind if it’s unlocked, the park fountains. Kids can dance to their heart’s content on the bandshell’s canopied stage. Toddler playground at Forsyth Park (next to the Visitors’ Center cafe) includes a rocking toucan
700 Drayton Street, Savannah 31401

Mother Mathilda Beasley Park:
Two playgrounds with new equipment, large grass-covered field, a baseball field, multi-purpose trail and dog park, picnic tables. Drawbacks include lack of shade & the beautiful new pavilion with restrooms is often locked & inaccessible.
500 E. Broad Street Savannah, 31401

Davant
Small playground behind Colonial Cemetery in Savannah. Picnic tables. No restrooms
Lincoln St. / E Perry Lane Savannah, 31401

Baldwin Park
Small fenced playground in residential area. Drawbacks: No restrooms.
E. 41st St. / Atlantic Ave., Savannah 31401

Daffin Park
Two playgrounds, lake, walking trail, picnic area, tennis courts, fields.
1500 E Victory Drive, Savannah 31404

Hull Park
Playground, sheltered picnic area, spray pool, baseball field. A great, popular neighborhood playground with a merry-go-round perfect for playdates. Drawback: no restrooms and not a lot of shade.
55th St./Atlantic Avenue, Savannah 31405

Lake Mayer
Playground includes three climbing structures complete with climbing walls, tunnels; swing sets, baby swing sets, swivel seat, twirling toy, see-saw, mulch; picnic tables, two pavilions available for rent, tennis courts, lighted basketball courts, 1.5 jogging/bike paved trail with fitness course, lake, boat ramps, restrooms, baseball field, lighted hockey rink, dog exercise area.
1850 E. Montgomery Crossroads Savannah, 31406

Isle of Hope
Playground, basketball court
Cornus Dr Savannah, 31406

Skidaway Island State Park playground in Savannah.
Playground, Picnic Tables. Free admission. $5 parking fee.
52 Diamond Causeway, Savannah. 31411

Wilmington Island playground
Shaded playground, covered pavilion, restrooms
Cohen Ave at Walthour Rd Savannah, 31410

Memorial Park Playground, behind Tybee Is. Library, Tybee Is.
Fenced playground, bath rooms, covered picnic area, faux pirate ship, see-saw whale rocker, climbing wall, swings.
405 Butler Ave., Tybee Island 31328

Jaycee Park Playground
Fenced playground, within walking distance to the beach. Drawbacks: No bathrooms.
27 Van Home Ave., Tybee Island, 31328.

Scott Stell Playground
Playground, restrooms, three pavilions available for rent, tennis courts, lighted basketball courts, jogging/bike paved trail w/ fitness course, baseball fields, dog exercise area, volleyball play areas, archery range
195 Scott Stell Community Park Savannah, 31419

J.F. Gregory, Richmond Hill
Fenced playground, picnic tables, restrooms, covered pavilions available for rent, 335 acre multi-use recreational area with a lake, walking trail, birding tower, and two restored Henry Ford era homes.
521 Cedar St, Richmond Hill, 31324

Tom Triplett Park, Pooler
Playground, two Pavilions available for rent, conference room available for rent, tennis courts, lake, 1.5 jogging/bike paved track with fitness course, restrooms, dog exercise, disc golf course
Tom Triplett Rd Pooler, 31322

West Chatham YMCA playground
Chatham County’s first play facility compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act and features a music station, a tractor, a climbing wall and therapeutic swings for special-needs kids.
off Pooler Parkway between the YMCA and Pooler’s new municipal recreation complex

Hilton Head Is/Beaufort, S.C.

Gregg Russell Playground in Harbour Town, Hilton Head Is.
The Gregg Russell Playground at Harbour Town is one of the top playgrounds in our area.
Fenced, somewhat shaded playground that includes a treehouse; swings; numerous slides; lots of climbing bars, jungle gym bars, monkey bars. Just outside the fenced-playground is a water fountain; picnic tables; bathrooms; and plenty of spots for lunch, drinks or coffee and of course, the famous Harbour Town lighthouse which is open to climb for a free plus $5 Sea Pines gate fee.
Harbour Town, Hilton Head, SC 29928

Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park Playground, Beaufort, S.C.
Playground with hardwood mulch, restrooms a stage for performances, a pavilion for displays and a grassed amphitheater for picnicking, frisbee or simple relaxing. Kids can watch fishermen showing their skills on the dock in front of the playground
1010 Bay Street, Beaufort, S.C. 29902

Pigeon Point Park playground, Beaufort, S.C.
Age appropriate playground equipment that includes merry-go-around, restrooms, picnic tables, water fountains, age appropriate playground equipment, large oak trees that provide shade
Pigeon Point Road Beaufort, SC 29902

FOR MORE FREE LOCAL KIDS’ ACTIVITIES, CLICK HERE.

2014 Savannah Children’s Book Festival Storytimes

Live Oak Public Libraries presents special storytimes leading up to the Savannah Children’s Book Festival, which is set for Nov. 15, 2014, at Forsyth Park.

These storytimes feature the books of a different festival author or illustrator each month.

Storytime featuring books by Bruce Degen, author of the Magic School Bus books, Jamberry and more. See his many books here.

Oglethorpe Mall Library, 925-5432
Monday, Aug. 25, 11 a.m.

Thunderbolt Branch Library, 354-5864
Tuesday, Aug. 26, 11 a.m.

Forest City Library, 238-0614
Tuesday, Aug. 26, 11 a.m.

Port City Library, 964-8013
Tuesday, Aug. 26, 11 a.m.

Bull Street Library, 652-3630
Wednesday, Aug. 27, 10:30 a.m.

West Broad Library, 232-6395
Wednesday, Aug. 27, 10:30 a.m.

W. W. Law Library, 233-8040
Wednesday, Aug. 27, 10:30 a.m.

Southwest Chatham Library, 925-8305
Thursday, Aug. 28, 10:30 a.m.

More info here. 

Dog days

Got a shy beginner reader?

In this popular library program, children are encouraged to practice their reading skills with the most patient of listeners: therapy dogs. For readers ages 5 and up. (Note: Some of the dogs at this special library program are “Tail Waggin’ Tutors” from Therapy Dogs International.)

Rincon Library, Wednesday, Oct. 8, 4:30 p.m., 826-2222
Southwest Chatham Library, Saturday, Oct. 11, 12 p.m., 925-8305
Oglethorpe Mall Library, Saturday, Oct. 18, 12 p.m., 925-5432
Pooler Library, Monday, Oct. 20, 4:30 p.m., 748-0471
Southwest Chatham Library, Saturday, Oct. 25, 12 p.m., 925-8305
Bull Street Library, Monday, Oct. 27, 4:30 p.m., 652-3630

FOR MORE FREE LOCAL KIDS’ ACTIVITIES, CLICK HERE.

One of the best ways to save on a Walt Disney World vacation, the FREE DINING promotion, ends this Friday, August 8th 2014. 

Book a package now for only $200 and take advantage of some great discounts for travel during select dates this fall and winter.

For 2014, the available dates are August 31st – October 3rd, October 26th – November 1st, November 9th – November 20th, and December 12th – December 23rd. Free dining is being offered to guests for their entire length of stay as long as your arrival date is within the promotion dates!!

FREE Dining Plans are available at select Walt Disney World Resorts and require a minimum 3-night stay with 2-day base tickets. Guests staying in a Value Resort will receive the Quick-Service Dining Plan and guests in Moderate, Deluxe, and Deluxe Villa Resorts receive the Disney Dining Plan. You can even upgrade your dining plan by paying the cost difference between your complimentary plan and the plan you want. This is a very popular time for my clients to try out the Deluxe Dining Plan!!

Availability is extremely limited, and dining reservations are already open for these dates, so let’s start planning your magical Disney vacation now! Contact Two Sisters Travel now for your no-obligation vacation quote or details. And remember, their travel planning services are 100% FREE!!

Tara McCoy, Vacation Specialist at Two Sisters Travel

843.284.3241

Tara McCoy is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

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Leopold’s Ice Cream in Savannah celebrates 95 years of tasty memories at their annual Birthday Block Party Saturday, Aug. 16.

The dancers are ready, the band is in tune and the Birthday Cake Ice Cream has been lovingly made. It’s Birthday Block Party time at Leopold’s Ice Cream.

Come help Leopold’s celebrate 95 years of Tasty Memories at our annual Leopold’s Ice Cream Birthday Block Party! Join us for live music, games, kid’s activities, contests and dancing in the street.

In recognition of their 95 years in Savannah, and as a way to thank the community for your long and loyal support, Leopold’s will offer ninety-five cent single scoops all day.

The shop opens at 11 a.m. and the block party starts at noon. Leopold’s will need kids (young and young at heart) to help blow out the candles and cut the birthday cake at 3 p.m.

Free and fun for the entire family. We’ll see you there.

Stage Schedule:
Noon – Storyteller J’Miah Nabawi
1pm – Coastal Starz representing Coastal Performing Arts Academy
2:30pm – The Ballet School with artistic director Heidi M. Carter
3pm – Join us as we cut our 95th birthday cake!
3:30pm – Abeni Cultural Arts Performing Dance Studio
4:30 – 8:30pm – The Twinz

Leopold’s Ice Cream, 212 E. Broughton St., Savannah, 31404. 912-234-4442 www.leopoldsicecream.com 

UPDATE: The Happily Ever After Ball if officially sold out!!

You’re invited to The Happily Ever After Ball
Sunday August 24th, 2-6pm
Brockington Hall, 213 East Hall St. near Forsyth Park

100% of Proceeds benefits The Children’s Hospital at Memorial University Medical Center
Tickets are $20 each, you can purchase tickets through The Next Generation by clicking here.

Bring your prince, princess or pirate to this fun-filled evening for adults and children with lots of activities featuring all of their favorite fairy tale characters such as Cinderella, Peter Pan, Tinkerbell, Tiana, and Merida and new this year: Elsa and Ana. Have your little girl’s hair done at Rapunzel’s Hair Palace, travel under the sea with the Little Mermaid and Prince Eric, and challenge Captain Jack to a sword fight throughout the Brockington Hall mansion in the historic district just off of Forsyth Park.

Meet your favorite princess or pirate, sword fight with Captain Jack, get dolled up at Rapunzel’s hair palace, capture your Tinkerbell adventure with Christine Hall and Snowball fight with Ana, Elsa, and Kristoff.

To purchase tickets click here

After your princess has her hair and make-up done, you can get her photo taken by Christine Hall, Savannah’s most sought-after photographer. Your little ones are more than welcome to bring their favorite costumes (think Belle, Spiderman or Jake) but costumes are not required. There will be an amazing raffle, surprises and treats for moms and little ones, and plenty to eat at the Mad Tea Party. Don’t miss out on all the fun!

Happily Ever After Ball sponsors are Elkins Constructors, Bleu Belle Boutique, Whole Foods, Posh Petals and Pearls and many many more.

The Next Generation is a volunteer organization founded to benefit The Children’s Hospital at Memorial University Medical Center. The Next Generation is comprised of young professionals, neighbors, parents, and friends throughout Savannah and the Coastal Empire who are interested in donating their time, talents, and financial resources to the patients and families of The Children’s Hospital at Memorial University Medical Center.

Happily Ever After Ball is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Celebrate a great summer by participating in a junior golf tournament with your child. Take part in the Parent-Junior Golf Tournament Aug. 17 at The Club at Savannah Harbor on Hutchinson Is. near The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa. Open to the public! For ages 6 & older. Cost includes 2 green fees on 18-hole short course; cart fees; use of practice facility & PRIZES.

Contact Paul Killgallon for more information at 912.201.2240, email paul.killgallon@westin.com or click here.

The Club at Savannah Harbor, Hutchinson Is., 2 Resort Drive, Savannah, 31421, 912.201.2240, email Golf.savannah@westin.com https://www.facebook.com/TheClubAtSavannahHarbor, www.theclubatsavannahharbor.com   The Club at Savannah Harbor is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

Experience the thrill of black powder during daily cannon firing demonstrations at Old Fort Jackson, a must-see National Historic Landmark!

WHERE: Old Fort Jackson
WHEN: 11am & 2pm

OFJ is located at 1 fort Jackson Road, Savannah, GA. More info is available by clicking here or by calling 912-232-3945.

Coastal Heritage Society manages Old Fort Jackson, a historic fort located on the Savannah River three miles east of downtown Savannah, www.chsgeorgia.org/, Coastal Heritage Society is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Universal Survival Innovations has added two new local training programs open to the public.

Get Off The X course for moms/daughters or fathers/sons

The first is an overnight course named “Get off the X” and is held at USI’s training facility in Cochran Ga. It is a very exciting course that trains fathers and sons or mothers and daughters to work as a team to satisfy their needs. This bonding experience is taught using techniques required for survival as if isolated in combat. Training includes camouflage and movement techniques, tactical navigation, water procurement, evasion fire craft, signaling/proof of life, defeating common restraints and culminates in an escape scenario.

If you can learn how to take care of yourselves like the Special Forces do, then surviving gets that much easier…and it’s a lot of fun. This is a gender based course so it’s either moms and daughters or dads and sons. Learn more here

Street Smarts class for women, youth groups

The second course is called “Street Smarts” and was originally designed for Women as a PROACTIVE protection course as opposed to the REACTIVE courses available, such as firearms training. “Street Smarts” is based on the concept that identifying a potential threat and responding to it is better than trying to fight off and survive an attack. “Street Smarts” includes lessons in surveillance detection, threat avoidance, defeating common restraints, dealing with security and getting to safety.

“Street Smarts” is a two day course which is perfect for traveling professionals, missionaries, mothers, and youth groups. It is held in either Savannah GA or Columbia SC.  Learn more here. 

Online classes

Online USI provides training through a division called ASIST – Applied SERE Instruction and Security Training. USI has online videos that address basic fire craft and improvised shelters. Several videos are in production and will be available in the near future. USI also has the capability of producing video training on custom subjects per clients’ request. USI videos can be previewed by clicking here. 

Custom survival kits

USI’s Custom survival kits support  their training and their clients. Their kits are in the hands of outdoor enthusiasts, military members and government agents such as those from the Department of Natural Resources; basically anyone who can find themselves isolated from immediate support/rescue.

The following kits have been the most popular among outdoor enthusiasts.

Basic Fire Craft Kit (shown below): currently being used in a new Fire Craft Program USI designed for the Girl Scouts of Oregon and Southwest Washington and is being presented to the Girl Scouts of America.

The Personal Survival Kit Includes:

*MOLLE Pouch
*Opinel Knife and Ferrocerium Rod
*Shelter w/ 25’ 550 Cord
*Wetfire, Utility Flame, and USI tinders
*Signal Mirror w/ Whistle
*1 liter bag w/ chlorine dioxide tabs
*Headlamp

The Basic Fire Craft Kit Includes:

*Waterproof Pouch
*Mora Companion Knife
*Ferrocerium Rod
*Zippo Fire Starter w/ tinders
*Stormproof Matches w/ striker
*Utility Flame Gel
*WetFire Cubes
*USI tinders
*PitchWood Sticks
*Fire Craft Field Guide
*Online Access to ASIST Basic Fire Craft Video

Stay connected to USI by liking their page on Facebook here. 

USI is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser