Happy Monday morning! Who’s ready to hit the ground running?

• Puppet Play. There’s something eternally amusing about puppets. Mini munchkins love pulling them on & off while older ones can get creative with voices and shows. Extra bonus – imagination & coordination are hard at work throughout. Grab a paper bag, scissors, a glue stick and some markers, stickers, yarn or other goodies and go to town. Set up a table “stage” and let the shows begin. Looking for some inspiration? Head to Hallandale Tuesday at 11am as the Village at Gulfstream Park hosts an hour-long puppet and magic show.
• Get Academic. Summer classes are winding down and fall registration is upon us. Looking for music? Dance? Mommy & Me? Karate? Yoga? Click here to check out our mom-reviewed class directory – and email us with any questions or additions. Most classes have begun accepting enrollments for September – happy planning!
• Escape. Temps are sky high, vacation is a distant memory and we’re feeling the itch to shake up the routine. Book a sitter, grab a few friends and plan an impromptu stay-cay. Channel your inner Spaniard over sangria & tapas at Sra Martinez, go Greek at Mandolin, feast on sushi and sake at Zuma or gorge on red sauce and Chianti at Randazzo’s. It’s amazing how restorative a few hours away can be – no passport required.

• Weekend Plan. This weekend is all about shopping. Make is a Safe Summer at Dadeland, clean up on summer discounts at Eanie Meanie, browse Gifts for the Gulf at Sunset Place and enjoy the Doggie Days of Summer at Merrick Park.