Archives for October 2014

Boo! Yes, we’ve got indoor trick or treating in Tacoma, Puyallup, and your neck of the woods!

But, we’ve also got tons of fun things to do for the rest of the weekend, including pumpkin smashing, salmon spotting, and quality kids’ theater!

You’ll find a list just like this-just for the South Sound-every Friday morning!

Headed elsewhere? There is always lots more to explore  at ThriftyNWmom  thanks to frugal fun finder, Annaliese, of Grays Harbor Deals!

Saturday

All Over

Kids’ Club at Michael’s Michael’s offers 30 minute craft sessions for kids for 2.00 from 10-12:oo.  It’s a thankful turkey craft.

Kids’ Club at the Home Depot 9-12 Arrive early for these popular, free building events for kids

  Story time at Barnes and Noble   Many Barnes and Noble locations host free, weekly story time events at 11AM.   Olympia seems to participate regularly; You can meet Skippy Jon Jones at Lakewood! I always encourage you to call your store to confirm participation, as it is really inconsistent in this chain.

South King County

Visit the HCC Mast Center  at Redondo   The center and its touch tanks of sea critters are free and open to the public every Saturday from 10-2

Hansel and Gretel at Auburn Avenue Theater   This looks super cute, and tickets are a very reasonable 8.00  2PM [Read more…]

If you’re looking for a fun and safe Halloween alternative for young kiddos, don’t forget to check out the not-so-scary happenings with our sponsors at Pump It Up!

Kids are invited to dress in costume for a special,  Halloween themed open jump with games, activities, and plenty of bouncing. Oh, and your kiddos will be staying safe, warm, and dry! Sounds pretty great to me.

You can jump on in between 10AM-12 or 4-6PM on Friday.

If you’d like to have a little adult time, Pump it Up has a kids’ night out EVERY Friday, and Halloween is no exception!

You can head here to reserve your kids’ spots at, “Goblins’ Night In.”

Head here to get your place at one of the open jump sessions. You’ll save by purchasing in advance!

 

Disclosure: Pump It Up is a site sponsor. I would LOVE for you to mention Sounds Fun Mom when you jump on in!

 

If you’ve been looking for a deal on a Point Defiance Zoo membership, you’re in luck!

I happened to stumble across a super rare coupon offer for zoo membership in the Val Pak coupon envelope. It’s only 10% off, but honestly, that’s about as good as it gets in terms of zoo membership deals. They ran one comparable one with some bonuses  last year on Cyber Monday.

We’ve been zoo members for years, and while a membership isn’t cheap, I do think it’s a great deal.  [Read more…]

Here’s a fun idea from our sponsors at Frog n Kiwi in University Place.

Stop in Friday night (that’s Halloween) between 1 and 5PM,  and get one, high quality digital image of your cuties for just 10.00.

Vivid Images is your professional photographer, and you don’t need an appointment for these quick, three minute sessions.

I’ve never gotten great pics of the boys in their costumes because by the time I think of it it’s either dark out, or they’re crabby and tired.

I think this is a really clever idea.

Of course, Frog n Kiwi is also a great place for University Place area little ones to play and party.

You’ll find Frog n Kiwi cafe and the attached play area, right next to the University Place Library in UP town center. Owner, Marc, wanted me to be sure to remind you that you can park in the big, dry parking garage under the building! Don’t be intimidated by the Whole Foods construction-there is lots of room, and Frog n Kiwi is open, cozy, and just waiting for your visit.

We love the clean space, the imaginative playthings, and that we can enjoy a latte while the kiddos play!

We also love that their parties are affordable and can be customized just for you. So many popular places just aren’t flexible like that.

You can get more information about the photo event here. You can read more about Frog n Kiwi’s great party options here.

or read more about their fun play space here!

They do close from time to time for private parties and special events, so I do suggest you call or check their Facebook page before you head out.  To book a party or get more information on their party packages, give them a call at (253) 292-1318,

Disclosure: Frog n Kiwi is a site sponsor. Thank you SO MUCH for mentioning Sounds Fun Mom when you visit!

 

 

I’m excited to tell you about a fun and FREE opportunity for Tacoma area preschoolers just perfect for a rainy day!

 

Communities in Schools of Tacoma is offering another series of free storytimes at area elementary schools and community spots.

These events are designed to make sure kids are ready to hit the ground running when they start kindergarten. Storytellers are librarians, teachers, and professional volunteers.  Of course, your kiddos will love it, but I think you’ll enjoy these sessions, too. You’ll get tips on how to keep kids engaged in reading and other things you can do to foster a love of reading and learning. If you attend a school session, your kiddos will also able to check out books from the school library.

And I mentioned they’re all free, right?

All locations are drop-in and open to the public. If you attend an event at a school, you will need to sign in, of course. You’ll notice that our sponsors at Pump It Up of Tacoma are hosting a session. Why not combine your visit with some bouncing time (regular admission charges apply for that)? You’ll be exercising brains and bodies!

The complete schedule is below.  You can get more information about  Communities of Schools of Tacoma right here.  or email mkost@tacoma.k12.wa.us. 

Disclosure: I was not compensated for this post. Communities in Schools of Tacoma does help spread the word about Sounds Fun Mom. Pump It Up is a site sponsor. As always, all opinions are my own, and I love when you mention Sounds Fun Mom wherever your adventures take you! Thanks so much!

Do your kiddos play sports? We’ve tried several with each of the boys. Our older son’s favorite is soccer (Yeah-it was a little wet this weekend)! He’s been playing for several years now, and it’s so exciting to see how the boys have progressed from following the ball around in a big bunch (We call it, “Blob ball,”) to actually playing their positions and passing.

I will admit that I sometimes cringe when I see them running into each other and hitting the ball with their heads. Hey, their brains are in there! Yep, it can be nerve wracking to be a sports mom, and while I sometimes wish the boys would just stick to checkers, I’ve realized a more realistic plan is to make sure they have the right gear and instruction.

Our friends at Aflac provided some other tips for sports safety I thought you might enjoy. While a few are specific to youth football, I think you’ll find them to be smart ideas for any sport.  I’d love you to share your best advice, too.

Safety Tips For Youth Athletes

•  Football = lots of gear! Some equipment may look “optional,” but it is important to wear all necessary pads and safety gear each time you play. If you show up for a practice or game without it, alert your coach immediately.
• Follow the rules  They keep the game fair, and they help keep athletes safe. Illegal plays can be seriously dangerous.
•  Listen to your body  If at any point you feel pain or discomfort while playing, notify your coach and get out of the game. While sitting on the sidelines is one of the most difficult situations a player can face,pushing through injuries increases the severity and keeps you out of action longer.
• Take the doctor’s orders After experiencing a sports injury, the first question a player often asks is, “When can I play again?” The answer depends on the injury. Always listen to your doctor.
• Choose your coach wisely. This one is a tip from the SFM house. Our boys have had amazing coaches and instructors. If you find yourself on a team where the  coach seems to have a, “Win at all costs,” kind of attitude, there is a good chance he/she isn’t making safety a priority. My two cents? I’d find another team.

Of course, accidents do happen-both on and off the field. Aflac’s supplemental insurance can make it a lot easier to cope with those unexpected expenses-and if you’ve ever even stepped foot in the emergency room, you know those can add up fast. You can get more information about supplemental insurance from Aflac right here.  You can also follow the Aflac duck on Facebook,  or Twitter .

You might have noticed that Aflac is running a season long campaign in partnership with Heisman Trophy, and everybody’s favorite duck has a new spot out, too.

The Aflac team also invites you to enter  the  Ultimate College Football Experiences Sweepstakes- for your chance at one of three amazing prize packages.

#AflacSweeps  winners will be announced Oct. 28, Nov. 4 and Nov. 11, and each prize package includes:

•      Two tickets to the biggest college football game of the weekend
•       Meet and greet with Desmond Howard
•       Round trip airfare
•       Hotel
•       Ground transportation to and from events
•       $500 prepaid debit card for food and other expenses

***** To enter, just head here.  ****

CONSUMER NOTICE: NO PURCHASE NECESSARY TO ENTER OR WIN. PURCHASE WILL NOT INCREASE YOUR CHANCES OF WINNING. VOID WHERE PROHIBITED OR RESTRICTED BY LAW. Open to legal permanent residents of 50 U.S. states and DC, 21 or older, who have Internet access and valid email address prior to 08/28/14. To enter and for Official Rules, including odds and prize descriptions, click here: https://www.facebook.com/aflacduck/app_143103275748075. This sweepstakes is in no way sponsored, endorsed or administered by, or associated with Facebook or Twitter. For a winner’s list (after 11/10/14), visit the Ultimate College Football Experience tab of this page or mail request to Aflac “Ultimate College Football Experience” (Specify Winner List), Media Relations, 1932 Wynnton Road, Columbus, GA 31999. Sponsor: American Family Life Assurance Company of Columbus.

I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.

Hey, Puyallup, our friends at TIffany’s Skate Inn sent over a note that they’re offering Free Admission Sunday, November 2nd, from 1-5Pm when you bring in a jar of peanut butter to donate to the food bank. I love it when a good deal meets a good cause. It’s kind of like chocolate and, well…..you know.

 

You will have to pay to rent skates, which are 2.00 for the regular quads, and 4.00 for blades.

You may also want to bring along some cash for snacks or the video arcade.

Why peanut butter? It’s one of the food bank’s most requested items because it’s high protein, kid friendly, and doesn’t require heating or preparation.

You can read more about the good work of the food bank here

That post also has a list of their most wanted items, and you’ll note that peanut butter is featured prominently!  You should also know that the Puyallup food bank is a regional distribution center, so if you live elsewhere, be assured that they’re helping your neighbors, too.

You can see more info. about this event at Tiffany’s website  here or on their Facebook page.  (Warning: The website opens with loud music; don’t open it at work, or if you have a sleeping baby!).  Tiffany’s is also continuing to offer 2.00 skating specials every Tuesday, homeschool skates, and other fun.

Sunday

See this post for our guide to the best, family friendly pumpkin patches and corn mazes around the South Sound.

Go salmon spotting  volunteers from the Friends of the Cedar River Watershed will be on hand to help children spot salmon returning to spawn. Several Renton area locations.

Fall festival and trunk or treat at Puyallup United Methodist 

Halloween Event at the Museum of Flight free admission for kids in costume; special Halloween flight themed activities (think broomsticks and bats)!

 Fright Fest at Wild Waves  Rides,haunted houses, scare free area for kids under 12 and live entertainment. Online tickets are 22.99 for anyone over 48″ tall, plus tax and processing. This is a 5.00 discount off gate admission. You can get the same price at participating Safeway stores.  Kids under 48″ are 9.99. Last year, there were coupons at Spirit Halloween stores, and a 5.00 off deal one night with a donation.  I don’t see info. on either of those offers right now, but I’ll update this if I find out. I haven’t been to this. If you have, I’d love to hear your thoughts!  Weekends in October 

Haunted Theater at the Tacoma City Ballet Special back stage tours of specially decorated rooms.  Costumed dancers and a performance. Children are invited to wear costumes. The theater is Beautiful. Don’t be scared by the title-this is an event most children preschool age and up will enjoy.   Tickets are 5.00 and 6.00 and performances are select Friday, Saturday, and Sundays through the 26th

Visit the South Sound Estuarium interactive marine discovery! Open 11-4 weekends at their new location.

Know something great I missed? Want publicity for your group or advertising for your family friendly business?  Just let me know!

New here? I’d love to have you use the buttons at the top to join us on the Facebook page, follow me on Twitter, or subscribe to my emails so you don’t miss a thing!

Oh, and WAIT…..before you go, make sure you’ve entered to win tickets to Disney on Ice! You may also want to check our fall events guide for links to Halloween happenings and much more!

Boo! There are tons of Halloween happenings and fun things to do in Tacoma, Puyallup, Olympia, and all over the South Sound this weekend!

Best of all, there are lots of great, kid friendly events at my very favorite price-Free!

Headed elsewhere? There is always lots more to explore  at ThriftyNWmom  thanks to frugal fun finder, Annaliese, of Grays Harbor Deals!

[Read more…]