Macaroni Kid
Manhattan East Side
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Win a $100 Gift Card to Marshalls/T.J. Maxx!


Marshalls & T.J. Maxx have everything you need to make back-to-school shopping stylish & affordable!

Last week, I was fortunate enough to attend a back-to-school preview event at the Marshalls/T.J. Maxx complex located in the heart of Chelsea on 6th Avenue and 18th Street.  The event was actually a real heartwarmer for me as I have fond recollections of doing back-to-school shopping with my mother at the Marshalls and T.J. Maxx stores located in Southern California when I was a kid.  Marshalls was my mom's all-time favorite store - she could get lost in there for hours finding deal upon deal.  It ...


A Trip to the American Museum of Natural History


Kleenex is donating $500,000 to 100 schools across the country to support field trip programs!

Last week, Kleenex and The Motherhood invited my daughter Sadie and I on the ultimate field trip - a visit to one of our favorite NYC landmarks, the American Museum of Natural History.  And who doesn't love a field trip?  I have fond recollections of the numerous field trips I took during elementary, middle and high school to cultural institutions all over Los Angeles, including the Getty Villa, the La Brea Tar Pits, and even Universal Studios (not sure how that counted as educational, but hey, I wasn't going ...


Summer Pasta Recipes from Barilla


Barilla's "Summer of Italy" celebration continues with cooking classes at Eataly!

Last night, I had the distinct pleasure of attending a cooking class at Eataly's La Scuola cooking school led by Barilla's Executive Chef Lorenzo Boni.  As you'll recall, Barilla recently kicked off its amazing "Summer of Italy" celebration right here in New York City.  Over the coming weeks, Barilla will be bringing the sights, sounds and tastes of Italy to New Yorkers via a series of events, including cooking classes, a four-day Casa Barilla festival in Central Park, and a one-of-a-kind performance by the incomparable Andrea Bocelli ...


Supernanny's Tips for Dealing with Picky Eaters


Supernanny Jo Frost serves up some sage advice on dealing with mealtime madness!

Let's face it - mealtimes with kids are no easy feat.  I was horrified when my former omnivore of a toddler suddenly decided she despised all vegetables save for carrots and the broccolini served alongside her beloved chicken tenders at California Pizza Kitchen (clearly just a ploy to get me to take her there more often).  Although my daughter is a better eater than many kids her age, I often struggle to make sure she eats the right balance of protein, fruits, vegetables, dairy and grains each day, and that ...


This Week's Picks:


August 19th through August 25th

Friday, August 19 - Fishing Storytime at the Mount Vernon Hotel Museum & Garden

This month's storytime will be all about fishing.  Listen to stories about going fishing and then search the museum for clues about fishing in the 19th century.  Afterward, kids can play a simple fishing game.
Where: Mount Vernon Hotel Museum & Garden, 421 E. 61st St. b/w 1st & York Aves.
When: 10:30 AM
Who: Ages 2-6
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free w/Museum admission
For more info: www.mvhm.org

Friday, August 19 - "Jurassic Park" Screening at the Intrepid

Join the Intrepid for its 3rd annual Summer Movie Series.  Bring your lawn chairs, picnic baskets and blankets, as well as your own food, snacks and non-alcoholic beverages and enjoy some favorite blockbuster hits!  This week's movie is Jurassic Park.
Where: Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, located at Pier 86 near 12th Ave. & W. 46th St.
When: 7:30 PM (doors open at 7:30pm, movie begins at sunset)
Who: Everyone
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free
For more info: Click here for schedule of events.

Saturday, August 20 - Summer Streets

This summer, for the 4th year in a row, Park Avenue and connecting streets from the Brooklyn Bridge to Central Park will be closed to motor vehicles for three consecutive Saturdays in August (August 6, 13, & 20).  This year's events include sand boxes and live scand sculpting, free bicycle and rollerblade rentals, a rock climbing wall, guacamole making demonstrations, a Whole Foods Family Picnic Area at 24th Street, performances from the Fringe Festival, and much, much more.  This is such a cool NYC experience - don't miss it!  Be sure to visit the official website for a complete list of activities and rest stops!
Where: Begins at Foley Sq., goes up Lafayette St. to 4th Ave., continues on Park Ave. to E. 72nd St.
When: 7:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free
For more info: Visit the official website.

Saturday, August 20 - Word for Word Kids: Night of the Butterfly

Join Beetle - along with his pals Sylvia Beetle, Pill the Caterpillar, and Scorpy the Vegetarian Scorpion - on a musical quest to find that butterfly!
Where: Bryant Park's Reading Room, located mid-park near 42nd St. (in case of rain, concert will take place in NYPL's Children's Reading Room, located inside library at 42nd St. & 5th Ave.)
When: 12:00 PM - 1:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free
For more info: www.bryantpark.org

Saturday, August 20 - Flaubert Frog & Friends in Bryant Park

Flaubert Frog and his carousel pals get you jumping and leaping with fun, games, and stories. 
Where: Bryant Park's Le Carrousel, located mid-park near 40th St.
When: 1:00 PM - 2:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free
For more info: www.bryantpark.org

Saturday, August 20 - Winnie the Pooh Birthday Bash at NYPL

Winnie-the-Pooh is turning 90 on August 21st, 2011.  Come in and help the NYPL celebrate this momentous occasion with face painting, balloon animals, and crafts.  Bring in your favorite stuffed toy and have your picture taken with Winnie.
Where: NYPL, 42nd St. & 5th Ave. (stroller entrance on 42nd St.)
When: 3:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free
For more info: www.nypl.org

Sunday, August 21 - Ice Cream Sunday, A Fundraiser for the New Amsterdam Market

join New Amsterdam Market and fellow Market supporters for a second annual Ice Cream Sunday, a summery, day-long event bringing together the most eclectic and seasonal ice creams from the northeast's ice cream makers.  These artisans are committed to showcasing regional products and flavors. Each will create up to four unique ice creams for the market that use only seasonal or responsibly sourced ingredients. With so many great flavors, we know it might be hard to choose just one! 
Where: Old Fulton Fish Market, on South Street & Peck Slip
When: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Purchase tickets in advance by clicking here.  Or just purchase them at the event!
Cost: $25 for regular admission; $35 for early admission at 12pm
For more info: Click here for more information.

Sunday, August 21 - Blues BBQ Festival

Back for the 12th year, Hudson River Park’s annual Blues BBQ Festival brings the best Blues bands from across the country together with the finest New York City BBQ restaurants for a fantastic summer day on the river. This feast for your senses brings you the sights, sounds, smells and tastes of a true southern BBQ experience!
Where: Hudson River Park's Pier 54, Cross Westside Highway at W. 14th St. or Horatio St.
When: 2:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free (food available for purchase)
For more info: www.fohrp.org

Monday, August 22 - Movie Night at Waterside Plaza: "The Incredibles"

Celebrate the city-slicker's version of a drive-in movie. Waterside Plaza partners with local cable provider RCN to present this fun, family-friendly outdoor movie series with free admission and popcorn. Limited seating provided. Lawn chairs and blankets welcome.  This week's feature is The Incredibles.
Where: Waterside Plaza, along the East River from 25th to 26th Street
When: 8:00 PM (movie starts at dusk)
Who: Everyone
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free
For more info: www.watersideplaza.com

Tuesday, August 23 through Friday, August 26 - Free Admission to US Open Qualifying Rounds

A week before the main draw US Open tournament, the qualifying rounds will be completely free to the public. Now everyone can enjoy a true US Open experience, as for the first time, the entire USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center will be up and running for the qualifying rounds. Fans can enjoy world-class tennis and entertainment, wonderful restaurants, special events and attractions, all without having to buy a ticket to the US Open.
Where: USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, 1 Flushing Meadows Park at 20th Avenue in Flushing, Queens
When: 11:00 AM (check US Open website for exact schedule of play for each day)
Who: Everyone
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free (food and drink available for purchase)
For more info: www.usopen.org

Thursday, August 25 - Waterside Plaza Happy Hour Concert: Kiddie Disco with DJ Theo

Start your evening right, at this new Waterside event featuring a variety of music and entertainment along with a cash bar. Every week features something exciting and different. Admission is free and open-to-the-public.  Arrive early for free face painting beginning at 6pm.  Then, at 6:30pm, the entertaining DJ Theo leads kids in fun and games while playing popular dance tunes all ages will enjoy.
Where: Waterside Plaza, along the East River from 25th to 26th Street
When: 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free
For more info: www.watersideplaza.com

This Week's Calendar:


August 19th through August 25th

Friday, August 19 - Target Design Kids: Imagination Playground

Imagination Playground is a breakthrough playspace designed by architect David Rockwell to encourage child-directed, unstructured free play.  Come play, dream and build with giant foam blocks, mats and fabric.
Where: Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum, 2 E. 91st St.
When: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Pre-registration required.  Register online at www.cooperhewitt.org.
Cost: Free
For more info: www.cooperhewitt.org

Friday, August 19 - Shababa Bakery at the 92nd Street Y

Squish, roll and braid your very own challah and take it home to bake.  While braiding and singing with Karina, feel that Shabbat spirit!
Where: 92nd Street Y, 1395 Lexington Ave. at 92nd St.
When: 10:15 AM - 11:00 AM
Who: Everyone
How: Pre-registration required.  Register online at www.92y.org.
Cost: $15 per child (no charge for adults)
For more info: www.92y.org

Friday, August 19 - Drum Beats & Little Feet Family Program at the Rubin Museum of Art

Translate Himalayan art into imaginative movement and sound inspired by yoga, Indian dance, and music. Children and adults explore art through their bodies, creating a balance of tranquility and excitement through breathing exercises and movement-based games while developing coordination, balance, visual literacy, and sense of rhythm.
Where: Rubin Museum of Art, 150 W. 17th St.
When: 11:00 AM
Who: Ages 3-5 with parent/caregiver
How: Just show up!
Cost: $10 per child (includes Museum admission)
For more info: www.rmanyc.org

Friday, August 19 - Sandbox Music with Central Park Brass

Kids can accompany live brass instrument music with their own percussion rhythms under the guidance of professional musicians and educators from one of New York City's premier brass quintets, Central Park Brass.
Where: Central Park's Rudin Family Playground, located near W. 96th St.
When: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: Ages 3-8
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free
For more info: www.centralparknyc.org

Friday, August 19 - RiverFlicks for Kids: "Tangled"

Join the Hudson River Park Trust for screenings of new and classic films for the whole family to enjoy!  This week features Tangled.  Complimentary popcorn; beverages available for purchase.
Where: Hudson River Park's Pier 46, near Charles & West Sts.
When: 8:30 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free
For more info: www.nycgovparks.org

Saturday, August 20 - Saturday Play: Connecting & Constructing on The High Line

Every Saturday from June to August, families are invited to get creative with hands-on art activities on the High Line. Create art projects inspired by the beautiful park views and the site-specific public art on view throughout the High Line.  The Children's Workyard Kit is also available during Saturday Play, where children can build their own work with real lumber planks, simple tools, and natural materials.
Where: The High Line's Chelsea Market Passage, located on the High Line just south of 16th St.
When: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: Ages 4 and up
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free
For more info: www.thehighline.org

Saturday, August 20 - Family Art Making Workshop at the Rubin Museum of Art

Explore intriguing paintings, sculptures, and objects in the museum's exhibitions and let them inspire your own works of art.
Where: Rubin Museum of Art, 150 W. 17th St.
When: 10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: Ages 6 and up
How: Just show up!
Cost: $10
For more info: www.rmanyc.org

Saturday, August 20 - Family Day at the Center for Architecture: Exploring Governors Island

Join the Center for Architecture Foundation and openhousenewyork to explore Governors Island, a fabulous getaway just minutes from Manhattan by ferry. You’ll visit historic forts, Victorian houses and learn about past uses and future plans for the island. Bring a picnic or buy it there and stay for the afternoon to enjoy all the island has to offer: bike rentals, mini golf, beach bar-n-grill and an afternoon Jazz Age Lawn Party (separate tickets required).
Where: Meet at Governors Island Ferry Terminal, located in the Battery Maritime Building just up the East River a bit from the Staten Island Ferry Terminal near 10 South St.
When: 10:45 AM - 1:00 PM (meet inside ferry terminal at 10:45am to catch 11am ferry to Governors Island)
Who: Ages 5-13
How: Pre-registration required.  Register online at www.cfafoundation.org.
Cost: $20 per family of 4; additional guests are $5 each
For more info: www.cfafoundation.org

Saturday, August 20 - Stories at the Hans Christian Andersen Statue in Central Park

On Saturdays all summer long for some 50 years, New York children have gathered around Hans Christian Andersen´s statue at the Conservatory Pond in Central Park to hear his tales told by a fine ensemble of storytellers.  The series concludes this week with the French tale The White Cat, as told by Robin Bady, and the Australian tale Jakamarra, as told by Joy Smith.
Where: Hans Christian Andersen Statue in Central Park, located inside the Park near 72nd St. & 5th Ave. on the West side of the Pond
When: 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Who: Ages 6 and up
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free
For more info: www.hcastorycenter.org

Saturday, August 20 - "Sesame Street: Elmo's Travel Songs & Games" Screening at the Sony Wonder Technology Lab

Elmo, Abby and Elmo's dad Louie are on a road trip, but Elmo feels like it is taking a very long, long time to get there. Elmo's dad shows them there are lots of fun games to play, stories to tell and songs they can sing to pass the time. Featuring the songs "Go Before You Go,” "Are We There Yet?” and fun facts about buckling up and different types of transportation.
Where: Sony Wonder Technology Lab, 550 Madison Ave. at 56th St.
When: 12:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Pre-registration required.  RSVP beginning the Monday of the week of the program by calling (212) 833-8100.
Cost: Free

Saturday, August 20 - "Colors a la Cart" Drop-In Program at the Morgan

Colors a la Cart invites families to explore a collection of natural dye sources, centuries-old dyeing recipes, as well as paints made from natural dyes. Children will learn the secrets of the dyers' apprentices and see for themselves which colors came from leaves, roots, and husks, and which came from bugs. They will discover if bugs should be smashed or boiled, and how artists stored color in fabric.
Where: The Morgan Library & Museum, 225 Madison Ave.
When: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Who: Ages 6 and up
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free w/Museum admission
For more info: www.themorgan.org

Saturday, August 20 - Tech in the Plaza: Secrets of the Cell Phone

Dropping your cell phone and seeing it break apart is one way to discover what's inside.  A better way might be to carefully take apart one of the Lab's while learning to identify the many parts.  Discover the secrets of the cell phone's internal assembly and what makes it the most popular and versatile mobile device.
Where: Sony Wonder Technology Lab, 550 Madison Ave. at 56th St.
When: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Who: Ages 8 and up
How: Just show up, but space is limited!
Cost: Free

Saturday, August 20 - "Ninjago" at The Scholastic Store

Calling ALL Masters of Spinjitzu! Heroes and Skeleton Army members alike can join us for cool building demonstrations and a Spinjitzu tournament. New ninjas can learn trivia with Ninjago books and win Lego prizes!
Where: The Scholastic Store, 557 Broadway b/w Prince & Spring Sts.  Stroller entrance at 130 Mercer St.
When: 3:00 PM
Who: Ages 5-9
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free

Sunday, August 21 - Mommy/Daddy & Me Photography Class in Central Park

Join New York City Photo Safari for a photo class in Central Park with your kids. Everyone will learn how to take better pictures of the environment and each other! In addition to the class you will also receive one free high quality 8x10 print of YOUR best workshop photograph. You must have a digital camera (DSLR OR point & shoot); parent and child may share a camera however one camera per person is best.
Where: Meet at Central Park's Belvedere Castle, located mid-park at 79th St.
When: 1:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Who: Ages 8-13
How: Pre-registration required.  Call (718) 268-9634 or email [email protected] to reserve your spot.
Cost: $150 (1 parent + 1 child). Use coupon code PARKKIDS to save $25.
For more info: www.nycgovparks.org

Sunday, August 21 - Just Drop In! Family Program at the Guggenheim Museum

Explore the Guggenheim's exhibition highlights through creative, interactive projects led by museum educators.
Where: Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, 1071 Fifth Ave. at 89th St.
When: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Who: Ages 3-10
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free w/Museum admission
For more info: www.guggenheim.org or (212) 423-3587

Monday, August 22 through Friday, August 26 - Target Design Kids: Imagination Playground

Imagination Playground is a breakthrough playspace designed by architect David Rockwell to encourage child-directed, unstructured free play.  Come play, dream and build with giant foam blocks, mats and fabric.
Where: Cooper-Hewitt, National Design Museum, 2 E. 91st St.
When: 10:00 AM - 12:00 PM (program will take place on weekdays through September 2nd)
Who: Everyone
How: Pre-registration required.  Register online at www.cooperhewitt.org.
Cost: Free
For more info: www.cooperhewitt.org

Monday, August 22 - Music Together Demo Class

Join Eastside Westside Music Together for a free demonstration class to experience the joy of family music. Bring your baby, toddler, or preschooler to these mixed age classes where children and adults make music together!
Where: The Art Farm, 419 E. 91st St.
When: 3:30 PM
Who: Ages 0-4
How: Pre-registration required.  Call (212) 496-1242 to reserve your spot.
Cost: Free

Tuesday, August 23 - Music Together Demo Class

Join Eastside Westside Music Together for a free demonstration class to experience the joy of family music. Bring your baby, toddler, or preschooler to these mixed age classes where children and adults make music together!
Where: Manhattan Church of Christ, 48 E. 80th St.
When: 1:00 PM
Who: Ages 0-4
How: Pre-registration required.  Call (212) 496-1242 to reserve your spot.
Cost: Free

Tuesday, August 23 - American Girl Dinner & Harbor Cruise

Enjoy an enchanting night with your girl in New York!  Your experience includes a delicious meal at the American Girl Cafe, plus a private cruise aboard the NY Waterway Ferry, where you’ll see the city’s sparkling skyline and the majestic Statue of Liberty.
Where: American Girl Place, 609 5th Ave. at 49th St.
When: 4:00 PM (cruise at 4pm, dinner at 7:30pm)
Who: Ages 8 and up
How: Pre-registration required.  Call (877) 247-5223 to reserve your spot.
Cost: $75 per person
For more info: www.americangirl.com

Tuesday, August 23 - Taste Buds Story Time & Kitchen Playdate

Join Taste Buds for a Story Time & Kitchen Play Dates every Tuesday afternoon this summer.  During a free story time from 4pm-4:30pm, kids will read deliciously fun stories, act out favorite chef movies and learn about cook kitchen gadgets.  Then, from 4:30pm-5:30pm, kids can stay for a $20 kitchen "playdate," during which they'll whip up a culinary masterpiece.  Each child will get to choose from 3 unique recipes each week. 
Where: Taste Buds, 109 W. 27th St. b/w 6th & 7th Aves.
When: 4:00 PM - 5:30 PM (free story time from 4pm-4:30pm; $20 kitchen playdate from 4:30pm-5:30pm)
Who: Ages 2-8
How: Just show up!
Cost: Story Time is free.  Optional kitchen playdate is $20.
For more info: www.tastebudscook.com

Wednesday, August 24 through Friday, August 26 - Wee-Arts at the Children's Museum of the Arts

The Children's Museum of the Arts' Wee-Arts program offers an intimate and stimulating environment for children ages 10 months to 3 1/2 years to explore and create art.  This popular program develops a young child's familiarity with art-making materials, including playdough, paints, glue and a variety of drawing tools.  Wee-Arts encourages the process of experimentation, exploration and creative thinking. Music and story time with singing and drumming concludes each session.
Where: Children's Museum of the Arts, 182 Lafayette Street between Broome and Grand
When: 10:45 AM - 12:00 PM (program also will take place on 12/29, 12/30 & 12/31)
Who: Ages 10 months to 3 1/2 years
How: Just show up!
Cost: $22 per family (group of 3)
For more info: www.cmany.org or (212) 274-0986

Wednesday, August 24 - American Girl at "Mary Poppins" on Broadway

Get ready for an unforgettable experience! Take your seats in the beautiful New Amsterdam Theater for a performance of Mary Poppins, the acclaimed musical filled with breathtaking songs and dance numbers the whole family will love. After the show, staff will escort you to the American Girl Cafe, where you and your girl will enjoy a delicious meal together.
Where: Meet at New Amsterdam Theater (meeting spot confirmed upon registration)
When: 2:00 PM (show starts at 2pm; dinner starts at 7:30pm)
Who: Ages 8 and up
How: Pre-registration required.  Call (877) 247-5223 to reserve your spot.
Cost: $145 per person
For more info: www.americangirl.com

Wednesday, August 24 - Little Maestros Sample Class

Little Maestros takes children on a fantastic musical journey each week.  You and your child will love the musical story time, songs of all kinds, imaginative play, language development activities, puppet shows and “bubble music”.
Where: Kidville, 163 E. 84th St.
When: 3:00 PM
Who: Ages 0-4
How: Pre-registration suggested.  Register online at www.bigcitymoms.com.
Cost: $20
For more info: www.bigcitymoms.com

Wednesday, August 24 - Wild Wednesdays on the High Line

Join the High Line us for hands-on, nature-based fun on the High Line all summer long. Touch a wriggly worm, paint a butterfly wing, catch the wind, or grab a magnifying glass and go on a bug hunt with High Line gardeners and educators.  The Children's Workyard Kit is also available during Wild Wednesdays, where children can build their own natural habitat with real lumber planks, simple tools, and natural materials.
Where: Chelsea Market Passage on the High Line at W. 16th St. & 10th Ave. 
When: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Who: Ages 4 and up
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free
For more info: www.thehighline.org

Wednesday, August 24 - Kanani's Hawaiian Lei Crafts at American Girl Place

Celebrate the aloha spirit with Kanani, the newest Girl of the Year!  At this free craft event, your girl can make a cute doll-sized lei with fabric flowers.
Where: American Girl Place, 609 5th Ave. at 49th St.
When: 4:30 PM - 7:00 PM
Who: Ages 8 and up
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free
For more info: www.americangirl.com

Thursday, August 25 - Yak Packers Early Childhood Art Program at the Rubin Museum of Art

In this program especially for toddlers, kids will get to build and play with blocks, visit an exhibition in the Rubin Museum's galleries, create an artwork inspired by the pieces they've looked at, and listen to a story read aloud.
Where: Rubin Museum of Art, 150 W. 17th St.
When: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Who: Ages 2-4 with parent/caregiver
How: Just show up!
Cost: $10 per child
For more info: www.rmanyc.org

Thursday, August 25 - Little Maestros Sample Class

Little Maestros takes children on a fantastic musical journey each week.  You and your child will love the musical story time, songs of all kinds, imaginative play, language development activities, puppet shows and “bubble music”.
Where: 344 E. 69th St.
When: 1:00 PM
Who: Ages 0-4
How: Pre-registration required.  Register online at www.bigcitymoms.com.
Cost: $20
For more info: www.bigcitymoms.com

Thursday, August 25 - Cake Pops Class at Taste Buds

Want to learn how to make Bakerellas famous Cake Pops?  In this class, kids will make the perfect Chocolate and Red Velvet Cakes and Cream Cheese Frosting to use as the base for cake pops and then take it to the next level to turn the pops into beautiful works of art with candy and chocolate melts! Every young chef will take home a box of cake pops that they have baked, designed, and decorated to give as gifts or enjoy with friends and family.
Where: Taste Buds, 109 W. 27th St., 10th Fl.
When: 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Who: Ages 7-13 (drop-off only)
How: Pre-registration required.  Register online at www.tastebudscook.com
Cost: $80
For more info: www.tastebudscook.com

Plan Ahead:


August 26th through August 30th

Friday, August 26 - "Summer BBQ" Kids Cooking Class at Whole Foods

Do you really need a backyard if you want to have a barbecue? Not if you’re a city kid! With these delicious, fun-to-make recipes, we’ll enjoy the ultimate summer cookout right here in the Culinary Center. Sunscreen optional.  On the Menu: Homemade Chips; Fresh Corn and Black Bean Salsa; Blueberry-Raspberry Crumble. (Barbecued chicken will be served with lunch at the end of class.)
Where: Whole Foods Market Bowery Culinary Center, 95 E. Houston St. at Bowery
When: 11:00 AM (Class for ages 5-8 will take place from 11am-12pm; class for ages 9-13 will take place from 1pm-2:30pm)
Who: Class for ages 5-8 will take place from 11am-12pm.  Class for ages 9-13 will take place from 1pm-2:30pm.  Both classes are drop-off only.
How: Pre-registration required.  Register online by clicking here.
Cost: $30

Saturday, August 27 - Secrets of Central Park Scavenger Hunt

Kids and adults work together to explore the park below 72nd Street. To score points, you’ll have to find Stuart Little, stick your tongue out at a rude animal, learn the motto of a hidden eagle, decipher a secret code by the pond seen in Home Alone 2, spot Cupid at the carousel, unscramble a message in the sky, and find a witch turned to stone.
Where: Meet at Central Park's Arsenal, located inside the park near 5th Ave. & 64th St.
When: 10:30 AM
Who: Ages 7 and up
How: Pre-registration required.  Register online at www.watsonadventures.com.
Cost: $22 for adults, $18 for kids ages 7-17

Saturday, August 27 - "Dora the Explorer" & "Go, Diego, Go!" Double Feature at the Sony Wonder Technology Lab

In Dora The Explorer: Pablo’s Flute, when young Pablo loses his magic flute, a terrible drought hits his family’s farm. Dora and Boots find Pablo’s flute, and hurry off to return it to him on his mountain. In Go, Diego, Go!: Rainforest Race, animals come from all over to compete in the rainforest race including a puma team, a howler monkey team, and a spectacle bear team. A cute little armadillo also comes along and wants to race, but she doesn’t have a team. Diego decides to help and joins the armadillo’s team.
Where: Sony Wonder Technology Lab, 550 Madison Ave. at 56th St.
When: 12:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Pre-registration required.  Call (212) 833-8100 beginning on Monday of the week of the program to reserve your spot.
Cost: Free
For more info: www.sonywondertechlab.com or (212) 833-8100

Saturday, August 27 - Sci-Tech Workshop: Bot Building

Using motors, screws and recycled materials, along with some technical guidance, kids will learn how to assemble and power up their own personalized robot to take home.

Where: Sony Wonder Technology Lab, 550 Madison Ave. at 56th St.
When: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM
Who: Ages 8 and up
How: Pre-registration required.  Call (212) 833-8100 beginning the Monday of the week of the program to reserve your spot.
Cost: $10 per participant

Saturday, August 27 - "Let's Make Cupcakes" at Taste Buds

Make, bake and decorate cupcakes with Taste Buds!  Bake cupcakes from scratch to decorate with delicious frosting and learn fun and easy decorating techniques!
Where: Taste Buds, 109 W. 27th St.
When: 2:00 PM - 3:00 PM
Who: Ages 2-6 with parent/caregiver
How: Pre-registration required.  Register online at www.tastebudscook.com
Cost: $40 per parent/child pair; $20 for each additional participant
For more info: www.tastebudscook.com

Saturday, August 27 - "Planning Urban Spaces & Places" Family Program at the City of New York

New York City is full of people with places to go. Cars, buses and bicycles fill our streets, pedestrians pound the pavement on sidewalks, and subways rumble underground. How can all these different forms of transportation share the same space? This workshop will introduce participants to some of the ways that urban planners organize transportation in the city. The program includes a walking tour in the Museum's neighborhood.
Where: Museum of the City of New York, 1220 5th Ave.
When: 2:00 PM
Who: Ages 8-12
How: Pre-registration suggested.  Call (917) 492-3395 or email [email protected] to reserve your spot.
Cost: Free w/Museum admission
For more info: www.mcny.org

Monday, August 29 - Cecile & Marie-Grace Charity Ball at American Girl Place

You and your girl can be among the first to celebrate the newest historical characters—Cécile Rey and Marie-Grace Gardner! Your girl is invited to wear her fanciest dress to this benefit party inspired by the costume balls of 1850s New Orleans. Enjoy a delicious meal, learn ballroom dance steps, make fun crafts, and more! Plus, a portion of the proceeds from this event helps support after-school programming at the Ellis Marsalis Center for Music in New Orleans.
Where: American Girl Place, 609 5th Ave. at 49th St.
When: 5:30 PM (program will repeat at 7:30pm)
Who: Ages 8 and up
How: Pre-registration required.  Call (877) 247-5223 to reserve your spot.
Cost: $65 per person
For more info: www.americangirl.com

Tuesday, August 30 - Cecile & Marie-Grace's Debut at American Girl Place

Learn about American Girl’s newest historical characters, Cécile Rey and Marie-Grace Gardner! They’re newfound friends growing up together in 1850s New Orleans. Join us for fun crafts and free giveaways inspired by their world.
Where: American Girl Place, 609 5th Ave. at 49th St.
When: 9:30 AM - 3:30 PM (drop-in program)
Who: Ages 8 and up
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free
For more info: www.americangirl.com

Library & Bookstore Story Times


A Listing of Story Times and Other Events at Libraries, Cafes & Bookstores Around Town

Unless otherwise noted, all events are free and no pre-registration is required.

BOOKSTORE & CAFE STORY TIMES:

Barnes & Noble Upper East Side, 150 E. 86th St. at Lexington Ave. (212) 369-2180
Story Time on Sundays at 11am and Wednesdays at 10am for all ages

Barnes & Noble Union Square, 33 E. 17th St. (212) 253-0810
Story Time on Sundays at 2:30pm for all ages

Books of Wonder, 18 W. 18th St. (212) 989-3270
Story Time on Sundays at 12pm for ages 0-7

Borders, 10 Columbus Circle (212) 823-9775
Story Time on ...


Cooking Light: The Ultimate Kid-Approved Cookbook


With nearly 1 in 3 children between the ages of 2 and 19 diagnosed as overweight or obese, parents need tools to help their children develop lifelong, healthy eating habits.  Cooking Light – long known for the philosophy that kids don’t need special “kid” foods verses “parent” foods – hopes to be part of the solution and has introduced its first kid-focused cookbook, Cooking Light, The Ultimate Kid-Approved Cookbook, offering delicious meals kids will eat and nutritious meals moms will love. The cookbook is now available from select retailers including Amazon ...


Check Out the Macaroni Kid Business Directory!


As you know, I've recently added an exciting new feature to the site - the Macaroni Kid Business Directory!  This fantastic resource features the very best kid-friendly products, services, stores, restaurants and other businesses catering to New York City families.  Whether you're looking for a yoga, piano, sign language or art appreciation class for your toddler, an opportunity to brush up on your CPR skills, a professional photographer, a reliable babysitting service, a fun-filled day camp, the perfect birthday party venue or even a gorgeous mural for your child's room, you'll soon be able to find everything you need via the Macaroni Kid Business Directory.  Please support the wonderful businesses participating in the Directory, and if you or someone you know might be interested in getting listed in the directory, please email me at monicas [at] macaronikid [dot] com.  Thanks!

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