Wright Clarkson, Storyteller & Musician

Get ready for Earth Day with this special “Reduce, Reuse, Recycle!” program

StoryGuy Wright Clarkson combines musical instruments and costumes with his knowledge of cultures, traditions, myths and legends to lead his listeners to new worlds. He has taken a family heritage and infused it with an energy that makes each performance a magical experience that will spark a child’s imagination and fuel a youngster’s desire to learn. For ages 3 and older.

Hinesville Library, 368‐4003
Monday, April 14, 10:30 a.m.

Midway‐Riceboro Library, 884‐5742
Monday, April 14, 4 p.m.

Thunderbolt Library, 354‐5864
Tuesday, April 15, 11 a.m.

Oglethorpe Mall Library, 925‐5432
Tuesday, April 15, 4 p.m.

Bull Street Library, 652‐3600
Wednesday, April 16, 10:30 a.m.

Rincon Library, 826‐2222
Wednesday, April 16, 4:30 p.m.

Pooler Library, 748‐0471
Thursday, April 17, 10:30 a.m.

Islands Library, 897‐6233
Thursday, April 17, 1 p.m.

S.W. Chatham Library, 925‐8305
Thursday, April 17, 4:30 p.m.

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

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

Visit schedule and rates page for updated information. Mention you saw Coach Val’s Tumblegym on SouthernMamas.com site to receive 50% off annual registration fee. Various classes offered including:

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

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

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

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

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

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

Mention you saw Coach Val’s Tumblegym on SouthernMamas.com site to receive 50% off annual registration fee.

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

JEA Preschool Savannah Summer Camp 2014 provides a safe, nurturing, and fun environment where children will make new friends, enjoy exciting activities, learn new skills, and experience age-appropriate independence.

JEA Preschool Savannah staff is mature, professional, and loving with years of experience in working with the young child. They are trained in CPR, fire safety and first aid. Children will experience a wide range of activities including art, science, water play (with swimming instruction for the three and four year olds), music, games, cooking and more.

JEA Preschool Savannah welcomes children and families from the entire community and is the place to send your young child for lots of safe, summer fun. You do not have to be JEA member to attend.

– Weekly Shabbat celebrations for all ages
– Swimming lessons for children ages three and four
– Beaches, Bugs, and Babies as the summer theme
– Hands on experiences and activities
– Special guests and activities
– Half day and Full day options

2014 Summer Theme:

Bugs, Beaches, and Babies
Through intentional, play-based experiences, JEA Preschool Savannah provides the tools for lifelong learning. Those experiences will include learning about shells, waves and sand, as well as exploration of bugs and insects. Children will develop their fine motor skills when they paint with shaving cream on the art wall and their gross motor skills on the climbing structure in our new outdoor space.

Click here to register for the JEA Preschool Savannah Summer Program.

Download the Summer Program Guide here.

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

JEA Preschool Savannah is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

FOR MORE SAVANNAH SUMMER CAMPS 2014, CLICK HERE.

Bring your child to Kindermusik’s March play date:  “A Trip to the Zoo!”  Monday, March 24, at 11:10am in Savannah.

Class is open to children ages 0-7 and cost is $15 per family. All attendees receive an instrument, download card for 10 Kindermusik songs, and a BONUS gift at the end of class.

Class size is limited so enroll today at www.88keysga.com or call 912.988.KEYS.

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

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

Coach Val’s Tumblegym on Wilmington Is. is offering Summer 2014 mini-camps for ages 4-8 years old.

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

Registration is now open for Summer mini-camps at Coach Val’s Tumblegym, Wilmington Is.

For ages 4-8 years old. Time: 9 AM-noon or 9 AM-1 PM, Mon-Fri. Click here for more info.

The mini-summer camps are in a safe, air conditioned, bug-free environment!

Tumblegym’s experienced staff will keep your little one moving while having a great time.

Coach Val’s Tumblegym provides fun, imaginative exercise programs for children walking through 10 yr olds.

Their curriculum integrates physical skill acquisition with social and cognitive learning concepts.

Basic gymnastics and tumbling, ball handling skills, strength, balance, and all around coordination activities part of every class.

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

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

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

SUMMER CAMPS DISCOUNTS

Early Bird Discount: Receive 10% discount off any camps paid in full by April 15 2014.

SouthernMamas discount: Mention you saw Coach Val’s Tumblegym on SouthernMamas.com site to receive 50% off annual registration fee.

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

FOR MORE SAVANNAH SUMMER CAMPS 2014, CLICK HERE.

New themes for Savannah Kindermusik with 88 KEYS PIANO begin in March – it’s a great time to start up classes with your little one.

0’s and 1’s will be starting “Peas and Carrots” Mondays at 9:30am and 2’s and 3’s will be starting “Pet Parade” Mondays at 10:20am. Everyone is welcome to a free trial class! Register online today at www.88keysga.com (then click on the Kindermusik link).

Attention parents of children with special needs: 88 KEYS PIANO will be sponsoring a FULL SCHOLARSHIP for the month of March to one child with special needs – that includes one COMPLETELY free month of Kindermusik classes.

If you have a child ages with special needs 0-3 with any type of learning, hearing or other impairment or delay, and you think they would benefit from a free month of Kindermusik classes, please email 88 KEYS PIANO ASAP at music@88keysga.com  to receive the Scholarship application form. One winner will be notified by email on Saturday, March 1. All classes to be held on Monday mornings and winner must redeem scholarship prize in March.

Remember: One-time Kindermusik March Playdate: “A Trip to the Kindermusik Zoo” will be  11 AM Monday, March 24. This class is open to ages 0-7, and the cost is $15 per family. All participants will receive an instrument, a download card for 10 Kindermusik songs, and a special BONUS GIFT at the end of class. Register online today at www.88keysga.com . Class space is limited.

Online enrollment is available now at www.88keysga.com  or call 912-988-KEYS (5397).

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

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

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

Here are our picks for the best playgrounds in Savannah, Hilton Head Is., Beaufort, S.C. To see our ENTIRE list of playgrounds (the best & the so-so), click here.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Hilton Head Is/Beaufort, S.C.

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

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

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

FOR MORE FREE LOCAL KIDS’ ACTIVITIES, CLICK HERE.

Dog days

Got a shy beginner reader?

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

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

FOR MORE FREE LOCAL KIDS’ ACTIVITIES, CLICK HERE.

This week is a great time to plan a free visit to a Kindermusik class in Savannah for you and your little one!

Kindermusik will be starting up all new themes in March – 0’s and 1’s will be exploring “Peas and Carrots” on Mondays at 9:30am, while 2’s and 3’s will be starting “Pet Parade” on Mondays at 10:20am.

So come check out a free trial class in February to see what Kindermusik is all about.

For more info, visit www.88keysga.com , or call 912.988.KEYS (5397).

Also, join Kindermusik for their March Playdate: “A Trip to the Zoo!”, to be held Monday, March 24, from 11:10-11:50am.

Kindermusik Playdates are a wonderful way to plan a one-time outing for your Moms groups, friends, or a perfect time to make NEW friends for you and your little one! All playdate attendees will receive a download card for 10 Kindermusik Songs, an instrument, and a bonus gift at the end of class.

Siblings are FREE for playdates, and classes are geared for ages 0-7! Spaces are limited, so enroll today at www.88keysga.com

Online enrollment is available now at www.88keysga.com  or call 912-988-KEYS (5397).

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

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

SeussFest is coming to Savannah!

On March 1st and 2nd, Savannah Children’s Museum will celebrate the 110th birthday of Dr. Seuss. Even Savannah History Museum and WhistleStop Café are getting in on the fun this year. You don’t want to miss it.

This year, Savannah Children Museum is expanding SeussFest to include both the WhistleStop Cafe and Savannah History Museum!

Join SCM for tons of Seuss-themed activities like Story Time, art activities, science, recycling and fitness. Plan on getting messy with Oobleck!

The WhistleStop will be serving Green Eggs and Ham($4.99). At noon, there will a special story Time featuring Green Eggs and Ham on the WhistleStop Patio.

Savannah History Museum will be joining in the fun from noon-2pm with our “Hats Off” exhibit, a story Time featuring The Cat in the Hat and a special craft.

SeussFest is one of Savannah Children’s Museum’s enhanced programming offerings, meaning everything will take place during normal operating hours both March 1st (10-4) & March 2nd (11-4). All activities will be included in admission/membership.

Go to www.savannahchildrensmuseum.org or call 912-651-4292 for details.

Saturday 3/1/14, 10am-4pm
Sunday 3/2/14, 11am-4pm
Savannah Children’s Museum
655 Louisville Road
Savannah, GA 31401

Savannah Children’s Museum, www.savannahchildrensmuseum.org, 655 Louisville Rd., Savannah 31401, 912.651.4292 On Facebook here. Savannah Children’s Museum is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

Looking for a way to lose that baby weight without having to put your baby in childcare? Check out Stroller Strides of Savannah/FIT4MOM Savannah from in MOTION media on Vimeo.

FIT4MOM Savannah is a fitness program for moms offering pre and post-natal fitness classes for every stage of motherhood.

Classes & events in Pooler Tom Triplett Park, Richmond Hill, Savannah Mall.

Stroller Strides/Fit4MOM is a total fitness program that moms can do with their babies. Classes include running/ power walking and intervals of strength training. Please visit http://savannah.fit4mom.com/  for a complete listing of classes & pricing, (910) 987-5943, email natalialucero@fit4mom.com , Stroller Strides is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Attention parents of children between the ages of four & eight looking to play spring soccer in Savannah.

Check out Sweet Feet Academy Spring Program for Under 6 to Under 8 participants in Savannah

The Sweet Feet Academy Program is for children between the ages of four and eight.

The program focuses on the following ideas during all sessions:
•Fun
•Skill Development
•Learning
•Social Development
•Character Building/Enrichment
•Creation of a Positive, Family Centric Environment

The coaches at Storm Soccer Academy that work within the Sweet Feet Academy Program create a culture of learning and development at all sessions and game days. This program features one day of training (Tuesday) and one game day (Friday). Each session is one hour in length and the Storm Staff Coaches administer the entire session.

The first training session will be Tuesday March 4th from 4:30-5:30 PM at Jennifer Ross Soccer Complex and the first game will be Friday, March 7th from 5:30-6:30 at Savannah Christian DeRenne Campus. The program will continue until final game day on May 16th.

Please register by CLICKING HERE

Sweet Feet Academy, http://stormsocceracademy.com/, email bradnein@stormsocceracademy.com, (912) 257-3989, On Facebook here.  Sweet Feet Academy is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser

Angela Beasley’s Puppet People has put together a special puppet cabaret “Let the Good Times Roll” that will premier in Savannah on Saturday, Feb. 15 beginning with a pre-show tour and reception at 3 PM and the show starting at 3:30 pm @ the Puppet People studio, 3119 Furber Ave.

This unique Savannah family-friendly show will remind you of the ‘Good Times’ when music, dance and imagination entertained us all.

The show will follow Puppet People’s ‘little’ Little Richard as he searches high and low to find music and stories to raise spirits and excite the soul! Plus if you have never been entertained by our Life Size Puppets then prepare to see how this story will be brought to life during ‘Let the Good Times Roll’.

Order Tickets now by clicking here.

For all family members to enjoy. This Saturday matinee is a ‘can’t miss event’. Seating will be limited so don’t wait too long to purchase your tickets. Adults will be $15 and children under 12 and Seniors will be $12. Tickets can be purchased online by clicking here.

This show will sell out. See you on Feb. 15th.

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

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

Stroller Strong Moms in Savannah is adding YOGA to their schedule for classes in Savannah, Richmond Hill & Pooler!

Grand Opening of their Yoga classes will be February 5. Don’t miss out.

Yoga will continue to be on their schedule twice a month.

Stroller Strong Moms are super excited to announce their new yoga instructor is Lindsay Platky.

Come on and SLAM with Stroller Strong Moms and Stretch Like A Mother.

Newcomers are welcome.

For more information, email info@strollerstrongmoms.com

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

Come out to Skidaway Island State Park to enjoy FREE kids’ nature activities most Wednesdays-Sundays during February 2014 including on Monday Feb. 17 Presidents’ Day & free birding programs during the Great Backyard Birdwatch Feb. 14-17. To see the complete list of FREE kids’ nature activities @ Skidaway Is. State Park during February 2014, click here.

Skidaway Island State Park, 52 Diamond Causeway, Savannah , GA 31411. On Facebook here.

Great Backyard Bird Count at Fort Pulaski National Monument during FREE Admission Wknd

Bird watchers of all ages are invited to participate in the 2014 Great Backyard Bird Count (GBBC) at Fort Pulaski National Monument from Sat. Feb 15 to Mon. Feb 17, 2014. Free admission to the park on these dates in honor of Presidents Day weekend. 

Anyone from novice to expert bird watchers can take part in this annual event. No registration is needed. Bird checklists can be picked up at the Fort Pulaski Visitor Center. To participate, plan to count birds for at least 15 minutes on at least one day of the count. You can count birds on as many days as you like. Just complete a separate checklist for each new day. When you’re finished, enter your list online at www.BirdCount.org . All numbers will be tabulated for the park’s annual bird count.

For more information: http://www.nps.gov/fopu/naturescience/the-great-backyard-bird-count.htm

Bird watch with professional birders during FREE admission day at Fort Pulaski National Monument

Starting in February, Fort Pulaski National Monument will be partnering with the Ogeechee Audubon Society, the Savannah chapter of the National Audubon Society. Every 3rd Saturday at 8 AM, members of this organization will lead bird walks in the park. As the seasons change and birds migrate, there will be the opportunity to see new and different birds.

The first program of this collaboration will be on Sat. Feb 15. Interested birders can meet Nick Martens and Maureen Leong-kee near the park’s Entrance Station at 8 AM.  Be on the lookout for marsh sparrows, shorebirds, and sedge wrens. At 9 AM, Nick and Maureen will lead a bird walk through the park. These special programs will be offered each month at no charge.  

Fort Pulaski National Monument, off U.S. Highway 80, 12 miles east of Savannah, (912) 786-5787,  www.nps.gov/fopu. Learn more about Fort Pulaski National Monument on Facebook www.facebook.com/FortPulaskiNPS and Twitter www.twitter.com/FortPulaskiNPS.

Click here for a list of children’s books for young birdwatchers at Science Books for Kids

FOR MORE FREE LOCAL KIDS’ EVENTS, CLICK HERE.

Savannah KINDERMUSIK WITH 88 KEYS PIANO  are underway for February.

Classes for 2’s & 3’s: 0’s & 1’s! Kindermusik Monday morning classes are bursting with movement, joy & music, but there’s still ROOM FOR YOU!

Join next week for International “We love Kindermusik wk” – prizes, giveaways, coloring contests & a special community project called “Tops and Bottoms”!  Bring in baby tops (hats, caps, etc.) and bottoms (diapers) & Kindermusik will donate items to The Living Vine maternity home in Savannah. Don’t forget: free trial class.

For more info, visit www.88keysga.com or call 912.988.KEYS (5397) to set up a free visit.

Enrollment is ongoing, so it’s never too late to join us for Kindermusik….where a good beginning never ends.”

Classes are 9:30am for 0’s and 1’s, and 10:20am for 2’s and 3’s on Mondays, starting up next week!. Themes will be “Lil Red Caboose” and Go, Go, Go!”, so if you have a little one that loves music and always seems to be on the go, this is a perfect month to join Kindermusik!

Online enrollment is available now at www.88keysga.com  or call 912-988-KEYS (5397).

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

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

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

Check out Savannah Children’s Museum, next to Georgia State Railroad Museum. The museum offers daily kids’ activities Tuesdays-Sundays, weather permitting.

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

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

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

Daily programming subject to change.

Friday 1/31 (Open 10-4)
12:30 PM: Story Time: (a classic read-aloud program for children of all ages. The books read during each story time will be chosen based on the ages of children participating)

Saturday 2/1 programs (Open 10-4)
11 AM: Family Fitness (Brings the whole family together to learn about nutrition, health, and fitness in a fun and engaging way. This program is designed for children and adults to be participating together for maximum FUN and learning)
1 PM: Super Science (This is an experiment based science program that will introduce children to interesting science concepts through REALLY COOL investigations! This program is generally appropriate for ages 4-12.)
2 PM: Awesome Art (This goes beyond crafts to teach about different medias, artists, and techniques in a child friendly way. This program is generally appropriate for ages 4-12.)
3 PM: Story Time (a classic read-aloud program for children of all ages. The books read during each story time will be chosen based on the ages of children participating)

Sunday 2/2 programs (Open 11-4)
1 PM Wild about Reading! (a literacy based program that will include a read-aloud along with book based activities such as crafts, puppets, children’s theater, early reading skills, early writing skills etc. On Sundays, this program is for school age (ages 5-10).
3 PM Wonderful World of Recycling (introduces children to eco-friendly ideas and practices as well as nature-based education. This program is generally appropriate for ages 4-12)

Tuesday 2/4 programs (Open 10-4)
12:30 PM Story Time (a classic read-aloud program for children of all ages. The books read during each story time will be chosen based on the ages of children participating)

Wednesday 2/5 programs (Open 10-4)
2 PM Story Time (a classic read-aloud program for children of all ages. The books read during each story time will be chosen based on the ages of children participating)

Thursday 2/6 programs (Open 10-4)
11 AM Toddler Art ( program specifically geared to introduce toddler age children to new art-focused experiences that are highly sensory. This program is generally appropriate for ages 2-4.)

Friday 2/7 programs (Open 10-4)
12:30 PM Story Time (a classic read-aloud program for children of all ages. The books read during each story time will be chosen based on the ages of children participating)

Saturday 2/8 programs (Open 10-4)
11 AM: Family Fitness (Brings the whole family together to learn about nutrition, health, and fitness in a fun and engaging way. This program is designed for children and adults to be participating together for maximum FUN and learning)
1 PM: Super Science (This is an experiment based science program that will introduce children to interesting science concepts through REALLY COOL investigations! This program is generally appropriate for ages 4-12.)
2 PM: Awesome Art (This goes beyond crafts to teach about different medias, artists, and techniques in a child friendly way. This program is generally appropriate for ages 4-12.)
3 PM: Story Time (a classic read-aloud program for children of all ages. The books read during each story time will be chosen based on the ages of children participating)

Sunday 2/9 Super Museum Sunday FREE ADMISSION
There will be no regularly scheduled daily programming on February 9 at Savannah Children’s Museum, as it is Super Museum Sunday. Admission is free to all of the CHS sites. If you choose to come to Savannah Children’s Museum on Super Museum Sunday, you will be given a (first come, first served) 30 minute window of play and exploration in order to accomodate all of guests.

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

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

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

Please call 912-651-6823 for details.

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

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

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

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

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

Daily programming subject to change.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Other class options include:

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

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

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

Martial Arts for ages 5 & older. Click here

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Attention families with children ages 0-7.

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

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

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

New Kindermusik classes

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

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

Coming soon: in-house Kindermusik Studio

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

WCWM? (What Can We Make?)
Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays / 1-4 PM
Jepson Center’s Melaver Studio
The studios are open for drop-in visits for all ages. Free to members or with museum admission. Open to adults and children accompanied by an adult caregiver. More info available here.
Join us as we open the studios for drop in visits for all ages. wcwm? (What Can We Make?) focuses on developing problem-solving and critical thinking skills through imagination. Explore your creative side with inspiring activities utilizing recycled materials, found objects, and traditional art supplies. In addition to the wcwm? project kits, the studios provide watercolor and collage opportunities as well.
New to the wcwm? program is Family Make, in which participants are assigned a theme each month and a secret ingredient or tool to make art from the most unexpected materials. Before joining in one of our wcwm? theme challenges, check out these talking points and activities you can complete as a family.
February – Light things up with LEDs
Explore sculptural creations and make them light up using LEDs.
March – Color wheels
Explore color mixing and various properties of color.
April – Recycled crafts and community gardens
Explore crafts that re-purpose materials and make treasure from trash.

Toddler Third Thursday (3rd Thursday of every month)

10–11:30 am

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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