Celebrate Mardi Gras Tybee Island style with the Mardi Gras parade & other festivities on Sat. Feb. 9, 2013.

Schedule of events:

•12pm – 6pm
Mardi Gras Tybee Street Party: A new addition to the festivities this year, our Mardi Gras Street Party is full of exciting street entertainment. Stretched from Butler Avenue down Tybrisa Street to Strand Avenue, entertainers include musicians, puppeteers, stilt walkers, jugglers, hoopers, face painters, and more.
•12pm – 3pm The Fabulous Clams – Mainstage
•2pm – 3pm Mardi Gras Tybee Parade: The Mardi Gras Tybee Parade rolls down Butler Avenue from Memorial Park at 2pm.
Entries are still being accepted into this year’s parade. Applications are due no later than Feb 1. Click Here for Parade Application.
•3pm – 3:30pm Re-do I dos
•3pm – 6pm Dikki Du and the Zydeco Krewe
•4:15pm – 4:45pm Zydeco Dance Lessons: join our professional dancers in a quick lesson in Zydeco dance. These dancers will give you all the moves to dance the night away.

Parking and Road Closures:

Visitors are advised to be aware of road closures for Mardi Gras Tybee. There will be no through traffic or parking on Butler Avenue from 15th Street to Izlar Avenue from 6am-8pm on Saturday, February 9th. Visitors will be directed to both the 14th Street and 16th Street lots through 14th street and Butler Avenue with exits via 17th Street to Jones Avenue (there will be no traffic access to these lots during the parade 2pm-3pm).

Stroller Strides of Savannah wants to give you the opportunity to get healthy in 2013. On Monday, January 14, Stroller Strides of Savannah will begin a 12-week program that will equip you with the tools you need to make long lasting changes to your health and lifestyle.

Everyone at Stroller Strides of Savannah will hold each other accountable during the 12 weeks and will encourage each other to succeed.

Stroller Strides of Savannah will be making 12 sacrifices during the challenge, 1 sacrifice each week. These sacrifices will be designed to help us reach our health goals. Check out the Stroller Strides of Savannah Facebook page here to get a sneak peek at what some of these sacrifices will be!

Your first class is always FREE! Come join Stroller Strides of Savannah for this awesome opportunity to get fit, workout with your baby and make great friends.

Classes are held at 9:30 am on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays at JF Gregory Park in Richmond Hill. For price points, check out the following link: http://tinyurl.com/be85zl6 .

For more information contact: Natalia Lucero at natalialucero@strollerstrides.net , visit www.strollerstrides.com or facebook Stroller Strides of Savannah at https://www.facebook.com/StrollerStridesOfSavannah. Stroller Strides of Savannah is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

If you are new to the Savannah area or are a new parent, then you need to check out Toddler Tuesdays, a fun weekly program that celebrates nature @  Oatland Island Wildlife Center, 711 Sandtown Rd. Savannah, GA, 31410.

At Toddler Tuesday, children & their parents/caretakers experience nature through themed activities including live animal encounters, wildlife nature walks, storytelling, songs, interactive finger-play & crafts.

Oatland’s naturalist Michelle Kelly leads these exciting & educational sessions.

NEW TIME: One session 10:30-11:15 am.

Admission rates & driving directions here.

Toddler Tuesdays Program is at 10:30 AM on Tuesdays each week . Pre-registration required. Call 395-1500

Toddler Tuesday Program Fees: General: $5 per child $5 per adult Friends of Oatland Members: $5 per child, up to 2 adults FREE!

Program fee includes program and entrance to Oatland Island Wildlife Center and trails.

TODDLER TUESDAY THEMES
January to March 2013

January 8th, 2013: Armadillo, The Dirt Digging Dynamo
Has anyone seen a turtle- rabbit before? Well, this is as close as you will get to seeing one. We’ll investigate these little armored ones and find out why we dig them so much.

January 15th, 2013: Toddler Tuesday’s Turtle Time
We’ll discover these prehistoric shelled creatures of water and land; so get out of your shell and head on over to Oatland’s Toddler Tuesday for this day.

January 22nd, 2013: Let’s Get it Right! Georgia’s Right Whales
It is no fluke that we are studying whales this time of year! They are living off the Georgia coast right now! These beautiful beasts give birth and raise their calves just off of Georgia, South Carolina and northern Florida’s coast each winter. We’ll celebrate their life cycle TT style.

January 29th, 2013: Alligator
It’s an all-included Alligator gathering! The alligator is my friend. He can be yours too…if you join me for Toddler Tuesday on this day.

February 5th, 2013: Indigo Snake
It is the year of the Snake in Chinese Culture. Come to Toddler Tuesday and celebrate the New Year with our honorary serpentine friend Bella.

February 12th, 2013: Honey Bees
We are sure to have a sweet time learning about these magnificent pollinators. We’ll make a craft and then make a bee line straight to the hives to see the bee dance in action. Warning, you may have to bee-have!

February 19th, 2013: Bovine Birthday Bash
Mooo- ve on over to Oatland for this Toddler Tuesday– It’s Sapphire the cow’s birthday! We’ll sing songs, roll play and stroll over to shower Sapphire with birthday love.

February 26th, 2013: Dolphin Discovery
Did you know that dolphin call each other by name? Come to this program and we’ll make a splash learning amazing facts about these highly intelligent creatures that are so common along the GA coast.

March 5th, 2013: Sing, Sing a Songbird
You don’t want to miss this Toddler Tuesday. We are learning all about nature’s best singers, the songbirds. We’ll sing a few songs ourselves then take the class outside and hear these spring time serenades first hand!

March 12th, 2013: ‘Possum Party!
You are cordially invited to Petunia the ‘Possum’s 2nd birthday party. We’ll lean about Possums and celebrate her birthday Toddler Tuesday style. It’s a birthday bash you won’t want to miss.

March 19th 2013: Sheep to Shawl
Baa baa black sheep gonna’ sheer your wool…for the sheep to shawl festival coming up the weekend after this TT. We’ll get an early start studying these wooly creatures. Bring your strollers because we are heading over to the barn to give our very own Dottie a sheep treat.

March 26th, 2013: Rabbit Rendez-vous
What Oatland animal loves the springtime? You’ll have rabbits on your mind during this holiday time; so why not have one in the classroom? We have a warm and fuzzy time learning about these lovely little lagomorphs, so hop on over to Oatland for this TT event.

More to come in Spring 2013. Stay tuned.

Winnie the Pooh and Balloons Too!

Come celebrate the birthday of A. A. Milne, author of the “Winnie the Pooh” book series with balloon artist Lynnae Weller. She will take children on a balloon art adventure with music, audience participation, and most of all, Winnie the Pooh!

Tybee Library, Tuesday, Jan. 8, 11 a.m.
Hinesville Library, Monday, Jan. 14, 10:30 a.m
Midway Library, Monday, Jan. 14, 4 p.m.
Oglethorpe Mall Library, Tuesday, Jan. 15, 10:30 a.m.
Southwest Chatham Library, Tuesday, Jan. 15, 4:30 p.m.
Bull Street Library, Wednesday, Jan. 16, 10:30 a.m.
Rincon Library, Wednesday, Jan. 16, 4:30 p.m.
Islands Library, Thursday, Jan. 17, 10:30 a.m.
Thunderbolt Library, Tuesday, Jan. 22, 11 a.m.
W. W. Law Library, Tuesday, Jan. 22, 4 p.m.
West Broad Library, Wednesday, Jan. 23, 11 a.m.
Pooler Library, Wednesday, Jan. 23, 4:30 p.m.

If you want to have crazy amounts of fun at your next birthday party, please contact Lynnae with Bend Out A Shape Balloons at 912-228-3024 or e-mail bendoutashape@gmail.com, www.bendoutashape.com/

Like Bend Out A Shape Balloons on Facebook here.

Bend Out A Shape Balloons at 912-228-3024 or e-mail bendoutashape@gmail.com, www.bendoutashape.com/ Bend Out A Shape Balloons is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Kindermusik by “88 KEYS PIANO” announces the opening of a NEW location in Bluffton SC!

Beginning in January, Kindermusik will be holding classes on Monday mornings in Bluffton at Play!, located at 53 Persimmons St. FREE DEMO DAYS will be held on Mon. Jan. 7 & Mon. Jan. 14 to introduce everyone to Kindermusik’s newest location. You can enjoy a free Kindermusik class with their child.

Classes will be available for babies (0-20 months) and for toddlers (18 months – 4 years old). Even though the DEMO classes are free, families need to enroll online at the Kindermusik website (www.88keysga.com ) because enrollment is limited.

Also, classes in Savannah will be held on Wednesday and Thursday mornings, and online ongoing enrollment is available NOW. Classes in Richmond Hill begin in January on Monday mornings.

For more info, call 912.988.KEYS (5397), email music@88keysga.com , or visit www.88keysga.com  today!

Kindermusik…Offering Music & Motion Classes for ages newborn to 7….where A Good Beginning Never Ends

More info on all of the above by clicking here.

Marina Lindblom, 88 KEYS PIANO/Kindermusik, 912.988.KEYS (5397), email music@88keysga.com, www.88keysga.com . Kindermusik is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

The New River Auto Mall Hilton Head Snow Day is on Sat. Jan. 26 from 11 am – 4 pm at Shelter Cove Community Park. Come frolic in the snow that day when the park will be converted into a winter wonderland. Plus check out all the inflatable rides which will truly make this annual event a winter carnival.

There will be a fire pit for roasting marshmallows and concessions that will include hot dogs and pizza from Giuseppi’s. Coca-Cola and Budweiser can also be purchased.

Admission is $10 for children 2 to 17 and will once again include the snow field and all the rides you can ride. Adults and children 2 and under get in free.

When was the last time you threw a snowball or built a snowman? Or have you never had that opportunity? Then Snow Day with its’ huge snow field is where you want to be! There is an area in the snow field just for the little ones and with inflatable rides like a 35 ft. high inflatable slide on hand so what better way to entertain your family and friends then at Snow Day? So don’t miss the chance to be part of “When Snow Found Hilton Head.”

Proceeds benefit the Island Recreation Association’s scholarship fund. For more information and sponsorship opportunities visit www.islandreccenter.org, email info@islandreccenter.org or call 681-7273.

We’re thrilled to share with that the popular Music with Mar classes will start in January 2013 in Pooler, Rincon & on Skidaway Island, in addition the Savannah class.

Music with Mar is a fun & smart music & movement parent-and-me class.

Classes in Savannah:
11 AM Tuesdays in the music room of St James Catholic Church (8412 Whitfield Ave. Fronts on Montgomery Cross Road), Savannah;

Classes in Pooler

9:30 AM Mondays @ St. Patrick’s Episcopal Church, Pooler

Classes on Skidaway Island, Savannah

1 PM Tuesdays, Skidaway Island Presbyterian Preschool

Classes in Rincon

10 AM Wednesdays  in the Ashley Education Building at St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, Rincon

Classes start in January 2013

For children ages 6 months-6 years old and a parent/caregiver. Cost is $7/class per family (up to 4 children) or a block of 5 classes (to be used any time during a 2 month period) is $30. For more information, email megank@musicwithmar.com . “Like” Music with Mar on Facebook by clicking here to stay updated on classes.

Music with Mar is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser, On Facebook here.  Email megank@musicwithmar.com .

Come out to see “Friends” at The Puppet People this December.

“Friends” is a shadow puppet show based on an African Folk Tale. Featuring the unlikely friendship that forms between Frog Child and Snake Child, as they get to know each other and celebrate the things that make them different from one another.

Angela Beasley’s Puppet People has a Living Social half price special for December 15, 22, 27, 28, 29 on the shadow show and shadow puppet Mom & Me puppet making session: “Friends:” “Why Frog Child & Snake Child Can’t Play Together”
Cost : $15.00 per ticket
With Living Social: $7.00 per ticket

Show details here.

Angela Beasley’s Puppet People “The Puppet Place” in Thunderbolt, 3119 Furber Avenue, Savannah, GA 31405, 912-355-3366, http://puppetpeople.com. The Puppet Place is also an ideal spot to host children’s birthday parties! Puppet People is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

Studio 2424 offers various MusikGarten family music sessions for toddlers and babies in Savannah, Pooler, Statesboro & Hilton Head Is.

Among them are classes for ages 0-5 at 10 AM & 4:30 PM every Wednesday at Monkey Joe’s, 311 Eisenhower Drive, Savannah. Pre-register at www.gmwmg.com

The class sessions are designed to nurture children’s music aptitude by engaging them with their families in singing and movement activities which help attune the ear, refine the voice, and develop an ease with rhythmical movement and expression. Instrumental activities range from marking simple rhythms with sticks, chimes and drums, to singing and playing strings and keyboards from notation. Details about classes here.

FREE preview classes! The class schedule includes morning and evening classes at Monkey Joe’s in Savannah. Curriculum for homeschoolers and nursery schools also available. Register for classes here.

Class Schedule for 2012

Ages of Children Class Name/Days & Times 1- 5 yrs Curriculum for Homeschoolers, Nursery Schools, and Day Care Centers By Appointment 0- 5 yrs Monkey Joe’s, 311 Eisenhower Dr, Savannah, Wed 10am Wednesdays, 10 AM 0- 5 yrs Monkey Joe’s, 311 Eisenhower Dr, Savannah, Wed 4:30pm Wednesdays, 4:30 PM Newborn through age 5 Averitt Center Thurs 10:15am Thursdays 10:15 AM Newborn through age 5 Averitt Center Thurs 11am Thursdays 11 AM Newborn through age 5 Averitt Center Thurs 11:45am Thursdays 11:45 AM Newborn through age 5 Averitt Center Thurs 12:30 Thursdays 12:30 am Newborn – 3yrs, 4-7yrs, 8- 10yrs Private Party: Pick Your Theme Two hours of enriching fun and frolic with themed music and activities.

To sign up for a free preview class, click here.

Studio 2424 – Music is FUNdamental: Come over and PLAY! Savannah, Pooler, Hilton Head, Statesboro tel: 912-434-1604 or 866-645-7501, http://www.gmwmg.com Studio 2424 is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

Finishing a marathon is child’s play with KiDS ROCK Savannah – a one-mile fun run for children in grades K – 7. This non-competitive, non-timed event is all about having fun and making it to the finish line. Kindergarten distance is a half mile run.

The run will be 2 PM Sun. Nov. 4. Register here

Participants can become full marathon finishers by completing a 25.2-mile training program prior to November 4th or they can just run, walk or jog the one-mile course on race day. Every child is a winner and will be rewarded with an official race number, T-shirt, goodie bag, and colorful medal – just for finishing!

Run with your Friends

School/Team registration is now open. There is no fee to be a team, however you need a minimum of 10 registered participants. Being an official KiDS ROCK Team allows your team name to be listed in our registration system and allows you to pick-up your student’s race numbers and t-shirts. For questions regarding team registration, please contact Pam at kidsrock@competitorgroup.com .
Registration Information
$20 Individual – grades K-7
*Race day registration is not available.
*Parents and/or Chaperones may choose to run with their kids, but do NOT need to register.

Entry includes:
Official Race Number
T-shirt
Finisher’s Medal
Goodie Bag

Kids will enjoy the final mile of their marathon on an energetic, fun filled course! Participants can rock out with live entertainment and relish in the glory as they cross the finish line. There, kids will receive a hard-earned finisher’s medal and be able to feast on healthy post-race refreshments.
The start and finish line are in Daffin Park.
As participants in KiDS ROCK Savannah, you can become a marathon finisher by accumulating 25.2 miles of a marathon at your own pace over a span of 4,6 or 8 weeks with guidance from your parents or teachers. To get you groovin’ – check out the KiDS ROCK Training Guide where you will learn to set goals and discover that running is fun!

Race packet pick-up info here.

For More Information. E-mail: rnrsavannah@competitorgroup.com . Tel: 1-800-311-1255

We love this creative idea for a children’s birthday, party or fall festival: a photo booth.

Dream Weaver Photos & Dream Weaver Photo booth is perfect for any party, event, birthday or get together!

Price includes: Personalized photo strips, double prints, attendant, props, disk of images, set up/delivery and all taxes and travel in Savannah!

Dream Weaver special for SouthernMamas.com readers: mention you read about the photo booth on SouthernMamas.com & receive a Free scrapbook with any purchase (this is a $100 value which usually has to be a 4-hour rental).

Call or visit Dream Weaver Photos website for details! www.DreamWeaverPhotobooth.com , www.DreamWeaverPhotos.com  912-443-9097 or 912-484-7990, email Jamie@dreamweaverphotos.com

Dream Weaver Photos & Dream Weaver Photo Booth, www.DreamWeaverPhotobooth.com , www.DreamWeaverPhotos.com  912-443-9097 or 912-484-7990, email, Jamie@dreamweaverphotos.com Dream Weaver Photo & Photo Booth are SouthernMamas.com advertisers.

Coach Val’s Tumblegym on Wilmington Is. is now registering for fall classes.

Classes available:

Wiggle Worms: 30min classes ages walking – 2yrs This “Parent and Me class” is designed to incorporate the earliest aspects of physical fitness, enhance fine and gross motor skills, body awareness, and muscle coordination while promoting physical, mental and social development. Music, basic gymnastics movements, and games create a fun and healthy atmosphere for you and your child.

Grasshoppers: 45 min classes ages 2-3yrs This toddler class is open to children who enjoy having parents close by and are ready to learn to follow instructions from another adult. We ask parent/guardian to assist until their child is ready to participate on their own. This class continues to enhance your child’s fine and gross motor skills, social skills, strength and coordination through the activities and obstacle courses that emphasize eye-hand coordination, climbing, hanging, jumping, running, and rolling in a fun and safe environment.

Bumble Bees : 60 min classes ages 3-4yrs This class continues to enhance and challenge your child’s physical, social and cognitive development. Basic tumbling and gymnastics skills, ball handling skills and preschool concepts are taught. Group activities, teamwork, and fun theme-based curriculum keep your child engaged and excited to participate.

Fire flies: 60 min/week ages 4-6yrs This class is designed for children in Pre-K through Kindergarten. Concepts and themes are designed to introduce and reinforce age-appropriate physical, social and cognitive skills. Basic tumbling, gymnastics, and ball handling are worked through obstacle courses, group games, and teamwork.

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Dragon Flies: 60 min/week ages 6-8yrs This class is designed for children in First and Second grade. Concepts and themes are designed to challenge children using age-appropriate physical, social and cognitive skills. Basic tumbling, gymnastics, ball handling, and physical fitness skills are worked through obstacle courses, group games, and teamwork. .

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

Inclusion class: Adult, child with special needs (ages 5 – 10), and siblings – Contact for more information.

FREE TRIAL CLASSES available. Unsure your child will participate? Want to see Coach Val in action before you commit to class time? Fill out our free trial form here and try out a class at no cost.

Mention you saw on SouthernMamas.com site, and annual registration fee of $25 will be waived.

Coach Val’s Tumblegym, 310 Johnny Mercer Blvd in the Wilmington Island Shopping Center, 912-268-6003, www.coachvals.com; On Facebook here. Coach Val’s Tumblegym is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

August is the Last Month of Puppet People Friday Summer Shows!
This is the last month to come out to the puppet studio with the family and see Puppet People’s “Friday Summer Shows” every Friday at 11:00 AM.

Two Special Puppet Shows Added to Summer Line-up!

DISCOUNTS:
*** Mention this code: “SM006″ and get $1.00 OFF each ticket for the “Summer Friday Shows”***
*** Mention this code: “SM006″ and get 10% OFF tickets for “J-Low & Friends”***

“Friends” August 10th

“Friends” is  a shadow puppet show based on an African Folk Tale, featuring the unlikely friendship that forms between Frog Child and Snake Child as they get to know each other and celebrate the things that make them different from one another. With all original music and voices by local talent.

The showings of “Friends” will be on the 10th of August at 11:00 AM and will include show and shadow puppet making demo on an actual light stage!

“Little Red Riding Hood” August 31st

Puppet People will be premiering their newest puppet show “Little Red Riding Hood” on August 31 at 11:00 AM. Be one of the first to see and be apart of Puppet People’s retelling of the classic story!

Friday, August 31st

11:00 AM

The Puppet Place

3119 Furber Ave.

Savannah, GA 31404

“J-Low & Friends”August 18th Public Show Come out to the Puppet People Studio on August 18 at 11:00 AM to see this month’s showing of “J-Low & Friends!” The worlds only puppet show portraying the life and times of Girl Scout Founder – Juliette Gordon Low!Price of admission includes the 50 min multi-media puppet show, as well as an interactive studio tour of our puppet building workshop and a FREE “J-Low & Friends” Badge!

Angela Beasley’s Puppet People “The Puppet Place” in Thunderbolt, 3119 Furber Avenue, Savannah, GA 31405, 912-355-3366, http://puppetpeople.com. The Puppet Place is also an ideal spot to host children’s birthday parties! Puppet People is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

Take the kids for a ride on the dot, Savannah’s fare-free Downtown Transportation system.

The dot Express Shuttle travels in and around Savannah’s Historic District, running every day except Thanksgiving, Christmas & New Year’s Day. Click here for a map of the shuttle route through downtown Savannah & a list of the stops where you can catch the shuttle.
Other FREE city modes of transporation include
• Ride the free historic River Street Streetcar.
• Hop on the free Ferry to Hutchinson Island and the Savannah International Trade & Convention Center.

FREE Express Shuttle
• Every 20 minutes or less • Serving 11 stops around the Historic District
• Connecting to municipal parking facilities, Visitor Centers, Streetcar and Ferry
• Operating 7 days a week, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.
• ADA-Accessible

FREE River Street Streetcar (Streetcar Out of Service until Aug. 30, 2012 for maintenance)
• Thursday-Sunday – 12noon – 9pm
• Authentic 1930s Melbourne
• 54-passenger streetcar updated with environmentally-friendly green technology
• Six stops along Historic River Street between Montgomery St. & the Waving Girl Landing
• ADA-Accessible

FREE Savannah Belles Ferry
• Modern passenger-only ferries, reminiscent of vessels seen in the harbor a century ago
• Named for Savannah’s “Belles”— strong women who shaped the city’s history
• Connecting downtown with Hutchinson Island and the Savannah International Trade & Convention Center
• Operating 7 days a week, from 7 a.m. to midnight, Daily
• From Trade Center Landing (on Hutchinson Island adjacent to the Westin Savannah Harbor Resort) • City Hall Landing below City Hall adjacent to Hyatt Regency Hotel
• Waving Girl Landing in Morrell Park adjacent to the Marriott Riverfront Hotel

ParkSmart Downtown • Your “BEST BET” to find a parking space downtown is in one of these three parking facilities:
Liberty Street Parking Garage Whitaker Street Parking Garage Visitor Center Parking Lot
912.644.5934 912.525.2820 912.651. 6896
301 W. Liberty Street 7 Whitaker Street 301 MLK Blvd
Liberty St. at Montgomery St. Whitaker St. at Bay Lane Fahm St. at MLK Blvd
Closed Sat, Sun & 1am-5am nightly 24 hours a day 8am to 6:30pm, Daily

VISITOR PARKING PASSES: 1 Day $7 and 2 Days $12
Purchase at the the Mobility and Parking Services office (100 E. Bryan St. 912-651-6470, 8am – 5pm) and the Visitor Center (301 MLK Blvd.), and many downtown hotels.

Lovin’ Spoons self-serve froyo now has shakes! You Make ’em, We Shake ’em, sold by weight just like the cups.
Great “to go” – especially during this hot weather.

Lovin’ Spoons FroYo offers 12 ever changing flavors, over 40 fresh toppings, hot syrups served up with a groovy 70s vibe. Local store locations include:

Savannah Savannah Centre by Toys R Us on Eisenhower Drive 912-355-2723

Pooler Pooler Marketplace by Publix 912-748-1444

Richmond Hill 60 Exchange St. 912-459-1490

Hours: Mon-Thurs 11am-10pm, Fri-Sat 11am-11pm, Sun 12pm-10pm

Lovin Spoons, 912.355.2723, email info@lovinspoons.com , www.lovinspoons.com, Lovin’ Spoons is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

For more information, contact artist Carrie Christian at 912-323-0123 or email ScribbleArtStudio@hotmail.com . Click here for more info. Scribble Art Studio is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

We’re all about local free kids entertainment this summer. And playgrounds definitely qualify as free kid-friendly entertainment! Here are a few of our favorite Greater Savannah area playgrounds. Feel free to share yours by emailing us at anne@southernmamas.com

Daffin Park @ 1500 E Victory Dr, Savanah 31404 includes walking trail, picnic area, lake, somewhat shaded playgrounds, tennis courts

Toddler playground at Forsyth Park (next to the Visitors' Center cafe) includes a rocking toucan

Forsyth Park @ 700 Drayton Street, Savannah 31401, includes two playgrounds with bathrooms, 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 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.

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Hull Park Spray Pool, Ardsley Park, Savannah

Hull Park, @ 55th St./Atlantic Avenue, Savannh 31405 includes playground, sheltered picnic area, spray pool, baseball field. A great, popular playground with a merry-go-round perfect for playdates.

Jaycee Park Playground, 27 Van Home Ave., Tybee Island, 31328. Fenced playground, within walking distance to the beach

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Newly renovated Lake Mayer playground three new climbing structures complete with climbing walls, tunnels; plus new swing sets, new baby swing sets, new mulch, new swivel seat, new twirling toy & oh-so-modern sleek see-saw!

Lake Mayer @ 1850 E. Montgomery Crossroads Savannah, 31406 includes a completely redone playground with new equipment, mulch; also 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. Details here.

Memorial Park Playground, behind Tybee Is. Library, Tybee Is. @ 405 Butler Ave. , Tybee Is. 31328 Features include fenced play area, bath rooms, covered picnic area, faux pirate ship, see-saw whale rocker and more.

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Mother Mathilda Beasley playground.

Mother Mathilda Beasley @ 500 E. Broad Street Savannah, 31401 includes two playgrounds, picnic tables, field, paved trail, dog Exercise Area & Dog Station & coming soon, park pavilion with bathrooms, sheltered picnic tables (We can’t wait for the posh pavilion to open with bathrooms. Our only complaint about the pack is lack of shade on the playground. Great playgrounds that are never crowded. An overlooked gem in downtown Savannah. Details here)

Scott Stell Park, 195 Scott Stell Community Park Savannah, 31419 includes 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

Tom Triplett Community Park @ 100 Tom Triplett Rd Pooler, 31322
Two Pavilions available for rent, conference rm available for rent, tennis courts, lake, 1.5 jogging/bike paved track with fitness course, restrooms, dog exercise, playground, disc golf course

West Chatham YMCA playground, off Pooler Parkway between the YMCA and Pooler’s new municipal recreation complex. It’s 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.

FOR MORE LOCAL SUMMER FREE (OR ALMOST FREE) KIDS EVENTS, CLICK HERE.

FOR LOCAL EATERIES WHERE KIDS EAT FREE ON CERTAIN DAYS, CLICK HERE.

The Art Bash Studio in Savannah is where busy moms go for a relaxing, unforgettable evening of fun, friends, music and art! It is not an art class…it is a painting pARTy!

Join us for an art bash where one of our local artists will guide you from start to finish in creating a featured painting. We provide everything you need, including a little “liquid encouragement”.

A few sips of sangria, a few strokes of paint and in about 2 hours you will leave with you own “masterpiece”! Come alone, bring friends or arrange a private party.

The Art Bash Studio is a unique MOMS NIGHT OUT! Go to ARTBASHSTUDIO.COM for details and please visit our FACEBOOK page here.  Unserious art, serious fun!

The Art Bash Studio, 1526 Bull and 32nd streets, Savannah, 31401, (912) 484-3438 Email
fun@artbashstudio.com , www.artbashstudio.com The Art Bash Studio is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

Join the amazing Scribble Art Studio at La’ Berry for Broughton Street’s First Friday celebration on June 1 2012 in downtown Savannah!

Student work will be on display for viewing while you enjoy your frozen treat and take part in a fun kids’ craft!

Scribble Art Studio artists can’t wait to see you there!

What is First Friday on Broughton? With more vendors participating and many musical acts performing, this event is sure to fill the air with festive spirits. Broughton Street vendors will remain open after hours, from 6–9 p.m., and many will have live music by local musicians. In addition to entertainment, shoppers will enjoy great deals, discounts, specials, and raffles on everything Broughton Street has to offer.

La’ Berry Frozen Yogurt Cafe, 225 W. Broughton St., Savannah 31401, laberryfrozenyogurt.com For more information, contact artist Carrie Christian at 912-323-0123 or email ScribbleArtStudio@hotmail.com . Click here for more info. Scribble Art Studio 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. This Saturday May 19 2012 there will be a Puppet People Workshop & Puppet Show at The Puppet Place in Thunderbolt .Make a Puppet – Be a Puppeteer!
Create your own puppet and let us help you learn how to work it and give it a “voice”.

Date: Saturday, May 19th
Time: 9:00 AM to 10:00 AM make a Rod Puppet
10:00 AM see a puppet show!
Where: Puppet People Party Place, 3119 Furber Ave. Savannah, GA 31404
Cost: $15 per person (Parents half price)

More info here.

Looking for active summer classes for your little one?

Coach Val’s Tumblegym has just the thing in a safe, air conditioned, bug-free environment! Their 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.

Children “Build More Than Muscles” through group games, obstacle courses, music activities and more.

Testimonial:
“Coach Val,
You’re doing a WONDERFUL job with the kids! I did a lot of gymnastics and music classes with my boys when they were little, and your class is by far the best one I’ve seen. You do a great job of engaging the little ones while throwing in plenty of creative learning exercises. Ella absolutely loves the class, and I agree, she’s gained lots of skills in a short time!”
– Misty H. from Savannah

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.

Classes available this summer:
Wiggle Worms: 30min classes ages walking – 2yrs
This “Parent and Me class” is designed to incorporate the earliest aspects of physical fitness, enhance fine and gross motor skills, body awareness, and muscle coordination while promoting physical, mental and social development. Music, basic gymnastics movements, and games create a fun and healthy atmosphere for you and your child.

Grasshoppers: 45 min classes ages 2-3yrs
This toddler class is open to children who enjoy having parents close by and are ready to learn to follow instructions from another adult. We ask parent/guardian to assist until their child is ready to participate on their own. This class continues to enhance your child’s fine and gross motor skills, social skills, strength and coordination through the activities and obstacle courses that emphasize eye-hand coordination, climbing, hanging, jumping, running, and rolling in a fun and safe environment.

Bumble Bees : 60 min classes ages 3-4yrs
This class continues to enhance and challenge your child’s physical, social and cognitive development. Basic tumbling and gymnastics skills, ball handling skills and preschool concepts are taught. Group activities, teamwork, and fun theme-based curriculum keep your child engaged and excited to participate.

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

Additional Programs Available for Summer (see website here for details)
Cartwheel basics: ages 5-8yr olds. Skills, drills, and strengthening to learn how to do a cartwheel! (Several other basic tumbling skills will also be practiced)
Sport Readiness Training: ages 6-10yr olds. This class is a perfect opportunity for your child to increase strength, speed and agility with this age-appropriate circuit training course. Ideal for kids who play (or want to join) football, soccer, tennis, gymnastics, swimming, and baseball.
Inclusion class: Adult, child with special needs (ages 5 – 10), and siblings – Contact for more information.

FREE TRIAL CLASSES available. Unsure your child will participate? Want to see Coach Val in action before you commit to class time? Fill out our free trial form here and try out a class at no cost.

Mention you saw on SouthernMamas.com site, and annual registration fee of $25 will be waived. New customers – register with a friend and both receive additional $10 off class or camp.

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.

Bring the family to Lovin’ Spoons for a groovy Cosmic Night in Richmond Hill on Friday, May 11th from 7-11PM.

Lovin’ Spoons will be turning the lights down and cranking the music up with a fun party atmosphere that will be out of this world!

In addition to a cool cosmic vibe and party favors, you’ll get 20% off your yogurt all night! (may not be combined with other offers)

Lovin Spoons Richmond Hill frozen yogurt store is at 60 Exchange Street in the Kroger Shopping Center on Highway 144, next to Jalapenos, Richmond Hill, 31324 tel: 912.459.1490.  Lovin Spoons 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 are two upcoming Puppet People shows at  The Puppet Place in Thunderbolt .

“Beyond the Moss Curtain”
OPEN SHOW TO THE PUBLIC –
Come see what the tourists are raving about!
This show takes you on a journey “BEYOND THE MOSS CURTAIN” straight to your heart! Comedic host, Miss Moscelyne, the “moss fairy” dishes out good gossip from way back when to the present day. This musical variety show, featuring people-size puppets, highlights some of Savannah’s most colorful characters. You’ll meet founder General Oglethorpe, pirate Captain Flint, Girl Scout founder, Juliette Low, songwriter Johnny Mercer, witchy Meter Maids, Palmetto Bugs and even Paula Queen! Ya’ll come to Thunderbolt and see the refreshing creativity of our local artists and performers for a truly unique entertainment experience.
Sneak Peek for Locals with a special price $15.00
Please call for Reservations-
912.355.3366
7 PM Saturday, April 21st
The Puppet People Party Place
3119 Furber Avenue
Savannah, GA 31405

MONTHLY PUBLIC SHOW on the National Day of Puppetry
Angela Beasley’s Puppet People Presents “3 Pigs of Huge Proportions & the Teeny Tiny Wolf!”
Bring the family and follow along as Puppet People tells the classic story of the 3 Pigs!
**Includes Studio Tour and Mom and Me Puppet Making**
Saturday, April 28th
11:00 AM-12:00 PM
The Puppet People Party Place
3119 Furber Avenue
Savannah, GA 31404
$10 per person

Angela Beasley’s Puppet People “The Puppet Place” in Thunderbolt, 3119 Furber Avenue, Savannah, GA 31405, 912-355-3366, http://puppetpeople.com. The Puppet Place is also an ideal spot to host children’s birthday parties! Puppet People is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.