My Strange Family

http://mystrangefamily.wordpress.com/

The Strange but True Adventures of a new Mom in a Big City. I am a stay-at-home mom whose husband travels the world for work. Everyday is an adventure with my Strange family.

Kris is a winner of Top 25 New York Moms - 2012

In what ways is New York unique from other places you've lived or traveled?

New York is very diverse, each neighborhood is unique and has different hidden gems. After living here almost two years with a kid we are still discovering and finding new things to do each day. So NYC is a BIG city with a small community feel.

What's the best part of raising kids in New York?

We are never bored, between outdoor parks, indoor soft play places, museums and activities we are always busy and scheduled if we want to be. I love the opportunities on offer for myself and my son. Plus if we need to escape, it is just a short train ride out to the suburbs to see country, or a short plane ride to be on a tropical island in the Caribbean.

What's the biggest misconception about living in New York?

That the summers are unbearably hot and the winters are unbearably cold. Coming from Southern California this was my biggest fear that I would not be able to handle the extreme weather conditions. Yes, the weather changes can be a pain but I love seeing different season and the changes taking place in nature.

From Twister to "sardines in a can," we're always looking for indoor games that get our kids moving and burning off energy! Can you share a physical game your kids love that can be played inside?

Kris Strange

My son and I played I Spy today.
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How did you track milestones and special moments during your baby's first year? Please share a link to an image if it's relevant.

Kris Strange

We are raising our kids during the age of technology, so for my sons first year and beyond I used Instagram to track his milestones and special moments. I created a unique #hashtag and then tagged all of these moments of his with it. Then at the end of each year I filter out the hashtag and created a mini-photo/baby book with them. With baby number two on the way I will create a second unique hashtag for her.
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From essential strokes to helpful tips for before and after swimming, what do you think kids should know about swimming and water safety?

Kris Strange

Babies can be introduced to the water around 6 months old. The first skills they should learn are rolling over to float on their backs, so they can cry out if they need help. Next they should be able to climb out the pool along the edge unassisted, they might not always be at the steps if they fall in. You should know to always swim with a partner, never alone. It is best if the parent or caregiver takes time to learn CPR!
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What are your family's favorite activities for keeping cool in the heat (indoor or out)? Please share a link to a picture if you have one!

Kris Strange

We spend many days all year round exploring the amazing parks around New York City. We like to take the subway to different neighborhoods to find the hidden gems and make a whole afternoon of playing and exploring. And these parks are definitely the best part of being in NYC for the summer. Also known as spray-parks, they turn into magical water playgrounds, the fountains and sprinklers coming alive as great cool-down spots for kids and parents alike. Best part? They are all FREE. The Brooklyn Bridge Park Playground at Pier 6 This waterfront park in Brooklyn is our top pick!
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