Brown Girl Gumbo

Microsoft Offers Free STEM Summer Camps for Students

April 24, 2018

If you’ve always wanted to introduce your kids to coding, you’re in luck.

This summer, Microsoft is back with free STEM-centric summer camps to encourage children to embrace the digital skills to excel today and into the tech-driven future.

Through workshops held at Microsoft stores across the country, Canada and Puerto Rico, kids (ages 6 and up) will receive hands-on education in coding, robotics, moviemaking and philanthropy.

The tech leader is offering five new YouthSpark curriculums each developed by education experts in the field and with input from local store associates to provide students with the real-world tools to prep them for careers of tomorrow.

Last week I got a sneak peek of some of the new sessions during a preview at the Microsoft flagship store in Manhattan.

Here’s a quick snapshot of what students and parents can expect:

Create a difference in your world
Have a budding philanthropist in your home? This curriculum supports the next generation of philanthropists by offering ways to use technology to do good in their community. Students will develop an actionable plan for a humanitarian effort of their choice and learn about the business of fundraising, volunteering and creating awareness for their cause.

Code a talking robot with Ohbot
Who doesn’t love robots? Your mini-me will fall head over heels for this eye-opening session. Ohbot is an expressive, programmable robot head that stands approximately eight inches tall, built with seven motors that tilt and turn the head and eyes and move its eyelids and lips. Over the course of this camp, students will apply computational thinking to learn how to bring Ohbot to life by coding its movements and speech.

Make your own movie with 3D and Mixed Reality
Encourage your movie buff to make her own movie with this course. Students will learn about several aspects of making movies, including character development, storyboarding, shooting, editing and sharing. They’ll also have access to Microsoft’s latest 3D drawing and movie-making technology with Mixed Reality Viewer and the Microsoft Photos app to create and interact in mixed reality, inviting friends and family to their Microsoft Store-hosted movie premiere at the end of the camp.

Minecraft coding – learn computer science with your favorite game
This session will blow your child’s mind. Grounded in key common core standards for K-12 computer science, this camp invites students into an inclusive and immersive project built around creating, exploring and learning code in Minecraft with the help of MakeCode. Students learn and practice new computer science concepts, such as events, coordinates, variables, and conditionals, and work toward receiving a YouthSpark Certificate, awarded at the end of the camp.

Beginners fun with computers and coding
The sooner we introduce our little ones to coding, the better. This workshop is great for students who have had little to no experience with computers and coding. Through fun and simple challenges, students as young as six will learn how computers and code work together and showcase their new skills by solving hands-on coding activities. They will also get the chance to turn the tables and teach parents how to complete a coding activity.

The camp consists of either one, two or four two-hour interactive sessions that will give students a fun head start on the digital skills and tools they’ll need to fuel their passions and achieve their professional goals—all in a safe and engaging environment.

Sessions begin in May and run through the end of August.

To join, register for summer camps today online or in person at your local Microsoft Store.

Have your kids ever taken a coding or robotics class?

‘The Little Red Fish’ Puppet Show Makes an Off-Broadway Splash

April 13, 2018

When it comes to children’s theater, there’s no place like New York City.

Throughout the years, I’ve taken my kids to countless shows on Broadway, off-Broadway and many somewhere in between. This past weekend, we made our way to Theatre Row where we caught the opening of “The Little Red Fish.”

Produced by the New York Children’s Theater and created by Puppet Kitchen, “The Little Red Fish” is an incredibly charming show that features and celebrates the beauty of puppetry.

Adapted from Taeeun Yoo’s popular Japanese children’s book of the same title, the spellbinding performance showcases a variety of magical puppetry including shadow puppets, string-puppets and carnival-like puppets.

Through masterful puppetry, the story unfolds of a young boy who brings his pet fish on a trip to the library with his grandfather. To his surprise, the fish disappears into the book, leaving him to travel through the whimsical, adventure-filled pages to follow his beloved pet.

From colorful staircases made out of books to pink dancing flamingos, “The Little Red Fish” will keep little ones entranced.

Jam-packed with funny moments, captivating puppetry and tender storytelling—all set to mesmerizing music and compelling sound effects—the 30-minute show is a treat for the entire family.

“The Little Red Fish” runs through April 29th at the Lion’s Theatre at Theatre Row, located 410 W. 42nd Street. Tickets start at $30.

What was the first live theater performance do you remember attending?

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Make Slime At Home with Karina Garcia’s Craft City Kits

April 9, 2018

If you have a child in the house between the ages of 6-12, chances are you’re pretty familiar with slime.

Both of my kids have been obsessed with this ooey-gooey concoction of glue, water and an activating substance for the past year. While store-bought, premade slime is fun and virtually mess-free, nothing gets them more excited than the DIY kind—because what kid doesn’t like to get their hands dirty—literally?

That’s why they were beyond thrilled when we received the Craft City Make-Your-Own Slime Kit for them to try.

As soon as my 8-year-old daughter saw the box, her happy meter hit an all-time high. “That’s Karina Garcia from YouTube,” she exclaimed. Right then, I knew she was in for an amusing afternoon.

After marveling at the box’s cover star whose known for her knack for kids’ crafts, she immediately ripped open the package and got busy.

The kit, which includes everything they’ll need to get slimey, is jam-packed with kid-friendly customizable add-ons. From glitter-flecked to glow-in-the-dark slime, Craft City makes creating unique blends safe and easy.

Plus, the instructions are super comprehensible and simple. Sure, we parents can oversee the slime-making process, but my kids didn’t require much assistance from me. Creating the slime by themselves gave them a confidence-boosting sense of independence that young kids crave.

If you’re looking for a fun and engaging way to get your kids off their tablets and enthusiastic about science, a DIY slime kit is the perfect project.

Check out the step-by-step slime-making process:

Craft City’s Make-Your-Own Slime Kit includes everything you need to make safe, kid-friendly slime.

My daughter couldn’t wait to cut open the slime kit and get started on making the slippery substance.

Thoroughly reading the instructions is the key to any successful at-home craft project. My daughter takes this step very seriously.

Glue is well, the glue, to making slime work. It gives it its unique consistency—so, measuring out the right amount is crucial.

My daughter measuring the activator like a mad scientist.

An up-close look at the putty that’s all the rage for the pre-teen set.

Voila! The final product. Can you see her oozing with excitement?

Craft City Make-Your-Own Slime Kit is available here, $20

Have your kids ever made at-home slime? Was it store-bought or made with household ingredients?

Category: Arts and Entertainment, Featured, Features, Gumbo Mix | 1 Comment

Giving Back: The Magic Behind Disney’s Social Outreach

April 5, 2018

Walt Disney World is the place where dreams come true and magical memories are made.

For families who are experiencing hardships like a child with a terminal illness, those memories are even more precious.

During my attendance at the 2018 Disney’s Social Media Moms Celebration, a mom-centric blogger conference, I learned just how much Disney does to help bring those special moments to life. While the company doesn’t tout its philanthropic work, it’s worthy of praise.

John Breckow, director of corporate citizenship at Walt Disney Parks & Resorts speaking about the company’s philanthropic efforts.

At the conference’s general sessions, John Breckow, director of corporate citizenship at Walt Disney Parks & Resorts shared a glimpse of what goes on “behind the magic” of Disney Parks’ social outreach. During his presentation, he shared accounts of how Disney’s charitable efforts have impacted and forever changed the lives of families around the world.

While all the stories were heartwarming tearjerkers, one stood out—the story of Richie, a young man who had been embraced by the Disney family throughout his life-threatening health journey. The way in which the company made his dreams come true is nothing short of amazing. From making him a coveted cast member to arranging an enchanting dance with Princess Belle, the compassion and grace he was shown was remarkable. Even though Richie eventually lost his battle, he touched so many lives within the Disney family and beyond.

John Breckow, director of corporate citizenship at Walt Disney Parks & Resorts with Richie at Disneyland.

Stories like Richie’s are what make Disney the brand so many have come to love and respect—myself included. In addition to personal stories of the company’s charitable efforts, Disney works with several nonprofits like Make-A-Wish® Foundation, Boys & Girls Clubs of America and Points of Light to bring a little magic to those in need.

Me adding a few finishing touches to a painting that will be part of mural donated by Disney to a local Boys & Girls Club during the 2018 Disney Social Media Moms Celebration.

In fact, Disney’s partnership with Make-A-Wish® America has granted more than 120,000 wishes since the program launched in 1981. With the help of Disney employees and Disney VoluntEARS, the company’s social outreach is expansive. From Hurricane Harvey relief efforts that raised more than $15 million to donating beautiful murals to local Boys & Girls Clubs, Disney gives back in countless ways and always with a bit of magic.

It’s not just about the fun theme parks, playful characters or other cool attractions, what matters is how people treat and help one another. I’ve always admired Disney as a company, but after attending the conference, my admiration has grown.

I’ve learned that Disney is not only a company committed to bringing joy to families globally, but also values its employees and wants to help spread pixie dust to as many people and places as possible.

When a brand that you respect pulls back the curtain and lets you inside their world, it’s a privilege that I don’t take for granted. Getting that behind-the-scenes look at the outstanding work they do to provide comfort, happiness and inspiration to families around the world is something that I’ll always cherish.

How do you give back to your community?

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Macy’s ‘Once Upon a Springtime’ Flower Show is the Stuff of Fairytales

April 3, 2018

Even though we just experienced a snowstorm in New York City yesterday, it is officially spring. If the unseasonably chilly weather has got you down, head over to Macy’s “Once Upon a Springtime,” Flower Show® for an instant pick-me up.

The beautiful blooms and pretty topiaries will surely put you in a springtime frame of mind.

For more than 70 years, Macy’s has delighted generations with fanciful florals. Every year the iconic store transforms into a lush and lavish space that keeps patrons coming back time and time again. This year’s display at New York’s flagship, Herald Square is no different. In fact, it’s more charming than ever.

With magical castles draped in colorful floral arrangements and gorgeous greenery cascading from the ceilings, you’ll be transported to an enchanted garden that’ll make you forget you’re in the city that never sleeps.

With storybook themes abound, this year’s Flower Show is one that people of all ages will enjoy. You’ll find noble knights, flower-breathing dragons, scary dungeons and other nods to fairytale folklore throughout the store—making it an experience you won’t soon forget.

Now until April 8^th, visitors can escape the hustle and bustle of the city and retreat into this blossoming oasis filled with lovely florals and plants. Simply put, walking into the store was a fragrant breath of fresh air. I took my kids this past Friday and they fell in love with all the displays and enjoyed the wondrous journey.

Check out some pics from our recent visit:

To find out what’s happening at Macy’s Herald Square Flower Show ®, be sure to head over to www.macys.com/social/flower-show/new-york/ or www.macys.com/events. The show is currently at their three flagship stores in Chicago, New York and San Francisco.

Have you ever attended a Macy’s Flower Show®? What’s your favorite flower?

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Sesame Place Becomes First Certified Autism Center Theme Park

April 2, 2018

April is National Autism Awareness month and Sesame Place has some great news to share.

Today, the nation’s only theme park based entirely on the award-winning show “Sesame Street,” in conjunction with the International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES), announced the completion of a staff-wide autism sensitivity and awareness training at the theme park.

Essentially, this news means that families with autistic children can find solace in knowing that they can visit this Pennsylvania-based park, located 30 minutes from Philadelphia and 90 minutes from New York City—and be in good hands without compromising the fun.

The completion designates Sesame Place as a Certified Autism Center (CAC) as distinguished by IBCCES, making it the first theme park to receive such a distinction.

Because of that certification, Sesame Place is required to provide ongoing training to ensure that team members have the requisite knowledge, skills, temperament, and expertise to interact with all families and children with special needs, specifically on the autism spectrum. Training takes place in the areas of sensory awareness, environment, communication, motor and social skills, program development, and emotional awareness as well as a comprehensive autism competency exam.

“As the first theme park in the world to complete the training and become a CAC, Sesame Place is better equipped to offer families inclusive activities for children with autism and other special needs,” Cathy Valeriano, Sesame Place park president, said in a release.

The theme park’s website will add a pre-planning sensory guide to help families map out their visit—considering their child’s specific needs and requirements. In addition, the theme park will add two sensory rooms, located on Sesame Island with adjustable lighting, and a comfortable seating area for guests to take a break.

Sesame Workshop has always been a leader in preschool education so it comes as no surprise that the company’s commitment to helping children grow smarter, stronger and kinder would also apply to its theme park. In fact, Sesame Workshop launched the “Sesame Street” and Autism: See Amazing in All Children initiative in 2015 and Julia, a Sesame Street Muppet with autism, made her debut—providing children with a character that helps them understand the condition better. Julia can also be seen in real life throughout the theme park greeting children eager to meet her.

Photo Courtesy Sesame Workshop

While I don’t have children on the autism spectrum, I am happy to learn that families who do will have a place where they can have fun with furry friends like Elmo, Big Bird, Abby Cadabby and the rest of the Sesame Street gang while enjoying rides like the brand-new Oscar’s Wacky Taxi rollercoaster (opening April 28), parades and other family-friendly activities.

While it’s always a sunny day at Sesame Street and Sesame Place, today the sun’s shining a little brighter.

Have you ever visited Sesame Place?

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Acrobuffos’ ‘Air Play’ is a Breathtaking Show for the Entire Family

April 2, 2018

This past Good Friday, I took my two kids (ages 8 and 4) to see “Air Play” at the New Victory Theater in the city.

Created and performed by the Acrobuffos, husband and wife team Seth Bloom and Christina Gelsone—the two portray curious young siblings on a circus-style journey of mind-blowing tricks and mesmerizing thrills all generated through the limitless splendor of air flow.

Air-Play-Acrobuffos-New-Victory-Theater-Florence-Montmare

Photo by Florence Montmare

The 60-minute show is a mix of comedy, aerodynamic science and nonstop “oohs and aahs.” Aimed at children age 5 and up, the performance had everything to keep kids of all ages entertained. From gigantic, bouncing balloons to on-stage confetti and Styrofoam-filled twisters triggered by the physics of air, the Acrobuffos know how to evoke a sense of wonder for all attendees. Plus, the show is jam-packed with engaging audience participation, creating a memorable afternoon.

Located in the heart of Times Square, the newly remodeled New Victory has been my family’s go-to spot for incredible live theater for children. Throughout the years, we’ve seen dozens of shows and they’re incredibly entertaining, educational and always fun.