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?)

NEW HOURS: 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.

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.

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.

Are you a prenatal or postpartum mom looking for a butt-kicking program that will help you to get strong, lean, energized? Check out Stroller Strong Moms in Savannah’s Forsyth Park, a creative and fun total body workout for prenatal and postpartum moms with stroller age children.

You’re invited to the Grand Opening for Stroller Strong Moms, 9:30-10:30 AM Mon. Sept. 17, 2012.

There will be prizes and giveaways at the grand opening class.

Stroller Strong Moms offers a unique and challenging workout that’s constantly on the move. It uses the entire Forsyth Park in Savannah during class. Each fitness class will provide new and different walking/running routes and exercises in order to maximize fitness results and prevent boredom. For schedule & price info on Savannah classes, visit www.strollerstrongmoms.com & click savannah class. First class is free.

All exercises are introduced with multiple levels of difficulty so that moms of all fitness levels are able to workout together. Each class is designed so that your child has fun too.

“Like” Stroller Strong Moms Savannah page on Facebook here to stay updated.

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

A reminder for Savannah-area families of children ages 0-7 who are interested in enhancing and enriching the musical development of your child: Kindermusik early music education classes start the week of Sept. 9. Monthly enrollment is available online and classes are offered Monday-Fridays.

Come join Kindermusik parent-and-child sessions for a cool musical treat.

Kindermusik is a classroom learning experience. KINDERMUSIK with 88 KEYS PIANO in Savannah teaches children music so they can become better learners. It’s not about making little Mozarts. It’s about developing skills in the whole child – ages newborn to 7 years – cognitive, physical, social, emotional, language and musical. For more than 25 years, Kindermusik has believed music is the best conductor for learning.

Brand NEW school year classes with monthly subscription: All classes last 32 weeks, from the week of September 10 through May of 2013.
Here are some notable benefits of Kindermusik’s monthly subscription classes:
1. Easy automated MONTHLY payment systems. No more lump sum “semester” fees due. Now you can easily budget for Kindermusik classes all year round because the payment is the same EVERY month.
2. NO PAYMENT until September: Reserve your space TODAY with NO FEES TAKEN until Sept. 4. Secure your child’s spot in class without any financial commitment until the Fall.
3. Easy to stay enrolled; easy to withdraw if needed. Just let Kindermusik know by email before the first of each month and your credit/debit card won’t be billed the following month. Monthly billing is done on the 4th of each month.
4. Easy to transfer classes when your child gets to be the next age level. No more waiting until a new “semester” begins. When your child is old enough to move up, just let Kindermusik know and they’ll move them at the beginning of the next month. Simple and convenient.
5. New monthly mini-themes and new home materials with each change of session.
6. Twenty-two classes to choose from each week; M-F, 9am-5pm. Choose the one that’s best for YOU.
7. Unlimited make-ups! Just email or call Kindermusik to let them know so they can make sure there’s space in class.
8. Smiles and satisfaction guarantee: If you aren’t completely satisfied with your Kindermusik experience after one month, just send Kindermusik an email before the 1st of the month to let them know and they won’t debit your card the following month. If any materials were given, they are yours to keep without further obligations.
9. If you ARE completely satisfied with your Kindermusik experience, take advantage of the REFERRAL REWARDS: If you are enrolled and you bring in a NEW Kindermusik family, Kindermusik will credit your account for $10 for the next consecutive month. PLUS, Kindermusik will give your friend a FREE download card for 10 FREE songs from play.kindermusik.com.

Register online today here, as all class sizes are limited!

DIGITAL HOME MATERIALS: Get out your smartphones and iPads. On Friday mornings, Kindermusik will be offering classes for 3 age groups with DIGITAL home materials.

Monday thru Thursday classes, plus Friday afternoon classes will still be using PHYSICAL home materials. These Friday morning classes will turn over NEW themes EACH month, so you will get new materials EACH month.

More info on all of the above by clicking here.

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

Islands MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) is ready for another great year.

The group’s first meeting of the year will be Wed. Sept. 12 2012 from 9:15-11:30 AM at First Baptist Church of the Islands.

For more information about how to join MOPS, please check out their website by clicking here.
Each meeting provides an inviting environment where women can come—just as they are—to build friendships, be encouraged, and gain practical parenting strategies all while their children are lovingly cared for in our MOPPETS program, where they experience love and encouragement in a preschool-like setting. The children will enjoy stories, music, crafts and free play.
A typical meeting includes sharing a breakfast together, listening to a speaker, participating in table-led discussions, crafts, and more. Sometimes all you need is a friend, and Islands MOPS is a place where true friendships are formed. We are all in this together and no one can understand as another mother can.

To find a moms group in your area, click here.

FROGwarts!

Savannah Children’s Museum is hosting a fabulously MAGICAL event on September 8th from 5-7pm called FROGwarts! It’s their very own twist on a familiar book/movie series that you surely don’t want to miss. Cost is $5 for a member family ($5 covers up to 5 people!) and $7.50 per person for non-members.

To get more information and to pre-register for FROGwarts, click HERE! Pre-registration is appreciated and will make your wait for The FROGwarts Express shorter.

Once inside the museum’s Exploration Station, families will find all sorts of magical activities including: The Matching Hat, Wand Making, Potions Class, The Wizardly Wonder Maze, a game of Ribbitch, and magical snacks!

Feel free to wear your ‘school robes’ (a bathrobe or dress-up cape) and any magical attire you desire!

For more info, click here.  To register, click here.

Fall Hours of Operation @ Savannah Children’s Museum

Savannah Children’s Museum hours of operation will also change as of September 2nd and the museum will begin offering daily programming Thursday-Monday . Click HERE to see what the new hours will be!

Savannah Children’s Museum Exploration Station, $7.50 per person ages 1 and older, 655 Louisville Rd, Savannah, GA, 31401. Next to Georgia State Railroad Museum,

We’re thrilled to learn that the popular Toddler Tuesday weekly nature program at Oatland Island Wildlife Center in Savannah will resume after a summer hiatus. The first Toddler Tuesday of the 2012-13 season will be Tues. Sept. 4. Theme is “School is for Fish”.

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

Oatland’s new naturalist Michelle Kelly will lead the sessions. Pre-registration required.

Programs at 10 AM & 11 AM Tuesdays. Pre-registration required. Call 395-1500

Toddler Tuesday Program Fees for 2011-2012: General: $5 per child $5 per adult Friends of Oatland Members: $5 per child, up to 2 adults FREE!

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

Oatland Island Wildlife Center Wildlife, 711 Sandtown Rd. Savannah, GA, 31410 (912) 395-1212

Driving directions here.

MusikGarten offers classes on Tuesdays – Wednesdays – Fridays starting September 11th, 12th, 14th;
Feel invited to learn more HERE

Children are naturally drawn to music. By engaging your children in music classes you are not only giving them a “leg-up” on their musical development but on all other educational pursuits as well.

Everybody Plays – At Every Age

Coastal Orff Academy ages 9 to 12
The Coastal Orff Academy is now accepting students age 9-12 for group music classes.
In game-like atmosphere students explore and learn music fundamentals by playing, singing, and moving.
Everyone is welcome and no prior music knowledge is required.
Classes on Saturdays 2-3:30 PM start September 8th
Please find more information and details HERE

Instrument Circle
Get expert advice in choosing the right band instrument.

Private Lessons
For Trumpet, Trombone and Tuba; Saxophone, Clarinet and Flute; Guitar, Bass;
Violin, Viola, Cello and Contra bass; Drums, Piano and Voice;

Please find more information and details HERE or pay MusikGarten a visit at their New Location:

Georgia Music Warehouse 2424 Abercorn – 31401 Savannah GA

Musikgarten offers parent-and-child classes @ Georgia Music Warehouse, 2424 Abercorn St, Savannah, 31401. (Rear Lot entrance) FREE Preview classes.  More info here. Musikgarten is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

Stroller Strides® of Savannah is a total fitness program that moms can do with their babies. Classes include power walking and intervals of strength training.

Classes are designed for all moms with any level of exercise. Certified instructors will guide you through exercises that will strengthen your bodies and give you the energy you need for the awesome gift of motherhood.

Classes are 8 AM Tuesdays & Thursdays at Lake Mayer. The first class is free and Stroller Strides of Savannah will offer a special discount if you mention you heard about Stroller Strides of Savannah on SouthernMamas.com!

How can I sign up ?

Register for your free class by clicking here and see all the different class packages offered, by clicking on the “More Info” button in one of the class boxes on the left. You can sign up for any class package when you show up for class, with your instructor.

What if my baby is fussy?

Stroller Strides of Savannah welcomes babies from 6 weeks to any age. Babies are Stroller Strides’ priority, so don’t worry if yours is fussy!

What should I bring to class?

* Water
* A towel, blanket or yoga mat for ab exercises and stretching
* A hat and/or sunscreen
* Anything you may think your baby needs ( snacks, bottles, sippy cups, toys, potty training toilet)
* A stroller ( any stroller will do as long as it does not tip over)

What should I wear to class ?
Wear something comfortable that you can move ( power walk,jog, stretch) easily in. Please make sure that you have comfortable tennis shoes on.

Please arrive 10 to 15 minutes early to class so you don’t get left behind.

On Facebook

Stay connected with Stroller Strides Savannah and learn about new classes & updates by liking them on Facebook here.

Stroller Strides of Savannah, contact Natalia Lucero at (910) 987-5943, email natalialucero@strollerstrides.net , http://classes.strollerstrides.net/savannah/location/index.aspx  Stroller Strides of Savannah is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

Balloon artist Lynnae Weller, owner of Bend Out A Shape Balloons, needs your help searching for clues in a series of strange events as you travel together through well-loved children’s books such as “Sheep in a Jeep” by Nancy Shaw; “Llama, Llama, Red Pajama” by Anna Dewdney; and “Goodnight Moon” by Margaret Wise Brown.  Ages 3 and up.

Tuesday, Sept. 4, 11 a.m., Thunderbolt Library
Tuesday, Sept. 4, 4 p.m., Oglethorpe Mall Library
Wednesday, Sept. 5, 11 a.m., West Broad Library
Wednesday, Sept. 5, 4:30 p.m., Rincon Library
Thursday, Sept. 6, 10:30 a.m., Pooler Library
Thursday, Sept. 6, 4:30 p.m., Springfield Library
Tuesday, Sept. 11, 11 a.m., Tybee Library
Tuesday, Sept. 11, 4:30 p.m., Islands Library
Wednesday, Sept. 12, 10:30 a.m., Bull St. Library
Wednesday, Sept. 12, 4:30 p.m., W. W. Law Library
Thursday, Sept. 13, 10:30 a.m., Hinesville Library
Thursday, Sept. 13, 4:30 p.m., Southwest Chatham Library

Lynnae Weller, owner of Bend Out A Shape Balloons, has been doing children’s birthday parties for over 6 years with many happy clients.

Birthday party package: Each birthday child gets a large, unique balloon sculpture that is tailored to your theme. Every child at the party will get the chance to “Stump the Balloon Artist” by requesting their own individual creation.  There are always plenty of games and fun with a party from Bend Out A Shape Balloons.

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

Like Bend Out A Shape Balloons on Facebook here.

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

The cost of Baby Sign & Read Classes for parents with children from the ages of 0-3 yrs old has decreased from $125 to $85.

The Baby Sign & Read Classes are now being offered in Savannah by Giving in Love, Inc. Sign & Read classes focus on parent-child interactions, communication, and reading.

Parents learn how they can nurture their child’s language, cognitive and social-emotional development through three key areas of communication: talking, reading and signing.

There are 8 classes in the first session. Class options are 10:45am on Thursdays beginning September 6 at the West Broad Street YMCA located at 1110 May Street, Savannah, GA 31415 or 11:00am on Fridays starting September 7, 2012 at Bouncing Angels, 2123 E. Victory Dr., Savannah, GA 31404.

For more information, please call (912) 388-1658 or visit www.givinginlove.org  .

”Like” Giving in Love on Facebook here.

Giving in Love, Inc is a non-profit & a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

Don’t forget about FREE Kindermusik classes happening this week of Aug. 20 for ages 0-7.

The FREE DEMO DAYS at Kindermusik with 88 KEYS PIANO will be Wed. Aug. 22 and on Fri. Aug. 24. These will be a preview of the classes that begin in September. Preregisteration required for these FREE DEMO classes, as space is limited to 12 and classes fill up quickly. Register here.

Below is the schedule for FREE DEMO CLASSES:
**FREE Village DEMO (0-20 months): 9:30am
**FREE Our Time DEMO (18 months to 3.5 years): 10:20am
**FREE Imagine That DEMO (3-5 years): 11:10am
**FREE Young Child DEMO (5-7 years): 4pm

Also, short one-week Just Mom’n’Me” Kindermusik session is the week of August 26: Did Big Brother or Big Sister go back to school recently? How about easing the transition for your little one by spending some quality time with him/her? Kindermusik will be offering “Peek A Boo, I Love You!” for 0-20 months, and their brand new curriculum, “Time for Lunch” for toddlers, ages 18 months to 3 years old! Peek A Boo meets M-F at 9:30 and Time for Lunch meets T-F at 10:20. Register online today here, as all class sizes are limited!

More info on all of the above and on the upcoming new Kindermusik school year classes  by clicking here.

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

Baby Sign & Read Classes for parents with children from the ages of 0-3 yrs old are now being offered in Savannah by Giving in Love, Inc.

Sign & Read classes focus on parent-child interactions, communication, and reading. Parents learn how they can nurture their child’s language, cognitive and social-emotional development through three key areas of communication: talking, reading and signing.

There are 8 classes in the first session. Class options are 10:00am or 10:45am on Thursdays beginning September 6 at the West Broad Street YMCA located at 1110 May Street, Savannah, GA 31415 or 11:00am on Fridays starting September 7, 2012 at Bouncing Angels, 2123 E. Victory Dr., Savannah, GA 31404.

Registration ends on August 31, 2012. For more information, please call (912) 388-1658 or visit www.givinginlove.org  “Like” Giving in Love on Facebook here.

Giving in Love, Inc is a non-profit & a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

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

Classes available:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Attention Savannah-area Families of Children Ages 0-7 who are interested in enhancing and enriching the musical development of your child.

Come join Kindermusik parent-and-child sessions for a cool musical treat in August, and again in the Fall with more Kindermusik and find out about some FREE Kindermusik classes.

Kindermusik is a classroom learning experience. KINDERMUSIK with 88 KEYS PIANO in Savannah teaches children music so they can become better learners. It’s not about making little Mozarts. It’s about developing skills in the whole child – ages newborn to 7 years – cognitive, physical, social, emotional, language and musical. For more than 25 years, Kindermusik has believed music is the best conductor for learning.

AUGUST 15th playdates: Join Kindermusik with your 3.5 and younger children for a morning of one-time playdates. It’ll be ONE HOUR of solid musical fun beginning at 9:30am for babies (up to 20 months) and 10:40am for toddlers (18 months to 4 years). Sessions begin with an instrument “petting zoo”, followed by structured musical activities sure to delight all. Gather together your playdate groups for one morning of musical playdates. Expect to see these one-time playdates pop up at random times throughout the school year.

“Just Mom’n’Me” one-week session the week of August 26: Did Big Brother or Big Sister go back to school recently? How about easing the transition for your little one by spending some quality time with him/her? Kindermusik will be offering “Peek A Boo, I Love You!” for 0-20 months, and their brand new curriculum, “Time for Lunch” for toddlers, ages 18 months to 3 years old! Peek A Boo meets M-F at 9:30 and Time for Lunch meets T-F at 10:20.

Register online today here, as all class sizes are limited!

FREE Kindermusik classes: FREE DEMO DAYS at Kindermusik with 88 KEYS PIANO on Wed. Aug. 22 and on Fri. Aug. 24. These will be a preview of the classes that begin in September. Preregisteration required for these FREE DEMO classes, as space is limited and classes fill up quickly. Register here.

Below is the schedule for FREE DEMO CLASSES:
**FREE Village DEMO (0-20 months): 9:30am
**FREE Our Time DEMO (18 months to 3.5 years): 10:20am
**FREE Imagine That DEMO (3-5 years): 11:10am
**FREE Young Child DEMO (5-7 years): 4pm

Brand NEW school year classes with monthly subscription: All classes last 32 weeks, from the week of September 10 through May of 2013.
Here are some notable benefits of Kindermusik’s monthly subscription classes:
1. Easy automated MONTHLY payment systems. No more lump sum “semester” fees due. Now you can easily budget for Kindermusik classes all year round because the payment is the same EVERY month.
2. NO PAYMENT until September: Reserve your space TODAY with NO FEES TAKEN until Sept. 4. Secure your child’s spot in class without any financial commitment until the Fall.
3. Easy to stay enrolled; easy to withdraw if needed. Just let Kindermusik know by email before the first of each month and your credit/debit card won’t be billed the following month. Monthly billing is done on the 4th of each month.
4. Easy to transfer classes when your child gets to be the next age level. No more waiting until a new “semester” begins. When your child is old enough to move up, just let Kindermusik know and they’ll move them at the beginning of the next month. Simple and convenient.
5. New monthly mini-themes and new home materials with each change of session.
6. Twenty-two classes to choose from each week; M-F, 9am-5pm. Choose the one that’s best for YOU.
7. Unlimited make-ups! Just email or call Kindermusik to let them know so they can make sure there’s space in class.
8. Smiles and satisfaction guarantee: If you aren’t completely satisfied with your Kindermusik experience after one month, just send Kindermusik an email before the 1st of the month to let them know and they won’t debit your card the following month. If any materials were given, they are yours to keep without further obligations.
9. If you ARE completely satisfied with your Kindermusik experience, take advantage of the REFERRAL REWARDS: If you are enrolled and you bring in a NEW Kindermusik family, Kindermusik will credit your account for $10 for the next consecutive month. PLUS, Kindermusik will give your friend a FREE download card for 10 FREE songs from play.kindermusik.com.

DIGITAL HOME MATERIALS: Get out your smartphones and iPads. On Friday mornings, Kindermusik will be offering classes for 3 age groups with DIGITAL home materials.

Monday thru Thursday classes, plus Friday afternoon classes will still be using PHYSICAL home materials. These Friday morning classes will turn over NEW themes EACH month, so you will get new materials EACH month.

More info on all of the above by clicking here.

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

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

Two Special Puppet Shows Added to Summer Line-up!

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

“Friends” August 10th

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

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

“Little Red Riding Hood” August 31st

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

Friday, August 31st

11:00 AM

The Puppet Place

3119 Furber Ave.

Savannah, GA 31404

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

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

All American Gymnastics’ Fall Term starts next week, Aug. 6 2012.

Registrations are going on all week. Several classes are filling fast, so make sure you sign up early. Check out the Fall 2012 Class Schedule here.

Please tell them SouthernMamas.com sent you!

All American is NOW offering a Tiny Cheer Team for ages 4-5. Practices are on Mondays from 4-5:30.

FACEBOOK:  “Like” All American Gymnastics on Facebook here for more updates & pictures from all of their programs.

OPEN GYM EVERY SUNDAY:
Sunday’s from 6-7:30 & Tuesday from 6:15-7:45
Cost is $10 per day
Must be 10 years old or permission from a coach if younger

All American Gymnastics, 7808 White Bluff (across from Hunter AAF) (912) 354-4343, email sam.allamericangymnastics@gmail.com, www.aagsavannah.com  On Facebook here. All American Gymnastics is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

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

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

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

Forsyth Park @ 700 Drayton Street, Savannah 31401, includes two playgrounds with bathrooms, café, spray pool, paved sidewalk for walking, biking. Pack a lunch (or eat at the café) & spend the day in this landmark, historic park. Check out the gated garden for the blind if it’s unlocked, the park fountains & kids can dance to their heart’s content on the bandshell’s canopied stage.

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Hull Park Spray Pool, Ardsley Park, Savannah

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

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

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

Lake Mayer @ 1850 E. Montgomery Crossroads Savannah, 31406 includes a completely redone playground with new equipment, mulch; also picnic tables, two pavilions available for rent, tennis courts, lighted basketball courts, 1.5 jogging/bike paved trail with fitness course, lake, boat ramps, restrooms, baseball field, lighted hockey rink, dog exercise area. Details here.

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

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Mother Mathilda Beasley playground.

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

Scott Stell Park, 195 Scott Stell Community Park Savannah, 31419 includes playground, restrooms, three pavilions available for rent, tennis courts, lighted basketball courts, jogging/bike paved trail w/ fitness course, baseball fields, dog exercise area, volleyball play areas, archery range

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

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

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

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

A SouthernMamas.com reader & her family were so impressed with the new Savannah Children’s Museum EXPLORATION STATION on the grand opening last Saturday that they are going back again this week!

We can’t wait to check it out.

The Exploration Station is an outdoor venue and water and sunscreen are strongly encouraged.

Exploration Station is a 1 acre, two level, outdoor exhibit area built in the ruins of a Central of Georgia building. Exploration Station’s goals are to connect children with nature, encourage learning through outdoor play emphasizing the importance of daily activity for a healthy lifestyle, and planting the seeds for preservation of historic buildings.

MUSEUM ADMISSION & MEMBERSHIP COSTS
General admission: $7.50 per person, ages 1 and older.

Hours of Operation
Tuesday – Sunday from 9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Savannah Children’s Museum Exploration Station, 655 Louisville Rd, Savannah, GA, 31401. Next to Georgia State Railroad Museum

Looking for active summer classes for your little one?

Coach Val’s Tumblegym has just the thing in a safe, air conditioned, bug-free environment! Their experienced staff will keep your little one moving while having a great time.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Coach Val’s Tumblegym on Wilmington Is. is offering summer mini-camps for ages 4-7 years old. Call 912-268-6003 or email val@coachvals.com.

Summer mini-camps at Coach Val’s Tumblegym, Wilmington Is.
For ages 4-7 years old
Time: 9 AM-noon (early drop-off & late pick-up available)
3 day option (MWF) & 2 day (Mon & Wed)option available
Click here for more info & see below.

Coach Val's Tumblegym mini camps, Wilmington Island

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.

The Sandbox – An Interactive Children’s Museum , Hilton Head Is., kicks off summer fun programs.

Summer programs include Pottery classes, Cupcake Decorating, Crafty Kids, Summer Fun Craft Activity, Interactive Art Classes led by local artist Veronica Martini, Parents night Out, Imagination Hour, and Coastal Critters by Coastal Discovery Museum.

The Crafty Kids Program includes sand art, tie dye shirts, and oyster shell art. The Interactive art classes include Picture Frame Art, Sand-Hand Mosaic, and a Go Green Gator made from repurposed products.

The Sandbox is an interactive children’s museum with region related exhibits, activities and programs for children’s ages 9 years and under. There’s a toddler area perfect for the little ones who are crawling and sitting up to 3. The museum hours are Monday-Saturday 10 AM to 5 PM.

The Sandbox, 18-A Pope Ave., next to St. Andrew By-The-Sea United Methodist Church. For more information, call 843.842.7645 or log on to www.thesandbox.org  for information, including date and time, on these programs.

Public “J-Low & Friends” Shows!

During the Summer of 2012, Angela Beasley’s Puppet People will be hosting several showings of “J-Low & Friends” that will be open to the public!
-Think Juliette Gordon Low is “just the Girl Scout Lady?” Well, think again! Join the Puppet People for the completely true, totally not made up life story of Savannah’s own J-Low: an Artist, a Feminist, a Teacher, a Traveler, a LEADER!
Her life was so BIG, we needed a whole crew of local musicians, artists, writers, sculptures, storytellers and singers to tell it. We crammed as much adventure, laughs, heartbreak and impossible stories in to a 45 minute show as “puppetly possible!”
Dates:
– June 30th — 11:00 AM
– July 5th — 2:00 PM
– August 18th — 11:00 AM
– September 1st — 10:00 AM
* Dates subject to change and addition.*Place:The Puppet Place
3119 Furber Ave.
Savannah, GA 31404*** Mention this code: “SM006” and get 10% OFF tickets for “J-Low & Friends”***

Summer Friday Shows are BACK!

Every Friday during the Summer of 2012 Angela Beasley’s Puppet People will be preforming a puppet show, open to the public. Shows will include Back Stage Pass Tour and a Puppet Craft. Call for Reservations. Puppet shows and Puppet crafts may vary.
Fridays June 1 – August 31
11:00 AM – 12:00 PM
The Puppet Place
3119 Furber Ave.
Savannah, GA 31404
Cost: $10 Per Person; $7 for parents
*** Mention this code: “SM006” and get $1.00 OFF each ticket for the “Summer Friday Shows”***

“Puppet Peeps Club Card”
This summer Puppet People will be introducing our “Puppet Peeps Club Card!”
Just ask for this FREE card when you come to one of the Friday show and make sure to get it stamped. After you get 5 stamps for seeing 5 shows you will be able to see the 6th for FREE! This is great for Puppet People’s regular crowd!

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

The ever-popular Ms. Amy’s School of Music in Savannah is adding two more parent-and-me group classes for Summer 2012!

Toddler Tunes new classes for students from 18 mos. – 3 years are Tuesdays from 11:00-11:45 starting June 5 2012. Mixed Music Makers for students from 3 – 5 years is on Fridays from 10-10:45 AM starting on June 8 2012! These new classes are in addition to the kids’ parent-and-me classes offered on Wednesdays & Saturdays throughout the year. See the schedule below.

Email msamyschoolofmusic@gmail.com or 912.659.0993.

You can start your session any week including this one! Think of it as a punch card that you can use any time classes are held. For details, click here. Please say SouthernMamas.com sent you!

Parent-and-me group music classes for Summer 2012 at Ms. Amy’s School of Music

Tuesdays (starting June 5)
11-11:45 AM (Toddler Tunes for students from 18 mos. – 3 years.)

Wednesdays (ongoing)
10-10:45 AM (Class for ages 18 months – 3 years)
11-11:45 AM (Class for ages 3-5 years)

Fridays (starting June 8)
10-10:45 AM (Mixed Music Makers for students from 3 – 5 years. )

Saturdays (ongoing)
10-10:45 AM (Class for ages 6 months – 5 years)

Ms. Amy also offers other types of music lessons: private and group music instrument lessons for piano, woodwinds, brass, voice, music discovery, and beginner guitar. Ms. Amy is currently unable to accept new students for instrument lessons as her schedule is full. If you would like to schedule a trial lesson and reserve a spot on the waiting list, please contact msamsychoolofmusic@gmail.com.

Connect with Ms. Amy’s School of Music on Facebook here. For more info, visit www.msamyschoolofmusic.com, email msamyschoolofmusic@gmail.com , 912.659.0993, 1 ½ blocks from Daffin Park at 2421 Waters Ave. Ms. Amy’s School of Music is a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.

Telfair Museums ArtZeum at the Jepson Center has four new exhibits especially designed for preschool children and families.

The ArtZeum is in the Telfair Museum’s Jepson Center, 207 W York St, Savannah GA 31401 More info here. Telfair Museums are a SouthernMamas.com advertiser.