Big Apple Parent February 2020 by City Guide NY

BigApple Parent NYMETROPARENTS.COM Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

FEBRUARY 2020

CAMP COUNTDOWN • Month-by-month planning timeline • Camp comparison chart

YouTube & Kids

Safe streaming practices for families

Ask DadandBuried

Should I get my kid an iPhone?

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February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

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BigAppleParent

inside

february 2020

Original photo by Sarah Merians Photography & Video Company (sarahmerians.com) Clothing courtesy Macy’s Backstage (macysbackstage.com)

18 YouTube & Kids Safe streaming practices for families

22 Dental Health by the Numbers What you need to know to keep kids’ smiles healthy

24 Camp Countdown A month-by-month timeline to plan for the summer

44 Discovering Diversity 9 books for kids in honor of Black History Month

46 Keeping the Peace How to reduce conflict when your kids share a room

COLUMNS 6 Editor’s Note 11 News: What’s happening in the community 14 Advice: Ask DadandBuried 16 Mommybites: Registry Secrets 50 Last Word: What do you really want for Valentine’s Day?

THINGS TO DO 29 Family Activities Calendar 42 Outing: Day Trip, Anyone?

RESOURCES 26 Camp Chart 39 Open Houses 47 Professional Services

48 Party Central 49 Advertisers’ Index

NYMetroParents

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions facebook.com/nymetroparents

@NYMetroParents

Visit NYMETROPARENTS.COM for family activities updated daily and more than 2,000 parenting articles!

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editor’s note

Looking Ahead

re you dreaming of summer yet? We’re excited about the thought of the cold giving way to warmer days ahead, filled with beach days, family vacations, and summer camp. You may think it’s too early to consider your child’s summer plans when it isn’t even spring yet, but the experts disagree. In fact, the American Camp Association recommends attending camp fairs now if you’re in search of a new summer program for your child. Plus, a number of camps offer discounts for early registration! For other camp planning tips, turn to p. 24, and be sure to check out the camp comparison chart on p. 26 to help you choose the best camp for your child. Another thing we’re excited about? The redesign of NYMetroParents.com! We spend a lot of time thinking of ways to help you make the best decisions for your family, and we streamlined our site to make it even easier! Don’t worry: You’ll still find the same great articles, hundreds of things to do on any given day in our calendar, and the top resources in your community. Speaking of the Internet, did you know YouTube is the most-used online platform among tweens and teens? Regardless of how old your children are, you’ll want to check out “YouTube & Kids” on p. 18. It outlines how you can better keep your kids safe when they’re streaming videos, limit the inappropriate content they have access to, and improve their media literacy. And if you’re looking for things to do during the long Presidents Day weekend or midwinter recess, be sure to browse the family activities calendar on p. 29 and the roundup of area day trips on p. 42. Here’s to hoping Punxsutawney Phil doesn’t see his shadow!

Katelin Walling Editorial Director Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

FEBRUARY 2020 • Vol.36 • No.2

NYMetroParents nymetroparents.com

EDITORIAL

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Katelin Walling PRODUCTION EDITOR: Melissa Wickes FEATURES EDITOR: Shana Liebman ASSISTANT EDITOR: Jacqueline Neber CALENDARS CALENDAR COORDINATOR: Whitney C. Harris EVENT RESEARCHERS: Kristina Johnson, Shara Levine DIRECTORIES EDITOR: Alice Van Dyke

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Meet This Month’s Cover Kid! Our cover star is 4-year-old Zachary from Queens—a finalist in our 2019 Cover Kids Contest! It’s a family tradition: His sister Emily was the winner of our 2014 cover contest! A huge thanks to Macy’s Backstage for Zachary’s outfit, and an even bigger shout out to Sarah Merians of Sarah Merians Photography & Video Company (sarahmerians.com) for the great photo! Want to know when the 2020 cover contest opens? Sign up for our newsletter at nymetroparents.com/newsletter!

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news

Tickets are on sale now for Trolls Live!, which will be at Hulu Theater at Madison Square Garden June 13-14.

A Troll-Tastic Time This hair-raising, interactive extravaganza will delight your little Trolls lover.

Warm up your singing voice: Trolls Live! is going on its first-ever live tour. What’s more, Vstar Entertainment Group and the Madison Square Garden Company recently announced our favorite Trolls are making a stop at the Hulu Theater at MSG! Poppy, Branch, Guy Diamond, Cloud Guy, Fuzzbert, and more Trolls friends will come to life on stage to save their beloved Hug Time. There will be singing, dancing, glitter, and plenty of hugs, along with special effects and plenty of surprises. Kids will love to sing-along to their favorite Trolls songs—and be enchanted by all-new songs! Trolls Live! will run June 13-14 with three performances each day, and tickets are currently on sale. Find out more details at nymetroparents.com/trolls-live.

BigAppleParent 11

Danielle Guenther Photography

news

A Day to Indulge Celebrate World Nutella Day on Feb. 5 by serving your kids toast topped with the chocolatey hazelnut spread for breakfast. Just don’t let them see you sneak it by the spoonful, or else you’ll always be running out of it!

“Hold on a Sec,” from Danielle Sapienza’s Best Case Scenario series, which depicts real, raw, crazy moments of parenthood

Celebrating the Chaos of Parenting Liquid Gold Want to know how maple syrup is made (we’re talking the 100-percent pure liquid gold)? Head up to Muscoot Farm in Katonah, Westcheter County, to learn the history of maple sugaring, then head outside to help tap the maple trees. Sunday, Feb. 9, 12-2pm. Find more maple sugaring events at nymetroparents.com/ maple-sugaring.

Judgement-Free Zone 64% of parents said they’d most like to see mom shaming go away in 2020, according to a survey by Boudreaux’s Butt Paste. Now that’s a trend we can get behind.

anielle Sapienza is a NYC-based lifestyle photographer (@danielleguentherphotos) and artist who celebrates the chaos of parenting. Her photos are original and often hilarious—family scenes we can find humor and delight in imagining. As the mother of a 10-year-old and a newborn, she’s inspired by the energy of those little people that run our daily lives with such power, enthusiasm, and emotion.

How would you describe your images?

What’s the best parenting advice you ever received?

I capture the raw, real, crazy moments we have as parents, when we feel as if our heads are spinning. The children love to be involved in the rebellious fun, and everyone gets to act the scene! I also adore photographing families and documenting them in their everyday setting, whether that’s indoor at home, or out on the street in the hustle of NYC. Our lives seem to pick up speed when we have children, and these little moments are soon forgotten. Photography is so special in the sense that we can always look back at these memories and we never forget.

“Just keep them alive. That’s all that matters.” It’s pretty true! As parents we have so much information floating around about every topic, it can make us INSANE! I try not to compare to other parents, and just go with what works. The hardest part of being a parent is trusting that you’re a good parent.

Amy Schumer for sure. She’s so real. Any parent that can be as honest, raw, and real as her...sign me up!!

Read more from Sapienza at nymetroparents.com/danielle.

Connect with us facebook.com/nymetroparents

Which famous parent would you like to have dinner with and why?

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

@nymetroparents

@NYMetroParents

New Places, New Programs Scholarships for Bilingual Students The École is offering a middle school scholarship for the 2020-2021 school year. The scholarship will be renewable for the student’s duration at The École (up to three years). In order to apply, students must be a current fifth-, sixth-, or seventh-grader; speak, read, and write in French and in English; and not already be an École student. To apply, fill out an application on the École’s website, submit an original writing sample in French and English, and write an original essay on the importance of bilingualism. Applications close Feb. 22. 111 E. 22nd St., Flatiron; 646-410-2238; theecole.org.

Explore Larger-than-Life Artwork Children’s Museum of Manhattan opened Inside Art on Jan. 18, an exhibit in which kids ages 3-10 can assemble, create, crawl under, and walk through large-scale installations and sculptures. The exhibit invites children to solve puzzles, decode patterns, and move like a groundhog as they dwell in a burrow. The exhibit features artwork by 11 contemporary artists, whose work explores ideas around architecture, natural phenomenon, collaboration, and culture. 212 W 83rd St., Upper West Side; 212-721-1223; cmom.org.

Are You Ready for Some Football?

Super Bowl Snacks While we may not all be rooting for the same team on Feb. 2, there’s one thing we can all agree on: We’ll need snacks. We’re serving up plenty of family-friendly, healthy—and even a few vegan—options over at nymetroparents.com/ football-snacks. We’re talking spinach garlic dip, sriracha chorizo deviled eggs, barbecue chickpea sliders, and more. And, hey, if you’re just watching for the commercials, the half-time show (Hello, JLo and Shakira!), and food, more power to you!

Game Day Fun for Kids

I’m glad this isn’t as good as it’s gonna get, there’s so much more goodness in raising you. #motherhood —Posted by @transparentcitymama

Keep the kids having fun with these craft, game, and dessert ideas! Warmup: Make paper pompoms to cheer on your team by cutting various colored tissue paper into small strips and having kids tape them to the ends of paper towel or toilet paper rolls. Regulation play: Look for objects during the game starting with letters of the alphabet. To make it challenging, designate a section of the alphabet to each quarter. Half-time entertainment: Make Super Bowl sundaes! Set up a station where kids can create their own sweet treat with toppings, sprinkles, sauces, and ice cream. Visit nymetroparents.com/ football-party for more ideas.

Want to see your child in our magazine? Tag us on Instagram (@nymetroparents) for a chance to be featured!

BigAppleParent 13

advice

Ask DadandBuried Through our unique dual program, which incorporates both the French and American curricula, The École offers students the lifetime benefits of a bilingual education and empowers them to create and connect to a world filled with possibilities.

My son is 11 and says everyone in his class has an iPhone. I wasn’t planning on getting him one for several more years, but it sounds like he’s feeling left out and possibly bullied for not having one. Should I just buy him an iPhone or continue to resist? —Julianna B., Carroll Gardens, Brooklyn

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February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

he struggle is real. I have a 9-year-old, and while not everyone in his class has an iPhone, some kids already do. We’re holding fast to our “no smartphone yet” policy, but it gets trickier every year. When he turns 12 or 13, we’ll be hard-pressed to deny him. Kudos to you for getting this far! At that age, there are some good reasons to consider giving in, although I’m not sure bullying is a great one. Peer pressure is rarely a good reason to do something, and we certainly don’t want to let the bullies win! That said, smartphones are a necessary evil, and as your kid gets older, the positives—for him and you—will eventually outweigh your reservations. I’m dying to have a way to communicate with my son when he’s on the bus, or to remind him to turn in a permission slip. I also need him to have his own Spotify account; I don’t want our future robotic overlords to think I worship Imagine Dragons! The fact is, smartphones are going to be a part of our kids’ lives for the foreseeable future. They see friends with them, and no doubt see their parents using them, which makes withholding one increasingly difficult. (If someone tried to take away my smartphone, it would get ugly fast. Just ask my wife!) The good news is there are services that can help monitor his activity and restrict certain apps and websites. If you wish, you can basically turn the phone into—gasp!—an actual phone. (For an example, check out Gizmo.) That way you can get the benefits of easier communication with your son and he can still feel like one of the “cool kids.” I would start signaling your capitulation but tie it into some kind of reward-based scheme. Make him earn the thing. And then get him his own Spotify account. Our advice column features the wise, humorous commentary of Mike Julianelle (aka @DadandBuried), a 40-something influencer with a popular podcast who lives in Brooklyn with his wife and two kids.

HAVE A QUESTION FOR DADANDBURIED? Send it to editor@nymetroparents.com with the subject “DadandBuried’s Advice.”

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mommybites

Registry Secrets

Veteran moms share what to keep in mind when creating your wish-list, so you don’t get overwhelmed. By Christina Vercelletto

reating a successful baby registry can drive you a little crazy. You need the hindsight of a veteran mom to know what you really need—but you’re a rookie! To make the process a little easier, we spoke to moms who have learned the hard way about how to get the job done right. There is no ultimate authority on what you will need. While your best friend, who has a 1-year-old, might swear by the latest and greatest bottle warmer, “essential” is a highly subjective concept when it comes to baby gear. For example, fancy diaper pails and front carriers or slings are hated as much as they are loved. Better to tap the wisdom of all your new mom friends, then compare their lists to look for commonalities. Cast a wide net. Instead of registering at one store, set up a Pinterest board with images that link back to the respective shops. You can pin anything, including cleaning and spa services, meal deliveries, and handmade goodies on Etsy. Consider throwing in things like newmom yoga pants, wall art for baby’s room, or a new laundry basket. Ask that your shower invite include the link to your board. Divide and conquer. Creating a registry is an exhausting process—a solid 4 hours is not uncommon. Consider splitting the job into two sessions, with one devoted to the two items that most demand a clear head: the stroller and car seat. Include different price ranges. Those who aren’t invited to your shower—say a co-worker or your parents’ neighbor—will need under-$15 ideas, so check out board books, baby hats, bath toys, and those fun stickers (1-month, 2-month, etc.) that go on a baby’s shirt for photos throughout the first year. Entice friends and family to buy the functional items. Most shower guests don’t want to give a nasal aspirator or a vaporizer, which, while necessary, don’t make the gift-giver feel warm and

fuzzy. Take advantage of the “add a note” option that many registries let you attach to individual items and say something like: “I’d feel so much better if I had this on hand, knowing I could do everything possible to comfort my little one when he gets sick.” Some items in the store aren’t online, and vice versa. If you’re in a brick-and-mortar and can’t find an item, check the website for it and add it online. Don’t bother registering for outfits and blankets. If there is a particular swaddle or coming-home outfit you have your eye on, go for it. But beyond that, rest assured that you will receive plenty of teeny clothes and impossibly soft, pastel blankets—both before and after baby arrives. Think ahead. After this windfall, you’re on your own paying for all the accoutrements this kid will need. There’s no shame in adding a snowsuit or swimsuit sized a year (or two!) ahead, a toddler bed, or even a big kid booster car seat to your list. The scanning gun is addictive. To avoid registering for stuff that will lure gift-givers away from what you really need and/or want, make a list before you go, and stick to it. If you’re tempted to make an exception, sleep on it. You can always add it later online. You will be able to shop after the baby comes. Despite the horror stories you’ve heard about life as a new mom, you will leave the house. So please, don’t obsess over whether or not you’ve ticked off every single little thing you might possibly need. Registering for gift cards (or diapers, for that matter) is not tacky. It’s smart and will probably be a relief to a handful of your nearest and dearest. And you can use gift cards to acquire those necessary items that nobody will buy, no matter how gamely you talk them up in the “notes” section. Nursing pads, anyone?

Mommybites’ nanny boards only feature postings from nannies’ current families. You can rely on their recommendations. If you need a nanny or babysitter, visit Mommybites.com. 16

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

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& Kids This corner of the Internet can be a scary place, but there are ways to protect your kids. By Jacqueline Neber

t’s one of the biggest challenges facing parents today: How do you keep your kids safe online while still letting them explore? And YouTube is ground zero for this issue. In the last few years, we’ve heard about YouTube’s scandals—including Logan Paul filming a man who hanged himself in Japan or the debilitating work-lives of YouTube employees in the Philippines. At the top of the most-dangerous list is the inappropriate content readily available for, or even strategically aimed at, kids. Even though there is plenty of G-rated entertainment on YouTube, it’s no mystery why many parents are concerned about what their kids are viewing.

YouTube Kids allows parents to create profiles for their children, based on each child’s age, in an effort to limit inappropriate content.

Tackling the Tube There is no one-size-fits-all approach to dealing with this issue, says Jill Murphy, vice president and editor-in-chief of Common Sense Media. One of YouTube’s biggest problems is the inability to control a child’s search results. “Searching YouTube is essentially like searching Google,” Murphy says. “The results are not only looking to offer you accurate information on what you’re looking for, but also suggest some unrelated, but often tempting, things to watch. With so much content and so many options, it can be hard for any age to stay focused.” One helpful option for families is YouTube Kids—launched in 2015—which allows parents to create profiles for their children who are preschool-age through 12 years old. Each type of kids account is designed to offer certain content: creative, playful, and exploratory videos for ages 4 and younger; songs, cartoons, crafts, and more for ages 5-7; and gaming, science, music, and more for ages 8-12. YouTube admits it cannot filter out all inappropriate content or manually review all videos, but parents can turn off the search function or only allow their kids to see videos that Mom and Dad approve. Despite these filters, Murphy says, there is still no guarantee your child will be 100-percent protected from questionable content because YouTube doesn’t delineate age guidelines for content consumption. For example, related videos that appear on your child’s screen are based on what he gravitates toward, and there are no safety precautions for those. Younger kids tend to love room tours, vlogs, and “unboxing” videos—in which YouTubers 18

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

show off the products they receive from brands—but there is no way to guarantee these are age-appropriate. The best way to strive for safety, Murphy says, is to discuss content-viewing guidelines with your kids. Many parents overhear their child watching something they don’t like, run over, and demand it all be shut down, she says. A better approach is to encourage open conversation. “Sit down, watch a few videos with your kid, and have conversations about what is or isn’t appropriate. Start media literacy at a young age,” she says. “Include [your kid] in your boundary- and rule-setting because, otherwise, it’s quite enticing for a kid to [watch] what they’re not supposed to watch.” Another tip is to watch the videos by content creators who your kids like, and who might be posting things your child shouldn’t see, Murphy adds. Understand why your kid wants to watch these videos and continue having conversations about them. (It’s also worth noting that creator videos are basically infomercials, so you might want to discourage this consumerism.) Keep in mind that some content creators post for shock value, which can have serious consequences for your kids. Ariella Toeman, a mom of three in Westchester County, watches YouTube together with her 8- and 10-year-olds. The kids are not allowed to freely browse, but her 12-year-old has a computer at school and a phone is his hand and can access the Internet anytime, Toeman says.

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â&#x20AC;&#x153;We talk a lot about watching things that are appropriate. Once you see things, you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t take them back out of your memory. You canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t take back those visualsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;they stay with you forever,â&#x20AC;? she says. â&#x20AC;&#x153;So, we say, if things feel a little bit awkward, we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t watch them. If things make us feel bad, we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t watch them. If they feel weird, if we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t really understand them, theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not for us.â&#x20AC;?

Third Party Controls â&#x20AC;&#x153;I swear no one at Google has kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;but [YouTube] is the primary source of truth for kids,â&#x20AC;? says Doug Crawford, director of curriculum at Protect Young Eyes, an advocacy and education organization based in Michigan. (YouTube is a subsidiary of Google.) While YouTube offers a restricted mode (turned on in the userâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s profile) for parents to control what kids see, â&#x20AC;&#x153;YouTubeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s controls are configured differently on different devices, making it difficult for parents to always get it right, and then itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s hard to lock things in without some third-party parental control solution like CleanBrowsing, Mobicip, or Covenant Eyes,â&#x20AC;? he explains. While YouTube can be a great source of learning material, Crawford says parents need to keep in mind that its search function is inherently unsafe for kidsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;even if theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re watching kid-friendly content. Watching YouTube on restricted mode is the only method he recommends for kids. continued on next page

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continued from previous page

“Don’t tell me for a minute that YouTube doesn’t love kid content and will do everything it can to keep lots of it going, all while pushing the limits of child safety,” he says. Murphy agrees that YouTube doesn’t make it easy for parents to set parameters—so you need to get creative in figuring it out. She encourages parents to look to the parental controls on their kids’ devices before turning to third party systems. Plus, kids will always try figure out passwords and get around locks, Murphy points out. There are even TikTok channels dedicated to showing kids how to do so. For some kids, Murphy concedes, third-party parental controls might be necessary. For example, if your child has trouble distinguishing inappropriate content or if you suspect he might be the victim of cyberbullying, there is no shame in using third party parental controls or checking his search history. Set these boundaries if you need to, she continues, but try not to use them as a substitute for real conversations with your kids.

“

daily), according to internetlivestats.com. Protect Young Eyes’ surveys of high school students reveal that when given the option to choose their No. 1 online activity, teens choose YouTube over social media and gaming at a 3-to-1 ratio. Among tweens and teens, YouTube is the most-used online platform—not Instagram or Snapchat, as parents might believe. Murphy points out that because many parents didn’t have this technology growing up, they might be reluctant to let it into their kids’ lives. And parents’ lack of familiarity prevents them from understanding how important YouTube is as a social lifeline for kids. Despite all of this, YouTube doesn’t have to be an enemy. “All of their friends are talking about [YouTube]. Kids have devices at school. They’re going to watch it at school…so eliminating it without taking the time to talk about why something bothers you or hearing from your kid about why it’s appealing to them is not necessarily a path Common Sense [Media] would recommend,” Murphy says. “Teach your kids to live with it, rather than shutting it off.” Toeman, like many parents, acknowledges the struggle: “I’m trying to raise my children in an open-minded, realistic way that accepts technology as part of our lives, but doesn’t love it—which is a hard balance.”

Sit down, watch a few videos with your kid, and have conversations about what is or isn’t appropriate. Start media literacy at a young age.

YouTube Isn’t the Enemy—Necessarily Adults use Google to find what they need to know, while kids turn to YouTube, Crawford explains. The site is so pervasive that 82,248 videos are watched every second as of Jan. 15 (this stat is updated

”

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February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

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BigAppleParent 21

national children’s dental health month

Dental Health

by the

is the amount you—um, we mean the Tooth Fairy—leaves on average in our area, according to Visa’s Tooth Fairy Calculator (a free app in the iTunes app store), which tells you what other children in similar family situations are getting under their pillows.

Numbers

40%

of children ages 3-6 use too much toothpaste, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

The age at which it’s recommended that kids stop sucking their thumbs to avoid future oral health issues that will require orthodontics, according to Larissa Davids, D.D.S., orthodontist and owner of Rego Park Orthodontics in Queens

The age at which a pea-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste should first be used by a child, according to Marita Smith, D.D.S., a pediatric dentist at Smith’s Little Smiles in Pomona. For children younger than 3, a rice-sized amount of fluoridated toothpaste should be used.

is how often the American Dental Association recommends replacing your toothbrush—or more frequently if bristles are visibly matted or frayed.

is the number of times teeth should be brushed each day, according to the CDC. Before any teeth come in, wipe your baby’s gums with a soft clean cloth after the morning feeding and right before bed to wipe away bacteria—and get your child used to the habit, says Renuka Bijoor, D.D.S., who practices at Briarcliff Pediatric Dentistry in Briarcliff Manor. Once teeth start to come in, brush with a soft, small-bristled toothbrush.

44%

3 months

of U.S. children will have at least one cavity by kindergarten, according to Children’s Dental Health Project (cdhp.org).

6 months

is how long you or your child should go between dental visits, says Marc Adelberg, D.D.S., who practices at Adelberg Montalvan Pediatric Dentistry, which has four locations on Long Island.

The age at which your child should have her first dental exam

2 minutes

is the length of time teeth should be brushed for. You can either get a fun timer for your child, or look for an electric toothbrush, like Quip Kids (getquip.com), which has a timer built in.

( Looking for a pediatric dentist for your kids? Visit nymetroparents.com/health. ) 22

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

REACH. GROW. ACHIEVE.

Christopher Duggan

Rosalie O’Connor

Awaken your child’s potential through dance

Registration is now open for the Winter-Spring Semester BalletAcademyEast.com BALLET ACADEMY EAST 1651 Third Avenue, 3rd floor

New York, NY 10128

SINCE 1983

FRENCH LANGUAGE CAMPS in Montréal

French Language Camps for Canadian and international students located at McGill University. Residential and day camp options for Juniors (ages 7 to 10), Inters (ages 11 to 13) and Seniors (ages 14 to 17). Programmes include language study, age specific excursions (daily) and camp activities. Full day trips to Quebec City and Ottawa. There is more to learning a language then conjugating verbs, and MWS is a great example of that. Participants live and interact on the campus of McGill University, something that provides a wealth of first-class resources, but also a first-class experience. Storied, old, beautiful — environment is important, and McGill, unquestionably, sets the right tone in the heart of Montreal. The language program is intensive, picking up where other immersion programs fall short. Likewise, there is a keen desire to get participants out into the surrounding culture. That’s a bit of tourism, on one hand, and fun in and of itself. More importantly, it provides a window onto the rich, living culture that language, and bilingualism, is a key to experiencing. Yeats said that education shouldn’t be about filling a bucket, but lighting a fire. In terms of language learning, as well as independence and personal development, that’s what MWS does.

• French Language Camps located at McGill University. • Residential and day option • Residential and day camp options • Age from 7-17 years old • Programmes include interactive classes, daily excursion and activities • For campers ages 7 to 17Full • Located at Québec McGill University in the centre of Montréal and day trip to City and Ottawa

www.mwscamps.com | office@mwscamps.com www.mwscamps.com | ofﬁce@mwscamps.com

BigAppleParent 23

summer camp

Camp Countdown! A month-by-month timeline to get your child (and you!) ready for summer camp By Jess Michaels

t’s not too early to think about summer camp! If you are considering day or sleepaway camp, there are ways to research and plan for camp throughout the year. The American Camp Association, New York and New Jersey suggests the following month-by-month timeline with ways to plan for your child’s summer camp experience.

October and November Attend open houses. Many camps have open houses and fall festivals that provide opportunities to see the camp facilities and get a feel for the camp. It is also a good opportunity for you to get to know the camp director and ask questions about the camp philosophy and program while in the camp setting. Search for camp with your child. Take some time to look over a camp’s website, brochure, and video together. They will give you and your child a sense of what a particular camp is like. Most camp websites have photo slide shows, videos, virtual tours, and maps, which will give you a glimpse of the camp and the camp program. The more involved your child feels in the decision of choosing a camp, the more successful the camp experience will be. Look for camp early for savings. If you’ve already decided on a camp for your child, don’t wait to register. Many camps offer early-bird discounts. Registering early can be a real savings for parents—and it ensures your child won’t be shut out of the camp program he wants. Ask

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

the camp if it offers payment plans, which can make it easier to pay for camp. Some camps also allow you to prepay the camp season and will give you a significant discount.

December and January Talk to camp directors. Speaking with the camp director and asking some key questions is a good way to find out about a camp’s philosophy and see if it matches your own. Get to know the camp director through phone calls, correspondence, and in person. Make sure to give the director an accurate picture of your child and what your specific goals are for her camp experience. Make camp part of holidays. Instead of purchasing another toy for your child, make camp a holiday gift. Prepare your child for overnights. If you are considering sleepaway camp, schedule sleepovers with friends and relatives and make sure these overnights are successful. If your child feels panicked and needs to come home in the middle of the night, he may not be ready for sleepaway camp.

February and March Schedule home visits and attend camp fairs. These are both good ways to get to know a camp director and a camp program. Ask about the camp’s mission statement and what type of child is successful at camp. Camp fairs bring dozens of camps to a community and provide parents the opportunity to speak 1-on-1 with many different directors in one day. Often times, a camp director will come to you for a home visit, which allows you to get to know the director and for the director to get to know your family.

DISCOVER THE ULTIMATE SUMMER CAMP EXPERIENCE! 21 UNIQUE PROGRAMS for Campers, Ages 4–16, with:

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April and May Share positive messages. As camp approaches, talk to your child about the camp program and the activities she will be participating in. Let your child know you are confident in her ability to have a successful camp experience.

June Pack together. If your child is going to overnight camp, pack together. Your child will feel more secure if he knows what he is bringing to camp. Use this time talk with your child about how much fun camp is going to be. Mail a letter to camp. Send a letter to sleepaway camp, so your child has a letter the first day she is at camp. Let her know how much fun she is going to have at camp.

July and August Camp season is here!

Jess Michaels is the director of communications for the American Camp Association, New York and New Jersey. She believes every child should have a summer camp experience.

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Atlantic Acting School Chelsea atlanticactingschool.org

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February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

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BOLD Arts Brooklyn, Upper East Side, Upper West Side boldarts.com

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Camp Chart

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NORY Chelsea nory.co

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Dance

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The École Flatiron einy.org/summer-camp The Little Gym Scarsdale and Upper West Side thelittlegym.com

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Extended Hours

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SERVICES:

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SPANISH & MANDARIN CLASSES

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REGISTER:: www.renascentinstitute.org info@renascentinstitute.org Contact us: 917.805.1232 This program is sponsored by the Renascent Institute, a Non-Profit Organization 501(c)(3)

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Camps start June but we have School Break Camps in February! Register Today!

TRIBECA FAMILY THEATER WINTER 2020 Pete The Cat

Saturday, February 22

The Very Hungry Caterpillar

Saturday, February 29

Rosie Revere, Engineer & Friends

Saturday, March 14

General Admission: $30 per show. Enjoy $14 tickets as a 10Club member More info., tickets, call (212) 220 1460 www.tribecapac.org 199 Chambers St., New York, NY 28

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

Musical Excellence To Your Home! NYC’S TOP RATED IN-HOME MUSIC LESSONS (VIOLIN, CELLO, GUITAR AND MORE)

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R A D N E L CA

Y R A U R B FE

2 WANT US TO INCLUDE YOUR EVENT?

nymetroparents.com/submitevent UPDATED DAILY AT nymetroparents.com/calendar

nyccal@davlermedia.com

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Turn the page Kids Week

for details on

Ideas When You Need Them: Sign up for our FREE newsletter & never hear “I’m bored!” again. We email the top kids’ events every Thursday—just in time to make weekend plans!

nymetroparents.com/register 30 Editor’s Hot Tickets 31 Events Worth Leaving the City 32 Holiday Fun 33 Speial Needs, Get Active 34 Theater, Concerts, & Movies

36 Educational Activities 38 Little Makers 39 Fairs, Festivals, & Markets 40 Museums & Exhibits

EDITOR’S

T O H TICKETS

Our calendar is full of great ideas. First, here are the February events we consider can’t-miss—the ones we’re taking our own kids to. Consider it your cheat sheet to the best of what’s great this month!

The 144th Annual Westminster Kennel Club Dog Show

Winter Jam FREE WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 1, 11am-3pm WHERE: Rumsey Playfield at Central Park, enter at E. 72nd Street, Central Park AGES: All WHAT: Partners at Gore Mountain will blow a mini mountain of snow in the heart of Manhattan, creating an urban wonderland for all to enjoy! Experience live ice carving, snowshoeing, curling, ice bowling, flag football, puppet making, photo ops, and a heated New York Public Library Reading Room. WHY WE LOVE IT: Enter the drawing for a chance to get free “learn to ski” lessons! WANT TO GO? 212-360-8213. nycgovparks.org.

Big Apple Circus

HOTTICKET

WHEN: Through Feb. 2: see website for showtimes WHERE: Lincoln Center, 10 Lincoln Center Plaza, Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Catch the 42nd season of this world-renowned circus, celebrating the heartbeat, everyday delights, and spirit of New York City with astounding talent from around the world. WHY WE LOVE IT: All your classic circus delights in a climatecontrolled big top tent with tiered seating, perfect for families with young children. WANT TO GO? $35 and up; free for children younger than 3 on a parent’s lap. 212-721-6500. bigapplecircus.com.

Thunderbird American Indian Dancers in Concert! WHEN: Through Feb. 2: Fridays-Saturdays, 8pm; SaturdaysSundays, 3pm WHERE: Theater for the New City, 155 First Ave., East Village AGES: All WHAT: There will be dances, stories, and traditional music from Native Peoples of the Northeast, Southwest, and Great Plains regions. WHY WE LOVE IT: The event has become a treasured New York tradition for celebrating our diversity by honoring the culture of our first Americans. WANT TO GO? $15. 212-254-1109. theaterforthenewcity.net. 30

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Feb. 9-11, see website for details WHERE: Madison Square Garden, W. 33rd Street and Seventh Avenue, Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Watch canines compete in the world’s premiere dog show. WHY WE LOVE IT: Kids love picking a favorite breed or a favorite pup! WANT TO GO? $32 and up; children $15 and up. 212-213-3165. westminsterkennelclub.org.

Washington’s Birthday Ball WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 16, 1-3pm WHERE: Mount Vernon Hotel Museum and Garden, 421 E. 61st St., Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the birthday of our nation’s first president as New Yorkers did in the 19th century! WHY WE LOVE IT: Enjoy costumed dancers performing and teaching traditional country dances, as well as historic refreshments, including Washington cake. WANT TO GO? $15 adults; $10 children younger than 13 and members. 212-838-6878. mvhm.org.

Losar Family Day FREE WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 16, 12-4pm WHERE: Rubin Museum of Art, 150 W. 17th St., Flatiron AGES: All WHAT: Learn about traditional Himalayan New Year celebrations and this year’s zodiac animal, the creative and adaptable metal mouse. WHY WE LOVE IT: Get lost in a maze of auspicious symbols, make your own metal mouse, construct torma butter sculptures, and let your creativity go wild! WANT TO GO? 212-620-5000. rubinmuseum.org.

Kids Week WHEN: Feb. 15-22, daily, 10am-5pm WHERE: Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, W. 46th Street and 12th Avenue, Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Kids Week at the Intrepid Museum is an exciting, indoor,

family-friendly festival offering a variety of hands-on activities. Join all week long for live animal shows, pop-up planetarium shows, maker spaces, live performances, and so much more! WHY WE LOVE IT: Children will learn more about STEAM through activities and demonstrations designed to educate and inspire. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $33; $31 seniors; $24 children ages 5-12. 212-245-0072. intrepidmuseum.org.

Polar Bear Festival WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 23, 11am-4pm WHERE: The American Museum of Natural History, 200 Central Park W., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: This family-friendly festival dives into all things polar bear with activities, show-and-tell with museum collections, and an interactive theater performance. WHY WE LOVE IT: Scientists will be on hand to discuss conservation, polar bears’ predatory nature, and how humans have interacted with these amazing mammals through history. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $23; $13 children ages 2-12; free for children younger than 2. 212-769-5100. amnh.org.

‘Sesame Street LIVE! Let’s Party!’ WHEN: Feb. 14-23, see website for showtimes WHERE: The Theater at Madison Square Garden, Seventh Avenue at 32nd Street, Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Learn new songs and sing along to familiar favorites with Oscar and Cookie Monster; build a snowman with Elmo; flap your wings with Big Bird; marvel at Abby’s magic; be amazed when Super Grover flies; and move to the rhythm with Rosita! WHY WE LOVE IT: Opt for the pre-show experience and a meet and greet with Elmo and friends! WANT TO GO? $25 and up. 212-465-6741. theateratmsg.com.

Red Firecrackers: The Legend of the First Chinese New Year! FREE WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 8, 2:30pm WHERE: Landmark on Main Street, 232 Main St., Suite 1, Port Washington, Long Island AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Through dazzling props, colorful costumes, mesmerizing music, fantastic acrobatics and lively dance, Nai-Ni Dance Company showcases the legend and origins of the Chinese Lunar New Year traditions and celebration. WANT TO GO? 516-767-1384. landmarkonmainstreet.org.

Teatown Hudson River Eaglefest WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 8, 9am-4pm WHERE: Croton Point Park, 1 Croton Point Ave., Croton-onHudson, Westchester County AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the return of the bald eagle with live bird-ofprey shows, educators with viewing scopes observing wild eagles, children’s activities, food trucks, and more than 25 environmental organizations—all in heated tents! WANT TO GO? $25; $22 in advance; $15 children 6-11; $13 children 6-11 in advance. 914-762-2912. teatown.org.

Dinosaur World Live! WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 9, 1pm and 4pm WHERE: Bergen Performing Arts Center, 30 N. Van Brunt St., Englewood, NJ AGES: All WHAT: Meet a host of impressive creatures, including the tyrannosaurus rex, a triceratops, giraffatitan, microraptor and a segnosaurus! Optional special meet and greet after the show offers brave explorers the chance to make a new dinosaur friend. WANT TO GO? $15-$39. 201-227-1030. bergenpac.org.

The Royal Hannenford Circus

Events Worth Leaving

THE CITY FOR

WHEN: Feb. 15-17, Saturday-Sunday, 10am, 2pm, and 6pm; Monday, 10am and 2pm WHERE: Westchester County Center, 198 Central Ave., White Plains, Westchester County AGES: All WHAT: See a live traditional three-ring circus. WANT TO GO? $27-35. 914-995-4050. countycenter.biz

Chinese New Year WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 2, 1:30-4:30pm WHERE: Ward Melville Heritage Organization’s Educational and Cultural Center, 97 Main St., Stony Brook, Long Island AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the new year with festivities including an authentic Shaolin kung fu lion dance & kung fu demonstration, Manhattan taiko-taiko drumming, Long Island Chinese dance group Chinese dancing and singing, and craft activity for the kids! WANT TO GO? $12; $10 seniors and children younger than 12. 631-689-5888. stonybrookvillage.com.

BigAppleParent 31

Architecture Valentines WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 8, 10:30-11:45am WHERE: The Skyscraper Museum, 39 Battery Place, Lower Manhattan AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Create custom Valentines featuring skyscrapers and architectural features. RSVP to education@skyscraper.org. WANT TO GO? $5 per child; free for members. 212-945-6324. skyscraper.org.

21st Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade & Festival FREE

Holiday Fun Lunar New Year FREE WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 1, 2-3pm WHERE: Brookfield Place, 230 Vesey St., Financial District AGES: All WHAT: A dynamic lion parade led by lion dancers launches an afternoon filled with traditional Chinese dance, a martial arts demo, and theatrical players in full traditional makeup and regalia! WANT TO GO? 212-978-1673. bfplny.com.

Moon Over Manhattan! Celebrate Lunar New Year 2020 WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 1, 1-5pm WHERE: Asia Society, 725 Park Ave., Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the Year of the Rat! Asia Society rings in the Year of the Rat with performances and traditional craft activities inspired by Lunar New Year traditions across Asia, including a lion dance, kung fu demo, and musical performances. WANT TO GO? $12 nonmembers; $7 members; $5 children. 212-288-6400. asiasociety.org.

Lunar New Year Family Festival WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 1, 10am-1pm and 2pm-5pm WHERE: Museum of Chinese in America, 215 Centre St., Chinatown AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy zodiac arts and crafts, dance performances, snacks, and tales inspired by Chinese and Chinese American New Year’s traditions. WANT TO GO? $12; free for children younger than 3. 855-955-6622. mocanyc.org.

Chinese New Year Family Festival WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 2, 12-4pm WHERE: China Institute: Downtown, 100 Washington St., Financial District AGES: All WHAT: The festival opens with a lion dance followed by activities including dumpling making, lantern making, interactive storytelling, paper cutting, treats, crafts, and a puppet show. WANT TO GO? Free to enter; some events require $5-$20 fees. 212-744-8181. chinainstitute.org. 32

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 9, 1pm WHERE: Parade begins at Canal and Mott Streets, Chinatown AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate the Lunar New Year with a fun and festive parade! WANT TO GO? 917-660-2402. betterchinatown.com.

Valentine Making Workshop FREE WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 9, 11am WHERE: 6 River Terrace, Battery Park AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Make personalized, handmade cards for loved ones. Register by emailing registration@bpca.ny.gov. WANT TO GO? 212-267-9700. bpcparks.org.

Hearts and Crafts: Spinning Valentine’s Day Cards! FREE WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 13, 4:30pm WHERE: New York Public Library–Countee Cullen Branch, 104 W. 136th St., Harlem AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Make a unique card that’s an optical illusion! WANT TO GO? 212-491-2070. nypl.org.

The Amazing Valentine’s Day Scavenger Hunt WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 15, 2-5pm; 1:30pm registration WHERE: Slattery’s Midtown Pub, 8 E. 36th St., Midtown AGES: All WHAT: A series of clues leads you around the city performing physical and mental challenges along the way. WANT TO GO? $25 per person. 718-344-8962. pogoevents.com.

Saturday Family Workshops Masquerade: Venician Carnival FREE WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 22, 11am-12:30pm WHERE: 6 River Terrace, Battery Park AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Make your own character masks and watch a performance by the Kairos Italy Theater in English and Itailian. WANT TO GO? 212-267-9700. bpcparks.org.

My Funny Valentine Family Disco! WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 23, 1-5pm WHERE: The Venue, 2284 Adam Clayton Powell Jr. Blvd., Harlem AGES: 9 months to 7 years old WHAT: Children and their families will party over generational sounds and throwback dance steps. WANT TO GO? $12 general admission; $40 family of 4; $15 at door. 201-565-2564. kidsdancerevolution.com.

Holiday Express: All Aboard to Richard Scarry’s Busytown WHEN: Through Feb. 23: see website for schedule of events WHERE: New York Historical Society, 170 Central Park W., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: The installation showcases Scarry’s artwork and graphics! WANT TO GO? $22; $6 children ages 5-13; free for children younger than 5. 212-873-3400. nyhistory.org.

Fastelavn Workshop WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 29, 2pm WHERE: Scandinavia House, 58 Park Ave., Murray Hill AGES: 3-12 WHAT: This holiday includes dress-up, games, goodies, and songs. WANT TO GO? $12. 212-779-3587. scandinaviahouse.org.

Special Needs ‘Yeti, Set, Snow!’: Autism Friendly Show FREE WHEN: Friday, Feb. 7, 10:30-11:15am WHERE: Swedish Cottage Marionette Theatre in Central Park, W. 81st Street and Central Park West, Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: The story of a young girl named Widget, and her friend Twig, who encounter a yeti on the first snow day of the winter. This show will have reduced sound and the lights will be dimly kept on. WANT TO GO? 212-988-9093. cityparksfoundation.org.

‘Suds’

Get Active! Read-to-Skate StoryTime FREE WHEN: Through Feb. 22: Saturdays, 11:30am-12:30pm WHERE: Bryant Park, 40th Street between Fifth and Sixth Avenues, Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Read and sing along with Cali Co Cat and earn a free skate rental! WANT TO GO? 212-768-4242. bryantpark.org.

Toddlers in Rhythm FREE WHEN: Fridays, Feb. 7-28, 4pm WHERE: New York Public Library, 18 W. 53rd St., Midtown AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Explore the fundamentals of rhythm and movement, using the lens of African Dance. WANT TO GO? nypl.org.

National Girls & Women in Sports Day: She’s on Point! FREE WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 29, 11am-3pm WHERE: Chelsea Recreation Center, 430 W. 25th St., Chelsea AGES: All WHAT: Challenge yourself with sports like handball, basketball, water aerobics, and jumbo games, plus an obstacle course! WANT TO GO? 212-255-3705. nycgovparks.org.

Planet Play

WHEN: Feb. 1-9, Saturday-Sunday, 11am and 2pm WHERE: Clark Studio Theater, 165 W. 65th St., 7th Floor, Upper West Side AGES: 3-8 WHAT: This immersive, multisensory theatrical experience transforms the mundane task of going to the laundromat into an exhilarating adventure. SUDS is specially created for children with autism and other developmental disabilities. WANT TO GO? $25; $18 members. 212-875-5375. lincolncenter.org.

WHEN: Through April 24: select Saturdays, 9:30am WHERE: The Wetherby-Pembridge School, 7 E. 96th St., Upper East Side AGES: Newborn to 3 WHAT: These 45-minute sessions encourage young children to explore the world around them through songs, music, and movement in a wonderful sensory experience. WANT TO GO? $15 per person. 646-569-5742. chickenshed.org.

‘Discoveries: My America’

WHEN: Through June 27: Saturdays, 1pm WHERE: Sugar Hill Children’s Museum of Art & Storytelling, 898 St. Nicholas Ave., Harlem AGES: All WHAT: Move your body, make music, and be a part of the story! WANT TO GO? $7 adults; $4 children ages 9-17; free for children younger than 9. 212-335-0004. sugarhillmuseum.org.

WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 16, 11am-12:30pm WHERE: Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1000 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 5-17 WHAT: A workshop for children with learning or developmental disabilities and accompanying friends and family. Reservations required. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $25 adults; free for children younger than 13. 212-535-7710. metmuseum.org.

Showtime Saturdays with Alexander

New York City Ballet Workshop for Children with Autism

Second Saturdays Trailwork Party + Bike Share at Highbridge Bike Park FREE

WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 8 and May 23, 1pm WHERE: Samuel B & David Rose Building, 7th Floor, 165 W. 65th Street between Broadway and Amsterdam, Upper West Side AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Join the artists of New York City Ballet in this workshop designed for children with autism and developmental disabilities. WANT TO GO? 212-870-5636. nycballet.com.

WHEN: Through Sept. 10: second Saturday of each month, 10am-3pm WHERE: Highbridge Park, W. 174th Street and Amsterdam Avenue, Washington Heights/Bronx AGES: All WHAT: Learn what it takes to build, maintain, and ride the most progressive urban bike park in America. WANT TO GO? nycgovparks.org. BigAppleParent 33

‘Princess Petunia & The Dragon’ WHEN: Feb. 8-9, Saturday-Sunday, 11am and 1pm WHERE: 14th Street Y, 344 E. 14th St., East Village AGES: 3 and older WHAT: It’s up to Princess Petunia to defeat bullies, help wizards, ride a dragon and save the day. This medieval adventure includes lots of laughter and a cast of hilarious characters. WANT TO GO? $12 general admission; family 4-pack $30. 212-780-0800. 14streety.org.

‘Packrat’

Theater, Concerts, & Movies

WHEN: Through Feb. 14: Friday-Saturday, 7:30pm WHERE: Dixon Place, 161A Chrystie St., Lower East Side AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Inspired by the classic novel Watership Down, Packrat is a puppet-forward new multi-media play that contemplates humanity’s relationship with the natural world. WANT TO GO? $19 in advance; $22 at the door. 212-219-0736. dixonplace.org.

Just Kidding: ‘David Darwin: One Man Sideshow’

Just Kidding: ‘Goldilocks And The Three Bears’

WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 1, 11am WHERE: Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway, Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: A raucous morning of whip cracking, plate spinning, lassoing, unicycling, impossible contortions, and more! WANT TO GO? $17. 212-864-5400. symphonyspace.org.

‘The Princess and the Pea’ WHEN: Feb. 1-2, Saturday-Sunday, 2pm WHERE: Galli Theater, 74 Warren St., New York AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Prince Prince is looking for a princess. After a failed attempt at speed dating, the right woman shows up at his door. Only the Royal Pea Test will reveal if she is a true princess. WANT TO GO? $20 adults; $15 children. 212-731-0668. gallitheaternyc.com.

‘The Three Little Pigs’ WHEN: Feb. 1-2, Saturday-Sunday, 11am and 1pm WHERE: 14th Street Y, 344 E. 14th St., East Village AGES: 3 and older WHAT: The classic tale retold with hilarious puppet pigs and a silly wolf–with an emphasis on ‘being prepared’. WANT TO GO? $12; family 4-pack $30. 212-780-0800. 14streety.org.

Just Kidding: ‘Doktor Kaboom: Look Out! Science Is Coming!’ WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 8, 11am and 2pm WHERE: Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway, Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Sporting chrome goggles, orange lab coat, motorcycle boots, and wicked cool hair, Doktor Kaboom travels the world, thrilling adults and children alike with an explosive comedic style that is guaranteed to please. WANT TO GO? $17. 212-864-5400. symphonyspace.org. 34

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 15, 11am and 2pm WHERE: Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway, Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Hand-carved wooden marionettes bring this classic tale to life, as a family of Alaskan bears encounter a golden-haired trespasser, who learns precious lessons about respect and kindness. WANT TO GO? $17. 212-864-5400. symphonyspace.org.

‘The Little Mermaid’ WHEN: Feb. 8-16, Saturday-Sunday, 2pm WHERE: Galli Theater, 74 Warren St., Tribeca AGES: 3-12 WHAT: The little mermaid falls in love with a prince on land when she saves him from a storm, but a deal she makes with a sea witch makes things more difficult than she expected. WANT TO GO? $20 adults; $15 children. 212-731-0668. gallitheaternyc.com.

‘The Case of the Missing Dinosaur’ WHEN: Feb. 15-16, Saturday-Sunday, 11am and 1pm WHERE: 14th Street Y, 344 E. 14th St., East Village AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Join detective Mystery Max as he searches for clues to find the missing dinosaur. The audience will sing songs and call out to help Max and solve the case. WANT TO GO? $12 general admission; family 4-pack $30. 212780-0800. 14streety.org.

‘Who Are The Brave: Music in Honor of Presidents’ Day’ WHEN: Monday, Feb. 17, 7pm WHERE: Stern Auditorium/Perelman Stage, Carnegie Hall, 881 Seventh Ave., Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate Presidents’ Day with a program of patriotic and original works from American composers and conductors. WANT TO GO? $20 and up. 212-707-8566. carnegiehall.org.

‘Pete the Cat’ WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 22, 11am WHERE: BMCC Tribeca Performing Arts Center, 199 Chambers St., Tribeca AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Join Jimmy and Pete on an adventure of friendship, to Paris and back in a VW Bus! Based on the series by Kimberly and James Dean. WANT TO GO? $30. 212-220-1460. tribecapac.org.

‘The Gustafer Yellowgold Show’ WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 22, 11am WHERE: Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway at 95th Street, Upper West Side AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Morgan Taylor returns with his full band, his Grammynominated music, and full-screen animation centered around a character who comes from the Sun. WANT TO GO? $14-17. 212-864-5400. symphonyspace.org.

Learn and Grow This summer aT The windward schooL

The windward school summer Program

is designed for all students (public or private school) entering Grades 2-9 who want to improve their skills in the areas of reading, writing, math, science, and study and organizational skills. All classes are taught by Windward instructors who have been trained in our research-validated multisensory approach. The program is offered at Windward’s Westchester and Manhattan campuses.

July 6 - July 31, 2020 half-day and Full-day sessions available space is Limited! register by sunday, may 31, 2020

‘Esther Saves the Day!’ WHEN: Feb. 22-23, Saturday-Sunday, 11am and 1pm WHERE: 14th Street Y, 344 E. 14th St., East Village AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Beauty contests, a forgetful king, and a lottery of doom comprise the traditional story of Purim, based on the Book of Esther. ACTIVITIES EVENTS MORE WANT TO GO? $12; family 4-pack $30. 212-780-0800. 14streety.org.

‘Riddle Of The Trilobites’ WHEN: Feb. 7-23, see website for days and times WHERE: New Victory Theater, 209 W. 42nd St., Midtown AGES: 5 and older WHAT: This underwater adventure shows us how we can leave our mark on the world when we dare to be brave. WANT TO GO? $17 and up. 646-223-3010. newvictory.org.

Orli Shaham’s Bach Yard: ‘Winter Winds’ WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 23, 10:30am WHERE: Merkin Hall at Kaufman Music Center, 129 W. 67th St., Upper West Side AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Live ensemble performances are combined with storytelling, costumed musicians, and a host of hands-on activities. WANT TO GO? $20. 212-501-3330. kaufmanmusiccenter.org.

Join

NYMetroParents

‘The Brave Little Tailor’ Get advance notice

ashley di salvo co-director (westchester) westchestersummer@ thewindwardschool.org (914) 949-6968, ext. 4124

Tanya ehrlich co-director (manhattan) manhattansummer@ thewindwardschool.org (914) 949-6968, ext. 1113

JoinDANCE NYC GLOBAL

NYMetroParents We offer dance classes

AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM

for kids, teens and Get advance notice on activities, adults right in your neighborhood! participate group discussions FREE in TRIAL DANCE CLASS! ALL AGES, ALL LEVELS! and receive special notices.

DROP-INS ARE WELCOME!

MuLTIpLE CLASS AND SIBLING DISCOuNTS AvAILABLE

GLOBALDANCENYC.COM www.facebook.com/nymetroparents 106 E 86th Street, 3rd Fl • New York, NY 10028 646-831-9727

on activities,

WHEN: Feb. 22-29, Saturdays-Sundays, 2pm participate in group discussions WHERE: Galli Theater, 74 Warren St., Tribeca and3-12 receive special notices. AGES: WHAT: The hero in this story is armed with wit, cunning, and a sense of humor, and he conquers all before him. WANT TO GO? $20 adults; $15 children. 212-731-0668. www.facebook.com/nymetroparents gallitheaternyc.com.

‘How to Eat Like a Child’ and OtherEVENTS Lessons in MORE Not Being ACTIVITIES a Grown-Up WHEN: Feb. 15-March 8, see website for schedule WHERE: TADA! Youth Theater, 15 W. 28th St., Chelsea

Join

www.thewindwardschool.org/summer

Join

NYMetroParents Get advance notice on activities, participate in group discussions and receive special notices.

www.facebook.com/nymetroparents BigAppleParent 35

Con Edison Family Day WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 8, 12-2pm WHERE: Morris-Jumel Mansion, 65 Jumel Terrace, Harlem AGES: All WHAT: Explore the period rooms and create Colonial crafts. Draw connections between the past and present by comparing colonial life, tools, and toys with your contemporary world. WANT TO GO? Free with admission: $10 adults; free for children younger than $13. 212-923-8008. morrisjumel.org.

2020 Black Lives Matter Teen Conference + Teen Night Open Mic FREE

Educational Activities Richard Scarry’s ‘Best Nursery Tales Ever’ WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 2, 11:30am WHERE: DiMenna Children’s History Museum at New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park W., Upper West Side AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Explore Richard Scarry’s whimsical and charming world. Afterward, build a town and play with some Busytown toys. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $22 adults; $6 children ages 5-13; free for children younger than 5. 212-8733400. nyhistory.org.

Let It Snow: Storytime and Activity FREE WHEN: Monday, Feb. 3, 4pm WHERE: New York Public Library–Webster Library, 1465 York Ave., Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy some snow stories, snow making, and a snowball fight! WANT TO GO? 212-288-5049. nypl.org.

Wacky Wednesdays: Moon Phase Viewers FREE WHEN: Wednesday, Feb. 5, 4:30pm WHERE: New York Public Library–Countee Cullen Branch, 104 W. 136th St., Harlem AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Create your own moon phase viewers, portable discs that show how the moon’s appearance changes throughout the year. WANT TO GO? 212-491-2070. nypl.org.

Family Day: I Love NYC WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 8, 11am-1pm and 2-4pm WHERE: Center for Architecture, 536 LaGuardia Place, Greenwich Village AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Look at the various designs for this public art, then, as a family, design and build your own 3-D Valentine for NYC! WANT TO GO? $12 per child; $6 per adult. 212-358-6133. centerforarchitecture.org. 36

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 8, 10am-10pm; 9am registration WHERE: Schomburg Center for Research in Black Culture, 515 Malcolm X Blvd., Central Harlem AGES: 13-17 WHAT: The day will include activist teach-ins, youth-led discussions, teen performances, nteractive workshops, and a teen open mic! WANT TO GO? 917-275-6975. nypl.org.

Amazing Lizards FREE WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 8, 3pm WHERE: New York Public Library, 476 Fifth Ave., Midtown AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Meet several live lizards from around the world! WANT TO GO? 917-275-6975. nypl.org.

Richard Scarry’s ‘Cars and Trucks and Things that Go’ WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 9, 11:30am WHERE: DiMenna Children’s History Museum at New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park W., Upper West Side AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Read Scarry’s book, then create your own cars and trucks! WANT TO GO? Free with admission: $22 adults; $6 children ages 5-13; free for children younger than 5. 212-873-3400. nyhistory.org.

Wildlife at the Library FREE WHEN: Tuesday, Feb. 11, 4pm WHERE: New York Public Library, 1465 York Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Andrew Simmons will introduce you to a golden eagle, barn owl, Burmese and ball pythons, an alligator, and more. WANT TO GO? 212-288-5049. nypl.org.

STEM: Learning About Architecture FREE WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 13, 2pm WHERE: New York Public Library, 222 E. 79th St., Upper East Side AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Venture off into the fun exciting world of architecture! WANT TO GO? nypl.org.

Japanese Storytime for Little Ones FREE WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 16, 11am WHERE: New York Public Library, 476 Fifth Ave., Midtown AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Come in and join us for stories, songs, and rhymes. WANT TO GO? 917-275-6975. nypl.org.

Winter Break History Day WHEN: Feb. 18-21, daily, 9am-3pm WHERE: Mount Vernon Hotel Museum & Garden, 421 E. 61st St., Upper East Side AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Travel back in time and experience life in 19th-century NYC! WANT TO GO? $60 per day. 212-838-6878. brownpapertickets.com.

The Art of Storytelling Through the Wonder of Books FREE WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 22, 11am-3pm WHERE: Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian, 1 Bowling Green, Financial District AGES: All WHAT: Join for crafts, readings, books signings, and more. WANT TO GO? 212-514-3700. americanindian.si.edu.

Winter Break: STEM FREE

Join Us For an Imaginative, Empowering Theatrical and Therapeutic Journey July 13 - August 21

Mon. - Fri. 10 AM - 1 PM A Program Developed by seasoned professionals in Speech-Language Therapy and Educational Theatre For details on this workshop series or our therapy center visit www.chattychild.com or call 347.491.4451.

325 Broadway - Suite 403 New York, NY 10007

WHEN: Feb. 18-22, Tuesday-Thursday and Saturday, 1pm WHERE: New York Public Library–Webster Library, 1465 York Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Spend your winter break creating STEM projects. WANT TO GO? 212-288-5049. nypl.org.

Bilingual Birdies Spanish Series FREE WHEN: Feb. 6-27, Thursdays, 11am WHERE: The Morningside Heights Branch of The New York Public Library, 2900 Broadway, Morningside Heights AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Go on a magical journey to learn words in Spanish! WANT TO GO? 212-866-3970. assembly.state.ny.us.

Family Workshop: African Dance WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 29, 12pm and 4:30pm WHERE: New Victory Theater, 209 W. 42nd St., Midtown AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Experience African dance, from drumming to movement! WANT TO GO? $19. 646-223-3010. newvictory.org.

Coquí Club FREE WHEN: Through May 6: first Wednesday and Saturday of each month, 9:30am and 11am WHERE: El Museo Del Barrio, 1230 Fifth Ave., East Harlem AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Explore the museum with time for play, crafts, and more. WANT TO GO? 212-831-7272. elmuseo.org.

Mandarin Immersion Summer Camp Program at China Institute 40 Rector Street, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10006

AMNH Presents: Volcanoes: The Fires of Creation WHEN: Through July 5: daily, 10:30am-4:30pm WHERE: American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West at 79th Street, Upper West Side AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Discover how volcanoes have created extraordinary ecosystems and wildlife habitats. WANT TO GO? $28 adult; $16.50 children ages 2-12; $22.50 seniors and students. 212-769-5100. amnh.org.

chinainstitute.org/SummerCamp 212-744-8181 ext. 143

BigAppleParent 37

Colorful Suminagashi: Paper Marbling Designs WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 9, 2:30-4pm WHERE: Japan Society, 333 E. 47th St., Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Explore the unpredictability of suminagashi or floating ink. WANT TO GO? $15; free for children younger than 3. 212-832-1155. japansociety.org.

MOCACREATE: What’s Cookin?

Little Makers Workshop With The Hans Christian Andersen Storytellers WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 1, 11am WHERE: Scandinavia House, 58 Park Ave., Murray Hill AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Kids will love tales of tricky trolls and a plucky duckling! Then have fun creating a Ugly Ducking/Splendid Swan puppet. WANT TO GO? $12. 212-779-3587. scandinaviahouse.org.

Clay Self-Portraits with Artist-in-Residence Natalia Arbelaez WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 2, 10am-1pm WHERE: Museum of Arts and Design, 2 Columbus Circle, Hell’s Kitchen AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Work in a 7,000-year-old pre-Columbian-style of pottery to create a mythical self-portrait out of clay. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $18; free for children younger than 19. 212-299-7777. madmuseum.org.

A FivePointz of Our Own WHEN: Feb. 1-3, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-5pm; Monday, 12-5pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Soho AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Kids can help recreate the iconic graffiti of Queens’s 5 Pointz. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $13; free for children younger than 1. 212-274-0986. cmany.org.

Spring Festival & Chinese Zodiac Paper Cutting FREE WHEN: Monday, Feb. 3, 4:30pm WHERE: Roosevelt Island Library, 524 Main St., Roosevelt Island AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Teens will learn more about their animal, then cut and design red paper rat cutouts for good luck. WANT TO GO? 212-308-6243. nypl.org.

Black History Month: Creating Silhouettes FREE WHEN: Monday, Feb. 3, 4:30pm WHERE: New York Public Library–Countee Cullen Branch, 104 W. 136th St., Harlem AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Learn about silhouette making, then sit for your own portrait. WANT TO GO? 212-491-2070. nypl.org. 38

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 15, 2-5pm WHERE: Museum of Chinese in America, 215 Centre St., Chinatown AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Dream up and draw menu of family recipes. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $12; $8 for children, students, and seniors; free for children younger than 2. 855-9556622. mocanyc.org.

Family Workshop: Prehistoric Puppets WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 15, 10am and 2:30pm WHERE: New Victory Theater, 209 W. 42nd St., Midtown AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Invent your own unique prehistoric puppet! WANT TO GO? $19. 646-223-3010. newvictory.org.

Medieval Arts Children’s Workshop WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 22, 10am-12pm WHERE: Cathedral of Saint John the Divine, 1047 Amsterdam Ave., Upper West Side AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Create illuminated letters, design gargoyles, and more! WANT TO GO? $10 per child. 212-316-7530. stjohndivine.org.

Power Pigeon Puppet Pals WHEN: Feb. 14-23, Friday-Sunday, 10am-1pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Color and design a finger puppet of your favorite super pigeon! WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $15; free for children younger than 1. 212-721-1223. cmom.org.

Zap’s Memory Adventure Comic Book WHEN: Feb. 14-23, Friday-Sunday, 3-3:45pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Draw your own comic book. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $15; free for children younger than 1. 212-721-1223. cmom.org.

Gear Up with Zip, Zap, and Zoom WHEN: Feb. 15-23, Saturday-Sunday, 2:30-5pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Create, tinker, and ideate your own super powered gadgets! WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $15; free for children younger than 1. 212-721-1223. cmom.org.

openHOUSES

Fairs, Festivals, & Markets

Asphalt Green Summer Day Camp

ProHEALTH Pediatric Urgent Care Community Day FREE WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 1, 10am-4pm WHERE: ProHEALTH Pediatric Urgent Care, 1601 Third Ave., Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: Free screenings, giveaways, and activities for kids! WANT TO GO? 646-692-6272. prohealthcare.com.

Lunar New Year Festival: Year of the Rat WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 1, 11am-5pm WHERE: Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1000 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy performances, interactive gallery activities, and artistled workshops. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $25 adults; $12 students; free for children younger than 12. 212-535-7710. metmuseum.org.

Frost Fest FREE WHEN: Through Feb. 2: see website for days and times WHERE: Bryant Park, 40th Street between Fifth and Sixth avenues, Midtown AGES: All WHAT: A winter celebration with live entertainment, bumper cars on ice, an igloo experience, and more! WANT TO GO? 212-768-4242. bryantpark.org.

Upper East Side and Battery Park City Upper East Side, 555 E. 90th St., Upper East Side 212-298-7900 Battery Park City 212 North End Ave. (at Murray Street) 212-298-2900 asphaltgreen.org camps@asphaltgreen.org Meet the team and learn about Asphalt Green Summer Day Camp 2020! Sunday, Feb. 9, from 11am-12pm, 555 East 90 St., 212-298-7900. Please RSVP.

Ballet Academy East

1651 Third Ave., Upper East Side 212-410-9140 balletacademyeast.com Have fun and learn about Summerdance at an open house on March 1 from 4-5pm.

Chelsea Piers Sports and Entertainment Complex

West 23rd Street and Hudson River Park Field House Registration Desk: 212-336-6500 x6520 Camps: 212336-6846 chelseapiers.com/youth, chelseapiers. com/camp

Children ages 3–16 can partake in a complimentary 30-minute group class at our Sky Rink Open House on Feb. 22 from 12:30–2pm.

Dwight School

291 Central Park West, Upper West Side 212-724-6360 dwight.edu/admissions to register for an open house admissions@dwight.edu Join us for an open house for ages 4-5 on March 7 from 10am-1pm, at 144 Riverside Blvd., and on March 6 from 4-7pm for ages 6-12 at 2116 First Ave.

International Academy of New York

4 E. 90th St., Upper East Side 212-641-0260 ianyc.org; info@ianyc.org Call to schedule a tour to learn more about our multi-cultural, diverse school and our bilingual program.

JCC Manhattan Summer Camps Camp Settoga

646-505-4430 campsettoga.org Visit campsettoga.org to schedule your tour today!

7th Annual Masters Agility Championship at Westminster WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 8, see website for details WHERE: Pier 94, 711 12th Ave. at 55th Street & West Side Highway, Midtown AGES: All WHAT: The country’s greatest canine athletes face a challenging obstacle course of jumps, tunnels, weave poles, and more in a timed competition. WANT TO GO? $22 and up adults; $10 and up children. 212-2133165. westminsterkennelclub.org.

Indonesian Cultural Festival WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 9, 10am-5pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Soho AGES: All WHAT: Join us for a celebration of Indonesian culture! CMA is partnering with Gamelan Dharma Swara to present performances and interactive workshops inspired by Indonesia. WANT TO GO? $13. 212-274-0986. cmany.org.

Summer Fun 2020 German and Spanish language immersion for preschoolers and school-age children Open to students from other schools www.pusteblumenyc.org

Connect with us facebook.com/nymetroparents

@nymetroparents

@NYMetroParents

BigAppleParent 39

Presidents’ Day: Cacao with the Founders WHEN: Monday, Feb. 17, 12-4pm WHERE: DiMenna Children’s History Museum at New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park W., Upper West Side AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Learn about colonial hot chocolate with President George Washington and First Lady Martha Washington. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $22 adults; $6 children ages 5-13; free for children younger than 5. 212-8733400. nyhistory.org.

Art See: Photos from the Jewish Daily Forward

Museums & Exhibits Meet the Scientist: James Napoli on Velociraptors

WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 20, 11am-12:30pm WHERE: Museum at Eldridge Street, 12 Eldridge St., Lower East Side AGES: All WHAT: A program that looks closely at selections from the exhibit. WANT TO GO? $15 adults; $10 children; free for children younger than 5. 212-219-0302. eldridgestreet.org.

WHEN: Saturday, Feb. 1, 2:15pm, 3pm, and 3:45pm WHERE: The American Museum of Natural History, 200 Central Park W., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Join Dr. James Napoli as he shares his research on how the velociraptor became the fierce and brainy predator we know and love. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $23; $13 children ages 2-12; free for children younger than 2. 212-769-5100. amnh.org.

Drop In On Design–School Break Week

Creative Play: Setsubun (Bean Throwing)

Superpowered Simon Says

WHEN: Sunday, Feb. 9, 1pm WHERE: Japan Society, 333 E. 47th St., Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Families will join in one of the favorite traditions of Japanese children–welcoming spring by scaring away ogres–by throwing soybeans at them! WANT TO GO? $12; free for children younger than 3. 212-8321155. japansociety.org.

WHEN: Feb. 14-23, Friday-Sunday, 4-4:15pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Power pose your way through Simon Says. Build super brain and body skills with a bit of practice, focus, and a few laughs! WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $15; free for children younger than 1. 212-721-1223. cmom.org.

Love Me Hug Me Pop Up

February School Vacation Week

WHEN: Through Feb. 10: Sundays-Thursdays, 11am-7pm, FridaysSaturdays: 11am-8pm WHERE: Love Me Hug Me, 139 Wooster St., Soho AGES: 3 and older WHAT: A new, interactive exhibit for participants to experience a touching, immersive love story. It tells the story of a couple whose love memory is gradually stolen by Alzheimer’s disease. WANT TO GO? $28 adults; $24 students; $12 children younger than 12. 646-480-4849. lovemehugmepopup.com.

WHEN: Feb. 15-23, daily, 1-3pm WHERE: DiMenna Children’s History Museum at New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park W., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Create rock & roll-inspired art projects to celebrate the exhibit Bill Graham and the Rock & Roll Revolution. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $22 adults; $6 children ages 5-13; free for children younger than 5. 212-8733400. nyhistory.org.

Family Art Workshops: Fantastic Fibers FREE

Start with Art at The Met

WHEN: Saturday-Sunday, Feb 1-2 and Feb. 15-16, 10:30am and 2pm WHERE: The Museum of Modern Art, 11 W. 53rd St., Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Take inspiration from the marvelous materials and methods of artist Anni Albers as you experiment with line, shape, and color in this tactile textile workshop. WANT TO GO? 212-708-9805. moma.org.

WHEN: Through Feb. 27: select Thursdays, 3:30-4:30pm; select Saturdays, 11am-12pm WHERE: Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1000 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3-6 WHAT: Enjoy stories, sketching, and other gallery activities. WANT TO GO? Free with museum admission: $25 adults; free for children younger than 13. 212-535-7710. metmuseum.org.

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Feb. 17-21, daily, 11am-3pm WHERE: Cooper Hewitt, Smithsonian Design Museum, 2 E. 91 St., Upper East Side AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Activities including screenprinting and printmaking. WANT TO GO? Free for children; adults need separate museum ticket: $12. 212-849-8400. cooperhewitt.org.

D owntown Day Camp MAKING MEMORIES SINCE 1992

JUNIORS:

ag e s

4 - 8 || S E N I O R S :

ag e s

9-13

ATHLETICS || AQUATICS || ARTS || STEM THE COMPLETE CAMP EXPERIENCE

FUN STEM ACTIVITIES

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BigAppleParent 41

Courtesy Howe Caverns

outing

Day Trip, Anyone? 5 family weekend getaways that aren’t too far from home Go spelunking at Howe Caverns in Cobleskill in Schoharie County for a look at a 6-million-year-old cave in upstate New York.

ome say you never know what you’ll find in your own backyard. The saying holds true for our proverbial backyard, where there is much to explore and discover with the family. Since many schools in our area have a long weekend for Presidents Day (or even a week off of school!), we’ve put together a list of some worthy attractions just outside your local radius.

Baseball Hall of Fame 25 Main St., Cooperstown, NY 888-425-5633 • baseballhall.org Hours: Daily, 9am-5pm; Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day: daily, 9am-9pm Admission: $25; $20 seniors ages 65 and older; $15 children ages 7-12; free for children ages 6 and younger At this mecca for fans of the great American pastime, you can relive the history of Babe Ruth, Hank Aaron, and women in baseball, and take in the new display of historic baseball cards. Kids can visit the Sandlot Kids’ Clubhouse, an interactive educational area devoted to Little Leaguers who want to learn about the big league. There are also special events throughout the summer, including the Hall of Fame Induction Weekend.

Nearby Attractions • Just 3 miles outside Cooperstown is the Fly Creek Cider Mill & Orchard, where you can take a tour, feed the ducks and geese on the pond, and relax while the kids play in Tractorland. • Take the 8-mile drive out of town to Glimmerglass State Park, where you’ll find beaches, picnic areas, camping sites, hiking, and nature trails. 42

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

Crayola Experience 30 Centre Square, Easton, PA 610-515-8000 • crayolaexperience.com/easton Hours: Monday-Friday, 10am-4pm; Saturday-Sunday, 10am-6pm Admission: $22.99 ($19.99 online); free for children 2 and younger Discover the magic of color with 25 attractions at Crayola Experience. Kids can explore four floors of family fun to create custom crayons and markers, bring their drawings to life on the big screen, star in their own coloring pages, paint with melted wax, or “doodle in the dark” on an interactive floor. Grab a colorful concoction from Café Crayola and take home one-of-akind souvenirs from the official Crayola Store.

Nearby Attractions • Take a tour of ancient underground caverns, then come back to the surface to picnic, hike the nature trails, and shop for gemstones at Lost River Caverns.

Dinosaur State Park 400 West St., Rocky Hill, CT 860-529-8423 • dinosaurstatepark.org Hours: Tuesday-Sunday, 9am-4:30pm Admission (for exhibit center): $6; $2 children ages 6-12; free for children 5 and younger Pack your sunscreen for a day of outdoor adventure. For a small fee, visitors can mine for gems and fossils or make their own cast of a dinosaur footprint. The Discovery Room includes a Connecticut Geologic Treasures exhibit, Life Through Time Fossil exhibit, and more.

Nearby Attractions • Visit The Children’s Museum for hands-on science and nature exhibits, a wildlife sanctuary, movie screenings, and planetarium shows. • Soar over to the New England Air Museum to learn about the science and history of flight, take a cockpit tour of a vintage aircraft, virtually fly an aircraft, and view more than 65 aircrafts. • See one of the largest collections of antique carousel pieces at The New England Carousel Museum, then take a spin on the Bushnell Park Carousel.

Howe Caverns 255 Discovery Drive, Cobleskill, NY 518-296-8900 • howecaverns.com Hours: Friday-Sunday, 10am-3pm Traditional Tour: A 90-minute walking tour with boat ride: $25; $21 children ages 12-15; $13 children ages 5-11. Family Flashlight Tour: A 2-hour tour with flashlights and headlamps offered on Sunday evenings (for ages 5 and older): $45; reservations required. Lantern Tour: A 2-hour tour with lanterns on Friday and Saturday evenings (for ages 16 and older): $45; reservations required. Signature Rock Discovery Tour: A 2½-hour spelunking tour that reveals a portion of the cave that was closed for more than 100 years (for ages 14 and older): $155; reservations required. Journey more than 150 feet below the Earth’s surface, where you’ll take a tour of an underground cavern 6 million years in the making. You’ll see stalactites and stalagmites, limestone formations, and the underground Lake of Venus. Above ground, Howe High Adventure activities include a four-tower zip line, ropes course, rock wall, air jumper, and gem mine at the Howe Caverns Mining Company. The H2OGO Ball gets visitors rolling down a hill in a 12-foot inflatable ball filled with 5 gallons of water. With a café and motel on premises, visitors can turn their day trip into a weekend getaway.

Please Touch Museum 4231 Avenue of the Republic, Philadelphia, PA 215-581-3181 • pleasetouchmuseum.org Hours: Monday-Saturday, 9am-5pm; Sunday, 11am-5pm Admission: $19.95; $16 parking Explore two floors of interactive exhibit zones including Roadside Attractions, Wonderland, River Adventures, and the Imagination Playground. The museum encourages touching the exhibits as a means of learning. Other programs include story time, music and movement, STEM activities, and theatrical experiences designed with tiny tots in mind.

Great Speakers. Great Learning. Helping Young Children Learn & Grow

Over 100 Speakers More than 80 Conference Sessions Full Day & Half Day Workshops 40 Exhibitors & Over 1000 Attendees

Nearby Attractions • Visit The Betsy Ross House to experience colonial Philadelphia and “meet” the woman who sewed the first American flag. • The Franklin Institute hosts daily exhibits, shows, and 2020_YCE_NYMP_1.6th ad.v1.indd 1 LOOKING FOR demonstrations in the spirit of Benjamin Franklin’s passion for science and technology. • Stop by the Philadelphia Zoo to meet nearly 1,300 animals, ride the carousel or PZ Express train, take a ride on the Zooballoon, and steer a swan boat. • Take a tour of Independence Hall and the Liberty Bell at Independence National Historic Park.

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BigAppleParent 43

black history month

Discovering Diversity 9 books for kids that explore significant moments and important figures in black history By Kirsten Clodfelter

o matter how big they get, reading with my kids remains one of my favorite activities. And while reading together helps us feel close, it’s also a valuable tool for starting big conversations. Sometimes books provide a mirror, and we see ourselves reflected in a story’s pages. Other times books offer a window—a lens through which we’re able to see characters and experiences that might otherwise be unfamiliar or even inaccessible to us. As a white parent, I have a responsibility to help de-center my kids from every narrative—to give them more windows. Filling our shelves with books that feature protagonists of varying races, identities, or backgrounds is only one small step toward these larger conversations, but I hope they’re helping my daughters pave the way for a more inclusive future. In honor of Black History Month, here are nine books—for kids ages 3-17—by black authors that explore significant historical moments and important black figures. And, of course, these books are also great reading during any other month of the year.

A is for Activist Inspire preschool readers with this ABC board book by Innosanto Nagara. The rhyming and alliteration will keep young learners engaged while sharing a message that calls children to action in support of justice and equality in their communities. (Ages 3-5; Triangle Square; $11.95)

Little Leaders: Bold Women in Black History This New York Times bestseller from authorillustrator Vashti Harrison features 40 kid-friendly biographies of black women who impacted history. The project began with a series of posts Harrison shared to her Instagram (@vashtiharrison) during Black History Month, before growing into the wildly popular book it is today. (Ages 4-10; Little, Brown Young Readers; $16.99)

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

Hidden Figures This picture book by Margot Lee Shetterly, adapted from her New York Times bestselling book (and a popular movie), tells the true story of four black women with STEM talents who changed the course of history, and helped launch the first humans into space during their time at NASA. (Ages 4-10; HarperCollins; $17.99)

A Girl Named Misty In this compelling biography from the American Girl series, young readers will learn the journey of the talented Misty Copeland, who made modern history when the American Ballet promoted her to principal dancer—the first black woman to hold the title in the company’s history. (Ages 7-10; Scholastic; $4.99) Little Legends: Exceptional Men in Black History Looking for a companion to Harrison’s beautifully written children’s book debut? Dive into her most recent book, Little Legends, for more engaging, compelling, and accessible primers on some of American history’s most exceptional black men. (Ages 4-10; Little, Brown Young Readers; $10.99)

Young, Gifted and Black In one- and two-page vignettes, this brightly illustrated book illuminates 52 exceptional black figures from the past and present, including such greats as Maya Angelou, W.E.B. DuBois, Langston Hughes, Nina Simone, Beyoncé Knowles, Simone Biles, Shirley Chisolm, and Serena Williams. (Ages 7-10; Wide-Eyed Editions; $23.99)

March (Books 1-3) In this award-winning and intimate graphic novel trilogy, Congressman John Lewis (D-GA) shares his firsthand account of key events during the Civil Rights Movement. He approaches complex subjects in a way that’s accessible and meaningful, making this series a must-read for middle- and high-school students looking to learn more about black history. (Ages 13 and older; Top Shelf Productions; $14.95-$19.99)

A Child’s Introduction to African American History: The Experiences, People, and Events That Shaped Our Country Young readers with an interest in history and culture will enjoy this one by Jabari Asim, which focuses not only on key figures but on significant events that shaped America—from the slave trade to today’s Black Lives Matter movement. (Ages 10-15; Black Dog & Leventhal; $19.99)

EMPLOYERS Moms Make Great Part-Time Staff People LOOKING FOR STAFF? POST YOUR JOB MOMMYBITES.COM/POSTJOB • Admin • Customer Service • Marketing

Turning 15 on the Road to Freedom: My Story of the 1965 Selma Voting Rights March Learn about a significant milestone during the Civil Rights Era from someone who lived it. This memoir, by Lynda Blackmon Lowery, brings history to life as she recounts her time as the youngest protestor in the 1965 march from Selma to Montgomery in support of voting rights for African Americans. (Ages 12-17; Speak; $9.99)

• Sales • Editorial • Other Jobs

Kirsten Clodfelter is a Midwest-based freelance writer, the co-founder of Rise Marketing Inc., and a mom of three. Learn more at kirstenclodfelter.com or follow her on Instagram: @icanmotheranyway.

BigAppleParent 45

kid’s life

Keeping the Peace How to reduce conflict and foster strong sibling relationships when your children share a room By Jaimie Seaton

e can’t all live in luxury duplexes or spacious houses. In fact, the vast majority of New Yorkers in the metro area live in small apartments, which means families have to get creative with how they use their space—and siblings might have to share a room. Laura Markham, Ph.D., founder of Aha! Parenting and author of Peaceful Parent, Happy Siblings, advises parents start by explaining the situation. Tell your children: “We do need you to share a room with your brother/ sister. I realize that’s asking a lot of you, and I want you to always feel like you can come and talk to me if you get upset by anything. And we’ll put on our thinking caps and find a way to solve whatever the problem is.” There are bound to be ups and downs, so Dr. Markham shares 10 tips for reducing conflict in a tight space.

Expect bumps and don’t give up. There will be a transitional time when you first put your kids together, so expect difficult nights and have a back-up plan. If your baby is used to sleeping with you, first move her to a crib in your room. When she moves to the elder sibling’s room, and if she cries excessively, move her to the living room for the night so the elder child can sleep. Put sleep first. If you’re moving a baby into an older sibling’s room, make sure the baby can sleep through the night so he’s not waking the older child. Consider using a white noise machine to help both children sleep. Start during vacation. If you are transitioning baby or simply putting two siblings together for the first time, try to make the change over a

February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

long weekend or vacation when everyone can sleep in and there is less pressure. Let young children share a bed. When your youngest child is old enough to sleep safely with a sibling, push two twin mattresses together on the floor. This can be a great way to foster closeness, and when the children get older and want their own bed, you can pull the beds apart. Secure their treasures. We want to teach our kids to share, but they should also have a place where their prized possessions (such as a model they built or a favorite book) are just theirs. Have a locked cabinet where each child can store their treasures. This is especially important when one of the siblings is a toddler or young child who may not understand boundaries. Designate the bedroom a quiet space. Sometimes one child needs more downtime than the other. Defining the bedroom as a quiet place and relegating louder activity to family spaces can go a long way toward a peaceful home. Create separate spaces. The most common reason kids have a hard time when they share a room is privacy. Set up play tents or bed canopies with curtains, so each child can feel they have their own cocoon. With older siblings or siblings of different genders who need even more privacy, divide the room in half using bookcases or even a sheet to create a temporary wall. Validate their feelings. If your kids want privacy, it doesn’t mean there’s something wrong. Your children shouldn’t be made to feel disloyal to each other if they want space. Let them know it’s okay. Work to solve conflicts. If kids are having an irreconcilable difference, some family counseling might be in order. If you have teenagers who are at each other’s throats, counseling can help to uncover the underlying issues. It can also help them develop the ability to communicate safely and express their needs. If all else fails, separate them. If you absolutely have to, consider giving the living room to one of the kids, or the parents, until the living situation changes (the older child goes to college or you move to a larger space). Dr. Markham also urges parents to be flexible— you’re not going to be able to set up the situation and leave it until your kids move out or you’re able to move to a home or apartment with more rooms. Communicate frequently with your children and make adjustments according to what works best for them. And remember, sharing a room is teaching your children to be resilient and adaptable—and they’ll likely grow up to be better sleepers.

Jaimie Seaton has been a journalist for more than 20 years and is a former foreign correspondent for Newsweek. Her essays and reported stories on divorce, parenting, dating, and a wide range of topics have been featured in the Washington Post, New York Magazine, Parents and many other publications. Follow her on Twitter @JaimieSeaton.

Professional Services Your local guide to tutors, teachers, lawyers, financial planners, and other professionals

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635 Madison Ave., 12th floor 646-727-7373 drjudygoldstein.com judy@drjudygoldstein.com Dr. Judy Goldstein is a 68-time award-winning, board-certified pediatrician whose focus is “Pediatrics Made Personal.” Following the principles of the American Academy of Pediatrics, she performs mandatory vaccinations, regular checkups (school/camp), and sick visits.

FINANCIAL PLANNING & INSURANCE Affinity Health Plan

866-247-5678 affinityplan.org For more than 30 years, Affinity Health Plan has been offering New York state-sponsored free or low-cost health coverage to New Yorkers who have Medicaid or no health insurance at all.

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Serving all of NYC and surrounding areas 11 Broadway, Suite 550 212-422-2660 pffamilylaw.com familylaw@pffamilylaw.com Fersch LLC practices exclusively in matrimonial and family law. Our attorneys are skilled negotiators and determined advocates for our clients. We provide care and attention to clients and their families of all income levels.

The Law Offices of Deborah S. Ball 488 Madison Ave., Suite 1120 212-223-4100 118-35 Queens Blvd., suite 1220, Forest Hills 718-520-7754 ballnyelderlaw.com

With more than 25 years of experience The Law Offices of Deborah S. Ball focuses on elder law issues, matters affecting the developmentally disabled of all ages, and trust and estate planning options including will preparation and estate administration.

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TUTORS & TEST PREP Eye Level Manhattan

437 E. 12th St., East Village 212-260-8020 eastvillage@myeyelevel.com 104 Reade St., Tribeca 212-346-PREP (7737) info@rsprep.com 307 E. 84th St., Upper East Side 212-737-3344 uppereastside@myeyelevel.com eyelevelny.com Eye Level offers math and English programs for ages 3-14. Whether the immediate goal is for early learning, remedial education, or academic education, Eye Level is the answer.

Successful Students NYC

333 E. 79th St., Upper East Side 646-634-9420 successfulstudentsnyc.com Your child’s academic success is our highest priority! Comprehensive tutoring services for students of all ages and grade levels. With our experience and personalized approach, students are given the tools they need to excel. BigAppleParent 47

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index acrobatics / gymnastics

Ballet Academy East ....................................... 23

Little Gym ........................................................ 8

Bold Arts ........................................................ 39

birthday / party services Chelsea Piers................................................... 10

China Institute ............................................... 37 Eye Level Learning Centers of Manhattan East Village and Upper East Side ............................ 15

music Willan Academy of Music .............................. 28

performing arts / acting Atlantic Acting School....................................... 5

Intrepid Sea Air and Space Museum ................. 2

Global Dance ................................................. 35

Little Gym ........................................................ 8

Harlem School of the Arts............................... 43

Maker-State ................................................... 17

Launch Math ................................................. 17

Play On! Studios ............................................ 37

Urban Air Adventure Park............................... 52

Play On! Studios ............................................ 37

Tribeca Performing Arts Center ...................... 28

USTA BJK National Tennis Center.................... 20

Renascent Institute ......................................... 28

camps 92nd St. Y ..................................................... 15

Harlem School of the Arts............................... 43

Willan Academy of Music .............................. 28

play spaces

YMCA of Greater New York ............................. 7

Urban Air Adventure Park............................... 52

Asphalt Green................................................... 3

dance

Atlantic Acting School....................................... 5

Ballet Academy East ....................................... 23

Bold Arts ........................................................ 39

Global Dance ................................................. 35

special events

Boston Leadership Institute............................. 21

developmental

Intrepid Sea Air and Space Museum ................. 2

Camp Settoga................................................... 9

Chatty Child Speech Therapy PLLC.................. 37

Young Child Expo .......................................... 43

Chatty Child Speech Therapy PLLC.................. 37

MWS Student Camps ..................................... 23

Chelsea Piers................................................... 10

NORY............................................................. 41

China Institute ............................................... 37

Pusteblume International School .................... 39

Chatty Child Speech Therapy PLLC.................. 37

education

Young Child Expo .......................................... 43

Boston Leadership Institute............................. 21

sports

Downtown Day Camps................................... 41 Dwight School ............................................... 27 Future Stars ................................................... 25 Global Dance ................................................. 35 Harlem School of the Arts............................... 43 Launch Math ................................................. 17 Little Gym ........................................................ 8 Maker-State ................................................... 17 MWS Student Camps ..................................... 23 NORY............................................................. 41 Play On! Studios ............................................ 37 Pusteblume International School .................... 39 Sportime ........................................................ 28 The Ecole........................................................ 14 USTA BJK National Tennis Center.................... 20 Willan Academy of Music .............................. 28 Windward School .......................................... 35 YMCA of Greater New York ............................. 7

child care / day care Mommybites................................................... 45

China Institute ............................................... 37 Dwight School ............................................... 27 Eye Level Learning Centers of Manhattan East

research Boston Leadership Institute............................. 21

special needs

92nd St. Y ..................................................... 15 Asphalt Green................................................... 3

Village and Upper East Side ............................ 15

Camp Settoga................................................... 9

International Academy of New York ............... 19

Chelsea Piers................................................... 10

Maker-State ................................................... 17

Downtown Day Camps................................... 41

MWS Student Camps ..................................... 23 New York French American Charter School .... 25 NORY............................................................. 41

Dwight School ............................................... 27 Future Stars ................................................... 25

Pusteblume International School .................... 39

USTA BJK National Tennis Center.................... 20

Renascent Institute ......................................... 28

YMCA of Greater New York ............................. 7

The Ecole........................................................ 14 Windward School .......................................... 35

theater

Zeta Charter Schools....................................... 21

Atlantic Acting School....................................... 5

family entertainment / events / outings

Tribeca Performing Arts Center ...................... 28

Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Museum of Manhattan .................. 23 Intrepid Sea Air and Space Museum ................. 2

tutors Eye Level Learning Centers of Manhattan East

classes

Tribeca Performing Arts Center ...................... 28

Village and Upper East Side ............................ 15

Asphalt Green................................................... 3

Urban Air Adventure Park............................... 52

Renascent Institute ......................................... 28

NYMetroParents.com features more than 20,000 businesses serving the NY metropolitan area! BigAppleParent 49

last word

What do you really want for Valentine’s Day?

“Every Valentine’s Day I want those around me to feel loved, so I usually don’t think about what I want. I guess in a perfect world where I get what I want, I would ask for what I request on my birthday, Christmas, etc.: a nap. That’s really all I want. Just a nap. A nice long nap.” —Jason Greene (@thejasongreene), Manhattan

“To me, there is nothing more romantic or sentimental than feeling loved and appreciated. To be really noticed for all the invisible work moms do daily. I don’t need any physical presents, but I do love experience gifts. A family activity, a date night, concert, cooking class, comedy show, or a play are always top on my list.”—Katy Winter (@katys_organized_home), Westchester County “A whole 24 hours of silence—a night to sleep, a morning to only think about myself. And, then, after 24 hours of silence, I want sex. Because to have good sex you need a peaceful, uncongested mind, and that is hard to do when you’ve been jumping from mom-mode to entrepreneur-mode all day.”

“I want a day of f, at home . with no kids And a box of chocolatesns.”

—Pamela Pekerman (@pamelapekerman), Manhattan

rsky Quee

— Margot Luba

“A nice bottle of red wine, good dark chocolate, and my kids to stop interrupting for one second so I can have an actual conversation with my husband.” —Jessica Reese, Westchester County

Connect with us 50

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February 2020 | nymetroparents.com

@nymetroparents

As we just moved into a new house, I’m dreaming of pretty linens (napkins and placemats) for our new table and all the parties I am hoping to plan but may never get around to doing so.” —Lisa Miller, Brooklyn

“I want an experience— something that feels special and maybe a little lavish… something I can get out of my mommy clothes for!” —Stella Leo (@StylishlyStella), Manhattan

@NYMetroParents

NG I BR OUR Y Y MIL FA

Sunday, March 8, 11am-2:30pm

Hofstra University David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex

Hosted by

Fun For Kids Activities • Crafts • Games • Sports

Great For Parents Meet directors from camps, summer programs, destinations, local programs and more.

Free family ticket at licampfair.com

Receive (1) wristband, good for access to Ultimate Attractions. Cost $24.99 plus tax. May

Valid for up to 4-people. Each jumper will receive (1) wristband, good for Ultimate Access, (1)

not be combined with any other offers, coupons, specials, birthday parties or special events. Age and Height restrictions may apply.

bottled waters. Cannot be split. Cost $89.99 plus tax. May not be combined with any other offers, coupons, specials, birthday parties or special

Expires 2/29/2020 Use Code “BAP2019”

Expires 2/29/2020

Receive $25 off any party package. Must book party using code “BAP2019” by 2/29/2020. (We are happy to book it over the phone). Valid for any 2020 birthday party. Limit (1) per customer. May not be split. May not be combined with any other offers, specials, coupons or special events. For more information visit UrbanAirSouthHackensack.com.

Use Code “BAP2019”

Expires 2/29/2020

events. Age and Height restrictions may apply.