Author Archive

Savannah pediatrician: 5 Ways to Make Holidays Happier for Children with Different Abilities

Tuesday, December 19th, 2017

Savannah pediatricians Pediatric Associates Ben Spitalnik

Five Ways to Make Holidays Happier for Children with Different Abilities
By Dr. Ben Spitalnick of Pedatric Associates of Savannah

Every parent wants the holiday season to be a special, joyous time for their child, and parents of children with different abilities or special needs usually have to take a couple of extra steps to ensure the holidays are just that.
To help along the way, the Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society offers five tips to help make the holiday season run smoothly and keep your kids happy.

1. Prepare Your Child
Your child wants to know the plans for the holiday season as much as you do. To reduce stress and prepare your child for upcoming activities, explain what you’ll be doing, who will be there and what the schedule is for the day. Write down the schedule for them and include pictures.

2. Prepare Your Family
Remind your family of the needs of your child. If there are other little ones, ask their parents to talk to them about your child’s differences. This can help reduce confusion and will foster a sense of understanding. It might help, a few days before everyone gets together, to send family members an informational email with 10 things to know about your child.

3. Bring Familiar Toys
The holidays are a chaotic time. Familiarity will help your child remain calm and feel comfortable. Bring his or her favorite toy, book or something that soothes your child at home. When things get a little too crazy, that may help your child feel comfortable.

4. Ask For Help
Don’t feel guilty for asking for help. Every parent needs help, and you do too. Explain the needs of your child to another family member or two and ask them to step in when you need a break. Explain to your child, too, that this person will be playing with them or watching them for a few minutes while you are busy.

5. Let Your Child Help
Preparing for the holidays can be stressful, but if you let your child help, you can create family traditions and keep everyone a little happier. Give your child a task such as greeting everyone at the door or stirring the sauce. This will keep your child focused, reduce his or her stress levels and give you an extra hand.

To create a happier time of celebration, we encourage all parents of children with different abilities to prepare their little ones a bit extra this holiday season. These small proactive measures can do a lot to help your child adjust to large crowds, new situations and days off-schedule. We hope this will make your holiday season a little jollier.

Dr. Ben Spitalnick is managing partner of Pediatric Associates of Savannah and currently serves as Representative for the Savannah area to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Spitalnick is from North Atlanta and is a graduate of the University of Georgia, received his medical degree from MCG, and did his Pediatric Residency at Memorial Health University here in Savannah. He serves on the board of directors for the Lowcountry Down Syndrome Society.​

Pediatric Associates of Savannah, 4600 Waters Ave, Suite 100 Savannah, 31404-6702, (912) 355-2462, www.pedsav.com On Facebook here.  Pediatric Associates of Savannah is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Free Kindermusik: Win a whole month of January Kindermusik Savannah

Monday, December 18th, 2017

Kindermusik savannah toddlers preschoolers mommy & Me When it comes to fostering your child’s development, you’ve got to strike while the iron’s hot!

And it’s never too early to nurture that curiosity and love for music.

Kindermusik Savannah with 88 Keys is here to help, by offering one whole month of free Kindermusik classes and materials to a winning child (ages 0-7) this January.

Come see why Kindermusik with 88 Keys Piano has been offering a five-star experience to families all over the Coastal Empire for over 15 years!

Enter your child at kindermusikwith88keys.com. One winner will be chosen on December 30.

Kindermusik Savannah, kindermusikwith88keys.com,  email music@kindermusikwith88keys.com or info@kindermusikwith88keys.com, 912.988.KEYS (5397) Kindermusik is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Mommy & Me Playdates & Cheer Camp during Holiday Break @ Savannah Sharks gym

Friday, December 15th, 2017

Savannah Sharks toddler gym Mommy Me playdates

Savannah Sharks in Savannah in open next week Dec. 18-22 2017 for their regular events but closed Dec. 23-27 2017 & Jan. 1 2018.

Special events during holiday break

* Parent & Me Playdate on Fri. Dec. 29 2017 10:30AM-Noon. For crawlers to age 4. Cost: $8 per session.  Siblings are free. Learn more here. 

These “play dates” are an unstructured play time with our toys,swings,slides,bouncy house and more. It is great way to get your child out the house and around other children in a safe and fun environment.

An adult is required to be present to supervise your child at all times as supervision is not provided.

* Holiday Cheer & Tumble Camp Thurs. Dec. 28 2017, 9AM-2PM Cost: $45 For ages 4-12 (bring water bottle, lunch & wear comfy clothes)

Stay connected by liking Savannah Sharks on Facebook here. 

Savannah Sharks gym
1686 E. President St
Savannah GA 31404
(912) 335-2234

Savannah Sharks Cheerleading and Tumbling, (912) 335-2234, 1686 E President St, Savannah, GA 31404
email savsharks@gmail.com Savannah Sharks is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Savannah schools: Open House at Saint Peter the Apostle Catholic School

Friday, December 15th, 2017

School searching in Savannah?

Come to an open house  to see all that St. Peter the Apostle School on Wilmington Island in Savannah on Sunday Jan. 28 10AM-1PM.

The beautiful 10-acre campus includes a Lower School, Middle School, two gymnasiums, football field, practice field, and a state-of-the-art playground.

St. Peter’s offers full day faith-based instruction for students from three years old through 8th grade.

Following the traditions of the Sisters of Mercy, the school educates through a strong academic program and instills in its students a spirit of mercy, justice and loving concern.

Open House

Sun. Jan. 28 2018,  10AM-1PM

This will be an opportunity to meet and greet teachers, tour the school facilities, and get to experience all that the Saint Peter’s community has to offer.

Learn more here.

Location

The school is easily accessible from Whitemarsh Island, the Truman Parkway, mid-town Savannah and Tybee Island. It’s located just off Highway 80 East (Victory Drive), not far from Thunderbolt.

St. Peter the Apostle School
7020 Concord Rd.
Savannah, GA 31410
Phone: 912-897-5224
Fax: 912-897-0801

For more information, visit www.school.saintpetertheapostle.com

St. Peter the Apostle School, www.school.saintpetertheapostle.com,  7020 Concord Rd., Savannah, 31410, 912-897-5224,  On Facebook here. On Twitter here. St. Peter the Apostle School is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser. 

Savannah Holidays 2017: Find creative gifts, workshops for kids @ Henny Penny

Wednesday, December 13th, 2017

Savannah holiday Christmas gifts Henny Penny children's gifts

Henny Penny Art Space & Cafe  has lots of creative fun during December.

Kids can make Super Hero Dad Portraits this Saturday Dec. 16 2017, 3-4:30PM. Cost: $20. All ages. Materials provided. Please register your child in advance as space is limited. Call 912-713-7376 or email info@thescribbleartstudio.com to register for this adorable workshop.

Find unique gifts for kids @ Henny Penny including:

*$25 Monthly Unlimited Pass at Henny Penny

*Child Size Easel & Apron, $45

Henny Penny Art Space & Cafe also offers Pretend Play, special Saturday Workshops, Play-doh Playdates, Homeschool Meetups, Mommy & Me Crafting, Petite Picassos and storytimes.

See the Dec. 2017 Henny Penny options here. 

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About Henny Penny 

Henny Penny is located at 1514 Bull St. Savannah.

Nestled just blocks from Forsyth Park, Henny Penny Art Space and Cafe also provides custom-designed arts and crafts kits for all ages, workshops, classes, and is available for booking birthday parties.

Foxy Loxy Cafe & Scribble Art Studio opened Henny Penny earlier this year.

Scribble Art Studio is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser 

 

Savannah schools: St. Andrew’s students give back this December

Tuesday, December 12th, 2017

St. Andrew's School Savannah private schools St. Andrew’s School  5th & 6th grade students headed to Target on Victory Drive to shop for children in Chatham County. The gifts will be delivered to The Salvation Army as part of the Angel Tree project.

“Every child should have a gift to open at the holidays,” said Jesse Lazzuri, Head of the St. Andrew’s Middle School.  “This event is a wonderful way to end our first semester at St. Andrew’s.  We are committed to providing meaningful service opportunities here at home.”

The annual tradition takes place on the last day of fall semester. It’s an event that the students & teachers look forward to each year.

Prior to the shopping excursion, students performed chores for friends & family to raise the needed funds. All monies are then collected in anticipation of the big shopping adventure.  Finally, each student shops for one child based on age & interest.

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About St. Andrew’s

St. Andrew’s is a college preparatory school for Pre-K3 through Grade 12 located on Wilmington Island, Savannah.

The independent school is an International Baccalaureate World School and has been recognized
for the past five years as an Apple Distinguished School. St. Andrew’s School was named best Savannah private school in Savannah Magazine in 2016.

For more information, visit saslions.com or call 897.4941.

St. Andrew’s School, 601 Penn Waller Rd, Savannah, 31410. 912.897.4941, www.saintschool.com , email admission@saintschool.com  On Facebook here.   On Twitter here. St. Andrew’s is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

Hilton Head holiday events: Disney’s Newsies onstage @ Arts Center of Coastal Carolina

Tuesday, December 12th, 2017

Newsies Savannah Hilton Head musical

The clear sign that your kids liked the musical you took them to: they add the cast recording to their Christmas list the next day.

That’s what happened after my children – ages 11 & 9 – saw Disney’s Newsies @ Arts Center of Coastal Carolina on Hilton Head Is. They loved it and so did I.

Newsies is onstage through Dec. 31. Based on the 1992 Disney film starring Christian Bale, Newsies the musical is appropriate for elementary-age children and older, who are old enough to sit through a two-hour production (there is an intermission.)

Packed with so much talented tap-dancing, acrobatics, tumbling throughout the entire production – not just the show-stopping number “Seize the Day” – this musical is the perfect high-energy, spirited show to take the kids to over holiday break.

For those who live in the Savannah area, Arts Center of Coastal Carolina is located mid-island near Palmetto Dunes and Shelter Cove Towne Center – making it about an hour drive from Savannah. (Stop by ‘Tis the Season holiday lights & entertainment Shelter Cove Towne Center. Lights are on nightly until Dec. 30, 5:30-9PM)

Buy tickets at the Box Office 843-842-2787 or online here.

Tickets are $59 for adults and $46 for children.

Fresh off its First National Tour, the Arts Center is thrilled to produce the Carolinas’ premiere of Newsies, with jubilant music by Alan Menken and book by Harvey Fierstein, features high-flying dance with everything from tumbling to tap. Set in New York City at the turn of the century and inspired by the real-life Newsboys strike of 1899, Newsies is about a charismatic newsboy who dreams of a better life far from the streets.

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Arts Center of Coastal Carolina
14 Shelter Cove Lane (located mid-Island)
843-842-ARTS (2787)
www.artshhi.com

Savannah schools: Applications available Feb. 20 for free, lottery-funded Pre-K for 2018-19

Tuesday, December 12th, 2017

PreK Savannah Public Schools Chatham County

Free, lottery-funded Pre-K for 2018-2019 school year

This free, state-funded Pre-K at some Savannah-Chatham public schools is open to all children who are 4 years old on or before Sept. 1 residing in Chatham County.

The Savannah-Chatham County Public School System has 61 Georgia Lottery funded Pre-K classes.  See the list of Savannah-Chatham public schools that offer the free Pre-K here.

Pre-K applications for the free, lottery-funded Pre-K programs for 2018-19 at Savannah-Chatham County public schools will be available online here Tuesday, February 20-March 6, 2018.
The 2018-2019 Lottery will run on Tuesday, April 3, 2018.

This free, state-funded Pre-K is open to all children who are 4 years old on or by Sept. 1. Details here. 

Some Savannah private preschools and childcare facilities also offer the state-funded, free Pre-K program and have different application deadlines. Please contact those facilities for their application deadlines.

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Application period closed for grades kindergarten & older for Savannah-Chatham public schools 

The Savannah-Chatham County Public School System offers 24 Choice Programs  (formerly called specialty schools) throughout the district.

The application process for the 2018-19 school year opens Jan. 6 2018 & closed Jan. 28 2018. Lottery notification is March 6 2018. Applications will be available online here.

Learn more about the various programs available & application dates here.

For information about the programs offered and the application/lottery process, visit the Choice Program Guide for information on eligibility criteria, the lottery process, frequently asked questions, and descriptions of each choice program. Contact information for each school can be found under the Site List tab.

 

Free for ages 12 & younger: Drop-In Studio @ Telfair Museums’ Jepson Center, Savannah

Tuesday, December 12th, 2017

Jepson Center for the Arts Telfair Museums Savannah

Winter Holiday School Break 2017 is the perfect time to visit Telfair Museums’ Jepson Center of the Arts in Savannah.

Remember: museum admission is always free for children ages 12 & younger.

Technology & Art Gallery 
Daily during museum hours
Kids’ can interact with technology at the Jepson Center for the Arts. Complementing the ArtZeum, the Jepson Center’s Technology and Art Gallery is a great place for visitors of all ages to explore interactive and new media art. This long-term rotating exhibit introduces viewers to new media works that use various types of video & computer processing.

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Jepson Center kids' activities Savannah

Drop-In Studio
Different project each month
Daily 1-4PM
Jepson Center
FREE with museum admission

Unleash your creativity in the Jepson Center studios every day for artmaking projects for all ages. Work at your own pace and comfort level. Each month features a special project designed to connect with a specific exhibition at the museum. A studio assistant is always on-hand to answer questions and assist guests. Drop-In Studio is open all year round & perfect for all ages. Children must be accompanied by an adult caregiver.

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Coming in January 2018

FREE PULSE Art & Technology Festival

One of Telfair Museums’ most exciting events, the PULSE Art + Technology Festival, returns for its twelfth year with artworks highlighting virtual and augmented reality, engaging lectures and performances and a special film screening that celebrates women in engineering.

This interactive and wildly inventive event for all ages, PULSE takes place at the Jepson Center from January 17-21, 2018.

PULSE will include an evening focused on STEAM education with a free, all-ages screening of the new documentary film Dream Big, which highlights female engineers making the world a better place.

Avery Bang, a distinguished engineer featured in the film, will participate in a question and answer panel after the screening. Elementary through college-age students can also enjoy two free morning programs of exciting presentations and dialogue with creatives working in tech fields from VR to coding and video games.

PULSE kids’ highlights include:

Thurs. Jan. 18, 6PM: FREE Screening & lecture: Dream Big: Engineering Our World and panel discussion with Avery Bang, sponsored by the Society of Women Engineers and Tharpe Engineering Group. Free admission.

Sat. Jan. 20, 1–4PM: Chatham County Free Family Day/STEAM Expo/2PM Virtual Reality Performance by The Glad Scientist.

All PULSE events are free to students with valid student IDs and Chatham County residents with proof of residency, except for the opening night lecture and performance (which are free to museum members, $8 admission for non-members). Without a valid student or Chatham County ID, regular museum admission is required for entrance.

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Art Start: Stroller and Toddler Tours
3rd Thursday of Every Month
10:30-11:30AM
$5 per child / adult members free / adult non-members $12

Start your day with art with our new and combined programs! Once a month, our youngest patrons are invited to the museum for story time, a special tour, and an art activity. Strollers, crying babies, toddlers, and older siblings are all welcome here. Come play and learn with us!

Thurs. Jan. 18 theme: PULSE

Thurs. Feb. 15 theme: Bonaventure

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JEPSON CENTER
207 W. York St. Savannah, 31401

Jepson Center for the Arts, 912-790-8800 or visit www.telfair.org. Telfair Museums is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Savannah Holiday Camps 2017: All Sports Camp for ages 4-10

Monday, December 11th, 2017

Sports Holiday Camp Savannah 2017

Here’s how you can get your work or holiday shopping done during school holiday break while the kids have fun: All Sports Camp in Savannah, 9AM-Noon, Dec. 18-22 2017.

All Sports Camp in Savannah will feature activities that children between the ages of 4 and 10 love including Sweet Feet activities, basketball, cooperative games, tag games, soccer, volleyball, football, and many more.

Well-known Savannah Sweet Feet Coach Brad Nein and his group of highly trained coaches will have a daily theme with fun contests and games promoting physical activity and healthy habits for a lifetime.

Register your child between the ages of 4 and 10 for the camp online here. 

Camp registration fee is $125. All activities will take place inside the St. Paul’s Gymnasium (10 W. 31st. St., Savannah, GA 31401).

This camp has been designed with you in mind. The hope is it will simplify your life by allowing you to attend to your work schedule, get your final holiday shopping complete, decorations hung, or simply catch your breath leading up to your families various events.

Please contact Coach Brad with all questions at 912-257-3989 or email Brad.SP360@gmail.com.

All Sports Camp in Savannah is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser 

Things to do with toddlers in Savannah: Kindermusik bell-themed playdates

Monday, December 11th, 2017

Kindermusik toddlers activities Savannah preschoolers

THIS IS THE WEEK!

Kindermusik  playdates with 88 Keys Piano are this Wed. Dec. 13 & Sat. Dec. 16 2017 at 10AM.

Join Kindermusik for a bell-themed musical adventure, with music, instruments, movement, stories and more!

At the end of class, each participant gets an instrument to keep, 10 Kindermusik songs, and a coupon for our weekly classes.

Playdate is open to 0-7 year olds and their caregivers. Cost is $15/child and siblings pay only $5.

Enroll online at kindermusikwith88keys.com. 912-988-KEYS.

FREE Kindermusik 

Kindermusik is giving away one WHOLE MONTH of January Kindermusik for FREE. The winner will be chosen on Dec. 30 2017. Register your child at kindermusikwith88keys.com.

Holiday Evening Tours by Candlelight @ Davenport House Museum, Savannah

Monday, December 11th, 2017

Holiday Candlelight Tours Davenport Museum Savannah 2017Show your kids how the holidays were celebrated in the 19th century in Savannah.

Holiday Evening Tours by Candlelight @ Davenport House Museum, Savannah will be offered Dec. 26-30 2017, 6-8:30PM.

The house museum will be open for evening tours exploring the December celebrations of the early 19th century inhabitants of the fine brick home on Columbia Square.

Topics will include the meaning of the season, feasting, the Scottish influence on the family, festive attire, treatment of household slaves during holiday time, etc.

The Dining Room table will be set for an intimate adult meal for the New Year’s Day celebration and the Drawing Room will be set as if preparing for a dance. Conversations will spotlight music and festive treats including cakes, jellies and syllabub.

Docents will don authentic early 19th century costume.

A demonstration of early 19th century dance will end the program each evening

The experience requires that guests be able to walk up and down stairs and maneuver in the candlelit rooms.

Purchase tickets online here.

Davenport House Museum, 324 E. State Street, Savannah, 31401, 912-236-8097, info@davenporthousemuseum.org ,www.davenporthousemuseum.org

Savannah Giveaway: Passes to Skatefest from Dogwood Pediatric Dentistry

Sunday, December 10th, 2017

Giveaway Skatefest Dogwood Pediatric Dentistry Savannah dentists

Dogwood Pediatric Dentistry in Savannah is doing a holiday giveaway you don’t want to miss.

Dogwood is giving away two six session passes to Skatefest 2017 @ Savannah Civic Center. Giveaway will end Wed. Dec. 13 2017. To enter to win, visit Dogwood Pediatric Dentistry Facebook page; ‘like’ the giveaway post on the page; share it; & comment on the post.

Skatefest ice-skating inside Savannah Civic Center is through Jan. 1 2018. Skate-rental included. See the Skatefest schedule here. 

About Dogwood Pediatric Dentistry

Krista Hinchey Savannah dentists pediatric

Dr. Krista Hinchey at Dogwood Pediatric Dentistry, Savannah

Dogwood Pediatric Dentistry of Savannah specializes in children. Board-certified pediatric dentist Dr. Krista Hinchey and her team are experts on the growing smile.

Dogwood Pediatric Dentistry accepts the following insurance: Amerigroup, CareSource, PeachState and Well Care (these are all Georgia Medicaid) The other main ones accepted @ Dogwood are United Concordia/Tricare (military), Ameritas, MetLife and Cigna. 

Stay connected with Dogwood Pediatric Dentistry and learn more about this new Savannah pediatric dentist practice by liking the practice on Facebook here. 

Dogwood Pediatric Dentistry, www.dogwoodsmiles.com, 4849 Paulsen St., Suite 101, Savannah 31405, 912-298-KIDS (5437), email admin@dogwoodsmiles.com. Dogwood Pediatric Dentistry is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser 

Savannah schools: Savannah Christian Preparatory School receives 3 educational accolades

Friday, December 8th, 2017

Savannah Christian Preparatory School Savannah private schools

Savannah Christian Preparatory School has a lot to celebrate.

The private,  non-denominational PK-12 college prep Christian school was recognized as a National Blue Ribbon School in 2011, 2014 & 2017 & named Best Private School in Savannah Magazine in 2013, 2014, 2015 & 2017.

SCPS teacher Tracy Brown was named Georgia’s 2017 Teacher of the Year.

If all that good news inspires you to want to learn more about Savannah Christian Preparatory School, come to one of the school’s Welcome Home Wednesday open houses.

Register for a Welcome Home Wednesday open house online here.  Or email Debbie Fairbanks, Director of Admissions at dfairbanks@savcps.com or call the admissions’ office at 912.721.2114.

Welcome Home Wednesday open houses begin at 9:30AM and will last between 60-90 minutes. The open house starts at the admissions’ office, which is the first building on the left on the Chatham Parkway campus.

What can you expect at a Welcome Home Wednesday?  Parents can expect a brief school overview followed by a tour with personal interaction with teachers, administrators, and students.  If a Welcome Home Wednesday event date is not convenient, please schedule a personal meeting and tour for you when you are available.

Learn more here. 

Welcome Home Wednesday Open Houses 
9:30AM @ Savannah Christian Preparatory School
Jan. 10 2018
Jan. 24 2018
Feb. 14 2018

Savannah Christian Preparatory School,  (912) 234-1653, www.savcps.com, On Facebook hereOn Twitter here.  Follow SCPS on Instagram at savannahchristianprep   Savannah Christian Preparatory School is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser 

 

Savannah Holiday Camps 2017: Scribble Art Studio Holiday Camp

Friday, December 8th, 2017

Savannah Holiday Camps 2017 Scribble Art Studio

Yes you can get everything done this holiday season – thanks to Holiday Camp at Scribble Art Studio in Savannah.

This December 2017, drop your child off @ Scribble Art Studio @ 212 E. 37th St. Savannah to do some holiday art while you take care of errands, shopping or cooking.

Holiday Camp 2017 is Dec. 18-21, 10AM-1PM. Cost: $35 per day. 

Find details here. 

For more info, call 912-713-7376.

Scribble Art Studio, 212 E. 37th St. Savannah, GA 31401. Scribble 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 email info@thescribbleartstudio.com  . Click here for more info. Scribble Art Studio is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Savannah Holidays 2017: Holiday Princess Party @ Westin Savannah

Thursday, December 7th, 2017

Enchant My Party Holiday Princess 2017 Westin Savannah

Get those tiaras ready for the Holiday Princess Party, hosted by Enchant My Party and The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa this Sat. Dec.9, 11AM-1PM.

The Holiday Princess Party @ the Westin Savannah features your child’s favorite princesses and includes apple juice, tea-sandwiches, donuts, fruit and sweet teas inside the Grand Ballroom of the Westin Savannah Harbor. Little ones are encouraged to dress like their favorite princess and they’ll have the chance to meet the Enchant My Party Princesses.

Children and adult admission, $25. Purchase tickets online here. 
Children 3 & younger free

Proceeds support children’s charities.

The Westin Savannah Harbor Golf Resort & Spa (Hutchinson Is.)
1 Resort Dr, Savannah, Georgia 31421

About Enchant My Party

Enchant My Party provides character entertainment for birthday parties, fundraisers, grand openings and more. Every party is unique and it is our mission to provide exceptional service and bring quality entertainment to your child’s party. All of our cast members have strong musical theater backgrounds and love working with children.

Enchant My Party, www.enchantmyparty.com, Savannah, Ga.  912.713.1253, email renee@enchantmyparty.comEnchant My Party is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

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Savannah holidays 2017: Savannah’s best home holiday lights displays

Wednesday, December 6th, 2017

Best Home Holiday Christmas Lights Displays Pooler

Driving around Savannah, Pooler & Richmond Hill looking at home holiday light displays and decorations is a favorite family tradition.

From colossal Santa snow globes to computerized Christmas lights animated with music, we have your guide to local home holiday light displays.

Kids especially love those computerized “dancing” lights display animated with music. Lights choreographed to blink, twink and fade in red, blue, green and white, in sync with a custom-mixed soundtrack of holiday tunes.

Want to add a home lights display to this list? Please email us the info at anne@southernmamas.com

Confirmed 2017 displays

*9 Yorkshire Place
Kingswood subdivision
Savannah, 31406
Display is on nightly dusk til 9:30PM
Classic light display with inflatables with handmade Santa sleigh. Classic Christmas music playing in the yard if you listen closely.

*165 Bald Cypress Lane (off Little Neck Road about five miles from Compassion Christian Church)
Bloomingdale, Ga. 31302
Display is on dusk until 9:30PM nightly (unless raining)  The animated part of this display is on channel 99.9FM. Please park on the side of the road with the display. You are welcome to walk along the side of the road.

*45 Shelton Street
Creekside community
Richmond Hill, GA
Sponsored by Horizon Home Builders of Savannah.
Display will play nightly from 6-10PM until New Years Eve.

* 202 Blue Marlin Dr. 
Seagate subdivision, Whitemarsh Island.
Display is on from about 6PM- 10PM through January 1 2018.

*40 Long Creek Lane
Richmond Hill GA 31324
Synchronized Christmas lights show featuring songs such as “Do You Want to Build A Snowman?” from “Frozen” and “You’re Welcome” from “Moana.” The show is around 90 minutes long and features over 20 songs that synch up with the lights decorating the house.  NOTE: We’ve been told this is a gated community so please make arrangements before making the trip. Learn more here.

Find more Richmond Hill home lights displays here.

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Not sure yet (If you know the status of any of these yet, please let us know via email at anne@southernmamas.com

701 Stuart St. off Waters Avenue. The huge collection of giant inflatable holiday decorations are back at 701 Stuart St. off Waters Avenue in Savannah.

24 Greatwood Way, Savannah, 31407 in the Highlands Subdivision (Godley Park). 28,000 lights, inflatables, archways of lights. Display is on nightly, 6PM till midnight

512 Gordonston Ave. Savannah: Old-fashioned holiday yard display that’s been a favorite for years.  On certain nights, they offer hot chocolate for visitors and even Santa visits.

Giant inflatable reindeer, Santa & abominable snowman ‘Bumble’ on Wilmington Island Road (not sure of exact address but about 10 homes down from Paula Deen’s home)

185 J. Hendley Ct., Richmond Hill

225 Red Oak Drive Richmond Hill, Ga 31314

154 Lake Dr Midway GA 31320. Light display is on weeknights until 10PM. Weekends until midnight .

116 N. Sheftall Circle on Wilmington Island. Roughly 40,000-50,000 lights.

504 E. 52 St, Ardsley Park

109 Wynngate Rd in Wilmington Park on Wilmington Island. (nearby are usually nice displays at 3 Lancaster and 106 Okatee and 110 Santee)

Want to add a home lights display to this list? Please email us the info at anne@southernmamas.com

Savannah Holidays 2017: Behold Christmas production @ Compassion Christian Church

Wednesday, December 6th, 2017

The East Campus of Christmas Compassion Christian Church is having a Christmas production called “Behold” that is kid friendly.

Full costumes with kids and a dessert reception following the program.

Tickets cost $5 and can be purchased online here or at the Resource Center at East Campus.

“Behold” showtimes
7-9PM Fri, Sat. & Sun Dec. 8-10
3-5PM Sun. Dec. 10

East Campus of Compassion Christian Church
9150 Old Montgomery Rd.
Savannah, GA 31406

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FIND MORE SAVANNAH HOLIDAY FUN IN OUR HOLIDAY EVENTS GUIDE 2017 HERE. 

Hilton Head/Bluffton Holidays 2017: Noon Year’s Kids’ Celebration @ The Sandbox

Wednesday, December 6th, 2017

Noon Year's Eve Sandbox Children's Museum Hilton Head Is.

The Holidays 2017 are a great time to take the kids to The Sandbox Children’s Museum  on Hilton Head Is.

Below are some upcoming special events. Or visit during regular museum hours.

December Hours:
Regular Hours: Dec 1-16, 18-23, 26-29
Tuesday- Sunday, 10AM-5PM
Special Hours
Dec 24 12-3PM Visit from Santa 1-2PM!
Dec 25 | CLOSED Merry Christmas!
Dec 30 10AM – 2PM | “NOON Year’s Eve EVE”
Dec 31 1-5PM | Special NYE Hours

Noon Year’s Eve @ The Sandbox

10AM-2PM Sat. Dec. 30| AT THE SANDBOX
The Sandbox is ringing in the new year a little early this year to accommodate church service on 12/31 at the adjacent church. So join The Sandbox prior to New Year’s Eve and celebrate with your little ones without staying up to midnight.

Festivities include special games and activities both indoors and outdoors. In addition to scavenger hunts, games, fun arts & crafts and a picnic lunch, attendees will ring in 2018 with party favors and a balloon drop at 12 noon.

COST: Special Event Admission: $5 for members, $10 for non-members.
Military and senior discounts are available.

First come, first serve. Space and activities limited in the event of rain
(Sorry, coupons not valid for special event)

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The Sandbox
18A Pope Avenue,
Hilton Head Island, SC 29928
843.842.7645

The Sandbox Children’s Museum is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser 

Savannah Holidays 2017: Free Christmas for Savannah

Wednesday, December 6th, 2017

Lifebridge free Christmas event Savannah 2017

You’re invited to bring your family to this free Christmas event:  LifeBridge Church is holding Christmas For Savannah on Sat. Dec. 23, 4:15-6:15PM at Lake Mayer Park (1850 E. Montgomery Crossroad) in Savannah.

There will live music from award-winning local band, Tell Scarlet, activities for kids of all ages, a live Nativity, Christmas “sleigh” rides, story time with Pete the Cat, and a special Christmas message.

Childcare is available for children ages 6 weeks – preK.

The evening is free & open to everyone!

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FIND MORE SAVANNAH HOLIDAY FUN IN OUR HOLIDAY EVENTS GUIDE 2017 HERE. 

Savannah schools: Veritas Academy presents ‘A Taste of the Classics’

Wednesday, December 6th, 2017

Veritas Academy Taste classics Savannah private schools

Veritas Academy in Savannah is hosting their 3rd annual fundraiser, A Taste of the Classics, on Feb. 16, 2018.

This year they’re excited to feature a concert from The Fabulous Equinox Orchestra!

Not only will this elegant evening include an eleven-piece band, there will be hors-d’oeuvres, games and a live auction, all at the beautiful Mansion Hotel Ballroom on Forsyth Park.

RSVP in the event page A Taste of the Classics 2018 to stay up to date on live auction items and raffles!

Order tickets online here. 

Veritas Academy , Pre-K through 12th grade,  25 W. Oglethorpe Lane., Savannah 31401, 912-238-1222,  email info@veritassavannah.org www.VeritasSavannah.org Veritas Academy is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Savannah schools: 2018 Open Houses @ Calvary Day School

Wednesday, December 6th, 2017

Savannah Schools Calvary Day School

You & your family are invited to get a first-hand glimpse of all the amazing opportunities available for students in Pre-K through 12th grade @ Calvary Day School in Savannah.

Calvary Day School open houses are the perfect chance to see what today’s learners are doing to become tomorrow’s leaders.

Learn more here

Open Houses @ Calvary Day School, 4625 Waters Ave, Savannah

Sun. Jan 21 2018, 2-4PM
Wilder Chapel

Sun. Feb 11 2018, 2-4PM
Wilder Chapel

Sun. Mar 25, 2-4PM
Wilder Chapel

Sun. April 8, 2-4PM
Wilder Chapel

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Private Tours

Private tours are also available throughout the school year from 9AM-2PM. To schedule your private tour, call Calvary admissions department at (912) 351-2299 or email admissions@calvarydayschool.com to schedule your tour.

To learn more about Calvary Day School, visit their website at www.calvarydayschool.com.

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Calvary Day School, 4625 Waters Ave., Savannah 31404, Lower School tel: 912-351-2299; Upper School tel: 912-644-5080 email admissions@calvarydayschool.com
www.calvarydayschool.com On Facebook here. On Twitter here.  Follow Calvary Day School on Instagram here.  Calvary Day School is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

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Adult crafting & open studio @ Henny Penny Art Space & Cafe, Savannah

Wednesday, December 6th, 2017

Henny Penny Savannah adult crafting Open Studio Henny Penny Cafe

Henny Penny Art Space & Cafe  offers so many different ways to get creative during December.

You can make this holiday garland Thursday Dec. 7 @ Adult Crafting. Cost: $10. For kids, this week’s open studio theme is making these adorable cardboard tree craft. One open studio ticket: $5

Henny Penny Art Space & Cafe also offers Pretend Play, special Saturday Workshops, Play-doh Playdates, Homeschool Meetups, Mommy & Me Crafting, Petite Picassos and storytimes.

See the Dec. 2017 Henny Penny options here. 

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About Henny Penny 

Henny Penny is located at 1514 Bull St. Savannah.

Nestled just blocks from Forsyth Park, Henny Penny Art Space and Cafe also provides custom-designed arts and crafts kits for all ages, workshops, classes, and is available for booking birthday parties.

Foxy Loxy Cafe & Scribble Art Studio opened Henny Penny earlier this year.

Scribble Art Studio is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser 

The Carolina’s premiere of Disney’s NEWSIES onstage Dec. 6-31 @ Arts Center, Hilton Head Is.

Tuesday, December 5th, 2017

Newsies Savannah Hilton Head Is. Arts Center Coastal Carolina
Here’s a spirited musical to take the kids to this holiday season: Disney’s Tony Award-winning Newsies @ Arts Center of Coastal Carolina on Hilton Head Is.

Newsies onstage Dec. 6-31 2017. Buy tickets at the Box Office 843-842-2787 or online here.

Tickets for preview performances Dec. 6-7, 2017 are $49 for adults and $36 for children 5-15; Full priced tickets Dec. 8-31, 2017 are $59 for adults and $46 for children.

Fresh off its First National Tour, the Arts Center is thrilled to produce the Carolinas’ premiere of Newsies, with jubilant music by Alan Menken and book by Harvey Fierstein, features high-flying dance with everything from tumbling to tap. Set in New York City at the turn of the century and inspired by the real-life Newsboys strike of 1899, Newsies is about a charismatic newsboy who dreams of a better life far from the streets.

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Arts Center of Coastal Carolina
14 Shelter Cove Lane (located mid-Island)
843-842-ARTS (2787)
www.artshhi.com