We have a discussion/communication time in every Bradley™ class session.  Towards the end of the series, we ask, "What else do you need/want to learn before your Sweet Pea arrives?"

Our Winter Class came up with the most varied list that we have had in a long time.  There is a lot of information rattling around in my head after parenting and teaching for the last ten years, so I prepared this list for them and sent it out after class.  Since the work was done, I also wanted to share it with you.

Please leave us a comment if your favorite resource in these categories is not listed.  We are always glad to learn about more places that encourage and support growing families.

Sorry this is a day late this week - good news is that there are still lots of amazing events to choose from in the next four days!

  

New this week: check out our listing of splash pads in the East Valley, as well as a link to find other splash pads around the Phoenix, Arizona area.  They generally open in May and will remain open until September or October.  They are a great reason to get out of the house and change your space on a day that needs fresh energy ;)

 

Thursday, May 15, 2014
Educate yourself about risks, benefits, and choices when it comes to vaccinations!
This is the #1 of a four part series - this class focuses on Measles, Mumps, Rubella and Chickenpox.
Taught by Kari Hanks, this class is only $5 per couple! Contact Kari Hanks by email at [email protected] to sign up.

Nurturing Hearts Birth Services @ 7:00 pm
40 W Brown Rd Suite 108
Mesa, Arizona 85201 

 

Tuesday, May 20, 2014
Travel through time and explore everyday objects.  Designed for 3-5 year olds and their caregivers.  Third Tuesday of the month.  10am, Chandler Museum. Free.  This month’s  theme: May 20  Stinkers
McCullough-Price House @ 10:00 am – 11:00 am
300 S. Chandler Village Drive
Chandler, AZ 85226
480-782-2717

Wednesday May 21, 2014

Kids can play with an assortment of wheeled toys or venture within a bounce house while enjoying some music.

Cost: $3; $2 Chandler residents 

Tumbleweed Recreation Center @ 9:00 am – 11:00 am

745 E. Germann Rd.
Chandler, AZ 85286

 

Thursday, May 292014

Educate yourself about risks, benefits, and choices when it comes to vaccinations!
This is the #2 of a four part series - this class focuses on Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis (Whooping Cough)
Taught by Kari Hanks, this class is only $5 per couple! Contact Kari Hanks by email at [email protected] to sign up.

Nurturing Hearts Birth Services @ 7:00 pm
40 W Brown Rd Suite 108
Mesa, Arizona 85201 

 

MONDAY, MAY 12, 2014
National Geographic Kids Club 
The Arrowhead Towne Center Kids Club is a great opportunity for your child to learn in a fun, interactive setting.  Meet in the JCPenney wing now through mid-November!

May 12th Find the birds in your yard and sing "Robin in the Rain"

Arrowhead Towne Center @ 10:00 am

7700 W. Arrowhead Towne Center
Glendale, AZ 85308-8612
623-979-7777

Central Phoenix ICAN Meeting - this meeting will be repeated at the East Valley meeting on Wed, May 18th
Topic: Baby Blues, PPD, PTSD and Cesarean Depression
This meeting will cover the many signs and symptoms of Postpartum Depression and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. If you've suffered from any of these after a cesarean or vaginal birth, please come and share your experiences. We will discuss the difference between the different disorders and how to tell the difference between "baby blues" and something more serious. We will offer a place to share, support each other and will talk at length about how to get help so you can start to heal.
Kids Rising! @ 7:00 – 9:00 pm
4332 N 24th Street
Phoenix, Arizona 85016

TUESDAY, MAY 13, 2014
Tumbleweed Tots
This indoor play area is designed for children 5 years of age and under to play under parental/guardian supervision. This fun, safe and clean area will have plenty of toys, equipment and activities that are sure to keep the kids entertained. There is a maximum of four children per adult. Cost: $3.00. Fee included in all TRC family passes.
Tumbleweed Rec Center @ 9am – 11am
745 E. Germann Rd.
Chandler, AZ 85286
480-782-2900 

La Leche League – Tempe 
LLL is an international, nonprofit, nonsectarian organization dedicated to providing education, information, support, and encouragement to women who want to breastfeed. All women, especially pregnant and nursing mothers, are welcome to attend our meetings. http://www.lllofaz.org/
Desert Cross Lutheran Church @ 9:30 am
8600 S McClintock Dr. (Just north of Warner Rd)
Tempe, AZ

 

Homebirth Circle 
Come join the beautiful space and share thoughts about life, babies and love.  The circle is open to any adult and lap babies only.  Feel free to bring a healthy snack to share. 

Freedom and The Seed Office @ 12:00 pm – 2:00 pm
714 W Marlboro Dr

Chandler, Arizona 85225
480-528-1689

Fish Feeding
Come see an 18,500 gallon freshwater aquarium that offers an up-close view of trophy-sized catfish, bass, striper and blue gill.  Feeding includes an informative presentation about the fish.  Saturdays and Sundays at 2:00 pm and Tuesdays at 6:00 pm.  Also, every day kids can help us feed the trout in our Trout Stream at 1:30pm.
Bass Pro Shop Trout Stream @ 1:30 pm
Bass Pro Shop Aquarium @ 6:00 pm
1133 N Dobson Rd
Mesa 85201
602-606-5600

Prenatal Yoga + Fitness
This prenatal yoga + fitness class will have all the elements of a traditional vinyasa (flow) yoga, designed for your prenatal needs, with added options for any mommas seeking a little extra fitness to compliment and enhance pregnancy, as well as help you to prepare for you upcoming birth journey.  Any stage of pregnancy is welcome (including postpartum), as is any fitness level.  Classes are $10 drop in or $30 for 4 classes. 
Emerge Acupuncture & Community Center @ 5:30 – 6:30 pm
123 E. Baseline Road, Suite D102
Tempe, Arizona 85283
480-466-2004

WEDNESDAY, MAY 14, 2014
Inn Families

Moms, Dads, and Babies are all welcome for Inn Families at The Nest at Babymoon Inn. Meet with other parents or families and chat about parenting or any other topics of interest while the babies play.

The Nest at Babymoon Inn @ 9:30 – 11:00 pm 
220 E Lexington Ave 
Phoenix AZ 85012  
602-314-7755  

National Geographic Kids Club 
The Chandler Fashion Center Kids Club is a great opportunity for your child to learn in a fun, interactive setting.  Meet in the Gap wing near the Food Court now through mid-November!
This week’s theme: In your backyard you may have ducks that go quack with yellow bills and pretty feathers on their back. 
Chandler Fashion Center @ 10:00 am - 11:00 am
3111 W Chandler Blvd
Chandler, AZ 85226
(480) 812-8488

Music Time
Enjoy singing, simple instruments and movements with your child.  For children ages 5 and under and their caregiver.
Bookmans Mesa @ 10:00 – 10:30 am
1056 S. Country Club Dr.
Mesa, AZ 85210
480-835-0505

Blossoming Moms Breastfeeding and Postpartum Support
Pregnant moms are welcome too!  

Facilitator: Michelle Hottya, IBCLC 818-606-5687
Blossom Birth and Wellness Center @ 11:00 am
2928 N 16th Place
Phoenix, AZ 85016 

Dignity Healthcare Breastfeeding Support Group
With the exception of major holidays… For more information, please call the ResourceLink toll-free 1 (877) 728-5414, Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5:30 pm
Chandler Regional Medical Center @ 11:00 am to 12:30 pm
1955 W Frye Rd
Chandler, AZ 85224

Pregnancy And Postpartum Depression Support Group
Free support group to help moms support each other through the adjustments of pregnancy and postpartum anxiety/depression.  Partners, Babies & Toddlers are Welcome.  No Registration Necessary.    Free parking available off of Frye Road. Meeting held in the Morrison Building (blue roofed building just east of Chandler Regional) – follow signs.  For Questions Call:  Resource Link 480.728.5414 or
480.728.5617 (Recorded line with more information)
Group Contact:  Missy Beauchamp  480-728-5620
Chandler Regional Medical Center @ 1:00 – 2:30 pm
1955 West Frye Road
Chandler, AZ 85224

Inn Mommies: Cuddlers Group (birth-around 7 mo)

Please join us Wednesday at 1:00 p.m.! This is a group for expecting and new mommies with babies that are not yet crawling and is open to women giving birth at home, at Babymoon Inn, or in a hospital. This is a wonderful group where you can come and meet other new moms and their babies. We usually have a topic each week and also time to get to know each other. Open to the community, for all mommies and their babies (expectant mommies too). Bring your lunch if you like, the Babymoon Inn coffee and tea bar will be open :-). Hope to see you there! Please no older siblings in the Cuddlers group.
The Nest at Babymoon Inn @ 1:00 pm 
220 E Lexington Ave 
Phoenix AZ 85012  
602-314-7755  

Phoenix Art Museum
It’s never to early to start art appreciation with your Sweet Peas.  You can enjoy PhxArtKids, an interactive space for children, along with galleries of art showcasing American, Asian, European, Latin American, Western American, modern and contemporary art, and fashion design.  The Phoenix Art Museum offers free admission every Wednesday afternoon and on First Fridays.
Phoenix Art Museum @ 3:00 – 9:00 pm
1625 N. Central Ave.
Phoenix, AZ 85004
602-256-7539

Wildflower Kids
Every Wednesday, Wildflower kids enjoy a complimentary cookie, milk & activity.  Program offered at all locations.  Find your nearest store HERE 
Wildflower Bread Company @ 3:30 pm to 4:00 pm
Chandler Fashion Center
3111 W. Chandler Blvd., Suite 1100
Chandler, AZ, 85226
480-821-8200

Phoenix Public Market
“our Open-Air Market is a natural gathering place that celebrates neighborhoods and the neighbors. It offers an eclectic high-quality mix of: Fresh in-season fruits and vegetables, produce, flowers, jams, baked goods, dried beans, free-range eggs and honey, live plants and unique local arts and crafts, tasty hot foods, music, and more.

Open Air Market @ 5:00 pm – 8:00 pm
721 N Central
Phoenix, AZ

Prenatal Yoga  
Prenatal yoga is an excellent exercise and helps prepare your body and your mind for labor and birth. Each class is an hour long and incorporates a birthing theme, birthing affirmation, breathing techniques and guided relaxation. Prenatal classes are open to pregnant women in their 2nd and 3rd trimesters. It is recommended that women take it easy the first 12 weeks of their pregnancy and allow their body that time to become accustomed to the changes of pregnancy. Beginners are welcome, no previous yoga experience is required. If you practiced yoga before becoming pregnant, variations and different levels are offered. Classes will educate, empower and encourage you through heart opening poses with philosophy and techniques of a healthy, calm and joyful yoga practice preparing you for a beautiful and peaceful birth experience. Classes are $10 each.
The Nest at Babymoon Inn @ 6:00 pm 
220 E Lexington Ave 
Phoenix AZ 85012  
602-314-7755 

THURSDAY, MAY 15, 2014
Tumbleweed Tots
This indoor play area is designed for children 5 years of age and under to play under parental/guardian supervision. This fun, safe and clean area will have plenty of toys, equipment and activities that are sure to keep the kids entertained. There is a maximum of four children per adult. Fee included in all TRC family passes.
Tumbleweed Rec Center @ 9am – 11am
745 E. Germann Rd.
Chandler, AZ 85286
480-782-2900 

 

National Geographic Kids Club 
The Superstition Springs Center Kids Club is a great opportunity for your child to learn in a fun, interactive setting. We've teamed up with National Geographic Kids to create activities and games that focus on discovery through play.  Hosted by Persephone with Dewper the Prairie Dog every Thursday in the JCPenney Court. This week's theme:
Birds come in all kinds of colors and sing many different songs. Some tails are short, some are very long.
Superstition Springs @ 10:00 am – 11:00 am
6555 E Southern Ave
Mesa, AZ 85206
480-832-0212

Chandler Farmer’s Market
This Farmers Market hosts a variety of vendors including produce, baked goods, salsa, jams and honey, olive oil, seafood, granola, beauty products, and much more!  The Craft Market will be held once a month on the first Thursday of each month.  Come find hand made and hand crafted items from local artisans.
Dr. AJ Chandler Park @ 3:00 pm – 7:00 pm
3 South Arizona Avenue
Chandler, AZ
480-855-3539

FRIDAY, MAY 16, 2014
Mesa Community Farmers Market
May include depending on season: fresh produce, baked goods, jams & jellies, salsas, spices, natural pork, beef and fish, hand-made craft products, lotions and soaps. Free admission, free parking. Accepts AZ Farmers Market Nutrition Program vouchers. Located near downtown Mesa and cafes, coffee shops, museums, and antique stores.
Rendezvous Green @ 9:00 am – 1:00 pm
263 N. Center St.
Mesa, AZ 85201 
602-290-5067

Dignity Healthcare Breastfeeding Support Group
With the exception of major holidays… For more information, please call the ResourceLink toll-free 1 (877) 728-5414, Monday through Friday from 8 am to 5:30 pm
Mercy Gilbert Medical Center @ 10:00 am to 11:30 am
3555 S Val Vista Dr.
Gilbert, AZ 85297

Groovy Kids Music
Groovy Kids Music is for babies and kids of all ages. Class participants can expect music and movement, singing, rhythm, instruments, and fun!! This class is for children of all ages. The cost is $10 for one child, and $5 for each sibling. RSVP if possible, but drop-ins are welcome! As always, the Babymoon Inn snack and drink bar will be open. We hope to see you there!
The Nest at Babymoon Inn @ 10:00 am & 11:00 am – two sessions!
220 E Lexington Ave 
Phoenix AZ 85012  
602-314-7755 

Storytime at Barnes & Noble
Charlie and the New Baby, by Ree Drummond, Diane deGroat (Illustrator)
Charlie the Ranch Dog receives plenty of loving care and attention. When the new baby comes along and seems to take his attention, he must learn that love only grows.

Barnes & Noble @ 10:30 am
3111 W. Chandler Blvd #2054
Chandler, AZ 85226
480-792-1312

Fun Fridays
Children 1 to 4 and their caregivers can enjoy themed events, including hand motion songs, sing-alongs, dancing, stories and games. Activities are designed to enhance musical, social, physical and memory skills. Caregivers must remain in the store.
Microsoft Store @ 10:30 am to 11:15 am
Scottsdale Fashion Square
7014 E. Camelback Road, Suite 1288
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
480-308-0800 

Food Truck Friday
Phoenix Public Market @ 11:30 am – 1:00 pm
721 N Central
Phoenix, AZ

Enchanted Island Family Night
There’s never a charge to enter Enchanted Island. You simply pay for the rides you want to ride on, the games you want to play, and the food you want to eat.  Friday nights, enjoy special pricing for unlimited rides: $6.50 for Children or Adults Wristbands 
Enchanted Island Amusement Park @ 5:00 – 9:30 pm
1202 W. Encanto Blvd.
Phoenix, AZ 85007
602-254-1200

Free Outdoor Concert – Tempe
Bring the family out to enjoy great live music performed by a variety of musicians.  Choose from two stages of entertainment.  For more information click HERE
Tempe Marketplace @ 7:00 pm
2000 E Rio Salado Pkwy
Tempe 85281
480-966-9338

Free Outdoor Concert – N. Phoenix/Scottsdale
Bring the family out to enjoy great live music performed by a variety of musicians.  Choose from two stages of entertainment.  For more information click HERE 

Desert Ridge Marketplace @ 7:00 – 9:00 pm
21001 N Tatum Blvd
Phoenix 85050
480-513-7586

SPLASH PADS
Click HERE for a more complete listing around the Phoenix area 

AHWATUKEE
Mountain Vista Park: spray pad, splash pad area open daily, approx. through October 1 from 5:30 am – 11:00 pm
13647 S. 50th Street (48th Street and Knox Road)
Phoenix, AZ  85044
(602) 262-6111 (South Division)

CHANDLER
You can find water play areas at these three parks.  Hours are from May 1 – August 31; 9:00 am – 7:00 pm
Call (480) 782-2752 for details.

Chuparosa Park Spray Pad (Dobson Rd., between Queen Creek & Germann roads)
Amenities:  1 ground spray, 4 spray rings, and 1 candy cane-shaped shower.
2400 S. Dobson Rd.
Chandler, AZ 85286

Desert Breeze Park Spray Animals (between Rural Rd. & McClintock Dr.), 
Amenities:  3 Dolphins, 1 elephant, and 3 ground sprays
660 N. Desert Breeze Blvd.
Chandler, AZ 85226

Espee Park Spray Pad (between Arizona Ave. & McQueen Road)
Amenities:  1 water tower, 3 candy cane-shaped showers, spray rings, ground sprays
450 E. Knox
Chandler, AZ 85225

GILBERT
Splash Pad at San Tan Village
The Splash Pad, located in the Children's Play Area, is now open.
Through October 26 @ 9:00 am – 6:00 pm daily
2218 E. Williams Field Rd.
Suite 235
Gilbert, AZ 85295
(480) 282-9500

SCOTTSDALE

Agua Linda Park, 8732 E. McDonald (Pima Road and McDonald)

Chesnut Park @ 8:00am to 5:00pm. 

4565 N. Granite Reef
Scottsdale, Arizona 85251
General: (480) 312-2771

 

Scottsdale has "spray poles" on the playgrounds at McCormick Stillman Railroad Park, 7301 E. Indian Bend Road (Scottsdale Road, north of Lincoln)

 

Paiute Park @ Sunrise - 10:30pm

3210 N. 66th Street (South of Osborn Road)
Scottsdale, AZ 85257
480-312-PARK (7275)

 

Pima Park 
8600 E. Thomas Rd
Scottsdale, AZ 85251
(480) 312-PARK (7275)

 

Vista del Camino Park @ Sunrise – 10:30 pm
(Indian Bend Wash complex)

7700 E. Roosevelt St

Scottsdale, AZ 85257
(480) 312-2330

TEMPE
Spray pads are conveniently located in the following parks.  Hours: 9:00am-7:00pm (Daily, Monday-Sunday)
Jaycee Park (located near the Westside Community Center)
817 West 5th Street
Tempe, AZ 85281
(480) 350-5200

Esquer Park (just east of the Loop 101 and north of Apache Blvd.)
2407 E McArthur Dr
Tempe, AZ 85281 

Hudson Park (south of Apache Blvd on Cedar Street between Rural & McClintock)
1430 S. Cedar St.
Tempe AZ

LIBRARIES:
Chandler, AZ http://www.chandlerlibrary.org/
Glendale, AZ http://www.glendaleaz.com/Library/index.cfm
Mesa, AZ http://www.mesalibrary.org/
Payson, AZ http://www.paysonlibrary.com/
Phoenix, AZ http://www.phoenixpubliclibrary.org/default.jsp
Peoria, AZ http://library.peoriaaz.gov/polaris/default.aspx
Scottsdale, AZ  http://library.scottsdaleaz.gov/
Tempe, AZ  http://www.tempe.gov/index.aspx?page=1588

Monterey, CA http://www.monterey.org/library/Home.aspx

To submit your event:
Please follow this format (same as above).  Anything that is not "copy-paste" ready may not be posted - it will depend on how much time I have between homeschooling and loving on four littles.
Event Name
Description & Cost
Location Name & Time
Address
Contact Phone Number
Send your event information to [email protected]

Disclaimer: 
The material included on this site is for informational purposes only.
It is not intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. The reader should always consult her or his healthcare provider to determine the appropriateness of the information for their own situation.  Krystyna and Bruss Bowman and Bowman House, LLC accept no liability for the content of this site, or for the consequences of any actions taken on the basis of the information provided.  This blog contains information about our classes available in Chandler, AZ and Payson, AZ and is not the official website of The Bradley Method®. The views contained on this blog do not necessarily reflect those of The Bradley Method® or the American Academy of Husband-Coached Childbirth®.

We have been getting back into our homeschooling schedule – loving our new curriculum!  I have a minute while everyone is asleep, which fits right into the theme for today – Bedtime Stories!

 

As the holiday seasons approach, I start to purge the house of all the extras.  I finally got to tackle our shelves of children’s books and did some sorting that was long overdue.  As stacks of books surrounded me, a pile of bedtime books we have for our children started growing higher and higher.  I had not realized how many books we have in this genre.

 

The books in the Bedtime Story pile got there because they are centered on the theme of going to bed or end with a sleeping character.  Some of them are repetitive and calming, which is great to settle and relax a child.   Some of them outline the routine, and some of the books are all about bedtime and nighttime adventures.  Since the goal is to get children to sleep, I like to start with one of the action or adventure books to interest and engage our older children, and then finish with a rhyming or repetitive word grouping book to calm everyone down.

 

Along with our book titles, I included books shared on a list of other bedtime stories to explore that was in “Goodnight Giant”.  I hope you find some new treasures on this list to share with your children, or maybe you can use this as a shopping guide for the next baby shower or birthday party you attend.  Some online booksellers offer previews before you buy – great tool for taking a peek at the titles from the comfort of your home!

 

Happy Reading and Sweet Dreams!

 

Fuzzy Bear's Bedtime ~ Piggy Toes Press

Goodnight Moon ~ Margaret Wise Brown

I Love You All The Time ~ J.E. Jirschman & J.E. Cole*

I'll See You In the Morning ~ Mike Jolley

Is Your Momma A Llama ~ Deborah Guarino

Lasso The Moon ~ Trish Holland

Song of Night: It's time to go to bed ~ Katie Riley Nakamura

The Sun's Asleep Behind The Hill ~ Mirra Ginsburg

Time For Bed ~ Mem Fox and Jane Dyer

 

Good Night, Arizona ~ Adam Gamble and Joe Veno

Good Night, Chicago ~ Adam Gamble and Joe Veno

Good Night, Gorilla ~ Peggy Rathmann

Guess How Much I Love You ~ Sam McBratney

I Love You All The Time ~ J.E. Jirschman & J.E. Cole*

 

Goodnight Giant ~ promo book published by Johnson & Johnson

Maisy's Bedtime ~ Lucy Cousins

Good Night, Baby! ~ DK Publishing

Song of Night: It's time to go to bed ~ Katie Riley Nakamura

 

Saying No (then Yes!) to Sleep:                                                                                                                                        Clifford's Bedtime ~ Norman Bridwell

Froggy Goes To Bed ~ Jonathan London

Good Night, Sleep Tight ~ Claire Freedman**

Llama Llama Red Pajama ~ Anna Dewdney

Sleep Tight Little Mouse ~ Mary Morgan

Tell Me Something Happy Before I Go To Sleep ~ Joyce Dunbar and Debi Gliori

 

Earth to Stella ~ Simon Puttock

Harold and the Purple Crayon ~ Crockett Johnson

Goodnight, Sleep Tight, Little Bunnies ~ Dawn Apperly

Pelly and Mr. Harrison Visit the Moon ~ Lindsay Ward

Polar Bear Night ~ Lauren Thompson

There's Something There! ~ Mercer Mayer three story collection***

Book Notes:

*I Love You All The Time shows a working mom

**Good Night, Sleep Tight has a grandmother putting child to bed

***There's Something There makes light of nightmares and monsters under the bed - the kiddos are the heroes