What’s the PSP Chinese Group talking about this week? Our parents have some recommendations for the best Lunar New Year picture books. Put in your order now to keep the festivities going!
Did you know that Park Slope Parents has more than a dozen bilingual and heritage groups to help you get connected to families in Brooklyn who share your cultural background? Click HERE to get connected; and if you’re not yet a member of PSP, join us HERE!
The ultimate gift guide for the 3s, 4s, and 5s in your life has arrived! From art supplies to costumes to puzzles and beyond, Park Slope Parents members have suggestions for kids of all genders, interests, and attention spans.
Read on for the recommendations—and if you’re not already a member of PSP,join our community today to connect with families raising young ones the same age as yours.
Shopping for someone on the younger side? We have
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Tweens and teens may be notoriously difficult to shop for, but our Park Slope Parents members have them outsmarted with these savvy suggestions.
Read on for the recommendations—and if you’re not already a member of PSP, join our community today to connect with parents in our Tweens & Teens Group!
According toBrookings, a record 83 percent of voters say that it really matters who wins the election in 2020. Compare that to the 2000 election between George W. Bush and Al Gore, when just 50 percent of the voters thought that it really mattered who won. That unprecedented level of enthusiasm could translate into record-high turnout in November, but achieving that will be a collective effort on a massive scale. Come on, PSP—let’s make it
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Whether you have to break your lease, your rent has risen dramatically, or you're being given notice that you have to leave your apartment, it can be hard to know what steps to take. If you’re finding yourself in a challenging situation with your apartment or small business venue, these resources and tips sourced from PSP members can help.
Includes meal planning tips, recipe ideas, and also suggestions for lunch and breakfast too!
Parents talk about raisining bilingual kids.
Question :
Well, we got our first kid-noise complaint today. My downstairs neighbor wrote: I can hear your son running back and forth, back and forth. I can pretty much hear everything down here. Its a bit much, especially at 7:30 AM. "
Studies show that women still do more household chores than their partner, including childcare and maintenance. Some call it the invisible workload; others refer to it as the household gender gap or the second shift. Interesting data can be found elsewhere (like this 2016 Huffington Post article) and PSP members have plenty of anecdotal evidence. PSP members alsohave useful tips and advice about how they distributed childcare tasks. This article
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One parent raised the following dilemma: “how do parents meet competing needs of all beloved household creatures when they don't fall together, time-wise?’
Plagued by skeeters? PSP members have tips to keep your yard clear so that you can hang outdoors without unwittingly turning yourself into a feast.
Looking for a a new addition to the family? PSP members have advice on adopting (or fostering) a dog.
- Remember that YOU will be spending a lot of your time with your dog. Make sure you feel confident your family will be able to provide your pet a good and loving home in 5, 10, or 15 years.
- If you are not ready to commit to adoption, try fostering a dog. This is a great way to see if a dog might be right for your family or not.
- Find a dog
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Have you found or lost a cat or dog in the neighborhood? Here's what to do...
Interested in Fostering a kitty or dog?
With a few simple steps, rules and preparation, home exchanges and subletting can be a really positive experience. As a renter, housing exchanges can offer you the comforts of being in a home and provide your family with plenty of space and amenities. And as a host, you can even make some money from renting out your home to visitors.
Over the years, PSP members have asked the group about smelling cigarette and cigar smoke from their neighbors.
From a PSP-er who has been there, done that and had to throw away the T shirt (or at least tumble dried it for 30+ minutes)
With fall comes spectucular autumn folliage. Nothing beats the sound of leaves crunching under our feet. Sadly, New York City streets just can't handle all of it. The leaves, as lovely as they are, clog gutters & drains (especially if you sweep leaves down 'em). And what happens then? Flooding in your apartment. Plus, when leaves pile up it is impossible for street cleaners to do their job. And what happens then? We are left with dirty streets.
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More bed bugs questions answered...
(bed bugs have six legs and are very flat - almost paper thin that helps make them expert hiders)
The Do's & Don'ts of double parking in New York City.
As one PSP Member writes: "my son is starting Kindergarten this fall after having been in a preschool / day care that took care of all of his meals every day. He's used to having hot, healthy meals which basically consist of rice / noodles and a protein and a vegetable (like a stir fry type of thing). Now I have to start making him lunch and I'm not sure where to start..."
Recommendations from the PSP community on iPhone apps their kids love.
It's FALL and the leaves are beautiful right now. Take some time to use the backdrop of the fall to get some great photos of your family.
While owning a car in New York City has many advantages, one of its disadvantage is parking - and dealing with alternative street parking, especially when you gone for a long period of time and won't be around to move it. What do you do? Here are PSP member tips for parking while on vacation.
Tips and recommendations from PSP members for what to wear when your feet swell during pregancy.
Looking to maintain a vegan diet during pregnancy and/or the postpartum period? PSP members on our Vegan & Vegetarian Families Group have advice for all stages of the journey.
Important Message from Park Slope Parents (PSP): Just a reminder, PSP member posts are not checked for accuracy. The content is for general informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice. www.parkslopeparents.com is not intended to, and does not,
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Parents share how they get organized at work (and also at home) and talk tips, strategies and more about how to stay focused on the job.
Does your Tween have problems putting down a video game? One parent asks the PSP advice list about dealing with screen time and anger management issues with their Tween.
"Show me the money!"
Errr - does that sound more like your Tweenager than Tom Cruise in the movie Jerry Maguire? For us moms and dads, sometimes we want it to be more like show me the value and appreciation of money.
What guidelines and boundaries do you set with your cell phone? Here, PSP members discuss, deliberate and debate boundaries and use of mobile phones and technology.
“Zoom fatigue” is very real for us grown-ups, and we were used to staring at screens and making small talk all day even before the pandemic started—so it’s no surprise that young children are at the end of their ropes when it comes to video chatting. If your kids are hesitant about recounting their day to grandparents over FaceTime for the 100th time since March, have no fear: PSP members are here with tips on virtual activities with
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In the early schooling years, kids need a backpack that can fit schoolwork and snacks without slipping off their little shoulders. Check out PSP member-approved backpacks below—and if you’re not a member of Park Slope Parents, join us to connect with a community that will share their wisdom from the expectant months all the way through the college years!
Shopping for the chef in your life? Here are some tools that PSP members love to make slicing, dicing, peeling, and boiling a breeze.
Not yet a member of Park Slope Parents? Join us today to connect with a community who will chop it up with you both in the kitchen and on the playground. Already a member? Go here to join the Cooking Group!
The Park Slope Parents Working Moms Group discusses all facets of nurturing a career and a family, from parental leave to pumping at work and beyond. Here are highlights from a recent discussion on the best commuting bags/backpacks that can convert to diaper bags!
Want to connect with fellow working moms? Find the groupHERE in your PSP membership account.
Not yet a member of PSP?Join us today to get connected to Working Moms, Career
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With all of the options out there for keeping little ones entertained, it can be easy to get overwhelmed. Park Slope Parents members to the rescue, with recommendations for toys and play appropriate for babies in the under-one age range.
We’ve also got plenty more shopping lists for the other young ones in your life:
-Stuff for Baby (key provisions for newborns)
-Fantastic First Birthday Gift Ideas
-The PSP Gift Guide: 3s, 4s, and 5s
-The
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Whether your child is enrolled in forest school, contending with unexpected outdoor classes due to the pandemic, or just bundling up for playtime in the park, proper gear is essential! PSP members have your little one covered (literally) with these recommendations.
This article also includes tips for wintertime babywearing gear.
Remember—there is no bad weather, just bad clothes!
Your little one may not remember their first birthday festivities, but that doesn’t mean you can’t get them something meaningful that will provide hours of fun, spark their creativity, and stimulate their imaginations. From magnets to memory books, our members have suggestions to suit every baby and budget.
Shopping for someone on the older side? We have crowd-sourced Top Toddler Toys and Activities, plus the PSP Gift Guide: 3s, 4s, and 5s!
Come March 1, 2020, New Yorkers will be required to BYOB—bring your own bag, that is. In a state where over 23 billion plastic bags are used every year, the bag waste reduction law—which bans all plastic carryout bags from distribution by anyone who collects New York State sales tax—aims to mitigate harm on our communities and the environment. (NOTE: this law doesn't apply to restaurants.) There's just one problem: How in the world are we going to
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A decade ago, stores like H&M, Forever21, and Zara seemed like a wonderland: cheap, easy, and constantly rotating stock to match the latest style. But today, with Forever21 officially bankrupt and the climate crisis dominating public discourse, the detrimental effects of “fast fashion” at all levels of the supply chain are increasingly coming to light. Fortunately, it’s easy to take steps toward being a more responsible consumer—and doing so need not mean
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Members on our Park Slope Parents Toddler Groups have shared creative ideas for keeping little ones entertained. Read on for the recs—and if you're a parent in Brooklyn who's not yet a member of PSP, find your community by joining us today!
Shopping for someone on the younger side? We have crowd-sourced Fantastic First Birthday Ideas. Older? Head to the PSP Gift Guide: 3s, 4s, and 5s.
Wondering what to do if your stroller breaks? PSP members share what they did to get their stroller fixed.
Follow these guidelines from our experienced Stoop Salers.
You’ve seen our tips for holding a stoop sale. Here are the top PSP tips for shopping at one…
A rundown of the second-hand, vintage and consignment stores in Park Slope.
Know what you're getting when you hire a photographer. Some photographers don't include the price of your digital image in their session rate, some people will give you all the digital negatives, and others only a few. Here are some things to think about as you hire a photographer.
Do you have no power - literally and figuratively? PSP members talk about the power struggle when your utlities company won't follow up with your requests.
Thinking of hiring someone to keep your apartment neat and tidy? Browse through PSP members’ first-hand experiences to get a better feel for the logistics and special considerations involved.
"Does anyone have a tip on how to divvy up household chores and duties?" was a simple question that resulted in a truely PSP-style way: a lively and engaging discussion about egalitarian households, gender dynamics, work/life balance, and more.
This article is a summary of PSP member deliberation and discussion about ConEd, raises alternatives like Green Mountain and the 2014 increase in electrical costs.
When Benjamin Franklin said nothing is certain but death and taxes - he had no idea about the problems and headaches of cable and internet bills. This article is a summary of PSP member deliberation and discussion about Time Warner Cable (TWC), Leaf, Netflix, Apple TV, FiOS, and more…
Sleep training your child can be an anxious experience in itself. This anxiety is emphasized in New York, where many parents get nervous about upsetting their neighbors with their crying baby in the early hours of the morning. What can you do to keep the peace with your neighbors?
It’s time to face the financial facts. Stop avoiding and start planning. PSP moms and dads share the realities of figuring out finances.
So your neighbors said you are too loud. What should you do when you’re the one making the noise?
Tips for taking care of your tree pits.
Bed bugs have infested hotels, movie theaters, public transportation, schools, dorms, etc., etc. They also are showing up in the apparel in retail stores, likely brought in from overseas in the original shipment. The bugs are hitchhikers and frequently lay eggs on, or find their way into, clothing, luggage and furniture. Note: to protect yourself entirely from bed bug exposure is practically impossible, but there are many efforts that can
...Where you can recycle batteries, electronics, plastics, running shoes, cell phones, ink cartridges and more in Park Slope.
"A few months ago we bought some rice in bulk and ended up with moths too. Even after throwing out the bag, and combing through the rest of our food to make sure there weren't any more infestations, we still have moths flying around our kitchen. Does anyone have ideas for a surefire (and not too toxic) way to get rid of them?"
Check out member advice below, and read reviews for local exterminators HERE on the PSP website!
Stuck in a meal planning rut? The PSP Cooking Group is here to help with quick and healthy recipes that will appeal to kids of all ages.
To connect with the Cooking Group, log into your membership account and go here. Not yet a member of Park Slope Parents? Join us today!
PSP members have tons of ideas on how to freshen up your child’s lunch box, including peanut butter alternatives if you attend an allergy-safe camp.
Want more? Check out School Lunch and Snack Ideas, which includes recipes sourced by PSP members—and if you’re not yet a member of the community, join PSP today!
There’s nothing like summer heat to make you lose your appetite. Fortunately, PSP members have you covered with ideas for thoughtful and delicious recipes to make for all of your friends with new summer babies!
Below are some helpful resources for parents at all stages of the vegan/vegetarian/plant-based journey. For more, Park Slope Parents has a Vegetarian/Vegan group. Join here if you are a Brooklyn parent and want to gain access to other families who are raising their children on a plant-based diet!
Looking for alternative ideas to sugary cereals and sweets to feed you and the kiddos for breakfast? Here, parents list their favorite morning meals that are easy to prepare. Mix your morning up...
How to braise delicious roast vegetables.
delicious recipes you can make with food you would normally toss.
easy - and yummy - recipe suggestions for busy moms and dads.
How to make simple syrup for cold and hot beverages... a watermelon Popsicle recipe thrown in there too!
Some delicious ideas and tips for preparing kale...
How to peel eggs...
How to get your kids to eat well at Brooklyn schools.
Gingersnaps in a snap and other quick baking ideas
How to can fruit and pickle veggies.
Suggestions for what to make with veggies from the CSA box.
A note from the former PSP food writer...
Wondering how to get your kid out of bed in the morning? You are not alone with this problem! Here, PSP parents share how they successfully get their teen/tween out of bed in the morning.
Parents share their tips for getting out of the house on time as easily, quickly, calmly, and pain-free as possible.
Tips for getting to school on time and suggestions of what your "routine" should look like.
One parent's love tor finding a tool for organizing "scooter clutter"
Park Slope Parents members share advice on successful cohabitation between siblings, including tips on preparing for a room share and troubleshooting if things go awry with the new roommates.
PSP members share their two cents on what you need to know about allowance.
Moving?
Here are useful links to bookmark and have handy as you prepare your move. We've got advice about the logistics of moving with small kids, what to tip movers, the differences of small vs. large moves, how to get your security deposit back, bed bugs (ugh), and more!
Moving can be a stressful time. But if you take steps to familiarize yourself with the way it is regulated and what rights and responsibilities you have, you'll likely have a much smoother move. Here are some things to think about as you prepare for your move.
Need some tips for making the transition with kids run more smoothly? Check out our Moving with Kids article.
Image by Nicolas Huk
Are you currently agonizing over moving out of the ‘hood and exploring what options there are beyond Park Slope?
One PSP member and licensed Real Estate Broker shares all you need to know for avoiding a security deposit "situation"
A guide to helping you find bad landlords and bed bug history in the house hunt!
Advice from PSP members about making the transition to a new home as smooth as possible—before, during, and after the move.
In a recent webinar sponsored by PS 321, speech-language pathologist and mindfulness teacherSusan Ehlerman Brennan shared her wisdom on using tech to enhance your child’s social world. Park Slope Parents listened in on Brennan’s insights as she made a case for how technology—far from rotting kids’ brains—can actually enhance and expand their interactions and interpersonal connections, both remotely and in person.
Below, we’re sharing some key
...Did your child get a new laptop, smartphone, or other electronic device? This is a good time to educate your child about safety surrounding their device - both online and in the real world. This is also a good opportunity to consider a technology agreement (PSP provides you with one!). This is also a good time to think about your family's policy surrounding social media.
A parent asks: "I'm looking for successful strategies for limiting device time. How do you set clear, enforceable limits without too much resistance, arguing or stress? I have a 10 year old who is predictably addicted to her new iphone. I'd be grateful for any advice."
Looking to change your name when making things official with your partner or anticipating the birth of a baby? Here's what you need to know.
Many thanks to PSP member Eileen for sharing these helpful steps from her own name-change experience!
In the market for a grill? Read on for the best brands, advice on propane vs. pellet, and more.
If you’re a parent in Brooklyn who’s not yet a part of Park Slope Parents, join us today to get connected to the Cooking Group, the Dads Group (where this awesome grilling discussion took place), and so much more!
The PSP Best and Easy Meet-Up Map is an interactive, crowd-sourced resource featuring the best spots all over Brooklyn to meet up with your pregnancy, baby, toddler, or kid group.
If you're a parent in Brooklyn who's not yet a member of PSP, head HERE to get connected to your new community.
Always forgetting where you left your car? Because locating a parking spot is only half the battle, Join PSP and get advice on all aspects of living and raising kids in Brooklyn, from finding a car to feeding a baby and far beyond!
Just arrived in the wild and wonderful world of NYC? Read on for must-know tips and life hacks from your new neighbors. And even if you're a seasoned New Yorker, you might just learn something new!
Spoiler alert:Our top tip is to join Park Slope Parents if you're a parent in Brooklyn! Since 2002, PSP's powerful, passionate, and caring community of 7,000+ member families has shared advice online and IRL on everything from child care to health
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Car ownership ticked up dramatically during the Covid pandemic: Cars.com reported that through June 2020, walk-ins at New York City-area car dealerships were up 38% that year, compared to an overall nationwide increase of 6%. If you’re in the market for a four-wheeler, read on for tips from PSP members; and if you’re still deciding, first check out our article on To Own or Not To Own A Car in New York.
Advice for public transit–loving parents on getting baby home from the hospital and handling doctor's appointments in the early days.
Click here for details on where to vote in your neighborhood
A round-up of podcasts, articles, and resources shared by PSP members to help you educate yourself and your family on the legacy of anti-Asian racism in the United States and how we can move forward.
Photo via Elvert Barnes
The positive effects of bilingualism on all areas of life, from brainpower to academic and career success, have been well documented. If you've chosen to raise your child with more than one language, the Park Slope Parents Guide to Raising Bilingual Children—featuring insights from three speech and language professionals—is the perfect handbook to help you through each stage of the journey.
From books to bookstores, blogs, and more, here are some resources and ideas for raising a family with multiple languages.
A curated list of movies, books, and resources to help families of tweens and teens educate and engage.
Looking to add a four-legged friend to your family? PSP members have all the recommendations you need for the purr-fect cat adoption, as well as thoughts on whether fostering might be right for you.
Do you wake up to the sound of the morning chorus in Park Slope and Brooklyn?
Photo: an American Kestrel in Prospect Heights (image via here, thanks to a Creative Commons license)
Yes, there are Raccoons in Brooklyn! However cute they may be, they can be a nuisance when they forage in your trash, nest in your roof, or sneak into your kitchen. Here are tips from your PSP neighbors!
So you found a baby bird fallen out of it's nest. Here are some following resources to help your winged friend!
Advice on introducing your dogs or cats to your baby.
Radiator covers are your responsibility as a parent (not the landlord's). How do you make sure kids don't touch the radiators or pipes? You can either purchase covers (price ranges from $150 - $500) or fabric pads (e.g., Rad Pads, $50-$100), have covers especially made (see PSP recommendations of people who can make them for you), or some of the less costly alternatives given by PSP members::
PSP Members share advice about handling mold.
Information about safegaurding your house when hiring housekeepers/nannies/caregivers and other hired help around the home.
To own a car, or to not own a car in Brooklyn - that is the question...
