Macaroni Kid
Rockville - Gaithersburg
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Happy Tuesday!


Be sure to click "Read More" to see if you're a WINNER!

FIRST A NOTE ABOUT WINNING PRIZES FROM MAC KID ROCKVILLE-GAITHERSBURG.  Please take a moment to read this!!!   I work very hard at bringing you great giveaways every week, but I have noticed that while tons of you enter the giveaways, a lot of you forget to read this section the next week to see if you have won.  I post the winner's info here and on our facebook page.  Once the winners are posted in the newsletter, you have 48 hours to e-mail me to claim your prize.  If ...


Tips For Keeping Your Tots Well


Well, it's that time of the year again. When the cold and flu bugs are running rampant and spreading like wildfire.  So, how do we fight these ever-pervasive little monsters that plague our children's bodies with aches, chills, coughs, fevers and a slew of other symptoms?

These are just a few practical, every-day tips, that may help save a few missed school (and work) days for your family.

1.  Wash, wash, wash - yes,  I know.  We have all heard it a million times, but it is true.  One ...


Playful Penguins


Fun and Yummy Snack

 These are so cute and easy... and the kids will love making them!  

Ingredients:

Dates 

Cream cheese

Cheddar cheese 

Chocolate jimmies or mini chocolate chips

Directions:  Slice dates open but not all the way in half and fill with cream cheese. Cut cheddar cheese into triangle pieces for feet and beak. Add your jimmies or mini chocolate chips for the eyes. Yummy!

 


School Open House Tips


And we want to hear from you!

My challenge for you in the new year is to invest some time and to do your homework in finding out about your options before you place your child on a waiting list for a potential school or daycare.  Most schools offer an opportunity to visit classrooms, meet teachers, and to spend a bit of time in the space your child will call home for several hours or several days week.  Preschool is not just preschool, school is not just school, and the programs offered are as varied as the ...

Mac Kid Rockville's Pick of the Week!


Your Chance to Win a Rockville Rewards Card!!

The Rockville Chamber of Commerce recently launched the Rockville Rewards program to help shoppers save money on everyday purchases, raise funds for non-profits to combat increased community need, and generate support for local business.  

Rockville area consumers can buy a $25 Rockville Rewards card from one of 15 area non-profits and show the card at participating business for a discount. The card is valid through June 30. Everyday Rewards deals are listed on the Rockville Rewards website. 

In addition to the everyday deals, there are weekly deals featuring more substantial ...


Work With Us!


Sponsorships, giveaways and more...

Want to see your product or business listed as a Mac Kid Rockville Pick of the Week?

We love to tell our readers about the best kid and family-friendly products we find out about!  If you'd like us to evaluate your product and see if it is something we want to review, please send Lani an e-mail at [email protected] to get our shipping address and find out more.

If you know of a product or business you would like to recommend, please let us both know so ...


Macaroni Kid Saves


Please share your favorites with us!

Special Promotion Codes:

* MarVa Tots'n Teens - Save $20 on your Spring session fee when you pay in full and mention Macaroni Kid

*Rejuvenite Pillows - 25% off

*ManCave meats- Save 20% by using code: "mancavemacaroni"

*Mabel's Labels - save 5% using code "macaronikid5"

Daily Deals:

Mamapedia

Eversave

Socially Ideal

Groupon

Gazette Daily Deal

Plum District

Living Social

Certifikid

Online Coupon Sites:

http://www.retailmenot.com

http://www.couponcabin.com

http://www.keycode.com

http://www.redplum.com

http://www.simplythebestcoupons.com

http://www.6pm.com

Free daily samples:

www.allyou ...

This Week's Calendar:


February 4th through February 21st

Friday, February 4 through Sunday, February 20 - The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee

Valuable lessons of winning and losing are explored in comedic fashion in Damascus Theatre Company’s production of The 25th Annual Putman County Spelling Bee, with music and lyrics by William Finn and book by Rachel Sheinkin.  Spelling Bee is a hilarious tale of overachievers’ angst chronicling the experience of six adolescent outsiders vying for the spelling championship of a lifetime. The show’s Tony Award winning creative team has created the unlikeliest of hit musicals about the unlikeliest of heroes: a quirky cast of outsiders for whom a spelling bee is the one place where they can stand out and fit in at the same time.
Where: The Arts Barn 311 Kent Square Road, Gaithersburg
When: 8:00 PM (Show is at 8pm on Fridays and Saturdays and at 2pm on Sundays)
Who: This show is recommended for audiences aged 17 and older.
How: For more information and tickets call 301-258-6394 or visit online at www.gaithersburgmd.gov/artsbarn.
Cost: $18 Nonresidents / $16 City of Gaithersburg Residents

Saturday, February 5 through Sunday, March 13 - Perseus Bayou

Move over Percy Jackson, Perseus Bayou’s in town! To save his beloved homeland, Percy must journey to the edge of the known world, past giant alligators and swamp ghosts, to battle the evil snake-headed Medusa. This Helen Hayes Award-winning musical sets the Greek myth of Perseus in the Louisiana bayou for an epic, magical adventure.
Where: Imagination Stage 4908 Auburn Avenue, Bethesda, MD 20814
When: 1:30 PM ((Multiple days & show times))
Who: Ages 6+
How: Buy tickets online
Cost: $10-$22
For more info: Visit the website or call (301)280-1660. 

Tuesday, February 15 - My First Little House: Sugar Snow

Laura and the Ingalls family look forward to late winter for maple sugaring. Learn about the process of maple sugaring through Laura’s eyes, then experience it first-hand at Meadowside, complete with a sweet taste of real maple syrup! Naturalist: Lisa Droubi
Where: Meadowside Nature Center, Rockville
When: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Who: Ages 3-6
How: To register call 301-924-4141 or register online. Program #126821.
Cost: $5

Tuesday, February 15 - No Dragons on My Quilt

Quilts provide both comfort and warmth, and are beautiful and fun to make. We’ll read a story about quilts, and then make quilt squares to take home. Wear old clothes! Naturalist: Sandy Staples.
Where: Meadowside Nature Center, Rockville
When: 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Who: Ages 3-6
How: To register call 301-924-4141 or register online.  Program #126759.
Cost: $5

Wednesday, February 16 through Monday, February 21 - Disney on Ice: Princess Wishes

"Witness the magic" as Ariel, Cinderella, Belle, Snow White, Sleeping Beauty, Jasmine and Mulan make their wishes come true in a collection of celebrated tales told through artistic skating and acrobatics.  With the help of the magical pixie Tinker Bell, the Disney Princesses embark on an adventure to find their heart’s fondest wish.  Ariel dreams of a life above the sea, Mulan finds her inner strength, Jasmine discovers a whole new world and Snow White finds her true love.  Cinderella, Belle and Sleeping Beauty also find happiness in this sure-to-please ice show.
Where: Verizon Center, 601 F St., NW, Washington, DC
When: n/a
Who: Everyone
How: Buy tickets online.
Cost: $14.50-$85

Wednesday, February 16 - Tyke Hike

Come explore the bustling world around the Nature Center. Take a nature mini-hike, and make a craft.
Where: Meadowside Nature Center, Rockville
When: 10:30 AM - 11:15 AM
Who: Ages 2-4.
How: Register online.
Cost: $5

Wednesday, February 16 - Summer Opportunities Fair

Explore summer opportunities for your children in kindergarten through Grade 12. Local and regional providers will be on hand to talk about summer camps, programs, and activities. Meet program staff, pick up applications, and get information on financial assistance.
Where: Richard Montgomery HS, 250 Richard Montgomery Dr., Rockville 20852
When: 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Who: All Montgomery County parents. 
How: Register online or call 301-517-5940
Cost: Free!  Child care services provided.

Thursday, February 17 - Tiny Tot Walk: Whoo-ray for Owls

There are 19 species of owls that make their home in North America. Join us during the owl nesting season to learn more about these nocturnal creatures.  Participants will spend time outdoors, so please dress for the weather. Adult participation is required.
When: 10:30 AM - 11:15 AM
Who: Ages 2-3.5
How: Registration suggested - call 240-314-8770.
Cost: $6 residents, $7 non-residents

Thursday, February 17 - Preschool Songs & Stories

Back by popular demand, the Arts Barn will once again host an exciting and enriching cultural arts program for children. Preschool Songs and Stories gives three to five year olds and their parents or guardians the opportunity to explore the arts through singing, dancing and active listening to story books.
Where: The Arts Barn, Gaithersburg’s premiere cultural arts facility, is located at 311 Kent Square Road, Gaithersburg.
When: 11:00 AM - 11:45 AM (1st and 3rd Thursdays every month)
Who: Preschool aged
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free!
For more info: For more information call 301-258-6394 or visit the website.

Thursday, February 17 - Animals in Winter

How do animals cope with the change of seasons? What happens to animals as the weather gets cold and the days become shorter? Join us as we explore how different animals adjust to winter through hibernation, migration, and adaptation. Naturalist: Glenn Rice
Where: Meadowside Nature Center, Rockville
When: 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Who: 3-6 years
How: Register online.
Cost: $5

Friday, February 18 - Clifford the Big Red Dog @ Toy Kingdom

Curious George is swinging into Toy Kingdom at Rockville Town Center!  Bring your camera and lots of smiles!
Where: Toy Kingdom, 36 Maryland Ave., Unit C, Rockville, MD
When: 2:00 PM - 4:00 PM (Also on 2/20 from1-3pm)
Who: Everyone welcome!
How: Just show up!
Cost: FREE

Saturday, February 19 - Great Backyard Bird Count

Participate in this annual event and help the Cornell Lab of Ornithology with their ongoing bird research. You will learn common backyard birds and how to identify them and then go on a hike to practice your skills. We will count the birds that we see and submit our results. Be a part of this important wildlife census.
Where: Croydon Creek Nature Center, Rockville
When: 9:30 AM - 10:30 AM
Who: All ages
How: Register by calling 240-314-8770.
Cost: $2 residents, $3 non-residents.
For more info: Visit the website.

Saturday, February 19 - Discover Engineering Family Day

The National Building Museum and the National Engineers Week Foundation invite you to debunk the myths of engineering and discover how professional engineers turn an idea into reality.  Kick off and celebrate National Engineers Week by participating in this free, hands-on and fun-filled festival!  Make slime, explore electricity, experience a Lego® Robot race, and much more! This year see a larger than life Pop Fly and make your very own to take home with Design Squad.
Where: National Building Museum, Washington, DC
When: 10:00 AM - 4:30 PM
Who: Program and activities are most appropriate for children ages 5 to 13 with adult supervision.
How: Rsvp online.
Cost: Discover Engineering Family Day is a FREE, drop-in program. $5 donation suggested.
For more info: For more info, click here.

Saturday, February 19 through Sunday, February 20 - Lakeforest Mall Summer Camp Expo

Come to Lakeforest and learn valuable information on local summer programs for your child. Speak one-on-one with summer camp and program providers.  Pick up a Camp Expo Passport at Lakeforest Guest Services or at the Kidgits Club table, visit with and get a stamp from each exhibitor, fill out an entry form, and you are eligible to win a $500 Simon Giftcard*. Kidgits Club members receive a special giveaway- sign up at the Expo! *Void where prohibited.  18 and older.
Where: Lakeforest Mall, Gaithersburg, MD
When: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Who: Everyone
How: Just show up
Cost: Free

Monday, February 21 - Toy Story 3

Shaare Torah will be hosting a special viewing of Toy Story 3. Cost is $5 per child if reserved in advance and includes a "Movie Snack Pack" with juice box, goldfish crackers, fruit snacks and a "special surprise." There will be a parents lounge set up next door to the movie screening with coffee for the parents, too.
Where: Shaare Torah in the Lakelands (1409 Main Street, Gaithersburg)
When: 10:00 AM
Who: Everyone welcome
Cost: $5 per child if reserved in advance, or at the door: $3 for the movie only, and limited snack packs will be available for purchase for $3 extra (so you save $1 by reserving in advance on both the movie and snack pack).

Monday, February 21 - Discover Strathmore

Always a favorite, the Discover Strathmore festival is back for another year of family fun in a terrific showcase featuring performers, music, workshops, sample classes, fine art and roving entertainment throughout the Mansion and Music Center. Part of Strathmore’s season-long Guitar Festival, celebrating the most influential instrument of the century.
Where: Strathmore, Music Center at Strathmore, 5301 Tuckerman Lane  North Bethesda, MD 20852
When: 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Who: Everyone welcome
How: Just show up.
Cost: Free

Plan Ahead:


February 22nd through April 16th

Tuesday, February 22 - Season for Sugar Snow - Grandkids & Me Event

The sap is running in our maple trees and that means it is maple sugaring season. Come with your grandchild to learn about maple trees, the process of maple sugaring, and taste some sweet syrup. Then we’ll whip up some delicious maple syrup recipes to enjoy, and a make a maple craft to take home.  Naturalist: Lisa Droubi
Where: Meadowside Nature Center, Rockville
When: 3:30 PM - 5:00 PM
Who: Ages 6-9
How: To register call 301-924-4141 or register online.
Cost: $15; Sign up the grandkids; grandparents are free!

Wednesday, February 23 - Knock, Knock - All About Woodpeckers!

What is that “knock-knock-knocking” in the woods? Many of us have heard a woodpecker’s distinct sound, and several kinds of woodpeckers can be found in the woods around the nature center! Let’s read a story, learn about these fascinating birds, and make a fun woodpecker-friendly feeder to take home. Naturalist: Lisa Droubi
Where: Meadowside Nature Center, Rockville
When: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
Who: Ages 3-6.
How: Registration: 301-924-4141 or click here.  Program #126823.
Cost: $5  

Wednesday, February 23 - Go Green Lecture: Coyotes in Maryland

Co-sponsored by the Nature Center, the Friends of Rock Creek Environment (FORCE) and the City of Rockville's Environmental Management Division, this lecture series offers easy ways you can make a positive impact on your environment. Advance registration required.

Learn about the natural history of coyotes, their impact on the environment and strategies for living with these wild creatures.
When: 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Who: Ages 16+.
How: Registration suggested - call 240-314-8770.
Cost: FREE

Thursday, February 24 - Maple Sugaring

After reading a maple syrup mystery together, we’ll explore the process of the sap of maple trees and how it’s used to make this sweet treat. See if you can pick out the real maple syrup in our taste test! Naturalist: Sandy Staples
Where: Meadowside Nature Center, Rockville
When: 1:30 PM - 2:30 PM
Who: Ages 3-6
How: To register call 301-924-4141 or register online.  Program #126761.
Cost: $5

Saturday, February 26 - Baby Bazaar

Shop for deals, new and resale products and services. Vendors will have something for every bargain shopper.
Where: Lake Marion Community Center  8821 E Village Ave, Montgomery Village, MD
When: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM
Who: Everyone welcome
How: Just show up
Cost: Free

Saturday, February 26 - Saturday Morning at The National Theatre

  • 2/26- Tom Crowl and his sassy friends
  • 3/5- Comedian Uncle Ty-Rone and a box full of fun!
Where: The National Theatre in Washington, DC
When: 9:30 AM (9:30 & 11am shows)
Who: All families welcome
How: Seating is limited!! Tickets are Required, and are Distributed Without Charge one Half-Hour Prior to Performance, on a First-Come First-Served basis, one ticket only, to each person standing in line. Children must be accompanied by an adult who remains present for the entire performance.
Cost: FREE!
For more info: Saturday Morning at the National has been sponsored exclusively since its inception by
Marriott International, Inc. and The J. Willard and Alice S. Marriott Foundation, Inc. Visit the website.

Saturday, February 26 - The Great Zucchini & Open Play

JoinThe Great Zucchini, Macaroni Kid Rockville and My Gym Kentlands as we raise money for a toddler in need.  The Great Zucchini will perform from 5-5:45pm, followed by open play until 6:30pm. The Great Zucchini is Washington's funniest and most magical preschool & kindergarten entertainer!  Join us as he performs a colorful magic show where every child is a star and guaranteed to laugh! Experience the excitement of the children when they get to learn a magic trick at the end of show!
Where: My Gym Kentlands, 620 Center Point Way, Gaithersburg
When: 5:00 PM - 6:30 PM
Who: Everyone welcome! 
How: Buy tickets online or at the door (space permitting).  We'll have a list of names and how many tickets you bought at the door so there is no need to print anything out. 
Cost: $10 per ticket (everyone needs a ticket regardless of age). 
For more info: As of tonight, there are about 45 tickets remaining.  Please buy your tickets online to ensure you'll be able to join us!

Saturday, February 26 - Fundraiser @ Potomac Pizza Kentlands

Potomac Pizza Kentlands will be donating 20% of the proceeds from all dine in and carry out orders to help cover Brady's medical bills!  If you are attending our Great Zucchini fundraiser at My Gym Kentlands, Potomac Pizza is just a few doors away.
Where: Potomac Pizza Kentlands 625 Center Point Way, Gaithersburg, MD 20878
When: 5:00 PM - 9:00 PM
Who: Everyone welcome!
How: Just head over to Potomac Pizza and dine in or carry out between 5 and 9pm on the 26th.
Cost: The cost of your food.

Sunday, February 27 - Disney Live! Mickey's Magic Show

In a captivating combination, favorite Disney characters join a professional illusionist live on stage in a performance that will excite and delight children of all ages. From Feld Entertainment, the producers of Disney On Ice, Disney Live! presents Mickey’s Magic Show brings audiences into a world where Disney magic takes on a whole new meaning.  
Where: Patriot Center, Fairfax, VA
When: 12:30 PM (2nd show at 3:30pm)
Who: Everyone
How: Tickets will be available through all Ticketmaster outlets including the Patriot Center box office, or via Phonecharge at 703-573-SEAT
Cost: $50.00, $33.00 and $22.00

Monday, February 28 - BiblioBebé: Storytime in Spanish

Come join us for storytimes in Spanish!  Our themed storytimes are a wonderful way for you to introduce your child to Spanish.  Don't speak Spanish?  No worries-- come along anyway.
  • Feb. 28: Love
Where: Kentlands Carriage House, 321 Kent Square Rd, Gaithersburg, MD 20878
When: 10:00 AM - 10:30 AM
Who: Ages 0-5 (siblings welcome)
How: We kindly ask that participants RSVP.  Please register here.
Cost: Free!

Friday, March 4 through Saturday, March 5 - Harlem Globetrotters

The Harlem Globetrotters 2011 “4 Times the Fun” World Tour is coming to Baltimore!  Always full of surprises, this year’s tour features the team’s latest and greatest trick, a “4-Point Shot” from behind the 3-point line and in front of the half court line, something that has never been done before in the game of basketball!
Where: Patriot Center & Verizon Center
When: 2:00 PM (Also at 7 PM)
Who: Everyone
How: Tickets are available online at www.harlemglobetrotters.com
Cost: $25.60 - $138.70 (VIP)
For more info: Mac Kid readers can enjoy a special offer by entering the promo code MACKID online when ordering tickets to receive $7 off of select tickets.

Enter to win five tickets here.  Please note that the tickets are good for the noon show on 3/4 @the Patriot Center and must be redeemed at the box office three days before the show.

Saturday, March 5 - MCPOM Semi-Annual Children's Clothing & Equipment Sale

Clothing (Preemie to Size 7+), strollers, high chairs, Pack n Plays, bathtubs, furniture, toys, books & DVDs, childproofing, supplies and more. PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent recalls, we will no longer be offering cribs for sale. 
Where: Roberto Clemente Middle School, 18808 Waring Station Road, Germantown, MD 20874
When: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM (Closed from 11:30-noon)
Who: Everyone welcome
How: Just show up
Cost: Cash and checks accepted. $2/adult admission charge at door.  MCPOM is a not-for-profit organization.
For more info: Due to space constraints and safety concerns, shoppers may not bring strollers into the sale.

For pictures and more information, call 301-419-8008 or send an email to [email protected]

Friday, March 11 through Sunday, March 13 - Totswap Consignment Sale

Do you have toys, and books, and clothes, and shoes, and well, even more toys laying around the house just gathering dust?  Here is your chance to sell them and make some cash.  Or, if you need to shop for great, gently-worn items for about 50% less than retail (or more)...Totswap is the answer!
Where: Montgomery County fairgrounds
When: 9:00 AM - 7:00 PM (times vary by day.)
Who: Everyone welcome
How: Just show up to shop.  To consign, visit the website and register.
Cost: Free admission.  Nominal registration fee to consign.
For more info: Visit the Totswap Website!  Watch for our Totswap Gift Certificate giveaway next week!

Thursday, April 7 through Sunday, April 24 - TOTEM - Cirque du Soleil

TOTEM traces the fascinating journey of the human species from its original amphibian state to its ultimate desire to fly. The characters evolve on a stage evoking a giant turtle, the symbol of origin for many ancient civilizations. Inspired by many founding myths, TOTEM illustrates, through a visual and acrobatic language, the evolutionary progress of species. Somewhere between science and legend TOTEM explores the ties that bind Man to other species, his dreams and his infinite potential.
Where: Baltimore, under the Grand Chapiteau, Westport / Waterfront
When: 8:00 PM (times vary by date.)
Who: Everyone
How: Buy tickets here.
Cost: Adults: $45-$200+; Children 2-12: $28.50-$150+; Students 13+ with student ID, and Seniors 65+: $39.50-$200+
For more info: Visit the website.  Enter to win a family four pack of tickets by clicking the TOTEM box on the right hand side of the page.

Saturday, April 16 through Sunday, April 17 - Imagination Movers & Choo Choo Soul

Some of your Disney favorites are coming to Frederick!  Join the Imagination Movers with special guest Nina, and Choo Choo Soul for a great time!  Tickets are on sale now!
Where: Weinberg Center for the Arts, 20 West Patrick Street, Frederick, MD
When: n/a
Who: Everyone!
How: Buy tickets here.
Cost: $22.50-$37.50
For more info: Watch for a family four pack ticket giveaway in the next few weeks!

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Weekly Open Gyms & Storytimes


A great, free or low cost way to keep your kids entertained

Do you need to get the kids out of the house? Too hot, or cold, or rainy to go outside to play? Here is a list of local businesses that offer FREE weekly story times, as well as low cost open gym or play.  I suggest arriving early as these events are very popular and fill up quickly.  If you find any of these need updating, please let me know right away at [email protected].

Mondays:


Kids Eat Free or Cheap in Rockville & Gaithersburg


Be sure to call and confirm before heading to the restaurant - offers can change at any time

Tuesdays:

  • Austin Grill - kids eat free
  • Denny's - Kids eat free after 4pm
  • Chevy's Fresh Mex - Kids eat free and from 5-9pm you can see Chuckles the Clown!
  • Lone Star Steakhouse
  • Silver Diner- Kids Club Members get a free milk or yogurt shake between 5 and 8pm.  They also offer a different theme and activity or entertainer each week.

Wednesdays:

  • Chick-fil-A - kids eat free
  • Lebanese Taverna
  • Cheeburger Cheeburger - 1/2 price kids' meal with purchase of an adult entree.  Dine in only.

Fridays:

  • Chicken Out - kids eat free

Saturdays ...


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