Beltway Bambinos

(re) discover Washington DC through the eyes of your children

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  • Home
  • At Home
    • 13 kid-worthy podcasts
    • 20 classic outdoor games
    • Hour by hour
    • Inspiration for dinner @ home
    • A letter from a homeschool mom
    • Educational resources
    • Sample schedules and ideas
    • Live Streaming Shows for Kids
    • Virtual weekday adventures
  • Indoor Fun
    • Indoor options!
    • Even more indoor spaces
    • Theater and musical productions
    • Badlands
    • ZavaZone
    • Busy Bees
    • Not your typical kid gym
    • Nook
  • Fall
    • Ultimate guide to Halloween and fall
    • Fall foliage
    • Fall classes {virtual & in-person}
    • Boo drive thru at the Zoo
    • Fall festivals, farms, orchards and events
    • Fall bucket list
  • Winter
    • Gift guide
    • Winter bucket list
    • Ski and snowboard with kids
    • Cut-your-own tree farms
    • Holiday tea
    • Outdoor ice rinks
    • Holiday light displays, outdoor markets and celebrations
    • Camps, classes & parent groups
    • Holiday shows, ballets and concerts
    • Survive Daylight Savings
  • Spring
    • Spring break camps
    • Easter, eggs and hunts
    • Mother’s Day
    • Memorial Day weekend in 2018
    • Tax day steals and deals
  • Summer
    • Summer camp guide
    • Outdoor swimming pools
    • Summer bucket list
    • Top ice cream spots
    • Live summer music
    • Splash parks
    • Outdoor movies
    • Trains!
  • Camps and Classes
    • Summer camp guide
    • Your favorite classes have gone virtual
    • School is out, these camps are in
    • Year-round kid classes
    • Spring break camps
    • DCPS mid-winter break camps
    • Fall classes {virtual & in-person}
    • Winter camps, classes & parent groups
    • Gymnastics and dance classes
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    • Lancaster County, Pennsylvania
    • Chevy Chase, DC
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    • Outdoor fun
    • Trails, marshes and gardens
    • 20 classic outdoor games
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    • Virtual birthday parties
    • Connect virtually
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    • 13 kid-worthy podcasts
    • Virtual classes
    • Weekday adventures
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5 Plant and Garden Stores in Washington, DC

February 18, 2021

Photo: Rewild

I have always had a love for gardening but the pandemic has brought to light my obsession of growing indoor plants. Keeping my orchids long after they’ve blossomed and shed that final bloom has paid off. I have found the secret to the exotic plants re-blooming {I’m currently looking at three orchids that have flowered twice since March}. Finding enough but not too much natural light, being careful of your heat sources and understanding how much to water them are a few simple tricks to being successful with your plants.

My next purchase will be a swiss cheese plant, string-of-pearls and a philodendron pink princess! It is not a cheap hobby but one that sure does bring me JOY {and a morsel of healthier air}! I’ve linked 5 of my favorite DC plant stores that not only have amazing plants but also extremely helpful employees that are sure to get you off to a good start whether you already have a green thumb or perhaps aim to have one soon.

Photo: Little Leaf

American Plant: 5258 River Rd, Bethesda, MD 20816 & 7405 River Road Bethesda, MD 20817

Capital City Hydroponics: 821 Upshur St NW, Washington, DC 20011

Gingko Gardens: 911 11th St SE, Washington, DC 20003

Little Leaf: 1401 S St NW, Washington, DC 20009

Rewild: 1924 8th St NW Suite #100, Washington, DC 20001 & 3270 M St NW, Washington, DC 20007

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Filed Under: Neighborhood Guide, Products I Love Tagged: DC, indoor, local, plants

Outdoor day destinations less than two hours from Washington, DC

August 4, 2020

Last year we created a post full of overnight trips for families that was a hit and our post on outdoor fun is being used tons this summer too for obvious reasons. We know that during these times where summer vacations are cancelled and visits from friends and relatives are on hold, you are searching for ways to get out of your house and on an adventure. Maybe you have crossed some state parks and beaches off your list already and you have already visited the great gardens and trails in our area. Now we present you with a post full of day trips that range from an hour and half to forty minutes and once you’re there you can hike, bike, walk and just be outdoors!

-Places under 90 minutes from DC-

Shenandoah Valley
Hike, head to Luray Caverns, horseback at Rocking S Ranch and more

Appalachian Trail
Day hike or multi-day hike

Harpers Ferry
Check out all of the adventures you can do in Harpers Ferry

Front Royal entrance
You can hike and walk with your dog on many trails.

-Places an hour or less from DC-

Frederick, Maryland
Hike, bike, kayak, tube and fish

Cunningham Falls State Park, Maryland
Lake with a sandy beach, trails, fishing and more

Seneca Creek State Park
Cool off in the water, enjoy lunch at a picnic tables or check out the trails

Float down the Potomac
So many options when it comes to getting on the Potomac

Great Falls Park in Virginia & Maryland
Many things to do including hiking and fishing

C&O Canal
184.5 miles

Sugarloaf Mountain
See the hiking map, a few different routes ranging from 1/4 mile to a 7 mile loop

Sunflower fields throughout our area are in bloom and a great way to spend some time outdoors, capturing natures beauty!

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Filed Under: Outdoor Play Tagged: DC, va

Best places to view cherry blossoms that are NOT on the National Mall

March 12, 2020

Clearly a lot of families are looking to get outdoors because this post was very well received. We thought a post on where to view cherry blossoms without the crowds the Tidal Basin has may be useful. Cherry Blossom Watch is on and as of now the peak time will be March 20-24, 2020! However, if you are hoping to make it to the Cherry Blossom Festival be sure to visit the link for updated information before heading downtown as some events have been cancelled.

  • The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception has over 150 trees.
  • Dumbarton Oaks has a mixture of cherry species as well as other gorgeous spring blooms.
  • US Arboretum has the trees but are spread out, but that’s the best part about heading here; room to roam!
  • Kenilworth Park & Aquatic Gardens Cherry trees surround the parking area and Visitor Center at Kenilworth Park where you can also enjoy birding along the boardwalk.
  • Brookside Gardens in Wheaton, Maryland has about 30 cherry trees and other spring blooms at their garden.
  • The neighborhood of Kenwood, Maryland has impressive tree-lined streets. However, this does get very crowded, so if dodging crowds ifs the goal, read on or go very early in the day.
  • Van Gogh Bridge at Lake Anne in Reston has been on our list to visit. There are not many trees however the location on the bridge provides that most scenic and charming photos we see year after year.
  • Rockville Civic Center Park and Glenview Mansion both have trees lining the drive to Glenview Mansion and around the Civic Center Park. You will also find a nature center, playground, and wooded nature walk if you want to extend the trip and stay longer.
  • Did you know the 2nd largest collection of cherry blossom trees in DC are at Oxon Run Park?
  • Stanton Park in Capitol Hill allows you to sit back, have a picnic and lay underneath a small collection of cherry trees.
  • Of course you can walk along the Tidal Basin with the crowds or sit on the steps of the Jefferson Memorial and admire the blossoms from there. Grab sanitizing wipes and rent a paddle boat on the Tidal Basin.

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Filed Under: Notes Tagged: cherry blossoms, DC

Spring break camps in Maryland, Virginia and Washington, DC

February 27, 2020

Maryland

Red Panda Art Studio– TBA
(5110 Ridgefield Rd, Bethesda, MD 20816)
Join a full session of sensory play and art activities related to the day’s theme. Join for one day or all week! Camp is for kids ages 3-8.

Brit-Am Soccer– April 6-10, 2020
(Next Level: 5420 Butler Rd, Bethesda, MD 20816)
This camp is great for every soccer player in Kindergarten-grade 6, experienced or beginner. Each day starts with a full camp activity which consists of energetic games to get them excited and ready for play. The players are then divided into groups, where they will work on their individual skills and play lots of fun small sided games. Each morning of camp will finish off with the World Cup Competition which is a small tournament with prizes for the winners. During the week we also hold mini competitions to find the “Best Dressed Soccer Uniform” and “Crazy Soccer Hat”. The afternoons are all about scoring goals with shooting games and small group and individual competitions. Campers play their favorite games such as power finesse, swedish fish and penalty shoot outs. After-care option is available.

My Gym– April 6-10 & April 13, 2020
(Bethesda & Potomac locations)
When school is off, My Gym camp is on! Drop your kids ages 3-9 off for three hours of cool and nonstop fun at My Gym including themed games, crafts, gymnastics, sports and snack! Potty Independent please.

Dance Exchange– April 6-10, 2020
(7117 Maple Ave Takoma Park, MD 20912)
Keep your young mover active during breaks as they explore dance in many forms—and create their own choreography. In these week-long camps, youth ages 6-10 move and make alongside Dance Exchange artists and guest artists to explore dance from tango to hip hop, classical to contemporary. Youth will explore what dance and creativity is and can do—both in the studio and out in the world. Camps end with youth blending what they learn into original choreography. 

KOA Multisport Camp– April 6-10, 2020
(4960 Boiling Brook Parkway North Bethesda, MD 20852)
Spring Break means school’s out, so lets’s play! Join Koa Sports for our Multisport Spring Break Camp at Koa HQ. This camp is for kids in PreK- grade 8 looking to be active and have fun while school is out for the week. They have access to outdoor fields at Jewish Day Upper School & swimming will take place at Kids First Swim School (under Koa HQ). This program does have limited registration, so sign up now to reserve your spot!

CREATE Arts Center– April 6-10 & April 13-17, 2020
(914 Silver Spring Ave Silver Spring, MD 20910)
Campers ages 6-12 spend each day working on a variety of art projects, including painting, drawing, sculpture, collage, and more! Flexible day-by-day registration is available as is before and after-care.

Badlands– April 6-10, 2020
(5200 Randolph Road, Rockville, MD 20852)
Due to popular demand, Badlands is launching their first ever Spring Break Camp. Join for five days of themed activities and learning. From Disney day to wacky hair day… EVERY day will be an adventure.

Imagination Stage– April 6-10, 2020
(4908 Auburn Avenue Bethesda, MD 20814)
Imagination Stage offers week-long Spring Break camps jam-packed with acting, dance, musical theatre, and creative drama for students in grades K-12 to enjoy during their days off of school.

MSA– April 6-10, 2020
(Hoover MS, 8810 Postoak Rd, Potomac, MD 20854)
Spring Break multi-sports and enrichment camp is designed by sports champions to help young athletes realize their optimal performance in their favorite sports. MSA offers a spectacular multi-sport & enrichment camp providing a well-rounded experience combining learning and fun, to build fond memories that will last a lifetime. Before and after-care available.

Dynamite Gymnastics– April 6-10 & April 13, 2020
(4956 Boiling Brook Pkwy, North Bethesda, MD 20852)
(16814 Oakmont Ave. Gaithersburg, MD 20877)
Need a safe, fun place for your kids to get their energy out? Never fear, Dynamite offers “School’s Out” day camps! Kids will enjoy a variety of activities including hours of gymnastics instruction, free play, arts and crafts, and games! 

Bolt Parkour– April 6-10 & April 13, 2020
(4950 Boiling Brook Pkwy. North Bethesda, MD 20852)
Need a place for your kids to get all that energy out during vacation and days off from school? Bring them to Bolt for an awesome camp experience including parkour instruction, races, games, and free play! Bolt offers day camp programs for kids and teens ages 6 and up.

The Agility Center– April 6-10 & April 13, 2020
(4990 Boiling Brook Pkwy. North Bethesda, MD 20852)
Need a safe, fun place for your kids to get their energy out? Never fear, send them to “school’s out” day camps! Kids will enjoy a variety of activities including hours of obstacle course, trampoline and tumbling instruction, practice/play time, arts and crafts, and games. Offering different options: full day, half day morning or afternoon, with or without lunch, and before and after care.

Glen Echo Aquarium– April 6-10, 2020
(7300 MacArthur Blvd Glen Echo, MD 20812)
The Glen Echo Park Aquarium (GEPA) offers spring break camps (single day) for children ages 4-7 and 8-12. These are 6 hour long camps that include exploring the outdoors, discovering the aquatic and terrestrial world, performing science experiments, and creating art and crafts to enhance learning.

Valley Mill– April 6-10 & April 13-17, 2020
(15101 Seneca Rd Germantown, MD 20874)
Valley Mill Camp offers a Spring Break Camp for children ages 5 to 14.
Weather permitting, they do their usual fun activities at camp: kayaking and canoeing, archery & air rifle, rock climbing, group games, playing in the creek, and hikes. If the weather doesn’t cooperate, campers check out indoor adventures. Transportation will be from pick up points in nearby Montgomery County and DC.

Silver Stars Gymnastics– April 6-18, 2020
(2701 Pittman Dr. Silver Spring, MD 20910)
(14201 Woodcliff Ct. Bowie, MD 20720)
Choose one day or all week, half day or full day. They offer three camps for kids 3.5-15 at both locations.

Adventure Theatre– April 6-10, 2020
(7300 MacArthur Blvd. Glen Echo, MD 20812)
Send your kids to come play with Adventure Theatre MTC where they will have a full day of theatrical activities, afternoon snack.  You can choose one day or the full week.  Camp is for children in grades K-5.

The Children’s Art Studio– April 6-9, 2020
(Bethesda Elementary School: 7600 Arlington Rd Bethesda, MD 20814)
Over the course of each week, kids ages 5-10 will work on drawing, painting, sculpture, collage, and printing. Your child will have a blast and bring home beautiful, artwork made with a wide range of high-quality materials. Time will be spent each day playing outside, reading, quietly drawing and looking at illustrated books and art history monographs. The bulk of the day will be spent making art, however. Children will receive instructive lessons on technique and have time to work on open-ended projects, all in an upbeat, supportive environment.

Virginia

The St. James– April 6-10, 2020
(6805 Industrial Rd Springfield, VA 22151)
All sports, all day. From basketball and flag football to dance, gymnastics, swimming and lacrosse, these camps are designed for the ultimate sports enthusiast. They are offering 5 different camps! Experience a state of the art facility and expert instruction. Full day and half day options.

Tea with Mrs. B– April 6-10, 2020
(136 W Jefferson St. Falls Church, VA 22046)
They offer a one of a kind camp experience for kids ages 4-12. Daily activities include: high tea with healthy snacks, crafts and games, exercise at the local park, dance and dress up. They also always afford time for good-old fashioned play, too. By becoming part of the camp, your child will be entitled to an on-going skill building program, honing good manners, proper etiquette and social graces. Broaden your child’s experiences by giving them the gift of comportment while having fun.

Congressional Camp: An Adventure a Day– April 6-9, 2020
(3229 Sleepy Hollow Rd Falls Church, VA 22042)
–Vacation Club: Come join the fun with our Great Adventures team! Children in PreK – grade 2 will love hanging out with their friends and exploring everything our campus has to offer, including our playgrounds, computer labs, and creek walks. Each day, campers will do a fun art, science, or cooking project led by our creative staff who are known for developing a safe, nurturing environment.
–Spring Explorers: Do you enjoy taking adventurous field trips with friends? Each day, children in grade 1-9th grade will visit a different destination in the Greater D.C. area. Exciting trips in the past have included places like local parks, the National Air and Space Museum, putt-putt, Wolf Trap, and water parks, just to name a few. Come experience this spring edition of our popular travel camp programs!
–Colonials & Coasters: Join a 4 day, 3 night Spring Break trip! Campers in grads 3-9 will start by visiting the Williamsburg area to go to historic Williamsburg to explore how Colonial Americans lived and worked before starting the Coasters portion of our trip by spending a full day at Busch Gardens. The group will end its trip by traveling to Kings Dominion to tackling the many Coasters there.

Robot Works– April 6-10, 2020
(8992 Fern Park Drive, Burke, VA 22015)
Let’s build robots during Spring Break! Design, build, and program robots each day. Learn robot design, construction and programming using Mindstorms EV3 or the Arduino microcontroller, including mechanical structure, motors, gears, power, sensors, and much more. Before and after-care available.

Ever Wonder Camp– April 6-10, 2020 & April 13, 2020
(Mount Olivet United Methodist Church: 1500 North Glebe Road Arlington, VA)
Your children in PreK-grade 5 will jump into a time machine and travel back in time to “dig through the decades.”  In this awesome camp they’ll explore the science, technology, engineering, art and math behind the decades.  They’ll twist, shout, doo-wop and be-bop through the 1950’s, create the fashions of the hippies in the 1960’s, love the lava lamp through the 1970’s, “Phone home” in the 1980’s, make your own gadgets in the 1990’s and so much more! Before and after-care option available.
–Backyard Bash Camp on April 13 is the camp’s tradition to celebrate the last day of our school-year camps and this year it is going to be a backyard bash!
There will be a photo booth, a moonbounce, s’mores and play lots of minute to win it games.  This you do not want to miss!

Arts on the Horizon: Stories Come to Life: Under the Big Top– April 6-10, 2020
(1801 N. Quaker Ln. Alexandria, VA 22302)
Step right up and join the greatest show on Earth! Will you become a clown? Will you tame the lions? Maybe you’ll stand in the center as the ringleader! In this creative drama camp, you will use your actor tools (body, voice, and imagination) to bring the Circus to your town! Camp is for children ages 3-6.

Mason Community Arts Academy– April 6-10, 2020
(4260 Chain Bridge Rd Fairfax, VA 22030)
Taught by Acting for Young People faculty, young actors ages 5-12 will experience a variety of games, activities, and projects from our regular theater curriculum of acting, voice, and movement. Various workshops may include improvisation, musical theater, writing a short play – and much more! 

Browne Summer Camp– March 23-27, 2020
(5917 Telegraph Road, Alexandria, VA 22310)
Warmer weather is just around the corner! Campers in PreK- grade 6 will indulge in one week of fun with a variety of indoor and outdoor activities and field trips. Before and after-care options available.

Ashburn Ice House– April 6-10, 2020
(21595 Smith Switch Rd Ashburn, VA 20147)
Learn to Skate USA Camp. Perfect for beginners or intermediate skaters. Campers will enjoy a daily lesson, ice activities and time to practice their skills. Half and full-day options.

Encore Stage and Studio- April 6-10 & April 13-17, 2020
(4000 Lorcom Ln Arlington, VA 22207)
Journey with Encore as they explore the exciting music, movement, and madness of popular stories! Each day they focus on a new theme. Students in grade Kindergarten – 2nd grade will enjoy a day of theatre games, crafts, creative activities, and storytelling in a safe and supportive environment. Students in 3rd – 5th grade will work together to create a brand new play in just one camp day! Using their imaginations, students will develop the script and story, create the setting, and star in the show. This never before seen production will be performed at the end of the day for family and friends.

Mount Vernon Community Children’s Theatre: May The Force Be With You– April 6-10, 2020
(Heritage Presbyterian Church: 8503 Fort Hunt Rd, Alexandria VA 22308)
Join a galaxy far, far away as they bring the world of Star Wars to life through theatre games, crafts, and the creation of their own Star Wars play!  Channel your inner Princess Leia, Darth Vader, Rey or Yoda to bring to life the strong, dynamic characters of this galactic series.  Learn how to communicate with others, work as a team, develop story-telling skills, and expand your actor’s toolbox in this fun filled spring break experience.  K-8th Grades.  Camps are led by professional teaching artists experienced in working with kids and teens.

SkateQuest– April 6-10, 2020
(1800 Michael Faraday Ct., Reston, VA 20190)
For the child who can’t get enough of the ice. Camp includes ice skating lessons, ice painting, broom ball and an end of camp show. Ages 4.5-12. Friday is a half-day for all, before and after-care available Mon-Thur only.

Spring Break Camp at Dulles SportsPlex– April 6-10, 2020
(21610 Atlantic Blvd. Sterling, VA 20166)
Bring your child ages 4-13, to The Michael & Son Sportsplex At Dulles for a week of fun this spring break camp. If your child enjoys sports or wants to try new sports, this is the camp for you. Your child will have a week of fun, learning and playing sports that might include flag football, soccer, wiffleball, volleyball, basketball, kickball, team handball and others. Drop-in’s are welcome, half day and full day options are available.

Washington, DC

The Children’s Art Studio– April 13-17, 2020
(Capital Memorial Church: 3150 Chesapeake St NW
Washington, DC 20008)
Over the course of each week, kids ages 5-10 will work on drawing, painting, sculpture, collage, and printing. Your child will have a blast and bring home beautiful, artwork made with a wide range of high-quality materials. Time will be spent each day playing outside, reading, quietly drawing and looking at illustrated books and art history monographs. The bulk of the day will be spent making art, however. Children will receive instructive lessons on technique and have time to work on open-ended projects, all in an upbeat, supportive environment.

DC Way Soccer Camp– April 13-17, 2020
(Tyler Elementary School: 1001 G Street SE, 20003)
(RFK Fields: 401 Oklahoma Ave NE, 20002)
Spring into soccer with DC Way’s Spring Break Camp! DC Way’s camp provides players the opportunity to work on technical soccer skills as well as participate in fun games. The DC Way team leads energetic games that combine learning and fun! Your kid will get the most out of their spring break while developing both soccer and cognitive skills in just a few days! Half day, full day, before and after-care options!

HoopEd– March 23-27, 2020 & April 13-17, 2020
(Various locations)
Basketball and all sports camp for kids ages 5-13. After-care is available. 

Spring Safari Day Camp at The National Zoo– April 6-10 & April 13-17, 2020
(3001 Connecticut Ave, NW Washington, DC 20008)
Spring is in the air, but flowers aren’t the only things blooming. So are new programs at the Smithsonian’s National Zoo! This spring break, sign your child up for FONZ’s Spring Safari Day Camp! Each of the Spring Safari programs explores the lives, habitats and conservation of animals around the world. Week-long sessions include exciting hands-on activities, lessons, craft projects, science experiments and walks through the Zoo. There’s no better way to spend your spring break than with Friends of the National Zoo! Before and after-care option available.

Anna Banana Art– April 13-17, 2020
(3207 S Street, NW Washington, DC 20007)
Camp begins with an inspired art project  such as Monet or van Gogh. A break for snack, and weather permitting, we take it outside for some fresh air, blowing giant bubbles, running around and games at the Jelleff field across the street.  Back to the studio to complete projects or free choice with clay, drawing with pens, pencils or markers. Camp is for 4 -8 year olds and runs from 9:30am-12:30pm. 

The Theatre Lab– April 13-17, 2020
(733 8th Street NW. Washington, DC 20001)
Spring Break Camps, modeled on The Theatre Lab’s award-winning Summer Acting Camps for Kids, are perfect for children grades 1-6, who enjoy being creative and making new friends, and are designed to be fun for novices as well as kids who have already been bitten by the drama bug. Before and after-care option available.

Home Run Baseball Camp– April 13-17, 2020
(Friendship Park Recreation Center: 4500 Van Ness St NW, Washington, DC 20016)
Coach Julia Heimstra and an experienced co-ed staff will lead a high energy camp with the same format as the summer camp at AU Park in NW, Washington, DC. Full ground ball and fly ball square drill, over one hundred swings in batting practice, and two full games per day. Groups will be broken up by age and teams will be fair and games will be competitive. Full and half day options for kids ages 4-12.

Related Posts:
Summer camps for 2020

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Filed Under: Camp, Spring Tagged: camp, DC, spring break, virginia

The King’s Speech at National Theatre + GIVEAWAY

January 21, 2020

The King’s Speech will be at The National Theatre February 11 – 16, 2020.

The King’s Speech is based on the true story of King George VI’s struggle with a speech impediment and the friendship he formed with his unconventional speech therapist, Lionel Logue. With the Nazi threat looming and civil unrest at home, royal secrets explode around the King as he’s thrust onto the world stage. David Seidler’s original play – which inspired the 2010 Oscar-winning film starring Colin Firth and Geoffrey Rush – will make its long-awaited U.S. debut in a production The Mail proclaims “A right royal treat.”

This show is recommended for ages 13 and up. Find tickets here.

Giveaway: Enter to win a pair of tickets to opening night – Tuesday, February 11th at 7:30pm. Comment on our Facebook page with a favorite theatre show you have seen at National Theatre or a favorite in general. Winner will be announced February 1, 2020.

Contest Regulations
Anyone associated with Allied (promo partners, employees, etc.) are not eligible to enter the contest. Winners cannot win on multiple outlets.

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Filed Under: Date Night, Giveaway Tagged: DC, national theatre

Byrdsmiles Orthodontics in Tenleytown provides orthodontic care for patients of all ages

December 2, 2019

Dr. Sonia Talley is a board-certified orthodontist at Byrdsmiles Orthodontics. Dr. Talley is going to offer her knowledge with Beltway Bambinos as it relates to orthodontics for children and adolescents and we are so pleased to share this information with you. Her first blog post is about orthodontics and how the field has progressed and improved thanks to advances in research and technology. The following post is written by Dr. Sonia Talley.

Dr. Sonia Talley and Dr. Kathryn Clark with the Byrdsmiles Team

Our Philosophy:

At Byrdsmiles Orthodontics we provide orthodontic care for patients of all ages. From a first phase of treatment that can begin around age 8 to a more comprehensive treatment to resolve crowding and misalignment in adults. We love treating the whole family!

Our philosophy is to take a conservative, research-based, preventative approach to orthodontic care. Each patient has a customized treatment plan developed. The plan takes into consideration the patients dental anatomy, skeletal structure, facial proportions and smile. It is through careful planning that we can set our patients up for a lifetime of excellent oral health.

Dr. Sonia Talley and Dr. Kathryn Clark

What’s changed in Orthodontics?

Advances in technology have changed the way we drive, cook and even make phone calls. Life wouldn’t be the same without a rear view camera, an Instant Pot and Facetime. Forward strides of similar magnitude have changed the field of orthodontics, making your children’s orthodontic experience more comfortable and easy.

In order to move teeth a consistent force is needed, teeth don’t mind whether that force comes from a clear aligner such as invisalign or from braces. With the advent of Invisalign we as orthodontists have more tools to provide our patients with happy healthy smiles.

Do you think your experience with braces is a great way to prep your kids for their first orthodontist visit? Think again! Much has changed since the days where stainless steel wires were used that exerted high forces on teeth causing none too easily forgotten pain and soreness. Research has shown us that these traditionally used high forces were not ideal for the health of the teeth so they’ve been upgraded to gentle, consistent forces. With the advent of nitinol; a memory form wire, teeth are gently guided into better alignment while minimizing discomfort.

Before and after photo shows what a difference orthodontic treatment can make

Why early treatment?   

Ever wonder why age 7 is when the American Association of Orthodontists recommends a child have their first orthodontic exam? This is an age when children are in the early mixed dentition i.e. they have some baby teeth and some permanent teeth. At this visit we typically procure a Panoramic x-ray from your child’s dentist. This x-ray contains a wealth of information, it can tell us if the adult teeth are developing properly and on a good path of eruption, if there are missing permanent teeth or if there is crowding of permanent teeth in the bone that we cannot see with the naked eye. Using this imaging we are better able to determine if early treatment is indicated or if it’s best to monitor growth and development.

Panoramic x-ray of a patient in the mixed-dentition. Note the missing permanent lower left second premolar.

There’s been a shift in the way we, as orthodontists, approach treatment. Forty years ago it was typical to wait for all the permanent teeth to erupt before initiating treatment. Often times, crowding was so severe that the teeth struggled to erupt and in cases of severe crowding, extraction of permanent teeth was recommended. Nowadays, we take a more proactive approach and create a harmonious skeletal structure through growth modification. The key is to initiate treatment at the quintessential time, when the permanent teeth are at the ideal stage of development and the skeletal structure is still in formation. This occurs in pre-pubertal children, where the bones of the jaw are not yet fused.

8 year-old patient after getting her braces at Byrdsmiles

In this small window of opportunity with the use of partial braces, expanders and space maintainers we are able to create more space and preserve existing space to alleviate crowding and allow the developing teeth to erupt. I liken this as needing to create a parking space for each tooth to pull into, similar to a car in a garage. By setting ourselves up for success in this way, teeth erupt into healthy bony and soft tissue support. While not every child needs a first phase of treatment, when indicated, it sets us up for success and lifetime of healthy teeth.

We at Byrdsmiles Orthodontics would love the opportunity to get to know you and answer your questions. Please call us to schedule a complimentary new patient exam. You can also find us on Google, Facebook, and Rate a biz.

Location: 4110 River Rd. NW Washington, DC 20016
Phone: (202) 686-2108

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Filed Under: Sponsored Post Tagged: byrd smiles, DC, dr. clark, dr. talley

Ice skating, holiday light displays and outdoor fun this holiday season in Washington, DC

November 19, 2019

Get outdoors this winter season; ice skating, light displays and more fun is in this post! Bundle up, grab your thermos of hot cocoa and enjoy the season.


Outdoor ice rinks
Most rinks offer ice skating lessons in addition to skate rentals

Canal Park Ice Rink– 202 M Street, SE Washington, DC 20003
November – February and open on holidays

National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden Ice Rink– National Mall at 7th Street and Constitution Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20408
November 15 – March 15

Washington Harbour Ice Rink– 3050 K St NW, Washington, DC 20007                    November 18 – March 15 and open on holidays

Silver Spring Veteran’s Plaza Ice Rink– 8523 Fenton St., Silver Spring, MD 20910
October 29 – ?

Rockville Town Square Ice Rink– 131 Gibbs St., Rockville, MD 20850
Mid-October – mid-March

Wharf Ice Rink– 960 Wharf Street SW, Washington, DC 20024
November 26 – late February and open on holidays

Pentagon Row– 1201 S Joyce St, Arlington, VA 22202
October 25 – mid-March

Outdoor festivities, light displays and more

Holidays on the Harbor– Now – Dec.
Holiday movies and fireworks takes place each Saturday through December. Be sure and warm up inside the Gaylord Resort, see the hanging tree and Christmas Village and then bundle up to check out ICE!. Get your tickets in advance.

Winter Walk of Lights at Meadowlark Botanical Gardens– Nov. 8 – Jan. 5
Bring the family to enjoy the magical Winter Walk of lights in Vienna, Virginia. The garden is transformed into a half-mile, animated walk of lights. Revisit perennial favorites such as the Lakeside Lights, the Fountain of Lights, and the Holiday Nature Walk – and look for new displays each year. Put on your walking shoes and bring the family to experience a Northern Virginia festive tradition. Round out your visit by roasting marshmallows, and sipping on hot beverages by the fire. (Available for purchase at Light Refreshments).

The Polar Express Train Ride– Nov. 16 & 17, 23 & 24, 29 & 30
Dec. 1

Cold weather may be just around the corner, but so is The Polar Express! Don’t miss out on the journey of a lifetime as scenes from this celebrated holiday classic come to life before your very eyes! The conductor will punch your golden tickets and make sure you make it to The North Pole right on time, but not before you’ve enjoyed hot chocolate, cookies, and receiving the first gift of Christmas from Santa Claus himself! So don’t wait – get your tickets to The Polar Express Train Ride 2019 at the B&O Railroad Museum: where Baltimore BELIEVES!

Enchant Christmas at Nats Park– Nov. 22 – Dec. 29
Unwrap new traditions and make memories big and small as you wind your way through a luminescent land of beautiful arches, larger-than-life sculptures and decadent delights. Welcome to Enchant. Where magical memories are made. 2.5 million Christmas lights in 90,000 square feet of pure holiday magic with incredible food and beverage to accompany the experience. This is the World’s Largest Holiday Light Maze and Market debuting at Nationals Park. Tickets for Enchant start at just $19.00, and include access to the 200-foot long Ice-Skating Trail, Ice Bars, Artisanal Holiday Market.

Garden of Lights at Brookside Gardens– Nov. 22 – Dec. 31 (closed Nov. 25-28 & Dec. 24 & 25)
Step into a magical winter wonderland illuminated with more than one million dazzling colorful lights shaped into hand-crafted, original art forms of flowers, animals and other natural elements. Stroll from garden to garden enjoying twinkling tree forms, fountains, sparkling snowflakes overhead and more.

Bulls Run Festival of Lights- Nov. 22 – Jan. 5
Experience the Bull Run Festival of Lights, 2.5 miles illuminated by holiday light displays. Drive the festival route from the comfort of your car; turn out your headlights and just follow the magical glow. After viewing the lights, bring your family and friends to the holiday village to enjoy rides, refreshments, and of course, photos with Santa Claus. The festival happens annually at Bull Run Regional Park in Centreville, Virginia. Avoid crowds and go Mon-Thurs at a discounted rate.

Merriweather Symphony of Lights– Nov. 27 – Jan. 1
The Symphony of Lights has been a time-honored Howard County holiday tradition set in historic Merriweather Post Pavilion. Made up of more than 300,000 bulbs, this family-oriented spectacular is a dazzling display of larger-than-life animated and stationary holiday light creations. With the addition of new lights and a refreshed course, your time through the twinkling, winding path will surely be a night to remember!

Seasons Greenings at The U.S. Botanic Gardens– Nov. 28 – Jan. 5
Explore botanic gardens from Hawaii to Maine in this year’s holiday show. The best times to visit are weekdays early in December or on select Tuesday and Thursday evenings in December when the Conservatory is open until 8 pm with live seasonal music. Aside from these extended holiday hours, the Conservatory is open every day of the year, from 10am-5pm, free of charge.

Zoo Lights at The National Zoo– Nov. 29 – Jan. 1 (exception: Dec. 24, 25 & 31) hours are 5:00pm-9:00pm
Join the thousands of visitors who make ZooLights, powered by Pepco, a part of their annual holiday tradition. A free event, ZooLights includes live music performances, tasty winter treats and plenty of opportunities for holiday shopping. More than 500,000 environmentally friendly LED lights transform the Zoo into a winter wonderland! New this year: enjoy dozens of large, glowing animal lanterns and stroll through thousands of reflecting lights as part of the interactive ⁠art exhibit called “Entre Les Rangs.”

Christmas at Mount Vernon– Nov. 29 – Dec. 31
Christmas past meets Christmas present at George Washington’s estate. Just as the Washingtons celebrated the holiday with family and friends, visitors can start a new tradition of visiting Mount Vernon this holiday season.

Festival of Lights at Watkins Regional Park– Nov. 29 – Jan. 1
Bring a little twinkle to your holidays. Don’t miss this spectacular holiday drive-through event featuring more than 2.5 million twinkling lights! This year’s Festival features fun new displays.You won’t want to miss the giant, 54-foot LED musical tree!

Winter Lights at Seneca Creek State Park– Nov. 29 – Dec. 31 (closed on Dec. 25)
The wondrous themed display of lights at Seneca Creek State Park is a 3.5 mile drive through the enchanted setting taking you past more than 450 illuminated displays and 65 animated vignettes that light up the night.

Festival of Trees– Nov. 29 – Dec. 1
A three-day, family event featuring more than 800 uniquely decorated holiday trees, wreaths and gingerbread houses, live entertainment, over 100 gift boutiques and Santa himself. All gathered to support the children of Kennedy Krieger Institute at the Maryland State Fairgrounds.

City Center Tree Lighting– Nov. 30 at 6:00pm
The evening will include a joyful music performance by The Washington Chorus, balloon artists, face painters, holiday activities and more. NBC4’s Eun Yang hosts the official tree lighting ceremony and countdown. Enjoy the dazzling 75-foot tree, visit two resident 25-foot reindeer, and capture the spirit of the holidays with a photo under the Palmer Alley Dream Closet display!

Lower Georgia Avenue Main Street Holiday Lights – Dec. 1 – 31
Check out this new month-long community event. The businesses along Lower Georgia Avenue Main Street and the 800 Block of Upshur Street will be decked out with holiday lights. As part of the fun, the local businesses will be competing for the chance to win one of seven different awards for their Holiday Lights displays, and will be organizing amazing holiday events, activities, and promotions throughout the month. Whether you’re a local resident or just visiting for a few days—stop by Lower Georgia Avenue Main Street Holiday Lights to explore, shop, and play this holiday season.

Union Station Norweigian Christmas Tree Lighting– Dec. 3, 2019 at 6:00pm
In the Main Hall of Union Station, a consortium of partners will present the annual Norwegian Christmas Tree Lighting to the people of Washington, D.C. This beloved holiday event, which attracted 5,000 guests in 2018, is presented free to the public and will feature performances by The String Queens, whose members have collaborated with artists such as Ledisi, Janelle Monáe, and Common, and the Washington Performing Arts Children of the Gospel Choir.

National Christmas Tree on the Ellipse– Dec. 5 – Jan. 1
The National Christmas Tree Lighting ceremony is on December 5 and kicks off the holiday celebrations. You can view the lighting on TV on Dec. 9. Musical groups from Washington D.C. and across the country provide holiday entertainment to the countless visitors for a one of a kind holiday experience set against the backdrop of the National Christmas Tree. The tree is lit each day at 4:30pm and will stay up through Jan.1.

Festival of Lights at the Mormon Temple– Dec. 5 – Jan. 4
As one of the D.C. area’s great community traditions, the Festival features free performances nightly in the comfortable, state-of-the-art theater located in the Visitors’ Center while the Temple grounds glow with 650,000 lights.

Christmas Village at Leesburg Animal Park– December 6, 7, 13, 14, 20, 21, 22 & 23 from 6:00-9:00pm
Photos with Santa Claus from 6:30-8:30pm, Christmas arts & crafts room, live animal encounters, holiday photos with live animals, kid’s indoor play zone and more, bonfire & marshmallow roasting, thousands of outdoor holiday lights, nativity scene, animal petting & feeding, Christmas tree & wreath sales from local farms.

Georgetown Glow– Dec. 6 – Jan. 5
Experience the sparkle of the season at Georgetown GLOW, the region’s only curated exhibition of outdoor public light art installations. Set against the historic backdrop of DC’s oldest neighborhood, it’s a whole new way to shine.

20th Anniversary Alexandria Holiday Boat Parade of Lights– Dec. 7 at 5:30 pm
View dozens of brightly lit boats cruise along one mile of the Potomac River shoreline. Enjoy dockside festivities from 2pm to 8pm in Waterfront Park including a pop-up beer garden from Port City Brewing Company and holiday music and giveaways from 97.1 WASH-FM. Take part in hands-on activities including a Letters to Santa postcard station from paper goods boutique Penny Post, a holiday craft activity from AR Workshop Alexandria and a bookmark making station from Old Town Books. Enjoy savory meatballs from Pizzeria Paradiso and a hot chocolate bar from Dolci Gelati. On the Alexandria City Marina, Riverside Taco Company presents a Parade Day Patio Party with hot cider and bottomless bites included in admission. At 3:30pm, Santa and Mrs. Claus will arrive by fireboat at the Alexandria City Marina to take photos with children and families at the annual Torpedo Factory Art Center Holiday Festival.

The District’s Holiday Boat Parade– Dec. 7, 2019 – 6:00pm-9:00pm
Celebrate the holidays and watch beautifully decorated boats pass by The Wharf. Get into the spirit as you decorate ornaments or warm up by the Camp Wharf fire pit while making a s’more. Go ice skating and sample winter drinks at the Waterfront Beer and Wine Garden. And bring the whole family to meet Santa at the lighted Christmas tree and make memories during this annual DC tradition. 

Holly Trolley Fest at National Capital Trolley Museum– Dec. 7-8, 14-15, & 21-22
Celebrate the season with toy trains and Santa aboard the streetcars from 12:30pm-4:30pm, and on December 28 & 29 without Santa. Also see the Winter Wonder Garden and Winter in Washington displays.

Light Yards– On display Dec. 7 – Jan. 4
The DC region’s premier outdoor public light art installation, returns for its fourth year at The Yards, with two must-see, worldwide traveling light installations, The Pool, by New York-based Jen Lewin Studio and Angels of Freedom, by Israel-based OGE Group. The Poolwill invite visitors to hop, skip, and jump across 106 interactive circular pads of light, roughly 3 feet in diameter and 2.5 inches tall. As multiple visitors play in The Pool, their movements will come together to create a giant canvas of shifting and fading colors in mesmerizing patterns.A beautiful and social sculptural installation, Angels of Freedom aims to reveal the inner beauties of everyone by visually turning visitors into real-life angels. Visitors will be invited to pose with five giant, neon-colored wings and white halos as a reminder that everybody counts and deserves love.

Ice Maze at City Center DC– Dec. 13 – 15
Get lost in the a-MAZE-ing, magic of the holidays with CityCenterDC’s icy tradition. This year, CityCenterDC is building the largest clear ice maze in the United States built with 110,000 pounds of ice. Washingtonians will not want to escape the towering seven foot walls of this chilly challenge.

Christmas Caroling at the Wharf– Dec. 21 from 5:00pm-7:00pm
Enjoy music from strolling Christmas carolers and a meet-and-greet with Santa and one of his elves!  More info to come.  

Related posts
Holiday shows, ballets and concerts
Holiday tea
Skiing with families
Winter camp, classes and groups

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Filed Under: Holiday Options, Music, Outdoor Play, Winter Tagged: DC, ice skating, winter

Family fun pancake battle fundraiser supporting Generation Hope

October 7, 2019


On Sunday,November 17, 2019 {NEW DATE} head to Nationals Park for a festive afternoon celebrating education, family, and delicious food for a family-friendly fundraiser supporting Generation Hope! Enjoy pancake masterpieces from the region’s leading “education celebrities,” a full brunch and mimosa bar, activities for kids, lawn games, the festivities of Nats Park, and a silent auction—all while supporting the life-changing work of Generation Hope. This is a family-friendly event, and children 5 and under are FREE!

Generation Hope surrounds motivated teen parents and their children with the mentors, emotional support, and financial resources that they need to thrive in college and kindergarten, thereby driving a two-generation solution to poverty.

  • WHEN: Sunday, November 17, 2019 from 11:00am – 1:30pm {NEW DATE}
  • WHERE: National’s Park: 1500 S Capitol St SE, Washington, DC 20003
  • WHY: A fundraiser to support Generation Hope, a DC nonprofit that surrounds motivated teen parents and their children with the mentors, emotional support, and financial resources that they need to thrive in college and kindergarten, thereby driving a two-generation solution to poverty. 
  • BUY TICKETS, starting at $20
  • MORE INFORMATION

With excitement the following local education champions will be joining the fun as pancake team chefs: 

  • Rushern L. Baker III, Former Prince George’s County Executive
  • Dr. DeRionne Pollard, President of Montgomery College 
  • Hans Riemer, Councilmember At-Large, Montgomery County

Look forward to seeing you there!

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Filed Under: Sponsored Post Tagged: DC, fundraiser, generation hope, nationals park, pancake battle, Washington

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