Spring Happenings at the Parents Place in Marin
Parents Place in San Rafael has been a valuable resource for countless Marin County parents and families. This spring, they offer a wide variety of programs, from yoga for little ones and music time to workshops for new moms and dads and parents of spirited children. Here are a few of their offerings this season:
Yoga for Children (2 ½–5 years)
Yoga for the little ones! This ongoing series includes a playful interpretation of classical yoga poses, with songs, stories, movement, and quiet breath awareness practices for 2 ½- to 5-year-olds. Parent participation is optional, but supervision is required. This series gives kids an introduction to yoga that is both fun and educational and helps build concentration and mindfulness in preschool-aged children. Please bring a mat. With Juliana Birnbaum Fox, MA. Fridays, May 3 - 17, 11:00 - 11:45 am. $42 per child for three weeks; $21 for each sibling. Register here.
For Dads Only - Effective Fathering (all ages)
During this workshop, parent educator and coach Tom Limbert, MA will use his new book,Dad's Playbook: Wisdom for Fathers from the Greatest Coaches of All Times, as a framework for tackling the issues facing today's fathers. Tom will reveal how a father can walk the fine lines of discipline, respect, and support. You will discuss the values of listening, leading by example, staying in the moment, setting clear limits, and motivating your children. (Signed copies of Tom's book will also be available at a discount to attendees). Mon., May 6, 7:00 - 9:00 pm. Register here.
JAMaROO Music Time (9 months - 4 years)
This fun-packed class combines music, creative movement, and storytelling. Children will engage in singing, playing simple instruments, reading stories, balancing bean bags, and dancing with streamers to a variety of music from around the world. Class themes are related to nature and the outside world. During springtime, the children have fun dancing like blooming flowers and butterflies. In the fall, they sing and read about trees and the harvest. Parental supervision is required. Tuesdays, May 7 - 21, 10:00 - 10:45 am. $39 for three week; $22.50 for each sibling. Participants are invited to stay for free play in our playroom following the class. Register here.
Making the Transition: Breastfeeding When You're a Working Mom (new moms)
Congratulations on continuing to breastfeed your baby when you are separated! To help make the transition to work without surprises, we will assist you in making a plan for feeding your baby so you are prepared and worry-free. We will discuss how much milk your baby needs while you're away, how the milk is given to baby, and how to keep up your milk supply. We'll cover pumping basics, including which type is best for your needs, how to pump effectively, and how to store milk safely; explore organizing your workday; and address caregiver and employer concerns. Pre-crawling babies welcome. With Margie King, IBCLC, RLC. Wed., May 8, 10:30 am - 12:30 pm. $35. Register here.
Parenting Your Spirited Child (2 - 6 years)
Is your son always on the go, resisting change or insisting on having things his way? Does your daughter notice everything around her, boss the other kids around at school, or have meltdowns when you take her to the store? Some children are more intense and persistent, and learning about their temperament and yours will reduce tensions and increase harmony for the entire family. With Rona Renner, RN. Thurs., May 9, 6:30 - 8:30 pm. $35. Register here.
Infant and Child CPR (birth - onset of puberty)
Learn to recognize an infant or child in distress, rescue measures for choking, CPR techniques, and infant sleep safety. Includes hands-on practice with mannequins. One-year certification provided. Pre-crawling babies welcome. With Georgia Montgomery, CD, CCE, LE BLS. Tues., May 21, 6:30 - 8:30 pm. $35. Register here.
Mothers and Sons: Raising Emotionally Strong Boys (2 - 10 years)
Mothers can have a positive influence over their sons' emotional growth. Yet the mixed messages around raising boys often leave moms confused and needing clear direction. This workshop will provide guidance and essential tools to help you navigate your important role in your sons' development. With Mical Falk, PhD. Thurs., May 23, 6:30 - 8:30 pm. $35. Register here.
For more information, and for a full roster of programs and resources, visit www.parentsplaceonline.org/marin; you can call them at (415) 491-7959. Parents Place Marin is located in San Rafael at 600 Fifth Avenue.
