Cubes&Crayons

C&C Book Club: Tree of Cranes

2010-12-08T19:53:00.000-08:00

A beautiful story of cultural traditions shared across continents.

AUTHOR: Allen Say

WHAT WE LOVE: A beautifully illustrated book that captures a child's emotional bond with his mother through the simple story of a first Christmas in a faraway land. A great introduction to cultural differences in a child's eyes. And if you haven't discovered Allen Say before, discover him now. Great read aloud for focused 3 -4 year olds and for 5 up to 8.

C&C Book Club: So Few of Me

2010-11-18T19:58:00.000-08:00

A gentle reminder to us all that it's okay to do less and spend more time just enjoying the world around us.

Title: So Few of Me
Author/Illustrator: Peter H. Reynolds

What we love: Quite possibly this book appeals to me so much these days, because of it's ability to capture how over scheduled we all are. Nevertheless it is a delightful tale examining what would happen if we could just one or two or more of ourselves to help with our long to do lists. Peter H, Reynolds, illustrator/author of another of our favorites, The Dot, has done it again. He delights us with a simple tale of one little boy overwhelmed by his long list of tasks dreams of having one more of him and then more and more so that he can get everything done. With lovely illustrations and subtle counting practice, the story resonates with both parents and children. While the littlest will enjoy the pictures, it is recommended for 3 years and up.

C&C Book Club: The Wretched Stone

2010-11-15T20:01:00.000-08:00

The perfect story to remind us of the value of interaction over television and computers.

Title: The Wretched Stone
Author/Illustrator: Chris Van Allsburg

What we love: If you haven't yet picked up a Chris Van Allsburg book, you are missing out. He is one of the most vivid childen's illustrators and profound authors around. This book in particular caught my eye back when I was studying children's literature while getting my Master's degree. We watch a happy crew of sailors who make music, tell stories and dance degenerate into monkeys when they pull aboard a glowing rock. While to adults it may be a clear signal of the sign of the times, children engage in the high detail illustrations and a fanciful story. A great story to remind all of us of the value of being with each other and maybe going a bit more unplugged in this "connected" world. Can be read with children at all levels but highly recommended for 4 - 10 years.

C&C Book Club: Adele & Simon

2010-11-08T19:57:00.000-08:00

A beautiful mix of game and story with amazing illustrations and the love between two siblings.

TITLE: Adele & Simon

AUTHOR/ILLUSTRATOR: Barbara McClintock

What we love: For the mature three year old or the four and up crowd, Adele & Simon is a masterfully illustrated story of a brother and sister living in Paris and their adventures on the wa home from school. With visits to the patisserie, the Louvre, and the park with a parade, they encounter a cast of characters from the gendarme to the acrobats.

And all the while, Simon loses one of his belongings upon each stop. A delightful stand alone story, it also creates a lovely game in trying to find each lost object in the picture. An absolute must addition to any child's library. Also now available, Adele & Simon in America.

C&C Book Club: Five Little Pumpkins

2010-10-28T20:05:00.000-07:00

Simple, well-known rhyme about pumpkins, perfect for the season

Title: Five Little Pumpkins
Illustrator: Dan Yaccarino

What we love: The first time I read this book with one of my daughters, I didn't know this was even a song and she called the pumpkins apple. Despite our auspicious start, it became a favorite much beyond the Fall season. The rhythmic text is engaging, and the bright illustrations are fun. It becomes a great way to play games like "where's the ghost" on each page and identify picture such as the moon and the cat. A delight for children from 6 months to 2 years.

C&C Book Club: The Little House

2010-10-18T19:55:00.000-07:00

A classic tale weaving time, seasons, and the expanding landscape of the city into a fascinating story beloved by children.
Title: The Little House
Author/Illustrator: Virgina Lee Burton

What we love: This 1942 Caldecott medal award winner is a refreshing story still enjoyed by children today. The Little House tells the story of a house experiencing the evolving countryside as the big City grows up around her. With references to seasons, night and day, and historical changes, it is a worthy backdrop for scientific inqury as well as shring a simple, well told tale. The rhythm of the words is enjoyed by children as young as one and recommended to age six.

C&C Book Club: Can You Cuddle Like a Koala?

2010-10-08T19:54:00.000-07:00

As much for parents as for children, a delightful sleepy time book to be enjoyed at an early age.

TITLE: Can you Cuddle Like a Koala?

AUTHOR: John Butler

WHAT WE LOVE: At its surface, Can You Cuddle Like a Koala, demonstrates beautiful illustrations of creatures going through their night time routine. The language is simple and lyrical. Younger children are lulled by the rhythm while older children delight in matching the footprints on the front to all the creatures inside. A lovely story to be enjoyed by children from the earliest days to five or six.

Five Little Pumpkins in October

2010-10-06T13:57:00.000-07:00

Halloween is always a fun time for dress up, making jack o'lanterns and gentle spooks. Among our favorite activities with toddlers:
1. Read Five Little Pumpkins
2. Make tissue Ghosts to string as garland
3. Have fun with jack o'lanterns - nothing beats glue and cutting with all kind of textures
4. Dress up - not just on halloween but all month long; children love to use their imaginations
5. Drop in for halloween messy art and give yourself a treat!

Have a wonderful and safe halloween!

C&C Book Club: If You Give A Moose a Muffin

2010-09-28T12:39:00.000-07:00

One of several fun books in the Numeroff/Bond Series that are beloved by children.

Title: If You Give A Moose A Muffin

Author: Numeroff

Illustrator: Bond

What we love: The second published in a series that begin with If You Give A Mouse A Cookie, this delightful story builds on the antics of a moose who is drawn to several activities all from smelling fresh baked muffins.

The story rings true for parents who can find themselves running around after children who are racing from one activity to another while also being engaging for children. The simplicity of the story and the repetitive nature combine to delight children from 1 - 4 years. There are several in this series. Other favorites of ours include If You Take A Mouse to School and If You Give A Pig a Pancake.

Heard in the "halls"

2010-09-23T20:03:00.000-07:00

People want to know what it's like to be part of Cubes&Crayons...here's what is heard around the "halls":

Being at Cubes&Crayons is like an extension of my home.
I love Sadia - she is amazing with the kids.
I love that when I walk in I see books that I would have at home and that aren't seen at other infant and childcare centers
Everything is so neat and clean and engaging.

There is no TV! (Shocking that people would think there would be)

The toys can be used multiple ways for the senses and learning.

The office space is so cozy. I love reading a book here or I guess working when I have to.

Nai has such a great energy with the kids.

Eveli is so creative.

Drop-in Play is a great idea! I want my kid to get used to being here.

When J gets older, I like that I can still bring him here. He will be here when school is closed definitely because this is his other home.

COOKIES (for the adults)

Upcoming events.

C&C Book Club: Brown Bear, Brown Bear

2010-09-18T12:36:00.000-07:00

Post by Naila, C&C Staff
A classic from Bill Martin that introduces colors to the youngest of readers.

Title: Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See

Author: Bill Martin Jr.

Illustrator: Eric Carle

What We Love:

This book introduces different animals and colors to children and is a delight to read aloud. Kids love seeing the bright colorful pictures and repeating the simple rhyming words. Each page is a new animal and a new color and kids love guessing which animal will come next. The book leads to many fun activities such as acting and sounding like different animals.

Five Great Reads for Young Children

2010-09-08T12:34:00.000-07:00

Grab a book from some of our favorites for young "readers." For even more suggestions read our book reviews posted each week.

1. Can you Cuddle Like a Koala: a lovely bedtime read that lulls you into a gentle slumber.

2. The Dot: For all who aren't sure they can, they will learn to believe.

3. Close Your Eyes: Another of favorite bedtime about the power of dreams to comfort even the smallest of dreamers.

4. The Red Lemon: A visually engaging book with a delightful rhyme your child will be able to recite after only a few listens.

5. When Giants Come to Play: An imaginative journey that children love to imagine.

Profile: Nonprofit Consultant and Happy Mom

2010-09-02T20:01:00.000-07:00

Cubes&C rayons Coworking meet Holly, mother of 15 month old Victoria and nonprofit and environmental consultant. When not playing with her little one, Holly is out doing strategic planning and grant writing for such organizations as Golden Gate Prks. Find out how she is getting it all done at Cubes&Crayons.

What brought you to Cubes&Crayons?
I found out about Cubes & Crayons through Blossom Birth where I had gone for new mother support groups after my daughter was born. I needed a flexible child care option for days when my primary child care situation doesn't work (for instance, when they close for vacation) or on Fridays when I plan to be off, but get sucked into doing more work for clients and need a few extra hours child care.

What do you do for a living?
I'm a consultant. I primarily do grant writing for nonprofit organizations, particularly environmental groups. I also help with strategic planning and general organizational issues. Two days a week I'm in San Francisco working with the Golden Gate Parks Conservancy to build the section of the Coastal Trail along the western Coastal Bluffs -- a nice change from working from home on my computer!

What is your favorite part of the Cubes&Crayons Community?
I'm haven't been there enough to meet a lot of the others, but the staff are really great and I love seeing what type of chocolate there is to be had in the breakroom!

Cubes&Crayons is about having your cake and eating it, too. What's your favorite kind of cake?
Carrot cake rates really high. After five attempts, I've found the perfect recipe: Sam's Famous Carrot Cake which can be downloaded from allrecipes.com.

"Nothing happens unless we first dream it" is a quote at Cubes&Crayons. What do you dream of?

Planting a garden. I put in six tomato plants this year that are just ripening. Next year my plan is for a bigger garden that provides a lot of my family's summer produce. Otherwise many of my dreams I'm now following: raising a family, starting my own business, becoming part of my community.

Modern Mom: Can we Really Have it All?

2010-08-28T20:04:00.000-07:00

While I posted this on my personal blog, it feels even more timely today, and so I share it to remind us all, that we are all working on that balance:

Over the weekend my "wife" had to quit to watch her nephew while her sister tutors. And now I am scrambling to find a replacement. My husband just returned to work from paternity leave and so I am back to conference calls hoping my youngest will map and my oldest will play quietly for a15 minutes.

I live by the belief that as a modern mom we can have it all, but sometimes that reality is far from the truth. The goal towards flexible work options and retention of professional women in the workplace is improving. It is a friendlier work environment for parents in general than it was thirty years ago. I read an article on just this about how moms (or mums) in Australia are trying to make it all work. And so the question remains, can we have it all?

I wonder as I try to get 30 minutes of work done before my husband leaves to catch his train and I grab email off my iphone at the playground or sit up late at night working, because I spent the day playing with my kids. I guess you can. But it isn't an easy road. Whether you are entrepreneur or work for someone else, you are forever struggling to find that balance. From squeezing in playtime to scheduling meetings and finding back up back up childcare, you are forever juggling.

My youngest daughter just turned one and at the end of the day when she was asleep in my arms, I cried, because in some ways I feel as if I missed it. The year went so fast and I wonder if I worked less and volunteered less and yes, didn't try to have my cake and eat it, too, if I would have been less sad at this milestone in her life. Her first birthday...so precious, so sweet. Maybe. I will never know. I might be just as sad knowing that she is my last baby, my last child to turn one, my last girl to start walking and talking and running and jumping and going off to school.

And so, almost daily as I watch my children grow and I balance precariously on a toothpick wondering if I can have it all, I continue to advocate for work-life balance because I would have been sad to miss my children's first steps but I refuse to give up my personal and professional dreams. I am tired and energized all at the same time and just hope that all this

C&C Book Club: The Biggest Job of All

2010-08-23T12:46:00.000-07:00

A story in honor of all the choices we make as mom.

TITLE: The Biggest Job of All

AUTHOR: Harriet Zieffert, Lauren Browne

WHAT WE LOVE: I discovered this book while at storytime with my oldest daughter and I was brought nearly to tears because of the simple and sweet message.

As the enthusiastic heroine, LuLu, explores jobs she could have, children are amused by the mom's suggestions and Lulu's responses. And in the end, when she ponders aht the biggest job of all could be, her mom's answer is priceless. A great read aloud for focused 2 year olds and up.

C&C Book Club: The Very Hungry Caterpillar

2010-08-18T12:29:00.000-07:00

POST BY NAILA, C&C STAFF

Book: The Very Hungry Caterpillar
Author/Illustrator: Eric Carle

What we love: It is a beautiful and timeless classic with wonderful pictures and tons of fun. Kids absolutely adore this book because of brightly colored pictures on each page and repetitive, easy to remember phrases. Eric Carle does a wonderful job of teaching several concepts. Kids learn about nature, food and the days of the week in a gripping story that revolves around a caterpillar's transformation into a butterfl

Have It Your Way

2010-08-13T12:27:00.001-07:00

So I admit, I don't really understand the words "you can't have it" or "we don't do it that way.". Not in a spoiled child kind of way but in a why not? I mean truly we shape the world we want for ourselves and hopefully the community around us.

Burger king used to run a marketing campaign with the slogan "have it your way", meaning you could have the order the way you wanted. Starbucks built entire brand around this. I mean, how many people do you know who just walk into Starbucks and have a coffee? No, it's tall triple shot half calf soy extra hot mocha or a decaf nonfat Carmel Machiatto with whip. Charm City Cakes (see photo) is highly skilled at creating the cake you want the way you want. In fact, they epitomize "you can have your cake and eat it, too."

So, when I am balancing work, life, kids, me, it never even occurs to me that I can't have it my way. Why can't I be successful in career and mommydom? Why aren't there more resources for me? Obviously, that's why I created Cubes&Crayons, but it goes beyond that. I love to hear of these innovative solutions from people who say "yes, you can have it your way". Among my favorites, not counting Cubes&Crayons are (in no particular order):

The mommy and me cafe - having coffee with friends is a much harder task during that window when kids are born to when they are going to school. Enter the cafe + play space where you can have coffee or lunch while your kids play. there are several people who have played with this model across the nation. In Oakland, check out Sadie days cafe or FamilyGrounds Cafe in Chicago.

Mommy & me workout - admittedly there aren't too many of these once your kid gets out of stroller age, but the basic gist is that you toss the kid in the stroller while you workout with a group of parents, using the stroller in your routine. A good, healthy and social solution to squeezing in that workout with baby in tow. One of my favorites: Stroller Strides founded by Lisa Druxman.

Coworking spaces: this is the flexible office space solution that is emerging across the globe. Basically, people drop in to the spaces or pay for a desk and have the water cooler effect of a community with the freedom to shape their work world the way they like. Check out the coworking wiki for a space in your neighborhood

And finally, I was saddened to hear of the Mani+Nanny business closing in San Francisco (where, yes, I could spoil myself for an afternoon while my kids played with staff and SomaVida Wellness center in Austin who recently closed their childcare. I definitely would have used that if there were one near me.

What's your favorite business that is letting consumers have it their way? Please share.

Top 10 Reasons to Buy Local - Make an Impact with Your Choices

2010-08-12T19:59:00.000-07:00

Cubes&Crayons is a local business owned by a Bay Area native. We believe deeply in the value of supporting local businesses for the sustainability of our economy. Buy local and you...

1. Keep Our Community Unique –Locally owned businesses cater to the cultural base of the neighborhood it serves. Residents can find new adventure in a familiar environment. Where we live, shop and play is the foundation of our community. Unique businesses are vital to the diverse character of our neighborhoods

2. Get Better Service – Local businesses tend to hire people with some knowledge of the products they are selling and provide better customer care by giving special attention to each patron they serve.

3. Reduce Environmental Impact –Locally owned businesses are usually found in thriving neighborhoods or city centers as opposed to developing on the border. They along with local residents are more likely to purchase local, resulting in less travel and reduced air pollutants.

4. Invest in the Community – Local business owners live in the community they serve; this lessens the possibility of moving and increases their assets in the future of the community.

5. Create More Good Jobs – Local business provide jobs for residents and are one of the largest employers nationwide.

6. Encourage Local Prosperity – research indicates that entrepreneurs and experienced workers will more likely live and invest in communities that preserve the characteristics of locally owned businesses.

7. Put Your Taxes to Good Use – Local business anchors the neighborhood infrastructure and supports the city and county tax base. Because they don’t outsource, dollars are recycled back into the community. This adds value to the neighborhood by increasing its income.

8. Buy what you want, not what someone wants you to buy – local businesses find a need and fill it. Product selection is based on what the community wants not a “Big- Box” national sales plan. This provides the consumer a more interesting array of products and satisfies the unique needs of the neighborhood

9. Support Community Groups – Local businesses on average support non-profits at a higher rate than big businesses. They are more likely to give back to the community and encourage entrepreneurial growth.

10. Buy Local – Support Yourself – Local business strengthens the economic base of every community. A good deal of the dollars spent with local businesses is used to make purchases from other local entities - creating a domino affect that can preserve a neighborhood even in an economic slow down.

NOTE: 10 reasons to buy local courtesy of San Francisco Buy Local Campaign.

C&C Book Club: Where the Wild Things Are

2010-08-11T12:26:00.000-07:00

Post by Naila, C&C Staff

Title: Where the Wild Things Are

Author & Illustrator:Maurice Sendak

What we like about this book:

Where the Wild Things Are is one of those books that can be enjoyed equally by children and grown-ups. Its wonderfully illustarted and nicely balances the child's need for imaginative thinking with a dose of reality. Your heart gets warmed by the sheer innocence of Max and how he could imagine his room as forest and escape to it. Sendak touches on the fact that parents love their children no matter what ....this book makes it o.k. to be sent to your room once in a while.
Reading this book to your children gives you the opportunity to teach them about obedience, stewardship, love, our choice of words, consequences and more.It also helps overcome the fear of monsters!

Welcome to Mountain View: Our Amazing Staff in Pictures

2010-08-09T14:22:00.000-07:00

Under The Sea: Exploring the world of the Ocean

2010-08-09T12:22:00.000-07:00

C&C in mini

2010-08-08T12:45:00.000-07:00

Cubes&Crayons in Mini International Magazine (yes, as in the car). Stranger things have happened?

Download 03-25-10

C&C Book Club: Jeremy Draws a Monster

2010-08-08T12:21:00.000-07:00

When a creative boy lets his imagination run wild, a monster of his own creation soon is taking over his life in a most demanding way.

Title: Jeremy Draws a Monster

Illustrator/Author: Peter McCarty

What we love: The blank paper of Jeremy's room is a backdrop for his imagination. When one day he decides to create a blue monster, complete with the number 3 and stripes, similar to Jeremy's shirt, who quickly becomes a demanding id constantly asking for more as Jeremy furiously draws a sandwich, a hat, a hot dog, and more.

The adventure continues as Jeremy eventually discovers a way to rid himself of the monster and connect with the children just outside his door. We love that the story captures the attention of the four - six year old child and the illustrations capture a child's imagination. A fun read.

Bring Cubes&Crayons to your Neighborhood

2010-08-08T12:20:00.000-07:00

Cubes&Crayons announces Brand License Program

If you are checking this page out, you are already passionate about achieving that ultimate work-life balance. The thought of going back to a normal job with kids in daycare drives you nuts. You want to have your cake and eat it, too.

As a mom working out of my home, I found myself lacking both the professional community to work in and flexible childcare. Before Cubes&Crayons, I was literally juggling singing lullabies and sending email and neither my daughters were happy nor was I. There had to be a better solution.

ADVANTAGES

LICENSE F.A.Q.

And so, armed with a gut feeling, months of research, and two mini-me “helpers” of my own, I launched Cubes&Crayons, a space for kids and parents to develop side-by-side. Look out, Corporate America. New moms are ready to head on up the corporate ladder…with tots in tow.

We have been featured in Redbook, Entrepreneur, Hybrid Mom, The New York Times and more as well as on popular TV programs and virtually the best of the blogosphere circuit for mommy blogs and more. And now, I am taking all I know to share this opportunity with you to build your own Cubes&Crayons using our knowledge & brand recognition & software + your innovation & dreams! Interested in learning more? Contact us or read now about the advantages of becoming a Cubes&Crayons licensee.

Where Will the Next Cubes&Crayons Be?

2010-08-08T12:19:00.000-07:00

Have a favorite? Check out the map below of potential Cubes&Crayons location. Not seeing your city? Contact us or check out our licensing information.

Art Abounds in July 2010

2010-08-08T12:18:00.001-07:00

The amazing projects coming out of Cubes&Crayons Mountain View:

Joining Bay Area Parents to Help a Mother Out: Diaper Drive

2010-05-08T12:23:00.000-07:00

HAMO Diaper Drive

Giving to moms in need

Help a Mother Out provides diapers and formula to moms who cannot afford them for their children. Just over a year ago we partnered with them for their first diaper drive and brought in 2500 diapers (thank you to member Elly for taking it on.) This year we are thrilled to do it again.

Details:

Drop off diapers(any size) at Cubes&Crayons between may 10th and may 24th. Open packages are fine as well as unopened formula. Thank you for your support of mothers in need in the Bay Area. Please join us whether you are a part of Cubes&Crayons or not. And please share with all your networks.

Cubes&Crayons - 154 E. Dana Street, Mountain View, CA 94041