Macaroni Kid
Rockville - Gaithersburg
Macaroni Kid   Editions

Hello Spring!


Hello and Happy Spring!  As most of you know, I am in the process of interviewing for a potential new job which has been all-consuming this week since it would be a career change for me.  I appreciate you all bearing with me and understanding why the newsletter came out tonight instead of this morning. 

This week I have included some fun crafts and recipes just in time for spring, and next week I will be sharing a few more of my favorite products with you!

Thanks so much to ...


Macaroni Kid's Search for The Fittest Family


Enter to be America's Fittest Family and Win a Trip To The Four Season!

Introducing Macaroni Kid's First Annual Search for America's Fittest Family!!!  The contest to recognize a family who will inspire us all…and it could be yours!

Has your family been taking more walks?  Hikes? Bike-rides?  Swims?  Do you find yourself turning the TV off and opting for outdoor activities?  Have you made it a habit to cook healthy, home-made meals together?  Does your family seek fun new challenges and adventures?  This is the contest for YOU!  Your family could be Macaroni Kid's America's Fittest Family, and ...

Jump into spring with a Craft - Birds Nest


This is a fun and EASY project for the kids.

Items needed: 1. Brown bags 2. Sticks from the yard. 3. Glue 4. Candy Eggs

Squash down the side of the brown paper bag. Glue sticks on the bag to form the look of a birds next. Let the bag dry and fill with eggs. I used candy eggs, but you can also use your colored Easter Eggs.

Enjoy!


What to do with all of those PEEPS?!


Easter Bunny Cars!

These are an adorable way to have some yummy treats with your kids.

Use icing as the "glue" to stick the bunny and pretzel into the Twinkie.

When you make them, just cut a small rectangle out of the top of the Twinkie about a third of the way back from the "front" of the car & then just stick the bunny down in an place a pretzel as the steering wheel.

Have fun!


A SPAtacular Time- Birthday Party Ideas


I recently had the pleasure of hosting a day of pampering for a delightful 7 year old birthday girl. The guest of honor and her friends had an amazing afternoon of indulgence with mini manicures, pedicures and delicious cotton candy facials, and designing their own pretty beaded bracelets.


Far and away the favorite activity of the day was Make Your Own Bath Salts. The girls enjoyed this craft so much that they were concocting one for themselves and then one or two more for their moms and sisters.


The bath ...


The Shakespeare Theatre Company Presents Petrushka


And YOUR chance to WIN a Family 4 Pack of tickets!

The Shakespeare Theatre Company will join three local leading arts organizations in presenting a festival celebrating world-renowned puppeteer Basil Twist. STC, Woolly Mammoth Theatre Company and the Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center at the University of Maryland will host several original productions by the puppeteer who has been described as "one of the most ambitious and imaginative...in contemporary puppetry."

First commissioned for the Lincoln Center for the Performing Arts, Petrushka premiered in 2001 and tells the tragic love story of three puppets at a Russian carnival. Petrushka, the clown ...


Stalled and needing encouragement!


My Medifast Weight Loss Journey

While I am SO proud of myself for losing 60lbs since August and for being able to fit into size 8 pants now...I am stuck on a plateau and definitely getting frustrated!  I refuse to give up...I WILL reach my goal weight!...but I needed to vent and since you all have been so fabulous at keeping me motivated and joining me along the way, I figured you might have some great words of wisdom to share.

For those just joining us, I have been going to the ...


This Week's Calendar:


March 22nd through March 26th

Thursday, March 22 - Nature Tots: Amphibians

Spend time with your child discovering the wonders of nature. A naturalist will help you explore a new nature topic through nature play, crafts, stories and hikes. Dress for the weather. Adult participation required
Where: Croydon Creek Nature Center, Rockville, MD
When: 10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
Who: Ages 2-5.
How: To register, call 240-314-8770.
Cost: Residents $6, non-residents $7.

Thursday, March 22 - Can We Talk? Speaking Up for Your Children to Help them Succeed (English and Spanish)

Developed for parents by the MCPS Parent Advisory Council, this workshop offers information on how to talk effectively with teachers and principals and advocate for your children. Separate workshops will be presented in English and Spanish.
Where: A. Mario Loiederman MS, 12701 Goodhill Rd., Silver Spring 20906
When: 7:00 PM - 8:30 PM
Who: All parents welcome.
How: Register online or call 301-517-5940
Cost: Free!  Child care services provided.

Thursday, March 22 - Meadowside Movies by the Fire: Caterpillar and Polliwog

Spend an evening around Meadowside's campfire ring to enjoy a tasty treat and a short film. We'll supply marshmallows and graham crackers, you bring your chocolate of choice, and we'll make s'mores!
Where: Meadowside Nature Center, Rockville
When: 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Who: Ages 3+
How: To register call 301-924-4141 or register online.
Cost: $3 (Please register and pay for all participants.)

Friday, March 23 - Groovy Nate

Come see Groovy Nate in his original family fun show.
Where: White Flint Mall, Centre Court
When: 10:30 AM
Who: Ages 1-6. 
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free

Saturday, March 24 - Saturday Morning at The National Theatre

  • 3/24: Banjos and Juggling and Art- Oh My!
  • 3/31: Nana Malaya: A Song, A Story, A Dance
Where: The National Theatre in Washington, DC
When: 9:30 AM (Second show at 11am)
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, March 24 - Owls, Hawks & Eagle Lunchtime and Talk

Observe Meadowside's hawk, owl, vulture, and bald eagle during their feeding time and ask questions! Speak with a Naturalist about birds of prey, and learn some of the stories about the raptors on exhibit. These talks begin at the Raptor Walkway behind the Nature Center
Where: Meadowside Nature Center, Rockville
When: 12:00 PM - 12:30 PM (Also on 4/3, 4/4, 4/5, and 5/19.)
Who: Ages 2+.
How: No registration required
Cost: Free!

Saturday, March 24 - Family Geocaching Adventure on the Farm

Modern-day treasure hunting happens right here in our parks! Geocaches are hidden containers that you track using GPS units. Learn how to use a GPS unit and spend the day on a geocaching adventure around the Agricultural History Farm Park. We'll be hiking, so long pants and sturdy shoes are recommended. If you don't have a GPS unit, one will be provided.
Where: Agricultural History Farm Park 18400 Muncaster Rd. Derwood, MD 20855
When: 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Who: Ages 8+
How: Please register and pay for all participants.  To register call 301-924-4141 or register online.
Cost: $10

Saturday, March 24 - Signs of Spring Night Hike and Campfire

Enjoy a hike into the forest at dusk to look and listen for signs of spring. After the hike, we'll gather around the campfire to enjoy a campfire treat.
Where: Croydon Creek Nature Center, 852 Avery Road, Rockville, MD 
When: 7:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Who: All ages
How: To register, call 240-314-8771
Cost: $4 for residents, $5 for non-residents
For more info: Visit the website

Monday, March 26 - Special Education: Parents as Advocates and the Family-School Partnerships (part 4 of 4)

Learn about the special education process and how to advocate for your child. Topics include the Individualized Education Act, Individualized Education Program (IEP), resolving issues, community resources and support. Learn, network, and share tips with other parents. This is the first of a series of four Parent E.A.S.E. workshops facilitated by the Montgomery County Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health.
Where: Wheaton HS, 12601 Dalewood Dr., Silver Spring, 20906
When: 6:30 PM - 8:30 PM
Who: All parents welcome
How: Register online or call 301-517-5940
Cost: Free! Childcare services also provided for free!

Plan Ahead:


March 28th through April 6th

Wednesday, March 28 - WFamily Fun Day

Join us for themed activities, stories, songs, crafts and more!
Where: In front of Macy's, lower level 7101 Democracy Boulevard, Bethesda
When: 10:30 AM (Every 2nd & 4th Wednesday)
Who: Best for ages 6 and under.
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free

Friday, March 30 - Grandkids and Me: Radical Raptors

Looking for a fun way to spend time with your grandchildren? Create memories while participating in fun natural and cultural history programs with activities such as hikes, games, crafts, and more. Bring the grandkids to explore and admire some of Meadowside's resident raptors up close, and participate in games and activities to learn about these amazing hunters. In the evening we'll roast hotdogs and s'mores over a campfire for dinner.
Where: Meadowside Nature Center, Rockville
When: 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM
Who: Ages 6-12.
How: To register call 301-924-4141 or register online.  Grandchildren sign up; grandparents are free!
Cost: $20

Sunday, April 1 - Bunny Tea at Kentlands Mansion

Hop on over to Kentlands Mansion’s newest event, the Bunny Tea. Little ones, along with a parent, are invited to bring their favorite stuffed bunny to an afternoon of tea, sandwiches, fruits, scones, and desserts in the elegant surroundings of this beautiful, century-old estate.  Earl Grey and fruit teas will be served, and lemonade will be available upon request.  A photo opportunity will be available with a special guest. 
Where: Kentlands Mansion is located 320 Kent Square Road in Gaithersburg.
When: 1:30 PM - 3:30 PM
Who: Everyone welome
How: Reservations are required, and may be made with cash, check, Visa, MasterCard, and Discover Card.  For reservations please call 301-258-6425.
Cost: Admission is $20 per person for adults and $15 for children ages 12 and under.

Tuesday, April 3 - Tiny Talon Tales

Children will spread their wings as they listen to stories of raptors and see them come alive. Listen to a raptor-themed story, meet Meadowside's own raptors, and make a craft to take home.
Where: Meadowside Nature Center, Rockville
When: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM (Also on 5/8)
Who: Ages 3-5
How: To register call 301-924-4141 or register online.
Cost: $5

Wednesday, April 4 - Winter Little Tots @ Rio

The Little Tots series at Washingtonian Center features different children's entertainers, merchant specials, arts & crafts, raffles and more.
  • 4/4: The Eric Energy Show
 
Where: At the Washingtonian Center in the atrium of the RIO Center.
When: 10:30 AM
Who: Everyone!
How: Just show up
Cost: FREE
For more info: visit the website  

Wednesday, April 4 - Story Time with Ms. Jazmine

Join us for exciting stories and songs with Ms. Jazmine!
Where: White Flint Mall, North Bethesda, MD
When: 10:30 AM - 11:15 AM (1st and 3rd Wednesdays each month)
Who: Ages 1-6.
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free!

Thursday, April 5 - 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 through June 2012)
Who: Preschool aged
How: Just show up!  Pay at the door.
Cost: $3 per child.  Adults are free.
For more info: For more information call 301-258-6394 or visit the website.

Friday, April 6 - Cabin John Mall Kids Day

A great new children's entertainer at each event!  Plus great disounts throughout Cabin John Mall.
Where: Located in the Atrium of Cabin John Mall, Potomac, MD
When: 10:30 AM - 11:30 AM (1st & 3rd Friday each month)
Who: Everyone welcome
How: Just show up!
Cost: Free!
For more info: All activities subject to change without notice. When Montgomery County Public Schools are closed due to inclement weather, Cabin John Kids activities will be canceled.

My Macaroni


Check out what I consider to be one of the best features of Macaroni Kid...

My Macaroni, as a subscriber you have the ability to check off events that interest you and then will be able to generate a weekly calendar/schedule of events and activities that you don't want to miss out on.  You can print it and hang it on your fridge or toss it in your purse.  It is a great way to keep track of all the events you do not want to miss, or to share with friends, grandparents or childcare providers so you can all plan a playdate ...


Local Children's Theater Productions


Under construction...new shows will be added soon!

Kids Eat Free or For Less!


(Some deals are for discounted kids meals, or activity nights at local restaurants)

Be sure to call and confirm before heading to the restaurant - offers can change at any time!!  Most of these deals are not valid with any other promotion or discount.

Mondays:

  • Mama Lucia's Pasta Night - Order one pasta entree regular price and get a second for $4 Dine In or Carryout 5-10pm (Rockville, Bethesda, Olney, Frederick & Silver Spring locations)
  • Ambrosia Grill - Buy 2 entrees and get 1 kids meal free 5-9pm 
  • Eggspectations - 1 free kids meal with purchase of adult entree (Silver Spring)The Stained Glass Pub (Silver Spring ...

Thanks to some of our fabulous Site Sponsors!


SPONSORS:

  


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 or low cost weekly story times or open gyms.  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].  Also, since we're heading into summer, you may want to call and confirm these as several ...


Macaroni Kid Saves


Please share your favorites with us!

Special Promotion Codes:

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

Daily Deals:

Mamapedia

Eversave

Socially Ideal

Groupon

Gazette Daily Deal

Living Social

Certifikid

Online Coupon Sites:

http://www.retailmenot.com

http://www.6pm.com

If you own a local business and would like to offer our readers a discount, please e-mail me at [email protected] with the details.  If you are a subscriber, please add your discount codes in the comments section.

*We try our best to make sure these codes are current, but cannot take responsibility since ...


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