Some years I’m not so into New Year’s resolutions, but for some reason, I’m really feeling the promise of a fresh start in 2012. Mom-guilt is a part of life for most moms, especially working moms, and this is the time of year when it’s easiest to parlay some of that guilt into action items. I can do better next ... Read More »

If you’ve been enjoying a staycation this week while the kids are out of school, chances are you’re looking for activities to keep them busy as this (or any) weekend approaches. Craft kits are a perfect way to pass the time, especially when it’s cold outside. Here are five of my recent favorites, and all but the last one are ... Read More »

First Night Boston Celebration 2012 A fun filled, alcohol-free New Year’s Eve celebration for the entire family; and includes over 250 different indoor and outdoor locations, performances, and a thousand musical, dance, theater and other artistic performers. Various Locations, Boston. Saturday, Dec 31, 2011 - Monday, Jan 2, 2012 Catskill Puppet Theater: JFK Library’s Celebrate The performance features an animated giant willow tree ... Read More »

Chanukah is notable for many reasons, but the tradition of eating fried foods is both wonderful and unfortunate. On one hand, there’s nothing more delicious than hot potato latkes with cold sour cream and apple sauce. On the other hand, it’ll take a lot of hours on the treadmill to offset the impact of that treat. As if the potato ... Read More »

Hans Christian Andersen’s ‘The Snow Queen’ The world premiere stage adaptation of Hans Christian Andersen’s exuberant ode to childhood, with live action and puppetry. Children and their families will have the opportunity to interact with the story. 64 Brattle Street, Cambridge. Now thru Dec 31, 2011 First Night Boston Celebration 2011-2012 Boston’s First Night celebration is a fun filled, alcohol-free New ... Read More »

Boston Pops Holiday Pops Kids Matinees 2011 These special family concerts include a children’s sing-along and photos with Santa. For those seated at the floor tables, there are special kid-friendly menu options along with holiday treats. Symphony Hall, Boston. Saturday, Dec 10, 2011 - Saturday, Dec 24, 2011 Visit Santa & Mrs. Claus: Harvard COOP Kids ages 2-7 can get their picture ... Read More »

Even though I am Jewish, and Santa never came to my home as a child, I still have quite a bit of reverence for jolly old St. Nick. Which is why I really look forward to his annual trip to Magic Beans (a tradition that goes back to 2006). When we first set out to recruit Santa, we were adamant ... Read More »

  Vanessa Trien and the Jumping Monkeys Enjoy a high-energy musical morning at the Coolidge Corner Theatre with Vanessa Trien and the Jumping Monkeys! This show will be filmed as they make live concert music videos to support their upcoming CD – come sing, dance and get caught on camera. 270 Tremont Street, Boston. Get your tickets now! Sunday, Dec 11, ... Read More »

Magic Beans is very proud to be partnering with the Make-A-Wish Foundation of Massachusetts and Rhode Island and Candlewick Press for a wonderful event this coming Monday, December 5 from 1-3pm. Bring your children over to the food court at The Shops at Prudential to meet Maisy and enjoy hearing some of Maisy’s favorite adventures read aloud in a cozy ... Read More »

Boston Common Tree Lighting Ceremony The heart of the city will be illuminated with seasonal cheer as Mayor Thomas M. Menino hosts Boston´s Official Holiday Tree Lighting. The Skating Club of Boston will also present a spectacular skating show at the Frog Pond. Boston Common, Boston. Thursday, Dec 1, 2011 Holiday Pops Kids Matinees w/Boston Pops These special family concerts include ... Read More »