Drawing from her professional work with families, as well as her own personal experiences raising her two sons, one of whom is acclaimed actor Matt Damon, Dr. Carlsson-Paige’s groundbreaking book, Taking Back Childhood: A Proven Road Map for Raising Confident, Creative, Compassionate Kids, helps parents better understand and navigate the social currents shaping the lives of children today.
She has received many awards for her leadership and advocacy in early childhood and peace education and is an advocate for education policies and practices that promote social justice and the well being of all children.
Join us:
When parents, caregivers and teachers observe their children or join them in child-led play, they are given a unique opportunity to see the world through the eyes of a child. Allowing children to use their creativity to engage and interact with the world around them is vital to development. Find out how play prepares a child for school and life. Learn how play develops confidence and resilency in children. Explore ideas for activities that help children for future academic success.
]]>Helping our kids learn to behave is one of our biggest challenges as parents. One of our primary roles with our children is to be a teacher. Learn the tricks and the science of teaching children to manage their own behavior. Understand how to set limits, be consistent and establish motivators and consequences. Move from working against your child to working with your child is a key to everyone’s happiness.
]]>It’s not just what you say, but how you say it that gets results. Learn more effective communication skills that will stip undesirable behavior and encourage cooperation. Get tips to avoid power struggles.
Instructor: Michelle Johnston
]]>Discuss the joys and challenges of raising boys. This class is all about boys; how they think, what drives their behavior and how to create environments for success at home and school. Discuss development, the effects of media, school success, communication, male role models and behavior management.
Instructor: Susan Brown
]]>Now Through Sunday May 12, 2013
Architecture in Virginia: The Old Dominion – Examine photographs and descriptions of 24 significant examples of Virginia architecture built primarily between 1780 and 1861. The collection is on loan from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Included with exhibit admission.
Fun at the Fair – Spring Fair May 2-12, 2013 at the Showplace. Open 5pm weekdays. 12pm weekends. Visit website for information. You can also find them on Facebook.
Now Through Monday, June 3
They Call it Stormy Weather: How Artists See the Weather and the Seasons. Explore artists’ depictions of weather from thunderstorms on powerful, wild seas to sunny skies above spring fields. The photographic reproductions are on loan from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Included with exhibit admission.
Now Through the End of the Year
Week of May 6
Mother’s Day Crafting Station at Pottery Barn Kids. Kids make Mother’s Day Badge at the crafting station. It’s free.
Fun at the Fair – Spring Fair May 2-12, 2013 at the Showplace. Open 5pm weekdays. 12pm weekends. Visit website for information. You can also find them on Facebook.
Monday, May 6
Flying Squirrels Baseball – 6:35pm at The Diamond.
Tuesday, May 7
Club Mom at Chesterfield Town Center. 9am-11am with Jesse the Juggler.
Flying Squirrels Baseball – 6:35 pm. Teacher Appreciation Night & Canvas Tote Bag Giveaway presented by Verizon Wireless & Lite 98. The FIRST 1,500 people 15 & over receive a Canvas Tote Bag! Game time 6:35pm, gates open at 5:35pm.
Wednesday, May 8
Mommy & Me at Willow Lawn. Fun, games, and our own Richmondmom.com table – stop by and say hello to Katie!
Flying Squirrels Baseball – 6:35 pm. Nurse’s Appreciation Night presented by Richmond Magazine & XL 102. Game time 6:35pm, gates open 5:35pm.
COTU Food Truck Court – Have your favorite COTU brew along with a choice of 5-8 different food truck vendors all while enjoying the new outdoor beer garden at the brewery! Every Wednesday, COTU invites the community to enjoy some great local food, beer, and friends.
RVA Food Trucks are returning to Chesterfield Towne every Wednesday night starting May 1 to Sept. 22. They will be set up outside in the parking lot at the mall entrance on Koger Center Boulevard (Outer Sears Parking Lot). Expect trucks like Soul Ice, Boka, Mr. Softy, Habanero, Almadina, Paris Creperie, The Dog Wagon, Station 2, P&T Kitchen, Grate Pizza, Chupacabra, Super Fresh, Slideways Mobile Bistro, Croaker Spot, King of Pops, Thai Cabin, Flynn’s Foods, and The Meatball Company. Tables and chairs will be set out. Each event will be based on weather permitting. Check the mall’s Facebook every Wednesday at 3 p.m. to confirm the night’s event and the RVA Foodies will post and tweet the event as well. 6 p.m. to 9 p.m.
Wine Tasting to benefit B.A.R.K. Patina Restaurant & Bar will be hosting a Wine Tasting on Wednesday May 8, 2013 to benefit BARK. from 5PM – 730PM.
Innsbrook After Hours, central Virginia’s premier concert series for the past 28 years, is bringing Richmond area residents together again for a summer of great National concerts and the best of Richmond’s local scene, at the Snagajob pavilion in Glen Allen, Va.
Magnolia Grange Tea. Magnolia Grange will host another fine “Mother’s Day Tea”. The guest speaker will Speaker: Kathy Chain, of Herbs of Happy Hill in Chester; $25, Pre-paid Reservations Required: please call (804)796-1479. Guests wiull make tussie-mussies to take home. Tamara Evans will serve Eastern Shore tea, finger sandwiches and desserts. The Magnolia Grange gift shop will be having its “May Gifts from the Garden” sale. Tours of the house will be available.
Thursday, May 9
Mom’s Nite Out – Pampering Moms! On May 9th from 6:00 – 8:00 p.m., Virginia Center Commons will provide a free evening of relaxation and fun in honor of national Mom’s Nite Out™. The presenting sponsor of Mom’s Nite Out celebration this year is Rethink Varicose Veins. At Virginia Center Commons, attendees will have the opportunity to participate in an exciting evening filled with refreshments, entertainment, fashion and beauty services, all focused on rewarding Moms.The first 50 women in attendance will receive a Mom’s Nite Out Swag Bag, filled with coupons, samples and other goodies provided by mall retailers.
Next to Normal at Virginia Rep.
Richmond Waldorf School Observation Day. 8:30am-10am at 1000 Westover Hills Boulevard Richmond, VA 23225. Come see Waldorf education in action while visiting various classrooms promptly at 8:30 AM. Parents will also have the opportunity to watch an informational DVD and time for conversations and questions. This event is for parents to attend only.
123 Magic (Parents of Children 2-5 yrs). 6pm-8pm. Delivered by Commonwealth Parenting.
Friday, May 10
The American Diabetes Association’s 3rd Annual Garden Party will bring the community together for a fabulous night of fun, supporting our mission to find the cure for diabetes and to improve the lives of all people with this disease. This spectacular event will take place in the beautiful surroundings of the Willow Oaks Country Club. The evening will feature gourmet hors d’oeuvres, open bars, live and silent auctions, fun entertainment with dancing, and a one-of-a-kind wine giveaway.
Next to Normal at Virginia Rep.
Girls in Medicine Camp In. 6pm to 9am at the Science Museum of Virginia. Middle School girls team up with women in the medical field to focus the variety of genetics opportunities while they explore careers in medicine. Sponsored by HCA Virginia Health System.
Fancy Hat Party. The 16th annual Fancy Hat Party luncheon, benefitting the Hospital Hospitality House will be held at the Thalhimer Pavilion at The Science Museum of Virginia on May 10th from 11:30 am to 1:30 pm. Debbie Phelps, inspirational speaker, educator and mother of Olympic Gold Medalist Michael Phelps will be the speaker and a fashion Show, hat contest and raffle will make this another exciting event to remember. Tickets are $100 and are available athhhrichmond.org.
Spirited Art – Celebrate Mother’s Day all weekend!
Saturday, May 11
On May 11 & 12, 2013, the Richmond Symphony will perform two classical pieces: Beethoven’s 5th & The Rite of Spring.While they last, you can save 50% on tickets to Richmond Symphony’s Beethoven’s 5th & The Rite of Spring, no coupon or code required. What a great Mother’s Day gift.
34th Annual Strawberry Street Festival in the Fan this Saturday, May 11. Noon-4:30pm. Snow cones, cotton candy, a fish fry and more festival fare. Plus they’ll have plenty of music, rides and games. Food from Kitchen 64, Sweetly Smitten and Relay Foods and more.
Cary Carnival will have bounce houses, face-painting, kids’ activities, appearances from Kickaroo, Cinderella and others. Plus snow cones, cotton candy, a fish fry and more festival fare. Games, food, silent auction, art market, vendors. Fun for all ages. The Cary Carnival will be held from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at John B. Cary Elementary School which is located at 3021 Maplewood Avenue.
Next to Normal at Virginia Rep.
Race for the Cure - The Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure® Series, the largest series of 5K runs/fitness walks in the world, raises funds and awareness for the fight against breast cancer, celebrates breast cancer survivorship and honors those who have lost their battle with the disease. 2013 marks the 16th Anniversary for Central Virginia’s Race for the Cure®! The Central Virginia Race was started to honor Jennifer Norvell Saunders’ mother, Joanne Norvell and since 1998 has raised over $5 million to fight breast cancer!
Spirited Art – Celebrate Mother’s Day all weekend!
Virginia Hops & Barley Festival – Head to 288 & Robius Road for the third annual Virginia Hops & Barley Festival where you can sample local craft brews from Hardywood, Mad Fox Brewing, Apocalypse Ale Works and many more. General admission is $15 in advance, $20 at the gate and includes unlimited tastings from over 15 Virginia breweries.
The Cap2Cap, or Capital to Capital, bike ride takes place on Saturday, May 11, 2013. It offers several rides to choose from: a “quarter century” 25-miler, a “half-century” 50-miler and a “full century” 100-mile ride.
From Foundry to Fire. American Civil War Center at Tredegar. Learn about the importance of the cannon manufacturing capabilities of Tredegar Ironworks, as well as, the role field artillery played in the Civil War. A costumed artillery crew will explain the process of making and testing the cannon and then demonstrate its use on the battlefield. Buy your tickets
5k Foam Fest with a mud run combined with lots of foam, huge inflated obstacles, army crawls, cargo-net climbs, and more.
Mother’s Day Doll Tea Party at 3pm and 4pm. Kids are invited to wear their finest and bring a doll or teddy beas to enjoy making a special felt flower bouquet for Mom or Grandma. Space is limited. Call to reserve a spot. Cost is $10 ages 4 and older.
Sweetheart Frame at Local Lowes Stores. 10am – Your child will love building this Planter and decorating it with their favorite creatures and characters from DreamWorks Animation’s THE CROODS! Registration required.
Robots + Us at the Science Museum of Virginia. Explore differences between humans and robots by examining how lifelike machines imitate moving, sensing, thinking and being. Investigate robotics, computer science and biomedical engineering through enjoyable interactive exhibits and videos. Included with exhibit admission. Free for members – through September 29.
Mother and Daughters Tea at Patrick Henry Scotchtown. 10- 12noon. Celebrate Mother’s Day with your daughter(s). Enjoy special crafts,18th century games and activities and a tea party on the lawn. Come dress your best ladies and join us. May 11, 2013 10:00am through 12:00pm (noon). Purchase tickets. Beaverdam, VA.
Walkerton Tavern has a free spring festival on May 11. From 1:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m., you can play games, make crafts, get your face painted, tour the tavern, and more. Walkerton Tavern is located at 2892 Mountain Rd, Glen Allen. 804-261-6898.
Join CHS for our first 5K event! This fundraising event promises fun and activities for the whole family. You can run, walk, or jog, and strollers are welcome. Celebrate your family pride by coordinating colors or costumes for the event. Prizes will be given in fun categories, like Most Creative Costume and Best Decorated Stroller, in addition to top finishers. The 5K begins at 9 AM. A Kid’s Fun Run for ages 7 and under will also be held at 10 AM.
Celebrate with a Book Author Book Fair. Let’s celebrate Mother’s Day with a book! Vie La Publishing House, LLC is pleased to announce its second Celebrate with a Book event. More than twenty authors from across Virginia and beyond will converge on Regency Square Mall on May 11, 2013 from 10:00 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. to sign and read from their works. The book fair will be located on the first floor, in center court, located across from Macy’s Department Store.
Birth Mother’s Day is a day to honor women who have made an adoption plan for their child. Please join us for a brunch, fellowship, day of pampering, and gifts to take home. Bethany Christian Services, 1510 Willow Lawn Drive, Richmond. Suite 203.
ParkFest Blues Festival. The River City Blues Society presents a one-day Blues Festival that includes 5 bands, featuring headliner, The Nighthawks, plus Albert Castiglia, Mikey Jr., Andrew Alli & Last Night’s Blues Band, and The Mike Lucci Band. Music, Food, Vendors, Beer & Wine. Live Exhibit from the Library of VA. A portion of net proceeds to benefit Special Olympics, Area 6. Family Friendly event. Tickets just $30; Kids 12 and under are free. After-party at Steele Horse Grill in Chester.
Amelia Day just around the corner! – Saturday, May 11, 2013 Join the community for a grand day of celebrating 278 years! Festival is located on the Historic Courthouse Square. Beginning at 9:30 am and ending at 5:00 pm – there is fun for the entire family. Music, food, car show, vendors, clowns, church groups, organization booths and SO much more!
Food Drive Saturday May 11th 9am-3pm at Powhatan Walmart.
West Side Story – Old-school Broadway musical at Broadway in Richmond’s smash production of West Side story at the Landmark. Three shows only.
Sunday, May 12
MOTHER’S DAY STRAWBERRY SHORTCAKE & WINE PAIRING – Bring Mom out for a very special pairing of Strawberry Shortcake and Wine! Enjoy the afternoon on our shaded patio or overlook the vineyards while sitting on the balcony.
On May 11 & 12, 2013, the Richmond Symphony will perform two classical pieces: Beethoven’s 5th & The Rite of Spring.While they last, you can save 50% on tickets to Richmond Symphony’s Beethoven’s 5th & The Rite of Spring, no coupon or code required. What a great Mother’s Day gift!
Gallery Tour: Paths to Freedom – 1:00pm – Join Museum Educator Sean Kane for a guided tour of our signature exhibit In the Cause of Liberty. This program will highlight artifacts and displays relevant to the African-American experience before, during and after the Civil War. Buy your tickets.
Next to Normal at Virginia Rep.
Village Green at Westchester Commons for a free Spring Concert Series.Route 64 performing – This Sunday’s Mother’s Day concert features extras, too. Ladies can pick up a free gift at the Westchester Commons table, plus there’ll be a free photobooth on site, giving you a chance to take fun pics with family & friends. Westchester Commons is located at Rt. 288 & Midlothian Tpk in Midlothian.
Richmond Concert Band will perform a free Mother’s Day concert 6-8pm on the front lawn at Agecroft Hall. Pack a picnic & grab a blanket or lawn chair and head out for an evening of music. Get there early to take advantage of another Mother’s Day freebie at Agecroft Hall. From 12:30 p.m.-5:00 p.m. on May 12, Agecroft Hall is opening its gardens to the public free of charge. Though it’s free to explore, tickets are required; stop by the front desk to pick up yours when you arrive. Agecroft Hall is located at 4305 Sulgrave Road, Richmond.
Lewis Ginter Concert and Brunch/Lunch. Included with Garden admission. Treat Mom to a special day! Glennroy Bailey & Company will be back again this year to fill the air with the sounds of smooth jazz.
Music in the Park at Forest Hill Park - The popular free concert series Music in the Park kicks off this Sunday with a Mother’s Day Square Dancing blow-out with the Beer Ticks, Grant Hunnicut and special guests Gene & Gayla. Bring a picnic dinner, a blanket or chairs and be ready for a great time. Everybody from the Forest Hill neighborhood will be there. Free. 6 p.m. to 8 p.m.
Robots + Us at the Science Museum of Virginia. Explore differences between humans and robots by examining how lifelike machines imitate moving, sensing, thinking and being. Investigate robotics, computer science and biomedical engineering through enjoyable interactive exhibits and videos. Included with exhibit admission. Free for members. Through September 29.
Spirited Art – Come out and create your own “Family Tree” with us for Mother’s Day. Our instructors will lead you step by step as you create your own Mother’s Day masterpiece. Have your kids help create your “Family Tree” and add the names for each person on the branches.
2013 House Tour – 19th Annual Museum District Mother’s Day House & Garden Tour. 1pm-6pm. Join honorary chair Maya Smart and her family and celebrate Mother’s Day in style, touring some of the Museum District’s loveliest homes and gardens.
Road to No Reaction “Allergy Musician” – Performances at Noon and 2pm. Children’s Museum of Richmond – Central Location. Kyle Dine, the world’s first “Allergy Musician”, is performing a free family concert at the Children’s Museum of Richmond (CMoR)– Central Location, May 12 at noon and 2pm. The performance will highlight anaphylaxis and food allergy awareness through upbeat songs and positive lyrics.
Richmond Kickers Soccer Game. 7pm at City Stadium.
]]>Don’t miss our mega-listing of Richmond Summer Camp 2013 options for kids of all ages.
ALWAYS check dates, times and locations of events as they may change after posting here.
Don’t forget to check your Richmondmom.com Savvy Saver card for great savings at many local events and activities for kids and adults. Don’t have a card? No worries – download a copy here!
Through March 1
Rocky Mountain Express (film in IMAX®DOME) Through-Friday March 1 – Join in the epic adventure of building Canada’s first transcontinental railway as you are propelled on a steam train journey through the Canadian Rockies. $9 general admission, $5 for members.
Through March 10
No Two Alike: Snow Crystal Microphotography. Explore the work of physicist Kenneth G. Libbrecht which captures intricate details of snow crystals. Peruse snow facts find out the answer to the question “Is it true that no two snowflakes alike?” Included with exhibit admission.
Through April 30
Born to be Wild at IMAX Dome. Born to be Wild is an inspiring story of love, dedication and the remarkable bond between humans and animals. This film documents orphaned orangutans and elephants and the extraordinary people who rescue and raise them — saving endangered species one life at a time.$9 general admission, $5 for members. Showing through April 30.
Through May 12, 2013
Raise the Roof at the Science Museum of Virginia. If walls could talk, what would they say? Explore buildings and structures in a new light as you discover the stories behind the structures through a variety of interactive experiences. Included with exhibit admission.
Through Monday June 3
They Call it Stormy Weather: How Artists See the Weather and the Seasons. Explore artists’ depictions of weather from thunderstorms on powerful, wild seas to sunny skies above spring fields. The photographic reproductions are on loan from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts. Included with exhibit admission.
February 19-24, 2013
Mary Poppins at the Landmark Theatre.
Monday, February 18
President’s Day – many area schools are closed!
Monkey Joe’s birthday party with $5 admission all day and free pizza for the first 100 kids!
Tuesday, February 19
Freedom and Independence vs Rules and Boundaries (Parents of teens). From 6:30pm-8:30pm. Delivered by Commonwealth Parenting.
Wednesday, February 20
http://www.ringling.com
Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Built to Amaze tour at the Richmond Coliseum. February 20-24.
Virginia Wine Expo. Meet the winemakers, mingle with friends and taste and buy over 400 bottles of Virginia wine inside the Greater Richmond Convention Center. Don’t miss the hottest winter wine event in Virginia! February 19-24.
Thursday, February 21
Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Built to Amaze tour at the Richmond Coliseum. February 20-24.
Virginia Wine Expo. Meet the winemakers, mingle with friends and taste and buy over 400 bottles of Virginia wine inside the Greater Richmond Convention Center. Don’t miss the hottest winter wine event in Virginia! February 19-24.
Beyond Time Out (Parents of children 2-9 years). 6:30pm-8:30pm. Delivered by Commonwealth Parenting.
Friday, February 22
Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Built to Amaze tour at the Richmond Coliseum. February 20-24.
The 5th Annual READ: Art Show and Sale at the New Community School. 7pm – 10pm. Features over 100 regional and local artists, building community and literacy through art. Funds raised from the event support our specialized dyslexia remediation program & provide need-based scholarships.
Classic Tales with Mother Goose at Meadowdale Library. Join Mother Goose as she brings stories to life with audience participation and plush animal friends. This program is recommended for children aged 2-6 and their parents.
Virginia Wine Expo. Meet the winemakers, mingle with friends and taste and buy over 400 bottles of Virginia wine inside the Greater Richmond Convention Center. Don’t miss the hottest winter wine event in Virginia! February 19-24.
2013 Orchid Show at Strange’s Garden Center & Florist. Enjoy over 600 orchids displayed in artfully designed exhibits with an Hawaiian theme. Vendors will be on hand offering orchid plants, art & supplies, and free lectures will be available throughout Saturday and Sunday. There will also be an art competition featuring original work from local artisans. Free admission.
37th Concert Ballet Repertory Gala. The event will be held at The Woman’s Club Auditorium, 211 East Franklin Street. You will enjoy wonderful dancing, live music, and scrumptious desserts! February 22 and 24th, 2013.
Book Club. Sweet Spot in Short Pump. The book selection for Sweet Spot’s February Book Club Meeting is The Van Gogh Cafe by Cynthia Rylant. Get your appetite ready for this adventure where anything can happen at The Van Gogh Cafe! Recommended for readers ages 8 and up at 6 pm.
Saturday, February 23
Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Built to Amaze tour at the Richmond Coliseum. February 20-24.
Big Hearts for Little Hands at South Hopewell Church of God in Hopewell. This is a fundraiser for the Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU! There will be crafts and vendors such as Daisey Bows, Treasure Cakes, Scentsy, Tastefully Simple, etc. We want to raise as much money as possible for this amazing cause! Face painting for the kids. 2300 Bluefield Street, Hopewell, VA.
New Legacy Jazz Band. Performances at 11 am and 1 pm at the Children’s Museum – Central. Enjoy a special performances celebrating African American culture and history. Sit back and relax while listening from the past to the present of jazz music with the New Legacy Jazz Band. Event is free with museum admission.
Emily Hubbel Fundraiser to Beat Childhood Cancer.
Alhadji Pappa Susso and Bala Kouyate Performance. Children’s Museum – Chesterfield. Enjoy a special performances celebrating African American culture and history. Listen to authentic African instrumentals with performances by Alhadji Pappa Susso and Bala Kouyate. Event is free with museum admission.
Kids Expo & Babies Too returns to Richmond! Stop by and say hello to us at Richmondmom.com booth!
2013 Orchid Show at Strange’s Garden Center & Florist. Enjoy over 600 orchids displayed in artfully designed exhibits with an Hawaiian theme. Vendors will be on hand offering orchid plants, art & supplies, and free lectures will be available throughout Saturday and Sunday. There will also be an art competition featuring original work from local artisans. Free admission.
Handbags for Hope.Tickets are on sale for this unique event, featuring live and silent auctions of hundreds of handbags. New and gently used handbags from top designers will be available. Don’t miss out, only 200 tickets are available!
Breathe Easy Salt Spa Open House in Midlothian at Westchester Commons.
Day of Dance with HCA for Heart Health Month. Find a location near you!
Simon Kidgits Club at Virginia Center Commons is hosting its free annual Book Blast event and inviting families to participate and be inspired to read together at home and beyond. Simon Kidgits Club’s Book Blast is offering an assortment of fun book-based activities to ultimately help kids reap the many benefits of reading. Come join the fun from 1:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m. in the Sears Court with special readings, fun games and giveaways along with a special appearance by Curious George. Kidgits members will receive a free Library Gift Tote. Not a member, visit the Guest Services at Virginia Center Commons website for more details.
Monster Jam®, featuring Grave Digger – Lowe’s Build and Grow Program is at 10 a.m. Your child will love the Monster Jam® kit featuring Grave Digger®! Bring them to Lowe’s this weekend to get closer than ever to one of their favorite Monster Jam superstars. Registration required but it’s FREE!
Virginia Wine Expo. Meet the winemakers, mingle with friends and taste and buy over 400 bottles of Virginia wine inside the Greater Richmond Convention Center. Don’t miss the hottest winter wine event in Virginia! February 19-24.
Zest Fest 2013 with FeedMore. Join us for an evening to remember! Virginia wines and craft brewers, top local chefs and caterers, and exciting auction prizes all for a great cause of feeding our neighbors in need! New this year, Zest Fest is part of the Virginia Wine Expo’s schedule of events. 6-10pm. Black tie optional.
Sunday, February 24
Help Connor Cure Cancer – a family night out at Belle Vie restaurant to raise money for pediatric cancer research. Kids welcome and lots of food, fun, raffles, and more.
37th Concert Ballet Repertory Gala. The event will be held at The Woman’s Club Auditorium, 211 East Franklin Street. You will enjoy wonderful dancing, live music, and scrumptious desserts! February 22 and 24th, 2013.
Ringling Brothers and Barnum & Bailey Built to Amaze tour at the Richmond Coliseum. February 20-24
“Brain Game: Big Bad Bear” will be aired on Green Screen Adventures on Sunday, February 24 at 8:00 a.m. on Me-TV. Me-TV can be seen on WWBT, Channel 12.2. Green Screen Adventures is featuring the work submitted by Caroline Moore from West End Montessori School located in Richmond, Virginia.
2013 Orchid Show at Strange’s Garden Center & Florist. Enjoy over 600 orchids displayed in artfully designed exhibits with an Hawaiian theme. Vendors will be on hand offering orchid plants, art & supplies, and free lectures will be available throughout Saturday and Sunday. There will also be an art competition featuring original work from local artisans. Free admission.
Virginia Wine Expo. Meet the winemakers, mingle with friends and taste and buy over 400 bottles of Virginia wine inside the Greater Richmond Convention Center. Don’t miss the hottest winter wine event in Virginia! February 19-24.
Community Wide Purim Carnival. There will be tons of fun for the whole family at The Richmond Community Purim Carnival on Sunday, February 24. Held at the Weinstein JCC from 12:15 p.m. – 3:15 p.m., the afternoon will be filled with a variety of fun activities, including carnival games, face painting, inflatables, clowns, carnival food, and much more. The Weinstein JCC is located at 5403 Monument Ave.
The Commonwealth Parenting Center will be hosting a Pajama Party Family Fun Night on Friday, January 25th from 6:00pm-7:30pm at the Canterbury Preschool. The whole family is invited to wear your favorite pajamas for an evening of fun, pizza, cookies, and story-time with the super popular Mr. Chris from the Twin Hickory Public Library. (Anyone who has taken their kid to see story time with Mr. Chris knows they’re in for a good time!) There will be door prizes for kids and parents! Tickets are $6.00 each or a family 4-pack for $20.00. To purchase tickets, call 804-545-1272 or visit www.commonwealthparenting.org.
Family fun is guaranteed, and proceeds will help Commonwealth Parenting Center continue to deliver educational workshops and support to Richmond area families.
See www.commonwealthparenting.org for more information about the Family Fun Night and other scheduled programs and events.
]]>Have an event to add to our calendar? Email us at kate@richmondmom.com!
ALWAYS check dates, times and locations of events as they may change after posting here.
Now through January 31
January 18 – February 10
The Magic Flute: Virginia Rep’s Children’s Theatre of Virginia kicks off 2013 with The Magic Flute on Friday, January 18 at Willow Lawn, 1601 Willow Lawn Drive, Richmond, Virginia. The show is part of the Acts of Faith Theatre Festival and will run through February 10, 2013.
Now through March 1
Rocky Mountain Express (film in IMAX®DOME) Through-Friday March 1 – Join in the epic adventure of building Canada’s first transcontinental railway as you are propelled on a steam train journey through the Canadian Rockies. $9 general admission, $5 for members.
Now through January 23
Polar Express (film in IMAX®DOME) Saturday, November 17-Wednesday, January 23 – Based on the modern holiday classic written by children’s author Chris Van Allsburg, Polar Express follows the journey of a young boy named Billy who doubts the existence of Santa Claus. With a family who believes everything from the elves to flying reindeer are myths, Billy’s whole viewpoint changes when a mysterious train visits him on Christmas Eve promising to take him and other children to the North Pole. The train’s conductor, along with other passengers, help turn Billy’s crisis into a journey of self-discovery in this heart-warming holiday film. $9 general admission, $5 for members.
Now through January 31
Now – February 10
The Magic Flute: Virginia Rep’s Children’s Theatre of Virginia kicks off 2013 with The Magic Flute on Friday, January 18 at Willow Lawn, 1601 Willow Lawn Drive, Richmond, Virginia. The show is part of the Acts of Faith Theatre Festival and will run through February 10, 2013.
Through February 13, 2013
Reduced admission to Lewis Ginter Botanical Gardens for a “Winter Special”!
February 19-24, 2013
Mary Poppins at the Landmark Theatre.
Monday, January 21
The Maggie L. Walker National Historic Site will host, “Elvira’s Eyes,” at 2 pm – a documentary produced by 17-year-old park volunteer Sydney Shavers. The documentary tells the story of the Henrico High School senior’s quest to document more fully the story of her great-great-great grandmother, Elvira Sophia Abernathy, who lived during both slavery and segregation. The presentation will take place in the park’s visitor center at 2 p.m. Free and open to the public.
Parenting an Anxious Child – About kids 2-8. Commonwealth Parenting. Join Family Educator Susan Brown to learn how to calm your child’s anxieties and maybe even your own. Great opportunity to feel more confident in your parenting.
Painting: Winter Watercolors at CMoR Central. Homeschool Program: Classes for 3-5, and 6-8 year olds. See website for times and details. Children use watercolors, cottonballs, and lots of other things to create art. 1pm-2pm and 3pm-4pm.
Martin Luther King Jr Day Celebration at all CMoR locations – 10 am – 4 pm. Paint your own dream in the art studios or listen to special story times in all three museum locations to celebrate the life of Martin Luther King Jr. Read special facts throughout all locations about the importance and significance of this great leader. Remember that CMoR is now open all day every Monday so come celebrate history with us!
Tuesday, January 22
Read 2 Rover at Central Library in Chesterfield. For children struggling with reading, the comfort and companionship of the therapy dogs helps to turn something stressful into an activity that is fun and soothing.
Young at Art at VMFA at 10 a.m. Designed for children 2 to 5 years of age accompanied by an adult. The children enjoy stories, activities, and a gallery visit; this month’s theme is Moving Mobiles. the Painter. Repeats each week and Thursdays at 10:00 a.m. Register: 804-340-1405.
Snow Day Craft at Pottery Barn Kids in Short Pump Mall at 11:30 a.m. Story, hands-on deluxe crafting projects.
Wednesday, January 23
Painting: Winter Watercolors at CMoR Chesterfield. Homeschool Program: Classes for 3-5, and 6-8 year olds. See website for times and details. Children use watercolors, cottonballs, and lots of other things to create art. 1pm-2pm and 3pm-4pm.
Lunch Break Science at the Science Museum at noon. Closer Look at Common Eye Conditions presented by Tami Flowers, MD, Commonwealth Eye Care Associates.
Thursday, January 24
Little Kids Big Questions: Potty Training. By Commonwealth Parenting – Potty training is one of the biggest milestones in a child’s development, but can also cause stress and anxiety in both parent and child. Discuss readiness, potty training approaches, how to handle accidents and temporary setbacks that may occur.
ADHD Students: Paths to Success (Parents of School-age Children) – 6-8pm – Help your child experience more school success from now until the end of the year. Take a look at strategies for working with the child on the symptoms which affect eduction such as disorganization, procrastination, distraction and fidgeting. Learn to gradually teach your child to be better organized with homework and schedules. Get tips for positive communication between school and home.
Children’s Storytime at Barnes & Noble Short Pump – ages 6 and under. 10:30 a.m. On the fourth Thursday of each month, we’ll have a special visit from Seymour and the Children’s Museum.
Friday, January 25
Family Fun Night: Pajama Party. Commonwealth Parenting – Bring the whole family for an evening of fun together! Wear your favorite pajamas and enjoy pizza, cookies, and storytime with Mr. Chris 6:00 – 7:30 pm at Canterbury Community Preschool, 601 N. Parham Road, Richmond 23229 – *Door prizes for parents and kids! Click here to register: Individual tickets or Family 4-pack tickets.
Painting: Winter Watercolors at CMoR Short Pump. Homeschool Program: Classes for 3-5, and 6-8 year olds. See website for times and details. Children use watercolors, cottonballs, and lots of other things to create art. 1pm-2pm and 3pm-4pm.
Family Night Pajama Party at Canterbury Nursery School (8960 River Road, Richmond). Come dressed in your pj’s to enjoy pizza, cookies, and storytime with Mr. Chris! Tickets available at the website. Family 4-pack $20, individual tickets $6. Doorprizes for adults and kids. Email info@commonwealthparenting.org with questions.
American Girl Book Club at Barnes & Noble Short Pump at 7pm. Bring your dool to this program. It’s free. Call 804.360.0103 with questions.
Saturday, January 26
Midas is having a blood drive. Mark your calendar for 1/26 — it’s a day that will allow you to save lives with car care — donate a pint of blood and get a free oil change!
Shakespeare and Galileo at 1pm at the Science Museum. The Carpenter Science Theatre performs Shakespeare and Galileo – a hypothetical meeting between the Bard and the Father of Modern Science. Enjoy humor, mystery and espionage of this play inside of the Museum’s Ms. Barbara Thalhimer Theater. Recommended for ages 10 and up. Included with exhibit admission.
Teaching Empathy, Tolerance and Inclusion – An anti-bullying workshop. While bullying takes place at every age, it seems that the middle school years are at a time when sadly, for many children, it becomes a way of life. What is happening in the middle school years that make children vulnerable to bullying and what can adults do to strengthen self esteem?
Clifford’s 50th Birthday Bash at CMoR Chesterfield. 10am-4pm. Enjoy story times, art projects, activities with PBS, sweet treats and much more….along with a special birthday serenade by our guests at 12 o’clock noon so Clifford can blow out his candle on his cake and accept his birthday cards! Free with museum admission.
Barefoot Puppets: Little Red and the Gingerbread Man. Richmond CenterStage – this show combines two well-loved, classic tales to create an original, fun-filled romp through fairy tales. Join Little Red and she pursues a mischievous Gingerbread cookie through the woods to Grandma’s house. Original music, snowy scenery, and everyone’s favorite Big Bad Wolf make up this seasonal favorite for our youngest audiences. Recommended for ages 3 and up – 10 a.m.
Virginia State Yo-Yo Competition at CMoR Central. Yo-Yo champions and lots of demonstrations!
Mickey Mouse Mania! Musical Playdate at Melody Magic Music Studio. Enjoy a playdate focused on everyone’s favorite guy! Featuring all your favorite clubhouse songs — Clubhouse theme song, Hot Dog, Choo Choo Express — Mickey Mouse Mania is sure to please each and every child! Ages 0-7 years, with a parent. Enroll online for just $9 per child.
Family Features at VMFA. Warm up inside the museum with a feature-length film, and create a self-directed craft at the end of the show. Movie ticket includes a free hot chocolate, tea, or coffee in Best Café before or after the film. 804-340-1405. 10:30 a.m.
Virginia Dance Festival at James River High School, 3700 James River Road, Midlothian. A benefit event dedicated to helping children in Central Virginia through Children’s Hospital Foundation and celebrating dance in all of its many forms, including Tap, Hip-Hop, Jazz, Ballet, Classical Indian, Irish, Ballroom, Musical Theater, and American Indian dances and more. Performances at 3pm and 7pm. Tickets are $12/adult and $10/child (ages 3-11) for one show, and $18/adult and $15/child for both shows. Tickets will be sold at the door the day of the show. Call (804) 739-7600 or visit the website for more information.
Sunday, January 27
Clifford’s 50th Birthday Bash at CMoR Chesterfield. 10am-4pm. Enjoy story times, art projects, activities with PBS, sweet treats and much more….along with a special birthday serenade by our guests at 12 o’clock noon so Clifford can blow out his candle on his cake and accept his birthday cards! Free with museum admission.
Shakespeare and Galileo at 1pm at the Science Museum. The Carpenter Science Theatre performs Shakespeare and Galileo – a hypothetical meeting between the Bard and the Father of Modern Science. Enjoy humor, mystery and espionage of this play inside of the Museum’s Ms. Barbara Thalhimer Theater. Recommended for ages 10 and up. Included with exhibit admission.
Lunar Year 2013 Celebration at CMoR Central with tastes, sights, and sounds of this colorful holiday when families of Asian descent enjoy family reunions and special meals – to bring health, wealth and happiness in the New Year.
Winter Concert – Annual concert presented by the Richmond Symphony Youth Orchestra. Free – 7pm-8pm.
]]>Man, all of that sounds both obviously simple and frustratingly difficult at the same time.
Luckily, we as parents are not alone. The Federal Government continues to publish useful, real-world information for parents and educators on how to identify, respond to, and prevent bullying situations at www.StopBullying.gov. The comprehensive site includes information on common risk factors and warning signs, such as changes in eating habits, declining grades or self-destructive behaviors that adults can look for throughout the school year.
Also highlighted on the site is a toolkit that adults and schools can use to jumpstart school-based and community-based programs to help prevent bullying, as well as specific steps to follow to respond to existing bullying behaviors.
Because our children can spend much of their time online, www.StopBullying.gov also has information on cyberbullying as well as a section written specifically for kids that includes videos and games that help deliver useful information in a kid-relatable format.
This is especially important, points out Susan Brown, Assistant Director of Commonwealth Parenting, because involving our kids in the discussion and solutions is critical to the success of any prevention programs we put in place.
Susan shares the following reminders for parents as we gear up for the new school year:
— Be watchful of areas where bullying is most likely to occur, such as the bus stop. Organize with neighbors to have a parent present each morning and afternoon to deter bullying situations.
— Create an environment of openness and understanding with your children, where they are free to share. Kids will open up if they feel safe and heard.
— Pay close attention to your child’s behavior at home – for example if he or she is feigning illness to not go to school, find out the root of the problem.
— If you suspect your child is being bullied, get on top of the issue immediately, rather than take a wait-and-see approach. If you suspect the situation is ongoing or dangerous, click here for more information on what to do.
— Parents should respectfully but persistently expect schools to be involved with this issue, both in a preventative manner but also with each bullying incidence that arises with their students, be it at school, on the bus, or online.
Regardless of whether or not your child is being bullied, is at risk of becoming a bully, has been a bystander, or perhaps an UPstander, as a parent you absolutely have a child who fits somewhere on the bullying spectrum. This issue belongs to us all.
We at Richmondmom.com want to thank our readers and sponsors who have participated in and supported this ongoing discussion. Thank you to those who have helped supply us with information, perspectives, personal stories and expertise. You are our partners in this and together we can create school environments where all of our children feel safe and supported.
]]>NOTE: Be sure and check out the valuable information and tips in the Brain Balance newsletter. Click here.