Wednesdays

BABY SIGNS® STORY TIME
Bounce-n-Play of Charlottesville.
Bring your infants and toddlers to meet BeeBo, the Baby Signs® Bear. By reading children's stories we will show you how you can learn to communicate with your infant or toddler using simple signs and gestures. Seminole Square Shopping Center.  Directions: Toddler Room.  10-10:30am.  $free.  Contact: Gillian.  Email: gillian@babysignsprogram.com. Reservations are required.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 296-2462. 

Thursdays

BABY-TIME
JMRL - Louisa County.
This is a brief ten-minute program for parents and caregivers to meet other parents and learn new, fun things to do with babies. For ages 2 & under. Louisa County Library.  Directions: 881 Davis Highway, Mineral.  10:20am.  $Free.  Email: louisa@jmrl.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 540-894-5853. 

CHARLOTTESVILLE WALDORF PARENT/CHILD PROGRAM
Provides creative, rhythmic activities for both parents and children. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 823-6800. 

Ongoing

INFANT DEVELOPMENT PROJECT-YOU MAKE A DIFFERENCE!
The Arc of the Piedmont.
Learn how to encourage your child's development and growth through play. For children with developmental delays or risk of developing delays. $free.  Recommended for ages 0 to 3.  Contact: Infant development project.  Reservations are required.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 977-4003. 

Mondays

MONTESSORI MORNINGS
Six to twenty four month old children will be allowed to observe and participate in their own way, according to their level of interest and ability. They will be provided with plenty of "freedom of movement" in a nurturing setting. Parents can enjoy observing and interacting with their child in an environment that is carefully tailored to the specific needs of the child at this age. Mountaintop Montessori School on Pantops.  Directions: Just west of the I64 Shadwell/250 exit.  9am-10:15am.  $125 for 8 week session.  Contact: Therese Benzinger.  Email: tbenzinger@montessoripantops.com. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 979-8886. 

Ongoing session, proration available

PARENT/CHILD CLASS FOR BABIES AGES 4 - 10 MONTHS!
The Little Gym, Charlottesville.
Come try one of our "Bugs" classes and start working on all of the tools that they need to grow and be successful! Stretch and play in a safe, warm, nurturing environment, while giving your baby the opportunity to play with mom/dad/nanny/grandparents and the adults get to hang out with like-minded new friends! The Little Gym, 907 Gardens Blvd Charlottesville,VA 22901.  Directions: Behind Pier 1 Imports Rt. 29 North.  Tuesdays, 5:30pm or Thursdays, 11:30am.  $prorated.  Special Needs Accommodation: please call to reserve vist spot  Contact: The Little Gym.  Email: tlgchva@earthlink.net. Reservations are required.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 434-975-5437. 

PARENT/CHILD CLASSES AT THE LITTLE GYM
Fun aerobics, stretching, tumbling, games, bubbles and more for ages infant-3 years. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 975-5437. 

Ongoing, 1st and 3rd Thursday of each month

WELCOME TO MOTHERHOOD
Martha Jefferson Hospital.
Share the ups and downs of this challenging time. Plan to bring your baby and relax with new friends who understand what being a new mother is really all about. The Anne Cary House.  Directions: 419 Lexington Avenue, Charlottesville, VA.  10:30am to 12pm.  $free.  Reservations are required.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 982-7009. 

September 15, Wednesday

BABY BOOT CAMP'S FALL INTO FITNESS CELEBRATION!
Baby Boot Camp.
Join Baby Boot Camp (formerly StrollerFit), for our 4th annual "Fall Into Fitness" Celebration at Pen Park. We'll have a free exercise class, followed by food, prizes, and a fall craft for the kids! Pen Park pavilions.  Directions: Take Rio Rd. east for about 2 miles to Pen Park Rd. on left. Continue to a left before the tennis courts. We will meet by the pavilions.  9:10am.  $free.  All ages welcome.  Special Needs Accommodation: bring a stroller  Contact: Kira Sullivan.  Email: kira.sullivan@babybootcamp.com. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 953-6888. 

EXERCISE CLASSES
Great health clubs and exercise classes abound, from yoga to water aerobics.Visit our AlbemarleFamily Guide to Family Fun Year-Round for comprehensive museum listings for families in our area. For details, please click this link. 

September 11, Saturday

ALL ABOARD THE POTTY TRAIN
CYFS.
Learn different approaches to potty training to consider, how you know if your child is ready for potty training, and tips for common problems with potty training. Gordon Avenue Library.  Directions: 1500 Gordon Library.  10am-12pm.  $free.  Contact: Debbie Baber.  Email: dbaber@cyfs.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 296-4118. 

September 9 & 22

CHILD & INFANT CPR
Red Cross.
Participants learn to recognize and respond to emergency situations with children and infants. Skills include performing rescue breathing, clearing an obstructed airway on a conscious and unconscious victim, and CPR. Certification is valid for one year. American Red Cross Central Virginia Chapter.  Directions: 1105 Rose Hill Drive.  6-10pm.  $50; Book and Skills Card included.  Reservations are required.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 979-7143. 

Wednesdays beginning September 8

SURVIVING THE TEEN YEARS PARENTING CLASS
Children, Youth & Family Services.
A 6-week parenting class series for parents and their older children (ages 10-18) that uses video, class discussion, group problem solving. The program is based on an established national parenting curriculum. It is a class designed for both parents and their children ages 10 or older. Children, Youth & Family Services.  Directions: 1000 East High Street, Charlottesville.  6-7:30pm.  $disccussed at time of enrollment.  Contact: Jack Gallagher.  Email: jgallagher@cyfs.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 296-4119. 

Mondays starting September 13

SIX EASY STEPS PARENTING CLASS
Children, Youth & Family Services.
A parenting class for parents of children 2-12 years old. The program uses a nationally recognized curriculum called "STEP" which includes topics: ages and stages of child development, respectful communication, setting limits and giving choices. Children, Youth & Family Services.  Directions: 1000 East High Street at CYFS office.  6-7:30pm.  $discussed at time of enrollment.  Contact: Beth Castro.  Email: bcastro@cyfs.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 296-4119. 

First Saturday of every month

INFANT AND CHILD CPR AND SAFETY COURSE
UVA Health System.
Learn methods to help save a child's life, and keep children safe in the home. Learn what to do if a child is choking, has stopped breathing, or if the heart has stopped beating. Also, safety issues and baby proofing the home are covered. University Hospital.  9am to 12:30pm.  $25.  Contact: Diane Sampson.  Email: des4v@virginia.edu. Reservations are required.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 924-9920. 

4th Monday of every month

BIRTH CIRCLE COMMUNITY NIGHT
Birth Circle.
New and expectant parents gather for an informal discussion of pregnancy, birth, and all aspects of parenthood. Community Night provides a welcoming space for partners, spouses, friends, and relatives to enjoy the community that Birth Circle regularly creates and nurtures among moms and moms-to-be. Sugar Snap Consignment.  Directions: 480 Shoppers World Court - six doors down from Whole Foods in the corner of the shopping center.  7pm.  $FREE.  Contact: Sugar Snap.  Email: sugarsnap@me.com. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 434-973-0736. 

Ongoing, Thursdays

EMPOWERING FAMILIES PARENTING EDUCATION GROUP
Dr. Daniel Price, Psy.D., P.C.
A parenting education group consisting of eight sessions covering communication skills, discipline, structure, sibling relationships and parental burn-out. You can join the group at any time and still complete all eight sessions. Empowering Families.  Directions: 2400 Bennington Road.  6-8:30pm.  $10/session for single parent $15/session for a couple.  Contact: Dr. Price.  For more info call: 971-8454. 

FREE PARENT SEMINAR FOR DRIVER EDUCATION
Albemarle County Public Schools.
The seminar is a requirement for families with students pursuing a driver's license. Any student registering for behind-the-wheel training must provide the certificate of attendance for the Parent Seminar to participate. Register online at http://www.opendoors1.org/ Albemarle, Western, and Monticello High Schools.  7-9pm.  $free.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 975-9450. 

Ongoing

PEDIATRIC & INFANT CPR
Martha Jefferson Hospital.
This course consists of lectures and practice on mannequins which offers the opportunity to become trained in Infant & Child Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR). The course will include pediatric safety, foreign body airway obstruction and causes of pulmonary and cardiac arrest in children. The Anne Cary House.  Directions: 419 Lexington Ave.  $call for fee and times.  Email: info@mjh.org. Reservations are required.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 982-7009. 

Offered year-round

SIX EASY STEPS FOR PARENTING SERIES
Children, Youth & Family Services.
A six-week parenting class for parents of 5- to 12-year-olds. Cost includes optional individual parent consultation sessions to help parents apply what they learned in the class or to address specific parenting issues. Free child care is available. CYFS, 1000 East High Street.  Tuesday evenings, 6-7:30 p.m..  $75 individual; $100 couple; $125 family for series and three optional parent consultation sessions.  Contact: Beth Castro.  Email: bcastro@cyfs.org. Reservations are required.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 296-4118 x 224. 

First Monday of Every Month

TRANSPARENTING
Children Youth & Family Services.
This is a one-time, four-hour monthly class held for separated or divorced parents who are both involved in parenting their children but are having some difficulty working together. CYFS, 1000 East High Street.  4-8pm.  $50 fee/sliding scale.  Contact: Debbie Baber.  Email: dbaber@cyfs.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 296-4118 ext. 0. 

1st and 3rd Sundays

BABY AND ME: A CLASS FOR BIG BROTHERS AND SISTERS
Martha Jefferson Hospital.
Letting children know what to expect from a new family member can help them adjust. Your child will have the opportunity to visit the hospital, learn how to hold the baby and what it means to be a big brother or big sister. Helpful information for parents is also given. Obstetrics Lounge on South 4 at Martha Jefferson Hospital.  Directions: 459 Locust Avenue.  3-4pm.  $free.  Email: info@mjh.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 982-7009. 

First Saturday of every month

BASICS IN BABY CARE
Martha Jefferson Hospital.
Being comfortable with the details of caring for a baby can give you an extra measure of confidence. This class is designed to prepare you for the care of your newborn. It includes bathing, feeding, infant stimulation and safety. Martha Jefferson Hospital.  Directions: 459 Locust Avenue.  9-10am.  $10.  Email: info@mjh.org. Reservations are required.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 982-7009. 

Fourth Saturday of every month

BREASTFEEDING BASICS
UVA Health System.
A Lactation Consultant will help you prepare for a good start and provide support and information for a great breastfeeding experience. Fee includes a book to take home: "Breastfeeding 101." University Hospital.  Directions: 8th Floor/Women's Place Classroom, 8410.  10am to 12pm.  $15.  Contact: Diane Sampson.  Email: des4v@virginia.edu. Reservations are required.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 924-9920. 

Tuesdays

HOSPITAL TOUR FOR EXPECTANT PARENTS
Martha Jefferson Hospital.
For those considering or planning to deliver at Martha Jefferson Hospital, this tour will help prepare you for the hospital experience by introducing you to the Family Centered Maternity Care Unit, which includes the birthing area, nursery and postpartum rooms. Main Lobby of Martha Jefferson Hospital.  Directions: 459 Locust Avenue.  6pm & 7pm.  $Free.  Reservations are required.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 982-7009. 

First Tuesday of each month

NEWBORN NEWS
UVA Health System.
This class covers the basics in baby care. Learn about health and safety issues, as well as information about newborn behavior. Instructors will give you practical tips and increase your confidence in caring for your new baby. University Hospital.  Directions: 8th Floor/Women's Place Classroom, 8410.  7-9pm.  $10.  Contact: Diane Sampson.  Email: des4v@virginia.edu. Reservations are required.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 924-9920. 

PARENTCARE E-MAIL SERVICE
UVA Women's Place.
ParentCare e-mail service offers weekly e-mails that follow the months through pregnancy and the first year of baby's life. Fun, free and full of great information. $Free.  Contact: Diane Sampson.  Email: des4v@virginia.edu. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 924-9920. 

Ongoing

PREPARATION FOR CHILDBIRTH
Martha Jefferson Hospital.
Prepare yourself and your support person for the birth of your baby. This series of classes includes the following topics: understanding and managing the different stages of labor through relaxation, labor positions and breathing techniques; medication options; and Caesarean birth. Class space is limited, register early in your pregnancy! The Anne Cary House.  Directions: 419 Lexington Avenue.  5 week series - call for schedule.  $50/5 wk series, $30/3wk "refresher" course.  Reservations are required.  For details, please click this link. 

Third Saturday of every month

PREPARED CHILDBIRTH QUICK CLASS
UVA Health System.
This one day class will help you understand stages of labor,and discuss relaxation techniques and other coping skills. Includes information about interventions and postpartum care. A tour of labor and delivery is included. University Hospital.  9am-4pm.  $50.  Contact: Diane Sampson.  Reservations are required.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 982-3678. 

Tuesdays

PREPARING FOR BIRTH AND BABY
UVA Health System.
This five part series will cover all you need to know about the labor process, relaxation techniques, options for pain relief and hospital policies. We will also discuss how to work with your health care team to make the best birth experience for you. Basics in baby care and typical newborn behavior is covered in the third class of the series by a Nursery nurse. It is a comprehensive class that will help you gain confidence for the birth of your baby and starting out your new family. 6:30pm to 8:30pm.  $60.  Contact: Diane Sampson.  Email: des4v@virginia.edu. Reservations are required.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 982-3678. 

Fourth Monday of every month

SIBLING CLASS
UVA Health System.
A class for expectant siblings aged 2-10. A nursery nurse will talk to the children about what a new baby is like, how they can help and a peek at a labor room and the nursery. A fun way to get children talking about the changes to come! University Hospital.  5-6pm.  $free.  Recommended for ages 2 to 10.  Contact: Diane Sampson.  Email: des4v@virginia.edu. Reservations are required.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 924-9920. 

September 21, Tuesday

THE MOMS CLUB OF CHARLOTTESVILLE-NORTH OPEN HOUSE
The MOMS Club of Charlottesville-North.
Get to know The MOMS Club of Charlottesville-North. Current members will be available to talk about The MOMS Club and what it has to offer to stay at home moms and moms with flexible working schedules. There will be some treats to share along with information about the club. Children are welcome and will spend time in a large playroom with lots of toys. The MOMS Club is a nonprofit organization that provides support to stay at home moms and moms with flexible working schedules. We schedule activities such as playgroups, field trips, charitable projects, and Mom's Nights Out throughout each month. The Church of the Incarnation.  Directions: Take Rte 29 and turn onto Branchlands Blvd, by Toys R Us near Fashion Square Mall. Make a left onto Hillsdale, make an immediate right onto Incarnation Dr. #1465.  10am.  $Free.  All ages welcome.  Special Needs Accommodation: None  Contact: Megan W. Ice.  Email: cvillemoms4you@yahoo.com. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 990-2674. 

September 27, Monday

THE MOMS CLUB OF CHARLOTTESVILLE-NORTH MEET & GREET MONDAY
The MOMS Club of Charlottesville-North.
The MOMS Club of Charlottesville is a nonprofit support group for stay at home moms and moms with flexible working schedules. Playgroups, activities, charitable projects and Mom's Night Out are scheduled throughout each month. Current members and moms who may be interested in joining our club are invited to meet one another and learn more about what The MOMS Club has to offer. Pen Park.  Directions: Take Route 250 East to the Park Street exit, turn left, follow Park Street onto East Rio Road, turn right onto Pen Park Road, and follow it through the gate. OR take Rte. 29 to East Rio Rd (turn toward Fashion Square Mall), go 2 miles, turn left onto Pen Park Rd, follow it through the gate..  10am.  $Free.  All ages welcome.  Special Needs Accommodation: None  Contact: Megan W. Ice.  Email: cvillemoms4you@yahoo.com. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 990-2674. 

PARENTING NETWORK OF CHARLOTTESVILLE (PNOC)
Parenting Network of Charlottesville.
PNOC: Parenting Network of Charlottesville, serves parents with children of all ages in the greater Charlottesville area as a networking and discussion forum. PNOC is a place to exchange ideas and information, and to network about activities and resources. All topics related to parenting are open for discussion. All ages welcome.  For details, please click this link. 

CHILDREN WITH ASPERGER'S IN ELEMENTARY SCHOOL
Do you have a child with Asperger's in Elementary school? If so, come join a support group to meet other parents of children that have Asperger's and are elementary aged in the public school system. Call for dates and location. Contact: Heather.  Email: hlbayers@gmail.com. For more info call: 973-5652. 

FAMILIES UNITED THROUGH ADOPTION
Offering a full range of information and support for families interested in adoption. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 923-8253. 

First Tuesday of the month

FOSTERING ADOPTIVE FAMILIES
Adoptive Family Preservation.
A monthly adoption support group that is an opportunity for adoptive parents to share their stories, seek advice, resources, support and laughs with a been-there-done-that group. On-site childcare is offered with RSVP. Aldersgate United Methodist Church .  Directions: 1500 East Rio Road.  6-8pm.  Contact: Maureen Oswald, Adoptive Parent Liaison.  Email: luvadopt@aol.com. Reservations are required.  For more info call: 973-2981. 

HOMESCHOOLING GROUPS
There are many wonderful homeschool groups in our community. Click here to see a complete listing. For details, please click this link. 

Ongoing

MOMS CLUB OF CHARLOTTESVILLE - NORTH
The MOMS Club of Charlottesville-North is a nonprofit group that offers activities and support to stay-at-home moms and moms with a flexible work schedule. Please contact one of the membership people for a calendar of daily activities, including monthly meetings, speakers, playgroups, park days, crafts, outings, MOM's nights out, service projects to benefit children in need, and much more. All moms are welcome! Meets weekly, contact for day and time.  Email: cvillemoms4you@yahoo.com. For details, please click this link. 

SPECIAL NEEDS KIDS OF CHARLOTTESVILLE
This group is for parents, family members, friends, loved ones, and professionals of kids with special needs in the Charlottesville and surrounding areas. The group welcomes all who are interested in networking with other parents for information, resources, and those who wish to support other families with children who have special needs. Albemarle, Fluvanna, Green, Louisa, Nelson, Augusta, Orange, Madison, and other surrounding counties are all welcome. Go to yahoogroups.com, then search on SpecialNeedsKidsOfCharlottesville.

fourth Tuesday of the month

THE COMPASSIONATE FRIENDS
Piedmont Chapter of The Compassionate Friends.
A voluntary self-help support group for families who have experienced the death of a child. Meetings include sharing as well as guest speakers. Not affiliated with any particular religion or political organization. The Church of Our Saviour.  Directions: 1165 East Rio Road, Charlottesville.  7pm.  $free.  All ages welcome.  Contact: Ginny Smith.  Email: ginnysmith1@comcast.net. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 973-8844. 

Fourth Thursday of every month

THE COMPASSIONATE FRIENDS
Piedmont Chapter of The Compassionate Friends.
A voluntary self-help support group for families who have experienced the death of a child. Meetings include sharing as well as guest speakers. Not affiliated with any particular religion or political organization. The Church of Our Saviour.  Directions: 1165 East Rio Road, Charlottesville, VA.  7pm.  $free.  All ages welcome.  Email: ginnysmith1@comcast.net. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 973-8844. 

Friday evenings

DATE NIGHT DROP-OFF
Virginia Discovery Museum.
A night out for you and your kids! This pre-registration drop-off program includes a craft, and lots of games, pizza, a beverage and free time to play in the Museum! Pre-registration required/Space is limited to 12 children per week and will not run without a minimum of 4 children. Virginia Discovery Museum.  Directions: East end of the Downtown Mall (near City Hall).  5:30-8pm.  $25 per child for non-members; $20 per child for members.  Recommended for ages 4 to 7.  Email: gallerymanager@vadm.org. Reservations are required.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 977-1025. 

KIDSITTING
Need some time off to catch up on some errands or go out to dinner? Do you have a plan for when the kids are off from school? A few businesses around town offer extra special child care/recreation programs for just such occasions. All ages welcome.  Reservations are required.  For details, please click this link. 

September 9, Thursday

MONTICELLO BIRD CLUB MONTHLY MEETING
Monticello Bird Club.
Learn about the birds and bird habitat of the Culpeper Basin of northern Virginia. Mary Elfner will lecture about their present as well as future difficulties they face. Free and open to the public. Meet in the Education Center. Ivy Creek Natural Area, 1780 Earlysville Road.  7pm.  $Free.  Contact: Bruce Gatling-Austin.  Email: programs@ivycreekfoundation.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 973-7772. 

September 30, Thursday

ARE WE PREPARING OUR CHILDREN FOR SUCCESS IN SCHOOL?
Join Robert C. Pianta, Ph.D., Dean of the Curry School of Education at UVA, for a lecture on planning and action for school readiness in Charlottesville and Albemarle. Bavaro Grand Hall, Curry School of Education, UVA.  Directions: Parking at UVA Central Grounds Parking Garage 400 Emmet Street - across from Bavaro Hall.  3:30pm reception; 4-5:30pm presentation.  $free and open to the public.  Contact: Miriam Rushfinn.  Email: mrushfinn@unitedwayTJA.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 972-1702. 

Sundays

RADIO TALK SHOW - EXPLORING OPTIONS FOR CHILDREN'S HEALTH - ON WVAX 1450AM
Holistic Pediatrics & Prax Chiropractic.
Join Doctors Brian and Jennifer Prax along with Dr. Eric Rydland on Sundays at 8:30am for "Exploring Options for Children's Health." Each week a new topic relating to Children's Health will be discussed. Local Radio on WVAX 1450 AM.  8:30 to 9am.  $free.  Contact: Jennifer Prax.  Email: info@chiroprax.com. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 977-5433. 

2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month ongoing

BUMBLEBEES AND BUTTERFLIES PLAYGROUP
Stanardsville United Methodist Church.
A time for children ages 0-Pre-K to play, have story time, crafts and music in a Christian environment while moms have time to gather and share. some field trips and moms' nights out included at various times. Stanardsville United Methodist Church.  Directions: 29 north, turn left on 33. Turn right on 33 buisness and turn left onto Ford avenue. Church is located on Court street..  10 am unless otherwise noted.  $free.  Contact: Julie Nitzsche.  Email: jan2e@virginia.edu. For more info call: 990-8375. 

EARLY LEARNING PLAYGROUPS
Children, Youth & Family Services.
Early learning playgroups for children 0-6 from low-income families with their parents or caregiver: Come Play! Each week explore all of the many toys the Parenting Mobile has to offer: baby toys galore, shape sorters, puzzles, blocks, trains, scooters and more! Parks Edge, Southwood, Westhaven neighborhoods.  Times vary; call for information.  $free.  Contact: Hilary Nagel.  Email: hnagel@cyfs.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 296-4118 ext. 238. 

Every first Sunday of the month

ELA NA PAIXOUME! THE GREEK READING AND PLAYGROUP
This group meets every first Sunday of the month. Parents take turns reading books in modern Greek, and play traditional games and hang out! Prior exposure to Greek language helpful (there is no language instruction). The current group focuses on ages 3-7. 3-4pm.  $Free.  Recommended for ages 3 to 7.  Contact: N Hild.  Email: n@hild.org. Reservations are required.  For more info call: N/A. 

FLUVANNA MOTHER'S GROUP
Fluvanna Mother's Group is an organization that offers an open playgroup for children up to age 6 and their caregivers - moms, dads, grandparents and nannies. It provides an indoor play area for the children and an opportunity for caregivers to socialize. A variety of toys, including tumbling mats, tricycles, train sets, and blocks are available. Special events occur throughout the season, including an Easter egg hunt and an end-of-the year cookout. Carysbrook Gym.  Directions: From Charlottesville, take 64 east to exit 136, make a right off the exit onto James Madison Hwy. Located approximately 15 miles on the left near softball fields.  $free.  Recommended for ages 0 to 6.  Contact: Bridgett Respess.  Email: vakidgroup@yahoo.com. For more info call: 804-375-3356. 

Ongoing, Wednesdays

GERMAN PLAYGROUP
Instructor is a native speaker with extensive experience teaching young children. The kids learn through fun activities such as games, crafts, and songs. Call for location and times.  $free.  Recommended for ages 4 to 7.  Contact: Monique VanLandingham or Wendi Rushmann.  Email: moniquevanl@hotmail.com. Reservations are required.  For more info call: 295-4027. 

Starting February 13, Tuesday and ongoing 2nd Tuesdays of each month.

MOMS AND DADS WITH TODDLERS AND PRESCHOOLERS PLAYGROUP
Rebecca Perini.
Babies, Toddlers and Preschoolers! Bring your Moms or Dads to a new Charlottesville playgroup -- the second Tuesday of each month. Activities, safety, fun and affordability are the goals of this playgroup! Moms and Dads get to enjoy interesting company while the children get to do the same! Meet other moms and dads while children play at local parks and playgrounds, read in the libraries, and socialize with each other at Cville Coffee or the Discovery Museum. First playgroup meeting - McGuffey Park near Downtown Mall.  Directions: McGuffey Park is 2 blocks north of the Downtown Mall, sitting just above the McGuffey Arts Center.  9:30am.  Recommended for ages 0 to 6.  Contact: Rebecca Perini.  Email: rperini@adelphia.net. For more info call: 242-0767. 

STUDENTS WITH CHILDREN
Students With Children.
Network with other parents who are also attending the University of Virginia. Organized by the Office of the Dean of Students. Call for location and times. Call for location and times.  Email: studentswithchildren@virginia.edu.

September 8, Wednesday

VIRGINIA NATIVE PLANT SOCIETY MEETING
Virginia Native Plants Society.
Come hear a prepared talk about native plant issues. Monthly Meetings on the second Wednesday of the month are free and open to all plant enthusiasts in the Education Center at Ivy Creek Natural Area. Ivy Creek Natural Area, 1780 Earlysville Road.  7:30pm.  $Free.  Contact: Bruce Gatling-Austin.  Email: programs@ivycreekfoundation.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 973-7772. 

September 12, Sunday

NATIONAL GRANDPARENTS' DAY
AlbemarleFamily wishes everyone a very happy Grandparents' Day!

Now through September 15

"CALLING ALL TEACHERS" CAMPAIGN - POST CLASSROOM PROJECTS FOR FUNDING
U.S. Cellular.
Teachers are invited to register on DonorsChoose.org as a "U.S. Cellular Teacher" and post their classroom projects, ranging from math, science and history to special needs, health and fitness, to be considered for funding. U.S. Cellular will announce the teachers whose projects are selected for funding in October. Contact: Melissa Watkins .  Email: melissawatkins@comcast.net. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 804-402-5316. 

September 19, Sunday

EIGHTH ANNUAL TONY FOGLIANI MEMORIAL GOLF TOURNAMENT
Charlottesville-Albemarle SPCA.
Time for some Puttin-for-the-Pooches & Chippin'-for-the-Kittens to benefit the animals at the Charlottesville-Albemarle SPCA. Participation open to individual golfers and teams looking for a fun day on the links. The tournament is a fun, four-person Captain's Choice format with special competitions for Closest to Pin, Longest Drive, and Beat the Pro, with the added excitement of a Hole-in-One prize featuring a new car. Join the community as it celebrates Tony Fogliani and his enthusiastic love of life, golf, animals and the SPCA. Registration is all-inclusive and includes greens fee, cart rental, a special dinner and awards ceremony, and great raffle prizes provided by generous local businesses. Shenandoah Crossing Golf Course.  Directions: Gordonsville.  12pm registration, 1pm shotgun start; 5pm buffet awards dinner .  $260/team or $65/person before August 23; $300/team or $75/person after August 23.  Contact: Douglas Ponton.  Email: afogliani@aol.com. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 540-832-7164. 

August 4 - September 24

UVA PERSONAL ENRICHMENT FALL COURSE REGISTRATION
UVa School of Continuing & Professional Studies.
Me time! No grades, just the opportunity to explore your interests with courses in the arts and music, religion, garden and landscape, business and finance, the physical world, writing, and language. New items for fall include earlier start times on many courses, a number of shorter course offerings, expanded offerings on local interest topics, and a special lecture series on Ulysses S. Grant. UVa School of Continuing & Professional Studies.  Directions: Zehmer Hall.  8am-5pm Mon-Fri.  $100-$250.  Recommended for ages 18 to 100.  Contact: UVa School of Continuing & Professional Studies.  Email: scps-uc@virginia.edu. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 982-2779. 

September 25, Saturday

"IN THE PINK" TENNIS TOURNAMENT
The Women's Committee of Martha Jefferson Hospital and Virginia National Bank.
The event is open to the public and men and women of all playing abilities are invited to wear PINK and come out and play! Proceeds benefit Marianne's Room at Martha Jefferson which provides specially ordered wigs, scarves, prostheses and other support, free of charge, to patients undergoing cancer treatments. Seven Charlottesville area tennis venues: Farmington Country Club, Boar's Head Sports Club, Glenmore Country Club, Keswick Club, Forest Lakes, ACAC (men's site) and Fairview Swim & Tennis.  9am-12pm.  $100 per doubles team.  Contact: Lauri Wilson.  Email: lauri.wilson@mjh.org. Reservations are required.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 982-8173. 

September 18-26

LOLLIPOP SHOP
Find bargains on gently used kids' clothing, strollers, cribs, toys and furniture at this semiannual sale. 1895 Seminole Trail.  Directions: 1895 Seminole Trail, Charlottesville (former Bassett Furniture on Rt 29 North, across from Lowes and Chick-Fil-A).  10am-6pm daily, Sundays 1-6pm.  All ages welcome.  Contact: Christy Wenzel.  Email: christy@lollipopshopsale.com. For details, please click this link. 

September 29, Wednesday

CHARLOTTESVILLE COMMUNITY FALL JOB FAIR
City of Charlottesville and local agencies and businesses.
More than 70 employers from a wide variety of industries such as hospitality, health care, technology, retail, education and government will be represented. Look for some of the area's most prominent employers. Job-seeker resources including resume-writing assistance, tips for successful interviewing and image consulting will be available onsite. Attendees should wear interview clothing, bring copies of resumes, come without children, practice a one-minute introduction and be sure to network and follow up with potential employers. John Paul Jones Arena.  Directions: 295 Massie Road.  10am-3pm.  $Free.  Contact: Hollie Lee.  Email: leeh@charlottesville.org. For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 970-3117 . 

Ongoing

FREE SMOKE DETECTOR PROGRAM FOR CITY RESIDENTS
City of Charlottesville.
The Free Smoke Detector Program provides free smoke detector(s) for City of Charlottesville VA residents ONLY. This includes the smoke detector and the installation - all free of charge. Call the Fire Department's Neighborhood Safety Hotline 970-3245 or use the online email form. $FREE.  For details, please click this link.  For more info call: 970-3245.