Top Breakfasts with Santa

This time of year kids have a unique opportunity to have breakfast with everyone’s favorite jolly guy – Santa!! Take the kiddos for a once in a lifetime chance to have pancakes and a memorable photo opp with Santa at one of these select breakfast with Santa events in the Philadelphia areas -- and yes Santa CAN be at all these places at once!!

Breakfast with Santa at Dave & Buster’s
Dave & Busters
Philadelphia, PA

Help a special cause this holiday by participating in this Breakfast with Santa at Dave & Buster’s on Columbus Blvd in Philadelphia on Sunday December 4th from 9am – 11:30am. Breakfast includes buffet, unlimited non alcoholic beverages, unlimted video game play, family entertainment, parking, gift for child and a framed photo with Santa but you must purchase tickets before Dec. 2nd by calling 215-282-2862 or emailinghilary_regojo@daveandbusters.com. No walk-ins. No refunds. A portion of all ticket sales will be donated to the Kisses for Kyle Foundation (http://www.kissesforkyle.org/) helping families battle childhood cancer.

Breakfast with Santa on the Battleship New Jersey
Battleship New Jersey
Camden, NJ

Kids will delight in this unique chance to have breakfast with Santa aboard a real battleship on Saturday December 3rd from 9-11am at the Battleship New Jersey this season. Enjoy a hot breakfast chow-line style at the Crew’s Galley, meet Santa and local mascots, win prizes and enjoy a self-guided tour of the battleship. $20 for adults. $16 for children 12 and under. Seating is limited. Make your reservations today by calling 866-877-6262 ext. 107.

Breakfast with Santa at Longwood Gardens
Longwood Gardens
Kennett Square, PA

There might not be a more beautiful location to have your kids enjoy a breakfast with Santa than the stunning Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square, PA this December. Breakfast with Santa runs Dec. 10th – 11th and 17th and 18th with two seatings at 8:30am and 10:30am. Enjoy a delicious breakfast buffet provided by the chefs of the Terrace Restaurant. Children can speak with Santa, share their holiday wish lists and of course take photos – parents, don’t forget those cameras! Cost is $40 for ages 12 and up (members $32); $22 for ages 5-11 (members $18); $5 for ages 1-4. Free for children 12 months and under. Member discount. Prices include Gardens admission and breakfast.

Breakfast with Santa at Winterthur
Winterthur
Winterthur, DE

Enjoy a delicious buffet Breakfast with Santa at Winterthur, the childhood home of horticulturist Henry Francis du Pont turned into a public garden and museum, in Delaware running Dec. 10th and Dec. 17th with two seatings at 9am and 9:30am. Kids can also enjoy ornament making and a performance of holiday music by children’s entertainer, Silly Joe, back again this year by popular demand! Tickets $18 for children ages 1-12. $28 for adults (Members $21).

Breakfast with Scuba Santa
Adventure Aquarium
Camden, NJ

Families should not miss this extraordinary Breakfast with Scuba Santa at the Adventure Aquarium this holiday season with multiple character appearances featuring the one and only Scuba Santa as he dives inside the 550,000 gallon Shark Realm exhibit. Breakfast with Scuba Santa runs December 3rd and 4th and 10th and 11th from 8:30-10:30am and includes breakfast hosted in the Aquarium’s Currents Ballroom with unique views of the Shark Realm Exhibit, arts and craft activities, Free Parking, and a photo opportunity with Scuba Santa and free photo plus admission to the Aquarium. Tickets $33.95 for adults and $29.95 for children.

Breakfast with Santa at The Crayola Factory
The Crayola Factory
Easton, PA

On Saturdays in December through Dec. 17th take the family to The Crayola Factory in Easton PA for a great Breakfast with Santa and the Crayola characters including a hot breakfast, holiday fun, a free Crayola gift and of course unique photo opportunities. Cost $20 per person. Reservations required.

Brunch with Santa
Elmwood Park Zoo
Norristown, PA

It’s Brunch with Santa this season at Norristown’s Elmwood Park Zoo running December 11th, 17th and 18th with three seatings at 10:30am, 12:30pm and 2pm. Brunch features a full brunch buffet, live reindeer, elf entertainment and of course a photo shoot with Santa! Adults $25. Children $15. Members get 10% off. Seating is limited so be sure to reserve early.

Breakfast with Santa at Hard Rock Café
Hard Rock Cafe
Philadelphia, PA

Breakfast with Santa at Philly’s own Hard Rock Café features family style seating, a full hot and cold buffet, goody bag, a balloon artist and a visit from Santa to every table, plus a special reading of “twas the Night Before Christmas by the tree for unique photo taking opportunities. Bring your cameras! Also features Toys for Tots drop-off. Breakfast runs Dec. 10th and 11th and 17th and 18th at 8:30am. Cost is $18 for adults, $15 for children 3-12, and free for 2 and under. Call the Cafe for more info and to book your reservations @ 215-238-0639. Limited seating is available.

Top Breakfasts with Santa

Weekend phillyfun picks

As you recover from your tryptophan coma and your black friday shopping and start to think about the rest of the weekend, here are our top Thanksgiving Weekend Philly Fun Picks to enjoy the extra days home with the family:

Macy’s Christmas Light Show
Daily through New Years Day
1300 Market St.
Philadelphia, PA

In our family, it’s not the holidays unless we get down to Macy’s to enjoy the Christmas light show spectacular. A holiday tradition for 50 years, we went when it was Wanamaker’s but now Macy’s does it justice with a beautiful light show and sound display followed by organ concerts. After the show, head up to the 3rd floor for the Dickens Christmas Village experience to see scenes from A Christmas Carol and allow children the opportunity to visit with Santa. Don’t forget to bring your stamped letter in an envelope marked for the North Pole for your child to mail in Macy’s. For each letter sent to the Big Guy, Macy’s will donate $1 to the Make a Wish Foundation. Light show runs hourly 10am – 8pm starting November 25th through New Years Eve day. Dickens Village open 10am-7pm Nov. 26th – New Years Eve day.

(photo credit: J. HOLDER FOR GPTMC)
The Comcast Holiday Spectacular
Through Christmas
1701 John F. Kennedy Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA

The Comcast Holiday Spectacular is shown hourly from Thanksgiving through Christmas on The Comcast Experience video wall, the world’s largest 4 mm LED display, in the lobby. The 15 minute show runs from 10AM to 8PM (except at 5PM M-F to avoid the business day exodus) and new this year includes scenes from the Nutcracker performed by the Pennsylvania Ballet , a magical sleigh ride through the Pennsylvania countryside, and other holiday sights and sounds set to orchestral and choral holiday music. Free.

Christmas Village
Through Christmas Eve
Love Park
Philadelphia, PA

Starting November 24th and running through Christmas Eve, Philly’s Love Park is home to its own Christkindl style market at Christmas Village complete with crafts, food and fun for the whole family. New this year is a carousel for children to ride as well. Children can visit Santa’s house to have a seat on his lap and tell the big guy their Christmas wishes. There are also plenty of authentic German foods including bratwursts, gingerbread, waffles, crepes, potato salad and traditional German sweets like Lebkuchen and soft gingerbread biscuits for all. Runs from 11am-8pm daily from through Christmas Eve. Free.

North Pole Express
Through New Year's Eve
New Hope & Ivyland Railroad
New Hope, PA

All about this special North Pole Express holiday train at the New Hope & Ivyland Railroad destined for the North Pole! Ride the rails with Santa, Mrs. Claus and other holiday figures including local musicians playing holiday music and leading caroling for all. Families can sip cocoa and enjoy cookies as children get to have individual visits with Santa who present each child with a small gift. Professional photo packages also available. North Pole Express runs weekends through New Year’s Eve with hourly excursions starting at 12 Noon and a final depart time of 6:45pm. Adults $37, Children ages 2-11 $35.00, children aged 2 and under $10.00. First class updates also available. See website for full ticketing details.

Santa’s Paradise Express
Through Dec. 18th
Strasburg Rail Road
Strasburg, PA

If it’s more of a day trip you’re after, children can meet Santa and his helpers while taking a ride on a 45 minute vintage steam train ride to Paradise, PA to kick-off the holidays at beautiful Strasburg Rail Road. After the train ride, children can participate in a story reading of holiday classics. Children ages 3-11 receive a gift from Santa as well! Santa’s Holiday Express starts this weekend Friday Nov. 25th – Sunday Nov. 27th and runs weekends through Dec. 18th. Ticket prices vary from $3-$30. Please see website for full ticket details.

The Family Fun and Dinosaur Express
Friday Nov. 25 through Sunday Nov. 27
Greater Philadelphia Expo Center
Oaks, PA

The dinosaurs are coming to Oaks this Friday November 25th through Sunday 27th at The Family Fun and Dinosaur Express. Bring the whole family out to see and touch the Burning Tree Mastodon and dozens of other life like replica dinosaurs. Plus kids will enjoy moon bounces, a petting zoo, pony rides, carnival games and other great family fun for all ages. Get your discount tickets earl online. Tickets run $3 - $9. Family four packs $30.

A Longwood Gardens Christmas
November 24, 2011 - January 8, 2012
Kennett Square, PA

Beautiful Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square is transformed into a Gingerbread Fantasy this holiday season with towering trees adorned with gingerbread garland and cookie ornaments. Children will delight in the Gingerbread Express train as it routes its way through a candy-filled music room. And, enjoy half a million lights on display in the most beautiful gardens in the area with lit trees, dancing fountains, and beautiful plants. Daily and evening performances add to the holiday magic. Admission to the Christmas display is by Timed Admission Ticket, with tickets purchased in advance for a specific date and time. Buy before you arrive! $8-$25.pia

Thanksgiving Celebration
Friday Nov. 25th - Sunday 27th
National Constitution Center
Philadelphia, PA

The National Constitution Center hosts a Thanksgiving Celebration this weekend where families can enjoy a History of Thanksgiving program to learn about the true history of Thanksgiving over the years and participate in seasonal make and take crafts. Thanksgiving Celebration runs Friday Nov. 25- Sunday Nov. 27th from 10am -3 pm. Free with paid admission $8-$12. Ages 3 and younger free. Veterans free on Black Friday.

A Brandywine Christmas – Chadds Ford
Through Jan. 8, 2012
Brandywine River Museum
Chadds Ford, PA

The Brandywine River Museum celebrates this year’s holiday season at A Brandywine Christmas with their extensive 0-gauge model railroad plus antique dolls from the private collection of Ann Wyeth McCoy, an elaborate Victorian dollhouse and beautifully decorated trees with natural ornaments. New for 2011 is a display featuring Ann Wyeth McCoy’s adult-sized dollhouse.

Adventure Aquarium’s Christmas Celebration
Friday Nov. 25th through January 1, 2012
Camden, NJ

Starting on Friday Nov. 25th through January 1, 2012 Camden’s Adventure Aquarium is transformed into a magical undersea holiday wonderland with larger than life holiday decorations, twinkly lights, tress and falling snow. Children are thrilled to see “Scuba Santa” swimming with the sea creatures and waving to them from inside the Ocean Realm exhibit. Adventure Aquarium also boasts the best Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Show you’ll ever see with live appearances from the Bumble and live dance party and more. Visit before Christmas and get a free 4x6 photo of the kids with Rudolph, the Bumble and friends. Shows runs daily through Jan. 12t 2012. Free with paid admission $17.95-$21.95.

Weekend phillyfun picks

Happy Thanksgiving

Happy Thanksgiving Friends! May your turkeys be moist, your pies be plentiful and your families be together, happy and healthy today. I am grateful for each and every one of you!!

As you recover from your tryptophan coma and start to think about the rest of your weekend here are our Thanksgiving Weekend Philly Fun Picks:

Macy’s Christmas Light Show
Daily through New Years Day
1300 Market St.
Philadelphia, PA

In our family, it’s not the holidays unless we get down to Macy’s to enjoy the Christmas light show spectacular. A holiday tradition for 50 years, we went when it was Wanamaker’s but now Macy’s does it justice with a beautiful light show and sound display followed by organ concerts. After the show, head up to the 3rd floor for the Dickens Christmas Village experience to see scenes from A Christmas Carol and allow children the opportunity to visit with Santa. Don’t forget to bring your stamped letter in an envelope marked for the North Pole for your child to mail in Macy’s. For each letter sent to the Big Guy, Macy’s will donate $1 to the Make a Wish Foundation. Light show runs hourly 10am – 8pm starting November 25th through New Years Eve day. Dickens Village open 10am-7pm Nov. 26th – New Years Eve day.

(photo credit: J. HOLDER FOR GPTMC)
The Comcast Holiday Spectacular
Through Christmas
1701 John F. Kennedy Blvd.
Philadelphia, PA

The Comcast Holiday Spectacular is shown hourly from Thanksgiving through Christmas on The Comcast Experience video wall, the world’s largest 4 mm LED display, in the lobby. The 15 minute show runs from 10AM to 8PM (except at 5PM M-F to avoid the business day exodus) and new this year includes scenes from the Nutcracker performed by the Pennsylvania Ballet , a magical sleigh ride through the Pennsylvania countryside, and other holiday sights and sounds set to orchestral and choral holiday music. Free.

Christmas Village
Through Christmas Eve
Love Park
Philadelphia, PA

Starting November 24th and running through Christmas Eve, Philly’s Love Park is home to its own Christkindl style market at Christmas Village complete with crafts, food and fun for the whole family. New this year is a carousel for children to ride as well. Children can visit Santa’s house to have a seat on his lap and tell the big guy their Christmas wishes. There are also plenty of authentic German foods including bratwursts, gingerbread, waffles, crepes, potato salad and traditional German sweets like Lebkuchen and soft gingerbread biscuits for all. Runs from 11am-8pm daily from through Christmas Eve. Free.

North Pole Express
Through New Year's Eve
New Hope & Ivyland Railroad
New Hope, PA

All about this special North Pole Express holiday train at the New Hope & Ivyland Railroad destined for the North Pole! Ride the rails with Santa, Mrs. Claus and other holiday figures including local musicians playing holiday music and leading caroling for all. Families can sip cocoa and enjoy cookies as children get to have individual visits with Santa who present each child with a small gift. Professional photo packages also available. North Pole Express runs weekends through New Year’s Eve with hourly excursions starting at 12 Noon and a final depart time of 6:45pm. Adults $37, Children ages 2-11 $35.00, children aged 2 and under $10.00. First class updates also available. See website for full ticketing details.

Santa’s Paradise Express
Through Dec. 18th
Strasburg Rail Road
Strasburg, PA

If it’s more of a day trip you’re after, children can meet Santa and his helpers while taking a ride on a 45 minute vintage steam train ride to Paradise, PA to kick-off the holidays at beautiful Strasburg Rail Road. After the train ride, children can participate in a story reading of holiday classics. Children ages 3-11 receive a gift from Santa as well! Santa’s Holiday Express starts this weekend Friday Nov. 25th – Sunday Nov. 27th and runs weekends through Dec. 18th. Ticket prices vary from $3-$30. Please see website for full ticket details.

The Family Fun and Dinosaur Express
Friday Nov. 25 through Sunday Nov. 27
Greater Philadelphia Expo Center
Oaks, PA

The dinosaurs are coming to Oaks this Friday November 25th through Sunday 27th at The Family Fun and Dinosaur Express. Bring the whole family out to see and touch the Burning Tree Mastodon and dozens of other life like replica dinosaurs. Plus kids will enjoy moon bounces, a petting zoo, pony rides, carnival games and other great family fun for all ages. Get your discount tickets earl online. Tickets run $3 - $9. Family four packs $30.

A Longwood Gardens Christmas
November 24, 2011 - January 8, 2012
Kennett Square, PA

Beautiful Longwood Gardens in Kennett Square is transformed into a Gingerbread Fantasy this holiday season with towering trees adorned with gingerbread garland and cookie ornaments. Children will delight in the Gingerbread Express train as it routes its way through a candy-filled music room. And, enjoy half a million lights on display in the most beautiful gardens in the area with lit trees, dancing fountains, and beautiful plants. Daily and evening performances add to the holiday magic. Admission to the Christmas display is by Timed Admission Ticket, with tickets purchased in advance for a specific date and time. Buy before you arrive! $8-$25.pia

Thanksgiving Celebration
Friday Nov. 25th - Sunday 27th
National Constitution Center
Philadelphia, PA

The National Constitution Center hosts a Thanksgiving Celebration this weekend where families can enjoy a History of Thanksgiving program to learn about the true history of Thanksgiving over the years and participate in seasonal make and take crafts. Thanksgiving Celebration runs Friday Nov. 25- Sunday Nov. 27th from 10am -3 pm. Free with paid admission $8-$12. Ages 3 and younger free. Veterans free on Black Friday.

A Brandywine Christmas – Chadds Ford
Through Jan. 8, 2012
Brandywine River Museum
Chadds Ford, PA

The Brandywine River Museum celebrates this year’s holiday season at A Brandywine Christmas with their extensive 0-gauge model railroad plus antique dolls from the private collection of Ann Wyeth McCoy, an elaborate Victorian dollhouse and beautifully decorated trees with natural ornaments. New for 2011 is a display featuring Ann Wyeth McCoy’s adult-sized dollhouse.

Adventure Aquarium’s Christmas Celebration
Friday Nov. 25th through January 1, 2012
Camden, NJ

Starting on Friday Nov. 25th through January 1, 2012 Camden’s Adventure Aquarium is transformed into a magical undersea holiday wonderland with larger than life holiday decorations, twinkly lights, tress and falling snow. Children are thrilled to see “Scuba Santa” swimming with the sea creatures and waving to them from inside the Ocean Realm exhibit. Adventure Aquarium also boasts the best Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer Show you’ll ever see with live appearances from the Bumble and live dance party and more. Visit before Christmas and get a free 4x6 photo of the kids with Rudolph, the Bumble and friends. Shows runs daily through Jan. 12t 2012. Free with paid admission $17.95-$21.95.

Happy Thanksgiving

Kiddie Christmas Tree App

Are you looking for a fun new holiday app for your little ones? Check out Kiddie Christmas Tree available on iPhone and Android for just $1.99. Now, I have to admit that I'm a little partial to this one because my husband created it! I'm so proud of him and am really excited to spread the word about his great app for kids and families. This app was first created last Christmas for our then 2.5 yr old daughter. This year, there are lots of great enhancements like all new graphics and new features with more on the way in future releases. Plus, on Christmas Day there is a surprise message waiting for kids! And this past weekend Kiddie Christmas Tree made it into the Top 200 family games for iPad!! Woot!

If you're in the market for a new app for your little guys, I hope you'll give Kiddie Christmas Tree a try! Please do let me know what you think! (And, I'll pass it along to the developer!!)



Disclaimer: This is not a paid post however in full disclosure, as already stated my husband developed this app. All opinions expressed about its or his awesomeness are my own.

Kiddie Christmas Tree App

Weekend phillyfun picks

Holiday season is definitely here with Thanksgiving just a few days away now it’s time to embrace it! Get yourself in the holiday spirit by checking out one of these festive family fun events for all ages!

WXPN Kid’s Corner Music Festival
Saturday November 19
Doors open at 10:30am
World Café Live at The Queen
Wilmington, DE

This 2nd Kid’s Corner Music Festival takes place on Saturday November 19th and will feature music, fun, crafts, food and more with a full day’s line up of great family friendly music to include: The Plants, Shine and the Moonbeams, Billy Kelly and The Blah Blah Blahs. Plus free make and take craft stations, balloon sculptors, and a family-friendly lunch buffet (available for a nominal price). Tickets $7. Doors open at 10:30am. Music starts at 11am.

Creative Family Performance: Thanks & Giving
Saturday November 19th
4:30 pm
The Creative Living Room
Swarthmore, PA

Come out and enjoy this Thanks & Giving holiday benefit concert on Saturday November 19th at 4:30pm at Swarthmore’s Creative Living Room with World of Song’s Allison DeSalvo and Friends. There will be joyful songs, funny stories, and colorful art during this fun-filled interactive music festival. All proceeds benefit F.A.S.T. $6 per person.

The Nutcracker
Fri. November 18 - Sunday November 20th
Upper Darby Performing Arts Center
Drexel Hill, PA

Get in the spirit of the holidays with this performance of The Nutcracker at The Upper Darby Performing Arts Center running Friday November 18th through Sunday November 20th. Since 1990 the Upper Darby Performing Arts Center’s 90 minute Nutcracker has introduced thousands of all ages to the beauty and magic of Tchaikovsky’s Nutcracker. Tickets between $10-$24.

Gingerbread House Demonstration and Competition
Saturday November 19th
12 Noon
Grounds for Sculpture
Hamilton NJ

Families can join pastry chef Peter Max Dierkes at the Grounds for Sculpture this Saturday November 19th at 12 Noon for a lesson in the masterful art of gingerbread house decorating. Then families can make and enter their own gingerbread houses to enter in the 2011 Contest (bring houses for entering between 12 PM on Sat. Nov. 19th and 12 PM on Saturday November 26th). Categories for Children, Family, Adult and Visitor’s Choice categories. Free with admission. See website for complete competition details.

The Clay Studio
Saturday November 19th
10am - 12pm
Philadelphia, PA

Children can make cornucopias, turkeys and holiday foods during the Children and Family Saturday Workshop at The Clay Studio this Saturday November 19th from 10am – 12pm. $35 price for non-members includes admission for 1 adult and 1 child. Ages 4 and up.

National Dog Show
Saturday November 19th and Sunday November 20th
Greater Philadelphia Expo Center at Oaks
Oaks PA

The Kennel Club of Philadelphia’s annual National Dog Show takes place this Saturday November 19th and Sunday November 20th featuring 2,000 of the top dogs from 150 varied breeds from around the country. The Saturday show is taped for telecast on Thanksgiving. Tickets $7-$14. Ages 3 and younger free.

Weekend phillyfun picks

Peddler's Village Grand Illumination

In my family, it's not officially the holiday season until we've made our annual trip out to beautiful Peddler's Village in Lahaska, PA for their Grand Illumination Celebration.

This year, the Grand Illumination takes place this Friday November 18th from 6-10pm. At the Grand Illumination, Santa switches on the Village's outdoor holiday light display on Friday at 6:15 pm sharp to kick off the holiday season and his weekend visits with children at Giggleberry Fair through December. Families can enjoy free cider and marshmallow toasting as well as entertainment and lots of other great holiday fun. Plus, don't forget to check out Giggleberry Fair where kids can climb Giggleberry Mountain to conquer the largest indoor obstacle course in the region and stretch imaginations at the interactive Giggles Discovers. Every year, we have such a wonderful time hanging out at Giggleberry and then watching as Santa flips the switch and the entire village lights up. The celebration and parking are free. I can think of no better way to kick-off the holidays than with this family-friendly holiday lights spectacular! Hope to see you there!!

Peddler's Village Grand Illumination

Is Sugar Killing Our Kids?

For regular phillyfun4kids readers, you know we don't normally use this venue to post editorials. We keep it light and focused on family and kid-friendly things to do in and around this great city of motherly love. Once in a while we will post about a particular cause that is important to us (like childhood literacy, etc) but today we're going to get personal. Hope you don't mind...

I've been struggling with this for a long time now but I think I have finally come to the official conclusion that my 3.5 year old is a sugar addict. For the first year and half of her life she barely had any sugar. Grandparents couldn't believe that she had never had ice cream when she was 1.5 yrs old. I think her first real sweet might have been a lollipop handed out by some loving grandma trying to make nice. Little did we know that lollipops are a gateway drug... on to the "harder" stuff like M&Ms and skittles. Or of course we knew that but didn't realize how quickly it would happen and what a slippery slope it would be once the first offerings of sugar were made and so gleefully accepted.

We first noticed that we were dealing with a real issue long before the candy though. We noticed it with the juice. She started getting some apple juice after we I weaned her (rather late, I might add) close to her 2 yr birthday. And from there she was hooked. She always wanted juice. We diluted it of course but we gave her diluted juice throughout much of the day. Largely this was because she didn't drink cows milk and wasn't real keen on water (who would be after being given juice all day, I guess). We started noticing behavioral issues related to her juice consumption. Tantrums. Meltdowns. Not eating. Only wanting juice. It was like she was mainlining apple juice all day to get by and if she didn't have it, watch out. So, we started to wean her off juice. She's now down to just a little diluted juice in the morning and water for the rest of the day unless we are out to eat or somewhere special where she might get juice again.

And so it went for a while with the diluted juice and trying to keep sweets to a minimum. Over the past two years, we have suspected that she was very sensitive to sugar but now in fact, we've confirmed it. Whenever she would eat a piece of candy or a sweet the effects would be immediate and obvious. Her energy would skyrocket and the happiness and glee was cute (until it sometimes bordered on a little crazy). But then the lows and the mood swings were bad. Sometimes REAL bad. Case in point...

Recently after "mainlining" a rarely proffered chocolate milk at one of family's occassional fast food weekend stops, I ended up having to carry my daughter kicking and screaming and practically frothing at the mouth from the restaurant. This is not the first time this has happened. Usually it is the result of a lethal combo of being overly tired and then getting some form of sugar. But, this time was a new low. It was after "the chocolate milk incident" that I realized once and for all that we had a big problem. And frankly what scared me most was not the stares of other patrons or the having to physically remove her from a place to avoid further incident but rather that she was so worked up and upset it just seemed so unfair to allow this to happen to her if it didn't have to happen. She seemed so out of control and what's *really* freaky is that after she was removed from the restaurant and after she had finally calmed down a little she fell asleep and napped for a nice long car nap. But when she woke up she started talking about how we hadn't gone to lunch yet. It was as if she blocked the whole incident - she had an outer body experience or something and was so disturbed and outside of herself that she didn't even realize we had already had lunch and been to the place she was clamoring to go to and eat (again). Surreal, right? Who wants to have their kid feel this way? Or experience this level of "mini-trauma" that she had already blocked the whole thing? Not me, that's for sure. Especially not if there's something I can do to help avoid it.

In trying to understand the mood swings, and the sugar crazed behavior, we did some research and found a book called Little Sugar Addicts by Kathleen Des Maisons. If you have even the remotest suspicion that your child is sugar sensitive or if you have interest in eliminating or reducing sugar from your family's diet, you really need to read this book. It is an incredible eye opener for me and so clearly and easily presented that even a sleep deprived, overcommitted, and scatterbrained mommy of two like me can not only make sense of it but start to follow the steps laid out immediately.

Here are the key points for those of you who want/need the cliff notes:

- Sugar sensitivity is a bio-chemical imbalance. It does not occur in everyone. If you aren't sure whether you are your child is sugar-sensitive, all you have to do is take the "chocolate chip cookie test". (BTW, I failed. And I know my sugar sensitive daughter would too.)

- Controlling sugar intake in sugar sensitive people (including yourself and your kids!) will help to even out behavior and moods.

- Significantly reducing and/or eliminating sugar from your child's diet will very likely increase their self confidence. Sugar sensitive people are born with low beta-endorphin. Low beta-endorphin produces low self-esteem. Controlling and/or eliminating sugar and eating right might help increase self-esteem.

- Sugar sensitivity may be linked to alcoholism. According to Des Maisons the biochemical imbalances of sugar sensitivity may be an underlying factor in alcoholism (among other diseases including ADD, obesity, diabetes and depression.)

- Step 1? Not reduce or eliminate sugar as you might think but rather increase protein. And increase protein especially within an hour after waking up to normalize the blood sugar in the body after sleeping all night.

Obviously, I am WAAAY oversimplifying Kathleen DesMaison's book and work but I wanted to pique your interest enough and provide the salient points so that if you think you might have a sugar sensitive child on your hands you can start to have some real help at your finger-tips.

What's ironic about all this is that I was reading this book mere days before Halloween and I'm stocking up and stashing Halloween candy as I am pouring over this book. Obviously trying to eliminate sugar in the week before Halloween wasn't going to fly but I knew that once the big candy getting event was over, we could start in earnest to drastically reduce and monitor sugar intake. And we have. It's not going to always be easy but I'm really pleased to have found a manageable cause for such um, drastic, behavioral changes in my otherwise sweet little girl. And if by reducing or eliminating sugar from her diet I'm also decreasing her chances of becoming obese or getting diabetes or even possibly cancer than I'm all for it and ready to take drastic measures to make it happen. I'm also amazed at the possibility that I could be increasing my daughter's chances for having improved self esteem throughout her life. That alone, means that maybe I've given her a slightly more solid footing from which to launch from in life. All by reducing her sugar now.

If you need more data on the impact and effect of sugar, check out this New York Times article "Is Sugar Toxic?" by Gary Taubes.

Good luck with reducing sugar from your family's diet. Let me know how you make out and any experiences or tips you might want to share. Know that you're not alone and take it slowly. Make it fun. Get the whole family involved and empower your kids to better understand sugar and why sugar is not love (as Kathleen Des Maisons reminds us).

Disclosure: This is not a paid or sponsored post. I received no monetary compensation for sharing my thoughts about sugar sensitivity. This post is simply made in an attempt to share my personal experiences with sugar in my family and to help readers find information and resources if they are facing similar challenges.

Is Sugar Killing Our Kids?

Weekend phillyfun picks

If you're ready for this sort of merriment, enjoy the arrival of Santa at many area attractions and malls this weekend. Plus families can take part in a Puppet Workshop at the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts, a Family Concert at Curtis, a Celebration of Art at the Queen Village Art Center and so much more!!

Amazing Autumn at SMITH
Saturday November 12th
10am - 12:30pm
SMITH Kids Play Place in the Park
East Fairmount Park
Philadelphia, PA

Join the Junior League of Philadelphia at SMITH The Kids Play Place in the Park on Saturday November 12th from 10 am – 12:30pm for a morning of fall-fun activities. Children ages 5 and younger are welcome to participate in a fall-themed scavenger hunt, make a craft of a Tree of Thanks, a Scarecrow, and more. Free.

Family Discovery Days: Cider Pressing and Leaf Printing
Saturday Nov. 12th
10-11:30am
Bartram’s Gardens
Philadelphia, PA

This monthly Family Days program at Bartram’s Gardens will feature Leaf Pressing and Cider Making on Saturday November 12th from 10-11:30am at Bartram’s Gardens. Discover the colors of autumn in the Garden, create beautiful pressings from the leaves found in the Garden and make your own apple cider using a hand press. $10 per child, additional siblings $8. Free with Program Pass Membership.

Forgotten Food Festival
Saturday Nov. 12th
10am - 4pm
Reading Terminal Market
51 N. 12th Street
Philadelphia, PA

Delight in forgotten foods such as Pepper Hash, Snapper Soup, Oyster Stew, Fried Catfish and Waffles, Paw Paw Ice Cream and lots more at the Forgotten Food Festival at Reading Terminal Market this Sat. November 12th from 10am – 4pm. Free.

Puppets Can Fly Workshop
Sunday Nov. 13th
2-3:30pm
Pennsylvania Academy of the Fine Arts
Philadelphia, PA

On Sunday November 13th from 2-3:30pm the Pennsylvania Academy of Fine Arts will hold a Puppets Can Fly Family Workshop starting with an interactive puppet performance by PAFA featured artists, Laurencio Luiz. Following the performance, families will enjoy puppet making in the studio workshop. FREE for Philadelphia School District students and their families and PAFA members. Children 12 and under free. Non-members free with $15 museum admission.

Curtis Family Concert
Sunday Nov. 13th 2pm and 4pm
Curtis Institute of Music, Gould Rehearsal Hall
Philadelphia, PA

Take the whole family to the Curtis Family Concert this Sunday November 13th at 2pm and 4pm for this interactive fun-filled introduction to classical music. Enjoy performance and interaction with Curtis students focusing on the Brass Family. Geared for ages 5-12. Tickets $5, ages 12 and younger free.

Grand Opening pARTy
Sunday Nov. 13th
1-5pm
Queen Village Art Center
Philadelphia, PA

It’s the Grand Opening of the new Queen Village Art Center this Sunday Nov. 13th from 1-5pm. Enjoy this family day of making public art for everyone! Plus music, Philly food trucks, treats and lots more fun. Free.

Santa’s Arrival - The big guy himself official arrives at several area malls and attractions this weekend including:

King of Prussia Mall
Lower Level of the Nordstrom Court
Lower Level of the Bloomingdale’s Court
King of Prussia, PA

Cherry Hill Mall
Macy’s Court
Cherry Hill, NJ

Holiday Kick Off Carnival
Saturday Nov. 12th 12 noon – 2pm
Springfield Mall
Springfield, PA

Santa Arrives by Firetruck
Saturday Nov. 12th - 1pm
Byers’s Choice Ltd.
Chalfont, PA
http://www.byerschoice.com/

Weekend phillyfun picks

Introducing Kids to Opera at Hansel and Gretel

If you were ever looking for a great way to introduce your children to opera, look no further! The Plymouth Meeting Friends School will be running a special family friendly Opera event on Sunday November 20th at 4pm. Hansel & Gretel, presented by Children's Opera Box & PMFS Students, is an event for the whole family that is filled with surprises — just open the box and out comes an opera! This family opera is led by PMFS music teacher Paula Rivera-Dantagnan, who is also a professional opera singer, and who builds opera into the music program at PMFS. Tickets are just $5 each or $15 for a family. To order your tickets, mail in this completed order form.

Introducing Kids to Opera at Hansel and Gretel

Weekend phillyfun picks

November is here which means craft shows, holiday bazaars and a season of celebrations! Enjoy this first weekend of merriment leading up to the holidays with everything from a Diwali Celebration of Light, the Sugarloaf Crafts Festival, the 6th Annual Storytelling Festival and much more! And don't forget to turn your clocks back on Saturday night before you go to bed!

Lower Brandywine Storytelling Festival – Wilmington
Friday Nov. 4 (7-11pm) and Saturday Nov. 5 (9am-11pm)
Lower Brandywine Presbyterian Church
Wilmington, DE

This 6th Annual Lower Brandywine Storytelling Festival features award-winning storytellers from across the nation. Families will enjoy two-time Grammy winner Bill Harley; Bruce Fite, award-winning children’s artist; and Kids Tellin’ a group of youth storytellers. $10-$35 individual tickets, ages 6 and younger are free.

Sugarloaf Crafts Festival
Friday Nov. 4th - Sunday Nov. 6th
Greater Philadelphia Expo Center
Oaks, PA

The Sugarloaf Crafts Festival runs Friday Nov. 4th through Sunday Nov. 6th. For over 30 years, the nation’s most talented artisans have personally sold their contemporary crafts and fine art at Sugarloaf Craft Festivals. Rated as one of the top craft experiences in the country, last year more than 175,000 visitors attended Sugarloaf Craft Festivals and enjoyed the work of thousands of juried artisans. Kids and families can enjoy live music performances and costumed storytelling by Middle Earth Studios. Festival runs 10am – 6pm Friday and Saturday and 10am – 5pm on Sunday. $9 for adults Children 12 and under free. $1.00 off coupon available online. Free parking.

Diwali Festival: A Celebration of Lights!
Friday Nov. 4th
6:00 pm
The Creative Living Room - Swarthmore
Swarthmore, PA

Enjoy this Celebration of Lights! As part of The Creative Living Room’s Pillow & Pajama Story Time on Friday Nov. 4th at 6:00pm. Celebrate the Indian “New Year” with stories, songs, live music, dances, arts and crafts, and more! Free. Donations accepted.

Victorian Christmas Workshop For Kids
Saturday Nov. 5th
10am - 11:30 am
Pennypacker Mills
Schwenksville, PA

Kids can make Victorian Christmas ornaments using “scrap” or ribbons and more at the historic Pennypacker Mills this Sat Refreshments will be served. Parents are required to stay and help out. $5 per participant. Pre-register and pre-payment required. Ages 10+.

Kids In Center City Playdate
Saturday Nov. 5th
11:30 am - 1pm
The Market and Shops at Comcast Center
Philadelphia, PA

This Saturday Nov. 5th from 11:30am - 1pm kids can meet Kelly and CHICA THE CHICKEN from Sprout's LIVE morning show, The Sunny Side Up Show, at the next Kids In Center City Saturday Playdate. Kelly & CHICA will be reading a story and doing a special meet and greet. Don't forget to bring your cameras! Your child will also enjoy creating Holiday coloring sheets and cards. Free.

Jan Brett Presentation and Book Signing
Sunday Nov. 6th
10am
Wegmans
Cherry Hill, NJ

Bestselling children’s author Jan Brett will be on hand at Wegmans in Cherry Hill, NJ at 10am on Sunday Nov. 6th for a presentation and book signing of her new book Home for Christmas and The Night Before Christmas Deluxe Book & DVD Edition. Free.

Travel the World with Games at the Penn Museum
Sunday Nov. 6th
1-4pm
Penn Museum
Philadelphia, PA

Enjoy Penn Museum’s World Culture Day on Sunday Nov. 6th from 1-4pm and Travel the World with Games at the University of Pennsylvania Museum. Visitors of all ages are invited to come and learn and play a variety of games from around the world such as Go (Japan), Backgammon (Asia Minor), Chess (Northwest India), Senet (Egypt), and more. Plus at 3pm enjoy the ultimate domino show in the Museum’s Chinese Rotunda. Free with museum admission donation.

Pay What You Want All Day First Sunday of the Month
Sunday Nov. 6th
All day - 10am - 5pm
Philadelphia Art Museum
Philadelphia, PA

Enjoy Pay What You Want Admission All Day at the Philadelphia Art Museum this Sunday Nov. 6th from 10am - 5pm. Enjoy all the exhibits, art and family activities the Art Museum has to offer at a significantly reduced cost! Enjoy Dia De Los Muertos crafts in the Family Studio as part of Family Programs this Sunday from 10am - 3pm. Pay what you wish!

Weekend phillyfun picks