What: Brentwood Farmer's Market
Where: 741 S Gretna Way, Los Angeles 90046
The market is one block west of Bundy, between San Vicente and Montana Ave. Parking is on the street along San Vicente.
When: Sundays, 9a.m.-2:30p.m.
Who: All ages
Mama of L.A. Review
I was really impressed with the Brentwood Farmer's Market for a number of reasons. For parents, if you are doing some weekly grocery shopping, the market is loaded with goodies. There are a lot of vendors offering fruits and veggies, oils, clothes, etc. and I noticed that prices of seemed to be lower because of the high competition. For kids, their are a number of fun things to do. On one end of the market their are a couple of bouncy gyms, although they charge $5 for 10 minutes of bouncing, which seems a little crazy but kids love nonetheless. Although not there today, I was told that usually they have animals for kids to marvel at as well. The best part, however, is that about half way through the market their is a playground for kids to play on. It has picnic tables and benches surrounding it, so it's perfect to pick up some fresh cooked food at the market and have a snack while your kids play.
Overall, nice Sunday stop for the whole family.
Extra Tips: Don't miss the empanadas or the fresh fruit juice offered at the pupusas stand. Bring sunscreen, it gets warm fast. The earlier, the better for parking, it is a bit of a walk if you get there late morning. Bring bags for grocery shopping, you will definitely want to take the fresh fruit home.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Saturday, March 7, 2009
Sesame Street The Body
What: Sesame Street the Body
Where: Hollywood & Highland center. The exhibit is on the second floor across from Starbucks and CPK.
When: Now through April 26th. Fridays-Sundays 10-6.
Who: All ages are welcome. Tickets are $10 for an adult & child and $5 for another adult or child.
click here to order tickets and for more info.
Mama of L.A. Review
I have to say that I was disappointed with this exhibit. There are quite a few "stations" for kids to interact with, but it felt like they were just placed in an open room. There was really no flow to the exhibit, kids and parents just running to where they wanted to go. Also, the point of the exhibit was to teach kids about the body and I didn't see how any of this was accomplished. Sure the games included jumping, kicking, pressing buttons and more, but with a loud noise level it was hard to hear much of what the game voices were trying to teach the kids.
The highlights of the exhibit are a short obstacle course with padded mats and the "Hoopers store" where kids use baskets to collect plastic health food options. Other than that, not much stood out. My daughter definitely didn't have a favorite part, which tells me something.
Overall, skip the exhibit and save the money to go to a live show.
Extra Tips: The exhibit is in the kodak theater with restaurants, so grab a bite before or after. Definitely reserve tickets online before you go, the room gets to capacity quickly.
Been to the Sesame Street Body Exhibit and have comments? Please feel free to share your opinion.
Where: Hollywood & Highland center. The exhibit is on the second floor across from Starbucks and CPK.
When: Now through April 26th. Fridays-Sundays 10-6.
Who: All ages are welcome. Tickets are $10 for an adult & child and $5 for another adult or child.
click here to order tickets and for more info.
Mama of L.A. Review
I have to say that I was disappointed with this exhibit. There are quite a few "stations" for kids to interact with, but it felt like they were just placed in an open room. There was really no flow to the exhibit, kids and parents just running to where they wanted to go. Also, the point of the exhibit was to teach kids about the body and I didn't see how any of this was accomplished. Sure the games included jumping, kicking, pressing buttons and more, but with a loud noise level it was hard to hear much of what the game voices were trying to teach the kids.
The highlights of the exhibit are a short obstacle course with padded mats and the "Hoopers store" where kids use baskets to collect plastic health food options. Other than that, not much stood out. My daughter definitely didn't have a favorite part, which tells me something.
Overall, skip the exhibit and save the money to go to a live show.
Extra Tips: The exhibit is in the kodak theater with restaurants, so grab a bite before or after. Definitely reserve tickets online before you go, the room gets to capacity quickly.
Been to the Sesame Street Body Exhibit and have comments? Please feel free to share your opinion.
Friday, March 6, 2009
Woodbridge Park
What: Woodbridge Park
Where: Corner of Elmer and Moorpark in Toluca Lake. Just 1 block East of Tujunga.
When: Open dawn to dusk.
Who: Toddlers and up
Mama of L.A. Review:
There are aspects of this park that are great but also a few downers. One portion that I really like is that toddlers have their own separate play area. It has unique equipment and little ones love the climbing apparatus with two slides. It is totally safe and fun for them to climb all by themselves. The toddler area also has the soft flooring so no bruises when they tumble.
The main playground is great for both older and younger kids. It is loaded with slides, drawbridges, a couple of toddler and regular swings, poles, etc. with sand to scoop, throw and dig. The park is surrounded by two fields that are big enough to run around, kick balls, walk dogs and take a stroll yourself. There are also a few picnic tables and benches for snack time.
The down side to this park is that there is barely any shade. It is surrounded by trees in a nice neighborhood, but not enough to cover the playground. It is also located next to an Elementary school which means kids, kids, kids when school gets out. If you like to go to parks on the quieter side, definitely go in the mornings and the sun won't be as bright either. Also, there are NO bathrooms, the closest being two blocks away, so be prepared. Oh, I should also mention that my experience with parents here has been wonderful. Everyone is really friendly which is refreshing.
Overall, really fun play equipment, but go in the mornings before it is too hot or school is let out.
Extra Tips: A great perk to this park is that it is just two short blocks away from Tujunga Ave., which has a really cute Gelato shop as well as Aroma Cafe, with great healthy food and incredible smoothies! Make a potty stop before you hit the park. Bring a ball to throw or kick with you, there is plenty of room. Don't forget the sunscreen.
Where: Corner of Elmer and Moorpark in Toluca Lake. Just 1 block East of Tujunga.
When: Open dawn to dusk.
Who: Toddlers and up
Mama of L.A. Review:
There are aspects of this park that are great but also a few downers. One portion that I really like is that toddlers have their own separate play area. It has unique equipment and little ones love the climbing apparatus with two slides. It is totally safe and fun for them to climb all by themselves. The toddler area also has the soft flooring so no bruises when they tumble.
The main playground is great for both older and younger kids. It is loaded with slides, drawbridges, a couple of toddler and regular swings, poles, etc. with sand to scoop, throw and dig. The park is surrounded by two fields that are big enough to run around, kick balls, walk dogs and take a stroll yourself. There are also a few picnic tables and benches for snack time.
The down side to this park is that there is barely any shade. It is surrounded by trees in a nice neighborhood, but not enough to cover the playground. It is also located next to an Elementary school which means kids, kids, kids when school gets out. If you like to go to parks on the quieter side, definitely go in the mornings and the sun won't be as bright either. Also, there are NO bathrooms, the closest being two blocks away, so be prepared. Oh, I should also mention that my experience with parents here has been wonderful. Everyone is really friendly which is refreshing.
Overall, really fun play equipment, but go in the mornings before it is too hot or school is let out.
Extra Tips: A great perk to this park is that it is just two short blocks away from Tujunga Ave., which has a really cute Gelato shop as well as Aroma Cafe, with great healthy food and incredible smoothies! Make a potty stop before you hit the park. Bring a ball to throw or kick with you, there is plenty of room. Don't forget the sunscreen.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
The Playroom
What: The Playroom, an indoor play area
Where: 14392 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks 91423 (818)784-7529
When: Monday - Friday 10-6, but closes some Tuesdays at 4:30
Who: Toddlers through Pre-school
Mama of L.A. Review:
It is a rainy day and my toddler gets very anxious to get out of the house and run around. I just happened to Google "indoor playground" and "The Playroom" popped up. I was actually a little skeptical about this. I pictured snot hanging from the corners of the room and kids screaming in an enclosed area. Anyway, I got over my premonitions and decided to give it a try.
Located on the second level of a strip mall, the underground parking is a bit annoying. Once you get over that though, and realize that the swarms of babies in the elevator are actually going to a "first baby" class at a different location, you are on your way to The Playroom. Once inside, you take off your shoes and pay a pretty hefty fee of $9 for the day. They do have other pass options, however, that bring the cost down to $6 when you buy in bulk.
Once exploring the not so large playroom, they pack a lot of really fun toys and elements in for the kids. About 15 push toys for little ones, short basketball hoops, a play kitchen, 2 mini roller coasters (not electric, just cars on a long slide), plenty of large balls, a ball pit, jungle gym with a surprisingly fast slide that my daughter would have flown off of if I didn't catch her, and the best part of all, a large jump house. I loved this because I am always too nervous to put my daughter in the ones with the older kids and here, the kids are about 4 and under, and most of the time she had it to herself. She loved the chance to practice her jumping skills in a safe place.
The flow of The Playroom works well. The attendant was always walking around putting toys into there places and making sure kids could run around easily. One complaint is that there was a child who wasn't being supervised and of course, as a result, getting away with bullying other kids. They do have a rule that every child has to be with adult supervision at all times, but this one got away with it and caused a few tears.
Overall, The Playroom is a friendly place to go on rainy days that lets little ones blow off steam and have a lot of fun.
Extra Tips: There are a few tables if you want to bring lunch and eat it there. Go expecting to play with your kids the whole time, a closed in area means more close collisions that can be avoided. If you can find street parking, use it.
Where: 14392 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks 91423 (818)784-7529
When: Monday - Friday 10-6, but closes some Tuesdays at 4:30
Who: Toddlers through Pre-school
Mama of L.A. Review:
It is a rainy day and my toddler gets very anxious to get out of the house and run around. I just happened to Google "indoor playground" and "The Playroom" popped up. I was actually a little skeptical about this. I pictured snot hanging from the corners of the room and kids screaming in an enclosed area. Anyway, I got over my premonitions and decided to give it a try.
Located on the second level of a strip mall, the underground parking is a bit annoying. Once you get over that though, and realize that the swarms of babies in the elevator are actually going to a "first baby" class at a different location, you are on your way to The Playroom. Once inside, you take off your shoes and pay a pretty hefty fee of $9 for the day. They do have other pass options, however, that bring the cost down to $6 when you buy in bulk.
Once exploring the not so large playroom, they pack a lot of really fun toys and elements in for the kids. About 15 push toys for little ones, short basketball hoops, a play kitchen, 2 mini roller coasters (not electric, just cars on a long slide), plenty of large balls, a ball pit, jungle gym with a surprisingly fast slide that my daughter would have flown off of if I didn't catch her, and the best part of all, a large jump house. I loved this because I am always too nervous to put my daughter in the ones with the older kids and here, the kids are about 4 and under, and most of the time she had it to herself. She loved the chance to practice her jumping skills in a safe place.
The flow of The Playroom works well. The attendant was always walking around putting toys into there places and making sure kids could run around easily. One complaint is that there was a child who wasn't being supervised and of course, as a result, getting away with bullying other kids. They do have a rule that every child has to be with adult supervision at all times, but this one got away with it and caused a few tears.
Overall, The Playroom is a friendly place to go on rainy days that lets little ones blow off steam and have a lot of fun.
Extra Tips: There are a few tables if you want to bring lunch and eat it there. Go expecting to play with your kids the whole time, a closed in area means more close collisions that can be avoided. If you can find street parking, use it.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Coldwater Canyon Park
What: Coldwater Canyon Park
Where: 1100 North Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, 90210
The park is located at the base of Coldwater Canyon, just as you start to head over the hill toward the valley.
When to go: All days. The unique water feature is really fun for kids on hot days, although some of the playground equipment gets too hot in the direct sun.
Who: Toddlers that are steady on their feet and up.
Mama of L.A. Review
Coldwater Canyon Park has a great feature that other parks in the area do not, a great windy path of flowing water that is open for kids to splash around in on warm days. The water is really cold, but kids don't care and it actually feels great on hot days. We went this past Sunday and it was the first time the water was running. My daughter ran around in her t-shirt and diaper along with the other kids and had a great time! I wish I was a little more prepared, since she ended up wearing a shirt of mine home, but she certainly did not mind.
This park also has great toddler swings. May sound funny, but they have long chains and the toddlers get a really "wide" swing. My daughter goes crazy with laughter here more than any other park. Another feature that I like is that there is an "older" and a "younger" playground area with plenty equipment for a lot of kids to have fun. The only down side is that it can get busy and a bit over crowded, which always takes the fun out of a park.
Overall, if you go a little earlier in the morning or afternoon, avoiding the masses, you will find a little oasis at Coldwater Park.
Extra Tips: Definitely bring a change of clothes or a swimsuit for your child, they will get soaked! Sunscreen is a must. Saturday and Sunday mornings are quiet and nice, with not too many people running around. Bring snacks and plenty of water, kids get a great workout here.
Where: 1100 North Beverly Drive, Beverly Hills, 90210
The park is located at the base of Coldwater Canyon, just as you start to head over the hill toward the valley.
When to go: All days. The unique water feature is really fun for kids on hot days, although some of the playground equipment gets too hot in the direct sun.
Who: Toddlers that are steady on their feet and up.
Mama of L.A. Review
Coldwater Canyon Park has a great feature that other parks in the area do not, a great windy path of flowing water that is open for kids to splash around in on warm days. The water is really cold, but kids don't care and it actually feels great on hot days. We went this past Sunday and it was the first time the water was running. My daughter ran around in her t-shirt and diaper along with the other kids and had a great time! I wish I was a little more prepared, since she ended up wearing a shirt of mine home, but she certainly did not mind.
This park also has great toddler swings. May sound funny, but they have long chains and the toddlers get a really "wide" swing. My daughter goes crazy with laughter here more than any other park. Another feature that I like is that there is an "older" and a "younger" playground area with plenty equipment for a lot of kids to have fun. The only down side is that it can get busy and a bit over crowded, which always takes the fun out of a park.
Overall, if you go a little earlier in the morning or afternoon, avoiding the masses, you will find a little oasis at Coldwater Park.
Extra Tips: Definitely bring a change of clothes or a swimsuit for your child, they will get soaked! Sunscreen is a must. Saturday and Sunday mornings are quiet and nice, with not too many people running around. Bring snacks and plenty of water, kids get a great workout here.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Studio City Farmer's Market
What: Studio City Farmer's Market
Where: 4024 Radford Ave., Studio City 91604 (It is right by the CBS studio on Radford and Ventura)
When: the Farmer's Market is open from 8a.m. - 1 p.m. on Sundays. The kids section opens at 9 a.m.
Who: All ages.
Mama of L.A. Review:
My favorite way to start Sunday is at the Studio City Farmer's Market, not to mention that my daughter talks about it all week long. The Farmer's market is only one long block, but they pack in a lot of fun. The east side of the market is totally reserved for kids. There are pony rides, a swing ride, a Thomas the Train choo choo ride, a petting zoo, a bouncy house and vendors that sell balloons, popcorn, toys, you name it.
The mid section of the Farmer's market has delicious food options. I love the vegetarian crepes, although they can take a while to make, and my husband prefers the breakfast burritos or fresh tamales. There are tables set up in the shade, so it is perfect way to have a mid-morning snack. The rest of the market displays vendors with fruit, vegetables, kids' clothes, flowers, fresh seafood, and many other items to get you through the week on a healthy diet.
Overall, a GREAT way to spend your Sunday morning!
Extra tips: Parking is easy until about 9:30, so get there early. Bring an extra bag for groceries, it is much easier than carrying a bunch of plastic bags. Bring sunscreen, it can get warm later in the day. Go with an appetite, the food is fresh and delicious!
Where: 4024 Radford Ave., Studio City 91604 (It is right by the CBS studio on Radford and Ventura)
When: the Farmer's Market is open from 8a.m. - 1 p.m. on Sundays. The kids section opens at 9 a.m.
Who: All ages.
Mama of L.A. Review:
My favorite way to start Sunday is at the Studio City Farmer's Market, not to mention that my daughter talks about it all week long. The Farmer's market is only one long block, but they pack in a lot of fun. The east side of the market is totally reserved for kids. There are pony rides, a swing ride, a Thomas the Train choo choo ride, a petting zoo, a bouncy house and vendors that sell balloons, popcorn, toys, you name it.
The mid section of the Farmer's market has delicious food options. I love the vegetarian crepes, although they can take a while to make, and my husband prefers the breakfast burritos or fresh tamales. There are tables set up in the shade, so it is perfect way to have a mid-morning snack. The rest of the market displays vendors with fruit, vegetables, kids' clothes, flowers, fresh seafood, and many other items to get you through the week on a healthy diet.
Overall, a GREAT way to spend your Sunday morning!
Extra tips: Parking is easy until about 9:30, so get there early. Bring an extra bag for groceries, it is much easier than carrying a bunch of plastic bags. Bring sunscreen, it can get warm later in the day. Go with an appetite, the food is fresh and delicious!
Thursday, February 26, 2009
The Self-Realization Temple and Lake-Shrine
What: An outdoor, nature secret to explore, hidden in the peaceful setting of The Self-Realization Temple and Lake Shrine.
Where: 17190 Sunset Blvd., Pacific Palisades, CA 90272
When to go: Monday - Saturday 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., Sundays 12:30 p.m. - 4:30 p.m. As long as the sun is shining, there is no wrong time to go. The mornings during the week are typically more quiet than weekends though and it is a nice time to have it almost to yourself.
Who should go: All ages. Babies will enjoy the peace, toddlers will enjoy the soft walking path and animals, and older kids will like the lake and nature too, and adults will love the peace.
Mama of L.A. Review:
Pulling into the parking lot of the Lake-Shrine, you feel that you are in for something special. The air is peaceful and people walking around seem to have a calm around them, even those with strollers and running toddlers, like my own. Walking just a short walk, you clearly see why people are enjoying themselves. Your welcoming view is a pretty lake, with shrines surrounding it and two beautiful swans swimming about. The path is covered in soft wood chips and my 21 month old daughter ran and ran and ran and ran, pausing here and there to look at blooming flowers or climb stairs that lead to quiet meditation outlets. I was a little nervous that her loud giggles would disturb people seeking a quiet outlet, but everyone just smiled and seemed to enjoy what she brought to the place. About half way around the lake, (8 minutes into the walk), there is a small dock that holds healthy fish food for kids to feed the gigantic Koi. Kids love this (as do the fish). Continuing on the path, you will find turtles sunbathing around the lake, plenty of ducks and even a few lizards.
Overall, the Lake Shrine is a secret oasis that is refreshing for both you and your children. A place in Los Angeles that shouldn't be missed.
Extra Tips: The Lake Shrine takes about 20 minutes to get around, going slowly. It is only .25 miles from the beach, so pack a picnic, bring a blanket and head to the beach for a full day's adventure.
Click Here for more information on the Lake Shrine Self-Realization Temple
All of your comments and suggestions about Lake Shrine are welcome and helpful!
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Santa Monica Beach Outing
What: A morning out on Santa Monica Beach
Where: Santa Monica Beach, just south of the pier. I like to park at Shutters Hotel, valet is $7 with validation. Beach parking at the base of the pier is $8, and if you don't have cash you have to walk to the ATM and then walk back (a pain if you are usually unprepared in the cash department, like myself).
Shutters Hotel Parking: From the 10 west, exit 4th/5th st. Make a Left on 4th st. Turn Right on Pico. Shutters valet parking is on the right hand side just before you hit the beach.
Address: 1 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90405
Phone: (310)458-0030
When to go: Mornings on a weekday around 10a.m. are perfect. The beach is freshly combed, the only sunbathers are a few brave spring-breakers, and the dolphins are close to shore skimming the surface.
Who: First-time walkers will love the safe sand to topple in and older kids will love to play in the sand and watch the dolphins.
Mama of L.A. Review:
This morning my daughter, my dad, my grandma, and I, all headed down to the Santa Monica beach. Not something I would typically think of doing, but because my family is from MN, any chance to catch a little sun and see the ocean is more than welcome. We got to Santa Monica at about 9:45a.m., parked at the Shutters Hotel, and immediately headed directly out to where the waves crash. My daughter loved the long walk on the sand, frequently stopping to scoop it up, toss it in the air, and inevitably landing some in her eyes. We walked north for a while, watching dolphins the whole way and only had a dozen people sharing the beach. Just before the pier, we headed back to the boardwalk, and we ran right into a cute park set up for little ones. It had toddler and adult swings, large rocks to climb and sit on and a few more places for kids to explore. My daughter loved it and it was nice to stop for a break after walking on the sand for a while.
After playing for almost 2 hours, we stopped to have lunch at the lovely Shutters on the Beach. They have an amazing fish & chips and my daughter was entertained by the water fountain and people walking by on the boardwalk the entire lunch. They also bring crunchy breadsticks that kids love to snack on while waiting for their food.
Overall, going to the Santa Monica Beach in the morning, on a weekday, is a really nice and easy way to spend time at the beach with your kids. With the kid parks and natural entertainment the beach provides, your kids will have a blast enjoying the fresh air and be exhausted from running around in the sand all morning.
Extra tips: Bring a washcloth for sand in the eyes, sand toys, a light blanket if you want to hang out and sunscreen.
Shutters lunch is on the expensive side, so a good option is to pack sandwiches and have a picnic on the beach.
The Pier has A LOT of fun games and rides for kids. Click Here for a time schedule and list of activities.
Heal the Bay aquarium is a great small aquarium for kids to see sharks, jellyfish, large fish and touch starfish. Click here for their hours of operation and information.
All comments and suggestions about Santa Monica Beach are welcome and helpful!
Where: Santa Monica Beach, just south of the pier. I like to park at Shutters Hotel, valet is $7 with validation. Beach parking at the base of the pier is $8, and if you don't have cash you have to walk to the ATM and then walk back (a pain if you are usually unprepared in the cash department, like myself).
Shutters Hotel Parking: From the 10 west, exit 4th/5th st. Make a Left on 4th st. Turn Right on Pico. Shutters valet parking is on the right hand side just before you hit the beach.
Address: 1 Pico Blvd, Santa Monica, CA 90405
Phone: (310)458-0030
When to go: Mornings on a weekday around 10a.m. are perfect. The beach is freshly combed, the only sunbathers are a few brave spring-breakers, and the dolphins are close to shore skimming the surface.
Who: First-time walkers will love the safe sand to topple in and older kids will love to play in the sand and watch the dolphins.
Mama of L.A. Review:
This morning my daughter, my dad, my grandma, and I, all headed down to the Santa Monica beach. Not something I would typically think of doing, but because my family is from MN, any chance to catch a little sun and see the ocean is more than welcome. We got to Santa Monica at about 9:45a.m., parked at the Shutters Hotel, and immediately headed directly out to where the waves crash. My daughter loved the long walk on the sand, frequently stopping to scoop it up, toss it in the air, and inevitably landing some in her eyes. We walked north for a while, watching dolphins the whole way and only had a dozen people sharing the beach. Just before the pier, we headed back to the boardwalk, and we ran right into a cute park set up for little ones. It had toddler and adult swings, large rocks to climb and sit on and a few more places for kids to explore. My daughter loved it and it was nice to stop for a break after walking on the sand for a while.
After playing for almost 2 hours, we stopped to have lunch at the lovely Shutters on the Beach. They have an amazing fish & chips and my daughter was entertained by the water fountain and people walking by on the boardwalk the entire lunch. They also bring crunchy breadsticks that kids love to snack on while waiting for their food.
Overall, going to the Santa Monica Beach in the morning, on a weekday, is a really nice and easy way to spend time at the beach with your kids. With the kid parks and natural entertainment the beach provides, your kids will have a blast enjoying the fresh air and be exhausted from running around in the sand all morning.
Extra tips: Bring a washcloth for sand in the eyes, sand toys, a light blanket if you want to hang out and sunscreen.
Shutters lunch is on the expensive side, so a good option is to pack sandwiches and have a picnic on the beach.
The Pier has A LOT of fun games and rides for kids. Click Here for a time schedule and list of activities.
Heal the Bay aquarium is a great small aquarium for kids to see sharks, jellyfish, large fish and touch starfish. Click here for their hours of operation and information.
All comments and suggestions about Santa Monica Beach are welcome and helpful!
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Creation Station, dance class review
What: Creation Station
They offer classes in dance, music and movement, and karate.
Where: 11239 Ventura Blvd. #206, Studio City, CA 91604
(818)509-8888
http://www.creationstationstudiocity.com
There are other locations in Canoga Park and Culver City, although they are not affiliated
with the Studio City location.
When: Classes are offered Monday - Saturday at all different times.
Who: 18 months - 12 years for numerous types of classes.
Mama of L.A. Review:
What can I say, I LOVE the Creation Station. After experiencing way too many boring mommy & me classes (for both my daughter and I), the Creation Station is the first that is a total hit! I enrolled my daughter in a "Happy Feet" dance class just before she turned 18 months. The class is for 18 month - 2 years and my daughter was SO shy compared to the other kids. For the first few classes she clung to me and stared in awe as the kids danced with toys, spun around on a parachute, chased after bubbles and sang along to "wheels in the bus". And then, one day, my daughter showed up to class and started dancing along with the others. She now listens to the teacher when she says to "turn turn turn" and "kick and "march" and "point your toes" and even runs around our house yelling out dance moves (my favorite of which is wiggle wiggle wiggle).
The Creation Station class is not just about dance, it teaches kids valuable lessons as well. They learn to share toys, put them away when asked, and follow instructions. My favorite part of the class is when each student goes to the front of the room, one by one, and performs a task the teacher asks of them. Usually a turn, followed by "jumping" over little toys. When they are finished, they receive a big round of applause. It is amazing to watch each child as a huge smile spreads across their face, the confidence boost is huge!
This class is a wonderful way to watch your child grow as she/he has a blast with other kids as they dance, sing along to songs, and play with fun interactive toys. And, as an added bonus, the parents I have experienced are great too!
extra tips: If you can go during the week, it is worth it! Saturdays are really full and the room gets a little hot.
Call to schedule a free trial class.
They offer classes in dance, music and movement, and karate.
Where: 11239 Ventura Blvd. #206, Studio City, CA 91604
(818)509-8888
http://www.creationstationstudiocity.com
There are other locations in Canoga Park and Culver City, although they are not affiliated
with the Studio City location.
When: Classes are offered Monday - Saturday at all different times.
Who: 18 months - 12 years for numerous types of classes.
Mama of L.A. Review:
What can I say, I LOVE the Creation Station. After experiencing way too many boring mommy & me classes (for both my daughter and I), the Creation Station is the first that is a total hit! I enrolled my daughter in a "Happy Feet" dance class just before she turned 18 months. The class is for 18 month - 2 years and my daughter was SO shy compared to the other kids. For the first few classes she clung to me and stared in awe as the kids danced with toys, spun around on a parachute, chased after bubbles and sang along to "wheels in the bus". And then, one day, my daughter showed up to class and started dancing along with the others. She now listens to the teacher when she says to "turn turn turn" and "kick and "march" and "point your toes" and even runs around our house yelling out dance moves (my favorite of which is wiggle wiggle wiggle).
The Creation Station class is not just about dance, it teaches kids valuable lessons as well. They learn to share toys, put them away when asked, and follow instructions. My favorite part of the class is when each student goes to the front of the room, one by one, and performs a task the teacher asks of them. Usually a turn, followed by "jumping" over little toys. When they are finished, they receive a big round of applause. It is amazing to watch each child as a huge smile spreads across their face, the confidence boost is huge!
This class is a wonderful way to watch your child grow as she/he has a blast with other kids as they dance, sing along to songs, and play with fun interactive toys. And, as an added bonus, the parents I have experienced are great too!
extra tips: If you can go during the week, it is worth it! Saturdays are really full and the room gets a little hot.
Call to schedule a free trial class.
Monday, February 16, 2009
A new resource for Mom's in Los Angeles
Welcome to the very beginning of a blog that is hopefully going to become a great resource for moms who live in Los Angeles.
As a mom of an almost 2 year old, I am constantly looking for new places for kids to go and explore, learn, laugh, eat, play, and everything else in between. And, as I experience these places around Los Angeles, I will give you my complete unbiased review. Of course, without other moms' opinions and comments, no review is complete, so I would love to hear any advice you would like to share!
As a mom of an almost 2 year old, I am constantly looking for new places for kids to go and explore, learn, laugh, eat, play, and everything else in between. And, as I experience these places around Los Angeles, I will give you my complete unbiased review. Of course, without other moms' opinions and comments, no review is complete, so I would love to hear any advice you would like to share!
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