UPDATE:  Summer Hours begin June 1 through Aug. 30 2014: Savannah Children’s Museum’s Summer Hours
Sunday: Closed
Monday-Saturday: 9am-2pm

Please call 912-651-6823 for details.

Looking for a fun place to play & learn with the kids this week?

Check out Savannah Children’s Museum, next to Georgia State Railroad Museum. The museum offers daily kids’ activities during summer Mon.-Sat., weather permitting.

Savannah Children’s Museum is opening in 2 phases. Exploration Station is phase 1 and is a unique 1 acre, 2 level outdoor exhibit area set in the ruins of a Central of Georgia Railroad building.

SCHOOL YEAR HOURS:
From August 31st, 2013 until June 1 2014, Savannah Children’s Museum will be open 10am-4pm Tuesday-Saturday, 11am-4pm on Sundays. Closed Mondays. SCM will be open on most  “Holiday Mondays” including (Feb. 17 2014) when Savannah Chatham County Schools are not in session. Summer hours start in June.

ADMISSION COST:
$7.50 per person ages
1 and older or
Take the Leap and purchase a 1 year Family Membership! Membership info here.

Daily programming subject to change.

Mondays (9AM-2PM)
Story time: 10 AM & 1 PM
Creative Crafts 11 AM
Water Wonders 11:30-12:30

Tuesdays (9AM-2PM)
Story time: 10 AM & 1 PM
Super Science 11 AM
Water Wonders 11:30-12:30

Wednesdays (9AM-2PM)
Story time: 10 AM & 1 PM
Awesome Art: 11 AM
Water Wonders: 11:30-12:30

Thursday June 5 (9 AM-2 PM)
No daily programming will be offered today due to preparations for the 2nd Annual SCM Fundraiser and SCM’s 2nd Birthday Party. The museum WILL be open from 9am-2pm today, however. Apologies for any inconvenience.

Regular Thursdays in Summer (9AM-2PM)
Story time: 10 AM & 1 PM
Creative Crafts 11 AM
Water Wonders 11:30-12:30

Friday June 6 (9AM-2PM)
No daily programming will be offered today due to preparations for the 2nd Annual SCM Fundraiser and SCM’s 2nd Birthday Party. The museum WILL be open from 9am-2pm today, however. Apologies for any inconvenience.

Regular Fridays in Summer Mondays (9AM-2PM)
Story time: 10 AM & 1 PM
Creative Crafts 11 AM
Water Wonders 11:30-12:30

Sat. June 7 (9 AM-2 PM)
Savannah Children’s Museum’s 2nd Birthday Party!
Featuring:
-Snapology of Richmond Hill, providing a wide variety of Lego activities!
-Make your own party hat and Lego craft stations!
-A “Happy Birthday SCM” sing-along at 11am and 1pm, directly followed by yummy treats provided by Gigi’s Cupcakes!
-And lots more fun!

Regular Saturdays in Summer (9AM-2PM)
Story time: 10 AM & 1 PM
Awesome Art: 11 AM
Water Wonders 11:30-12:30

Program Descriptions:
Water Wonders: a free-play water based program in which children of all ages (this means adults too!) can cool off during the hot Savannah summer! Children may wear bathing suits during this program, but are required to put their clothes and shoes back on when the program is over.
Creative Crafts : a fun program designed to allow children to create something special to take home using their imaginations and creativity. This program is generally appropriate for ages 3-12.
Story Time: (a classic read-aloud program for children of all ages. The books read during each story time will be chosen based on the ages of children participating)
Super Science (This is an experiment based science program that will introduce children to interesting science concepts through REALLY COOL investigations! This program is generally appropriate for ages 4-12.)
Awesome Art (This goes beyond crafts to teach about different medias, artists, and techniques in a child friendly way. This program is generally appropriate for ages 4-12.)
Toddler Art ( program specifically geared to introduce toddler age children to new art-focused experiences that are highly sensory.  This program is generally appropriate for ages 2-4.)

Stay connected with Savannah Children’s Museum by liking their Facebook page here.

Savannah Children’s Museum, 655 Louisville Rd., Savannah, 31401, (912) 651-4292, email info@savannahchildrensmuseum.org, www.savannahchildrensmuseum.org Coastal Heritage Society is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Maggie’s Morning School in Savannah will begin open registration for the 2014-2015 school year on February 3rd, 2014.

Maggie’s Morning School will NOT have a weekend open house for the BFTS (lottery state funded) Pre-K program as in the past. Instead, parents may register any time beginning on Monday February 3rd. Please note, this is popular preschool and registration is taken on a first come first served basis. So if you want your child to attend, register as early as possible.

Children must be 4 years old by Sept. 1 for the Pre-K. Required documents include proof of birth and proof of residence; registrations will not be accepted without both documents.

Maggie’s Morning School is open Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.

For the school year, Maggie’s serves children ages 18 months (by Sept 1) through 3 classes of State-Funded (FREE) Pre-K. Maggie’s Morning School in Savannah offers part-time preschool for 4-year-olds.

Call (912) 352-8404 or (912) 352-8065 for more info or click here. Tell them SouthernMamas.com sent you!

Stay connected by “liking” Maggie’s Morning School on Facebook here.

Maggie’s Morning School, 6610 Abercorn St., Savannah, 31405, www.maggiesmorningschool.org,  On Facebook here. (912) 352-8404, (912) 352-8065 Maggie’s Morning School is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

~CoachWayne! Gymnastics in Savannah Mall offers world-class gymnastics, tumbling, martial arts and ballet classes.  Classes are offered for children ages 18 months to teen. More information here.

Looking for a little gym for your toddler? ~Coach Wayne! Gymnastics offers preschool classes including Parent & Child classes for children as young as 18-30 months old. Attention working parents: these parent & child classes are even offered on WEEKENDS (including Sundays!) as well as Fridays. Details here.

Other class options include:

Preschool tumbling starting at 18 months to 5 years old (offered seven days a week). Click here.

Gymnastics for ages 6 & older (offered seven days a week). Click here.

Ballet classes including Mommy & Me; beginner; intermediate; advanced (including Sunday classes) Click here.  

Martial Arts for ages 5 & older. Click here

Stay connected with ~Coach Wayne! Gymnastics on Facebook  here.

~Coach Wayne! Gymnastics,  Savannah Mall (upstairs near Dillards), 14045 Abercorn St. Suite 2506, Savannah, 31419, (888) 548-4545, email info@coachwayne.com  On Facebook here, www.coachwayne.com ~Coach Wayne! Gymnastics is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

St. Andrew’s School on Wilmington Island invites you to their ONLY All-School Open House event of the 2014-2015 application year at 1:30 PM Jan. 26.

St. Andrew’s is Savannah’s only independent, college-preparatory school with Apple Distinguished School status for three years running; partnered with Thrive Cafe, Savannah’s only green-certified restaurant for healthy lunches; and recognized as an International Baccalaureate World School for focus on global competency.

Here are some other features to consider:
> As one of the Washington Post’s Most Challenging High Schools, students have early placements this year to University of Georgia, Yale, Colorado, and the United States Naval Academy.
> There are no more than two classrooms per grade in lower school with a 9:1 student to teacher ratio, and fifth graders are part of the middle school program.
> The three year old and four year old kindergartens have a curriculum that includes a literacy specialist, mathematics and science specialist, art specialist, music specialist, and physical education specialist. World language in the form of Mandarin Chinese and Spanish are also part of lower school.
> A community garden managed by lower schoolers is integrated into the curriculum and supplies food for the dining hall this year in the innovative Farm to Table philosophy.
> Bussing from Southbridge communities and Skidaway communities through both downtown and Isle of Hope provide access for families to the “only independent school on the islands!”
> A robust scholarship and financial aid program makes the experience available to countless mission-appropriate families seeking the best for their child.

The school is intentionally sized at no more than 500 students. As other schools in the region grow for growth’s sake, St. Andrew’s remains committed to the most important factor in education–the relationship between the teacher and student. School administrators pledge to be an environment where every child is known and valued–a personalized educational experience.

Come to the open house Sunday to hear St. Andrew’s parents, teachers, and students share their stories.

For admission information, visit www.saintschool.net/admissions . For academic information, visit www.saintschool.com

St. Andrew’s School, 601 Penn Waller Road, Savannah, 31410, www.saintschool.com St. Andrew’s School is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

Attention families with children ages 0-7.

Interested in parent-and-child early childhood music education classes? Come to Kindermusik’s FREE DEMO DAY in Savannah on Monday, January 27, 2014:
*FREE class offered for 0’s and 1’s at 9:30am
*FREE class offered for 2’s and 3’s at 10:30am.
*FREE class for any ages, 0-7 & is called “Kindermusik Family Time”
* If you have a child OVER 3 years old, and are interested in attending a free demo class, please email Kindermusik at music@88keysga.com .

The classes will be held at Kindermusik’s new Spring location: Risen Savior Lutheran Church – 1755 Quacco Road, Savannah.

Spaces are limited for these free demo classes, so if you’re interested in attending, please register ONLINE today! Yes, the class is FREE, but you do need you to register in order to reserve a place for you. In order to register, visit www.88keysga.com  and click on the Kindermusik link. From there, find the DEMO Class you want, and register – easy! You should get an email confirmation after successfully registering.

New Kindermusik classes

Mrs. Marina Lindblom will once again be teaching some of the Kindermusik classes, which start February 2014 at a BRAND NEW LOCATION! This location is highly convenient, located in Savannah, but close to Pooler (and S. Effingham & Richmond Hill, too), close to shopping and other “need-to-run-errands-after-class” places.

Classes will be at Risen Savior Lutheran Church (1755 Quacco Road) in their beautiful, spacious Fellowship Hall. Visit www.88keysga.com & click on the Kindermusik link to see specific class ages, themes and times. Online enrollment is NOW AVAILABLE!

Coming soon: in-house Kindermusik Studio

Soon Kindermusik will have their very OWN location, giving them the ability to offer classes whenever it’s convenient for YOU, not just their locations. Perks of the future spot include: plenty of space in a colorful, clean Kindermusik “NO SHOES” room, state of the art sound, free wifi, a comfortable waiting room and a nice set up for nursing mothers.

At the studio, Kindermusik will eventually offer one-time playdates as YOU request them, musical birthday parties, private music lessons throughout the
week; free DEMO classes for prospective visitors; weekend and later afternoon classes, preschool and school aged Kindermusik classes, baby
changing and restroom facilities.

Stay connected by signing up for Kindermusik’s e-mail list (visit www.88keysga.com  – click on the Kindermusik link)

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

The Pooler MOPS will be hosting their Annual Pre-school/School/Homeschooling Fair on Wednesday, January 22, 2014, from 9:30 – 11:30 AM at the First Presbyterian Church of Pooler.

If a family is looking for education options for their little ones in the Savannah/Pooler/Rincon area, this is the event to attend. The following schools/organizations have confirmed plans to attend: Veritas Academy, The Habersham School, First Steps in Rincon, Risen Savior, Savannah Classical Academy, The Learning Treehouse in Rincon, a public school representative for answering questions about the lottery and the public school options, Jewish Educational Alliance, Babies Can’t Wait(Early Intervention program), Teach Right, Calvary, Scottish Rite Center at Armstrong, Classical Conversations homeschool group and more! There is going to be a representative from the Savannah-Chatham public school system.

This school fair is open to the public. You do not have to be a MOPS member to attend.

For more information about the Pooler MOPS Fair, check the Pooler MOPS Facebook page by clicking here or contact Christine Darulla at poolermops@gmail.com .

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. Free to members or with museum admission. Open to adults and children accompanied by an adult caregiver. More info available here.
Join us as we 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.
New to the wcwm? program is Family Make, in which participants are assigned a theme each month and a secret ingredient or tool to make art from the most unexpected materials. Before joining in one of our wcwm? theme challenges, check out these talking points and activities you can complete as a family.
February – Light things up with LEDs
Explore sculptural creations and make them light up using LEDs.
March – Color wheels
Explore color mixing and various properties of color.
April – Recycled crafts and community gardens
Explore crafts that re-purpose materials and make treasure from trash.

Toddler Third Thursday (3rd Thursday of every month)

10–11:30 am

Toddler Third Thursdays are great for parents, grandparents, and caregivers with pre-school children. Designed especially for preschoolers ages 3-5 and their adult companions,this program allows toddlers to explore artwork from Telfair exhibitions and complete a fun-filled art project relating to their tour. A different tour and project will be offered each month. Time to play in ArtZeum is included.
Feb 20 – Toddlers and Technology
Mar 20 – Temperature in Color
Apr 17 – Recycled Gardens

Registration and adult supervision required. Call 790-8823 or click here to register. Enrollment is $5 per child. Adult admission is FREE for museum-members and $12 for non-members. Sponsored in part by JCB, Inc.

Click here to register online for Toddler 3rd Thursday >>

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.

Family Days Telfair Museums family days are offered throughout the year. Enjoy music, artist demonstrations, hands-on art-making, and guided tours free of charge. Check here for themes, dates, times and locations.

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.

Stroller Strong Moms will have a Grand Opening in our new Pooler location this Thursday, January 9th! Don’t miss it!

Pooler moms will have a chance to enter Get Fit for 2013 which will begin with fitness and body composition assessments on January 16th at Tom Triplett Park in Pooler.

For more information, email info@strollerstrongmoms.com

Stroller Strong Moms, 12 East Park Ave. Savannah, 31401, email info@strollerstrongmoms.com , www.strollerstrongmoms.com Stroller  Strong Moms is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Dynamic new Savannah preschool, located at the Jewish Educational Alliance, is accepting enrollment for the 2014-2015 school year.

JEA Preschool Savannah will host an Open House for prospective and enrolled parents and caregivers on Wednesday, January 15 beginning at 9:30am.The new preschool, located at the Jewish Educational Alliance community center at 5111 Abercorn Street, serves children ages 16 months through 4 years.

During the event, parents will have an opportunity to meet preschool director Jodi Sadler and the faculty, as well see the classrooms in session. Please call 912-355-8111 (ext. 215) or email preschool@savj.org  for more information.

JEA Preschool Savannah was created to provide for the social, emotional and cognitive growth of young children in a Judaic setting. The age-appropriate curriculum, led by qualified and experienced teachers, focuses on literacy, writing, math, science, music, art and movement all within newly renovated facilities at the JEA.

“I am truly excited about the success of our program and its future,” said Sadler, director of JEA Preschool Savannah. “When parents and children walk into the school, I believe they see and feel two things: love and security. I know that the quality of the program, excellence of the facilities, and perfect location makes this one of the most attractive and vibrant programs in the area.”

The dynamic preschool includes spacious classrooms and an innovative outdoor space where children can explore, interact with and connect to the environment. The children also have the opportunity for extracurricular activities which include swimming, Crossfit for Kids, and outdoor exploration. The school is centrally located with easy parking and affordable tuition.

The preschool’s core curriculum is Mondays through Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Children have the option of attending two, three or five days per week. Extended hours are available daily from as early as 7 a.m. until 6 p.m. to serve the needs of working families. JEA Preschool Savannah is open to both JEA members and non members.

About JEA Preschool Savannah
JEA Preschool Savannah, located in the Jewish Educational Alliance community center at 5111 Abercorn Street, opened its doors in August 2013. The school, which serves the needs of children ages 16 months through 4 years, focuses on the social, emotional and cognitive growth of young children in a Judaic setting. The core curriculum, led by qualified and experienced teachers, is Mondays through Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Extended hours are available daily, beginning at 7 a.m. and ending at 6 p.m. For more information on JEA Preschool Savannah, please call 912-355-8111 (ext. 215), email preschool@savj.org  or visit www.savannahjea.org .

JEA Preschool Savannah is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Come out to Skidaway Island State Park to enjoy FREE kids’ nature activities most Wednesdays-Sundays during January & February 2014 including on Monday Feb. 17 Presidents’ Day . To see the complete list of FREE kids’ nature activities @ Skidaway Is. State Park during January 2014, click here.

To see the complete list of FREE kids’ nature activities @ Skidaway Is. State Park during January 2014, click here.

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

Come out to Skidaway Island State Park to enjoy FREE kids’ nature activities most Wednesdays-Sundays during December & on New Year’s Day 2014 .  To see the complete list of FREE kids’ nature activities @ Skidaway Is. State Park during November 2013, click here.

This months highlights include:

* Toddler Time  on Thursdays : Stories, games, and learning designed for 2-4 year olds. See upcoming times & themes here..

* Friday, December 20th: 6 to 8 PM: Luminary Night with Santa
Bring your children and pets for pictures with Santa. Enjoy a walk along our enchanted luminary trail and take a hayride around the park. Sip on hot chocolate while decorating cookies and making holiday crafts., $5 per picture, hayrides $2.

* Wednesday, January 1:
2:00PM Skidaway Island First Day Hike: Take a guided tour of the marsh through our Sandpiper Trail with a park ranger. Plan for about an hour on this one mile hike, where you will learn about life in a Georgia marsh.

To see the complete list of FREE kids’ nature activities @ Skidaway Is. State Park during December 2013 & on New Year’s Day 2013, click here.

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

Visit the Scribble Art Studio blog through December 2013 for handmade ornament ideas & templates. Perfect to do with the kids. Click here to read Scribble’s blog.

Scribble Art Studio gift certificates for art lessons and art kits make ideal, creative holiday gifts for kids. Gift certificates are available for group or private lessons, plus parties. Art kits contain a variety of Scribble artists’ favorite art supplies and are a great gift for all ages.

Scribble Art Studio offers children’s art classes & art birthday parties in Savannah & Pooler.

Scribble also now offers at-home Princess Parties! Princes Maggie Lee Hart will bring everything needed for a fun & magical birthday party. Create wearable crafts & learn a royal song & dance. Details here.

Scribble Art Studio, 212 E. 37th St Savannah, 31401, (912) 713-7376 email info@thescribbleartstudio.com , www.TheScribbleArtStudio.com , Scribble Art Studio is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

FOR MORE LOCAL HOLIDAY EVENTS, CLICK HERE.

You’re invited to Maggie’s Morning School McTeacher’s Night” @ McDonald’s on Eisenhower and Waters in Savannah.
Tuesday, November 19
5-8 p.m.
The  3rd annual McDonald’s McTeachers Night will include facepainting, a play space, and raffle prizes! 20% of all sales between 5 and 8pm are donated to Maggie’s Morning School. Kids can see their teachers work the counter & visit with other families.

Maggie’s Morning School is a NAEYC accredited private, non-profit pre-school at 6610 Abercorn St., Savannah, 31405.

Mission Maggie’s Morning School provides a developmentally appropriate, quality learning experience for a diverse student body in a safe, creative, and nurturing environment. The focus is on the social, emotional, physical, and intellectual growth of each and every child through hands on activities and support by working together with families, well-trained teachers, and community resources.

Description Maggie’s Morning School has been serving Savannah since 1982. The school has 2, 3, and 5 half day and full day programs for children 18 months (by Sept. 1) through age four, and the Bright From the Start, Georgia Department of Early Care and Learning Pre-Kindergarten program. Maggie’s provides an exceptional and unique learning environment in order to facilitate social, emotional, physical and intellectual development in each child.

For the school year, Maggie’s serves children ages 18 months (by Sept 1) through 3 classes of State-Funded (FREE) Pre-K. Maggie’s Morning School in Savannah offers part-time preschool for 4-year-olds.

Call (912) 352-8404 or (912) 352-8065 for more info or click here. Tell them SouthernMamas.com sent you!

Stay connected by “liking” Maggie’s Morning School on Facebook here.

Maggie’s Morning School, 6610 Abercorn St., Savannah, 31405, www.maggiesmorningschool.org,  On Facebook here. (912) 352-8404, (912) 352-8065 Maggie’s Morning School is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Harvest Dinner @  St. Andrew’s School on Wilmington Island

Friday, November 22
6:00 PM

Eat In or Take Out

$15/person

Chicken Tetrazzini, Veggies & Dessert

(Vegetarian Available)

St. Andrew’s new dining partner, Thrive Cafe, is preparing a slow cooked, farm to table meal with dessert provided by Rainy Day Bakery. Entertainment by St. Andrew’s student vocalists. All proceeds to benefit Children Inspiring Hope, a non-profit founded by St. Andrew’s Alum, Amy Gaylor, which seeks to help students develop intercultural understandings and respect through school partnerships in the United States and Ghana. Learn more at http://www.childreninspiringhope.org

Reserve your spot for dinner online by clicking here.

Thrive Café provides all student & faculty meals at St. Andrew’s School, a private independent school. The partnership is designed to bring healthy, affordable food to the Pre K – Grade 12 school on a daily basis.

St. Andrew’s School, 601 Penn Waller Road, Savannah, 31410, www.saintschool.com St. Andrew’s School is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

Have you taken your kids to see an Angela Beasley’s Puppet People show yet? It’s a Savannah tradition. Here’s a chance to do so.

You’re invited to Puppet People’s End of Year Puppet Workshops & Shows at The Puppet Place in Thunderbolt

December 26, 27, 28, 30 & 31 @ 11:00 AM

Bring your children to the Puppet People’s World of Let’s Pretend! Your children will have a wonderful time learning how to make their own puppet which will be followed by a wonderful and entertaining Puppet Show.

Children $10 Adults $5

Book your seat since space is limited. Organizers are expecting a huge response from this amazing event. More details here.

Contact 912.355.3366,  email puppets@puppetpeople.com or visit www.PuppetPeople.com

Puppet People, 912.355.3366, www.PuppetPeople.com, email puppets@puppetpeople.com,  3119 Furber Ave. , Thunderbolt, 31404  Puppet People is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

FOR MORE LOCAL HOLIDAY EVENTS, CLICK HERE.

Come out to Skidaway Island State Park to enjoy FREE kids’ nature activities most Wednesdays-Sundays during November .  To see the complete list of FREE kids’ nature activities @ Skidaway Is. State Park during November 2013, click here.

This months highlights include:

* Toddler Time at 10 AM on Thursdays : Stories, games, and learning designed for 2-4 year olds. This upcoming week’s theme is birds . See upcoming themes here..

* SMORES & STORIES AROUND THE CAMPFIRE: 6 PM FRI. Nov. 8 Campfire:  Meet and greet fellow park visitors for Smores and stories around the campfire. Meet at Amphitheatre across from Picnic Shelter 4.

* Owl Programs at 2 PM Wed. Nov. 6 & 6 PM Sat. Nov. 23.

To see the complete list of FREE kids’ nature activities @ Skidaway Is. State Park during November 2013, click here.

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

The Savannah Mall’s latest addition, the 15,000 square-foot Safari Playhouse and Mini Golf, will open to the community Nov 15 – just in time for cool weather.

The playhouse offers 13,000 square feet of wilderness themed soft play area, an 18-hole miniature golf course, full arcade and snack bar.

For more information about the Savannah Mall, please visit savannahmall.com or call 912-927-7467.

The Savannah Mall, 14045 Abercorn Street, www.savannahmall.com , 912-927-7467. The Savannah Mall is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

Don’t miss the Little Lambs Consignment Sale this Friday & Saturday Oct. 25-26 benefitting First Presbyterian Preschool on Washington Avenue in Savannah’s Ardsley Park.

Sale items include FALL/WINTER clothing (sizes NB to 14) and other children’s items including shoes, accessories, bedding, art work, baby necessities, maternity clothing and more!

Like Little Lambs on Facebook by clicking here!

Sale location
First Presbyterian Church
520 Washington Avenue
Savannah, GA

Sale dates
Thursday, Oct. 24, 5:30-7:30 PM– Preview sale for volunteers and sellers only
Sale opens to the public Friday, Oct. 25 and Saturday, Oct. 26 2013.

9 AM-2 PM, 5:30-7:30 PM Fri. Oct. 25

9 AM -Noon Sat. Oct. 26

Little Lambs Fall 2013 Consignment Sale, First Presbyterian Preschool, 520 Washington Ave., Savannah, http://fpcschool.com/little-lambs/ On Facebook here.

There are 3 Special Costume Storytimes scheduled next week @ the following Live Oak Public Library branches:

Special Costume Storytimes   

Tybee Island Library,786-7733 Tuesday, Oct. 29, 11 a.m. Children ages 0 to 5 are encouraged to wear their Halloween costumes to this storytime.

Thunderbolt Library, 354-5864 Tuesday, Oct. 29, 11 a.m. Children ages 0 to 5 are encouraged to wear their Halloween costumes to this storytime.

Pooler Library, 748-0471 Wednesday, Oct. 30, 10:30 a.m. Children ages 0 to 5 are encouraged to wear their Halloween costumes to this storytime.

FOR MORE LOCAL HALLOWEEN KIDS’ EVENTS, CLICK HERE.

This sounds like something not to be missed for those of us with beginning readers: a free presentation on “What every early childhood parent should know about how to encourage early literacy”.

When: Fri. Nov. 1, 9:15 AM Coffee with Meet and Greet; 10 AM Presentation.

Where: St. Andrew’s School, 601 Penn Waller Road, Savannah (Wilmington Island) 31410

About the presenter:

Tricia Yates is a prekindergarten teacher and literacy leaders at St. Andrew’s School. She holds a bachelor’s degree in elementary and early childhood education, a master’s degree in reading and has 18 years of experience as a Title 1 Reading Coordinator working with early childhood through 12th grade students.

This informative session will focus on an overview of literacy development in early childhood, including resources and strategies to give your child the building blocks to develop strong reading skills and a love for literacy.

RSVP to Christine Sapp, email sappc@saintschool.com or call 912.897.4941 ext 400.

St. Andrew’s, a Pre-K through Grade 12 independent school, is located on Wilmington Island. For more information on the Savannah private International Baccalaureate World School visit www.saintschool.com

St. Andrew’s School, 601 Penn Waller Road, Savannah, 31410, www.saintschool.com St. Andrew’s School is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

Dynamic new preschool, located at the Jewish Educational Alliance in Savannah

JEA Preschool Savannah will add a two day a week program for 16 month olds through two year olds on Tuesday and Thursday to its current preschool schedule. The new preschool, located at the Jewish Educational Alliance community center at 5111 Abercorn Street, opened its doors in August to serve young children and their families by providing premiere preschool programming.

JEA Preschool Savannah was created to provide for the social, emotional and cognitive growth of young children in a Judaic setting. The age-appropriate curriculum, led by qualified and experienced teachers, will focus on literacy, writing, math, science, music, art and movement all within the special facilities of the JEA.

The dynamic preschool includes spacious classrooms and an innovative outdoor space where children can explore, interact with and connect to the environment. The preschool’s core curriculum will be available Mondays through Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Extended hours are available daily as early as 7 a.m. and until 6 p.m. to serve the needs of working families. JEA Preschool Savannah is open to both JEA members and non members.

About JEA Preschool Savannah
JEA Preschool Savannah, located in the Jewish Educational Alliance community center at 5111 Abercorn Street, opened its doors in August 2013. The school, which serves the needs of children ages 16 months through 4 years, focuses on the social, emotional and cognitive growth of young children in a Judaic setting. The core curriculum, led by qualified and experienced teachers, is available Mondays through Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Extended hours are available daily from 7 a.m. to 8:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. For more information on JEA Preschool Savannah, please call 912-355-8111 (ext. 228), email preschool@savj.org or visit www.savannahjea.org.

JEA Preschool Savannah, 5111 Abercorn St., Savannah, www.savannahjea.org, 912-355-8111 (ext. 228), email preschool@savj.org JEA Preschool is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

Dr. Kelley Waldron, Lower School Head

St. Andrew’s School on Wilmington Island has many features that we love. One that really makes us swoon here at SouthernMamas.com is how cleverly the school incorporates technology into the classroom. Which is why it wasn’t surprising last school year when St. Andrew’s was named Apple Distinguished School for the 2012-13 academic year for its use of the iPad and Apple technology as tools to create a relevant and engaging school experience for its students.

The Apple Distinguished School designation is reserved for schools that excel in areas of innovation, leadership and educational excellence, and demonstrate Apple’s shared vision of exemplary learning environments.

St. Andrew’s has implemented iPad usage for all of its students, pre-K through 12th-grade.

As Dr. Kelley Waldron, Lower School Head, said:
“The iPad is never a replacement for best practices or seen as the curriculum- it is a tool in the classroom. The value of this tool is that it allows teachers to differentiate instruction by offering extra challenge to a student ready to move on, or reinforcement of a skill or concept for a student who needs the extra time to understand and master it. The best apps engage students in variety of learning modalities- asking them to solve problems, kinesthetically move letters or numbers, engage creatively with the content, and work in a self-paced fashion.”

So we asked St. Andrew’s teachers to share some of the top apps they love. Here are their picks:

BB Magic Apps – Teach basic phonics, right to left reading and spelling, blending and sight words

Endless Alphabet App– Educational and entertaining at the same time

Tally Tots App – A counting app that offers 20 different activities

St. Andrew’s is an independent International Baccalaureate World School committed to being a leader in 21st Century teaching and learning, which includes a curricular focus on creativity, communication, critical thinking, collaboration, and character. For more information on the Pre-K 3 through Grade Twelve school, visit www.saintschool.com  or call 912.897.4941.

St. Andrew’s School, 601 Penn Waller Road, Savannah, 31410, www.saintschool.com St. Andrew’s School is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

Coach Val’s Tumblegym on Wilmington Is. is registering kids for 2013-2014 classes. Different classes offered for various ages from walkers to 8 year olds.

Lots of spaces still available in many of the classes.  New students can join at any time provided space available.

Visit schedule and rates page for updated information. LOTS of new classes offered including:

Wiggle Worms 30 mins/week walkers – 2 yrs accompanied by adult GrassHoppers 45 mins/wk 2 to 3 yrs accompanied by adult Bumble Bees 60 mins/week 3 to 4 yrs FireFlies 60 mins/week 4 to 6 yrs DragonFlies 60 mins/week 6 to 8 yrs

Call 912-268-6003 or email val@coachvals.com.

Birthday Parties
Leave the ENTERTAINMENT and MESS to Coach Val’s Tumblegym, which offers Birthday Parties customized to fit your child’s interests and theme. Good for ages 2 to 8 years old. Details here.

Classes are in a safe, air conditioned, bug-free environment! Tumblegym’s experienced staff will keep your little one moving while having a great time.

Coach Val’s Tumblegym provides fun, imaginative exercise programs for children walking through 10 yr olds. Their curriculum integrates physical skill acquisition with social and cognitive learning concepts. Basic gymnastics and tumbling, ball handling skills, strength, balance, and all around coordination activities part of every class.

Please “like” Coach Val’s Tumblegym on Facebook here to keep up with latest news and specials.

Gift Certificates available: What great way for grandparents and family members to give child gift that invests in child’s future and development.

See website here for schedule and rates. Registration online available by clicking here.

Mention you saw Coach Val’s Tumblegym on SouthernMamas.com site to receive $10 off your initial class fee..

Coach Val’s Tumblegym, 310 Johnny Mercer Blvd in the Wilmington Island Shopping Center (with Dollar Tree, Ace Hardware, and Goodwill) Tel: 912-268-6003, www.coachvals.com, On Facebook here. Coach Val’s Tumblegym is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

Looking for a Savannah preschool for next fall that has a proven history as a well-established, quality preschool? Check out First Christian Church Preschool, which was formed in 1952 by Carolyn S. Jordan and has been in continuous operation since that date.

The preschool – located on Victory Drive in the Savannah’s Ardsley Park –  now serves 15 mths to 4-year-old children and is in session from 9AM to noon Monday through Friday. First Christian Church members receive a 25% discount on tuition.

First Christian Preschool provides an environment that is warm and welcoming so that your child will feel safe and comfortable. Classrooms are bright and inviting so your child will be excited about learning and will be prepared for kindergarten. Most of all, your child will have a lot of fun and be involved in meaningful play. Play is a child’s “work” and it is through play that a child learns to be social, to solve problems, to be independent and to be creative.

The preschool employs the Unit Approach Curriculum. It is designed to meet appropriate skill levels for each age group.

The school offers a Spanish program called !Hola! as part of the curriculum for the 3 and 4-year-olds . Music is incorporated into daily activities in the classrooms

Children participate in two school-wide programs, one at Christmas and an end-of-the-year program. Newsletters, a fund raiser, carpool and lunch bunch, and early birds are other activities that are a part of the preschool program.

Some of the activities all of students participate in are:
Fall Festival
School Wide Pajama Party
Dessert with Daddy
Mother’s Day Tea
Graduation Program
Friday Morning Music

The preschool includes Christian principles in its program, teaching the children the Christian values of loving, sharing, being kind to one another

Visitors are welcome. First Christian Preschool staff  look forward to meeting you and your children.

For more information, please call Mrs. Sarah Marquez at 912-234-3149 or email firstchristianpreschool@yahoo.com

First Christian Preschool, 711 E. Victory Drive, Savannah, 31405, 912 234-3149,   https://www.facebook.com/pages/First-Christian-Preschool/153225621412477?fref=ts First Christian Preschool is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.