Storytime: For Tots Whose Imaginations Run Wild

Do the stories made up by your little one rival the Brothers Grimm? 

If so, foster this creativity into non-mischievous channels!  These books are great examples of characters who use their imaginations and creative viewpoints to their advantage.

These tales will inspire their imaginations to take flight!


The Gruffalo, by Julia Donaldson

This story is a best seller throughout the UK, and upon reading it you'll know why.  Its a delightful tale of a little mouse who uses its imagination to outsmart predators of all shapes and sizes.  The colorful drawings and intriguing storyline will delight your kids and keep them entertained.

Frederick, by Leo Lionni

Some tales just get better with age.  This recipient of the Caldecott Honor Medal is a book that has amused children for years.  A little mouse, once disparaged as a day dreamer and a poet, becomes the greatest asset to his community when he's able to use his creativity and imagination to help them through the long cold winter.  Stated simply - its a great story, with great pictures & a great message.

 Abuela, by Arthur Dorros

While out with her grandmother a young girl wonders - what if I could fly?  And off they soar, traveling throughout a bustling city.  The mixed media illustrations are wonderfully detailed and the use of Spanish woven throughout the story adds an exciting educational aspect.

Brookline Cherry Blossom Festival: Lets Picnic with a Parachute!

  

It's hot, it's cold, it's hot, it's cold again -mother nature can't seem to make up her mind, but spring has sprung and it's time for the annual Cherry Blossom Picnic in Brookline!


So on April 30, 2016 lets picnic in style -- this is Brookline, right!  We'll never go back to using our has-been sheets and blankets, this year we're using Fat Boy's Knäpsäck.  It's durable, easy-to-clean, super cute and adds a pop of color to any outdoor meal!

Storytime: Books for all the Tiny Dancers

If your little ones cant keep their feet still once the music starts, try adding these books to your storytime rotation.

Miss Tutu's Star, by Leslea Newman.
Little Selena loves to dance.  When enrolled in Miss Tutu's School of Dance she learns new choreography and prepares for an upcoming recital.  The book provides great messages related to working towards goals and overcoming fears.  This book is really quite funny and the illustrations are sure to put a smile on your little ones' faces! 

How Can You Dance, by Rick Walton
This is a great book of rhymes and dance inspiration.  It is full of colorful and creative drawings, and the author encourages children to create their own dance steps while moving like trees, foxes, frogs and more.  Get ready to dance like a kangaroo - hop hop hop!

My Name is Not Alexander, by Jennifer Fosberry
Through conversations with his father, a young boy lets his imagination run wild as he takes on the personas of his greatest heros - including Fred Astaire.  " I am FRED... the greatest, smoothest dancer there ever was!".  The concept, colors and content are all top notch.  And while its far away, keep it in mind as a great Fathers Day book selection.

Flora and the Flamingo by Molly Idle
This sweet book needs no words! Through interactive storytelling, Flora and her new friend learn about friendship and dance loved by tiny dances from coast to coast! Your little ones will love mimicking the graceful moves of this duo.

Love This: Upcycle with Box Play

Box Play stickers in action!

How many times have you put that same old dinged up toy in front of your kids understanding why they dont want to play with it again?  But at the same time, you look around any given room in your home, and you know there is no need for more toys.

While waiting out time to reintroduce the same toys anew, try these great stickers from Box Play.  Apply to the trash you find in your home, and presto-change-o, a new toy appears!  Such a great idea and such a practical way to teach kids about reusing and re-purposing.

Real Parties: Curious George 1st Birthday

Birthday Boy ready to party!

Curious George was an obvious choice for KJ's parents when deciding a theme for their soon-to-be one year old.  The party was enjoyed by all, especially the birthday boy.

Are you curious too? Read & see more after the jump!

Plan Ahead! Marathon Monday (April 18th)

Its that time of year again - celebrate Boston Strong!

The energy in Boston is palpable and the bright yellow finish line is freshly painted across Boylston Street.  Yes, the Boston Marathon takes place Monday, April 18th.  The Boston Marathon is not just to be celebrated by the runners, Beacon Street Baby suggests you turn it into a great family friendly day!

Breakfast:  Its not often that we get a bonafide excuse to indulge in a carbohydrate laden meal.  Sure, we're not running in the marathon, but in the spirit of the marathon, why not start your day with a Carbo-load Breakfast Burrito!  Tortilla, eggs and potatoes - totally delicious and sure to give you energy throughout the day.

Storytime: The First Marathon: The Legend of Pheidippides, by Susan Reynolds.  Marathons existed long before they came to Boston 120 years ago.  The marathon tradition is rooted in ancient Greek society.  This illustrated children's book provides the story of Pheidippides, the original marathon runner, in a manner that children will understand and enjoy.

Playdate: Heartbreak Hill Helpers.  The road race of the Boston Marathon consists of 26.2 grueling miles, and the most infamous segment is Heartbreak Hill.  This is the perfect spot to help the runners by cheering them on.  Help your little ones make signs to root on the runners, put on your best marathon gear, and cheer on the runners.  Your support will help them conquer Heartbreak Hill, and your kids will love being part of the action.  If you can't make it to Heartbreak Hill, consult the Spectator Guide and find a space & time that will work for you and your family.

Dinner: A delicious meal that can be made ahead of time is the perfect answer after a long day of marathon celebrations.  Pastitsio is best described as a Greek Lasagna, and this version is delicious and nutritious with spinach and chard.

Late-Night Cap:  Boston-based Sam Adams has an annual tradition of releasing a special edition brew for the marathon - 26.2 Boston Brew.  Its a light German beer called a Gose, and its the perfect ending to a perfect marathon day!

Throwback Thursday (#TBT)! Photo Shoot, 2012 Marathon Print

We at Beacon Street Baby love a good Throwback Thursday (#TBT)!

Check out below for our very first Marathon print back in 2012 -- my how time flies!

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Beacon Street Baby had a successful photo shoot today for our 2012 Marathon print!

The beautiful spring weather made White Stadium in Boston's Franklin Park the perfect background for this track & field shoot.  Here's a glimpse at some of the photographs:

But alas, not all pictures made the cut. We hope you enjoy these out takes as much as we do - sometimes even a fussy baby can be cute!