Our Favorite Parenting News Stories Of The Week

l_101360929The holiday season means that travel is imminent for many families–but what does that mean for expectant mamas? The list of tips for traveling while pregnant is super-helpful! (The New York Times)

As 2014 starts to draw to a close, it’s the perfect time to reflect on some of the most creative parenting memes and videos from the past year–check ’em out! (Mashable)

It’s official–as soon as the clock strike Black Friday o’clock, it’s present central! Get a jump on your holiday gifting with these sweet guide to alternative (and oh-so-pretty) wrapping paper picks. (Cup of Jo)

On the top of many kids’ and tweens’ wish list this year? Tickets to a Taylor Swift concert, of course! For parents who don’t feel so up for an evening of “shaking it off” with their Swifty kids, one Philadelphia-based babysitter is offering to step in–and her list of qualifications is sure to make you laugh and impress you! (Mommyish)

“Frozen” may have swept the lands as a smash-hit movie last year, but the real money-maker for Disney has come through merchandising. Get the scoop on just where your dollars are going when you throw down for the latest Elsa novelty item (The New York Times)

On the hunt for a new baby monitor? You may want to think twice before shelling out for a super-fancy one–studies are showing there’s no real benefit in going high-tech. (Mashable)

Not all Thanksgiving traditions have to be totally traditional — read this take on creating unique rituals for your fam this year. (Mommy Nearest)

You might be surprised at how many women have miscarriages on their journey to motherhood. One mom reflects on what hers taught her. (Well Rounded NY)

People has spoken! The sexiest man alive is a hands-on daddy! We love how involved Chris Hemsworth is in parenting his three little cuties–plus, just check out this steamy vid! (People)

Just for fun, enjoy this wild list of uber-hipster baby names! Is there a Juniper in your playgroup? (Babble)

 

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Collina Italiana, The Italian Language and Cultural Center

<p>Learn Italian the fun way. Children practice and absorb the language through arts & crafts, activities, games, songs and stories!</p>

Young Actors at Strasberg

<p>Young Actors at Strasberg offers a comprehensive array of acting programs for students in grades 2 – 12. Classes provide kids and teens with a foundation in Lee Strasberg's Method Acting and the tools to succeed in the professional industry – all while maintaining a fun and playful environment. Programs are tailored to encompass students at all levels, from those just beginning their acting journey to Broadway veterans and professional child actors. Young Actors at Strasberg alumni include Lady Gaga, Sophia Lillis, Angelina Jolie, Chris Evans, Scarlett Johansson and Rosario Dawson!</p> <p>Young Actors Programs are available online and in-person at our New York Campus, located in Union Square. Saturday, After-School and Online classes are offered during the traditional school year (Fall, Winter, and Spring) and Monday through Friday day camps and intensives are held in July and August.</p> <p><strong>About The Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute:</strong></p> <p>Founded in 1969 by Lee and Anna Strasberg, The Lee Strasberg Theatre & Film Institute is the only school that teaches Lee Strasberg's work in its complete and authentic form. The Institute's goal is to provide students with a craft that will help them create a reality and respond truthfully in imaginary circumstances, regardless of the style or form of material being used. LSTFI is proud to have award-winning alumni from around the world working as writers, directors, and actors in all mediums.</p>

Speakitaly NYC

<p>SPEAKITALY NYC offers stimulating and entertaining lessons for children 0 to 16 years through a wide combination of activities based on the communicative approach anchored in the Common European Framework of Reference: active learning (group work, role plays, etc.) and practice exercises aimed to improve listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Kids will start speaking and using Italian in a very natural way.  Small classes capped at 6 students to make sure each one gets the needed attention and facilitate learners' progress. </p> <p>Our method is driven by a didactic method that is the result of constant updates, professional certifications and more than 10 years of experience in working with non-native speakers from different native languages and levels of knowledge.</p> <p>Our aim is to develop a range of Italian language skills while improving accuracy that will enable the students and participants to interact without stress or feeling rushed. We want to help those in the community really embrace not only the true culture in Italy but the Italian culture within New York City… Who doesn’t love what Italy represents in the kitchen, in history & in the arts?</p> <p>Speakitaly wants to support multilingual families who want to learn a new language or pass along their ancestor’s heritage and culture. Raffaella, the founder said: "We see language awareness and intercultural sensitivity as the milestones for an inclusive society. Italian, like all other languages, is an enrichment and a growth in every way. Vi aspettiamo!"</p>