ML Interest Tag: renaissance

New York City-Inspired Baby Names We Love

by Mimi O'Connor

The options seem limitless, with history-makers, magnates, and iconic figures from every era and discipline, all hailing from, or making their mark on the Big Apple. We rounded up some of the usual suspects and lots of classic baby names, and also looked for some fresh kids’ names that pay tribute to NYC.  No baby on deck? Maybe one of these New York names will hit the spot for that dog you are adopting from the Humane Society.

Anthony 
There are many famous Anthonys from NYC, but for now we’re going with Fauci, a hometown guy from Dyker Heights, Brooklyn.

Apollo
Sure, it’s a lot to live up to, what with the god of the sun thing and all—but aim high and pay tribute to this legendary Harlem theater at the same time.

Apple
With apologies to Gwyneth and Chris, we were the first Apple. Go big!

Astoria/Astor
One of several neighborhood-inspired names on this list, Astoria is named for John Jacob Astor, a wealthy early 19th-century investor in NYC real estate, but we think it sounds almost Disney-princess-like. Astor is also kind of royal.

Audrey
Yes, Hepburn is strongly associated with NYC thanks to her iconic role of Holly Golightly in Breakfast at Tiffany’s, but we’re thinking of Audrey Munson, model for scores of major statues around New York City, including the figure atop the Manhattan Municipal Building—second tallest in the city, after Lady Liberty.

Bill Cunningham
Have twins? Name one Bill, one Cunningham, and know that you are paying tribute to one of the most amazing New Yorkers ever to traverse, and document the city.

Baldwin
Inspired by this Black poet from Harlem, this is an alternative to his first name James.

Brighton
A name pegged to a famous Brooklyn beach and neighborhood with Russian and Eastern European roots.

Brooklyn
This New York name might have seemed unusual at some point is now in danger of being too common. Still, it’s a great borough and the name shows true Kings County pride!

Cab
In addition to the omnipresent vehicle, Cab Calloway was a major figure in the Harlem Renaissance. (We also like “Taxi” for a cute girl’s nickname, but it’s not as subtle.)

Carnegie
As in the Hall, named for steel magnate, businessman and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie.

Coney
Employ it as a nickname (for Cornelius?) or use it as a standalone, this one has lots of south Brooklyn spirit.

Dorothy
Ms. Parker, one of New York’s sharpest wits, would approve. (Parker works, too.)

Duke
While not an NYC native, Duke Ellington made the city his home and became a major cultural force during the Harlem Renaissance as bandleader of the Cotton Club. We like Ellington as well.

Ed
A name that seems ripe for a comeback, this one pays homage to one of the most iconic, recognizable, “New Yorkiest” mayors the city has ever had, Ed Koch.

Edith
Downtown doyenne (and first woman to win the Pulitzer Prize, thank you very much) Edith Wharton inspires this name from another era.

Eloise
Sure, she’s a fictional character, but she’s one of the most famous little New Yorkers out there! We love this New York name for a girl with a little spunk!

Emily
When her husband Washington, chief engineer of the Brooklyn Bridge succumbed to an illness, Emily Warren Roebling saw the project to its completion. (She was also one of the first people to cross it when it was done!)

Emory
While you may not be familiar with his name, architect Emory Roth designed so many of the iconic New York City buildings and hotels of the 1920s and 30s that you know and likely love. (Obviously, Roth could be a good choice as well.)

Fran/Frances/Francis
Fran Liebowitz has got to be one of the New Yorkiest New Yorkers out there.

Frederick (Law Olmsted)
Take your pick (and level of pretentiousness) with any part of the famed landscape architect’s name. (He’s one of the masterminds behind the designs for Central Park and Prospect Pack. For extra geek points and eyerolls, go for twins or siblings name Olmsted and Vaux, the name of his partnership with Calvert Vaux.)

George Gershwin
Either one! The groundbreaking composer was born in East New York, Brooklyn and became a major force on the legendary Tin Pan Alley, Broadway, and beyond.

Gracie
A nod to the official New York City mayoral residence, Gracie Mansion, named for early 19th-century businessman (and original owner of the house) Archibald Gracie.

Gray (Lady)
It’s the historic nickname of the paper that publishes “All the news that’s fit to print”—either could be the name of your New York City kid.

Greenwich
Inspired by the artsy downtown village, this name offers a nice mix of funky flair and subtle sophistication. (Like the neighborhood itself!)

Hamilton
You’ve heard of this guy. Founding father, first Treasurer of the United States of America, the man behind The U.S. Coast Guard, The New York Post, the Federalist party. And the blockbuster musical. He’s everywhere: Fort Hamilton Parkway, Fort Hamilton, etc.

Herald
A cheeky alternative to the more common spelling, “Harold”, this one references Herald Square, named for the long-gone newspaper, the New York Herald.

Herman
The author of Moby Dick (and other masterpieces) was born in New York, died in New York, and he’s buried in Woodlawn Cemetery in the Bronx. (For the record, we like Melville as a kid’s name, too.)

Hoyt
There’s Hoyt Street in Brooklyn, Hoyt Avenue in Queens. They take their name from Edwin Hoyt, a 19th-century NYC businessman.

Hudson
Already a popular moniker around these parts, this name pays tribute to a founder, the river named for the founder, etc. Plus, it’s got some gravitas.

Jackie
She wasn’t born here, but she made New York City her home. So much so that they named a reservoir after her.

Jane
Shame on us if we didn’t suggest one of the champions of preserving so many parts of the city we love, Jane Jacobs. Jane is a classic New York baby name and we love it as a first or middle name.

Jennifer
Big in the 70s, then abandoned for Brittany and Ashley, Jennifer—here inspired by Jenny (Lopez) from the Bronx blocks herself—is primed for a resurgence

Lenny/Leonard
One’s a ground-breaking legendary downtown comedian  (Bruce, which you could also borrow), the other is the longtime music director of the New York Philharmonic, a legendary composer, and more (Bernstein).

Lexington
Sounds fancy, can be shortened to “Lexy” or “Lex”. The famous NYC avenue gets its name from the Revolutionary War Battle of Lexington, which actually took place in Massachusetts, but it was a big one.

Liberty
An inspiring concept, a New York icon. It’s hard to go wrong with this one.

Lincoln
A name with some very strong historical associations, this is also the namesake of one of our city’s most revered and iconic cultural institutions. (Which, interestingly enough, did not definitely get its name from honest Abe.)

Lou/Louis
Two musical legends, of different genres. Go downtown cool and pay tribute to Lou Reed, or name-check jazz man Armstrong a New Orleans native who famously settled in Corona, Queens for decades. (You can still visit his house!)

Macy
It’s “The World’s Largest Store!” And what kid wouldn’t get a kick out of “Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade”, etc.?

Moses
It’s a heavy name, no matter how you slice it. Tap your inner urban planner (you have one, right?) and pay tribute to Robert Moses, who, love him or hate him, shaped the city we live in today.

Patti
Pay tribute to one of the coolest kids around, Patti Smith, with this one. Got twins? How about Patti and Smith? Patti and Robert? Patti and Maple?

Peggy
Art collector, patron, and socialite Peggy Guggenheim left her mark on the city and the world with her wealth and taste. While Guggenheim is quite the mouthful, Peggy is a New York name we can get on board with.

Rocky/Rockefeller
A builder and benefactor of the city, a center of midtown. However you slice this name—inspired by philanthropist John D. Rockefeller Jr., it’s got presence and gravitas.

Roe
A shortened version of Roebling, the surname of the chief engineer of the Brooklyn Bridge and his wife Emily, who played a key role in the completion of the span after her husband fell ill.

Roxy
Similar, but different. S.L. “Roxy” Rosenthal actually worked with Rockefeller—he’s the showman behind Radio City Music Hall, the grand theater a stone’s throw from John D’s “City Within a City.”

Ruth
Used to sound old-fashioned, but now it’s fierce as hell thanks to this Flatbush, Brooklyn native. #RGB.

Shirley
Just old-fashioned enough to be in style again, this name pays tribute to Shirley Chisholm, the first African American woman elected to Congress and the first woman and African American to seek the nomination for president of the United States of one of the two major political parties.

Smith
A well-known street in the Boerum Hill area of Brooklyn, the thoroughfare gets its name from one of the borough’s original mayors (back when it was its own city), Samuel Smith.

Teddy/Theo
Born here (Gramercy Park), Police Commissioner, Rough Rider, and President of the United States. Take your pick with Theodore Roosevelt: Theo, Teddy, Roosevelt, Theodore

Tiffany
Not the singer, the iconic jewelry store. (Maybe mix it up and name your child Tiffany Audrey.)

Walt, Whitman
Hero of Brooklyn and free, wild spirits everywhere, this poet offers plenty of inspiration and variation: Walt, Whit, Whitman. They all sound good to us.

Wharton
Another nod to novelist Edith, but for boys. (Possible downside: Nickname “Wart.”)

Make sure to capture all your little New Yorker’s biggest moments—and share them with your family and friends near and far—with the Tinybeans app. The secure platform puts parents in total control of who sees and interacts with photos and videos of their kids.

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

12 Crazy-Cool Reasons to Go to the Bristol Renaissance Faire

by Amy Bizzarri

Grab a sword and shout, “huzzah!” because Bristol Renaissance Faire is back. The full-on homage to Elizabethan England—complete with costumed characters, period music, jousting tournaments, acrobatic and comedy acts, rides, games and food—is an outdoor village set back from the highway near the Illinois/Wisconsin border. It’s open every weekend beginning July 9 through September 5. To make the most of your visit, these are your must-dos.

You can watch jousting

Knights spar (and tell jokes) on horseback in the dirt arena at the Faire's north end. The jousting tournaments only happen a few times a day and fill up fast. Like, get-there-a-half-hour-early fast. So, check the schedule when you arrive and plan accordingly. If you don't care about grabbing a coveted bleacher seat, you can probably score a spot on the grass a few minutes before the show.

It's totally okay to play dress-up

Go ahead — let loose. People not only dress the part of Elizabethan-era royalty, pirates and peasants, but they speak it, too. It's hard to decipher who among you wearing a velvet cloak and talking with an English accent actually works there. And it really doesn't matter, because the whole experience is like walking through a play. If you don't come in costume, you can buy one there. There are shops selling everything from bodices to leather boots to clay devil's horns.

Giant turkey legs. Enough said.

They're almost as big as a child's head and no silverware is required (or given). If this isn't photo opp gold, we don't know what is. Oh, and they don't taste half bad, either. Actually, they're excellent.

Infants and toddlers are welcome. . . and they'll feel right at peaceful home in Nobles Glade.

The most serene area of the Faire is this grassy sweep at the far north end. Spread out a blanket and enjoy a bit of tranquility. The Glade borders a picturesque pond and is where the Queen and her court are known to hang when not holding sway over the jousting tournaments.

Your kid's one and only chance to be officially named a Lord or a Lady. 
Queen Elizabeth herself shows up in Kids' Kingdom for the celebrated Knighting Ceremony, at which she personally dubs all attending children lords and ladies.

Photo opps galore.

Have your kids sit upon one of the thrones at the entrance of the Kids' Kingdom for the ultimate photo-opp experience.  Choose from the Pirate Throne will all its shiny plunder, the Fairy Throne, the nasty-wasty Dragon Throne, the Jester Throne for your little joker or the Queen Elizabeth throne for your princess in waiting.

You can meet real fairies.

The Faire is set up like a real village — town pubs, merchants and all. In the midst of it, due east of the Ship Swings ride, is the unmarked Fairie Glen. This is where sprites in beautiful costumes and makeup flit through the grass. They don't talk, but engage with kids in truly mesmerizing ways through expression and movement. Get your camera out.

Pirates hang out at Blackfriars Tavern — and they're super-friendly.

This pit stop in the middle of the grounds is manned by a chatty pirate who knows how to work a crowd (i.e.: G-rated jokes when kids are around and bawdy humor when they're not). The stand sells soda, lemonade, water and beer by the bottle or on draft. If you leave any of the workers a tip, they ring a bell and make a scene.

There is a mud show. It gets wild.

The Sturdy Beggars Mud Show has been a highlight of this fair for many years. If you're looking for raucous (albeit kid-friendly) fun, it's a must-see. Three men do joke-y antics before a crowd and along the way, mud gets slung. You can imagine how it ends, with the actors practically dive-bombing into a mud pit. For more funny stuff, check out MooNie the Magnifi'Cent on the Globe Stage. He's a juggling, clowning fool, and you really must grab a seat near the front to catch all the fun.

Parking is free.

Most cars make a beeline for the main lot, where parking close to the entrance is $5. But if you don't mind walking, there is a free parking lot just north of the main lot. Shhh... your secret.

Your kids get to throw tomatoes at someone's face — without getting in trouble

At the far end of the Faire, next to the jousting arena, pull your pitching arm back and fire away. Your job (for a small fee) is to throw tomatoes at a guy peering out from a wooden shed. He'll give you plenty of reasons to take aim, starting with tossing insults your way. Don't worry, parents, they take it easy on kids with fun, innocent humor. No wonder they call this attraction Vegetable Justice!

Kids' Kingdom. Nuff said.

Okay, nuff said, but we'll give you the scoop. This is an area of the fair designed just for kids. They will explore pirate ships, adventure among the hobbit houses, meet fairy tale characters, hear stories, have pretend picnics, see stage shows galore and play games. Kids will go wild over The Painted Lady, who lets kids add paint to her canvas dress while she weaves stories. What's not to love about all that?

Bristol Renaissance Faire
Located off I-94 at the Illinois/Wisconsin border
Open Sat., Sun. & Labor Day, Jul. 9-Sept. 5
Hours: 10 a.m.-7 p.m. daily
Admission: $30/adults; $15/ages 5-12; free for ages 4 & under
Online: renfaire.com

— Amy Bizzarri & Kelly Aiglon

RELATED STORIES:
The Ultimate Summer Bucket List for Chicago Parents
The Current 411 on Your Favorite Summer Street Fests

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

Atlanta’s Most Insta-Worthy Murals & Street Art

by Tinybeans Team

You don’t need a docent to guide you through the Atlanta street art scene, which now boasts over 1000 murals (though you could learn a lot on one of these walking tours). Just hop on a bike, a skateboard, or lace up your sneaks to check out artwork that is as inspiring as it is Insta-worthy. And, to celebrate Atlanta’s growing muralist community, the ATL1000 awareness campaign has big things planned, including a mural painting workshop for kids! Keep reading for our favorite murals around town, below.

This Lela Brunet masterpiece stretches out across several walls of a Buckhead parking deck. If you're looking for a vibrant background with "Atlanta" clearly repeated throughout, this is your spot. One thing to note, however, is that each wall is only about 3-feet high. If you're hoping for a massive backdrop, look elsewhere, but this would be a great backdrop for a younger child or crawler to pose in front of. 

Find It: 3259 Roswell Rd. NE

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Leslie L McCleskey (@leslie_mccleskey) on

Tiny Doors ATL is an Atlanta-based art project that installs 7-inch door sculptures by artist Karen Anderson Singer in neighborhoods or at institutions. Door #658 (it's 658 times the size of a traditional tiny door) is located on the Eastside Beltline Trail, and is so big that it will make YOU feel tiny!

Find it: At the Edge OTB (behind the giant bull), 670 DeKalb Ave. SE

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Nikia Phoenix (@nikiaphoenix) on

Known around town as the #heybrowngirlmural, it's painted on the side of Peters Street Station and is a product of the work done by @nikiaphoenix and @blackgirlbeautifuldotcom, with art by @thepainterbae. It was created to remind us all that brown women all over the world are beautiful, and that representation is important.

Find It: At the corner of Trenholm St. SW and Peters St. SW 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by The Best Of Atlanta (@tbo.atlanta) on

Photo by @sovereignrm

This 70-foot mural of the late Rep. John Lewis is located on the east side of the current Renaissance Walk building. Lewis was a politician and civil rights leader who served as the U.S. Representative for Georgia's 5th congressional district. Located in an area of downtown with much historical significance, you'll be walking in Lewis' footsteps if you go to pay this mural a visit. The Butler Street YMCA building, where civil rights leaders met in the 1960s, is directly south of this mural, and dozens of historical churches and businesses surround it in the Sweet Auburn Historic District. 

FInd It: 219 Auburn Ave. NE

 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Gabriel John Paul (@gabrieljohnpaul) on

Moms, grab your coffee and head on over to this mural in Castleberry Hill—an historic neighborhood known for its industrial-to-arts vibe—to snap a picture of yourself in your natural environment: wings up. While you're at it, put the Castleberry Hill Art Stroll (every 2nd Friday) on your agenda. You'll visit fascinating and diverse galleries and get a taste of this little corner of Atlanta!

Find It: 217 Walker St. SW

Painted on the side of Atlanta's famous "Disco Kroger" (it used to be a swinging night club called Limelight Disco, where Andy Warhol purportedly hung out in the 80's), this depiction of the building's former glory days by Yoyo Ferro is actually quite glorious, itself. 

Find It: 3330 Piedmont Rd. NE

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Castleberry Hill (@castleberryhill) on

Another Castleberry Hill mural, this one pretty much sums it up. And in the family, there couldn't be a better spot than this one to snap a photo of your kiddos getting along. 

Find It: In the vicinity of 261-263 Peters St. 

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Mike Zam (@mienlaza) on

This is one of two murals in Decatur painted by  @thekillamari for @livingwallsatl as part of the Laura Patricia Calle Grant, which accepts proposals for a public art project that informs and promotes awareness on social equality, feminism, immigrtants' rights, LGBTQ rights, and cultural diversity.  The colors chosen for this mural are inspired by the Pan-Sexual pride flag. 

Find It: Commerce & E. College Ave.

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Lela Brunet (@lelabrunetart) on

​Lela Brunet is an Atlanta artisit known for depicting contrast between a female form and colorful patterns. This particular mural joins those in @outerspaceproject—a week-long event of art, murals, live music, action sports in the ATL—along the #path400 trail in Buckhead. 

Find It: Old Ivy to Wieuca Rd. spur of Path 400

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by @snoozefactory on

We love the merry marigolds of this mural that's painted on the side of a shipping container. Find it near the chicken coop area of the Berea Mennonite farm on Bouldercrest in East Atlanta. The small urban church has multiple acres under cultivation and grows over 70 different organic vegetables on the east edge of Atlanta, and sells its food at local farmers’ markets. It also provides a first fruits tithe to the community, distributed through a free clinic. 

Find It: 1088 Bouldercrest Dr. SE

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by The Beacon Atlanta (@thebeaconatl) on

In Grant Park, you'll find this cheerful mural called "Vaso de Flores" by artist Yoyo Ferro @yoyoferro. Big, bright, and bold (also very near The Beacon, in case you're shopping or dining nearby), we could all use a vase of flowers this year. 

Find It: In the vicinity of 1039 Grant St. SE

Located in Buckhead, this mural by Thomas Turner is called "Moon Seeker." It's dedicated to Henry Aaron, legendary MLB right fielder and current SVP of the Atlanta Braves. He was also known as the man boxing legend Muhammad Ali called “The only man I idolize more than myself."

Find It: Just north of 3279 Roswell Rd. NE

 

RELATED STORIES
18 Places to Find Incredible Outdoor Art
18 Trips in the USA That Will Make Your Kids Smarter
Getaway: The Unplugged Family Vacation (for When You Need to Recharge)
Visit These Famous Museums from Your Couch

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

What Are Kids Reading? This Report Has the Answers

by Erica Loop

What are kids reading? Now you don’t have to wonder what types of titles are the most popular with different age groups around the country.

Renaissance recently released the 2021 What Kids Are Reading Report—and it has plenty of awesome info for educators and parents to access. The free downloadable report is a comprehensive, national report of student reading habits.

Photo: Julia Cameron via Pexels

If you’re not sure how to help your child become a reader, what books can fuel their literary appetite, or are just on the hunt for more information on children’s books, this report is a must-download. Some of the study’s highlights include tools such as popular book maps for each grade band and state and popular book lists for each grade level.

The popular book lists tool is broken down into categories, such as popular topics, top print books, top digital books, popular Spanish titles, “New and Now” books and more.

Along with the tools and lists, the report also includes snapshots and spotlights from the past year. Look for topics such as “How Are Kids Reading During COVID-19?” and “How Are Teachers Keeping Kids Reading During COVID-19?”.

To download your free copy of the report, visit Renaissance’s website here.

—Erica Loop

 

RELATED STORIES

Mo Willems Is Opening His Studio for an Anniversary Celebration of “Lunch Doodles”

Take a Trip Through the Body with “Wow in the World’s” New Book

Astronaut Mae Jemison Releases 2nd Edition of Her YA Book

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

30 of the Funniest Santa Photo Fails of the Season

by Karly Wood

Getting a holiday picture with Santa is a Christmas tradition, and while many families walk away with a picture-perfect shot, there are just as many who end up with a major Santa fail. Until they get older, tons of littles find the big man in red terrifying––and these photos prove it. From crying babies to getting Mrs. Claus in on the action, keep scrolling to see some hilarious Santa photo fails that’ll keep you laughing the entire holiday season.

1. The fingers tell it all.

2. If I contort myself, I just might get away.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5Jtgl7AzW8/

3. Double NOPE.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BsJMAywAiEh/

4. The weather outside is frightful…

https://www.instagram.com/p/Brx7LgOgGhy/

5. Hittin’ the ground running.

6. Not impressed with the cookies, Santa.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B5k0aqbhVUy/

 

 

7. If you can’t beat ’em, join ’em.

 

8. “Other duties as assigned.”

 

9. This Santa looks like he’s fresh off the set of Stranger Things. 

 

10. Little Suzie desperately tries to dab her way out of danger.

https://twitter.com/JenLeander/status/412364682825977856

 

11. Everyone’s had it.

 

12. ‘Twas a holiday standoff, and all through the house…

 

13. It could almost be a Renaissance painting, if it wasn’t so funny.

 

14. “Get. Me. OUTTA HERE!”

 

15. 👀

 

16. It almost looks like they’re singing.

 

17. Dubious.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BqMrRyzBvWV/

 

18. Older sis, living her best life.

 

19. “Come ON. If we don’t sit on his lap, we don’t get a TOY!”

 

20. An official tradition!

 

21. Little Timmy never liked the color purple.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BdGAJWRlxHl/

 

22. Santa with that QB grip looking for his wide receiver.

 

23. Activate: meltdown mode.

 

 

24. There is no middle ground in the game of thrones.

 

25. “I think we’re done here.”

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bc8r79rneUj/

 

26. The eyes say it all…

Source: Laura Green for Red Tricycle

27. Who dis?!

https://www.instagram.com/p/BqxTfTUgG8z/

28. Horrifying. We’d be scared too, little one!

29. Double your pleasure, double your fun.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BqlOGJeh5wk/

30. Glo-oooo-ooooo-ria!

 

Happy holidays—and good luck out there, parents.

––Karly Wood

Feature photo: Beach House Photography via Instagram.

 

RELATED STORIES

Trader Joe’s Chocolate Snowmen Are Back for the Holidays

Bring the Holidays Home with Baskin-Robbins

Pillsbury Released a Cinnamon Bun Cake Mix Just in Time for the Holidays

 

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

Why I Think We Should Go Back to Simpler Times

By Missy Woodruff

It might surprise most people to know that through most of human history we were hunter-gatherers. For tens of thousands of years we travelled in small bands of “Sapiens,” foraging for our food.

In fact, it wasn’t until the “Agricultural Revolution” about 12,000 years ago that we decided to settle down and became farmers instead of travelers.

History calls this decision “progress,” but I think it was a questionable call. Here’s why we were better off as hunter-gatherers:

We were healthier

Imagine a giant open-air health club with a kick-ass cafe and no parking issues. You may be surprised to learn that such a place exists, and it’s called, “nature.”

It’s true, and for thousands of years we used to travel through “nature” unencumbered; like a bunch of hipster chefs out foraging food for their trendy gastro-pubs.

As hunter-gatherers, we were usually on the move, and didn’t stay in one place for more than a few days or weeks. Our travel was dictated largely by the annual migration of animals and the seasonal growth cycles of plants.

We ate whatever we could forage, and that wide variety of foods resulted in a very nutritious diet. Typical hunter-gatherer meals might have included a diversity of fruits, vegetables, edible roots, nuts, meat and fish. (Yes, it was the “original” paleo diet!)

All that nutritious, low-carb food combined with hours of “foraging” exercise each day meant that our ancestors were in tremendous shape, and the obesity rate was probably zero.

Not only did they probably look like (hairy?) CrossFit athletes, but they were really smart too!

We were smarter

You might scoff at the idea that people were smarter 20k years before Siri and Alexa, but hear me out.

All that foraging made us a lot smarter. Can you imagine the breadth of knowledge it would have required to be a successful hunter-gatherer? Just to survive you’d need an extensive, hands-on education in biology, botany, geography, and meteorology.

Hunter-gatherers were true, “Renaissance men” (and women!), with each person learning dozens of practical skills like making tools and weapons, navigating, mending clothes, starting fires, and tracking animals.

In today’s society, most of us specialize in one niche area and depend on the narrow skills of many others to survive. I mean, how much do you really need to know about the earth to sell insurance or design websites?

Sure, as a society we’ve never been collectively “smarter” and more “advanced” than we are today, but as individuals I say we were in our prime as hunter-gatherers.

We were happier

When we put down roots and became farmers, an interesting thing happened. We stopped living in the present, and started worrying about the future.

Thoughts of foraging for our next meal turned to anxiety about harvests months or even years in the future. We worked harder and acquired more possessions, but we fretted that we might lose them if a single crop failed.

When we stopped traveling, we put ourselves on a road to nowhere. Like Sisyphus, we began perpetually rolling a boulder uphill, only to watch it roll back down again.

To this day it seems like the more we chase “progress,” the more despondent we become. If things have improved so much, why are we so damned depressed?

OK, I’m “cherry-picking” some facts (that’s a little “foraging” pun for you!)

Could I really live in a world that had sabre-tooth tigers, but no flushable-toilets?

Maybe not, but I can’t help think we have a lot to learn from our foraging ancestors. Lately even peanuts and gluten seem to be telling us that we’re doing something wrong, so maybe we should listen.

When we were hunter-gatherers we didn’t have to contemplate our right to “the pursuit of happiness,” because it seems we had already found happiness in the pursuit!

I'm Missy, a mother of three and a middle school drama teacher at a private school. I'm obsessed with my Vizsla (dog), traveling, and the musical Hamilton. I also enjoy writing and sharing fun parenting stories, which is what brought me here.

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

NOVA and PBS Digital Studios Premiere YouTube Series “Parentalogic”

by Jennifer Swartvagher

What’s it like to be a parent? PBS science series NOVA just  premiered a new digital series, Parentalogic, focused on the science behind parenting. The series launched in partnership with PBS Digital Studios and has its own YouTube channel.

Parentalogic is here to help you navigate the ups and downs of parenting from tantrums to fevers to sleepless nights. Co-hosted by Dr. Alok Patel, pediatrician and on-camera medical news expert, and Bethany Van Delft, comedian and mother of two, the episodes address common parenting conundrums with humor and honesty. Packed with useful health and science research, the series is a great resource for science fans and expecting and current parents everywhere.

“Having kids can bring so much joy, but it can also—at moments—cause panic,” says Julia Cort, NOVA Co-Executive Producer. “Together with PBS Digital Studios, we’re delighted to provide parents with some much-needed relief and support. Parentalogic is the perfect opportunity to do what we do best— bring evidence-based clarity to otherwise mystifying challenges.”

The first episode breaks down the science behind tantrums. Dr. Alok Patel discusses the ways children develop control over their emotions, and our best understanding of the brain processes that culminate in what we see as meltdowns. Bethany Van Delft approaches the topic from the perspective of a parent who has experienced firsthand the mayhem of a tantrum. We gain insight into what is going on in a child’s mind when tantrums occur, and get expert advice on how best to handle them.

“We’re very excited to partner with NOVA on this digital series. Parents are juggling more than ever right now, including an infinite amount of information and misinformation available online,” says Brandon Arolfo, Head of PBS Digital Studios. “With Dr. Patel and Bethany Van Delft as trustworthy guides, Parentalogic is timely programming that explores the art and science of modern-day parenting through a very informative, relatable, and entertaining lens

Other episodes in the series will be posted bi-weekly to the Parentalogic YouTube channel. They will aim to tackle the complex and often taboo questions parents are confronted with. How do you decide between breastfeeding, formula, or a combination of both? Where do allergies come from, and does exposure to allergens make a child more or less likely to develop allergies later? Why do fevers happen? How do you know if a child’s bathroom habits are okay?

“Parentalogic is proof we can deliver high-quality information about a serious topic in an engaging and lighthearted fashion. I’m thrilled to be working with Bethany, an all-star, Renaissance mom who can dance circles around me when it comes to raising children. This juxtaposition comes across on camera and it’s hilarious,” said Dr. Alok Patel, Parentalogic Co-Host. “This show is a blend of intricate medical physiology, practical knowledge, and humor. It doesn’t feel like a lecture, it feels more like a conversation you could have with someone at a bar—assuming you were talking about poop, sleep training, and vaccines, of course.” 

“Growing up, I was a big fan of NOVA, especially how easily they explained complex science and how they were consistently trustworthy,” said Bethany Van Delft, Parentalogic Co-Host. “I hope Parentalogic helps lessen the chaos and uncertainty of the Internet from parenting by providing science, and clear, evidence-based answers. I also hope it offers parents confidence, a little relief, and some laughs, and sets an example for a respectful relationship between a doctor and a parent.”

—Jennifer Swartvagher

Featured photo: NOVA

RELATED STORIES

This Study Shows the Stress Working Parents Face Could Actually Cost Them Their Jobs

New Study Reveals How Praise Affects Students’ Behavior

New Study Finds the Brains of Babies & Adults Sync Up During Play-Time

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

Andrea Bocelli Will Live-Stream From Milan’s Empty Duomo Cathedral on Easter

by Jennifer Swartvagher

This Easter Sunday, churchgoers will not be permitted to enter a place of worship. An exception will be made for Andrea Bocelli. He will live-stream a concert on YouTube that evening from the historic Duomo Cathedral in Milan, Italy.

Andrea Bocelli

Bocelli said, “On the day in which we celebrate the trust in a life that triumphs, I’m honored and happy to answer ‘Sì’ to the invitation of the City and the Duomo of Milan. I believe in the strength of praying together; I believe in the Christian Easter, a universal symbol of rebirth that everyone – whether they are believers or not – truly needs right now. Thanks to music, streamed live, bringing together millions of clasped hands everywhere in the world, we will hug this wounded Earth’s pulsing heart, this wonderful international forge that is reason for Italian pride. The generous, courageous, proactive Milan and the whole of Italy will be again, and very soon, a winning model, engine of a renaissance that we all hope for. It will be a joy to witness it, in the Duomo, during the Easter celebration which evokes the mystery of birth and rebirth”

The Andrea Bocelli Foundation (ABF) has started a fundraiser to help hospitals purchase all the instrumentation and equipment necessary to protect their medical staff. It is possible to donate through the GoFundMe campaign.

—Jennifer Swartvagher

Featured photo: Andrea Bocelli via YouTube

RELATED STORIES

Celebrities Give Back to Support Those Affected by the Coronavirus

Check Out These Learning Resources Amid Coronavirus School Closures

Disney to Donate Excess Food After Coronavirus Closures

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

Miami’s Best Museums for Kids & Families

by Kate Loweth

When the heat is on and you need to get out of the house, head to one of these museums in Miami, Florida that are perfect for kids. They can explore the solar system, learn about Miami’s colorful history and see works of arts in many different forms. Scroll through to find your next museum adventure!

Frost Science

Frost Science

The Phillip and Patricia Frost Museum of Science is a leading science museum dedicated to sharing the power of science, sparking wonder and investigation and fueling innovation for the future. Located in Downtown Miami’s waterfront Museum Park, Frost Science is divided into four buildings: the Frost Planetarium, Aquarium, and North and West Wings. Here, guests can learn about the core science behind living systems, the solar system and known universe, the physics of flight, light and lasers, the biology of the human body and mind and much more.

1101 Biscayne Blvd.
Miami, FL
Online: frostscience.org

Miami Children’s Museum

Kids 10 and under will love Miami Children’s hands-on exhibitions including a play cruise ship, supermarket, and a kids-sized television studio. “Fishing” off the boat is a local favorite.

980 MacArthur Cswy
Miami, FL 
Online: miamichildrensmuseum.org

Vizcaya Museum and Gardens

Teresa O. via yelp

Featuring beautiful gardens and fairytale architecture, this 10-acre waterfront villa is built in Italian Renaissance style. The kids will be fascinated by the magic of this place, which feels like a castle.

3251 S Miami Ave
Miami, FL 
Online: vizcaya.org

Pérez Art Museum Miami

Ciri D. via yelp

Pérez Art Museum Miami is a modern and contemporary art museum dedicated to collecting and exhibiting international art of the 20th and 21st centuries. They offer many programs for families including an art camp, art day for kids and after school programs.

1103 Biscayne Blvd.
Miami, FL
Online: pamm.org

HistoryMiami Museum

Learn about Miami's history at this museum that's fun for all ages. On the second Saturday of the month they offer free admission and special family programming. 

101 West Flagler Street
Miami, FL
Online: historymiami.org

Institute of Contemporary Art Miami

This museum in Miami's Design District offers free admission and lots of art that the kids will love exploring. Large scale sculptures, a 15,000-square-foot garden and interesting works of art by local artists are particularly interesting for kids.

61 NE 41st St
Miami, FL
Online: icamiami.org

—Kate Loweth

RELATED STORIES

The Best Indoor Play Spaces in Miami

Things to Do with Kids in Miami, Florida

Miami’s Best Events for Kids & Families in February (and Most are Free!)

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement

The Week Is Launching a New Magazine Just for Kids

by Shahrzad Warkentin

Talking to your kids about the news can feel very daunting in today’s world. From war to climate change, it can feel a little scary to give your kids access to the news, but in the digital era it’s impossible to shelter them forever.

Instead, The Week Junior wants to give kids clear, straightforward information that allows them to formulate their own opinions on the world. The new publication is a weekly news magazine just for kids, which aims to make the conversation a little easier.

Aimed at readers ages eight to 14 years old, The Week Junior is a weekly spin-off from the global publication The Week. Each issue features 32 pages of engaging articles and eye-catching photographs designed to keep young readers interested and learning. The magazine covers current events, as well as featuring interviews, recipes, puzzles and other activities.

“The Week Junior stands for more than just a renaissance in print. It stands for helping children navigate the fast-moving and sometimes confusing world around them,” Andrea Barbalich The Week Junior’s U.S. Editor in Chief said in a press statement. “Through accurate, engaging and unbiased editorial, we are empowering children to think critically, form their own opinions and understand their place in the world. The Week Junior fosters a passion for reading and learning that will last a lifetime.”

The kids version of the magazine launched in the United Kingdom in 2015 and it instantly became an award-winning success. “When we launched The Week Junior in the UK, everyone told us that children don’t read the news; we proved them wrong,” said Kerin O’Connor, Chief Executive of The Week and The Week Junior. “Children are smarter and more eager to know what is going on than they are given credit for. Our mission is to inspire children with inspired reading.”

The Week Junior is launching in spring 2020 as a subscription-only publication. A one year subscription is $75 for 48 issues. You can subscribe here starting now. The first issue will arrive in March.

—Shahrzad Warkentin

All photos: Courtesy of The Week Junior

 

RELATED STORIES

New Activity Kits to Keep Them Busy This Winter

Best New Children’s Books of January 2020

The Best Kids 100 Books of 2019, According to Us (& Our Kids)

Advertisement

Related reads

Advertisement