Congrats to Rebecca and GMS Gymnastics!

We have been loving gymnastics this year.  Savannah started at GMS before they started advertising with PwcMoms (which is my favorite way for this to work- then I already know I love the business before I start telling you guys about them!) and it's been great for her coordination and flexibility.  I don't expect we'll have anything like this happen, but it's such an incredible story that I have to share!

Congratulations to GMS and to Level 10 Gymnast Rebecca Chong, who trains there, on Rebecca signing with Yale!

What?

Her parents have GOT to be freaking out.  I know I would be! Way to go Rebecca!

Music Lessons in Prince William County with Musically Creative

Music consumes our lives.   We get in the car, turn on the radio, come home to music, watch American Idol and jog with our favorite tunes.  Did you ever stop to think that at one time these artists had no experience on their instruments or voices.   What an odd concept!   That’s where we come in…

We train beginners thru intermediate students how to play instruments!   You don’t have to wait until middle school to start!  We offer young guitar (ages 7-10), concert bands (ages 10 – adult), worship guitar (ages 10 – adult) and if there is enough interest, we will offer beginning strings or beginning recorders.   All of our classes are taught by trained and experienced music educators that love working with all ages!   We value music and want to make it affordable to all and therefore we offer classes for around $50 month.  We have multi-family member discounts as well since many siblings or parents like to take with their kids.  For this semester only we are offering a BOGO FREE BAND  (that would be around $25 month each!!) for two band members (must be siblings or parents).  

Classes are in Manassas and Gainesville and start in February, so there isn’t much time left to register.  Some classes will fill up!   For more details, visit www.MusicallyCreative.com today!

Stage Door Dance Studio Meetup

My daughter, who I thought hated anything traditionally "girlie" (see also: failed experiment at ballet) loved the reader meet up at Stage Door Dance Studio so much that she and her little BFF signed up for class!

With bedazzled leotards!! (I am so excited!)

SO EXCITED YOU GUYS!!

So excited.

Anyhow, our reader meet up was fantastic.  The kids got to try several different types of dance, and I think everyone had a really fun time.  Kelly, the director and Dance Teacher of the Year according to 2015 Best of Prince William, was so fun and excited to get everyone dancing, tumbling, and having a great morning!

Stage Door offers classes for ages 2.5 and up in various classes including:

Tap

Ballet

Jazz

Hip Hop

Lyrical

Tumbling

Pointe

As well as specialty classes in leaps and turns

The studio is large, well maintained, and inviting, and they even offer birthday parties! Also, they apparently win a lot, too...

Right now, when you register by December 1st, you can get your Dance Shoes on them! Classes are offered on both weekdays and weekends, and there's a little bit of something for every age and every level of dancer.

Thanks again to Stage Door Dance Studio for hosting our November Reader Meetup!

Giveaway: "Playground to Paris" Photography Workshop!

This week's giveaway is an awesome one if you've got aspirations of being a shutter bug!! Check it out, and remember- since spaces are limited, you can go ahead and sign up NOW if you want to ensure that you get a spot, and if you win, your fee will be refunded! 

Maybe it was Christmas morning when you received your first DSLR camera. Or shortly before or after the birth of your first child. You planned to document every milestone with crisp clarity - so perfect that it would appear that you were reliving the moment with each glance of the photograph. You excitedly opened the new box and unloaded a piece of machinery that weighs more than a small child and has more buttons and controls than an airplane cockpit. How in the world will you ever understand how to use this investment? All you wanted were a few good shots of your family!!! 

If you can relate to this common Mom dilemma, then this workshop is for you! 

Don't resort to accepting iPhone shots of your daughter's recital. Don't be ok with your son all blurry as he scores the winning goal! Or worse! Is your "good" camera stored at home - and you aren't even sure where! Gain control of your DSLR and proudly carry it with you to all your events and USE it like a Pro! 

"Playground to Paris" is a 3-hour hands-on experience with Rachael Nichols, teacher and photographer, as you learn how to get your DSLR OFF of Auto and ON to great family memories.

What's included:

Meet other beginning camera users who share your struggles of learning to use their DSLR camera

Discover what all the buttons are and when is the appropriate time to use which setting

An explanation and practical practice of the basics needed for Correct Exposure using Manual Mode. 

How to best work with kids/adults

Hands-on practice inside the meeting room and outside on the streets of Occoquan 

Complimentary Professional Headshots for all attendees (because you deserve to be in the spotlight too!)

Take-home materials for continued practice and review

Morning and Afternoon Snacks

Gift and raffle items 

Invitation to join an informative and interactive Facebook group open to workshop attendees only

Discounts for future sessions and workshops with Parlez-Vous Photography

Other details:

This practical and hands-on workshop will be held on

Sunday, October 4th. 9am-12pm

The Loft Gallery in Historic Occoquan

313 Mill Street, Occoquan VA

$150. 

**Use the Coupon Code: “PWCMoms" for a discounted rate of $100 (valid for registration before 10/06/15 

Limited seats are available. Please register early to ensure you have a spot. All participants will need to provide their own camera for use in class. 

While this class is perfect for parents wishing to photograph their families, it is also a great place for anyone who wants to get a better understanding of their DLSR camera in a hands-on, practical setting. 

Register now HERE!  (http://www.parlezvous.org/playground-to-paris-registration)

AND it gets better! Enter this week’s giveaway for your chance to win a FREE spot at the workshop for YOU AND A FRIEND!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

(Spots are limited. Register now to be sure you have a spot. If you are selected as the winner, your registration will be fully refunded)

For questions or to learn more about Parlez-Vous Photography (@parlezvousphotography on FB and Instagram), visit, www.parlezvous.org or email photography@parlezvous.org

Remember- by entering you agree to our Giveaway Rules!! 

Theaterpalooza

We're super excited to share Theaterpalooza with you- especially since one of my kids is going to be participating in their winter show!! Sign ups are still available and since it's a developmental program, there's no audition experience necessary!  Theaterpalooza Is Coming to Manassas

Manassas, Virginia - July 20, 2015 - Theaterpalooza is excited to be moving in to the Manassas neighborhood this fall, 2015.  Starting Tuesday, September 8, classes in acting, singing, dance and productions will begin at The Ben Lomond Community Center 10501 Copeland Dr, Manassas, VA 20109. Our first production is the musical, The Snow Queen.  If you like Frozen, you'll love The Snow Queen, the classic fairy tale in which Frozen is based. About Theaterpalooza Theaterpalooza is an arts education organization for children of all ages which seeks to elevate arts education in the form of classes, workshops, productions, theatre in the schools and tours. Since 1997, Theaterpalooza has been offering classes, workshops and productions from New York to Florida. Theaterpalooza has performed twice at Carnegie Hall; the first being "From Sea To Shining Sea" March of 2014 and the second performance in 2015, the debut of the children's opera "Billy Bewitched".  Theaterpalooza has been invited to perform at Carnegie Hall for a third time on February 12, 2016. Theaterpalooza's performing troupe, Broadway Bound has recorded cd's, and performed all over the east coast from New York to Walt Disney World in Florida. Theaterpalooza seeks to instill a love of the arts in every life we touch and takes pride in creating the dreamers and doers of tomorrow!

February Kids Reader Meetup!!

Our friends at Showcase Dance Studio will be hosting this month's reader meetup for kids!!

Join PwcMoms and Showcase Dance Studio for a cool dance party inspired by the movie Frozen.  You son/daughter will have an Arctic Blast dancing to their favorite songs! Do you want to build a snowman? No problem- we'll be doing an arts and crafts project, too! Channel your inner Prince or Princess and Let it Go at Showcase Dance Studio!!

Ages 3-6 will enjoy dance, crafts, games, and a goody bag to take home.  Children can come dressed as their favorite character as long as their outfit allows them to move freely.


When: Feb 28 1:00pm-2:30pm
Where: Showcase Dance Studio
             Bull Run Plaza
             11750 Sudley Manor Dr
             Manassas, VA 20109
Contact Info: 703-368-0555
                      showcasedancestudioinfo@gmail.com
                      www.showcasedancestudio.net

Want to go? Enter using the Rafflecopter below!! I'll start handing out spots on Wednesday, so enter early, enter often!!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Guest Post: BumbleABC

Thanks to Katrina for sharing about BumbleABC with us! If you'd like to guest post, just shoot me an email! 

BumbleABC is a wonderful little place inside of Engineering for Kids located in Lake Ridge, Virginia. Bumble ABC offers workshops, classes, and programs for infants – 6 year olds. They also offer field trips and birthday parties.

BumbleABC was founded and created by two local moms,  Lisa Dillard and Dori Roberts. How cool is that?!

We went and checked out their Open Play for the first time the other day. I’m not sure what I was expecting going in, I mean I knew it would be good, but this place is so awesome. My kids are still talking about it days later!

When you first walk into the building there is a waiting area and a customer service desk! Off to the side is a little spot for coffee, tea, and water.

So once you get your kiddos name tags and get all squared away with the awesome people at the desk, you can go into the play area.

OHHHHhhhhh the play area! There are HUGE foam blocks for building, a Lego wall, an area with magnaforms, potato heads, etc., a wind tunnel, a car track, a room for infants (a ROOM for INFANTS y’all!), and oh so much more.

The kids had so much fun. They painted, they ran, they jumped, they used their little noggins, and got all that built up energy out!

The things that stuck out to me the most were how KIND and ACCEPTING the employees were of all the children, and the layout. I love that I can see my children pretty much wherever they went.

Quote from the 2 year old “I loved crawling through the tunnel!”

You can check out there upcoming Open Plays ( and other programs) HERE. (Link for that is http://bumbleabc.com/registration/)

Hope you enjoy them as much as we did!

 ___________________________________________________________ 

Katrina is a Stay At Home Mom to three, one girl and two boys, and wife to her high school sweetheart. She is passionate about her faith, family, natural living, the outdoors, and all things creative. If you liked this post you can find more at Sunflowers On The Hill, where she blogs about life as a SAHM, her faith, and as well as everything in between. You can also follow her on Facebook and Pinterest.

Upcoming at BumbleABC Lake Ridge

Bumble Science - Fascinated about Flight
Mondays- January 5th, 12th, 19th, & 26th
5:00 PM - 5:45 PM
Ages 3-6
In this four week class, little scientists learn about various methods and means of flight by using the scientific method to experiment with a wind tunnel, a straw rocket launcher, balloons, pinwheels, helicopters, airplanes and more!

Bumble Music - Circles, Spots & Dots
Mondays- January 5th, 12th, 19th, & 26th
6:15 PM - 7:00 PM
Ages 3-6
In this four week class, little bugs enhance hand-eye coordination, rhythm skills, music awareness and gross motor skills as they learn about circle shapes through fun, interactive music and movement games, they are engaged by parachute-play and they play instruments while moving, rocking, marching, tapping, clapping, singing, and dancing to the beat!

Bumble Art - Build-a-Bug
Wednesdays- January 7th, 14th, 21st, & 28th
5:00 PM - 5:45 PM
Ages 3-6
In this four week class, little artists pretend to be construction workers and enhance fine motor skills and creativity by using various building methods such as cutting, painting, gluing and more to construct a different bug each week!

Bumble Sports - Taking Aim
Wednesdays- January 7th, 14th, 21st, & 28th
6:15 PM - 7:00 PM
Ages 3-6
In this four week class, little athletes explore team-building concepts, enhance fine and gross motor skills, and practice hand-eye coordination by engaging in fun, interactive games and activities centered on basketball, golf, bowling and ping pong!

Open Play Workshops in Lake Ridge
Mondays and Wednesdays
10:00 AM - 12:00 PM
Infants to age 6
This open discovery workshop encourages creativity and cognitive development as children advance in association and problem-solving abilities, while constructing with various large building blocks and other materials. Friendships and social skills will also form as children work and grow together!

Readers Recommend: Gymnastics in Prince William County

We recently had a momma looking for gymnastics and Prince William County, and, as always, you all had plenty to say on the subject!!  If you'd like to add your thoughts, please leave a comment on the bottom of this post!! Love to hear from you! 

Apollo Gymnastics x12- "Apollo Gymnastics right off of Hoadly and PWPkwy." "APOLLO especially if they are serious and want to compete." "3 of our 4 have gone to Apollo and we have really liked it a lot.  My one daughter had a teacher one session we did not like, but other than her the experience has been great." "My son does gymnastics at Apollo.  He has had great coaches." "Apollo is great, but there are some instructors who work better with different kids.  The parent area is great to watch and ask around about instructors (and can be visited before you sign up to research)." "I am a former gymnastics coach and currently a personal trainer.  I highly recommend Apollo.  My daughters love it and have improved by leaps and bounds.  It is expensive, but one of the best around here." "Very well run"

Apollo is located at 12700 Apollo Drive, Woodbridge and offers classes for ages 18 months and up, and birthday parties for ages 4-12. Their phone number is 703-580-9144.  45 minute classes are $80/month at the time of publishing. 

Dale City Rec Center- "My daughter does tumbling at the dale city rec center and loves it! All the 

instructors are great!"

The Dale City Rec Center is located at 14300 Minnieville Road, Dale City, and offers classes through the Prince William County Park Authority.  They offer tumbling for ages 1.5-4 years.  703-670-7112. Classes range from $42-$68 for a 6 class session.

Freedom Center-  If you're just looking for a quick intro class to see if your preschooler/toddler likes it at all, Sally at the Freedom Center funds a great class and the sessions are short and inexpensive"

The Freedom Center is located at 9100 Freedom Center Drive in Manassas, and offers classes through their recreation department.  They offer classes for children ages 3.5-12 years old, and classes appear to be $10 per class in 4 or 5 week sessions at the time of publishing. 703-993-8444.

GMS x4- "GMS in Manassas off Balls Ford.  They have beginner and rec classes and stuff for girls that want to compete in a team.  Great all around gym." "GMS by 66 in Manassas great for competitive and has brand new facility for rec classes." "GMS is the best around!! They have been around for years and years and the owners are amazing. You can't find anything better for sure."

GMS is located at 7226 Newmarket Court, Manassas and offers classes for ages almost 3 and up.  1 class/week is priced at $150 a month at the time of publishing.  703-369-7800.

Novaks x6- "Off stage coach rd Dumfries" "We've done Youth Sports and Novak...like both" "Novaks is great" "Affordable, with a world championship to back them up."

Novaks is located at 17535 Old Stagecoach Road, Dumfries.  They offer open gym, play gym, classes, competition team, birthday parties and camps for ages 5 and up, with a special play gym for ages 5 and under.  Class prices are not listed. 703-221-5833

World Gymnastics- "I love coach Isben at World Gymnastics.  I can't vouch for any others.  He has figured out how to work with five kids on the autistic spectrum and it is better than any OT."

At the time of publication, their site was down.  

Youth Sports Gymnastics x 11- "Love youth sports gymnastics near BJs in Wdbg!" "We checked out quite a few and really liked Youth Sports....the coaches there are really great." "I've heard great things about Youth Sports, we did not have a good experience with our children at Apollo." "We've done Youth Sports and Novak...like both" "Great for girls and boys." "Most have a free trial class; however, Apollo does not.  I did not want to sign up for a class without trying it first.  We have been at novaks, world, and youth sports.  Most impressed with youth sports. It is clean and does not smell like feet!" "My daughter goes to Youth Sports.  She loves it." "My son has been at Youth Sports for 6 years.  Clearly we love it there."

Youth Sports is located at 14023 Noblewood Plaza, Woodbridge.  They offer classes in tumbling, cheer, rhythmic gymnastics, jumprope and regular gymnastics starting with parent/tot.  Sessions are 5 weeks, prices aren't listed online.  They also offer birthday parties, camps, and special events. 703-590-8400

Distance recommendation- 

Dulles Gymnastics Academy- "Dulles gymnastics academy is great.  For under 5yo, $8, 11-12pm on Fridays.  It's great because your kid can try everything out and they have two instructors present." 

Recap: Open Exploration at The Animated Child

When I was first able to actually sit down with Alejandra Hall, owner of The Animated Child, and chat face to face for the first time, I was so impressed with her vision.  I'd read the website and tried to understand everything that was going on over there- a preschoool, indoor play area with drop-in hours, language classes, art classes, social skills coaching (they're an inclusive center), memberships with special members-only benefits, parents night out, annnnd....I think I'm skipping something, too.

Minecraft- they have Minecraft camps and classes- how could I forget that? My boys have talked about NOTHING but doing Minecraft camp since we walked in the doors. 

They've got a TON of things going on over there, and understanding it just by reading the website is almost impossible, you really do have to drop in.

That's why I was so excited that The Animated Child invited us to bring a few readers over for a free open-exploration so they could experience it for themselves.  It was a great way to spend New Years Eve Day!

 Our target age was K-3, and I would say that Open Exploration is best aimed at ages 2-7. That being said, my 10 year old had fun when we came with just out family, but I think preschool-grade 2 would have the most fun. 

 My daughter had a blast at the tangram wall.  It's completely magnetic, and there are tons of patterns.  I think these two built a rocketship and a centipede before moving on to something else!

 The space that you play in for Open Exploration is divided into sections based on Gardner's Theory of Multiple Intelligences (I told you that they impressed me with their planning!!).  There's are areas for playing with animals (guniea pig, lizard, and multiple fish tanks), a touch table, a train table, all sorts of building materials, body puzzles, a dress-up/pretend play area, and water bead station.  The space is open and inviting, and everyone (parents, too!) wears socks and uses hand sanitizer before playing to keep it clean!

 While the kids were playing, Mrs. Alexy took the time to let parents find their child's top intelligence and gifted everyone a shirt with "Music Smart", "Body Smart", "Math Smart", whatever their top match was. 

I think everyone left happy, and had a great time playing.  We had a few kids that did NOT want to leave!  I love that Open Exploration is engaging, quiet, and less rowdy than inflatable places (aka Bounce Houses), which I love, too, but with very small children who get hurt easily, or a child who can't bounce for whatever reason, there are few fun indoor options for cold/rainy/winter days, and I'm really glad that we've got one in Montclair!

To learn more about The Animated Child, visit their website, or better yet, visit them in person.  Open Exploration times are listed on their website, but are currently:
Open Exploration Scheduled Times:
 (Monday-Friday)
9:00am-10:30am                 
11:00am-12:30pm
3:00pm-4:30pm
5:00pm-6:30pm
Open Exploration Scheduled Times: (Saturday)
10:00am-11:30am
11:30am-1:00pm      

You can also find Open Explorations listed on our calendar.    Open Explorations are $9 for non-members.  Thanks again to everyone who came out to play with us!!
_______________________________________________
Disclosure: The Animated Child is one of our advertisers, but all opinions are our own.  You can find out more about advertising with PwcMoms, or about hosting an event for our readers at your venue under the "advertise" tab, or by emailing us. 

One Day Fall PWC Parks and Recreation 2013

Here are some fun, one-day classes for the Fall Season through Prince William County Parks and Recreation.  I've included the registration information at the bottom.  For those of you who may be new, SBDCRC is the acronym for the WAY too long of a name Dale City Rec.  These are also on the calendar, but sign up now so you're sure to get a spot! 

Let’s Read (Ages 3-5) Code 310401

Have you ever wondered what happens if you give a mouse a muffin? Join us as we read and explore through activities based on Laura Numeroff's books.  $15, register in advance.  SBDCRC- September 19^th at 9:45am

Let’s Paint (Ages 3-5) Code 310121

Let your child’s inner Picasso come out as they paint using a variety of tools to create several of their very own masterpieces. $15, register in advance. SBDCRC September 26^th at 9:45am

Let’s Celebrate Fall (Ages 3-5) Code 310401

We will explore this change of seasons through a variety of books and special projects.  $15, register in advance.  SBDCRC October 10^th 9:45am *Note: Let’s Celebrate Fall and Dr. Suess have the same ID Code in the magazine, so confirm you are registered for the correct class when calling.

Dr. Suess (Ages 3-5) Code 310401

Let your imagination run wild with Dr. Suess. Join us as we read several of his books and explore them through various projects and activities. $15 SBDCRC November 7^th at 9:45am *Note: Let’s Celebrate Fall and Dr. Suess have the same ID Code in the magazine, so confirm you are registered for the correct class when calling.

Look What I Made! (Ages 3-5) Code 310121

Class participants will be able to make their own playdough and ooblek. $15, register in advance, November 21 9:45am

Wonders of the Holidays (Ages 3-5) Code 310191

Tis the season…We will celebrate the season through reading books that explore the magic of the holidays.  $15 SBDCRC December 5^th, 9:45am *Wonders of the Holidays, Ornaments and Decorations, and Parents Shop/Kids Drop all have the same activity code, please be sure you are registered for the correct class.

Ornaments and Decorations (Ages 3-5) Code 310191

We will create holiday decorations and ornaments that you will be able to treasure for years to come.  $15 SBDCRC December 12^th at 9:45am *Wonders of the Holidays, Ornaments and Decorations, and Parents Shop/Kids Drop all have the same activity code, please be sure you are registered for the correct class.

Parents Shop/Kids Drop (Ages 3-12) Code 310191

Parents rest assured as you are finisheing your holiday shopping your children are having fun in an exciting and safe environment.  Activigties fro children will include games, movies, andcraft projects.  Pizza and drinks provided.  Pre-registration required by Dec 6.  $20/4 hours, CAFC December 14^th 6pm-10pm

Girls Lock In and Sleepover (3^rd-5^th Graders) Code 310204

Join us for a night full of fun.  Snacks and Breakfast will be provided.  Come dressed in your favorite PJs and fuzzy slippers.  Pre-registration required by November 1.  For girls only in 3^rd, 4^th, or 5^th grade.  $30, CAFC November 16^th 7pm-7am

Glow in the Dark Yoga (Ages 13+)

Everyone wear white and register ahead!! Monday October 21 7:30-9pm, Tuesday October 29 7-8pm, Thursday October 31 7-8pm Free for passholders, $10 drop in

FREE Pilates Studio Open House (Ages 13+) Code 318305

Join us in this free pilates orientation on the equipment and expose yourself to a new formula of keeping your body in ultimate shape and balance.  Pre-registration is required.  SBDCRC October 2^nd 11a-1pm or 7pm-8pm

Wednesdays in the Park (Preschool) Code 309100

Bring your pre-schooler out for an adventure in the park.  You may register for one or all of the programs.  Parent participation is encouraged but not required.  $10 Lake Ridge Park Theme:

9/18-  Fishing/Waterfront

9/25- Soccer/Mini Golf

10/2- Trails

Baby Sitter Training (13-15) Code 311011

The American Red Cross helps to develop skills in six critical areas: leadership, safety, safe play, basic care, first aid, and professionalism.  Offered multiple dates.  1 8-hour class, $75

September 21

October 19

November 16

Scouting Programs- These aren’t on the calendar because I’m too lazy.  I’m sorry.  Please don’t hate me.

To register for classes, you can go to pwcparks.org, register in person at any registration site (listed below) print and mail a registration form and payment, or register by phone with a credit card.  They take Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover. 

Registration Offices Are:

Ben Lomond Community Center

10501 Copeland Drive Manassas VA

703-361-7126

Hours: M-F 9am-8pm, Sa 9am-12pm, Su Closed

Hellwig Administrative Office

14420 Bristow Road Manassas VA

703-792-7060

Hours: M-F 8:30am-5pm, Sa/Su Closed

Chinn Aquatics and Fitness Center

13025 Chinn Park Drive Woodbridge VA

703-730-1051

Hours: M-Th 5am-9pm, F 5am-8pm, Sa 7am-5pm, Su 8am-5pm

Sharron Baucom Dale City Recreation Center

14300 Minnieville Road Woodbridge VA

703-670-7112

Hours: M-F 6am-9pm, Sa 8am-8pm, Su 8am-6pm

Veterans Memorial Park

14300 Featherstone Road Woodbridge VA

703-491-2183

Hours: M-F 9am-6pm, Sa 9am-1pm, Su Closed

Fall Co-Curricular and Extra Curricular Activities

Back to School also means back to activities!! If you're looking for the perfect activity for your child, here are a few suggestions:

I- Co-Curricular Activities (activities that compliment learning and the SOLs, if you're into that sort of thing)

Engineering for Kids offers classes in Woodbridge at the Chinn Center and will also come to your school or location (think scouts or homeschool) if you'd like to start your own Robotics club.  We worked with them on a Robotics Workshop and it was amazing. Classes are offered for ages 4 to 14, so even preschoolers can enjoy this program!






Edgemoor Art Studio is still one of my favorite favorites because of director, Ruth Johnsen, who is just amazing with children.  Ruth offers art and phonics classes, starting at age 2 with "My Grown Up and Me" and going through age 16.  Phonics classes start at age 4 and classes are small, but Ruth also offers private tutoring for older students.  Art classes start at 2 and are fun, engaging, and use artist-quality materials.  Edgemoor won the Seefeldt Award for Art Excellence this year, as well.  The studio is located in Lake Ridge. These are not "crafty" classes, they're actual art lessons.

Scouting/things-similar-to-Scouting-that-don't-use-that-word-because-it's-trademarked (hereafter "scouting") can be a really fun activity if you find the right pack/den/troop for your family's level of activity.  Our readers recommended:
Daisies at Yorkshire Elementary 4067
Daisies at Leesylvania Elementary Troop 866
Brownie Troop 1789 at Leesylvania Elementary
American Heritage Girls Troop 1947
American Heritage Girls Troop 0428 (All Saints)
American Heritage Girls Troop 1010 (First Baptist)

Baden-Powell Service Organization (2 out of Woodbridge)
Boy Scouts of America Pack 1364 (Pattie Elementary, Montclair)

Animated Child in Montclair offers both an all-day program, Minecraft nights out, Spanish Language instruction, art classes, and other opportunities throughout the year.  In addition, they offer parents night out and parents day out programs, so if the year gets to be a little much for you and you need a glass of wine with grownups....they've got you covered.

We've never used Drama Kids, but readers mentioned it! They offer classes at the Freedom Center in Manassas, as well as the Southlake Rec Center in Montclair.

All Sports, Various Activities- Check out the newest Leisure Magazine from the county! Typically their programs are great introductions AND they are affordable. 


Live in Manassas? You'll want to check out the listings for Manassas Park Community Center, too! You'll find the Freedom Center listings in Leisure Magazine (above) 




II.  Music Lessons (because that piano isn't just to hold your Precious Moments collection! These are in the order they were received, not alphabetical)
Jessica's music studio, manassas 703-368-3434. My 4 year old has been taking lessons for 4 months. She sees Josh and she already knows a tons. He's great with her. Heard that all the teachers there are great. Lessons run around $120/month for a 30 minute lesson once a week ( for the month).

Mary Beth Nolan, Montclair, $25 for 30 min lesson. Beginner through intermediate. 703-583-8680.

Music and Arts, Potomac Festival Mall, Miss B. $30 for 30 minutes/once a week. She is fantastic! My daughter has been with her for over a year now and plays beautifully!

I'm a piano teacher in the Woodbridge area. I have an undergrad degree in performance and a masters in music Ed. I charge $25 for half hour weekly lessons and I have 2 recitals every year and participate in piano festival for those interested. You can message me on here or through my email lessonsbystef@gmail.com (Stephanie Houde)

Kathleen at KLR Studios. Love her!! http://www.klrstudios.com/

We love Emily Condie Baird! $23 for 40 minute lessons in the Lake Ridge Area. 703-338-7359

Hello! I'm Dr. Becky Crowley, and I teach piano (and flute) in Woodbridge. While my studio is pretty full, I occasionally have some openings. I'd be happy to answer any questions your reader might have. She can contact me at Crowley.Becky@gmail.com, and she can also view my website at beckycrowley.com. Thanks!

III- Sports (activities that get some of that energy out and keep your kids fit and happy, hopefully you're into that sort of thing) 
Readers Recommend:
Baseball/T-Ball/Softball:
Dale City Rec Center (Eastern PWC)
GHBL (Western PWC), t-ball starting at age 4 and baseball starting at age 6
Greater Manassas Baseball League (includes softball)
PWGFS Softball

Basketball:
Boys and Girls Club (Multiple Locations)
EPWBA x3 (Eastern PWC)
Upward Basketball (Multiple Locations)
Prospects Sports (Eastern PWC) ages 5 and up

Dance:
We have a WHOLE separate post on that one! Click here.

Football/Cheer:
Dale City Sports Clubs x3 (Eastern PWC) ages 5-12, tackle football and Cheerleading
Game Time Sportz x3 (Eastern PWC) Flag football in Lake Ridge
Youth Sports gymnastics/tumble/cheerleading

Gymnastics:
Apollo 
Youth Sports

Ice Sports:
Prince William Hockey Club (Our money and our kids skate with PWHC)

Other Sports:
-Parkour at Urban Evolution
-Rock Climbing at Vertical Rock

Soccer:
VSA (Western PWC)
PWSI x3 (Our kids played PWSI and I loved it, our daughter is returning)
NVSC x3 one parent noted Hellwig Field is cleaner than the field by Splashdown
WBSC (Woodbridge)

Softball:
GMBL x2 (Western PWC)
PWGFS registration ends on August 3rd

Swimming:
Swim Kids (Various locations)  All three of my kids swam with Swim Kids for a time, and it's well done

All Sports, Various Activities- Check out the newest Leisure Magazine from the county! Typically their programs are great introductions AND they are affordable.