Big Apple Parent March 2019 by City Guide NY

BigApple igApple Parent NYMETROPARENTS.COM MARCH 2019

Find the Perfect

Summer Camp! • Tips to choose the best one for your child • Day, sleepaway, and specialty camp descriptions • Side-by-side comparison chart

Decorate on a Dime Budget-friendly tips to rethink your home décor

Baby Roommates The numerous benefits of sharing a room with your infant

HELPING PARENTS MAKE BETTER DECISIONS

BigAppleParent

BUILDING CHARACTER, CONFIDENCE, AND COMMUNITY

June 27 - August 16 SWIM • SPORTS • FIELD TRIPS • THEME DAYS • ARTS AND CRAFTS URBAN GARDENING • LASTING FRIENDSHIPS • AND MORE!

555 East 90th St. 212.298.7900 camps@asphaltgreen.org

SDC 2019 NY Metro_Big Apple Parent_Renewed.indd 1

BATTERY PARK CITY

212 North End Ave. 212.298.7900 campsagbpc@asphaltgreen.org

2/21/19 1:40 PM

-CENTRAL PARKTraditional Camp for 3 to 15 year olds »Featuring Specialized Early Childhood Programming for 3 to 5 year olds

• Intentionally designed by Early Childhood educators with your child's needs in mind. • Offers a blended program combining active, rest and restore time, and enrichment-based activities, tailored specifically to the ages and stages of our ESIC campers. • For campers ages 3-5 who have not yet started Kindergarten and are fully potty trained. • Has reduced staff-to-camper ratios. • Outdoor fields and A/C indoor facilities, exclusively for our Early Start age campers. • Has a flexible schedule that's modified to meet the needs and skill level of our youngest campers.

Oasis Offers:

• Programs for Ages 3-15 • 8:30am-5:30pm • Extended day available • Flexible Enrollment: 2-8 weeks • American Red Cross Swim Instruction • Hot Lunch Option • Carnivals & Imagination Playground • Special Events & Day Trips

›› Check out our other location in Downtown Manhattan at PS 110! ›› See our website for info session dates!

• A larger program that has opportunities for campers to participate in special events and activities with the entire camp community.

@oasisdaycamps

Join us for an info session on Saturday, Mar. 5th: 6:30 to 8pm at The BASIS Independent School- LIU Post Campus (795 Columbus Ave) Register Online Today! www.oasischildren.com • 646-698-1800

BigAppleParent

contents table of

march 2019

29 44

Family Activities Calendar

Find something fun to do with your kids every day this month!

Decorate on a Dime

Budget-friendly ways to redecorate your home

camp 16 Choosing the Perfect Camp 18 Camp Directory 24 At-a-Glance Camp Guide

Rooming with Baby

Sharing your room with your infant has more benefits than convenient nighttime feedings.

raising kids

things to do

family life

6 Editor’s Note 8 New Places, New Programs 10 An Inclusive Setting with a Focus on Social Justice 12 Keeping Memories Alive 14 Creative Child Care Solutions for Life in NYC 14 5 Tips for the Early Years 46 Rooming with Baby 47 Professional Services 48 Conversations to Have with Your Teen About Dating 50 Education Directory, Preschools-at-a-Glance 51 Party Central 52 Open Houses 53 Advertiser’s Index

28 Family Fun a Ride Away

42 Could You Lose Your Coverage?

29 Family Activities Calendar

44 Decorate on a Dime

54 DIY: Reversible Cape

NYMetroParents

Helping Parents Make Better Decisions ON THE COVER ›› 16 Find the Perfect Summer Camp 18 Camp Descriptions 24 Comparison Chart 44 Decorate on a Dime 46 Baby Roommates facebook.com/nymetroparents

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

BigAppleParent

raising kids editor’s note MARCH 2019 • Vol.34 • No.2

NYMetroParents nymetroparents.com

EDITORIAL

Happy Campers Await

ith spring on the horizon and thoughts of warmer weather ahead, all we can think about is summer camp. And we’re here to ensure you find the perfect one for your child—for this summer and many summers to come! Living in Manhattan has its pros and cons. Pros: There’s a ton to do with your kids on any given day and lots of options for great health care providers, camps, after-school activities, and more. Cons? There are a lot of great options. So, we turned to the experts on camps, and got the six best tips for choosing the perfect camp for your children. If your list of potential summer camps is longer than your weekend to-do list, you’ll want to turn to pg. 16 for advice from local camp directors—after all, we’re here to help you make the best decisions for your children. If you’re just starting the camp-planning process, we have lots of resources for you, too. Turn to pg. 18 for day, sleepaway, and specialty camp descriptions, and then check out the side-by-side camp comparison chart on pg. 24. And if you’d like more help in planning your child’s perfect summer, check out our inaugural issue of The Camp Planner by Big Apple Parent at nymetroparents.com/campguide/manhattan. It’s a free digital download, full of camp planning advice, even more camp descriptions, open house listings, and more! While we do love camp, we have more than just camp advice in this issue. You can find budget-friendly decorating tips on pg. 44, read about the benefits of sharing your room with your infant (pg. 46), discover reasons why an insurance company may decide to cancel your policy on pg. 42, and get advice on the various conversations to have with your teen when he or she starts dating (pg. 48). Of course, we’re also all about things to do with your kids on any given day of the week, so be sure to check out our calendar chock-full of fun events (pg. 29)— and remember to sign up for our weekly newsletter of the best weekend activities at nymetroparents.com/register. Wishing you a successful camp planning season! Katelin Walling Editorial Director Helping Parents Make Better Decisions

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR: Katelin Walling PRODUCTION EDITOR: Melissa Wickes ASSISTANT EDITORS: Anja Webb, Jacqueline Neber CALENDARS CALENDAR COORDINATOR: Whitney C. Harris EVENT RESEARCHERS: Rochelle Dorset, Lisa Fogarty, Kristina Johnson, Shara Levine DIRECTORIES EDITOR: Alice Van Dyke

ADVERTISING SALES

Big Apple Parent 212-315-0800 Jeunesse Jackson, Manager Lauren Alperin Meirowitz, Managing Director Queens Parent 718-878-4860 Annene Guertin, Manager Westchester Parent 914-397-0200 Nini DeLuca, Manager Lauren Anchin, Merrill Sugarman Brooklyn Parent 718-878-4860 Phyllis Crupi, Selene Rodriguez Rockland Parent 845-848-8021 Cara Roteman, Jim Russo Long Island Parent, Nassau 516-883-4543 Joan Bergman, Manager Lisa Herlihy Long Island Parent, Suffolk 631-472-5437 Karen Shapiro, Gayle Sherman To Advertise: nympads@davlermedia.com To Submit Events: nymetroparents.com/submitevents To Submit News: nymetroparents.com/submitnews

STATEN ISLAND PARENT

EDITOR/PUBLISHER: Roselle Farina-Hecht 718-494-1932

MOMMYBITES

MANAGING DIRECTOR: Lauren Alperin Meirowitz 646-736-3609

OPERATIONS

DIR. OF OPERATIONS -- EVENTS: Rebecca Stolcz DIRECTOR OF OPERATIONS: Ray Winn OPERATIONS COORDINATORS: Elvins Cruz, Leonard Porter DIRECTOR OF TRAFFIC: Heather Gambaro MARKETING SERVICES MANAGER: Erin Jordan

PRODUCTION

Moms & Dads Make Great Part-Time Employees (are you looking?) M

any parents want a lifestyle that allows them to devote large blocks of time to raising kids and also pursue professional activities. The answer is often a work-from-home or part-time job. Mommybites.com—the go-to parenting community for resources, support, and education—has a job board dedicated to parents who are looking for those ﬂexible opportunities! Whether you are a part-time bookkeeper, writer, catering staff person, or have other skills, there are companies looking for you. These are jobs designed for people who want to return to the workforce, while remaining the primary caregiver for their children. Check mommybites.com/jobs today to see what opportunities are available now. Don’t forget to sign up for the newsletter to get weekly updates about just-posted positions. Are you looking to hire a mom (or a dad)? Post your opportunity on mommybites.com!

DIRECTOR|PUBLISHING MANAGEMENT: Anthony Diaz DIRECTOR|DIGITAL CONTENT: Silvia Balu

MARKETING

ASSISTANT MARKETING MANGER: Kristine Pulaski

FINANCE

CFO: David Friedman CREDIT ASSISTANT: Rosa Meinhofer, Dan Finnegan

Davler Media Group davlermedia.com

CEO: David L. Miller GENERAL MANAGER: Thomas K. Hanlon 213 W. 35th St., Suite 12W, New York, NY 10001 Phone: 212-315-0800; Fax: 212-271-2239

BIG APPLE PARENT, QUEENS PARENT, WESTCHESTER PARENT BROOKLYN PARENT, ROCKLAND PARENT, BERGEN • ROCKLAND PARENT, STATEN ISLAND PARENT, and LONG ISLAND PARENT are published monthly by Davler Media Group, LLC Copyright © 2017, Davler Media Group, LLC No part of contents may be reproduced without prior permission from the publisher. Subscription rates per year, per publication: $39

At The Little Gym, we complement the traditional school experience with unique classes that revolve around active play. Our students are encouraged to jump, ﬂip, and swing their way towards increased health, focus, knowledge, and happiness. Big Discoveries at The Little Gym. Find your kid's happy place with an Introductory Experience!

The Little Gym of Scarsdale tlgscarsdaleny.com 914-722-0072 The Little Gym of Upper West Side tlgupperwestsideny.com 212-799-1225

NOW

enrolling for Winter/Spring Semesters!

Parent/Child Classes • Pre-K Gymnastics Grade School Gymnastics • Dance Karate • Sports Skills • Awesome Birthday Bashes Parents’ Survival Nights • Camps BigAppleParent

Courtesy Hofstra University Contin uing Education

raising kids new places, new programs

Saturday Youth Program on Long Island Adds Classes

Hofstra Saturday Classes for Young Peopl e offers programming, game design, robotics, and more from fundamenta ls to precollegiate.

Courtesy Daniel’s Music Foundation

Who: Hofstra Saturday Classes for Young People What’s New: Internet of Things class, for seventh to 12th grades, is slated to return March 2 with a weather activity and multicolored light programming. The eight-session class will run through May 18 and is structured through discussions and exercises that become part of the larger project. This semester’s final project will be to build a weather station, where an app will sound an alarm if the weather is ideal for your favorite activity. Additionally, students will rig multicolored lights, allowing them to program switches to control the lights from a website. They will also learn basic electronics, circuits, resistance, and power. Want More Info: 101 Oak St., Uniondale; ce.hofstra.edu/youth; 516-463-7400

Music School in East Harlem Offers Baby & Me Classes Who: Daniel’s Music Foundation What’s New: Two Baby & Me classes: Rock By Baby and Tots Rattle & Roll, which both began in January. Rock By Baby is for ages newborn to 1 and Tots Rattle & Roll is for children ages 1-2½. Children of all abilities are welcome for learning, self-expression, and exploration through music. Both classes aim to connect individuals with disabilities to those without through the universal language of music. Rock By Baby classes are held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30-10:15am and Saturdays from 10-10:45am. Tots Rattle & Roll are held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 9:30-10:15am and Saturdays from 11-11:45am. Want More Info: 1596 Lexington Ave., East Harlem; 212-289-8912; danielsmusic.org

March 2019 | nymetroparents.com

At Daniel’s Music Foundation, students can participate in private voice, guitar , keyboard, songwriting, and percussive lessons as well as group classes.

Independent School Spotlight

INCLUSION • DIVERSITY • EXCELLENCE • ACCEPTANCE • LEADERSHIP

The IDEAL Difference

On any given day at The IDEAL School of Manhattan, students may give a presentation on a civil rights leader; participate in a musical; enjoy Riverside Park; program a robot; or visit the Met. IDEAL is New York’s only K-12 independent inclusion school, where we celebrate the tremendous social, emotional, and academic growth born in a diverse and nurturing educational community. #SchoolCanBeIDEAL Sign up for a Tuesday Talk and Tour or an Open House to learn more about IDEAL’s rigorous and differentiated program, innovative social justice curriculum, and uniquely inclusive community. LOWER SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE, Grades K-5: Wednesday, April 10, 2019, 9 AM UPPER SCHOOL OPEN HOUSE, Grades 6-12: Wednesday, April 17, 2019, 9 AM IDEAL has mid-year openings in select grade levels for qualified candidates. For further information, contact us at admissions@theidealschool.org or 212-769-1699.

The Lower School 314 West 91st St., New York, NY 10024 The Upper School 270 West 89th St., New York, NY 10024

www.theidealschool.org

At Wetherby-Pembridge School, we inspire the individual to reach personal confidence and success with integrity, kindness, respect and manners. Nursery 3 - Grade 8.

Respect, Resilience, Responsibility Join our Spring Open Houses Please note that registration is required

Tuesday 2nd April, 9:00am - 10:30am Thursday 11th April, 6:30pm - 8:00pm Saturday 27th April, 10am - 11:30am *Private tours available by appointment

For more information: info@wetherbypembridge.org | 646-213-3400 | www.wetherbypembridge.org | 7 East 96th Street, New York

BigAppleParent

Independent School Spotlight WELCOME

欢迎

BIENVENIDOS

raising kids independent school spotlight

An Inclusive Setting with a Focus on Social Justice ››

Courtesy Jeff Frank

By Katelin Walling

Jeff Frank says his sons, Milo (left) and Eira, are thriving in the inclusive setting of The IDEAL School of Manhattan.

Bilingual. Multicultural. Diverse. Helping students gain the skills, confidence and compassion to contribute and thrive in today’s world.

Mandarin and Spanish tracks: Pre-Nursery (age 2) - Grade 8. Limited placement still available in Pre-Nursery through Grade 4.

SCHEDULE A VISIT www.ianyc.org / 212-641-0260

4 East 90th Street, summer 2019

March 2019 | nymetroparents.com

“

oth my children have a real strong understanding of people’s differences…and how everybody is stronger when they’re all working together,” says Jeff Frank, father of Milo, a fifth-grader, and Eira, a first-grader, who are enrolled at The IDEAL School of Manhattan, located on the Upper West Side. He credits their understanding to the school’s community and educational philosophy. The IDEAL School is an inclusive, coed, independent school for kindergarten through 12th grades. It was founded by three families of children with Down syndrome who wanted their children to learn alongside neurotypical peers, according to Joseph Kemp, director of communications for The IDEAL School. While neither of Frank’s children have Individualized Education Programs, he says they both needed a little extra instruction, which they weren’t getting at their previous school. When he and his wife were looking for a new school for their children, “IDEAL became an ideal choice because we really enjoyed the idea of having an individualized learning center, so every child is working at their own pace regardless of their obstacles or their learning needs,” Frank says. The IDEAL School of Manhattan reinforces the message of inclusivity through its social justice and service learning programs. “Inclusion becomes, essentially, a civil rights issue, so I think it makes sense that their social justice curriculum is very much at the center of their emphasis on inclusion,” Frank says. “All the messages that you would teach in inclusion about respect, about communication, about cooperation, all of those things lend themselves to the social justice curriculum. …It teaches children that they have to support each other and be allies even when the issue isn’t affecting them directly.” And it’s something he says his children have internalized. “Even more so than my wife’s and my appreciation for IDEAL, I think my children love it most. They look forward to going to school every day,” Frank says. “When my son first visited IDEAL, he walked away saying, ‘I feel like these children are just like me, these are my people.’”

Independent School Spotlight

Superior academics, a joyful atmosphere, and emphasis on character education lead Green Vale graduates to excel in the top secondary schools and colleges...and in life.

Open House

March 13 | April 11 9:00 AM

Visit greenvaleschool.org to RSVP or schedule an informational tour at your convenience.

EARLY CHILDHOOD THROUGH 8TH GRADE 250 Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lane, Old Brookville, NY | 516.621.2420 BigAppleParent 11

Keeping Memories Alive ››

Courtesy Sara Rubinfeld

raising kids voices

The author with her family

How my husband and I keep the spirit of my father alive with our kids

y 20s were a whirlwind. I am sure it’s a feeling many of us share. I graduated college at 21, met my future husband at 22, started grad school at 23, then got married at 25. I finished grad school and had my first baby just a few weeks apart. I was 27. My Dad died when I was 29. And since that day, everything in my life has been divided into two parts: before Daddy died and after. His death made me the first among my friends to lose a parent as an adult. Trust me, that’s not the kind of distinction anyone wants. As many people will tell you, the loss of a parent is something from which you never truly recover. The lucky ones among us figure out how to keep moving forward. Our daughter turned 5 last summer. When she was born, my Dad was nine years into his battle with kidney disease. With medication, lots of doctor’s appointments, daily dialysis, and copious amounts of support from my Mom, our extended family, and their friends, he was managing it. December marked four years since my Dad passed. In December our son, named after my Dad, also turned 3. It’s hard for me—for both me and my husband—raising our kids without my Dad. Grandpa was a role he was born to play. Almost from day one he jumped into the deep end. There was no greater gift the world could’ve given him than becoming a grandpa. Unfortunately, our time together was cut short; he died when our daughter was 17 months old. Our daughter doesn’t remember him, and our son is still too young to comprehend the loss. But we talk about my Dad a lot.

By Sara Rubinfeld

Keep talking. It’s one of the lessons I learned from the death of my grandmother when I was young. My parents and aunts and uncles never stopped talking about my grandmother. They talked about her so much to the point that my two younger cousins—one who was too young to remember her and the other who was born after she had passed away—can tell the stories and family lore almost as well as the rest of us. I talk to our kids because I really thought we would have more time with my Dad than we got. I talk to our kids because I want them to know how proud he would’ve been of all their accomplishments, both great and small. Talk to your kids about loved ones who have passed because you love them, and you want your kids to know how important this person was (and still is) in your life. Talk about them because you know how much they would’ve loved your kids. Talk about loved ones who have passed because your kids will do or say things that will remind you of them. Share with your kids the things that brought those loved ones joy. You never know when you will find a shared passion or a simple moment of appreciation. I wish my Dad was here to get to know our kids in all of his threedimensional glory, but I do the best I can both to honor his memory and to connect our kids to the grandfather they will never know. The ability to talk to our kids about my Dad is one of the greatest gifts my family gave me. Now I’m hoping I can inspire some of you to share that gift with your kids as well.

Sara Rubinfeld is a wife, mom, and nonprofit fundraiser. When she isn’t busy trying to save the world one charitable gift at a time, she can be found at home in Brooklyn with her husband, kids, and cats. This is her first personal writing piece for a professional publication.

March 2019 | nymetroparents.com

www.LyceumKennedy.org www.LyceumKennedy.org

YO U R S U M M E R , YO U R W AY Choose from one-week intensives to an entire summer of experiences in NYC and Rockland County

92Y.ORG/CAMPS

BigAppleParent 13

raising kids child care

Creative Child Care Solutions for Life in NYC ››

Courtesy Mommybites.com

f it takes a whole village to raise one child, then thank goodness we live in New York City. After all, living in the Big Apple can really work in parents’ favor when it comes to finding child care—even at the last minute. Last month, we talked about the perks of finding help in your own apartment building (no traffic or transit delays), and how your apartment can become a “destination” for those who could use a refuge or personal space for a few hours while your kids sleep and you and your significant other grab a date night. Here are a few more ways in which living in the city can put you at a child care advantage:

Invest in Future Babysitters

Hire a pre-teen as a mother’s helper during school breaks or after school, which is likely when you need the most help. With NYC transit options aplenty, she won’t need a parent to drop her off. She will love the early babysitting experience, your kids will love the helper’s youth and energy, and your wallet will thank you for finding a less expensive option. In a few years, you will have effectively trained a full-ﬂedged babysitter who can handle a multikid bedtime routine or adventure to Central Park.

Start a Nanny Share

Instead of hiring a full-time nanny, share one nanny’s time with another family. Think strategically about her hours. For instance, avoid unnecessarily paying a nanny while your child is at school. Nannies can work mornings for one family and afternoons for another or switch off days to fit with a parent’s work schedule. A quality nanny can also watch children from two families simultaneously. View available nanny shares in NYC at mommybites.com/newyork/find-a-nanny-share. Stay tuned for even more creative ways to find childcare solutions in NYC!

Mommybites’ mom-generated nanny, babysitter, and nanny-share boards have been some of the most popular child-care resources in New York City since 2006. You can find nannies and babysitters as well as help them get new jobs. Join this community of moms and receive weekly parenting advice at mommybites.com/newyork.

raising kids in the know

5 Tips for the Early Years ›› By Melissa Wickes

s a parent of a young child, it can be overwhelming and difficult to find tangible actions from parenting resources that will contribute to a healthy upbringing for your kid. It’s helpful to know the specific steps you can take to teach your child what is right and wrong—and ensure she feels safe and confident. Christine Martin, author of You’ve Got This! Keys to Effective Parenting for the Early Years, shares some tips to help navigate this confusing but crucial time in your child’s development.

Set aside uninterrupted bonding time. As soon as your child is born, she is searching for a secure attachment that will allow her to confidently and safely explore new things, according to Martin. More time spent with your child at this age will foster positive self-esteem, social-emotional development, and academic success. By dedicating 100-percent of your attention to your child, you are giving her the confidence she needs to grow and develop healthily. Decide what you liked (and didn’t like) about your upbringing. Often, parents copy the way they were parented without taking a closer look and determining if that really worked for them. Examine the parenting styles you were exposed to as a child, Martin suggests. Think about how you can do better and how you can do just as great, but don’t mimic without thinking about what you’re doing and if you really believe in it. Make routines and stick to them. Once your child begins school, he will be in a daily routine for the rest of his school years. Teach him how to deal with everyday tasks and teach him responsibility 14

March 2019 | nymetroparents.com

as soon as possible. Take photographs of him in every part of his bedtime routine, and then hang them up in the bathroom as a fun way to help him remember what he needs to do before bed. Encourage positive behaviors, no matter how small. Instead of focusing on how to discipline your child after she’s gotten in trouble, Martin suggests focusing on the tangible ways you can teach your child to minimize and overcome these behaviors. If your daughter shares her toy with her little brother, make sure you praise her, so she knows these sorts of actions get positive attention. Talk to your child about feelings. Teach your child the words for different feelings, so he knows how to express his emotions. Give him concrete alternatives to a situation if he isn’t getting what he wants. If he wants to play with the truck his sister is playing with, he can play with another toy, he can ask to take turns, or you can give him a timer and teach him to negotiate with his sister that it will be his turn once the timer goes off.

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Introducing The New York Conservatory’s Summer Program for Students 14-15. Give us four weeks, we’ll help your young actor reach the forward edge of their talent!

To apply visit www.nycda.edu/summer @nyconservatory BigAppleParent 15

Choosing the Perfect Camp Narrow your list of potential summer camps with these helpful tips.

ne of the big advantages of raising a family in the New York metro area is the sheer volume of things to do and places to go. That’s true for camp, too: There are hundreds of nearby day and sleepaway camps available for your child to attend. It’s a perk—but can also make determining the just-right spot for your child to spend the summer a bit overwhelming. How can you narrow your list, and choose the perfect summer camp? Internet reviews and browsing camp websites can help, but so too can talking to your child, considering the logistics involved, and touring the actual destinations. Here’s how to get started.

Know What You—and Your Child—Want

The first step: Consult with your child. After all, this is her summer! “The child’s opinion has to be respected,” says Terence Ryan, director at Hofstra Summer Camps in Uniondale. Begin your conversation with a simple question: “[Ask your child] to imagine what a great summer camp would look like for them,” recommends Bobbie Finkelstein, director of after-school and day camp at Congregation Beth Elohim in Brooklyn. Think about your child’s preferences—does he enjoy time indoors or outdoors, is he sedentary or active, and does he like large or small groups, says Cheryl Anstett, director and owner of Ann & Andy Child Care Center in Elmsford. And, consider what you want your child to gain from the summer, says Lauren Wexler, director of camp programs at the 92nd Street Y in Manhattan. Whether it’s becoming a better swimmer, making neighborhood friends, or increasing STEM skills, think about how the camp can help support that 16

March 2019 | nymetroparents.com

››

By Madeleine Burry

goal. Additionally, think about the other characteristics, such as size, facilities, mix of activities, and so on, when initially reviewing options.

Look into the Camp’s Accreditation and Safety

Safety is one of the first features for parents to consider, says Howard Seidman, camp director at Hillcrest Jewish Day Camp in Queens. Todd Roth, owner and director of Deerkill Day Camp in Suffern, recommends confirming that prospective camps are accredited by the American Camp Association. “It’s a seal of approval, and not always easily attainable,” he says. With this accreditation comes an assurance that the camp meets hundreds of sensible and important health and safety standards. If you opt to only have your child attend an ACA-accredited camp, you’ll significantly reduce your list of options. “[With ACA accreditation] you can be assured that your child will be going to one of the top-notch camps in the country,” says Susie Lupert, executive director of the American Camp Association, New York and New Jersey.

Keep Your Budget in Mind

Here’s another quick way to eliminate a number of camps from the list: Figure out what you can afford, and then remove the camps with rates above that amount. “Budget is a big consideration,” Roth says. Find out the total price, he recommends, as well as what’s included, such as transportation, meals, etc. “A lot of those little pieces can add up, so when you’re looking at your budget, you want to look at the total all-in costs,” he says.

And Don’t Forget About Day-to-Day Logistics

For parents, the logistics of camp can throw a wrench into routine. Think about the location of pick-up and drop-off, and how it’ll fit into your day-to-day schedule, Wexler recommends. Ask about whether the camp has flexibility if you want to take a family trip or go on a vacation for a week of the summer, Roth says. Some camps will let you cancel a few days or a week, Wexler notes, while others do not have that flexibility.

Do Your Research

You might be surprised about how much information you can gain from the camp’s website, from the logistical details to the overall vibe of the camp. “We always tell parents look at your values and try to discern whether the camp reflects those values,” Roth says. Spend some time browsing through websites—and involve your child, too. Same goes for when you visit camp fairs, Wexler says. Let your child ask questions and get a sense for the camp from the booths, brochures, and websites. Some things to pay attention to as you browse through websites and stop by booths at the camp fair are: • Interactions with the staff: If you’re at the fair, pay attention to how you feel during conversations with the camp representatives. “The crux of what makes a camp great is the staff,” Seidman says. • Facilities and activities: Is there a good mix? Joe Siegel, executive camp director at Sportime on Long Island, recommends asking what a typical day is like. Ideally, he says, you’ll want a variety of active time (swimming, sports, etc.) along with some downtime to balance your child’s day. Again, keep in mind your kid’s personality. If he’s an introvert, for instance, seek out a camp that’ll fit with that trait. • Counselor-to-camper ratio: This is another big factor to keep in mind, Siegel says, especially if the camp is instructional.

There’s a big difference between a 30-to-1 camper-to-counselor ratio and an 8-to-1 ratio in terms of attention.

Call or Visit the Camps on Your Shortlist

Most directors recommend visiting your two or three finalist camps. While a website is a nice intro, there’s no substitute for looking at the camp with your own eyes, Ryan says, especially since you’re investing a lot of money, and a significant amount of your child’s time, in the experience. If you do a tour, make sure to bring your child along, Seidman says. “Your child is going to be spending time here, not you,” he notes. During your tour, you’ll want to see if the camp seems clean and well maintained, and if the facilities look modern, Anstett says. Calling the camp director is your next best option if a visit isn’t feasible. “Ask to speak to the person in charge—any really good camp director will be thrilled to take that phone call,” Lupert says. If you don’t feel comfortable talking to the director or feel like they’re not giving you sufficient time on the phone, that’s a bad sign. During conversations (or visits) try to dig into factors that may not be mentioned on the website. For instance, ask how much attention the camp gives to developmental levels when planning activities, Finkelstein says. You can also ask how the camp encourages friendship-building (and how it responds to bullying or other bad behavior). One more tip: Try to get a sense if the camp can grow with your child. Ask about the camp’s retention rate, and what’s available for kids a few years ahead of your child’s age. “You don’t want to be taking tours on an annual basis,” Roth notes—your goal is to choose a camp your child can enjoy for many summers to come. Ultimately, Anstett says, “if it feels right go with your gut.” Madeleine Burry is a freelance writer and editor who has held staff positions at Parents.com, Scholastic, and About.com. You can follow her on Twitter @lovelanewest.

CAMP MARKETPLACE

A SUMMER CAMP FOR KIDS WHO ARE FUNNY. Why can’t we just spend our summers writing jokes, getting on stage, and making each other laugh? Wait, we can!!

At Kids ‘N Comedy, you child will: • Learn to write and perform stand-up • Meet new people, • Hear from successful comics, • Play improv games, • Act out your favorite comedy sketches. Cap it all off with your own stand-up show at Gotham Comedy Club. No poison ivy, no canoeing. For kids & teens ages 10–18. Monday–Friday Noon–4 PM Campers can take 1, 2, or 3 sessions!

SUMMER CAMP

2019

Session 1 July 8–19 Session 2 July 22–August 2 Session 3 August 5–16

Photo by Nancy Adler

kidsncomedy.com 212-877-6115 BigAppleParent 17

Camp Directory Day Camps 92Y Camps

1395 Lexington Ave. 212-415-5573 92y.org/camps campmail@92y.org Located on a 50-acre Rockland County campground and just 20 minutes from the George Washington Bridge, our traditional day camp has created six decades of lasting memories. Families enjoy our flexible schedules, dozens of activities, and luxury bus transportation with convenient pickups. Intensives and NYC-based summer programs are also available.

Asphalt Green Summer Day Camp

555 E. 90th St., Upper East Side 212-298-7900 212 North End Ave. (at Murray Street), Battery Park City 212-298-2900 asphaltgreen.org camps@asphaltgreen.org Active kids thrive at Asphalt Green Summer Day Camp. State-of-the-art indoor and outdoor facilities combined with world-class instruction create the ultimate experience. Our core camp values are focal points of every activity. Campers explore their interests and express themselves through sports, swimming, arts and crafts, and theme days.

Chelsea Piers Sports and Entertainment Complex Summer Camps

West 23rd Street and Hudson River Park, Manhattan Camps: 212-336-6846 chelseapiers.com/camp Chelsea Piers Summer Camp is NYC’s most flexible camp with up to 11 weeks and 16 sports to choose from. Our coaches are dedicated year-round to providing athletes with a fun and comprehensive camp experience. Transportation and aftercare available. Camps run June 17–Aug. 30. Register online at chelseapiers.com/camps.

Downtown Day Camp

120 Warren St. 212-766-1104 x1250 downtowndaycamps.com camp@manhattanyouth.org Our private Tribeca facilities include a 75-foot pool, outdoor ball fields, arts and dance studios, and gyms. We offer activities including swim lessons, field sport instruction, P.E. class, Pier 25 mini-golf, Ooey Gooey Science, visual arts, Lego construction, movement and dance, Animal Hour, karate, tennis, music, and drumming.

Henry Street Settlement-Camp Henry

301 Henry St. 212-254-3100 x262 henrystreet.org/camp jpena1@henrystreet.org Give your child (ages 5–13) a summer of fun and learning at Camp Henry at Henry Street Settlement! We provide educational enrichment to prevent summer learning loss, including STEAM projects and engaging literacy lessons, plus arts and crafts, music, drama, sports, swimming, and field trips.

March 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Jodi’s Gym

244 E. 84th St. 212-772-7633 25 Hubbels Drive, Mount Kisco 914-244-8811 jodisgym.com Jodi’s Gym Summer Camp is a morning of nonstop, action-packed fun! Your child will run, jump, tumble, balance, stretch, sing, create, move, and groove, all under the supervision and care of our well-trained, enthusiastic, friendly and certified staff. Join us in our 37th year! Offered for children ages 3-5. Flexible scheduling!

Oasis Summer Day Camps in Manhattan

Oasis in Central Park 795 Columbus Ave. 646-698-1800 Oasis in Downtown-P.S. 110 285 Delancey St. 649-519-5058 oasischildren.com Oasis Day Camp prides itself on age-appropriate programming for ages 3-15. Early Start (ages 3-5) is a nurturing camp environment. Lower (first-second grade) offers sports, arts, swim, enrichment, and nature. Upper (third-sixth grades) is bigger and better for older campers. Teen Travel (seventh-ninth grades) offers unique trips, overnights, and friendships.

Wildlife Conservation Society (WCS) Zoos and Aquarium

1-800- 433-4149 The Bronx Zoo: 2300 Southern Blvd., Bronx, 718-2205132 Central Park Zoo: 830 Fifth Ave., 212-438-6583 Queens Zoo: 53-51 111th St., Corona, 718-271-7361 Prospect Park Zoo: 450 Flatbush Ave., Brooklyn 718399-7327 New York Aquarium: 602 Surf Ave., Brooklyn 718265-3457 wcs.org/education/programs Summer just got wild! Send your animal lover to summer camp at the Bronx Zoo, Central Park Zoo, Prospect Park Zoo, Queens Zoo, and the New York Aquarium! Campers will enjoy up-close animal experiences, Wildlife Theater performances, and age-appropriate, hands-on STEM activities.

YMCA Summer Camps

ymcanyc.org/camp rho@ymcanyc.org The YMCA of Greater New York is one of the largest providers of camp programs in the city, with 70 Day Camp sites across five boroughs, a sleepaway camp upstate, and more than a century of experience giving kids the best summer ever! Where there’s a Y, there’s a way.

Sleepaway Camps Camp Huntington

and ADD. Ability levels mild to moderate-severe. Located in High Falls in the beautiful Catskill Mountain region, the camp provides therapeutically and instructionally designed recreation programs in summer.

MWS Student Camps

514-531-4193 mwscamps.com vanessa@mwscamps.com “French Immersion Experience!” MWS Montreal French Camps at McGill University in the center of Montreal-residential and day camps. 33 years of experience guarantees a high-quality program with personalized attention and support. Juniors (ages 7-10), Inters (ages 11-13), and Seniors (ages 1417). Programs include language study, age-focused excursions, and camp activities.

Tabor Summer Camp-Summer by the Sea

66 Spring St., Marion, MA 508-291-8342 taboracademy.org/page/summer What do you want to discover and explore this summer? Whether children want to discover new sports, enrichment, or arts in our traditional camp, explore the ocean environment in Marine Science Camp, or make global connections in Gateways Program, there is something for everyone at Tabor Academy during the summer.

Specialty Camps Atlantic Acting School

76 Ninth Ave., Suite 537 212-691-5919 atlanticactingschool.org teaster@atlantictheater.org Actors (ages 4–18) spend their summer days forming a theater ensemble, rehearsing a performance, exploring techniques, and developing the courage to act for an audience. Join the fun through acting, singing, improv, and film. All classes culminate in a final performance for family and friends.

Ballet Academy East

1651 Third Ave. 212-410-9140 balletacademyeast.com Ballet Academy East’s Summerdance is a fun-filled summer program for ages 3-8. Designed to foster imagination and inspire a love of the arts, the curriculum includes dance, art, musical theater, cooking, swimming, and more. Each session culminates with a special in-studio performance highlighting the children’s accomplishments.

BlueStamp Engineering

60 E. 78th St. 516-331-1085 bluestampengineering.com jessie@bluestampengineering.com At BlueStamp Engineering students gain hands-on experience building individual technology projects from scratch. Every student builds two projects to keep and a portfolio to share with prospective colleges and employers. No experience required. Whether your passion is robotics, coding, biotech, or alternative energy—BlueStamp can help you build it. continued on pg. 20 ››

CAMP MARKETPLACE

3 Manhattan Locations!

Call to Schedule a Free Trial Class or a Free Placement Evaluation Today! Half Day, “Full Day”, & “Extended Day” Options Available

ftkny.com/summer Upper East Side 307 East 84th Street 212-737-3344

Tribeca 104 Reade Street 212-346-7737

East Village 437 E 12th Street 212-260-8020

Your search for the perfect camp is over...

SPORTIME and

JOHN McENROE TENNIS ACADEMY SUMMER CAMPS

UNDER 10 TENNIS

TENNIS & SPORTS EXCEL TENNIS HIGH PERFORMANCE JMTA SUMMER TENNIS TRAINING MORE!

Camp locations in NYC, Westchester and across Long Island, including in the Hamptons. We’ve got your summer fun covered! Visit us online to find the camp nearest you or contact us at campsnyc@sportimeny.com.

212-427-6150

www.SportimeCamps.com Camp programs vary at each SPORTIME Camp Location.

BigAppleParent 19

CAMP MARKETPLACE

â&#x20AC;šâ&#x20AC;š continued page 18

BOLD Arts Hands-on summer program where you build what you want! Projects include: robotics, wearable tech, and smart devices! No experience required For students 8th-12th grade Flexible program lengths of 2-6 weeks 60 E 78th St New York, NY 10075

www.bluestampengineering.com

2019

CAMP DATES: JUNE 17- AUGUST 23

5 YEAR ANNIVERSARY

CITY COLLEGE 160 Convent Ave., New York, NY 10031 DEMPSEY CENTER 127 West 127th Street, New York, NY 10027

50% OFF with payment plan until 3/31 Use promo code: 5YEARSM

Check out our golf programs for kids ages 3 to 12 in NYC! ktuga.com

March 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Upper East Side and Upper West Side 419-349-2465 bold-arts.com info@bold-arts.com BOLD invites children ages 4-14 to join in week-long dance camps, which culminate in a high-energy, original performance to live music. Participants are immersed in a thought-provoking theme used to inspire their show. Together we build a performance using student-made scenery, costumes, and dances created by the group.

Breakaway Hoops

646-776-2021 x0 OfďŹ ce hours: Monday-Friday, 9am-6pm breakawayhoops.com info@breakawayhoops.com Breakaway Hoops is a Manhattan-based basketball company offering youth (ages 5-15) fundamental basketball instruction through camps, leagues, and clinics year-round. We offer weekly themed summer day basketball camps from June-August. Weekly camps consist of Shooting Camp, Core Skills Camp, Triple Threat Camp, and NBA Player Camps.

Bricks 4 KidzÂŽ

646-927-9129 bricks4kidz.com/450 bricks4kidzny@gmail.com Bricks 4 Kidz NYC Camps are fun and educational! Inspire your child to dive into their imagination and demonstrate creativity with awesome, educational builds and activities. We will take a thrilling journey through Jurassic Brickland, Galaxy Far Away, Brick City Engineers, Mining and Crafting, Transformation Creation, Super Hero Academy, and robotics!

Broadway Dance Center Children and Teens

37 W. 65th St. 3rd ďŹ&#x201A;oor 212-582-9304 broadwaydancecenter.com Move, learn, and grow with Broadway Dance Center Children and Teens this summer! Our one-week dance camps are the perfect way for children to learn about dance, make new friends, and create memories. Designed for movers of all levels, our camps give students the opportunity to try a variety of styles.

The Calhoun School Summer Camps

calhoun.org/camps communications@calhoun.org Calhoun Summer Camps are performing arts camps for creative, passionate kids in grades second to 12th. Create films in Calhoun Movie-Making Camp; practice acting with an internationally acclaimed theater troupe in Story Pirates Camp; get coached by professional musicians in Calhoun Summer Music; or become immersed in jazz in Calhoun Summer Jazz.

Camp Huntington

56 Bruceville Road, High Falls 855-707-2267 camphuntington.com dfalk@camphuntington.com Camp Huntington is a coed, residential summer camp for children and young adults with autism and related developmental and learning disabilities, and ADD. Ability levels mild to moderate-severe. Located in High Falls in the beautiful Catskill Mountain region, the camp provides therapeutically and instructionally designed recreation programs in summer.

Camp Kids â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;N Comedy at The Gotham Comedy Club

208 W. 23rd St. 212-877-6115 kidsncomedy.com info@kidsncomedy.com Camp Kids â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;N Comedy is for kids ages 10-18 who are bored with kayaks, sick of poison ivy, and allergic to everything. It is a summer camp for kids who are funny. They will learn to write and perform stand-up comedy, play improv games, and re-enact scenes from comedy sketches.

China Institute Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Immersive Summer Day Camp (Ages 2-14)

40 Rector St., 2nd ďŹ&#x201A;oor 212-744-8181 x110 chinainstitute.org emarks@chinainstitute.org China Institute offers a unique camp experience in Lower Manhattan. Full- and half-day sessions are offered for ages 2-14. Interactive Chinese language and culture instruction offered to students of all levels. Language instruction is led by experienced Chinese language teachers with exciting historical themes designed to inspire learning, participation, and engagement.

Collina Italiana

1556 Third Ave. (at 87th Street), Suite 603 212-427-7770 collinaitaliana.com info@collinaitaliana.com Italian Summer in the City on the Upper East Side is for kids 3-6 who want to absorb the culture of Italy. The program includes Giochiamo in Italiano-learn Italian through play. Cinema Italiano-study Italian through animated movies. Arte Insieme-make art, speak Italian. Le Uscite-outings to museums. Il Tavolo in Italianoâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; lunch time!

Eye Level Manhattan

East Village 437 E. 12th St. 212-260-8020 eastvillage@myeyelevel.com Tribeca 104 Reade St. 212-346-PREP (7737) continued on pg. 22 â&#x20AC;şâ&#x20AC;ş

CAMP MARKETPLACE Get Close to ‘La Bella Lingua’, without leaving Manhattan!

Italian Summer Mini Camp: June 11 - July 18 August 6 - 22 Private and Group classes available Inquire about

- Giardino dei Bambini: Italian

Adult Classes

morning drop-off (Ages 2-4)

- Girotondo Giallo e Rosso: Italian Playgroup (Ages 2-3, 4-5)

1556 Third Avenue,

- Girotondo Blu e Viola: Reading and

@87th Street,

- Summer Mini Camp: June - August

New York, NY

Suite 603

Writing In Italian (Ages 6-8, 9+) -

- Workshops on Saturdays

Info@collinaitaliana.com

- Private tutoring

212.427.7770

WHERE THERE’S A Y

THERE’S A WAY

HARLEM

SCHOOL

RTS

OF THE A

• Field • ENd- Trips!

gust 16, 2019

July 8-Au Ages 4-12 |

Session A: July 8 - July 19 Session B: July 22 - August 2 Session C: August 5 - August 16 All Sessions 8:30AM - 4:30PM Join Us for a Parent Info Session: • Saturday April 6 @ 5:00pm • Saturday May 4 @ 5:00pm • Saturday May 18 @ 5:00pm • Saturday June 1 @ 5:00pm • Saturday June 8 @ 5:00pm

wWw.HSAnyc.org

645 St. Nicholas Avenue | New York NY 10030 to 145th Street | 212.926.4100

o Perforf- Session mance s! • CARN IVAL F U N ! • SWIM MING!

SUMMER CAMP

SESSION OPTIONS

2 Week Session - $975 4 Week Session - $1950 6 Week Session - $2,850 EXTENDED AM AND PM FEES: Early Drop off: 8:00AM-8:30AM Late Pick Up: 4:30PM-5:30PM Early Drop Off per session: $110 Late Pick Up per session: $165

10% EARLY BIRD DISCOUNT* DAY CAMP OPEN HOUSES: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM March 23 | April 27 | May 18

SLEEPAWAY CAMP OPEN HOUSES: 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM April 7 | May 5

YMCANYC.ORG/CAMP *Pay in full by 4/27 for 10% Early Bird Discount Financial Assistance Available

BigAppleParent 21

CAMP MARKETPLACE

SINCE 1983

FRENCH LANGUAGE CAMPS in Montréal

Residential and day camp options • • For campers ages 7 to 17 • Located at McGill University in the centre of Montréal

www.mwscamps.com office@mwscamps.com

DISCOVER THE ULTIMATE SUMMER CAMP EXPERIENCE! 21 UNIQUE PROGRAMS FOR BOYS & GIRLS, AGES 4–16, WITH: • • • • •

WEEKLY SESSIONS DOOR-TO-DOOR TRANSPORTATION STATE-OF-THE-ART FACILITIES EXPERT COACHES DAILY SWIMMING

Enroll Today!

914.273.8500 FSCAMPS.COM 22

March 2019 | nymetroparents.com

‹‹ continued page 20

info@rsprep.com Upper East Side 307 E. 84th St. 212-737-3344 uesmanhattan@fastrackids.com eyelevelny.com Don’t let your child suffer from “Summer Brain Drain!” Three months free from school can have a detrimental impact on education. Eye Level offers academic programs that students need to enter the coming school year prepared to take on any challenge! Call us to schedule a free diagnostic assessment.

Future Stars Summer Camps Purchase College

735 Anderson Hill Road, Purchase 914-273-8500 fscamps.com Weekly day sessions for ages 4-16 at state-of-the-art facilities in the heart of Westchester. Campers can choose and combine weeks from 19 individualized specialty programs including tennis, soccer, basketball, baseball, lacrosse, football, multisports, field hockey, cheerleading, volleyball, circus arts, magic, softball, diving, horseback riding, swim, academic, STEAM education, and Rising Stars.

Harlem School of the Arts-ARTScape Summer Camp

645 Saint Nicholas Ave. (at 141st Street) hsanyc.org tjohnson@hsanyc.org ARTScape Summer Day Camp at Harlem School of the Arts is an arts experience like no other, offering a summer of fun in the arts for children ages 4-12. Campers enjoy a variety of classes in four different art forms such as music, dance, theater, and art and design.

Kate Tempesta’s Urban Golf Academy

917-270-7257 ktuga.com/content/camps-and-specialprograms-summer mari@ktuga.com Join KTUGA in Central Park for seasonal classes, mini camps, or bi-weekly lessons. Perfect for children ages 3-8. Going East this summer? We return to Montauk Downs State Park for our ninth season! Children ages 3 and older play golf at one of the finest courses.

Launch Math + Science Centers

Multiple Manhattan locations: Upper East Side, Upper West Side, and Tribeca 212-600-1010 launchmath.com info@launchmath.com Launch Math + Science Centers offer exciting and educational one-week STEM summer camps for kids from kindergarten-seventh grade. Campers create digital media,

explore forensic biology, tinker with electronics, program autonomous robots–and that is just the beginning! Launch camps feature a 4-to-1 camper-to-instructor ratio with multiple locations around Manhattan.

Les Elfes International

Chemin de Cli 7, 1936 Verbier, Switzerland +41 (0)27-775-35-90 leselfes.com info@leselfes.ch At Les Elfes International we provide children ages 7-18 from more than 60 nationalities with summer, winter, and spring camps that combine the discovery and practice of new exciting sports with learning and perfecting languages such as French, German, English, Spanish, and Chinese. Excursions included to discover the beauty of Switzerland.

The Little Gym

2121 Broadway, 2nd Floor (between 74th and 75th streets) Upper West Side 212-799-1225 tlgupperwestsideny.com 777 White Plains Road, Scarsdale 914-722-0072 tlgscarsdaleny.com Since 1977, The Little Gym has been promoting healthy and successful physical and mental development of children. Its “Anytime Summertime Kids Fun” includes parent and child classes (ages 4 months to 3 years), preschool and kindergarten classes (ages 3-6), and grade school gymnastics (non-competitive!) for beginner, intermediate, or advanced gymnasts.

Modeling Camp

1535 Broadway 888-757-5575 modelingcamp.com modelingcamp@aol.com Modeling Camp invites girls to discover the model in you this summer as we explore the world of modeling and fashion in NYC. From photo shoot to fashion shows, personal grooming to health and fitness, making TV commercials and meeting top model scouts. Girls learn about the industry in a non-competitive environment.

MWS Student Camps

514-531-4193 mwscamps.com vanessa@mwscamps.com “French Immersion Experience!” MWS Montreal French Camps at McGill University in the center of Montreal-residential and day camps. 33 years of experience guarantees a high-quality program with personalized attention and support. Juniors (ages 7-10), Inters (ages 11-13), and Seniors (ages 14-17). Programs include language study, age-focused excursions, and camp activities.

CAMP MARKETPLACE New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts

39 W. 19th St. 212-812-4035 nycda.edu hfroelich@nycda.edu Give your aspiring actor professional training in our four-week summer intensives. No field trips or theater games. This is college-level coursework taught by working actors. Actors 14-15 can choose either Acting for Film & TV or Musical Theater. From 9am-6pm, weekdays, July 8-Aug. 2.

Play On! Studios

263 W. 86th St. 347-709-4149 playonstudios.com info@playonstudios.com Play On! Studios offers awesome theater camps for grades kindergarten to 12th on the Upper West Side! In all of our camps, young actors will rehearse and perform in a full production, work with professional NYC actors and teaching artists, and build up their skills in a nurturing, noncompetitive environment.

Pusteblume International Preschool and Afterschool Programs 244 W. 14th St. 212-206-1137 pusteblumenyc.org info@pusteblumenyc.org During the months of July and

August we offer fun-packed weeks of activities, excursions, sprinkler fun, games, and a language immersion environment in the German and Spanish language. Each week will include at least two sprinkler and water play days and one theme-related visit in our premises or around town.

SPORTIME Randall’s Island & JMTA Summer Camps - ages 4-17

212-427-6150 sportimecamps.com/nyc campsnyc@sportimeny.com John McEnroe Tennis Academy’s Summer Training Camp and SPORTIME’s 10 & Under Tennis Camp are designed for players who want to focus on playing and learning tennis, and becoming complete players. Every camp day includes tennis, field sports and cross training, tennis-specific athletic training, and NYCFC Soccer Camps.

The Whale Camp

610-399-1463 whalecamp.com The Whale Camp provides experiential marine biology programs and facilities for learning about the dynamic ecologies of the Bay of Fundy and Grand Manan Island. Our goal is to use hands-on activities to increase awareness and understanding of natural systems. Campers build confidence, connect with the natural environment, and make lasting friendships.

Observe whales, porpoises, puffins, seals, and a variety of other marine life up-close in their natural habitat. Explore a unique island ecosystem and make connections that will last a life time! Hands-on programs in marine science, oceanography, and whale research on beautiful Grand Manan Island in the Bay of Fundy. College credit program and $40,000 college scholarships available for high school students

For more information & free brochure, please visit: www.whalecamp.com

» SPACES FILL UP QUICKLY. REGISTER TODAY! « BigAppleParent 23

92Y Camps 92y.org

Asphalt Green Day Camp asphaltgreen.org

Atlantic Acting School atlanticactingschool.org

Ballet Academy East balletacademyeast.com

BlueStamp Engineering bluestampengineering.com

Bricks 4 Kidz NYC bricks4kidz.com/450

Broadway Dance Center Children & Teens broadwaydancecenter.com

Calhoun Summer Camps calhoun.org Camp Henry at Henry Street Settlement henrystreet.org Camp Kids ‘N Comedy kidsncomedy.com

CAMP/pixel pixelacademy.org

Dance

Arts & Crafts

Special Needs

8 8

Breakaway Hoops breakawayhoops.com

8 8

8 8 8

8 8

Children’s Museum of the Arts cmany.org

8 8

China Institute chinainstitute.org

Collina Italiana collinaitaliana.com

Dwight Summer Camp dwightsummercamp.org

Future Stars Summer Camps fscamps.com

Jodi’s Gym jodisgym.com

March 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Downtown Day Camp downtowndaycamp.com

Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum intrepid.org

BOLD Arts bold-arts.com

Chelsea Piers Summer Sports Camps chelseapiers.com

Music

Academic Enrichment

Day Trips

8 8

Swimming

Sports

8 8

Theater

STEAM/Robotics

PROGRAMS:

Half-Day

Flexible Scheduling

Extended Hours

Lunch

Transportation

Camp Guide

SERVICES:

CAMP MARKETPLACE

Summer Day camp children ages 2-14

great perk s for membe rs

Gymnastics, fun, friends and fitness since 1982!

Gymnastics • Ninja Challenge • Music • Playtime • Jodi’s To Go •

For Kids 9 mos to 12 yrs

V is it O u r To ta Awes o mlly e New ly Ren ova te d Fa ci lity!

Summer & School • Break Camps Best Birthdays Ever •

Nothing Else Even Comes Close!

www.jodisgym.com

25 Hubbels Dr. Mt. Kisco • 914.244.8811 244 E. 84th St. NYC • 212.772.7633

Modeling • LEGO®-based STEM & Robotics Camps • In-School and After-School Classes

As featured on

MODELING CAMP

NYC camp for girls ages 11-17

• Fun and Exciting LEGO® Birthday Parties • Serving children ages 3-12+ throughout New York City

Visit us at NYMetroParents.com

modelingcamp.com

Call for more info:

888-757-5575

BigAppleParent 25

Kate Tempesta ktuga.com

Launch Math & Science Centers launchmath.com Les Elfes International leselfes.com

8 8

MWS Student Camps mwscamps.com

New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts nycda.edu

8 8

Play On! Studios playonstudios.com

8 8

Arts & Crafts

Special Needs

Dance

8 8 8 8

YMCA Summer Camps ymcanyc.org

Wildlife Conservation Society wcs.org/parks/camps

Tabor Summer Camp taborsummer.org

USC Gymnastics & Baseball Training Facility uscgymnasticsandbaseball.com

Music

8 8

Academic Enrichment

Day Trips

Swimming

Sports

8 8

Portfolio School portfolioschool.org

The Whale Camp whalecamp.com

Theater

Modeling Camp modelingcamp.com

SPORTIME Summer Camps sportimecamps.com

STEAM/Robotics

Half-Day

PROGRAMS:

Martial Arts Family martialartsfamilystudio.com

Oasis Day Camps oasischildren.com

Flexible Scheduling

Extended Hours

Lunch

Transportation

Camp Guide

SERVICES:

8 8

CAMP MARKETPLACE

Pusteblume

DISCOVER • PROTECT • INSPIRE Bronx Zoo

Queens Zoo

Summer just got WILD! Join us for an unforgettable experience that includes age-appropriate, hands-on STEM activities, up-close animal encounters, and exhibit explorations! Call 1-800-433-4149 or email edu@wcs.org for more info!

New York Aquarium

March 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Central Park Zoo

Prospect Park Zoo

International Preschool

212-206-1137 info@pusteblumenyc.org www.pusteblumenyc.org German and Spanish language immersion

Join us for Summer Camp fun!

NEW for the 2019/20 school year: Afternoon Preschool Programs

Camp Planner For Every Family Digital Camp Guide

WEB • TABLET • MOBILE FRIENDLY

GREAT FREE CONTENT • Expert Advice

• Camp Descriptions

• Camp Comparison Charts

• Open House Schedules

nymetroparents.com/campguide/manhattan

BigAppleParent 27

things to do

outbound

Family Fun a Ride Away By Melissa Wickes

Courtesy Safari Adventure

Courtesy Heckscher Museum of Art

In Suffolk County...

Safari Adventure has more than 30 swipe card arcade games to choose from.

Safari Adventure

Heckscher Museum of Art

This museum includes unique features that make it a fun art museum for kids of all ages. Some exhibits the family will love include the Selfie Station, Digital Action Painting, and Create Your Own Activity Station. One Sunday every month, Heckscher Family Hour invites children ages 5-10 for a family-friendly tour of the museum. Visit it: 2 Prime Avenue, Huntington; heckscher.org; 631-423-2145

Courtesy Aviation Hall of Fame NJ

Courtesy SportsCenter of Connecticut

The wide array of children’s attractions and activities at this indoor play space will not only keep your little ones entertained all day long, but they’ll be learning throughout the fun! With inflatables, a soft playground, an obstacle course, arcade games, a sensory calming spa, a hands-on sensory area, and a 3 and younger toddler area, there is something here for everyone. Visit it: 1074 Pulaski Street, Riverhead; thesafariadventure.com; 631-727-4386

A child uses Digital Action Painting at the Heckscher Museum of Art.

and beyo nd!

The Aviation Hall of Fame and Museum of New Jersey has 10 aircraft to view both inside and outside the museum.

Fun Bowl at SportsCenter of Connecticut combines technology and entertainment for the ultimate bowling experience.

Aviation Hall of Fame of NJ

SportsCenter of Connecticut

Children and adults of all ages will be enriched in all things aerospace while learning about New Jersey’s role in American air and space accomplishments. The exhibits will expose children to potential careers in spaceflight, engineering, research, piloting, management, manufacturing, and other industries relating to aerospace. This includes the rocket engine that propelled the X-15, the first American hovercraft, various airplane models, and helicopters. Visit it: 400 Fred Wheran Road, Teterboro NJ; njahof.org; 201-288-6344 28

March 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Why drag your family to multiple venues to entertain everyone’s interests when you can play hockey, mini golf, laser tag, basketball, bowl, ice-skate, and even create art all under one roof? SportsCenter of Connecticut makes family fun easy and accessible because it is a one-stop fun shop for all activities for people of all ages, with everything from traditional sports to virtual reality and target paintball. Visit it: 784 River Road, Shelton, CT; sportscenterct.com; 203-929-6500

Ideas When You Need Them:

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

nymetroparents.com/register

Turn the page for details on Pips Island (No. 7 on our list).

MARCH

y-day day-b : r u o t ou line ar Check alendar on alend c ood, hborh cost. g i e n h by and Searc type, age, t n eve ily! ted da a d p U

nyme

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ents. ropar

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CALENDAR

Editor’s Hot Tickets

Fun Fairs & Festivals

We Can’t Believe It’s FREE!

Crafty Kids

Movers & Shakers, Once Upon a Time

Mini Muisicians

Special Needs

Show Time!

Smarty Pants

Animal Lovers, Dance Party, Holiday Fun

EDITOR’S HOT TICKET

Our calendar is full of great ideas. First, here are the 10 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!

Tilt 2019 Kids Festival: Johanny Bert & Magali Mougel ‘She No Princess, He No Hero’

WHEN: March 2-3, Saturday, 11:30am and 4pm; Sunday, 4pm WHERE: French Institute, FIAF Skyroom & Haskell Library, 22 E. 60th St., Lenox Hill AGES: 5 and older WHAT: This theater piece transports the audience into the minds of young boys and girls confronting cultural stereotypes. WHY WE LOVE IT: The show tackles the issue of gender norms in a classroom-size venue. WANT TO GO? $15-$25. 212-355-6100. tiltkidsfestival.org.

Disney’s ‘Frozen: The Broadway Musical’

WHEN: Through March 10: Tuesday-Sunday, see website for schedule WHERE: St. James Theatre, 246 W. 44th St., Midtown AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Frozen the Musical expands on the story of two sisters, giving more time to the characters we’ve come to love. WHY WE LOVE IT: The show is faithful to the original story! WANT TO GO? $35 and up. 877-250-2900. seatsforeveryone.com/frozen.

March 2019 | nymetroparents.com

‘Ajijaak on Turtle Island’

WHEN: March 1-10, see website for schedule WHERE: New Victory Theater, 209 W. 42nd St., Midtown AGES: 5-12 WHAT: The Ajijaak is a young whooping crane who must face her first migration south. WHY WE LOVE IT: It can be the start of a larger conversation with kiddos on climate change and taking care of our planet. WANT TO GO? $17 and up. 646-223-3010. newvictory.org.

Reading into History Family Book Club: ‘Zora & Me’

WHEN: Sunday, March 10, 2-4pm WHERE: New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park W., Upper West Side AGES: 9-12 WHAT: Authors Victoria Bond and T.R. Simon discuss their book Zora & Me. WHY WE LOVE IT: There will also be a Q-and-A for kids. WANT TO GO? $21; $16 seniors/educators/active military; $13 students; $6 children ages 5-13; free for children younger than 4. 212-873-3400. nyhistory.org.

Annual St. Patrick’s Open Day FREE

WHEN: Sunday, March 10, 12pm WHERE: Irish Arts Center, 553 W. 51st St., Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Join in a céilí, face painting, and arts and crafts; try a tin whistle or bodhran; and enjoy live music and dances. WHY WE LOVE IT: Visitors can also participate in soda bread-making demonstrations and enjoy international animated shorts celebrating the Irish song. WANT TO GO? 866-811-4111. irishartscenter.org.

New York City St. Patrick’s Day Parade FREE

WHEN: Saturday, March 16, 11am WHERE: Fifth Avenue at 44th Street to 79th Street, Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with the entire family. WHY WE LOVE IT: You don’t have to be Irish to appreciate a procession of bagpipes and kilts! WANT TO GO? nycstpatricksparade.org.

Official Reopening of Pip’s Island

WHEN: Thursday, March 21, 2-7pm WHERE: Pip’s Island, 400 W. 42nd St., Midtown AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Pip’s Island establishes a permanent home for its walking adventure for kids. WHY WE LOVE IT: Audiences get to interact with live performers, puppets, set pieces, and animated characters as they navigate challenges and one-of-a-kind games. WANT TO GO? $49. 212-609-1372. pipsisland.com.

Identification Day

WHEN: Saturday, March 23, 12-4pm WHERE: American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West and 79th Street, Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Bring in your own specimens to be identified. WHY WE LOVE IT: This year, the focus is on predatory species in honor of the new exhibition T. Rex: The Ultimate Predator. WANT TO GO? $23; $18 seniors and students; $13 children ages 2-12. 212-769-5100. amnh.org.

Macy’s Flower Show FREE

WHEN: March 24-April 7, see website for schedule WHERE: Macy’s, 100-104 W. 35th St., Midtown AGES: All WHAT: Journey to Paradisios gives visitors a glimpse of the cosmos reimagined through flowers and garden landscapes. WHY WE LOVE IT: Special in-store events include floral, food, and fashion demonstrations, and celebrity appearances. WANT TO GO? 212-695-4400. macys.com.

WE CAN’T BELIEVE IT’S FREE

Think a freebie has to be ho-hum? Don’t let the price tag (or lack of one) fool you. Here are the five no-cost events we’re excited about now. You’re welcome. Family Literacy Workshop: Pre-K Activity Hour FREE

WHEN: Friday, March 1, 12-1pm WHERE: Harlem Library, 9 W. 124th St., Harlem AGES: 3-5 WHAT: This fun program will help enhance your child’s reading and writing development. WANT TO GO? 212-348-5620. nypl.org.

Take Two Film Workshop: Stop Motion Animation FREE

WHEN: Saturday, March 2, 10:30am WHERE: West End Secondary School, 227 W. 61st St., Upper West Side AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Explore a style of animation called pixilation. WANT TO GO? 917-546-6816. taketwofilmacademy.com.

Sniff and Learn: Essential Oils 101 FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, March 13, 6:30-8pm WHERE: Karma Kids Yoga, 25 W. 23rd St., 3rd floor, Nomad AGES: Adult WHAT: An interactive class that will teach you how to use the 11 most common essential oils. WANT TO GO? 646-638-1444. karmakidsyoga.com.

NYC Children’s Theatre Presents: This is Sadie Storytime FREE

WHEN: Saturday, March 16, 11am WHERE: Strand Book Store, 828 Broadway, Union Square AGES: 3-8 WHAT: A morning of live music, sing-alongs, and creative movement. WANT TO GO? 212-473-1452. strandbooks.com.

Jungle Explorers FREE

WHEN: Monday, March 18, 4pm WHERE: Tompkins Square Library, 331 E. 10th St., East Village AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Come sing and clap along with Bianca the butterfly as she travels in search of courage. WANT TO GO? 212-228-4747. nypl.org. ››

‘Beauty and the Beast’- The Musical

WHEN: Through April 28: Saturday, 3pm; Sunday, 11am (March 19 and March 25 additional 2pm) WHERE: The Players Theatre, 115 MacDougal St., Greenwich Village AGES: 3-12 WHAT: This adaptation is filled with musical numbers, dancing, endearing characters, and magic. WHY WE LOVE IT: Families are invited to participate in a pre-show arts workshop where they make a beauty or mask. WANT TO GO? $32-$52. 866-811-4111. literallyalive.com.

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Sew a Cozy Beanie Workshop

WHEN: Saturday, March 9, 3:30-5:30pm WHERE: The Fashion Class, 21 W. 39th St., 4th Floor, Midtown AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Learn how to use sewing machines and make a knit beanie hat. WANT TO GO? $50. 646-239-6663. midtown.thefashionclass.com.

CRAFTY KIDS Mini Geodesic Dome Craft

WHEN: Saturday, March 2, 10:30-11:45am WHERE: The Skyscraper Museum, 39 Battery Place, Battery Park City AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Learn about domes from across the world and build miniature domed structures. WANT TO GO? $5; $2.50 seniors and students; free for children younger than 12. 212-968-1961. skyscraper.org.

Wocket in my Pocket: Creature Creator

WHEN: March 2-3, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-4:45pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side AGES: 5-17 WHAT: In honor of Dr. Seuss’ birthday, children will create their own creatures. WANT TO GO? $14; $11 seniors and visitors with special needs; free for children younger than 1. 212-721-1223. cmom.org.

Bartholomew’s Oobleck

WHEN: March 2-3, Saturday, 11am-1pm and 2-4pm; Sunday, 11am-1pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Make the slime from Dr. Seuss’s Bartholomew and the Oobleck. WANT TO GO? $14; $11 seniors and visitors with special needs; free for children younger than 1. 212-721-1223. cmom.org.

Preschool Storytime: Petite Picasso FREE

WHEN: Monday, March 4, 4pm WHERE: 96th Street Library, 112 E. 96th St., Upper East Side AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Hear a story and create a messy art project. WANT TO GO? 212-289-0908. nypl.org.

Texture Experiments in Paintings, inspired Sabri Al-Haika and Giza Elwazir

WHEN: March 4-8, Monday and Friday, 12-5pm; Thursday, 12-6pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Soho AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Use nontraditional tools such as combs and forks to create paintings with different textures. WANT TO GO? $13; free for children younger than 1 and CMA members. 212-274-0986. cmany.org. 32

March 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Second Sunday Family Tours

WHEN: Sunday, March 10, 10:30am-12pm WHERE: Guggenheim Museum, 1071 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: Explore the museum with an interactive tour that includes hands-on gallery activities. WANT TO GO? $25 per family. 212-423-3500. guggenheim.org.

Artist in Residence: Ciara Ruddock!

WHEN: March 16-17, Saturday-Sunday, 10am-5pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Soho AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Transform objects into 2-D and 3-D works of art. WANT TO GO? $13; free for children younger than 1 and CMA members. 212-274-0986. cmany.org.

Butterfly Yoga!

WHEN: Saturday, March 23, 2-3pm WHERE: Karma Kids Yoga, 25 W. 23rd St., 3rd floor, Nomad AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Kids will learn about butterflies, make a set of wings, and explore yoga poses. WANT TO GO? $40. 646-638-1444. karmakidsyoga.com.

Extend the Moment with Pinhole Cameras

WHEN: Saturday, March 23, 11am-1pm WHERE: The Morgan Library & Museum, 225 Madison Ave., Murray Hill AGES: 5-17 WHAT: During this hands-on workshop, participants will create their own camera obscura. WANT TO GO? $20; $15 for members. 212-590-0356. themorgan.org.

Family Art Workshops: Color Mixing

WHEN: March 2-31, Saturday-Sunday, 10:30am and 2pm WHERE: The Museum of Modern Art, 11 W. 53rd St., Midtown AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Discover what happens when colors mix together on their palette. WANT TO GO? $25; $18 seniors; $14 students; free for children ages 16 and younger. 212-708-9805. moma.org/family.

Family Sundays: Handmade Hues FREE

WHEN: March 3-31, Sundays, 1-4pm WHERE: The Rubin Museum of Art, 150 W. 17th St., Chelsea AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Construct handmade paper using the bright and vibrant hues of Holi. WANT TO GO? $19; $14 seniors, students, and visitors with disabilities; free for children 12 and younger and members. 212-620-5000. rubinmuseum.org.

Open Art Space: A Free Drop-In Program for LGBTQ Teens and Their Allies FREE

WHEN: Through April 23: Tuesday, 4:30-6:30pm WHERE: Cullman Education Center MoMA, 4 W. 54 St., Midtown AGES: 13-17 WHAT: This drop-in program is for LGBTQ high school students who are interested in art. WANT TO GO? 212-333-1252. moma.org.

Malika Zarra Musical Journey FREE

WHEN: Sunday, March 10, 2pm WHERE: Cultural Services of the French Embassy, 972 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Malika Zarra will perform a musical experience introducing children to sounds and rhythms from North Africa. WANT TO GO? 212-439-1400. tiltkidsfestival.org.

Turtle Bay Music School Annual Benefit

MINI

MUSICIANS

WHEN: Wednesday, March 13, 6:30pm WHERE: Manhattan Penthouse, 80 Fifth Ave., Union Square AGES: Adult WHAT: Help support City Voices Ensemble, a full-scholarship choral ensemble for young women in NYC. WANT TO GO? prices vary. 212-753-8811. tbms.org.

Musical Story Time - Silver Music! FREE New York Philharmonic Young People’s Concert: Level Up: Beethoven, Andrew Norman, and Video Games

WHEN: Saturday, March 2, 2pm WHERE: David Geffen Hall, 10 Lincoln Center Plaza, Columbus Circle AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Explore how writing a symphony is a lot like playing a video game. WANT TO GO? $15-42. 212-721-6500. lincolncenter.org.

Family Performances: Wu Man

WHEN: Saturday, March 2, 1-2pm, 3:30-4:30pm WHERE: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1000 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Explore Chinese instruments with composer Wu Man. WANT TO GO? $25; $17 seniors; $12 students; free for children younger than 12. 212-535-7710. metmuseum.org.

The McCrindle Concert | Orchestra

WHEN: Sunday, March 10, 2-4pm WHERE: Carnegie Hall, Stern Auditorium, Perelman Stage, 881 Seventh Ave., Columbus Circle AGES: All WHAT: Violinist Tai Murray joins music director Michael Repper and the New York Youth Symphony Orchestra. WANT TO GO? $20 and up; $10 students. 212-581-5933. nyys.org/mccrindle.

WHEN: Saturday, March 16, 10:30am WHERE: Bank Street Bookstore, 2780 Broadway, New York AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Children will listen to live music with stories and try a violin, cello, and flute appropriate for their size. WANT TO GO? 212-678-1654. bankstreetbooks.com.

Yacine Boulares & Sarah E. Charles: Ajoyo FREE

WHEN: Saturday, March 16, 4pm WHERE: Harlem Stage, 150 Convent Ave., New York AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Enjoy an instrument-making workshop before hearing Ajoyo, a band blending African tradition, jazz, and soul. WANT TO GO? Free with RSVP. 212-281-9240. tiltkidsfestival.org.

Shababa Palooza: Family Purim Concert!

WHEN: Sunday, March 17, 10:30am WHERE: 92nd Street Y, 1395 Lexington Ave., Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: A live Shababa band brings the story of Purim to life. WANT TO GO? $25 and up. 212-415-5500. 92y.org.

Many Voices: Songs from Around the World FREE

WHEN: Saturday, March 23, 3pm WHERE: Stephen A. Schwarzman Building, 476 Fifth Ave., Midtown AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Join Mr. Patrick and his puppet friends to celebrate songs from cultures throughout the world. WANT TO GO? 212-621-0208. nypl.org.

Family Concert: Who is Miles Davis?

WHEN: Saturday, March 23, 1pm and 3pm WHERE: Jazz at Lincoln Center, 10 Columbus Circle, 5th Floor, Columbus Circle AGES: All WHAT: This narrated concert will teach the audience all about Miles Davis. WANT TO GO? $10 and up. 212-721-6500. jazz.org.

Sing!

WHEN: March 6-27, Wednesdays, 9:15am; Sunday, March 10, 3:30pm WHERE: 92nd Street Y, 1395 Lexington Ave., Upper East Side AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: An interactive sing-along of old-time favorites, folk songs, and childhood classics. WANT TO GO? $20 per child; $10 each additional child. 212-415-5500. 92y.org. ››

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TILT Kid’s Festival ‘Olivier PY The Young Girl, the Devil and the Mill’ A Grimms’ Fairy Tale

WHEN: March 2-3, 2pm WHERE: French Institute, Florence Gould Hall, 55 E. 59th St., Midtown AGES: 5 and older WHAT: A father makes a deal with the devil, unknowingly sacrificing his daughter in the process. WANT TO GO? $25-$45 show; $30-50 package. 212-355-6100. tiltkidsfestival.org.

Just Kidding: National Marionette Theatre: ‘Beauty and the Beast’

SHOW TIME! Just Kidding: Boogaloo Familia

WHEN: Saturday, March 2, 11am WHERE: Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway, Upper West Side AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Explore Latin Boogaloo, the 1960s music and dance craze from Spanish Harlem. WANT TO GO? $17; $14 members. 212-864-5400. symphonyspace.org.

Hachioji Kuruma Ningyo Puppet Theater

WHEN: March 1-2, Friday-Saturday, 7:30pm WHERE: Japan Society, 333 E. 47th St., Midtown AGES: 5 and older WHAT: This puppeteer dazzles audiences with live chanting and shamisen music. WANT TO GO? $40. 212-715-1258. japansociety.org.

‘Not My Monster!’

WHEN: Saturday, March 9, 11am and 2pm WHERE: Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway, Upper West Side AGES: 3 and older WHAT: This classic tale of the ferocious looking Beast with a kind heart is brought to life through marionettes. WANT TO GO? $17; $14 members. 212-864-5400. symphonyspace.org.

Galli’s ‘The Ugly Duckling’

WHEN: March 2-10, Saturday-Sunday, 2pm WHERE: Galli Theater, 74 Warren St., Tribeca AGES: 3-12 WHAT: A duckling meets many animals and realizes that it is not ugly, only different. WANT TO GO? $20; $15 children. 212-731-0668. gallitheaternyc.com.

Just Kidding: Jedi Academy

WHEN: Saturday, March 16, 11am WHERE: Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway, Upper West Side AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Learn the ways of the Jedi with Panniken Moonjumper, a master of intergalactic fun. WANT TO GO? $17; $14 members. 212-864-5400. symphonyspace.org.

WHEN: Through March 2: Saturdays, 11am and 2pm WHERE: The Flea Theater, 20 Thomas St., Tribeca AGES: 5 and older WHAT: When the Russian economy crashes, a family is forced to move to a cabin in the middle of a swamp, but at least they have their family monster to keep them safe. WANT TO GO? $17. 212-226-0051. theflea.org.

Fiesta Con Sonia De Los Santos

LC Kids Presents: Awa Sangho FREE

‘The Ugly Duckling’

WHEN: Saturday, March 2, 11am WHERE: David Rubenstein Atrium at Lincoln Center, 61 W. 62nd St., Columbus Circle AGES: 3-5 WHAT: With drumming and dancing, Mali-born, Awa Sangho delivers music steeped in the rhythms of West Africa. WANT TO GO? 212-721-6500. lincolncenter.org.

‘Alice In Wonderland’

WHEN: Saturday, March 2, 2pm and 4pm WHERE: The Town School, 540 E. 76th St., Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: Victorian-era Alice travels through the rabbit hole to present day New York City. WANT TO GO? $10 online; $15 day of. 419-349-2465. sparkmovementcollective.org.

Broadway Playhouse: Jerry Bock & Sheldon Harnick

WHEN: Sunday, March 3, 11am WHERE: Merkin Hall at Kaufman Music Center, 129 W. 67th St., Upper West Side AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Introduce kids to classic musicals with mini-shows, medleys, games, and sing-alongs. WANT TO GO? $20. 212-501-3330. kaufmanmusiccenter.org. 34

March 2019 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: March 15-16, Friday, 7pm; Saturday, 11am and 3pm WHERE: New Victory Theater, 209 W. 42nd St., Midtown AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Hear Sonia De Los Santos and her musical friends from Latin America sing, dance, and celebrate each other’s heritage. WANT TO GO? $25. 646-223-3010. newvictory.org. WHEN: Saturday, March 16, 11am WHERE: BMCC Tribeca Performing Arts Center, 199 Chambers St., Tribeca AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Enjoy a cutting-edge blend of puppetry, technology, and dance. WANT TO GO? $30. 212-220-1460. tribecapac.org.

Family Concert: The Pop Ups

WHEN: Sunday, March 17, 11:30am WHERE: The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Celebrate Purim with The Pop Ups, who will perform with puppets, live drawings, and a costume party. WANT TO GO? $18; $14 members. 212-423-3200. thejewishmuseum.org.

Just Kidding: Papa Siama and Auntie Dallas

WHEN: Saturday, March 23, 11am WHERE: Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway, Upper West Side AGES: 3 and older WHAT: Hear songs with traditional African instruments and harmonies in English, Swahili, Lingala, and Kikongo. WANT TO GO? $17; $14 members. 212-864-5400. symphonyspace.org.

‘The Wizard of Oz’

WHEN: March 9-23, see website for schedule WHERE: Harlem Rep/Tato Laviera Theatre, 240 E. 123rd St., Harlem AGES: All

WHAT: This updated and progressive rendition features a racially diverse cast. WANT TO GO? $10 general admission; $20 premium seating. 212-868-4444. wizardofozjazzmusical.com.

The Magic School Bus: Lost In The Solar System

WHEN: Saturday, March 23, 11am WHERE: BMCC Tribeca Performing Arts Center, 199 Chambers St., Tribeca AGES: 5-12 WHAT: When the class gets lost on the way to the planetarium, Ms. Frizzle saves the day by blasting into outer space! WANT TO GO? $30. 212-220-1460. tribecapac.org.

Premiere of: Galli’s ‘Puss in Boots’

WHEN: March 16-24, Saturday-Sunday, 2pm WHERE: Galli Theater, 74 Warren St., Tribeca AGES: 3-12 WHAT: A miller’s son inherits a cat named Puss in Boots who plans to turn him into an extraordinary prince! WANT TO GO? $20; $15 children. 212-731-0668. gallitheaternyc.com.

Broadway Playhouse: Lynn Ahrens & Stephen Flaherty

WHEN: Sunday, March 24, 11am WHERE: Merkin Hall at Kaufman Music Center, 129 W. 67th St., Upper West Side AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Your child may be picked to join the cast on stage to play games! WANT TO GO? $20. 212-501-3330. kaufmanmusiccenter.org.

Amore Opera Will Present English Version of Mozart’s Classic: ‘Cosi Fan Tutte’

WHEN: March 15-24, Fridays and select Thursdays and Saturdays, 7:30pm; Sundays, 2:30pm WHERE: Riverside Theatre at Riverside Church, 91 Claremont Ave., Morningside Heights AGES: All WHAT: Adapted into English and abridged, this will be a perfect introduction to opera. WANT TO GO? $45; $35 seniors, students, and children younger than 12; $35-$25 partial view; $35-$45 wheelchair space. 347-948-4588. trcnyc.org/theatre.

The Paper Bag Players

WHEN: Sunday, March 31, 11:30am-12:30pm WHERE: The Jewish Museum, 1109 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3-8 WHAT: See a giant dinosaur, dancing bears, and other surprises in a show honoring the 60th season of the troupe. WANT TO GO? $18; $14 members; free for children younger than 2. 212-423-3200. thejewishmuseum.org.

‘Addy & Uno’

WHEN: Through March 31: Sundays, 12pm WHERE: Theatre Row, 410 W. 42nd St., Midtown AGES: 3-8 WHAT: This musical comedy with puppets tells the story of a boy with autism who competes in his school’s math competition. WANT TO GO? $40. 212-239-6200. addyanduno.com.

Guillaume Pige & Theatre Re: ‘The Nature of Forgetting’

WHEN: March 23-31, Saturdays, 2pm and 7pm; Sundays, 12pm and 5pm WHERE: The New Victory Theater, 209 W. 42nd St., Midtown AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Childhood moments collide with momentous adult milestones in tangled threads of memory for Tom, a father experiencing early onset dementia. WANT TO GO? $17-42. 646-223-3010. tiltkidsfestival.org.

LC Kids Presents: The Adventures of Alvin Sputnik: Deep Sea Explorer WHEN: March 30-31, Saturday-Sunday, 2pm WHERE: Clark Studio Theater at Lincoln Center, 165 W. 65th St., 7th Floor, Columbus Circle AGES: 9-17 WHAT: This show uses live performance, puppetry, animation, and music to tell a tale of love at the end of the world. WANT TO GO? $25. 212-721-6500. lincolncenter.org.

‘Johannes Dokchtor Faust’

WHEN: March 21-April 7, Thursday-Saturday, 8pm; Sunday, 3pm WHERE: Theater for the New City, 155 First Ave., East Village AGES: 5 and older WHAT: The staging incorporates age-old technical tricks of Czech puppetry. WANT TO GO? $18; $15 seniors and students. 212-254-1109. theaterforthenewcity.net.

Okwui Okpokwasili ‘Adaku’s Revolt’

‘Last Stop on Market Street’

WHEN: March 14-24, see website for schedule WHERE: Abrons Arts Center, 466 Grand St., Lower East Side AGES: 5 and older WHAT: A young black girl revolts against imposed beauty standards and wears her hair naturally. WANT TO GO? $15-20. 212-598-0400. tiltkidsfestival.org.

WHEN: March 23-April 13, Saturday-Sunday, 10:30am WHERE: Linda Gross Theater, 336 W. 20th St., Chelsea AGES: All WHAT: A musical joy ride about finding beauty in everyday city life based on the picture book of the same name. WANT TO GO? $20; $15 children. 866-811-4111. atlantictheater.org.

Just Kidding: Red Yarn

‘Tales from the Shed’

WHEN: Saturday, March 30, 11am WHERE: Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway, Upper West Side AGES: 3 and older WHAT: See Red Yarn and his full cast of puppet critters, plus special guests. WANT TO GO? $17; $14 members. 212-864-5400. symphonyspace.org.

Galli’s: ‘The Three Little Pigs’

WHEN: March 30-31, Saturday-Sunday, 2pm WHERE: Galli Theater, 74 Warren St., Tribeca AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Gordy, Perkey, and Snoozy pigs must build houses of their own with the hope that the Wolf can’t blow them down. WANT TO GO? $20; $15 children. 212-731-0668. gallitheaternyc.com.

WHEN: March 2-April 13, Saturdays, 10:15am and 11:30am WHERE: Wetherby-Pembridge School, 7 E. 96th St., Upper East Side AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Enjoy interactive theater, puppetry, music, and theatrical magic. WANT TO GO? $15; $50 for 4. 614-270-9991. talesfromtheshed.brownpapertickets.com.

‘Pinkalicious’ the Musical

WHEN: Through May 18: select Saturdays, 11am WHERE: St. Luke’s Theatre, 308 W. 46th St., Midtown AGES: All WHAT: A musical based on the children’s book Pinkalicious. WANT TO GO? $49.50. 212-239-6200. vitaltheatre.org. ››

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Tween Primes, the MoMath Book Club for Tweens and Teens: ‘Chasing Vermeer’ by Blue Balliett

WHEN: Sunday, March 10, 5:30-6:30pm WHERE: National Museum of Mathematics, 11 E. 26th St., Nomad AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Discuss Chasing Vermeer by Blue Balliett. WANT TO GO? $15. 212-542-0566. momath.org.

Unlimited, MoMath’s Mix-n-Mingle Program for Students in Sixth-Ninth Grades WHEN: Sunday, March 10, 6:30-8pm WHERE: National Museum of Mathematics, 11 E. 26th St., Nomad AGES: 13-17 WHAT: Teens play games and logic puzzles, hang out, enjoy cookies and hot chocolate, and dance. WANT TO GO? $15 per student; $20 for two students. 212-542-0566. momath.org.

SMARTY PANTS Open Studio: Lower East Side Print Shop

WHEN: Saturday, March 2, 10:30am-3pm WHERE: Whitney Museum of American Art, 99 Gansevoort St., West Village AGES: All WHAT: Try silk screening and experiment with printmaking techniques that Andy Warhol used. WANT TO GO? $25; $18 seniors and students; free for children ages 18 and younger. 212-570-3600. whitney.org.

Little Guggs

WHEN: Wednesday, March 6, 11am-12pm WHERE: Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, 1071 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Explore art then create your own art in the studio. WANT TO GO? $30; $15 for members. 212-423-3618. guggenheim.org.

Math Encounters: ‘Space, Time, and the Fourth Dimension’ with Robbert Dijkgraaf FREE

WHEN: Wednesday, March 6, 4-5:30pm and 7-8:30pm WHERE: National Museum of Mathematics, 11 E. 26th St., Nomad AGES: All WHAT: Learn about time, the fourth dimension, and how it helps us understand fundamental questions in physics. WANT TO GO? 212-542-0566. momath.org.

Warhol Queer Teen Night: For LGBTQ+ Youth and Allies FREE WHEN: Friday, March 8, 4-6:30pm WHERE: Whitney Museum of American Art, 99 Gansevoort St., West Village AGES: 13-17 WHAT: LGBTQ+ youth and allies can enjoy art-making, performances, snacks, and tours of the Andy Warhol exhibit. WANT TO GO? 212-570-3600. whitney.org.

Folding Fun at MoMath with OrigamiUSA FREE

WHEN: Sunday, March 10, 11am-1pm WHERE: National Museum of Mathematics, 11 E. 26th St., Nomad AGES: All WHAT: An origami expert will teach simple origami models. WANT TO GO? $17; $14 students, seniors, and teens; free for children ages 12 and younger. 212-542-0566. momath.org.

March 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Family Afternoon: Pens & Poems—and Puppet Show

WHEN: Sunday, March 10, 1-4pm WHERE: The Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1000 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Create works of art inspired by the exhibition The Tale of Genji: A Japanese Classic Illuminated. WANT TO GO? $25; $17 seniors; $12 students; free for children younger than 12. 212-535-7710. metmuseum.org.

How to Solve the Rubik’s Cube All Six Sides! with Daniel Goodman and Daniel Rose-Levine

WHEN: Tuesday, March 12, 6-8pm WHERE: National Museum of Mathematics, 11 E. 26th St., Nomad AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Cubing champions share the mathematical secrets behind solving the Rubik’s Cube. WANT TO GO? $18. 212-542-0566. momath.org.

Caring for Your Newborn Baby

WHEN: Thursday, March 14, 6:30-9pm WHERE: Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan, 334 Amsterdam Ave., Upper West Side AGES: Adult WHAT: Discuss preparing the home for the baby’s arrival, circumcision and umbilical cord care, bathing and dressing, breastfeeding, and how to handle a colicky baby. WANT TO GO? $30 members; $40 public. 646-505-5708. jccmanhattan.org.

Montessori Math: Passage to Abstraction FREE

WHEN: Thursday, March 14, 7-8:30pm WHERE: Polis Montessori World School, 775 Columbus Ave., Upper West Side AGES: Adult WHAT: Parents learn about Montessori math materials and how children utilize these tools to master abstract math concepts. WANT TO GO? 917-388-1710. polis.school.

Transportation NYC

WHEN: Saturday, March 16, 10:30-11:45am WHERE: The Skyscraper Museum, 39 Battery Place, Battery Park City AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Learn about different modes of transportation before designing a way to get around the city. WANT TO GO? $5; $2.50 seniors and students; free for children younger than 12. 212-968-1961. skyscraper.org.

Watson Adventures: The Museum Strikes Back Scavenger Hunt for Star Wars Fans

WHEN: Saturday, March 16, 11am-1pm WHERE: American Museum of Natural History, 200 Central Park W., Upper West Side AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Explore the Museum of Natural History in search of artifacts that echo the characters, creatures, and planets of Star Wars. WANT TO GO? $29.50-$45. 877-946-4868. watsonadventures.com.

Sewer in a Suitcase Workshop for Kids

WHEN: Saturday, March 16, 11am-1pm WHERE: The Drawing Center, 35 Wooster St., Lower Manhattan AGES: All WHAT: The workshop demonstrates our sewer system in action, and teaches about urban watersheds, water infrastructure, and water pollution. WANT TO GO? $5. 212-219-2166. drawingcenter.org.

Stroller Tours at the Guggenheim Museum

WHEN: Tuesday, March 19, 3-4pm WHERE: Solomon R. Guggenheim Museum, 1071 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: 3-5 WHAT: This tour includes touchable objects, art-making, and adult conversation. WANT TO GO? $25; free for family members and Cool Culture families. 212-423-3618. guggenheim.org.

Family Fridays at MoMath presented by Two Sigma: ‘Mission Impossible’ with Zvezdelina Stankova FREE WHEN: Friday, March 29, 6:30-8pm WHERE: National Museum of Mathematics, 11 E. 26th St., Nomad AGES: All WHAT: Families create and direct armies of clones on an escape mission, based on a famous game with pebbles. WANT TO GO? 212-542-0566. momath.org.

Women of the Revolutionary War

WHEN: March 2-30, 1pm WHERE: Fraunces Tavern Museum, 54 Pearl St., Financial District AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Celebrate Women’s History Month with this tour of women who played key roles in the Revolutionary War. WANT TO GO? $7; $4 seniors, students, and children; free for children younger than 5. 212-425-1778. frauncestavernmuseum.org.

GeoGebra Day at MoMath!

WHEN: Saturday, March 30, 10am-5pm WHERE: National Museum of Mathematics, 11 E. 26th St., Nomad AGES: All WHAT: Learn how to use GeoGebra to build 3-D models or transform your photo into augmented reality. WANT TO GO? $25 each individual event; $45 all-day event ticket. 212-542-0566. momath.org.

WHAT: Kids can explore the story of germs in New York, complete with interactive art and historical artifacts. WANT TO GO? $18; $12 seniors and students; free for those 19 and younger. 347-441-9181. mcny.org.

Monthly Youth Stamp Club FREE

WHEN: Through May 18: select Saturdays, 10-11:30am WHERE: Collectors Club of New York, 22 E. 35th St., Murray Hill AGES: 9-17 WHAT: Stamp collecting is a hobby that provides learning opportunities about myriad topics. WANT TO GO? 212-683-0559. collectorsclub.org.

FUN FAIRS & FESTIVALS The 5th Annual New York City Drone Film Festival

WHEN: March 1-2, see website for schedule WHERE: Liberty Science Center, 222 Jersey City Blvd., Jersey City, NJ AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Celebrate the art of drone cinematography with flight demos, tech panels, and beginner drone school. WANT TO GO? $15-25. 201-200-1000. nycdronefilmfestival.com.

R&R Shabbat FREE

WHEN: Through March 16: select Saturdays, 2-5pm WHERE: Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan, 334 Amsterdam Ave., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Enjoy face painting, structured play and circle games with Ian and Lisa, art projects, community cinema, a theater show, a community concert, and snacks. WANT TO GO? 347-604-3964. jccmanhattan.org.

New York International Children’s Film Festival

WHEN: Through March 17: see website for schedule WHERE: Participating Venues Throughout New York City AGES: All WHAT: Presenting the best new film from across the globe, this year’s schedule includes Penguin Highway, Girls’ POV, My Extraordinary Summer with Tess, and Gordon & Patty. WANT TO GO? $14. nyicff.org.

35th Annual GreenThumb GrowTogether Conference FREE

WHEN: Saturday, March 30, 8am-4pm WHERE: Graduate Center of the City University of New York, 365 Fifth Ave., Murray Hill AGES: All WHAT: A day of workshops including food systems education, kids’ activities, vegetable growing techniques, and community garden design. WANT TO GO? 212-602-5300. bit.ly/GrowTogether2019. ››

Silhouettes: Why Do Buildings Take Different Shapes?

WHEN: Saturday, March 30, 10:30-11:45am WHERE: The Skyscraper Museum, 39 Battery Place, Battery Park City AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Learn why tall buildings are shaped differently and what factors affect a building’s silhouette, and make a craft. WANT TO GO? $5; $2.50 seniors and students; free for children younger than 12. 212-968-1961. skyscraper.org.

Germ City: Microbes and the Metropolis

WHEN: Through April 28: daily, 10am-6pm WHERE: Museum of the City of New York, 1220 Fifth Ave., East Harlem AGES: 5 and older BigAppleParent 37

School of Magic

WHEN: Through March 19: see website for schedule WHERE: Mission Solvers, 10 W. 25th St. (Inside Apple Seeds), Chelsea AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Enjoy exciting escape room games. WANT TO GO? $36. 646-902-1258. missionsolvers.com.

The 16th Annual Colon Cancer Challenge

WHEN: Sunday, March 24, 8am WHERE: Randall’s Island, 20 Randall’s Island Park, Randall’s Island AGES: All WHAT: Raise public awareness and contribute to the fight against this disease. WANT TO GO? $15-$45. 914-305-6674. coloncancerfoundation.org.

Open Play

WHEN: Through March 31: see website for schedule WHERE: City Treehouse, 129A W. 20th St., Chelsea AGES: 3-8 WHAT: This two-story tree house includes a secret star cave, special crawl spaces, and a see-through floor. WANT TO GO? $30; $20 children younger than 1. 212-255-2050. citytreehouse.com.

DreamWorks Trolls The Experience

WHEN: Through May 31: Monday-Friday, 10am-8pm; Saturday-Sunday, 9am-8pm WHERE: 218 W. 57th St., Midtown AGES: 3-12 WHAT: Guided by a rainbow path, visitors will sing, dance, hug, and celebrate alongside DreamWorks Trolls. WANT TO GO? $40. 800-844-3545. trollstheexperience.com.

MOVERS & SHAKERS The Amazing Metropolitan Museum of Art Scavenger Hunt

WHEN: Sunday, March 3, 2-5pm WHERE: Metropolitan Museum of Art, 1000 Fifth Ave., Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: A series of clues leads you around the Met. WANT TO GO? $25 plus admission ($25; $17 seniors; $12 students; free for children ages 12 and younger). 718-344-8962. metmuseum.org.

Dad & Baby Yoga

WHEN: Sunday, March 3, 11am-12pm WHERE: Karma Kids Yoga, 25 W. 23rd St., 3rd floor, Nomad AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Practice yoga with your little ones. WANT TO GO? $25. 646-638-1444. karmakidsyoga.com.

Dads Meet-Up

Cerebral Palsy Soccer FREE

WHEN: Through June 15: see website for schedule WHERE: West End Secondary School, 277 W. 61st St., Upper West Side AGES: 5-17 WHAT: Enjoy soccer training for kids with cerebral palsy, stroke, or traumatic brain injury who can walk and run independently. WANT TO GO? 347-328-3390. cpsoccer.us.

ONCE UPON A TIME Twinkle Story Time FREE

WHEN: Saturday, March 2, 10:30am WHERE: Bank Street Bookstore, 2780 Broadway, Bloomingdale AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Katharine Holabird reads from her new series, Twinkle. WANT TO GO? 212-678-1654. bankstreetbooks.com.

One Voice Book Signing with Sylvia Walton FREE

WHEN: Sunday, March 17, 10-11:30am WHERE: Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan, 334 Amsterdam Ave., Upper West Side AGES: 3-5, adult WHAT: Enjoy brunch, play, and hang out with fellow dads. WANT TO GO? $20. 646-505-5708. jccmanhattan.org.

WHEN: Saturday, March 2, 4-6pm WHERE: Bank Street Bookstore, 2780 Broadway, Bloomingdale AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Join Sylvia Walton for a signing and reading of her new book about bullying, One Voice. WANT TO GO? 212-678-1654. bankstreetbooks.com.

Parent & Baby Yoga FREE

A Dr. Seuss Celebration FREE

WHEN: Through March 18: Mondays, 1-2:15pm and 2:30-3:45pm WHERE: Battery Park City Parks, 6 River Terrace, Battery Park AGES: Newborn to 2, adult WHAT: Enjoy yoga in a safe, supportive environment while learning postures and exercises specifically suited for new parents and babies. WANT TO GO? 212-267-9700. bpcparks.org. 38

March 2019 | nymetroparents.com

WHEN: Saturday, March 2, 11am-2pm WHERE: Highbridge Recreation Center, 2301 Amsterdam Ave., Washington Heights AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Celebrate the legacy of Dr. Seuss with activities such as pin the hat on the cat, fish bowl toss, and reading his stories. WANT TO GO? 212-927-2012. nyc.gov/parks.

Harmonica Sunbeam Drag Queen Story Hour FREE

WHEN: Saturday, March 2, 10am WHERE: French Institute, FIAF Haskell Library, 22 E. 60th St., Lenox Hill AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Kids will hear stories, sing songs, and play in a setting that gives kids positive queer role models. WANT TO GO? 212-355-6100. tiltkidsfestival.org.

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Stories & Songs FREE

WHEN: Through March 6, Wednesdays, 9:40-10:20am, 10:3011:10am, and 11:20am-12pm WHERE: Battery Park City Parks, 6 River Terrace, Battery Park AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Share the experience of live musical performance and creative storytelling. WANT TO GO? 212-267-9700. bpcparks.org.

Saturday Morning Storytelling With the Hans Christian Andersen Storytellers FREE

WHEN: Saturday, March 9, 11am WHERE: Scandinavia House, 58 Park Ave., Murray Hill AGES: All WHAT: Hear fairy and folk tales and fantastic adventures from Scandinavia. WANT TO GO? 212-779-3587. scandinaviahouse.org.

All About Families Storytime FREE

WHEN: Friday, March 15, 10:30am WHERE: Mount Vernon Hotel Museum & Garden, 421 E. 61st St., Lenox Hill AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Hear stories about families and create pictures and puppets of family members. WANT TO GO? 212-838-6878. mvhm.org.

Story Time with Queen Isabella of Medieval Times

WHEN: Saturday, March 16, 2-2:45pm and 3-3:45pm WHERE: Children’s Museum of Manhattan, 212 W. 83rd St., Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: Join Queen Isabella for a story reading. Stay for a photo with her and a royal Knight. WANT TO GO? $14; $11 seniors; $11 visitors with disabilities; free for members and children under 1. 212-721-1223. cmom.org.

Storytime FREE

WHEN: March 2-16, Saturday-Sunday, 11am and 2pm WHERE: Strand Book Store, 828 Broadway, Union Square AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Enjoy stories and crafts with Elmo, Doc McStuffins, or Curious George. WANT TO GO? 212-473-1452. strandbooks.com.

Early Literacy: Baby Storytime FREE

WHEN: March 8-22, Fridays, 11:30am-12pm WHERE: New York Public Library, 115th Street branch, 203 W. 115th St., Upper West Side AGES: Newborn to 2 WHAT: Enjoy books, songs, and rhymes, and meet other babies. WANT TO GO? 212-666-9393. nypl.org/locations/115th-street.

Sunday Story Time

WHEN: March 3-31, select Sundays, 11:30am WHERE: New-York Historical Society, 170 Central Park W., Upper West Side AGES: 3-8 WHAT: Hear stories and poems, sing songs, and make a craft. WANT TO GO? $21; $16 seniors, educators, and active military; $13 students; $6 children ages 5-13; free for children younger than 4. 212-873-3400. nyhistory.org.

SPECIAL NEEDS Inclusive stART for Children with a Physical Disability

WHEN: Sunday, March 3, 9:30-10:45am WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Soho AGES: Newborn to 5 WHAT: Children are encouraged to self-regulate through individual projects and are supported through collaborative projects to gain important social skills. WANT TO GO? $13; free for children younger than 1 and CMA members. 212-274-0986. cmany.org.

Stripes Media Lab for Children with an Autism Spectrum Disorder WHEN: Saturday, March 9, 9:30-10:45am WHERE: Children’s Museum of the Arts, 103 Charlton St., Soho AGES: 5 and older WHAT: Families incorporate a variety of animation and sound techniques while exploring various art mediums. WANT TO GO? $13; free for children younger than 1 and CMA members. 212-274-0986. cmany.org. ››

BigAppleParent 39

DANCE PARTY New York City Ballet Children’s Workshops

WHEN: Through March 3: Saturday-Sunday, check schedule for details WHERE: Samuel B & David Rose Building, 165 W. 65th St., 7th Floor, Upper West Side AGES: 3-8 WHAT: NYCB Teaching Artists guide children in a ballet warm-up and movement combination, concluding in a performance. WANT TO GO? $14. 212-496-0600. nycballet.com.

Ballet Contemporaneo de Camaguey of Cuba

WHEN: Wednesday, March 13, 7pm WHERE: Kaye Playhouse, 495 Park Ave., Midtown AGES: 5 and older WHAT: This show is directed by Cuban native Pedro Ruiz, former 21-year star of Ballet Hispanico. WANT TO GO? $15. 212-772-4448. hunter.cuny.edu/kayeplayhouse/calendar.

Valentina Kozlova International Ballet Competition

ANIMAL LOVERS Unicorn Yoga Rainbow Adventure

WHEN: Friday, March 8, 6:30-8pm WHERE: Karma Kids Yoga, 25 W. 23rd St., 3rd floor, Nomad AGES: 5-8 WHAT: Kids will embark on a yoga adventure in search of a unicorn. WANT TO GO? $50. 646-638-1444. karmakidsyoga.com.

Central Park Tours: Discovery Walks for Families: Time Travelers FREE

WHEN: March 19-23, see website for schedule WHERE: Symphony Space, 2537 Broadway, Upper West Side AGES: 13-17 WHAT: More than 100 dancers from around the world will perform before judges. WANT TO GO? Costs vary for different events. 212-864-5400. symphonyspace.org.

Ballet Hispanico’s 2019 Season at The Joyce Featuring 2 World Premieres WHEN: March 26-31, see website for schedule WHERE: The Joyce Theater, 151 W. 46th St., 8th Floor, Midtown West AGES: 9 and older WHAT: Explore the vast connections between the Latin and Asian diasporas. WANT TO GO? $10. 646-765-4773. joyce.org.

Lori Belilove & The Isadora Duncan Dance Company

WHEN: March 2-9, Saturdays, 11am-12:30pm WHERE: Charles A. Dana Discovery Center, 110th Street between Lenox and Fifth Avenues, Central Park AGES: 5-12 WHAT: Discover why Central Park is a sanctuary for animals, while learning about the architecture, landscapes, and ecosystems. WANT TO GO? 212-310-6600. centralparknyc.org.

WHEN: March 28-31, Thursday-Friday, 7:30pm; Sunday, 3pm WHERE: Isadora Duncan Dance Foundation Studios, 141 W. 26 St., Chelsea AGES: 13-17 WHAT: An intimate performance of dances by an ensemble of eight dancers to live music. WANT TO GO? $30; 2 for $50. 212-691-5040. isadoraduncan.org.

Family Wildlife Workshop with Bobby Horvath FREE

HOLIDAY FUN

WHEN: Saturday, March 16, 2-3:30pm WHERE: Highbridge Recreation Center, 2301 Amsterdam Ave., Washington Heights AGES: All WHAT: Get up close and personal with live animals. WANT TO GO? nyc.gov/parks.

The Butterfly Conservatory: Tropical Butterflies Alive in Winter

WHEN: Through May 27: daily, 10am-5:45pm WHERE: American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West at 79th Street, Upper West Side AGES: All WHAT: This exhibition features up to 500 live butterflies housed in a vivarium that approximates their natural habitat. WANT TO GO? $28; $22.50 students and seniors; $16.50 children ages 2-12. 212-769-5800. amnh.org.

March 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Shabbat Sing-Along FREE

WHEN: Friday, March 1, 9-9:25 am WHERE: Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan, 334 Amsterdam Ave., Upper West Side AGES: 3-5 WHAT: Little ones can welcome Shabbat with singing and dancing. WANT TO GO? 646-505-5708. jccmanhattan.org.

Fastelavn Workshop

WHEN: Saturday, March 2, 2pm WHERE: Scandinavia House, 58 Park Ave., Murray Hill AGES: 3 and older WHAT: An afternoon of dress-up, traditional games, goodies, and songs for “Nordic Halloween.” WANT TO GO? $10; free for ASF members. 212-779-3587. scandinaviahouse.org.

Infants & Young Children Family Shabbat Dinner

WHEN: Friday, March 8, 5:30-7pm WHERE: Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan, 334 Amsterdam Ave., Upper West Side AGES: 3-5, adult WHAT: Celebrate Shabbat with an interactive sing-along, blessings, and dinner. WANT TO GO? $18; free for children younger than 2. 646-5055708. jccmanhattan.org.

Upside-Down Purim Shabbat Dinner

WHEN: Friday, March 15, 6pm WHERE: 92nd Street Y, 1395 Lexington Ave., Upper East Side AGES: All WHAT: Celebrate with blessings and singing, followed by food, dancing, costume parades, art projects, and hamentashen. WANT TO GO? $18 and up. 212-415-5500. 92y.org.

Purim Celebration FREE

WHEN: Thursday, March 21, 3:15-4pm WHERE: Marlene Meyerson JCC Manhattan, 334 Amsterdam Ave., Upper West Side AGES: 3-5, adult WHAT: Enjoy holiday songs, treats, and crafting. WANT TO GO? 646-505-5708. jccmanhattan.org. www.eyelevelny.com Eye Level of East Village 437 E 12 Street, New York, NY 10009 | 212-260-8020 | eastvillage@myeyelevel.com Eye Level of Tribeca 104 Reade Street New York, NY 10013 | 212-346-7737 | tribeca@myeyelevel.com Eye Level of Upper East Side 307 East 84th Street, New York, NY 10009 | 212-737-334 | uppereastside@myeyelevel.com

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BigAppleParent 41

family life insurance

While Fido is part of the family, some insurance companies may cite having a pet as the reason they canceled your coverage.

Could You Lose Your Coverage?

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There are a handful of reasons an insurance company could decide to drop you—but many of them are avoidable. By Barbara Russo

wning a home can be a lot of work. And part of that work is making sure you have the appropriate insurance in case any accidents, natural disasters, or other devastating issues arise. You might think once you buy your home and take out a policy, you’re set for life. But that’s not necessarily the case. It’s a good idea to look at your coverage every so often and see what’s changed, because the reality is an insurance company can drop a client at any time for any number reasons they see fit. Usually, a company needs a legitimate business reason to cancel your insurance. Some surprising factors that play a role in an insurer’s decision to end or refuse to renew a policy include geography and roof issues. Even owning a pet can result in loss of coverage. With the homeownership rate on the rise nationally, jumping to 63.9 percent in 2017 after the last annual increase in 2004, it’s important for homeowners to know their policies, what’s covered, and what may cause that coverage to be canceled. Below are some of the most common reasons insurance companies may drop a client.

Multiple Claims Filed

Don’t take advantage of your own policy. Filing too many claims through your insurance company may cause them to flag you, putting your coverage at risk. 42

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“If you file multiple claims on the same issue over and over, that may create a problem,” says Anthony Marino, a licensed real estate broker in New York City. Car claims are considered part of this excess, too, if your auto and home insurance are bundled under the same carrier. “Frequent auto claims may affect the home insurance you have connected with it,” Marino adds.

Your Roof is Not Properly Maintained

Look up if you want to keep insurance costs down and minimize the chances of your policy being canceled. The roof of your house is judged by insurance companies when they approve a home owner for a new policy or renewal. Generally, a roof is considered secure for up to 30 years, but after that, it’s more susceptible to water leaks in the home. For this reason, it’s important to know the age of your roof, and keep all documentation and paperwork about repairs and replacements in case your insurance company asks for it. Tip: Increase the lifespan of your roof by cleaning out the gutters once in a while. If they’re clogged or broken, water can back up into pipes, seep into eaves, and result in a rotting roof. This is especially important if your house is surrounded by trees that shed twigs and leaves onto the roof.

Pet Ownership

Sparky is part of the family, but make sure your insurance carrier feels the same way. Many companies cover pets in a policy’s liability coverage in case the animal injures a human or damages another person’s property. But some animals may be excluded because they are considered “exotics,” such as rabbits and snakes. “Make sure there is no fine print in your home insurance that prohibits pets or certain breeds of pets,” Marino advises. “Many animals are not covered or will be considered a risk. Make sure to give your policy a glance if you are planning on owning one.” Tip: Curious about what animals are illegal to keep as pets in NYC? Check with the Veterinary Medical Association of New York City. You’ll be surprised to see which cuddly (and not-so-cuddly) creatures made the list!

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The Company No Longer Covers Your Area

Insurance companies frequently review their coverage areas. There is always a chance they may decide to drop coverage in certain areas. “This may be because there is an abundance of claims in the area, and it’s too expensive for the company to continue to do business there,” Marino says. “Remember your rates are affected by other people in your area.”

Failure to Pay

This one is the simplest way to avoid your policy being canceled. If you don’t keep up with your payments and pay your premiums, you can be dropped. Nonpayment is one of the most common reasons a policy is dropped, according to agents at State Farm Insurance. They recommend avoiding nonpayment issues by setting up auto payments. Tip: Many mortgage companies allow—and even encourage you—to roll your insurance and tax dues into your monthly payments, greatly reducing your chance of failing to pay.

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Death of the Resident(s)

If a house is no longer occupied, it would no longer be insured. Some families don’t want to take on the work of owning or insuring the house, especially if they live out of state, so the insurance lapses. To prevent this type of cancellation, State Farm encourages their clients to make sure wills are in order, especially if there is little or no family left.

How to Avoid Losing Your Coverage

There are steps a home owner can take to help avoid being dropped by their insurance carrier. For starters, revisit your policy annually to make sure you’re fully covered, especially if your house has gone through some wear and tear, or if you’ve expanded or renovated. There are some quick and easy home improvements you can make to not only stay on good terms with your insurance company, but possibly result in premium discounts, according to Consumer Reports. These include installing a security system and smoke detectors, and adding a generator to help ensure your electrical systems work in the event of a power outage. Another tip is to comparison shop every few years for new insurance carriers. Businesses, deals, and discounts change, so you don’t want to miss out on opportunities to save money.

Find the ideal candidate today!

Barbara Russo is a freelance writer who holds a bachelor’s degree in communications from the City University of New York. She enjoys playing guitar, following current events, and hanging out with her pet rabbits.

BigAppleParent 43

family life home

Decorate on a Dime

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Rethinking your home’s décor can often get costly, but our experts’ tips are here to keep you on budget. By Lambeth Hochwald

croll through Pinterest or flip through the pages of your favorite home décor magazine and it might seem like it will cost a fortune to redecorate your home. We’re here to say it’s time to rethink that notion. In fact, these days it’s absolutely possible to spend very little to spruce up every room in your house. Read on for our nine expert-driven tips.

Look at your rooms with a new eye.

Before you start shopping, consider this: Your rooms may just need a little rearranging using your existing furniture. After all, a mere shuffling around of your pieces, including furniture, wall art, and even those photographs that seem dull and tired, may work wonders to brighten your space exponentially. Tip: If you have a friend with a great eye, invite her over and ask her for some quick suggestions.

Use mementos and heirlooms to decorate inexpensively.

Whether it’s a vintage collection of blue glass or a set of framed photos of your grandma’s farmhouse, these items are not only inexpensive additions to your home décor, they’re fun, too. “These tell stories and make for great conversation starters,” says Alix Greenberg, founder and CEO of ArtSugar, a contemporary art e-commerce company in New York City. “Best of all they add a warm and personal touch to your space.” 44

March 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Cherry-pick your favorites.

If you’re a collector of certain items, whether vintage milk bottles or antique advertising signs, displaying them can add a truly personal touch to your space. However, you want to be careful to avoid veering into a space that looks overly cluttered. Tip: To avoid the feeling that your rooms are packed with stuff and attain a more streamlined feel to your home, cherry-pick your favorite items and display them. Put the rest in storage until you’re ready to switch them out.

Consider a DIY craft project.

Whether you believe you’re crafty—or not—there are a few easy craft projects you might want to consider doing next time you have a free weekend. Why not paint an ugly, chipped bookshelf in a bright new color? Or maybe sew a set of slipcovers to replace a faded sofa set or recover tired or ripped dining cushions with a bright, new fabric.

Browse your local thrift shop.

Shopping secondhand is a no-brainer when it comes to home decor and furniture since these stores are the best places to find gently used, quality pieces for less. Plus, you won’t skimp on style as you’re trying to save money, says Andrea Woroch, a nationally recognized consumer and money-saving expert.

Tip: Scout your local thrift shop on the regular to pick up furniture that will be far less expensive than shopping for brandnew items.

Learn what each store specializes in.

Some stores are best for furniture bargains while others are notable for high-quality accessories sold at inexpensive prices. Take World Market as an example: “What I love best about this store is [its] unique selection of home décor pieces,” says Jeanine Boiko, a real estate salesperson in Wantagh.“No matter what your style is, World Market has something for everyone. My favorite pieces are the black villa stripe dishtowels and blue bistro stripe placemats. Both styles work well for [different] kitchen and dining room types, including modern, farmhouse, or country.”

Shop discount stores.

Retailers such as HomeGoods, TJ Maxx, and Marshalls are known for their quality pieces that are sold at a major discount. These are great places to shop if you’re looking to perk up your decorative accessories, Boiko says. “For example, I love the throw pillows at HomeGoods,” she says. “Some retailers make you purchase the pillow cover and cushion separately, which can add up quickly whereas HomeGoods typically offers several options of throw pillows that are stylish and budget-friendly.” Tip: Save more by scoping out the clearance section and consider this: “Speak with a sales associate to find out when new shipments arrive,” Woroch says. “These deliveries are usually on the same days each week. This way you can be among the first to check out the new arrivals before they sell out (since inventory is often limited.”)

Scope out end-of-season sales.

Timing is everything, and this is especially true when it comes to shopping for home décor items at a discount. For example, you can pick up patio furniture at a huge savings toward the end of summer, Woroch says. Or pick up holiday items at deep discounts once those holiday seasons are done. “It’s always a great idea to time your shopping right to save big,” she says.

Browse garage sales.

Whether your town is known for its garage sales, tag sales, or stoop sales, you’re bound to find bargains if you make it a goal to stop and take a look whenever you happen upon one. “You never know what

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you can find at a garage sale, and furniture is easy to repurpose, refinish, or recover,” Woroch says. “I always suggest giving garage sale hunting a try, especially if you’re on a tight budget.” Tip: Sites like Facebook Marketplace make it easy to shop used home decor locally. You can adjust your search based on your city and the distance you’re willing to travel to pick up whatever you’re looking for, Woroch says. “You can easily chat with the seller via Messenger to discuss details, see pictures, and negotiate the price. Plus, the social [media] aspect makes you feel safe since you can see who you are dealing with and possibly even have mutual friends,” she adds. Lambeth Hochwald is a New York City-based journalist covering trends, relationships, and life in New York City.

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raising kids baby

Rooming with Baby

›› While it may seem like it’s more for convenience, sharing your room with your infant has more benefits than easy nighttime feedings. By Anja Webb

ne of the aspects of living in the New York area can mean limited space for many families. Between negotiating who gets what part of the one-bedroom and figuring out how you’re going to squeeze yet another toy in your apartment, living in close quarters can be a struggle. This limited space often causes parents and their babies to share a room. However, even for those who live in suburbs or who have more spacious living situations, many families feel more comfortable sharing a sleeping space with their infant. Regardless of where you live, it’s likely you’ll end up room sharing in the early months. Luckily, there’s a silver lining to sleeping in the same room as your infant. Sharing a room with your newborn can actually have many benefits, and it’s recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics for at least the first three months, if not the first year, of your little one’s life in order to reduce the risk of sleep-related death and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome. Keeping your baby within arm’s reach of your bed can actually lower the risk of SIDS by up to 50 percent, according to the AAP. Here’s what you need to know when preparing to room share with the newest member of your family.

What is SIDS?

Sudden Infant Death Syndrome is defined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention as “the sudden and unexpected 46

March 2019 | nymetroparents.com

death of a baby less than 1 year old in which the cause was not obvious before investigation.” Most cases of SIDS occur during sleep or in the child’s sleep area, according to the CDC, which is one of the reasons why it’s so important to keep your baby close at nighttime or during naps. So how does room sharing help prevent SIDS? This could be because it allows parents to respond to their infant’s needs in a timelier fashion, according to Leslie Solomonian, B.S., a doctor of naturopathic medicine with an emphasis on pediatric care and professor at the Canadian College of Naturopathic Medicine. Newborns are still learning how to regulate their autonomic functions—the ability to normalize their body temperature, heart rate, breathing rate, sleep cycles, and more—and quick responsiveness can help prevent issues related to the autonomic functions that could be potential causes for SIDS, Solomonian says.

How to Room Share Properly

As previously mentioned, when sharing a room with an infant it’s important to keep your child within arm’s reach, ideally in a basinet or crib next to your bed. Your newborn’s sleep space should follow basic safety guidelines, including ensuring her sleep space is devoid of all soft or fluffy materials such as blankets or stuffed animals, her mattress is firm, and she’s dressed lightly for sleep, according to the AAP, in order to avoid suffocation or overheating.

Additionally, babies should not share a room with parents who are smokers, says Leigh Anne O’Connor, media liaison for Le Leche League of New York, lactation consultation, and mother of three. “If you have one cigarette, it takes twenty-four hours for you to not be exhaling the carcinogens,” O’Connor says. These chemicals are especially dangerous for babies and should be strictly avoided. It’s important to note that the AAP recommendation is not co-sleeping. “There’s tons of evidence on the benefits of room sharing and sometimes it’s extrapolated to co-sleeping or bed sharing,” Solomonian says. “And that’s a little bit controversial because if a parent is co-sleeping with a child or bed sharing, there’s a risk that they could roll over on the child or they could suffocate the infant.” Additionally, most parents sleep with pillows, blankets, and/or soft mattresses that make their bed an unsafe sleep surface for babies.

Other Benefits of Room Sharing

Aside from the safety benefits of room sharing, there are myriad emotional and social benefits of being physically close with your newborn. “It allows breast-feeding to be more effective,” Solomonian says. “So, when baby’s in another room and mom doesn’t hear the baby fussing, there’s a bit of a delay in terms of responding to the baby’s needs to nurse.” By being able to feed the infant sooner, parents can teach their child his needs can be met in a timely fashion without needing to scream at the top of his lungs or wail for prolonged periods of time. This can help minimize fussiness and excessive crying. Aside from breast-feeding benefits, room sharing also helps with “reducing stress because parents are probably getting more sleep, they’re more connected to their babies, and that promotes a lot of those healthy neurotransmitters and hormones in the body as opposed to the stress hormones,” according to Solomonian. In other words, being with your baby can help make you feel closer.

Drawbacks of Room Sharing

Room sharing may seem like the perfect sleeping arrangement, but, realistically, caring for a newborn will force you to adjust certain aspects of your life, and room sharing is no different. Your baby will have different sleeping patterns and bedtime needs than you or your partner. Most newborns sleep between 16 and 17 hours a day, but usually only in 1- to 2-hour increments, according to the AAP. This inevitably makes for an irregular sleeping schedule for parents. This difference in sleep patterns can result in displacement of popular pre-bedtime activities for parents like reading or watching TV in bed. The light and sound produced can keep the baby awake and disrupt her sleeping pattern, O’Connor says. However, this doesn’t mean your nighttime hobbies are gone for good. “If the parents want to do something that involves lights and noise, they can go somewhere else,” O’Connor says. For couples who are worried that sharing a room with their baby will impact their relationship in terms of physical intimacy, O’Connor recommends going to another room or dropping your little one off with a babysitter for an evening. Additionally, it’s important to remember that part of parental intimacy is “being kind to each other throughout the day, and offering help, and not being stressed,” Solomonian says. “Intimacy happens in all sorts of ways besides sex.” Ultimately, there are a lot of ways in which families can manage their bedtime routines and sleeping arrangements, whether that’s moving the baby into the parents’ room or vice versa. “There’s not one way to do it and there’s not one way that must be done (besides being safe),” O’Connor says. “Each family has to do what works best for them.”

Professional services

Your local guide to tutors, teachers, lawyers, financial planners, and other professionals LEGAL SERVICES ANDREW COHEN, ESQ., LAW OFFICES OF ANDREW M. COHEN 250 W. 57th St., Suite 1216 212-244-0595 1100 Franklin Ave., Suite 305, Garden City 516-877-0595 amcohenlaw.com; ac@amcohenlaw.com The Law Offices of Andrew M. Cohen can help you achieve your objectives through careful special needs legal planning, regardless of the size of your estate. All clients are provided with high-quality service at a reasonable cost. SHANNON MCNULTY, ESQ. - LAW OFFICES OF SHANNON P. MCNULTY L.L.C. 1270 Sixth Ave., 7th Floor 212-431-7526 mcnulty-law.com shannon@mcnulty-law.com Attorney Shannon McNulty provides convenient, high-quality estate planning services for busy New York City parents. Ms. McNulty received her law degree from Georgetown Law and her LL.M. in Taxation from NYU School of Law. SPECIAL NEEDS ANDREW COHEN, ESQ., LAW OFFICES OF ANDREW M. COHEN 250 W. 57th St., Suite 1216 212-244-0595 1100 Franklin Ave., Suite 305, Garden City 516-877-0595 amcohenlaw.com ac@amcohenlaw.com The Law Offices of Andrew M.

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raising kids teen

Conversations to Have with Your Teen About Dating ››

Nervous? Uncomfortable? Shy? Imagine how they must feel. By Karen Lo

f the thought of talking to your kids about dating or having “the talk” makes you wince, you wouldn’t be the first. And maybe you’ve picked up on a mutual feeling of “anything but that” from the young adults in your family. Good thing you’re not alone! For both parents and kids, it’s just part of growing up. Being able to have frank and informative conversations with your children as they take on more responsibilities in the world is the job of every parent. At some point, you might talk to them about filing taxes or applying for scholarships—but probably even sooner than that, you’ll have to talk to them about dating. So then, where and when should you start? In fact, it’s much easier for parents and teens to have “the talk” when it’s broken down into a bunch of smaller discussions. “Talking with teens about dating and sex shouldn’t be one big conversation,” says Jill Whitney, a licensed marriage and family therapist, workshop leader, and author based in Connecticut. “It’s much easier on everyone to have many talks over many years. Dating and sex are complex, multifaceted topics, and each topic merits its own conversation. Keeping them brief is also less overwhelming.” As for all the ground you’ll want to cover, it’s helpful to have some guidance on what to bring up. Read on for some of the topics to check off your list.

March 2019 | nymetroparents.com

Learn what dating means to your teen.

Readiness to date depends on your child’s level of maturity and also what “dating” means in your community and your child’s peer group, according to Whitney. Sometimes dating means daily text exchanges and little or no time together in real life. Dating might mean going to the movies with a group of friends or spending a lot of 1-on-1 time together. A young teen might be ready for one version of dating and not for the other.

Find out what’s going on at your teen’s school.

Ask teens what they think about situations at school, Whitney recommends. What happened when those two students broke up? Did they treat each other well? What does your teen think about the sexual language or situations in music or movies? Does it fit real life? Does it reflect the kind of relationship they’d like to have? What do they think about gender roles and expectations at their school? What’s different for guys and girls? Do they think that’s fair? The important thing, Whitney says, is “even if your teen doesn’t answer your questions, it’ll get their gears turning. It also shows that you’re willing to talk when they’re ready.”

Ask about what’s happening online.

Parents’ level of involvement with kids’ use of technology depends partly on their ages. Though you should limit your pre-teen’s Internet and technology access as well as know their passwords, as they get older and demonstrate the ability to make good decisions, they can have more autonomy. You want to transition kids to greater independence as they get closer to college or the working world. That being said, of course, we can’t ignore that kids, especially young adults, tend to be more tech-savvy than parents. All you can do about this is realize you can’t control everything they do online. That’s why it’s essential to talk regularly about online risks and choices, Whitney counsels. Explain that while sexting may feel fun and flirty, it carries real risks. Make sure kids know that anything they post online is forever, and encourage them to imagine how embarrassing that could be. Emphasize that you expect them to treat others kindly both online and in real life. Moreover, talk with your kids about the unhealthy tendency for all of us to be tied to devices, ask for their input, then announce limitations that work for your family. The best solution is regular device-free times in the day, where everyone, parents included, is away from their phones—especially if texting non-stop is your teen’s idea of dating.

Remind your teens that friendships are important, too. Although the idea of their kids dating can be scary to parents, dating is important for young people for many reasons. “Dating helps young people develop relationship skills and learn about themselves and what matters to them,” Whitney says. “Especially in a time where so much interaction is online, there’s real value in learning to connect offline with another person.” To that end, remind your teenager that their friendships still deserve care and attention. As they navigate their love lives, their friendships are likely to change and go through growing pains. As they grow up, you’ll also get to know your children’s best friends. Talk to your kids about dividing their social time wisely, between their partners, friends, and whatever after-school activities they’re involved in.

Ensure your teen knows about safe sex.

It was Kylie Jenner’s pregnancy video on YouTube, “To Our Daughter,” that led to an impromptu check-in between Eirene Heidelberger and her now 14-year-old son about safe sex. The video, uploaded on Feb. 4, 2018, announced the birth of Jenner’s daughter with her boyfriend, Travis Scott, when they were 20 and 25, respectively. “He was like, ‘I can’t believe they had a baby. They’re so young!’” “I was like, ‘No kidding—you know how to use condoms, right?’” “He was like, ‘Yeah mom, I know.’” Heidelberger, a certified parenting coaching specialist who founded GIT Mom (Get It Together, Mom), is a mother of three sons. Her oldest, the 14-year-old, keeps his parents relatively in the loop about his weekly movie dates with his girlfriend. When it comes to talking to her son about sensitive subjects, Heidelberger has a simple approach that works for her. “Ask one basic question, and just stop talking.” Her advice is to let them structure the conversation, and that means encouraging both their questions for you and the information they already know. Finally, Heidelberger says, have an exit strategy! Think about the way you’d like to end the conversation, then be ready to gracefully leave the room and move on with your day.

Keep in mind the differences between sons and daughters. Most of the messages you’ll convey about sex and dating should be the same for kids of any gender: Treat others with respect, be kind, “no” means “no,” relationships should be balanced. But given the cultural messages kids get, you’ll want to emphasize different things to boys than to girls. For girls, stress that they have every right to say “no” to anything sexual or romantic that doesn’t feel right to them. They can also say “yes” when the time comes, but they shouldn’t feel pressured to move faster than they want to. For boys, do what you can to offset cultural pressures to prove their masculinity by having sex and being tough. Boys have tender feelings just like everyone else—make sure your son knows it’s normal to care about romantic partners, and to be kind and gentle.

Talk about how to treat romantic partners.

It’s important for parents to talk with teens about how you expect them to treat other people, especially romantic partners. Whitney says she found that teens really want guidance from their parents about this in her research with young adults. Don’t lecture, but do tell them what you believe and why, she advises.

Reiterate consent is everything and more.

The #MeToo movement has made teens much more aware of consent as an issue, but many of them are confused about what consent looks like in practice, Whitney says. Be sure your teen, of any gender, knows that when a partner says “no” or expresses reluctance about any sexual activity, they need to stop. Pressuring someone is not okay. Kids need to know that they have every right to say “no” and be taken seriously. Boys, especially, need to know that failing to respect someone’s “no” can have legal ramifications and does serious emotional harm to the other person, Whitney advises. If he wants to be a good guy, he needs to believe his partner when she says “no.” The time is right only when both people say an enthusiastic “yes.”

Explain dating and financial responsibility.

Okay, so now that you’ve talked to your kids about all those other difficult and thought-provoking topics, don’t forget to talk about money. Financial responsibility and dating go hand-inhand. So whether your teenager has a job or an allowance, now’s a good time to touch base about their finances. In Heidelberger’s words, “if you want to have this social life, you need to pay for part of it.” When you start to have these important talks within your family, you will, undoubtedly, feel awkward at first. But as with everything, it gets easier with practice. One way to start these conversations, Whitney offers, is to say, “I just want to be on the record that…” or “You probably already know this, but I want to make sure…” However you start, it’s much more important to talk openly than to say everything perfectly. Growing up means something different to every new generation of young adults. As your children come of age, make your home a place where they can experience those differences without judgement—like, for example, the way they might prefer to text you rather than answer your calls. Preparing for this stretch of parenting can be stressful—but at least you don’t have to be a teenager again. Karen Lo is a writer living in Brooklyn.

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4 E. 90th St. (150 W. 83rd St. for 2018-19 only) 212-641-0260 ianyc.org info@ianyc.org The International Academy of New York is multicultural and diverse, developing culturally astute, confident, and empathetic students

TriBeCa Community School

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March 2019 | nymetroparents.com

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244 W. 14th St. 212-206-1137 pusteblumenyc.org info@pusteblumenyc.org Pusteblume International Preschool provides children with a fun and community-oriented multicultural environment. Our preschool program welcomes families with children from ages 2-5 of all international backgrounds who are interested in having their child learn German, Spanish, or both, in a language immersion classroom.

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250 Valentine’s Lane, Old Brookville 516-621-2420 greenvaleschool.org Green Vale is Long Island’s premier and largest coed, independent elementary school for pre-nursery-eighth grade. A program of exceptional academics and small class sizes is combined with emphasis on athletics, visual and performing arts, and character education at every grade level.

Wetherby–Pembridge School

Manhattan 225 Campus (Lower School) 225 E. 43rd St. 212-681-1877 Ardsley Campus (Lower School) 1 Cross Road, Ardsley 914-479-0722 Manhattan 815 Campus (Middle and Upper School) 815 Second Ave. 212-661-1916 en.lyceumkennedy.org/academics/ preschool Lyceum Kennedy’s Preschool program provides children with a unique bilingual experience. Our curriculum follows the complete program from the French Ministry of Education and the New York State Education Department. Through activities that challenge and captivate young minds, we instill a lifelong desire to learn.

Foreign Language

Julian Parham Santana, director of admissions 410 E. 92nd St. 212-831-3667 gillenbrewer.com julian@gillenbrewer.com Gillen Brewer School is a family-oriented, 12-month, early childhood and elementary program for children ages 2.8-10 years with language-based and nonverbal

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Main Building Third to 12th grades 433 W. End Ave. 212-497-6500 Robert L. Beir Lower School Building 2.8 years-second grade 160 W. 74th St. 212-497-6550 calhoun.org Calhoun’s preschool is a place where children take their first steps to becoming lifelong learners. Preschoolers at Calhoun learn to build, create, communicate, and collaborate as community members. Within the safety and structure of their school day, our youngest scholars receive a strong foundation for their future academic pursuits.

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973-845-9260 campuskids.com Call or email to schedule your family’s private tour of our camp. Offered Saturdays and Sundays, year-round.

Chelsea Piers Sports and Entertainment Complex Summer Camps

West 23rd Street and Hudson River Park Camps: 212-336-6846 chelseapiers.com/camp Join us on March 30 from 12:30–2pm for our Summer Camp Open House. Meet camp directors and coaches, tour the facilities, and participate in sports activities. RSVP at camps@chelseapiers.com.

China Institute Children’s Immersive Summer Day Camp (Ages 2-14) 40 Rector St., 2nd floor 212-744-8181 x110 chinainstitute.org emarks@chinainstitute.org Come to China Institute on March 10 for Summer Camp Open House at 11am and Music at China Institute launching event at 12pm. Demo music classes start at 2pm.

Downtown Day Camp

120 Warren St. 212-766-1104 x1250 downtowndaycamps.com camp@manhattanyouth.org Book a tour of our private Tribeca facilities which include a 75-foot pool, outdoor ball fields, arts and dance studios, and gyms. Email camp@manhattanyouth.org, call 212-766-1104 x1250, or visit downtowndaycamp.com.

Future Stars Summer Camps - Purchase College

735 Anderson Hill Road, Purchase 914-273-8500 fscamps.com Tours of our state-of-the-art facilities available now. Call or email Kirsten (914-273-8500 or ks@fscamps.com). At Future Stars you can choose and combine weeks from our 23 different sports and specialty programs.

Gillen Brewer School

Julian Parham Santana, director of admissions 410 E. 92nd St. 212-831-3667 gillenbrewer.com/admissions/open-houses julian@gillenbrewer.com Open houses begin at 9am and will take place on Thursday, March 7, Thursday, April 11, and Thursday, May 16.

The Green Vale School

250 Valentine’s Lane, Old Brookville 516-621-2420 greenvaleschool.org Join us for an open house March 13 or April 11 at 9am. Visit greenvaleschool.org to RSVP or schedule an informational tour at your convenience.

Henry Street Settlement-Camp Henry

301 Henry St. 212-254-3100 x262 henrystreet.org/camp jpena1@henrystreet.org Join us for an open house on Tuesday, April 16 at 5:30pm and Tuesday, May 14 at 5:30pm.

The Ideal School of Manhattan

Upper West Side 212-769-1699 theidealschool.org dbyrnes@idealschool.org Lower School Open House: grades kindergar-

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ten-fifth, Wednesday, April 10 at 9am 314 W. 91st St., Upper School Open House: grades sixth to 12th, Wednesday, April 17 at 9am, 270 W. 89th St. RSVP to admissions@theidealschool.org.

Oasis Summer Day Camps in Manhattan

Oasis in Central Park 795 Columbus Ave. 646-698-1800 oasischildren.com Join us for an open house for Oasis in Central Park at The Basis Independent School on March 5, April 9, or May 14 from 6:15-8:15pm, info sessions from 6:30-8pm. RSVP oasischildren.com/general/ events/.

Oasis Summer Day Camps in Manhattan

Oasis in Downtown-P.S. 110 285 Delancey St. 649-519-5058 oasischildren.com Join us for an open house for Oasis Downtown at P.S. 110 on March 19, April 11, April 18, May 9, and May 23 from 6:30-8pm. RSVP oasischildren. com/general/events/.

The Portfolio School

27 N. Moore St. 212-226-8252 portfolio-school.com admissions@portfolio-school.com Meet the Portfolio School team and learn how we create a hands-on, personalized approach that allows our students to progress at their own pace, March 7.

Tabor Summer Camp-Summer by the Sea

66 Spring St., Marion, MA 508-291-8342 taboracademy.org/page/summer Tabor Summer Camp invites you to join us at one of our scheduled information sessions this spring! Dates and times are posted at taborsummer.org/ visit-tabor-summer-camp.

YMCA Summer Camps

ymcanyc.org/camp rho@ymcanyc.org Visit any of our 22 branches to learn more about our fantastic summer day camp and sleepaway camp programs. Transportation service available from NYC to sleepaway camp.

raising kids ad index NYMetroParents.com features more than 20,000 businesses serving the NY metropolitan area! acrobatics / gymnastics

child care / day care

fitness

Jodi’s Gym.................................................................................25

92nd St. Y .................................................................................13

Little Gym ...................................................................................7

Green Vale School ....................................................................11

Sportime ...................................................................................19

Mommybites..............................................................................43

birthday / party services

music

92nd St. Y .................................................................................13

classes

Breakaway Hoops ....................................................................20

92nd St. Y .................................................................................13

Bricks 4 Kidz - NYC...................................................................25

Asphalt Green .............................................................................2

Jodi’s Gym ................................................................................25

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

Little Gym ...................................................................................7

BlueStamp Engineering ............................................................20

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

Sportime ...................................................................................19

camps 92nd St. Y .................................................................................13 Asphalt Green .............................................................................2 Atlantic Acting School .................................................................5 BlueStamp Engineering ............................................................20 Bold Arts ...................................................................................25 Breakaway Hoops ....................................................................20 Bricks 4 Kidz - NYC...................................................................25 Broadway Dance Center ..........................................................56 Calhoun School ........................................................................41 Camp Huntington ......................................................................21 Campus Kids Summer Camp ...................................................19 Chelsea Piers ...........................................................................55 China Institute ...........................................................................25

Henry Street Settlement/Camp Henry ......................................23

performing arts / acting

Bold Arts ...................................................................................25

Broadway Dance Center ..........................................................56

Bricks 4 Kidz - NYC...................................................................25

Galli Theater..............................................................................45

Broadway Dance Center ..........................................................56

Harlem School of the Arts .........................................................21

Chelsea Piers ...........................................................................55

Henry Street Settlement/Camp Henry ......................................23

China Institute ...........................................................................25

Kids ‘N Comedy ........................................................................17

Collina Italiana...........................................................................21

Play On! Studios .......................................................................25

Ideal School (The) ......................................................................9

The New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts .........................15

Kate Tempesta’s Urban Golf Academy .....................................20 Play On! Studios .......................................................................25 Sportime ...................................................................................19 The New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts .........................15 YMCA of Greater New York ......................................................21

dance

religious 92nd St. Y .................................................................................13

special events Young Child Expo .....................................................................45

Harlem School of the Arts .........................................................21

special needs

Collina Italiana...........................................................................21

developmental

Downtown Day Camps - Manhattan Youth ...............................15

China Institute ...........................................................................25

Future Stars ..............................................................................22

Camp Huntington ......................................................................21 Young Child Expo .....................................................................45

Gifted Kids Inc./Eye Level Learning Centers ......................19, 41

education

Harlem School of the Arts .........................................................21

92nd St. Y .................................................................................13

Henry Street Settlement/Camp Henry ......................................23

BlueStamp Engineering ............................................................20

Jodi’s Gym ................................................................................25

Calhoun School ........................................................................41

Breakaway Hoops ....................................................................20

Kate Tempesta’s Urban Golf Academy .....................................20

Gifted Kids Inc./Eye Level Learning Centers ......................19, 41

Chelsea Piers ...........................................................................55

Kids ‘N Comedy ........................................................................17

Green Vale School ....................................................................11

Downtown Day Camps - Manhattan Youth ...............................15

Little Gym ...................................................................................7

Hebrew Public Charter Schools ................................................41

Future Stars ..............................................................................22

Modeling Camp ........................................................................25

Ideal School (The) ......................................................................9

Kate Tempesta’s Urban Golf Academy .....................................20

MWS Student Camps ...............................................................22

International Academy of New York ..........................................10

Sportime ...................................................................................19

Oasis Children Services .............................................................3

Lyceum Kennedy.......................................................................13

Play On! Studios .......................................................................25

Tabor Academy Camp...............................................................20

MWS Student Camps ...............................................................22

Portfolio School (The) ...............................................................23

Pusteblume International School...............................................26

Sportime ...................................................................................19

Tabor Academy Camp...............................................................20

Wetherby-Pembridge School ......................................................9

The New York Conservatory for Dramatic Arts .........................15

sports Asphalt Green .............................................................................2

YMCA of Greater New York ......................................................21

theater Galli Theater..............................................................................45 Kids ‘N Comedy ........................................................................17

Whale Camp .............................................................................23

family entertainment / events / outings

Wildlife Conservation Society ...................................................26

Galli Theater..............................................................................45

tutors

YMCA of Greater New York ......................................................21

Wildlife Conservation Society ...................................................26

Gifted Kids Inc./Eye Level Learning Centers ......................19, 41

BigAppleParent 53

things to do

diy corner

Reversible Cape

Is your little one obsessed with Superman? Are you raising the next Wonder Woman? We’ve got just the craft for you! Kids can design their ideal costumes, perfect for a day of dramatic play. Can’t decide on just one design? Well, like any good hero disguise, this cape has two sides. Inspire creativity, choose a super hero identity, and spend a day saving the day! This super-easy cape features star and lightning bolt emblems, but you could make it to resemble your favorite superheroes or villains, or create two new characters with personalized emblems featuring your initials. The project requires a sewing machine— you could make it without one but it will take you a while to stitch around the edges! You will need • 1-yard square each of green and blue cotton • 4-inch square each of red and black cotton • 8-inch square of yellow cotton • Scissors

• Sewing needle and pins • 15-by-35-inch piece of fusible webbing • Sewing machine and matching thread • 1½-by ½-inch piece of Velcro or hook-and-loop tape • Iron and ironing board

Instructions 1. Print the cape template and cut it out (find it at nymetroparents.com/cape). Fold your green fabric in half and pin the template on top. Cut out one cape then repeat with the blue fabric. Use a small plate (about 8 inches) to draw and cut out a circle from yellow and black cotton. If you want to use the emblems featured here, cut out a yellow lightning bolt and a red star shape—draw your own or use a template and increase the size. Also cut the circles, lightning, and star shapes out of fusible webbing. 2. Iron the fusible webbing onto the back of each shape. Line up the yellow circle centrally on the front of the blue cape 8 inches from the neckline. Iron in place, and then iron the star on top of the center of the yellow circle. Repeat with the green cape, the black circle, and the lightning bolt. 3. Pin the two capes right sides together. Machine sew around the edge with a ½-inch seam allowance. Leave a 6-inch gap along the bottom to allow you to turn the cape right sides out. Trim the edges around the neckline of the cape then make snips in the seam allowance around the curved edges, about 1 inch apart. This will prevent puckering. 4. Turn the cape right sides out and push out all the corners and neckline. Press the cape and sew the turning gap closed by hand. 5. Pin and sew one piece of the Velcro onto the end of the neckline on the blue fabric. Sew the other piece on the green fabric (at the other side) so that the two pieces line up when the neckline is joined. Extract reprinted here with permission from GMC Publications, The Superhero Craft Book by Laura Minter and Tia Williams, RRP $9.95.

THE PERFECT CAMP TO FIT YOUR SUMMER PLANS Choose your weeks and your sport; there’s a camp for every athlete and every schedule. Sports Academy • Gymnastics • Ninja Parkour Golf • Basketball • Elite Soccer • Ice Hockey Ice Skating • Urban Adventure for Teens

JUNE 17 - AUGUST 30, 2019 Hot Lunch Provided Transportation Available

EARLY BIRDS: Register by May 17 + Save!

chelseapiers.com/camps

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Dance Camps are back at Broadway Dance Center Children & Teens! Join us for another great spring and summer of dance, games, craf t s, making new friends, and creating las ting memories. All levels welcome! SPRI NG: Two weeks to choose from (Mon-Fri) SUMM ER: Ten weeks to choose from (Mon-Fri)

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