Schleich USA is celebrating their 85th anniversary with a celebration that is larger than life. The leading manufacturer of animal figurines debuted a Times Square billboard featuring imaginative stories shared by thousands of fans throughout the year. Also highlighted are newly unveiled photos from famed toy photographer Mitchel Wu who helped depict stories shared through a contest that asked fans to share stories inspired by imaginative playtime with Schleich.
“Schleich figurines and playsets inspire open-ended, imaginative play, but we know that what parents see is very different from what children see when engaged in this critical type of play,” said Annie Laurie Zomermaand, Chief Commercial Officer for Schleich USA. “We’ve received thousands of stories from fans over the last 12 months, and are thrilled to celebrate their imaginations at the crossroads of the world!”
After receiving hundreds of amazing video stories earlier this fall, Paxton, age 7 from Missouri, Addison age 13 from California and JoJo age 7 from Maryland were named the winners following a public vote. Visit Schleich’s Power of Imagination campaign page to see their entry videos, reactions and the photos created by Wu.
Since the winners and Schleich’s global fans were unable to travel to New York City to see the billboard, Schleich hosted a virtual viewing party, led by Patti Murin who originated the role of Anna in Disney’s Frozen on Broadway. Families from around the world joined Murin virtually to sing, dance, meet the contest winners and watch the billboard live from Times Square.
Schleich’s yearlong celebration of imagination kicked off at New York Toy Fair, where Wu unveiled a series of photographs bringing to life imaginative stories shared by kids. Then in June, more than 5,000 kids from around the world submitted their own photos depicting the rich, immersive details and fantastic stories of their imaginations.
Fans can still watch a livestream of the Times Square billboard and a recording of the virtual viewing party on Schleich’s Instagram and Facebook pages.
You’ve probably seen all the museums around the world you can visit right from your living room, but have you checked out all of the webcams in NYC that will help you take a virtual tour of the city? Via live streaming, you can check in on famous tourist spots like Times Square, familiar landmarks (Statue of Liberty) and take in literal bird’s eye views of the city. The main resource for live webcam views worldwide is Earthcam.com; and in some cases, you can use the site’s interface to move the camera, zoom in, or hear what’s happening by unmuting a mic. (Find those options in the lower left hand corner of the window.) Gather round and soak up what is currently an admittedly quieter NYC with the kids via these live NYC cams.
Times Square
Earthcam.com
You can take your pick of views of the Crossroads of the World: Broadway, Duffy Square, the Pedestrian Plaza, etc. Of course, this is Times Square as you've likely never seen it—without a lot of people. Still, when we dropped in virtually we spotted one of NYC's beloved characters: The Naked Cowboy himself, strolling with his guitar and cheering on fellow New Yorkers from a safe distance. Yee-haw! (And yes, come back here on New Year's Eve to catch all the action in the comfort of your own home!)
Check out a nice view of the Brooklyn Bridge as well as the Manhattan Bridge and the East River from an elevated downtown Manhattan perspective. There's also this one, from the viewpoint of Brooklyn, with Brooklyn Bridge Park in the foreground and the bridges to the right. (Here's one at the entrance to the bridge on the Brooklyn side.)
Fifth Avenue looks peaceful and patriotic these days—American flags flap in the wind, kind of reminding us of this 100-year-old painting, which you can go see at the New-York Historical Society one day. There's a nice view of St. Patrick's Cathedral as well.
Here's the NYC skyline from the Flatiron District, with a nice shot of the Empire State Building. It's hosted by rooftop bar 230 Fifth, and yes, they have some igloo domes up there.
Another great spot to see the NYC skyline is from Jersey! This webcam is perched atop the Hyatt Regency Jersey City on the Hudson. Especially impressive at night!
The Highline is closed, but you can see it from above. We expect it to get much greener in the near future! (We love this kids' book about an urban garden very much like The High Line!)
Another place that's usually pretty packed, here's the beach at Coney Island and the boardwalk. There's a nice view of the ocean as well. Consider it a moment of Zen.
Why limit game night to small boards and the confines of your home? Move beyond the kitchen table and head to a restaurant, a brewery or even the local library for the next family game night (make that, family date night!). Challenge the family to a new game or super-size a family favorite with an oversized board. Scroll on for the best places to team up for a day (or night) of family fun. Game on!
Labyrinth Games & Puzzles
Labyrinth Games & Puzzles offers the largest selection of board games and puzzles in the DMV. From beginners to experts, ages 1-100, there is sure to be a game here that everyone will love. Looking to add a new game to the weekly rotation? You can demo many of the games before you buy them. This store also hosts an Open Board Game Night from 6-10 p.m. every Thurs.
Twinpanzee Brewing Co.
Bring your crew to this Sterling establishment for some beer and board games. Twinpanzee offers games for all ages, including Candy Land, Operation, Chutes and Ladders, Trouble, Sorry!, Clue and more. There is also a Nintendo Entertainment System with over 30 games to challenge your loved ones with. Kids 16 & under are treated to free chips and juice. Want to break out of tabletop competitions? Try one of the brewery’s family-friendly kart racing events.
10 Executive Dr.
Sterling, VA
703-791-9363
Online: twinpanzee.com
photo: Board Room DC
The Board Room DC Do you dream of playing a board game without fighting over whose turn it is or who goes first?If so, The Board Room DC is calling. In addition to 21 draft lines, a rotating list of wines, and a full cocktail menu, this DC bar has an open cabinet with more than 30 board games.From Sorry to Scrabble, Battleship to Clue, they’ve got just about any game you want to play. Stop in, order a drink, and remember how much you love board games.
1737 Connecticut Ave. NW
Dupont Circle
202-518-7666
Online: boardroomdc.com
Game Day at Capitol View Library
You can count on good ol’ fashioned fun every Sat. at 2 p.m. at the Capitol View Library. Play a family game of Monopoly, Connect Four or chess at the library’s weekly Game Day event. Don’t forget to make an afternoon of it by browsing the stacks before you leave.
5001 Central Ave SE
Capitol View
202-645-0755
Online: dclibrary.org
photo: H Street Country Club
H Street Country Club Thing beyond just tabletop games. Less traditional country club and more bar/restaurant, the H Street Country Club offers a 9-hole DC-themed mini golf course, Skeeball, and Giant Jenga. Enjoy drinks while you golf, a meal between Skeeball games, or just hang out and take in the activity.
The Wharf
During warm weather months, head to The Wharf’s Transit Pier for oversized fun. Test your spelling skills with Scrabble, create team building with a game of Connect Four or try not to topple the life-sized Jenga. Games are free and available on a first come, first served basis.
Worth-The-Drive: The Crossroads
Dubbed a tabletop tavern., The Crossroads is a library of (almost) every game imaginable. There are over 1,400 games—all free to use by paying customers. The kids menu (aptly titled Hungry Hippos) features fan favorites like pizza, chicken tenders, mini cheeseburgers and more.
9412 Main St
Manassas, VA
571-364-8885
Online: ttoptav.com
—Meghan Yudes Meyers, Wendy Miller and Tricia Mirchandani
There’s nothing like having a fun family day out, except for when those special memory-making moments can also help those less fortunate at the same time. Now you can enjoy a Day Out With Thomas while you give back.
Based on the popular series and toys, Thomas & Friends, a Day Out With Thomas is a family event that gives kids of all ages the opportunity to climb aboard and take a ride with Thomas the Tank Engine. The event, which takes place all summer at locations across the country, has now partnered with United Way of Genesee County to roll out an initiative called the All Aboard for School Supplies Drive.
photo: Courtesy of Day Out With Thomas
Visitors to select Day Out With Thomas event are invited to donate school supplies that will be given to pre-K students affected by the water crisis in Flint, Michigan this August. Those who donate will earn a “Thomas & Friends Global Citizen Badge” for their support. Thomas the Tank himself will be present to donate the school supplies collected to the students in Flint.
The Day Out With Thomas events participating in the All Aboard for School Supplies Drive are:
Green Bay, WI: National Railroad Museum: June 12-16
Strasburg, PA: Strasburg Rail Road: June 22-30
Union, IL: Illinois Railway Museum: July 13-14 & 20-21
Felton, CA: Roaring Camp Railroads: July 26-28 & July 31-Aug 4
Flint, MI: Crossroads Village & Huckleberry RR: August 16-18 & 23-25
Even if you can’t attend an event, you can still make a donation by mailing a package to:
United Way of Genesee County
111 E Court Street #3A
Flint, MI 48502
ATT: Thomas & Friends: All Aboard for School Supplies Drive
Tickets to the Day Out With Thomas event are available here.
Getting your kids excited about a hair cut is almost as tough as getting them excited about a trip to the dentist. But thanks to the newly opened Snip-its Kids Salon at Crossroads Bellevue, stylists are not only trained in the latest kids’ hair trends, but also how to work with young, nervous clientele—making each visit to the salon a fun and memorable one. If your crew is in need of cut, trim or style, read on for the inside scoop on this kid-centric salon that is making kids feel special and pampered with every visit.
photo: Snip-its Kids Salon
The Important Details
Snip-its is conveniently located near the center of Bellevue Crossroads Shopping Center (near the food court and stage area) and offers a bright, exciting space for kids to get their hair cut, trimmed or styled. Focused on creating “magical experiences for kids and parents,” Snip-its employs specially trained stylists who love kids and it shows. Stylists are also certified by Autism Speaks to help make the whole hair-cutting experience a positive one for all.
About the Owner
Owner Duc Quan wants to make sure this often seen “task” of getting a hair cut is turned into something fun for kids along with an educational experience. That’s why he provides information to kids and parents about correct kids hygiene and age appropriate products. With a 4 1/2-year-old daughter himself, Quan knows a thing or two about kids. And his passion for good products for kids is seen on his shelves. The salon offers Snip-its brand shampoos, conditioners and styling products, plus a 100% vegan brand, Original Sprout and perennial mom-favorite, Moroccanoil.
Walk-ins Encouraged
Unlike many other kids’ hair salons, Snip-its is primarily walk-in only—great for when you don’t want to plan weeks in advance (who can?) or when your little monkey is suddenly drowning in hair. And while walk-in service can sometimes be tricky, Snip-its offers up to four stylists at any given time, activities in the waiting area and the food court and mall right next door, so wait times (generally no more than 5 minutes) go by in a blink. Psst! Bellevue Crossroads is full of ride-on mechanical toys to entertain tykes (think two-minute rides on an elephant or train for $.25), as well as kid faves like WiggleWorks kids, an awesome candy store and Creatively Yours, a ceramic studio that offers paint-it-yourself ceramics.
Perks That Come with Each Service
At the beginning of each appointment, haircut recipients receive a key-card-like pass to hold during their service. After their appointment (which can include a haircut, a shampoo & cut, added styling or just a simple bang trim), kids drop their passes into a special slot on a Magic Box to earn a cool prize. Computer tablets are also available during haircuts for pint-sized entertainment and fun accouterments are available as well (think sparkles, washable hair color or hair tinsel which is like a weave that stays in for a considerably long time). Higher-end hair accessories and toys are also available for sale.
Low-Sensory Appointments
If your little monkey needs a bit more of a relaxed or quiet environment or if he or she is feeling tentative about the hair-cutting process, Snip-its is more than accommodating. They offer specifically scheduled appointments at quiet times during the day and when the sounds and lights can be dimmed for your appointment.
More Than Hair
If your mini fashionista is into more than just amazing hair cuts, Snip-its also offers mini manis and pedis, ear-piercing, facials and even parties! Choose Glamour, Hollywood, Spa or Rock Star and let your little one get duded up with his or her pals in the nearby Community Room. After the glam treatment, partygoers get to walk the red carpet, catwalk or prance on stage in all their fabulousness.
Mark Your Calendars for the Grand Opening Party!
Everyone is invited to come and check out the salon at the official Grand Opening Party on Saturday, March 25 at 2 p.m. Eric Haines (a Cirque du Soleil entertainer!) will be on-hand to wow the crowds with a variety of amazing feats (think stilts, unicycle and other silly fun). Plus, face painting will be offered, along with music, a free spin of the prize wheel (you could win a 6-pack of hair cuts!) and more.
Good to Know
This is the first franchise location of Snip-its in the Pacific NW, but Quan has his sights set on opening four more locations in areas such as Bothell, Bellevue, Issaquah, Lynnwood and Greenwood. Keep an eye on their website for more Snip-its fun for everyone!
Snip-its of Bellevue
Crossroads Bellevue Shopping Center
15600 N.E. 8th St., Suite F-4
Bellevue, Wa 98008
425-429-2570
Online: snipits.com
Have you been to Snit-its? Planning to visit soon? Tell us about your experience in the Comments below.
— Jennifer B. Davis (all photos courtesy of the writer unless noted)
Oh Internet. Sometimes you are hot mess, and other times, you bring beauty to our lives. In this case, it’s gifted us with this gorgeousness: Isthishowyougoviral on YouTube has remixed Sesame Street with Bone Thugs-n-Harmony’s “Tha Crossroads.” You seriously can’t miss this.
First birthdays are a big milestone for a baby and his parents. But there’s more to think about than the Pinterest-inspired decorations and that cute little face covered in frosting. You’ll need a spot to host the big blowout. Click through the gallery for six fantastic spots to delight your pint-sized guest of honor and all of his or her guests.
WiggleWorks Kids
If you've got a bunch of toddlers joining your wee one's special day, take your party to WiggleWorks Kids to bounce, climb and of course, wiggle, wiggle, wiggle. While the tots play, adults can sit back and relax and older sibs can participate in crafts or small games. All party packages include all day play on WiggleWorks' soft playground for the birthday boy or girl and up to 15 guests 48 inches and under. Add on 90 minutes in their delightfully fun Orange Room, where it’s OK for kids to color on the walls, and this milestone birthday will surely be one to remember.
Bonus: Don't want to worry about the party details? A dedicated event coordinator will happily take care of all the party planning including pizza and decorations and will provide printable invitations and surprise goody bags for guests to take home (depending on your package choice -standard, custom or theme).
Good to Know: Customize your value or theme party with fun extras like giant character balloons, piñatas or a craft activity for the whole party. See pricing details on their website.
Looking for a unique way to entertain the kids while you unwind on a gorgeous day? What about a relaxing walk through one of D.C.’s fun and fascinating labyrinths? Unlike a frustrating maze where many pathways lead to a dead end, labyrinths promise a single, reliable path all the way to its center and back again. The ancient practice of labyrinth walking is said to boost contemplation, spirituality and peace (think: totally calm you down). Today, labyrinths can be found in schools, churches, public parks, hospitals and the rooftops of office buildings. Each of D.C.’s labyrinths offers a unique setting for kids to explore, an inviting atmosphere and the opportunity to circle your way to a more peaceful place. Yes, please!
For the high energy bunch: Del Ray Pocket Park Call it the best of both worlds; a medium size, circular labyrinth sits adjacent to a cute little playground in the heart of Del Ray (just a block from bustling Mt. Vernon Ave.). Kiddos can join you as you squiggle your way through the labyrinth (it only takes about 5 minutes) or they can slide, climb and jump the afternoon away at the miniture playground.
Tot-friendly: Labyrinth at American Psychological Association Hidden on top of an office building just a few blocks from the U.S. Capitol, this popular stone labyrinth offers a peaceful reprieve from the hustle and bustle of the city. The green roof with labyrinth is open to the public Monday through Friday from 7 am to 7 pm. Just ask the guard at the front desk for access.
Before bed chillaxing: Washington National Cathedral On the last Tuesday of each month (6:30 pm-9 pm) you can walk this canvas labyrinth to the sound of a live harp and Native American flute music as part of the Cathedral Crossroads program, which focuses on a variety contemplative practices.
Photo-ready: Georgetown Waterfront A lovely addition to Georgetown’s Waterfront Park, this green and white concrete Labyrinth was designed and built by the TKF Foundation, which seeks to create sacred spaces in bustling cities. Next to the labyrinth you’ll find a wooden bench with a circular back. Beneath the bench is a yellow thought journal where everyone is invited to add a few words (or a drawing for the under-4 set).
Our friends at Seattle Mom’s Deal Finder are bringing Red Tricycle readers the best in super savvy online and local deals! We’ll be highlighting one fabulous deal each week but be sure to check out their blog for the full list of awesome daily deals.
Get $5 off any product at Creatively Yours at the Crossroads Mall in Bellevue! This issuch a great place to bring your kids to create something meaningful and special. These ceramic keepsakes are absolutely precious and are sure to please whoever is lucky enough to receive them! You can create anything from a coffee mug to a platter to a holiday ornament. They’ve got dozens of different styles to choose from. The staff at Creatively Yours are experts at helping your little one get started. You’ll love the adorable “handprint art” and your child will love taking part in this special process. It only takes a few days until your finished product is ready for pick up. We’ve both taken our kids to Creatively Yours to make special keepsakes for family members and we highly recommend it, especially with this amazing discount! To save the $5, just mention our site, Seattle Moms Deal Finder! Valid through January!
Time flies. All of a sudden, the baby’s feet don’t fit in her jammies, your three-year-old needs a haircut, even “your girls” could really use a new nursing bra. You could run all over town looking for everything you need, or, you could just head over to CF Kids in Crossroads Mall; a one-stop shop for clothing, gear, toys, and yes…even hair-cuts.
New mamas will love the selection of nursing supplies (including Bravado bras), slings, feeding supplies, diaper bags, little potties, and even car seats. Clothing typically runs from infant to 6x, although we saw a few items in 7/8 including cute rain gear from Pluie Pluie. We also found a great selection of Zutano, Petit Bateau, e and fabulous Luxe baby robes by Lil Rags. CF Kids also has plenty of Robeez, Trumpettes, Crocs.
The toy section encompasses all ages with a huge supply of Corolle dolls, RokenBok systems, eco-friendly Plan Toys, and for older kids, games, workbooks, science and art kits.
The CF Kids Hair Salon is attached to the store. Junior can pick out his seat (like a race-car or fire truck), a toy to play with, and even the flavor of shampoo.
PS: Because you are all grown-up, don’t miss their home interiors store just outside the mall called Common Folk Co.
CF Kids and Hair Salon
Crossroads Mall ,15600 NE 8th St Bellevue www.cfkidsonline.com
425-643-KIDS (5437)
