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Archive for March, 2010

Weekend Events

Wednesday, March 31st, 2010

E’toile jpegA fab weekend of events in New York. Jazz, opera, Shakespeare. Hey, living in the city, you put up with less-than sprawling living quarters, astronomical school tuition and construction on every other block for a reason - so you can have access to stuff like this …

Go
L’Etoile
New York City Opera Family Matinee
Introduce Junior to Chabrier’s hilarious L’Etoile opera about mistaken identities and a madcap king whose fate is linked to an unlucky peddler. This special one-hour version is sung in French with English dialogue and supertitles. City Opera GM and Artistic Director George Steel will host a musical introduction from 1:30-2:15pm with the New York City Opera Orchestra and select singers. That will be followed by the performance. A free pre-show concert at noon (for ticket holders) features the New York City Opera Children’s Chorus & InterSchool Orchestras of New York.
When: Sat. 4/3 at 1:30pm. Tickets start at $6 and are available at nycopera.com or by calling 212-721-6500.
Where: David H. Koch Theater at Lincoln Ctr. at 63rd St. & Columbus Ave.

Do
Roving Hamlet
Catch New York Classical Theatre’s production of Hamlet in the World Financial Center. This production takes audience members throughout the 3.5-acre complex, as they follow the actors down staircases and around mezzanines. Perfect for antsy tots. Viewers are invited to bring cushions to sit on.
When: Thur. 4/1- Sat.4/3 (plus Tue. 4/6 - Sun. 4/11 and Tue. 4/13 - Sun. 4/18), 7-9pm. Free.
Where: World Financial Ctr., 220 Vesey St. Audience convenes at the Starbucks in the World Financial Ctr. Courtyard.

Hear
Best of the JAZZ Arts
Children’s Museum of Manhattan
This weekend, CMOM is hosting a reading by author/illustrator Gregory Christie of his book Jazz Baby (with musical accompaniment) and a performance by Jazz at Lincoln Center’s WeBop. Dancing encouraged. Older kids can design a CD cover with Christie, who has created artwork for a number of jazz CDs.
When: Fri. 4/2 @ 2pm - Jazzy reading (all ages)
Fri. 4/2 @ 4pm - Jazz CD cover designing (5 and older)
Sat. 4/3 @ 3 & 4pm - WeBop performances (all ages)
Free with paid admission. Sign up one hour before program at the Visitors Desk.
Where: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, The Tisch Bldg., 212 W. 83rd St., 212-721-1223.

See
Pysanka: The Ukranian Easter Egg
More than 200 pysanky are on display at The Ukrainian Museum. Ukrainians today still adhere to the ancient traditions associated with the egg; it represents a source of life, the sun and the universe. The pysanka was considered to be a talisman. Contemporary artists continue to use the ancient symbols and traditional colors on these beautiful folk art objects.
When: Sat. 4/3, 11:30am-5pm. (Runs through 11/28. Closed on Easter. Museum is usually open Wed.-Sun.)
Where: The Ukrainian Museum, 222 E. Sixth Ave. (bet. 2nd and 3rd Aves.), 212-228-0110

Hunt
Clifford’s Annual Easter Egg Hunt
Clifford hosts his annual hunt at The Scholastic Store. Kids can search for eggs, enjoy an Easter-themed story and meet the big red dog.
When: Sat. 4/3, 11am-4pm (all ages). Free.
Where: The Scholastic Store, 557 B’way (bet. Prince and Spring Sts.). Stroller entrance at 130 Mercer.

and

Annual Brooklyn Heights Spring Egg Hunt
Candy, treats, balloons, and, of course, an egg hunt are all part of the day’s festivities.
When: Sat. 4/3 @ 10am. Free.
Where: Columbia Heights and Pierrepont Sts.(on the Brooklyn Heights Promenade). bhplaygrounds.org.

Cook
Easter & Passover Holiday Brunch
Cupcake Kids!
Whip up homemade muffins and matza, and leave with a goodie-filled Easter basket. Kids ages 2-4 should be accompanied by a caregiver. Drop-off for older kids (ages 4-8). Cupcake Kids was founded by former Wall Street wunderkind Jessi Walter after she lost her Bear Stearns job as a result of the J.P. Morgan merger.
When: Sat. 4/3; $60 per child. Call 646-789-5554 or visit cupcakekids.com to sign up. Session for 2-4-year-olds: 10-11am. Session for 4-8-year-olds (drop-off:10-11:15am)
Where: Cupcake Kids! 24 E. 12th St. (bet. Fifth Ave. and Univ. Place)

Happy Passover! Happy Easter!

Photo credit: Carol Rosegg

School Daze

Tuesday, March 30th, 2010

Just as this admissions season is winding down, it’s time to gear up for next year. Spring is the prime time to research nursery and ongoing schools, learn about deadlines, and figure out how many schools to apply to, when and how to request applications, etc. The following can help you get an education on the lay of the land in admissions world:

Big City Moms’ “NYC Nursery School Seminar” - The panel includes Wendy Levey, Director of The Epiphany Community Nursery School; Gabriella Rowe, Head of School at the Mandell School; and Roxanna Reid of Smart City Kids, a school consultancy. $30 in advance, $40 at the door. Register at bigcitymoms.com. Thur. 4/8, 7-9pm, Kidville, 163 E. 84th St. bet. 3rd and Lex. Aves.

The JCC’s “Getting Your Child into Kindergarten” - Features Jean Schreiber, MS Ed., an early childhood consultant, who will cover timelines, testing and the processes for applying to public and private kindergartens in New York City. $20/member and $25/non-member. Mon., 4/12, 7pm, The JCC in Manhattan, 334 Amsterdam Ave. at 76th St. Call 646-505-5708 for registration or visit jccmanhattan.org.

New York Family’s “All-Star Nursery School Admissions Seminar” - A “soup-to-nuts” presentation on the preschool process from a panel featuring Erica Papir of The Caedmon School, Wendey Levey of the Epiphany Community Nursery School, Gabriella Rowe of Mandell School, Roxanna Reid from Smart City Kids and Dana Haddad, an admissions consultant who also works with the World Class Learning Academy of New York. $35/single ticket ($45 at the door), $60/couple (in advance). Register at newyorkfamily.com. Wed. 4/7, 6-8pm, The Sports Club/LA, 330 E. 61st bet. 1st and 2nd Aves.

The Parents League Workshops & Panels - The Parents League is an invaluable resource for parents. Spend the $200 ($300 for three years) to join the Parents League and have access to their advisers, workshops and seminars. The Parents League, affiliated with 300 schools, including preschools, is a not-for-profit organization. Check parentsleague.org for details on their 90-minute preschool workshops hosted throughout the spring. Also, there’s a Kindergarten Admissions Panel Discussion with admissions directors from member schools on Mon. 4/19, 7-8:30pm, at The Dalton School, 108 E. 89th St. Become a member and register for event at parentsleague.org.

School Search NYC Workshops - School Search NYC founder Robin Aronow is one of the city’s admissions gurus. She offers advisory services and workshops and is always up-to-date on both the private and public school admissions processes. 5/12, 6:15-8:30pm, Life after Nursery School: Private School Admission Process. 5/26, 6:15-8:30pm, Life after Nursery School: Public School Admission Process. $65 for one workshop, $100 for both. Includes $15 info. packet. Both workshops are at Ansche Chesed, 251 W. 100th St. bet. WEA and Riverside Dr. Register available soon at schoolsearchnyc.com. 212-316-0186.

Weekend Events

Thursday, March 25th, 2010

sippy cupsThis weekend in NYC, rock bands for your brood to enjoy (before they become enamored with Lady Gaga), gargantuan bubbles from a guy who has served as a consultant to Cirque du Soleil, an Easter egg hunt and the chance to meet Dora and Kai-Lan live on TV.

Hear
The Sippy Cups
This San Fran band hits Symphony Space on the UWS this weekend. The lyrics are kid-oriented, but the music has that magical cross-generational appeal, meaning it actually sounds like stuff that could be on your iPod. Puppets, giant balloons comic stunts and confetti are just some of the bells and whistles incorporated into their shows.
When: Sat. 3/27 at 11am; tickets are $25 per adult, $15 per kid in advance, and an additional $2 at the door. Tickets available at symphonyspace.org.
Where: Symphony Space, 2537 B’way at 95th St. 212-864-5000.

and

Rocknoceros
Rock out to this popular trio from the D.C. area. Coach Cotton, Williebob and Boogie Woogie Bennie go music genre hopping from Tin Pan Alley to the shores of Jamaica. Check out one of their videos at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J3NthbJP8_8.
When: Sun. 3/28 at 11am; tickets available at 92y.org. $15 per ticket. Kids under two are free.
Where: 92YTribeca Mainstage, 92YTribeca, 200 Hudson St.

Experience
BubbleMania: Science, Art & Comedy
New York Hall of Science
Bubbles are the go-to crowd-pleaser for the sandbox set. See master soap bubble manipulator Casey Carle create six-foot-high spheres and dancing bubbles. One lucky audience member will even get to experience what’s it’s like to be encased in one of Carle’s ginormous masterpieces.
When: Sat. 3/27 - Sun. 4/4. Daily shows at 1, 2 & 3pm. Tickets are $4 in addition to the price of admission. Limited availability. Buy tickets early upon arrival at the museum.
Where: New York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th St., Queens. 718-699-0005. nsci.org.

Go
Laura Numeroff Book Rdg.
The If You Give a Mouse a Cookie author hosts a special storytime on the first day of the Macy’s Flower Show. Costumed characters will also be on hand.
When: Sun. 3/28 at 3pm. Free.
Where: Kids on 7, Macy’s, B’way & 34th St.

Easter Egg Hunt & Moey’s Music Party Concert
Kids can rev up for the big Easter egg hunt by decorating a bag for their stash. Then NYC mama rocker Moey will entertain the troops.
When: Sat. 3/27. Bag decorating at 11am, Easter Egg Hunt at 11:30am, Concert at noon. Free.
Where: Carl Schurz Park, 84th St. and East End Ave.

Step into the Spotlight
Nickelodeon’s Storytime Live Appearance
The Early Show on CBS
Dora the Explorer and Kai-Lan will be stopping by the The Early Show on Mon. 3/29 to promote Nickelodeon’s Storytime Live! (at Radio City Music Hall in NYC). You should arrive by 7:15am at The Early Show plaza, which is on the corner of 59th St. and Fifth Ave. (home to FAO and the Apple Store).
When: Mon. 3/29, 7:15am arrival time. The segment will air between 8 and 8:30am.
Where: SE corner of 59th and Fifth.
*CBS is UrbanBaby’s parent company.

Clock Watchers

Tuesday, March 23rd, 2010

Circa logoThe circus is supposed to be one of those quintessential childhood delights. But let’s face it, the music can be cloying, the clowns annoying and the air just a tad scent-challenged thanks to the live animals.

So opt for Circa’s “46 Circus Acts in 45 Minutes.” This Aussie troupe is more Cirque du Soleil and won’t leave you feeling circus dismay. A digital clock flashes onstage as the cheeky performers combine skillful acrobatics with the artistry of contemporary dance and a great soundtrack - think club music and fun retro songs (a jazzed-up version of “Eye of the Tiger!”). As the show’s title suggests, it consists of 46 mini circus acts. A guy slides across the stage on his head. A woman wows with her aerial fabric dancing. The four stars strike yoga/modern dance poses that seem to require superhuman strength. Other sure-to-please numbers: a rap song with the elements of the periodic table and Bubble Wrap tap dancing. (Hey, we did just celebrate the 50th anniversary of Bubble Wrap.) This compact treat is oozing cross-generational appeal.

And there’s nary an animal in sight, unless you count an inflatable shark and pig. Don’t ask.

“46 Circus Acts in 45 Minutes” at The New Victory Theater, 209 W. 42nd St. (bet. Seventh and Eighth Aves.). (The show is actually 60 minutes.) For tickets, visit newvictory.org or call 646-223-3010. Runs through 4/4.

Weekend Events

Thursday, March 18th, 2010

46 circus acts in 45 minutesThis weekend, a mod circus, free museum days and a bonus, encore screening at the New York International Children’s Film Festival.

See
46 Circus Acts in 45 Minutes
The New Victory Theater
From Brisbane, Australia comes Circa, a “new circus” troupe that melds the circus as we know it (sans the animals) with contemporary dance, theater and a mix of new technologies. This 60-minute cheeky show (yeah, yeah the title says it’s 45 minutes) features four athletic artists flying high and performing acrobatics and fantastic free-falls.
When: Runs March 19th - April 4th. Check newvictory.org for showtimes and to purchase tickets. Tickets for non-members run $12.50 - $35.00. Tickets also available at (646) 223-3010.
Where: The New Victory Theater, 209 W. 42nd St., bet. Seventh and Eighth Aves.

Watch
Shorts for Tots
New York International Children’s Film Festival
Tickets for screenings at the NYICFF sell out fast, but another screening of Shorts for Tots has been added. The 65-minute screening features the best of short films and animation from around the globe, including the UK, Sweden, Japan and the U.S. Attendees will receive voting ballots to select the NYICFF 2010 winning films!
When: Sun. 3/21, 12:30pm. To purchase tickets, $10 per person, visit gkids.tv. (Ages 3-6)
Where: Scholastic Theater, 557 B’way, bet. Prince and Spring Sts.

Go
Super Sabado
El Museo del Barrio
As part of its Target Free Third Saturdays program, the museum is hosting a day of family activities, including storytelling, tortilla making and tours through the exhibit Voces y Visiones: Four Decades through El Museo del Barrio’s Permanent Collection.
When: Sat. 3/20, 11am-8:30pm. Check elmuseo.org for event times.
Where: El Museo del Barrio, 1230 Fifth Ave. @ 104th St.

Do
Free CMOM Admission Day
Check out the Children’s Museum of Manhattan’s day of free events, sponsored by Ser Padres magazine. Activities include yoga classes (10am-5pm, 5 and older), a bilingual sing-along with Louie Miranda (10:30-11am), dancing with Baby Loves Salsa (1-2pm), stethoscope making (2-5pm, 5 and older), birthday hat making (10-11:15am & 1:30-3pm) plus a meet-and-greet (2-2:40pm) and dance jam session (3:30-3:40pm & 3:50-4pm) with the eco-friendly Big Green Rabbit.
When: Sat. 3/20, 10am-5pm. Free. Check event times above. (All ages)
Where: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, The Tisch Bldg., 212 W. 83rd St., 212-721-1223. cmom.org.

Pregnant Reality: Take Two

Tuesday, March 16th, 2010

Cool Rosie Pope diagramMultiples - sequels, prequels, spin-offs, trilogies, bridge lines - seem to have a certain cachet in both pop and high culture. It means you and your movie, book or design line continue to resonate and be relevant.

Well, this is take two for the casting call we first told you about in January. That call was for a reality show focusing on pregnant women who appreciate couture fashion and concierge services. The show features a well-known, high-end maternity designer helping subjects look and feel like “million dollar mommas.” The program has now been officially picked up by a major network, and producers need a few more big personalities to round out the cast. Think of the women/characters who dominate The Real Housewives franchises and the fab four of Sex and the City (The sequel’s due out in May, and the blogosphere is buzzing about which character will be the next to get pregnant.).

If you’re pregnant and due between May and July of 2010, this could be your chance in the spotlight. Be aware that, if chosen, during the course of taping, the show’s designer/expert extraordinaire will advise you on prenatal fitness and nutrition, as well as some of the more stressful aspects of raising an urban baby, including navigating the school scene.

HOW TO APPLY:

Producers are here March 25th through April 9th to meet candidates. Those interested should e-mail MaternityMomNYC@gmail.com IMMEDIATELY with the following info.:

1. Name, city and due date. (Must be in tri-state area.)

2. Why are couture maternity clothing and concierge services a must during your pregnancy?

3. What are your feelings about being pregnant? Excited? Nervous?

4. Are there any special circumstances regarding your pregnancy? Is this your first child? Was it hard to conceive? Are you expecting twins?

5. Tell us a little bit about yourself and your partner (if applicable). What makes you unique?

6. Phone number and e-mail address.

7. Please include a recent picture.

Weekend Events

Thursday, March 11th, 2010

Putumayo Jazz Playground albumThis weekend in NYC - how Curious George really saved the day, Sid the Science Kid and jazz, baby! Just remember to set your clocks ahead one hour on Sunday for Daylight Savings Time.

Hear
Putumayo Kids Jazz Playground Concert
A great antidote to cringe-inducing children’s music. The Putumayo Kids’ Jazz Playground Concert Tour hits NYC this weekend. The Jazz Playground album is the first jazz album for the family from Putumayo Kids, a children’s music label dedicated to introducing kids to music from around the world. This Saturday’s show at the Scholastic store features Oran Etkin performing a selection of international jazz songs. (The Israeli-born Etkin has earned high praise from The New York Times’ jazz critic Ben Ratliff.) True family entertainment.
When: Sat. 3/13 at 11am and 1pm. Free but reservations are required. Call 212-389-3800 to reserve spots. (All ages)
Where: The Scholastic Store’s auditorium, 557 B’way (bet. Prince and Spring Sts.). Stroller entrance at 130 Mercer St.)

See
“Curious George Saves the Day: The Art of Margret and H.A. Rey
The Jewish Museum
Illustrator H.A. Rey and his wife, Margret, an author and artist, brought Curious George to America 70 years ago. This exhibit chronicles the Reys’ incredible back story: their dramatic escape from the Nazis, their subsequent survival and the creation of the world’s most famous monkey. The Jewish Museum’s exhibition opening Sunday features nearly 80 original drawings and watercolors; many of the works are on display for the first time. The exhibition also includes an interactive, touch-screen timeline, preparatory dummy books, a reading room and H.A.’s journals detailing the Reys’ journey to freedom.
When: Opens Sun. 3/14; free with the price of admission.
Where: The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave. at 92nd St., 212-423-3200, thejewishmuseum.org.

Go
Sid the Science Kid Family Day
New York Hall of Science
Come meet Sid, the star of the PBS KIDS show. “Super fab lab investigations,” a meet-and-greet with Sid and special screenings of the show are all part of the day’s events.
When: Sat. 3/13 (and Sun. 3/21). Super fab lab investigations run from 10am-5pm. The meet-and-greet with Sid is from 10am-4pm, and the Sid screenings are at 11:30am, 2 and 3pm. Free with the price of admission. Tickets available at the museum and 48 hours in advance at nysci.org.
Where: New York Hall of Science, 47-01 111th St., Queens, 718-699-0005.

Do
New York Theatre Ballet’s Cinderella
Known for its family dance programs in an intimate setting, NYTB presents the beloved story of Cinders and her socially-challenged step-sisters.
When: Sat. 3/13 and Sun. 3/14, 11am, 1 and 3:30pm. Tickets can be purchased at ticketmaster.com. (Ages 3 and up)
Where: French Institute/Florence Gould Hall, 55 E. 59th St. (bet. Park and Mad. Aves.)

Check out
New York Family’s Camp Fairs
It’s not too late to learn about summer camp options. New York Family magazine is hosting more camp fairs this weekend. Directors from more than 40 camps - day camps and sleepaway camps - will be on hand. (Camps are for kids ages 3-13.)
When: Sat. 3/13, noon to 3pm, on the UES and Sun. 3/14, 2-5pm) on the UWS. Free.
Where: UES - Lycee Francais de New York, 505 E. 75th St. and York Ave.
UWS - Rodeph Sholom Middle School, 168 W. 79th St. (bet. Columbus and Amsterdam Aves.)

Remember: the clocks!

How Curious George Really Saved the Day

Tuesday, March 9th, 2010

Curious George illustration from The Jewish Museum ExhibitionLet’s take stock of what we know about Curious George: He’s a monkey of few (no) words. His inquisitiveness gets him into trouble. He’s friends with the man in the yellow hat who has no name. And millions of moms are incredibly thankful for the easy-on-the-eye Jack Johnson who sings the theme song in the movie. What you might not realize is that Curious George’s creators have their own incredible back story, and that’s the focus of a new exhibit opening this Sunday at The Jewish Museum.

“Curious George Saves the Day: The Art of Margret and H.A. Rey” chronicles the Reys’ dramatic escape from the Nazis, their subsequent survival and the creation of the world’s most famous monkey. Illustrator H.A. and his wife, Margret, an author and illustrator, were both born to Jewish families in Germany. They lived together Unpublished Curious Georgein Paris from 1936-1940 and fled on their bicycles with their drawings just hours before the Nazis entered the city. Turns out, those illustrations, including some of a curious monkey then named Fifi, were key to their survival. Perhaps that’s why a common theme of the Curious George stories is how George saves the day after a narrow escape. And George is often seen with his bicycle. The Reys arrived in New York after a four-month journey through Europe and Brazil.

The Jewish Museum’s upcoming exhibition features nearly 80 original drawings and watercolors; many of the works are on display for the first time. The exhibition also includes an interactive, touch-screen timeline, preparatory dummy books, a reading room and H.A.’s journals detailing their journey to freedom.

It would seem that the non-speaking Curious George has a lot to say.

“Curious George Saves the Day: The Art of Margret and H.A. Rey” begins Sun. 3/14 at The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave. at 92nd St., 212-423-3200. Check thejewishmsueum.org for museum hours.

Artwork credit:

H.A. Rey, final illustration for “This is George. He lived in Africa,” published in The Original Curious George (1998), France 1939-40. H.A. & Margaret Rey Papers, de Grummond Children’s Literature Collection, McCain Library and Archives, The University of Southern Mississippi. Curious George, and characters, created by Margret and H.A. Rey, are copyrighted and trademarked by Houghton Mifflin Harcrout Publishing Company. Copyright 2009 by HMH.

H.A. Rey, unpublished drawing, United States, C. 19502-1960s. H.A. & Margaret Rey Papers, de Grummond Children’s Literature Collection, McCain Library and Archives, The University of Southern Mississippi.

Weekend Events

Thursday, March 4th, 2010

Lizard and Snakes amnh exhibitThis weekend in NYC, think Squamata; the snakes and lizards are back on Central Park West. Beach Fossils or Bizet? You can hear both. Or check out a special seminar for parents dedicated to the cloth (as opposed to disposables).

Hear
Kidrockers Concert: Beach Fossils & Bottle Up and Go
Definitely not your typical kids’ music. In fact, it’s adult music made kid-friendly. Kidrockers concert organizers pluck artists from the heart of the indie music scene to introduce to families. The Beach Fossils play contemporary, guitar-driven pop reminiscent of the Beach Boys. Bottle Up and Go is a blues stompin’ duo.
When: Sun. 3/7, 1-2:30pm; $12 in advance and $15 at the door. Tickets available at brownpapertickets.com. Kids must be accompanied by an adult and vice versa.
Where: The Living Room, 154 Ludlow St. (bet. Stanton & Rivington Sts.)

The Little Orchestra Society presents
A Musical Toy Store
In this Lolli-Pops Concert, kids will learn how spinning tops, rocking horses, bouncing balls and other toys inspired composers to write the music featured in the program. Prokofiev, Bizet, Schumann and Haydn all get the magic Little Orchestra treatment.
When: Sat. 3/6 at 10:30m and noon and Sun. 3/7 at 1 and 2:30pm; tickets are $12 and $40 and are available at littleorchestra.org.
Where: Kaye Playhouse, Hunter College, East 68th St. (bet. Park and Lex. Aves. located on the North side of E. 68th St.)

See
Lizards & Snakes: Alive!
American Museum of Natural History
The lizard and snakes are returning for a six-month stint at the American Museum of Natural History. More than 60 of these live creatures will be on display at AMNH in exquisitely prepared habitats. The exhibit also includes interactive stations, fossils and video.
When: Sat. 3/6 through Mon. 9/6; free with the price of admission.
Where: The American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West at 79th St. Visit amnh.org for museum hours, admission prices and online ticketing. 212-769-5100.

Do
Cloth Diapering Seminar
Madison Rose Maternity
Cloth diapers are making a comeback as more and more of us go the eco-friendly route. But that little, nondescript piece of cloth can be intimidating. This seminar will go over the different types of cloth diaper options and how to care for them. Skeptics welcome.
When: Sun. 3/7 at 10:30am; $15. Must pay in advance to reserve spot. Call 347-689-3365 or e-mail info@madisonrosematernity.com.
Where: Madison Rose Maternity, 313 Court St., Carroll Gardens.

Photo Credit: Copyright D.Finnin/AMNH

Pope Prep

Tuesday, March 2nd, 2010

MomPrep logoWe’ve all heard the ubiquitous proverb: “It takes a village to raise a child.” Well, the same can be said of having a baby, especially in NYC where there is a service to help with nearly every aspect of pregnancy and new parenthood (including a meal delivery service for breastfeeding women). Maternity wear designer Rosie Pope is that village.

The British designer already gives us clothes that are so chic and streamlined, you’ll Rosie Prep dresswant to have them taken in to wear post-pregnancy. Now this bubbly overachiever you can’t help but like - Pope was accepted into Edinburgh Medical School, trained as a dancer at Alvin Ailey, modeled extensively and studied neuroscience at Columbia - is extending her brand and opening the doors to MomPrep. MomPrep, housed in a studio two blocks from Pope’s UES boutique, is the ultimate pregnancy/new mom center. MP offers both private and group classes, including A-Z of Childbirth (a comprehensive labor and delivery primer), Parenting 101 (baby care basics), Baby & Infant CPR, Pre-natal Yoga, Pre-natal Pilates plus a lactation class with the cheeky name Got Jublies? The Sweet Dreams sleep seminar and Baby & Me Yoga Play Date with Rosie and her little guy are also on offer. (The medical-related courses are all taught by l&d nurses.)

Pope says her goal is to have a “lifestyle brand for your entire pregnancy … one-stop shopping for your 40 weeks of pregnancy” so you won’t have to run all over town. She recalls being pregnant and taking a Lamaze class “in the psych ward of a hospital. I had to keep going to the bathroom, and then they would have to keep buzzing me back in” to the classroom because of the tight security.

The best thing about MomPrep? No ERB required.

MomPrep classes begin next week. Visit rosiepopematernity.com and scroll down for a full list of offerings.

*MomPrep, 1316 Mad. Ave. Call 212-608-2036 (Rosie Pope Maternity) for pricing and scheduling.

*Rosie Pope Maternity, 1265 Mad. Ave. (bet. 90th and 91st Sts.)