As single moms, we often must plan our outings in advance! Between juggling daycare dropoffs, afterschool activities and overflowing inboxes, it’s important to schedule family fun. Each week, we’ll share free and low-cost ideas for families in Pittsburgh. Here’s what’s happening September 7-13th, 2019. We teamed up with Single Mom Defined Member Brooke Barry to write a weekly list. As a childcare provider, she knows exactly what events your kids will want to attend! Be sure to LIKE and follow her page on Facebook, Brooke Barry’s Child Care.

For all ages, check out the Carnegie Library of Pittsburgh’s event calendar. Almost every week, you can find an event with games, stories or crafts for little and big kids. Teens even have their own space, for gaming, coding and more. There’s always something new to do and learn. There are animal interactions, cultural celebrations and author meet and greets. Even if you don’t find an event at your neighborhood’s branch, you’ll always find books and that in itself is an adventure! If you need help finding a title that would interest your child, the librarian and book lists are on deck.

Babies & Toddlers

Hop Into History: Nellie Bly’s Journey Around the World

Take your little ones to the Heinz History Center on Wednesday, September 11th from 10:30 -12 p.m. Commemorate the 130th anniversary of Pittsburgher Nellie Bly’s record-setting solo trip around the world. You’ll make food she may have tried in Sri Lanka, China and more. The class engages 2-5 year-olds as they sing, dance and play their way through Nellie’s world. Admission is free for children under five, with a parent/caregiver’s admission.

Tip: Hop on a bus downtown and sing Wheels on the Bus. Let them sit in a window seat!

Buzzword’s Talk and Play Series

Learn new words with the Buzzword family through talk and play at The Shop in Homewood on Wednesday, September 4th from 5:30-7 p.m.! Through talk and play about math, science, and art, families can expand their young children’s vocabulary and conversation skills. All events are free for learners ages five and under, with their caregivers.

Tip: Skip making a meal! Dinner is provided to participants.

Little Kids

Get Curious With Curious George

Meet Curious George at the Children’s Museum of Pittsburgh! This is the final week to see the special exhibit. Journey to Curious George’s™ world and go on STEM-based adventures at Curious George: Let’s Get Curious! See familiar locations and meet friends from the classic books and the PBS television series. Operate wheels to help George climb his apartment building, or pretend you’re a customer or salesperson and shape, sort, weigh and count at the produce stand. And much more! Tip: Receive SNAP? If so, be sure to bring your ACCESS Card for $2 admission.

Peanut Butter & Jam: Say Darlin’ Say

Jam with your kids at the Peanut Butter and Jam Sessions at the Calvary Church in Shadyside Saturday, September 7th. There are two sessions: 10 a.m. and 11:30 a.m. Children sing and dance, right along with the orchestra. Juice boxes and pretzels are provided after each show. Cost: $8 Adults, $5 children and free for 2 and under.

Tip: Hold a photo session in front of the historic church! It’s a beautiful backdrop for your beautiful family.

Big Kids

Run (or Walk) in Wilkinburg’s 1st 5k

Wilkinsburg Public Library in partnership with Mayor Marita Garrett & Wilkinsburg Borough will host its 1st Annual Wilkinsburg 5K Fun Run & Walk on Sunday, September 8th. Same-Day Registration and Packet Pickup starts at 7 a.m. The race kicks off at nine. It’s open to all ages and abilities. There’s a $10 registration fee for adults. It’s free for kids 12 and under and seniors 60+.

Tip: The race will be timed, but you can stroll at your own pace.

Learn to Snowboard (in the Summer!)

Kids can learn to snowboard in shorts at Riglet Park Saturday, September 8th from 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. Snow Pros will be on Federal Street to teach tips and tricks. It’s free and fun!

Moms

Relax Your Mind & Body
Attend a yoga class at Shadyside Nursery on September 11th at 7 p.m. Arrive 15 minutes early to secure a spot. It’s a pay-what-you-can session, which fits everyone’s budget! All proceeds go to the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy. After yoga, all participants will receive a 10% discount on plants.

Tip: Bring a yoga mat and a water bottle. Don’t have a mat? Pick up an inexpensive one at Five and Below.

Check Out Free Admission

Grab a mom friend and visit Phipps Conservatory and Botanical Gardens. You can check out two passes to Phipps when you check out books at Wilkinsburg Library.

Tip: Prioritize pickup! Tickets are going fast!

Save the Date

Take a Night Hike

Join CitiParks Rangers and Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy Naturalists for a full moon hike on Saturday, September 14th. Come hang out at the Frick Environmental Center to learn more about all that’s happening in the night sky. A Star Party kicks off at the fountain, as well as guided hikes through the woods. Hikes meet at the fountain outside of the Frick Environmental Center and are first-come, first-serve. The event is free and for all ages. Be sure to dress for the chilly weather!

Tip: The nearest bus stop is the 61A or 61B at Forbes and Dallas – From the bus stop to the Environmental Center involves an uphill and a stretch with no sidewalk.

Celebrate Black Girl Magic & Black Boy Joy

Saturday, September 14th is the final pop up festival by the P.R.I.D.E program. The last installment takes place from noon to 4 p.m. in the Hill District in the Hug Me Tight parking lot. Artists and educators engage young children and their families in hands-on activities to teach children about their race and culture and build their positive racial identity. You can explore interactive stations. Create a drum, make your own mirror, and more! Plus, there’s traditional dance, and live music throughout the day.

Tip: Don’t go home without your take-home activitiy! P.R.I.D.E. provides a packet with crafts and fun activities to keep the fun and learning going after the festival ends.