With a toddler running wild, you’re looking forward to your hospital getaway. Because you know the real labor begins when it’s time to introduce No. 2 to No. 1.
Here are three finds to help ensure a smooth delivery.
Strollers are for babies. Scooters are for big kids. Thanks to Mountain Buggy, you can have both. The new Freerider (launching this month, $100) is a scooter board that attaches to the back of all the company’s strollers. Best part? When older sib needs to exert a little independence, it pops off for a solo ride.
Big sis status is something to celebrate. Personalized, downloadable party packs ($6) from BB’s Tees are an easy way to make a huge deal out of baby’s arrival — by throwing all the attention your older child’s way. Each kit includes cupcake toppers, pinwheels, and invitations to the special event.
With great power — ahem — comes great responsibility. Anoint big brother the official family photographer. Let him train his artistic eye on baby’s homecoming with a Pottery Barn Kids child-friendly digital camera ($99).
That way they both stay in the picture.
| Waist not, want everything! Stock up on maternity clothes for sitting pretty while on stork watch. | |

EXPLORE
Intersections
What: Make a maraca, catch a few dance performances, and take part in other family-friendly activities.
Why: Learn fancy footwork from Step Afrika.
When: Sat., 11 a.m.-5:30 p.m.
Where: Atlas Performing Arts Center, 1333 H St. NE. Tickets at 202-399-7993 ext. 2 or online at intersectionsdc.com. Adults, free-$39; children, free-$20.
WATCH
The Magic Paintbrush
What: A poor orphan yearns to become an artist in this Chinese folk tale.
Why: A gift from a mysterious man sets the colorful story in motion.
When: Thru Apr. 3.
Where: Synetic Family Theater, 4041 Campbell Ave., Arlington (703-824-8061). Tickets at 800-494-8497 or online at robot.boxofficetickets.com. Adults and children, $12 in advance; $15 at the door.
STROLL
Saint Patrick’s Day Parade
What: Fire trucks, clowns, and bagpipers join the procession.
Why: Little leprechauns dig music by the Martin Family Band.
When: Sat., 10 a.m.-1 p.m.
Where: Washingtonian Center, I-370, at Washingtonian Blvd., Gaithersburg. Info at 301-258-6350. Participation is free.
Photo: Courtesy of Mountain Buggy; Courtesy of BB’s Tees; Courtesy of Pottery Barn Kids
![]() | Ballet Flats, Leggings, and Tees for $9 and Up Life is complicated. Dressing shouldn’t be. Simplify with seasonless basics from Sauce, David Lerner, BC Footwear, and more, starting at $9 on our sample sale site. |















Comments