Matilda Jane Clothing has recognized its Savannah area independent Trunk Keepers as the top sales team in the nation.

At the clothing company’s national sales meeting, held recently at its Ft. Wayne, Ind. headquarters, the 20-member team and Leader, Robyn Shirley took top honors for highest sales for the spring 2015 “Hello Lovely” campaign.

The six-month campaign, featuring clothing for little girls and mothers, was launched in Savannah this past February. The city was also featured as the backdrop for the spring line in a national photo shoot that took place last fall.

Shirley is now looking to expand her Savannah area team of Trunk Keepers and is seeking candidates. For more information here.

BOOK A MATILDA JANE TRUNK SHOW

Robyn is now booking trunk shows for Fall 2015. TO BOOK or attend a Matilda Jane show near you, email RobynS@matildajaneclothing.com. Tell her SouthernMamas.com sent you! Stay connected by liking her page on Facebookhere. 

Robyn Shirley, Team Leader and Trunk Keeper #124, Bluffton, SC, RobynS@matildajaneclothing.com Robyn Shirley is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

As Independent Trunk Keeper & Team Leader with Matilda Jane Clothing in Savannah & South Carolina, Robyn Shirley has some fun news:

HAPPILY EVER AFTER BALL AUG 30

Shirley will serve as the Royal Title Sponsor for The Next Generation’s annual The Happily Ever After Ball this Sun. Aug. 30 in Savannah.

The Next Generation, a volunteer organization founded to benefit The Children’s Hospital at Memorial University Medical Center, hosts the Happily Ever After Ball every year. Children can meet 30 of their favorite princesses, princes, pirates, and heroes.

Two sessions: 1-3PM and 4-6PM
Brockington Hall, 213 East Hall St. near Forsyth Park

100% of Proceeds benefits The Children’s Hospital at Memorial University Medical Center
Tickets are $30 each, you can purchase tickets through The Next Generation by clicking here.

Children and their parents are invited to attend the Royal Celebration where they can waltz with Cinderella and Prince Charming, visit Rapunzel and Flynn’s Hair and Makeup Palace, and even have a sword fight with Peter Pan and Captain Hook! Of course Anna, Elsa, and Kristoff will be there joined by all of their royal friends. You can also take a break in Wonderland and join Alice and the Mad Hatter at his tea party featuring Byrd Cookie Company’s famous cookie bar.

The Royal Title sponsor for this year’s Ball is Matilda Jane Clothing Independent Trunk Keeper, Robyn Shirley. The Next Generation has also partnered with Savannah luxury wedding and event planners, Posh Petals and Pearls to create a fairytale experience that children will never forget. The non-profit group, Princesses with a Purpose, will bring over 30 fairytale characters to life for children.

HILTON HEAD PHOTOGRAPHER

Shirley also is pleased to share MJC’s Photo Love 2015 winner.  Matilda Jane selected twenty applications from talented photographers that made it to the second round.  The third round of the competition was left to public voters. Tara Wanner was announced the winner for her fun, colorful and playful photo.

A local Hilton Head photographer, Carrie Friesen was a runner up in the contest. Carrie can be found at carriefriesenphotography.com

For more information on the competition and to view the photo, visit matildajaneblog.com.

BOOK A MATILDA JANE TRUNK SHOW

Robyn is now booking trunk shows for Fall 2015. TO BOOK or attend a Matilda Jane show near you, email RobynS@matildajaneclothing.com. Tell her SouthernMamas.com sent you! Stay connected by liking her page on Facebook here. 

Robyn Shirley, Team Leader and Trunk Keeper #124, Bluffton, SC, RobynS@matildajaneclothing.com Robyn Shirley is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

You’re invited to the fourth annual Boiled Peanut Festival in Bluffton, Sept. 19 2015.

This fall festival includes a peanut eating contest & Ms Peanut & Little Goober competition. The Ms. Peanut & Little Goober event is for children under the age of three. There will be a boys and a girls winner. Judges are looking for the cutest little peanuts and goobers to enter. Entry cost: $25. Details here. 

Location:
Bluffton Village
(Between the Library and the Post Office off 46)
Bluffton, SC 29910

Date & time
September 19, 2015
12pm-5pm

Kids’ Zone
Includes zipline, euro jumper, rock wall, bungie jumper, dunk tank & more. 

Cost
No charge for admission. In the “Kid Zone”, several vendors who charge on their own. Prices for those activities range from free and up to around $10 for zip lining.

For more info, click here or email eblack@blufftonchamberofcommerce.org

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FOR MORE SAVANNAH-AREA FALL EVENTS, VISIT OUR SAVANNAH FALL FUN GUIDE 2015 HERE. 

Lowe’s Build and Grow Clinics are free to the public and occur select Saturdays at 10am. Below is the next upcoming clinic. Registration opens a few weeks before each clinic’s date.

Haunted Birdhouse kids’ workshop: 

Haunted Birdhouse workshop
10AM Oct. 10

Register for this project here. 

To register for a Build and Grow kids’ clinic, click here.

Don’t miss out on the FREE fun!

Details here.  
Clinics are available at Lowe’s stores in Savannah, Rincon, Pooler, Bluffton, Hinesville, Beaufort, Statesboro, Brunswick and more.

The free clinics are similar to The Home Depot Kids Workshop, which are free classes for kids held on the first Saturday of each month at Home Depot stores across the country. To learn more about the Home Depot free kids’ workshops & see the Home Depot schedule of upcoming kids’ workshops, click here.

FREE Hilton Head ~ Summer Jams
Tue. June 23-Aug. 11 2015 5-9PM
Summer Jams hosted by the Island Rec Center at Shelter Cove Community Park on Tuesday nights, June 16-August 11, 5-9 p.m. Family fun with The Surf’s Jeff Taylor, entertainer Rick Hubbard and fireworks after dusk.
Free admission; concessions and Kids Zone sold separately.
39 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Is., SC
More information: (843) 681-7273 or www.islandreccenter.org

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Hilton Head ~ Sunset Celebration
picnic in the park!
every friday night from june 19-august 14
6-9pm
live music • family fun • shopping • dining • on the lawn
Sunset Celebration in Shelter Cove Community Park hosted by the merchants of Shelter Cove Towne Centre
Bring a beach, blanket and picnic to enjoy live music from Tim Cadiere & The Washboard Road Band, face painting, a juggler, bounce house and more.
39 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Is., SC
More information: (843) 686-3090 or www.sheltercovetownecentre.com

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FREE HarbourFest at Shelter Cove Harbour on Hilton Head, SC
Monday-Friday, Memorial Day through Labor Day, 6-9 p.m.
Family entertainment with Shannon Tanner and Cappy the Clown, crafts, face painting, food and more. Tuesday night fireworks on August 11.
Parrot Palooza with Shannon Tanner and The Oyster Reefers on Thursday nights at 6:30 and 8 p.m., June 18-August 13.
Free admission.
1 Harbourside Lane, Hilton Head Is. SC
More information (843) 686-9098 or www.sheltercovehiltonhead.com

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Concerts that aren’t free but still fun:

Palmetto Bluff Summer Concert Series, Bluffton SC
Bring chairs and a picnic to enjoy an outdoor show.
August 11: Davis, Johnson and the Equinox Quintet
Gates open at 5PM. Concerts start at 6:30PM
Admission is $25 per car; proceeds benefit Family Promise of Beaufort.
19 Village Park Square, Palmetto Bluff SC 29910
More information here.  For updates on any cancellations due to weather, please check the Palmetto Bluff Facebook page.

During Summer 2015, both Tybee Island & Hilton Head Island offer summer outdoor family movies.

FREE Movies in the Park 2015, Tybee Island

At Memorial Park on Tybee Island, a family friendly movie will be projected on the side of the Tybee Gym compliments of the City of Tybee Island’s Development Authority / Main Street Program and Partners.

Please note that the movie start time is an estimate. The movie will begin when it is dark enough for it to be visible once projected on the gym. If it rains, the movie will be shown inside the gym.
AUGUST 15, 2015 – MOVIES IN THE PARK: EARTH TO ECHO
8:30 PM

Contact Chantel Morton, 912-472-5071, email cmorton@cityoftybee.org

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Cinema at the Stables 2015, Hilton Head Island
Lawton Stables, 190 Greenwood Dr ($6/per vehicle entrance fee to Sea Pines Resort). Cost: Suggested donation of $10 for adults, $5 for kids & younger.
July 8: Black Beauty
Aug. 5: The movie will either be Babe or Night at the Museum. Check their Facebook page here. 
Come and enjoy a movie outside while supporting Lawton Stables’ Wish Upon a Horse therapeutic riding center.
Concessions will be available. More information here or (843) 671-2586

Southland Therapy Services Inc. in Savannah broadens the lives of children through caring and therapeutic services.

Services offered for children include: Occupational Therapy (OT), Physical Therapy (PT) & Speech Therapy (ST).

Southland Therapy currently offers therapy services conducted in a natural environment setting throughout South Carolina and Southern Georgia. Currently, their clinic based therapy services are only offered in Savannah at this time.

Southland therapists are experienced in the treatment of expressive and receptive language disorders, articulation disorders, apraxia of speech, autism spectrum disorders, cognitive delays, sensory processing disorder, learning disabilities, ADD and ADHD, torticollis and traumatic brain injury just to name a few. Learn more about Southland’s team of therapists by clicking here.

Southland Therapy is a Babies Can’t Wait (BCW) provider in the state of Georgia and a BabyNet Provider in South Carolina.

New Tumble Tykes session starts on June 19 @ Southland Therapy Services. 

Call 912-335-2269 or email tumbletykes@southlandtherapy.com for more details.

Fun Frogs for ages 3-4 on Fridays at 10AM and Bouncing Bunnies ages 2-3 on Saturdays at 9AM.

Tumbling classes are open to all children.

Southland Therapy Services Inc, 1000 Eisenhower Dr Suite H, Savannah, 912-335-1650 | 843-501-1816 | 803-398-1881, www.southlandtherapy.com Southland Therapy is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser. 

WITH THE START OF SUMMER, WE THOUGHT SOUTHERNMAMAS.COM SHOULD REPOST THIS POPULAR & INFORMATIVE GUEST POST ABOUT OUR AREA’S JELLYFISH.

Below is a guest post published on SouthernMamas.com in 2011 by Tybee Island marine scientist/biologist Dr. Joe Richardson. Dr. Richardson leads Tybee Island Beach Ecology Trips . These beach walks are an excellent way to educate your kids and entertain your visitors. Read a list of activities and topics the beach ecology walk covers by clicking here. To book a family, scout, school and tour group beach walk call (912) 596-5362 or email joe@ceasurf.com. For updates regarding what Dr. Joe is finding and doing on his ecology beach walks, check out (and “like”) the “Tybee Beach Ecology Trips” FACEBOOK page by clicking here.

Cannonball Jelly – a non-stinger

Lion’s Mane Jelly – mild stinger

Jellyfish: Who’s Hot and Who’s Not

It’s not unusual to find jellyfish on our beaches, but most of the time the ones we see are harmless and will not sting you. In mid May, the most abundant jellyfish on the beach is the Cannonball Jelly. They are ball-shaped (as opposed to flat), relatively firm, and have a broad reddish-brown band wrapping around an otherwise cloudy white body. The thick structure extending out from under the bell is a system of multiple mouths. Cannonball Jellies do not have stinging tentacles hanging from the bell, so as long as you handle them on the outside of the bell or mouths, there is nothing to sting you. Only if you stick your fingers way up inside the bell could you contact any tiny tentacles, and even then they would give you only a slight tingle. So, don’t mind the Cannonball Jellies – they aren’t going to sting you.

Our common winter-time jellyfish, the Lion’s Mane Jelly, has pretty much finished its season for this year. I haven’t seen any Lion’s Mane Jellies in a few weeks now that the water has warmed up. They are round and fairly flat, and they often have some pink color. Their tentacles are fairly short and form a “hairy-looking” circle of tentacles hanging from the underside of the flat

Moon jellies – mild stingers

Sea Wasp jellies – active in late July & August. Intense burning sting.

jellyfish. This thick circle of short tentacles supposedly resembles the hairy mane around the neck of a male lion.Lion’s Mane Jellies produce a very mild sting; and I personally don’t consider it a “sting” but more of an irritation.

As the water warms into the summer, we will start seeing Moon Jellies. They are very flat, round and clear, and usually have 4 horseshoe shaped structures visible near the center. Moon Jellies have a fringe of short tentacles extending from the very outer edge of their flat body. I’ve seen Moon Jellies on Tybee Island as large as a dinner plate. Moon Jelly tentacles produce a mild sting. It is not really painful, but you know that you have been stung; but it’s not likely going to cause you much discomfort.

It’s during late July and the first couple of weeks of August, on average, that we reach the peak of the Sea Wasp season on Tybee. The Sea Wasp jellyfish are our “bad guys” around here. (We rarely have trouble from floating, blue Portugese Man of War on Tybee, especially compared to some beaches in Florida). But the Sea Wasp jellyfish in late summer do cause us problems. They are clear, and we can’t see them in the water. Although their body is fairly small (2-3 inches), they produce a number of long thin tentacles that extend from 4 hand-like structures that hang from the bottom of their box-shaped body. Even when they are dead and washed up on the beach, Sea Wasp tentacles can still sting. Their sting is an instant intense burning sting, and these stings will make you want to get out of the water and seek some relief. Although the intense pain subsides after a few minutes, the stung area will still hurt a while, and usually some red marks will appear where the tentacles contacted your skin. For me, the stung areas itch for a few days later also.

The above is a guest post by Tybee Island marine scientist/biologist Dr. Joe Richardson, who leads Tybee Island Beach Ecology Trips . These beach walks are an excellent way to educate your kids and entertain your visitors.

Sandbox Children’s Museum on Hilton Head Is. offers various summer kids events including: 

Summer Fun Series 2015

Mondays (June 22-Aug. 3)
10:30a: “Sizzlin’ Summer Science”
First come, first serve. Included in Admission. Space is limited
Call 843-842-7645 for any questions

Tuesdays (June 23-Aug. 4)
Crafty Kids (10:30am-11:30am)
First come, first serve. Included in Admission
June
23 Alligator
30 Patriotic Hat
July
7 Sea Turtle
14 Octopus
21 Rainstick
28 Shark
August
4 Starfish
Call 843-842-7645 for any questions

Wednesdays (June 24-August 5)
Arts & Crafts (10:30am-11:30am)
First come, first serve. Included in Admission
June
24 Jelly Fish
July
1 Patriotic Wreath
8 Sandcastle
15 Bird Mask
29 Tropical Fish
August
5 Horseshoe Crab
Call 843-842-7645 for any questions

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Imagination Hour
Special story followed by a special craft, first come first serve. Included in Admission
Every Thursday at 10:30am

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Parents Night Out
6p-9p. Details here. 
(Wednesdays and Thursdays, June 17-August 6)
Enjoy a parents night out while the kids let their imaginations run wild playing with the museum’s fun exhibits and activity areas. Plus staff supervised arts and crafts, dinner (pizza,drink & dessert) & a fun take home craft for each child.
Geared for children age 3-9 years.
Children must be potty-trained.
Reservations highly recommended 24 hours in advance; space available basis for walk-ins.
$30 per child
Siblings and Sandbox Members only $20 per child.
($1/minute per child late pick up fee.)
Call 843-842-7645 to sign up
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Summer Camps 2015 @ The Sandbox. For ages 3-10. Details here.

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The Sandbox Children’s Museum, 18-A Pope Avenue, next to St. Andrew’s by the Sea United Methodist Church, Hilton Head Is., 29928 www.thesandbox.org The Sandbox Children’s Museum is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

FOR MORE LOCAL PARENT & ME ACTIVITIES TO DO WITH YOUR PRESCHOOLER, CLICK HERE. 

SouthernMamas.com regularly spotlights our favorite nearby daytrip spots to visit with kids outside of Savannah.

One of our favorite family daytrips from Savannah is Charleston, SC. (about a 90 minute drive from Savannah).

For more favorite daytrips from Savannah, click here. 

Things to do with kids in Charleston, SC include:

1. South Carolina Aquarium, Charleston Harbor. Hours, daily events, admission rates & specials here.
Now open, Touch sharks & rays @ Shark Shallows. This new exhibit enables you to reach out & feel the skin of bonnethead sharks, cownose rays and southern stingrays. Details here.

2. Children’s Museum of the Lowcountry, Charleston. Hours, exhibits, admission rates & more details here.

3. Fort Sumter & Fort Moultrie national monuments, Charleston. Info on these forts Junior Ranger program here.

4. The Center for Birds of Prey Avian Conservation Center , Awendaw SC

5. Patriots Point Naval & Maritime Museum, Mount Pleasant

6. James Island County Park Climbling Wall, Charleston – South Carolina’s tallest, outdoor climbing wall.

7. Pineapple Fountain & Splash Fountain in Waterfront Park,Charleston. Wading in these downtown fountains is permitted & encouraged.

8. Awendaw Passage (7 miles) of Palmetto Trail (Hike or mountain bike)

9. Fresh farm stand/u-pick farm (depending on the season) including
* Ambrose Family Farm: Wadmalaw Island.www.stonofarmmarket.com/ambrosefamilyfarm.html
* Boone Hall Farms: Mount Pleasant. www.boonehallfarms.com
* Rosebank Farms: John’s Island. www.rosebankfarms.com

10. West Ashley Bikeway 2.5 mile biking & walking path, Charleston

11. Morris Island Lighthouse, Folly Beach

12. Waterparks
Splash Zone Waterpark in James Island County Park
Splash Island Waterpark, Mount Pleasant, SC

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Free trolley transportation

Free Public Transportation in Charleston via DASH Trolley

Charleston’s free public transportation – DASH Trolley – is operated by the city’s CARTA bus system and runs throughout the historic Charleston peninsula.
Route 210 (Orange) drives from College of Charleston to the Aquarium.
Route 211 (Green) drives to the waterfront, Old Exchange & Provost Dungeon, and City Market
Route 213 (Purple) drives to Brittlebank Park, Riley Stadium, historic city center.
All three routes converge at the Visitors Center, Marion Park and Charleston Museum.
Wait at an official CARTA bus stop, denoted by the green signs.

A reader asks “What is the top rated children/family friendly beach around besides Tybee Island?”

That got us thinking. Here are our picks:

Sea Pines Beach Resort, Hilton Head Is., S.C. Convenient access to the Surf Shop, restrooms, shower facilities & Surfside Market featuring to-go sandwiches, salads, snacks &  cold beverages. Details here.
87 North Sea Pines Drive, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina 29928. Details here. (While on HHI, be sure to check out Sandbox Children’s Museum (especially if it rains), the free petting farm at Lawton Stables, climb the Harbour Town Lighthouse or stay after dinner for a FREE kid-celebrated Gregg Russell concert at Harbour Town. ($6 Sea Pines Resort gate fee per auto) Details on Gregg Russell concerts here.

Neptune Park Fun Zone, St. Simons Island, Ga. Offers an 18 hole miniature golf course, an interactive Kiddie Pool, a zero entry swimming pool and playground right on the beach. Details here. 550 Beachview Dr. Saint Simons Island, Ga. 31522. Details here.

Hunting Island State Park, S.C. Five miles of pristine South Carolina beaches, thousands of acres of marsh and maritime forest, a saltwater lagoon and ocean inlet are all part of the park’s natural allure.
The historic lighthouse at Hunting Island State Park is the only publicly accessible lighthouse in South Carolina. For an admission of $2, visitors can climb the 167 steps & walk around the observation deck for a lofty view of the barrier island and surrounding seascape. CHILDREN MUST BE AT LEAST 44″ TALL TO CLIMB THE LIGHTHOUSE. Details here.

What better way to celebrate May then with a mother’s daughter tea. Here are some places to have tea in Savannah & Bluffton.

Tea in the Garden (during May only) at the Davenport House
324 E. State St.
Savannah, 31401
Thursdays & Fridays in May 2015
Program dates & times:
May 14, 15 at 4:15PM and May 22, 28, 29 at 5PM
Learn about tea traditions and experience an early 19th century tea in Davenport House’s beautiful courtyard garden. Patrons will visit areas of the home where tea service took place and will participate in an afternoon tea given with costumed interpreters in the garden
Admission: $18 for adults; $14 children ages 8-17 years
Reservations recommended. Limited attendance.
Length of Program: 60 to 75 minutes
The performance requires that guests be able to walk up and down stairs.
More details here.

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Tea year-round including children’s tea at the Cottage Café, Bakery & Tea Room
38 Calhoun Street, Bluffton, SC
Offers a variety of teas including light afternoon tea, cream tea, full cottage tea & children’s tea for children 10 & younger.
Details here.

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Afternoon Tea year-round at the Gryphon Tea Room
337 Bull St. Savannah, 31401
Details here.

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Tea Party with Alice, May 30

Join Alice and her princess friends for storytelling, games, crafts and a tea party on May 30 2015 in Savannah.
Every child will leave with magical memories and a gift from Alice.
Three sessions to choose from:
10AM, Noon, 2PM @ Cake it Away Bakery at 4700 E. Hwy 80 on Whitemarsh Island.
Cot: $18 per ticket.
Details here. 
This tea party is organized by Enchant My Party in Savannah , a children’s princess party business that sends costumed-princesses to homes or party spots to entertain at your child’s regal birthday party with storytelling; singing & dancing; crafts & games.

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

The TD Bank Hilton Head Island KIDS Triathlons
June 20 and August 1, 2015

TD BANK Hilton Head Island KIDS Triathlon #1
June 20, 2015 9AM
Location – Island Recreation Center – Hilton Head Island, SC

Register by clicking here. 

TD BANK Hilton Head Island KIDS Triathlon #2
August 1, 2015 9AM
Location – Island Recreation Center – Hilton Head Island, SC

Register by clicking here. 

Distances
Ages 4-6
Swim 25 Yds | Bike 0.5 Mi | Run 0.33 Mi
Ages 7-10
Swim 75 Yds | Bike 2 Mi | Run 1 Mi
Ages 11-14
Swim 125 Yds | Bike 3 Mi | Run 1.5 Mi

SouthernMamas.com regularly spotlights our favorite nearby daytrip spots to visit with kids outside of Savannah.

One of our favorite family daytrips from Savannah is Hilton Head Is.

Things to do with kids on Hilton Head Is. include:

1. Bicycling on Hilton Head Island

Hilton Head Island offers over 50 scenic miles of public bicycle pathways and nature trails. The hard-packed beaches are also popular for bicycling at low tide.

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2. Free family-friendly outdoor Gregg Russell concerts at Harbour Town, Sea Pines

A classic on Hilton Head Is. for almost four decades, Gregg Russell Concerts under the Liberty Oak in Harbour Town happen regularly during summer (weather permitting) & periodically during spring. Details here. 

During Summer 2015, Gregg Russell will perform his free kid-friendly outdoor concerts:
8PM-9:30PM
May 22-24
May 27-29
May 31-August 28 (every night except Saturdays)
September 3-6

This family-oriented singer/storyteller performs sing-a-longs, ballads & silly songs with audience participation. Kids in the audience try to get Gregg to pick them to sing a song to the crowd, often using creative pick-me posters etc. Concerts are free; there’s a $6 gate fee per auto.

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3. Free petting farm at Lawton Stables in Sea Pines

The free animal farm includes a deer named Callie, goats, sheep, chickens, rabbits, turtles, cows and rabbits.  Kids can also pet a friendly retired Clydesdale, Harley, at the stables. Pony rides and horseback riding available for a fee. The animal farm is free; there’s a $6 Sea Pines gate fee per auto. More info here. 190 Greenwood Drive, Hilton Head Island, 29928

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4. The wildflower garden & hiking trails in the free Sea Pines Forest Preserve

The 605-acre Sea Pines Forest Preserve includes easy trails to various points of interest including the 4,000-year-old Indian Shell Ring, listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and a wildflower garden that’s amazing when in bloom. The walks range from 25 minutes to one hour. Bicycles are not permitted on the nature trails, so please park your bicycles at the locations provided. Open from sunrise to sunset. The Forest Preserve is free; there’s a $6 Sea Pines gate fee per auto. More info here.

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5. Free Sea Pines Trolley

Take the free Sea Pines Trolley to all your favorite Sea Pines locations during summer months & some holiday periods. This is a great way to entertain kids who are still thrilled by “bus rides etc”. The trolley offers an easy way to get around Sea Pines while giving you a scenic tour of a favorite family vacation resort. Schedule info here. Trolley rides are free; there’s a $6 Sea Pines gate fee per auto. *Perfect rainy day activity

For Summer 2015, the free trolleys will run May 22 – Sept 6.

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6. The Sandbox Interactive Children’s Museum

18A Pope Ave
(843) 842-7645
Located just off Pope Avenue on the south end of the Island, this interactive museum provides a unique place for educational play between children and their parents, grandparents or caregivers. Little ones from infant to age 8 will be captivated by the fun filled play centers and engaging activities.

Summer 2015 Hours: The Sandbox be open Mon-Sat.: 10-5 June thru August, Sunday: Closed. For hours, click here.

May 2015
05/21/15 | Imagination Hour
05/25/15 | The Sandbox at Lawton Stables
05/28/15 | Imagination Hour
June 2015
06/04/15 | Imagination Hour
06/11/15 | Imagination Hour
06/17/15 | Parents Night Out (W)
06/18/15 | Parents Night Out (Th)
06/18/15 | Imagination Hour
06/24/15 | Parents Night Out (W)
06/25/15 | Parents Night Out (Th)
06/25/15 | Imagination Hour

July 2015
07/01/15 | Parents Night Out (W)
07/02/15 | Parents Night Out (Th)
07/02/15 | Imagination Hour
07/08/15 | Parents Night Out (W)
07/09/15 | Parents Night Out (Th)
07/09/15 | Imagination Hour
07/15/15 | Parents Night Out (W)
07/16/15 | Parents Night Out (Th)
07/16/15 | Imagination Hour
07/22/15 | Parents Night Out (W)
07/23/15 | Parents Night Out (Th)
07/23/15 | Imagination Hour
07/29/15 | Parents Night Out (W)
07/30/15 | Parents Night Out (Th)
07/30/15 | Imagination Hour

August 2015
08/05/15 | Parents Night Out (W)
08/06/15 | Parents Night Out (Th)
08/06/15 | Imagination Hour
08/13/15 | Imagination Hour
08/20/15 | Imagination Hour
08/27/15 | Imagination Hour

Details here. *Perfect rainy day activity

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7. Coastal Discovery Museum

70 Honey Horn Drive
Hilton Head Island, SC 29926
Educational natural history and animal programs at a venue that includes salt marsh board walks, open fields, gardens, trails and a 1200 square foot butterfly habitat that is home to some 13 species of native butterflies to the Lowcountry. *Perfect rainy day activity.
More info here.

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8. Go to the beach at the newly redone Sea Pines Beach Club. 

Convenient access to the Surf Shop, restrooms, shower facilities & Surfside Market featuring to-go sandwiches, salads, snacks &  cold beverages. Details here. 87 North Sea Pines Drive, Hilton Head Island, South Carolina 29928. The beach club is free; there’s a $6 Sea Pines gate fee per auto.

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9. Gregg Russell Playground at Harbour Town, Sea Pines

The Gregg Russell Playground at Harbour Town is one of the top playgrounds in our area. Fenced, somewhat shaded playground that includes a treehouse; swings; numerous slides; lots of climbing bars, jungle gym bars, monkey bars. Just outside the fenced-playground is a water fountain; picnic tables; bathrooms; and plenty of spots for lunch, drinks or coffee and of course, the famous Harbour Town lighthouse which is open to climb for a fee plus $6 Sea Pines gate fee per auto.  Harbour Town, Hilton Head, SC 29928

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10. FREE historical Stoney-Baynard Ruins, Sea Pines

The ruins of the old Baynard estate, the main house as well as attendant slave quarters, are permanently preserved within six-acre Baynard Ruins Park. The home was raided during the Civil War and Union forces made it their headquarters. Details here. The ruins are free; there’s a $6 Sea Pines gate fee per auto.

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For more kid-friendly daytrips/weekend getaways from Savannah, click here. 

The Richmond Hill Farmers’ Market

The City of Richmond Hill revamped Farmer’s Market. Each Tuesday from April until mid-October, the market will offer the best in local produce and crafts. The City has extended shopping hours from 2PM-7PM. The following vendors will be part of the Richmond Hill Farmer’s Market the entire season: Hardwicke Farms, Sage Wishes, FraLi Gourmet, Savannah River Farms, Woodland Swamp Farm, Sikes Honey, Foods of the Farm, and Farm Fresh Produce.

WHERE: J.F. Gregory Park
521 Cedar Street
Richmond Hill, Georgia 31324

WHEN: Tuesdays, 2 – 7 p.m.

MORE INFORMATION: For vendor updates, check the Richmond Hill Farmer’s Market Facebook page here or the City of Richmond Hill website here.

For information or market applications, contact Joy Lee at 912-756-6496 or jlee@richmondhill-ga.gov.

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Other Savannah & Lowcountry Farmers’ Markets

Pooler Farmers’ Market
4-7 PM Wednesdays
Open for 2015 season
Bring the kids to the market from 4:30-5 on Wednesdays for Story time and the tasting station. What a great way to introduce your little ones to seasonal produce.
Located at the Pooler Recreation Complex, 200 Preston Stokes Drive in Pooler, GA., off Pooler Parkway.
Details here.

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Wilmington Island Farmers Market

9 AM-1 PM Saturdays
Opens 2015 season. Runs every Saturday through June 27.
Saturdays, 9AM-1PM
Storytime 10-10:30 AM
Crafty Corner: Last Saturday of every month from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Details here.

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The Richmond Hill Farmers’ Market

2-7 PM Tuesdays
Opens for the 2015 season with a soft opening on March 31
Grand opening April 7
Located J.F. Gregory Park, 521 Cedar St., Richmond Hill.
Details here.
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Bethesda Academy Farm & Gardens Farm Stand

An organic farm stand managed by Bethesda students and staff. You can buy fresh produce, organic garden seedlings & farm-fresh eggs. Students are actively involved in planting, cultivating, and harvesting all items on-site at Bethesda Academy using sustainable, organic farming techniques.

Open the public.
3-5PM Wednesdays
Located at Bethesda Academy, 9520 Ferguson Ave., Savannah 31406
Details here or call 912.351.2061 On Facebook here.

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Forsyth Farmers Market
9 AM-1 PM Saturdays
Located at the South End of Forsyth Park, Savannah
Email: forsythfarmersmarket@gmail.com
Details here.

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Farmers Market of Bluffton 
Noon-4PM Thursday March 12 (Last Winter Hours Market)
2015 Season Grand Opening, March 19th, 2pm-7pm!
Spring/Summer/Fall Hours, 2PM-7PM Thursdays
Located at Carson Cottages in Old Town Bluffton, 40 Calhoun St. intersection of Calhoun Street & Lawrence Street, Bluffton, 29910-7014
Details here.

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Shelter Cove Park Farmers Market
2015 Season dates coming soon
Located Shelter Cove Community Park, 39 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island, S.C.
Details here.
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Buckwalter Farmers Market, Bluffton
Tuesdays from 2-6pm at Buckwalter Place Shopping Center, Bluffton, SC 29910
For more information about the Buckwalter Place Farmers Market, please visit their Facebook page here or email the Market Manager at manager@buckwalterfarmersmarket.com.

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Farmers Market @ Sea Pines Center, Hilton Head Is. 
The Farmer’s Market 2015 Season will begin Tuesday, March 31 2015 and run through Tuesday, December 29 2015.
10AM-2PM
71 Lighthouse Rd. (843) 322-1900.
Details here.

Come to Lawton Stables for a day of family-friendly fun to benefit The Sandbox Children’s Museum on Hilton Head Is.

Sandbox at the Stables
Monday, May 25
10AM-2PM
Lawton Stables, Sea Pines
Hilton Head Island, South Carolina 29928
Details here.

GENERAL ADMISSION: $5/person
CONCESSION AND ACTIVITY TICKETS: $1 each

Sea Pines entry fee is $6 per car (cash only).  
This fee is unrelated to Sandbox at the Stables and cannot be waived.
The Sandbox will bring all of the fun of Hilton Head Is/Bluffton’s only non-profit children’s museum to the beautiful setting of Lawton Stables in Sea Pines Resort

Make plans to spend Memorial Day with The Sandbox.

There will be pony rides, face painting, animal farm, pitching cages, GameTruck on site for the big kids, craft projects, mobile interactive museum exhibits,inflatable water slides and bounce houses.

Admission is $5 per person; additional tickets for activities and concessions are $1 each.

Sponsorship opportunities are available now. Call Alyson Barber, our Director of Development, at 843.842.7645 for more information.

Participants may bring their own picnic provisions and beverages.

Note: The Sandbox Children’s Museum at the Pope Avenue location will be CLOSED on Memorial Day.

There is a $6/per vehicle gate fee to enter Sea Pines Resort.

See you at the Stables.

Spring means many Savannah-Lowcountry area Farmers Markets reopen for the 2015 Season.

No more excuses for not buying locally-grown fruits and veggies.

Here are our favorites:

Pooler Farmers’ Market
4-7 PM Wednesdays
Open for 2015 season on March 4 2015
Bring the kids to the market from 4:30-5 on Wednesdays for Story time and the tasting station. What a great way to introduce your little ones to seasonal produce.
Located at the Pooler Recreation Complex, 200 Preston Stokes Drive in Pooler, GA., off Pooler Parkway.
Details here.

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Wilmington Island Farmers Market

9 AM-1 PM Saturdays
Opens for 2015 season March 7 2015 & runs every Saturday through June 27.
Saturdays, 9AM-1PM
Storytime 10-10:30 AM
Crafty Corner: Last Saturday of every month from 11:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
Located at Islands Community Church, 111 Waltour Road.
Details here.

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The Richmond Hill Farmers’ Market

2-7 PM Tuesdays
Opens for the 2015 season with a soft opening on March 31
Grand opening April 7
Located J.F. Gregory Park, 521 Cedar St., Richmond Hill.
Details here.
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Bethesda Academy Farm & Gardens Farm Stand

An organic farm stand managed by Bethesda students and staff. You can buy fresh produce, organic garden seedlings & farm-fresh eggs. Students are actively involved in planting, cultivating, and harvesting all items on-site at Bethesda Academy using sustainable, organic farming techniques.

Open the public.
3-5PM Wednesdays
Located at Bethesda Academy, 9520 Ferguson Ave., Savannah 31406
Details here or call 912.351.2061 On Facebook here.

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Forsyth Farmers Market
9 AM-1 PM Saturdays
Located at the South End of Forsyth Park, Savannah
Email: forsythfarmersmarket@gmail.com
Details here.

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Farmers Market of Bluffton
Noon-4PM Thursday March 12 (Last Winter Hours Market)
2015 Season Grand Opening, March 19th, 2pm-7pm!
Spring/Summer/Fall Hours, 2PM-7PM Thursdays
Located at Carson Cottages in Old Town Bluffton, 40 Calhoun St. intersection of Calhoun Street & Lawrence Street, Bluffton, 29910-7014
Details here.

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Shelter Cove Park Farmers Market

2015 Season dates coming soon
Located Shelter Cove Community Park, 39 Shelter Cove Lane, Hilton Head Island, S.C.
Details here.
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The ‘Broadway On Calhoun’ series continues at the Bluffton Farmers Market Spring Opening on Thursday, March 19 2015.

The cast of the Arts Center’s hit musical “Forever Plaid” will perform along with the Main Street Youth Theatre’s cast of “School House Rock”.

Free and open to the public.

The performances are scheduled to begin at 4:30 P.M. on Calhoun Street in Old Town Bluffton in the open space adjacent to The Dispensary.

The Arts Center’s highly requested “Forever Plaid” is a smash musical filled with close harmony “bop-shoo-bop” hits from the 50s and 60s on March 29 through April 4. The Main Street Youth Theatre’s “School House Rock” is a fun, fast paced pop culture phenomenon which opens on their stage on Friday, March 20.

Sponsors of the event are The Old Town Bluffton Merchants Society, The Bluffton Sun and The Hilton Head Sun and The Farmers Market of Bluffton.

Farmers Market of Bluffton
Located at Carson Cottages in Old Town Bluffton, 40 Calhoun St. intersection of Calhoun Street & Lawrence Street, Bluffton, 29910-7014
2015 Season Grand Opening, March 19th, 2pm-7pm!
Details here.

SouthernMamas.com regularly spotlights our favorite nearby daytrip spots to visit with kids outside of Savannah.

One of our favorite family daytrips from Savannah is Beaufort, S.C.

Things to do with kids in Beaufort, S.C. include:

Shark Tooth Fairy Shark Tooth Hunts
Go to a shark tooth hunt in Port Royal with Beaufort’s famed Shark Tooth Fairy. Friend him on Facebook here to  stay updated on when the next public beach shark tooth hunt for kids will happen. Details here. 

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The Kazoo Factory museum tours
See how kazoos are made at this museum featured on National Public Radio show All Things Considered. Read the story here.  The museum tours show how kazoos are assembled, imprinted, packaged and shipped worldwide. Kids can also make their own kazoos to take home.
Admission fees:
No charge to browse the museum.
Guided tours: $5 per person.
Children 3 and younger are free.
12 John Galt Road
Beaufort, SC 29906
(843) 982-6387
www.kazoofactory.com

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Spanish Moss Trail
Bike this 12-foot wide, 5-mile paved pedestrian trail through neighborhoods, marshes and more. When completed, the trail will be 13.6 miles.
Free.
Parking trail head
Depot Road
Beaufort, SC 29902.
www.spanishmosstrail.com

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Parris Island Marine Graduation
Graduation ceremonies are open to the public and typically held certain Friday mornings throughout the year. For the exact dates of specific graduation ceremonies, click here for the 2015 schedule.
The ceremony begins at 9 AM and typically lasts about an hour.
To enter Parris Island, you’ll need to have a valid driver’s license, proof of auto insurance and valid registration.
Free
283 Blvd De France
Parris Island, SC 29905
843-228-3650
http://www.mcrdpi.marines.mil/

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Hunting Island State Park and Lighthouse
For an admission of $2, visitors can climb the 167 steps and walk around the observation deck. Children must be 44” tall to climb the lighthouse, which is subject to close for repairs without notice.
2555 Sea Island PKWY
Hunting Island, SC 29920
(843) 838-2011
Admission Fees:
Adults: $5
SC Seniors: $3.25
Children 6-15: $3
Children 5 and younger are free
www.southcarolinaparks.com/huntingisland/

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Henry C. Chambers Waterfront Park Playground
Enjoy shaded play areas, restrooms, a grassy area for picnicking. Kids can watch fishermen showing their skills on the dock in front of the playground.
Free
1010 Bay Street
Beaufort, SC 29902
www.beaufort-sc.com/waterfront-park.html
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Pigeon Point Park playground
Includes fun playgroup equipment including a merry-go-around; restrooms; picnic tables; water fountains large oak trees that provide shade.
Pigeon Point Road
Beaufort, SC 29902
www.beaufort-sc.com/pigeon-point-park.html 

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Hwy. 21 Drive-In
End the day by taking  the kids to an old-fashioned drive in.
55 Parker Dr.
Beaufort, SC 29906
(843) 846-4500
Call the theater for ticket prices
http://hwy21drivein.com/

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For more kid-friendly daytrips/weekend getaways from Savannah, click here. 

This Tuesday, March 10th at 3:30PM, the MOMS Club of Bluffton/Hilton Head is hosting an open house at Dubois Park in Bluffton.

There will be a St Patricks day craft and a treat for the kids.

This is a great event for local moms to learn more about MOMS Club, meet some moms club members and learn what they do in the community.

Free & open to the public.

Can’t make it, but want to learn more? Visit bhhmoms.webs.com or email questions to momsclubofbhh@gmail.com

April Free Family Fun Night

April 10, 5:30-7:30pm

Join The Sandbox Children’s Museum on Hilton Head Is. for FREE FAMILY FUN NIGHT!

Free admission to the museum, bounce house (weather permitting), fun arts and crafts and face painting!

Bring a friend for this FREE night of fun! Light Picnic Dinner will be provided.

Family Fun Nights made possible in part by: The Bargain Box

(Normally the 1st Friday, the Sandbox moved to April 10th due to Good Friday Church Services at St Andrew by the Sea United Methodist Church and anticipated parking challenges)

For more information about The Sandbox, visit www.thesandbox.org  or call (843) 842-7645 or e-mail crinehart@thesandbox.org .

The Sandbox Children’s Museum, On Facebook here. 18-A Pope Avenue, next to St. Andrew’s by the Sea United Methodist Church, Hilton Head Is., 29928 www.thesandbox.org The Sandbox Children’s Museum is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

FOR MORE FREE SAVANNAH AREA KIDS’ EVENTS, CLICK HERE. 

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Sandbox April 2015 Hours

The Sandbox be open Monday – Saturday during the month of April, including Good Friday.

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St. Baldrick’s Savannah Annual Head-Shaving Event, March 7

Savannah’ annual St. Baldrick’s head-shaving event to raise funds for children’s cancer research will be 12:30 p.m. to 4 p.m., Saturday, March 7, in front of Wild Wing Café in Savannah’s City Market.

Volunteers shave their heads to show support for children who usually lose their hair during cancer treatment. They also raise funds to support children’s cancer research. You can sign up to have your head shaved or make a donation to sponsor someone who is getting shaved. Click here  to see a list of people who have already signed up to participate.

There will also be a St. Baldrick’s fundraiser on Thursday, February 19 from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. at Your Pie located at 7630 Skidaway Road, Unit A-1, in Savannah.

Since its inception in 2000, St. Baldrick’s Foundation has held more than 7,000 head-shaving events worldwide, raising more than $186 million for cancer research. The pediatric hematology/oncology program at Memorial University Medical Center, along with the Children’s Oncology Group, benefit from St. Baldrick’s in the form of clinical research trials for pediatric cancer patients.

For more information about the 2015 St. Baldrick’s event, contact Yael Elfassy-Conner at Yelpasso@hotmail.com.

Hilton Head Is. St. Baldrick’s Head-Shaving Event, March 14

Mellow Mushroom of Hilton Head Island will host the fourth annual St. Baldrick’s headshaving fundraiser on Saturday, March 14 from 3pm -to 5pm.

Joe DiNovo of Joe’s Barbershop will lead the team of Barbers shaving the heads of the Hilton Head area men, women and children, encouraging the community to support their action by making donations to their team.

The fund raiser – which also will feature a silent auction and live music – is organized by Terry and Cynthia Cermak, who started the event in honor of their son Henry. In 2013, St. Baldrick’s created a Hero Fund in his name: the Henry Cermak Fund for Pediatric Cancer Research. The Cermak’s headshaving events have raised over $50,000.00 for Henry’s Fund, and in July provided 50% of the funding for a research grant studying pediatric brain cancer treatments at St. Jude Hospital.

Volunteers can join a team or start their own team here.

Merchants who wish to help sponsor the event can call 843-476-4768 or email henrys1ups@gmail.com.

On Monday, March 23 2015 from 11AM to 5PM, The Storybook Shoppe in Bluffton will have Keith Donaldson, a silhouette artist and former Walt Disney World artist, coming to the store.

Donaldson will be cutting children’s pictures. The price is $30 and includes two matted silhouettes.

There’s a sign-up sheet at the store. If you would like your children to have a silhouette cut, please sign up for a time slot.

Keith is able to do two children at the same time for $50 and three children at the same time for $60. Frames will also be available for $15. The children need only sit for 3 minutes.

All ages are welcome including “wiggly” kids!

The Storybook Shoppe, 41A Calhoun St., Bluffton, SC (843) 757-2600, www.thestorybookshoppe.com