Program-And-Tell: Nearly New Year’s Bash

new year's bash
So many shapes left behind at the community art table!

You’ve probably heard of New Year’s at noon programs (where you celebrate New Year’s Eve at noon for the midday crowd). But, since our regular family programs happen at 2:00pm on Sundays, we couldn’t exactly do that. We opted for a New Year’s Eve Eve celebration, with games and crafts. It ended with a mock ball drop and a bubble-filled dance party. Read on to learn what the activities were and feel free to share your own ideas in the comments!

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Program-And-Tell: Kids Craft Market

kids maker market
A child shows their grown-up their newly purchased perler bead creation.

In mid-December, I hosted our second-annual (and my first ever) Kids Craft Market. Kids signed up to “sell” their wares—be it origami animals or bracelets or “fake paper airplanes”—to other kids. Besides the general anxiety of worrying if people will show up, it’s one of the easiest programs I’ve planned. And it’s one of the most rewarding! Continue reading “Program-And-Tell: Kids Craft Market”

Birthday Books for Babies

I’m a little bit obsessed with board books these days. Maybe it’s because, as Betsy Bird claims, the board book is on the rise. Board books are so brilliant, and there’s such a narrow window to share them before children move on to bigger, longer books. I also think I’m experiencing a little bit of baby fever since both my brothers have children now… Speaking of which, it’s my newest niece’s birthday this month—she’s one!

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Coming Out to My 8-Year-Old Niece

My niece is coming to visit me next month. My boyfriend is moving in with me next month. Given the unique serendipity of these two occurrences, my sister-in-law, my niece, and I were forced into having what I’m going to refer to as the “Gay Uncle Talk.” My niece is 8 (almost 9). I wish I could have told her I was gay sooner. I just didn’t know how. Or when. But, mainly, I was scared.

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